Charlie Davies made the bench for Sochaux’s 1-1 draw with Bordeaux, and though he didn’t play, his appearance was a big step in his recovery.
It seems that it’s now a matter of when Davies returns, not if. Of course, he still has to prove that he’s the same player as before his October 2009 car accident. If Davies has retained his speed, he’ll fit well into Sochaux’s formation.
Sochaux's 4-4-2
Their 4-4-2 is similar to Bob Bradley’s: the two strikers move wide more often than they drop into the middle. Their width allows the wingers space to move inside. In the second half of today’s match, Sochaux also used a 4-4-1-1 (Maiga was the deeper forward). While Davies isn’t a perfect fit for either striker position in the 4-4-1-1, he could do a decent job up top. The target forward in the 4-4-1-1 can hold up the ball using his strength, or, if he’s lightning quick, he can be used to stretch the center backs. Davies would obviously fit into the latter role.
But, again, that’s assuming he still has his blistering speed. Hopefully we’ll find out as the Ligue 1 season progresses.
Glad to see Charlie’s almost back.