Any manager’s first-ever job can allow them to put down a marker for their tactical philosophy and how successful they may be in the future.
After Paul Tisdales sacking in early November, Russell Martin stepped up from being a player—retiring in the process—to take the reins and attempt to guide MK Dons away from the relegation zone.
Whilst not doing an unbelievable job, Martin has still had some impressive results.
The highlights are certainly a 1-0 win over Oxford United at Stadium MK and solid draws away at high-flyers Rotherham United and Coventry City, respectively.
Furthermore, the Scot has implemented an attractive playing style insistent on keeping the ball on the ground and progressing the ball through the thirds calmly and neatly.
This tactical analysis will look at how Martin has changed MK Dons’ fortunes in League One and conduct analysis on his tactics.
Russell Martin Style Of Play & Line-up
Martin has predominantly played a diamond in his reign.
This, therefore, means his team is quite reliant on the full-backs: Dean Lewington and Callum Brittain.
Width is an essential offensive principle that must be present to optimise the attacking phase of play.
Otherwise, with a 4-1-2-1-2 formation, ball circulation may become too centralised.
It should be said that Martin gives his players the freedom to move and drift from their designated area on the pitch.
Teams rotate to try to discombobulate the opponents defensive shape while still maintaining balance and good spacing.
Martin’s possession-based style can be seen by looking at the statistics.
MK Dons have the second most short passes per game with 383, just above league-leaders Coventry City.
Despite their lowly position in the table, the Dons average the fourth-highest possession percentage—52.6%.
They also stand third for pass success percentage, registering 76.1%.
Striker Rhys Healey, in particular, has been a standout performer and leading light.
Starting just 15 games with four substitute appearances, the 25-year-old has 11 goals and two assists.
Influence of Jordan Houghton in the build-up phase
Whilst Healey may get the headlines for his goalscoring exploits, it can be argued Jordan Houghton plays just as an essential role in Martin’s system.
Sitting at the base of the diamond, the ex-Chelsea youngster has a dual role.
He is the deepest protector of the defensive, but his importance to the MK Dons build-up is arguably greater.
When in possession, Martin usually instructs Houghton to fall back into the defensive line to form an initial three.
In the majority of cases, this gives them numerical superiority.
It is also hel
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