The mind games have started from Martin O'Neill. Poland manager Adam Nawalka is expecting the 4-4-2 formation that has served Ireland for so long, but there are indictations from training that O'Neill is considering a change.
O'Neill had the team set up playing the 3-5-2 formation in training, with Seamus Coleman and Robbie Brady used as the wingbacks. The training match was a probables vs possibles, although the size of the squad means it was a 13 v 13 game. Also on the probables was Shay Given in goal, with Aiden McGeady occupying a central spot.
Later on, O'Neill played down the notion that a change was coming while he tried to keep his cards close to his chest.
Some players here play that system at club level. It’s something that they’re used to. Some players, they would have to adapt.
The 3-5-2 formation is an intriguing prospect, that might unleash the best out of the likes of Seamus Coleman and Robbie Brady, while a playmaker in the mould of Wes Hoolahan, Artur or McGeady could prosper in a free role behind two strikers.
The Poland manager hasn't fallen for any mind games. Nawalka has said he's not expecting any formational change from Ireland when things kick off tomorrow:
We’re ready for any formation, we’re not fixed on any one thing but we do expect them to play 4-4-2 because that’s the way they have played in the past. It suits their style and the players they have; it is the formation that has produced good results for them in the past.
