Ray Houghton does not think it is too late for Ireland to add the 3-5-2 formation to our armoury ahead of Euro 2016.
With attacking wing-backs like Seamus Coleman and Robbie Brady (who is traditionally a winger but has been occasionally used at left-back by Martin O'Neill) available, Ireland legend Houghton thinks it is workable to add that system in alongside the 4-4-2, 4-5-1 and diamond formations we have used during the past two years.
"I think you can do that. If you've got quality players and intelligent footballers, it shouldn't be a problem for them. I think they've got wing-backs who love to get forward," he told Team 33 at this week's #PowerofGreen event at the Aviva Stadium.
"If you look at Seamus Coleman, he's probably as good as anyone going forward. I think his defending's very, very good so Seamus can fit into a formation of playing five - three centre-halves and wing-backs - or he could play as a four as a normal right back. That wouldn't be a problem for him.
"Robbie Brady, I think, is much better suited to a five. You take away that defensive situation for him and just let him get on with what he's good at into an attacking position. Martin will know better than I. Martin's been working with the players for the last 2-3 seasons, he knows what they're about. He knows their strengths, he knows their weaknesses and I'm sure he'll have in place the setup that he wants. Probably at this stage, he will have the XI he will want to play."
The full Euro 2016 chat with Ray will be broadcast on Team 33 next month as part of our pre-tournament coverage along with chats with Jason McAteer, Charlie O'Leary and Mick Byrne.
Irish football legends Jason McAteer and Ray Houghton were in Dublin today to share their #PowerOfGreen moments from their days in the green jersey. Joining them were former kit man for the Boys in Green, Charlie O'Leary and former Irish team physio, Mick Byrne.
They were speaking at the launch of SSE Airtricity's summer football campaign at Aviva Stadium. All customers who switch to SSE Airtricity will now receive the new official Ireland football jersey free, as well as 15% off their home energy.
The legends and special guests spoke about the power of the green jersey and the pride it evokes. They shared their favourite memories of wearing it, from McAteer's famous strike against Holland in '01, to Houghton putting the ball in the English net in '88 and breaking Italian hearts in '92.
With SSE AirtricityÕs Ireland jersey top offer, new memories will be made in 2016 that will last a lifetime. Fans can get theirs free by switching to SSE Airtricity today. For more information on how to switch, please visitwww.sseairtricity.com
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