JT Leicester City Winning 4231

JT-4231 – Tactic Overview

The JT-4231 is a high-tempo, Gegenpress-based 4-2-3-1 system that shifts shape dynamically between phases of play. In possession it uses two defensive midfielders for stability and buildup, while out of possession it drops to a single pivot to maximise pressing intensity. The system is unusual but extremely effective, winning the Championship and currently performing at the top end of the Premier League.

FORMATION & SHAPE

Base Shape:
4-2-3-1 with asymmetric responsibilities

In Possession:
• Two DMs (DM + DLP) operate as the pivot
• Wingers drop deeper into wide-midfield zones
• IF on one flank attacks the inside channel
• Short passing and very high tempo
• Attacking transitions through the middle and half-spaces

Out of Possession:
• Single DM acts as the screening pivot
• Wingers push higher into the press
• Team forms a compact, aggressive 4-1-4-1 shape when pressing

Mentality:
• Standard for most matches
• Positive/Attacking vs lower-reputation teams to force dominance

PLAYER ROLES

Defence:
• GK – Sweeper/keeper style depending on phase
• BCB x2 – Provide composure and passing quality from the back
• FB (L) – Provides width in buildup
• WB (R) – Supports progression and overlaps the IF lane

Midfield:
• DM – Central screen out of possession, recycling possession when settled
• DLP – Main distributor, key to short-passing rhythm
• AM/FR – Connects midfield to attack, presses high, supports striker

Wide Players:
• W/WMF (L) – Tracks back into wide-mid zone, supports buildup
• IF (R) – Attacks inside channel, combines with CF and CM
Both wide players are required to contribute defensively and help overload midfield.

Striker:
• CF – Simple, reliable focal point. Holds up play, presses, links attacks.

IN POSSESSION

• Shorter passing
• Much higher tempo
• Standard width
• More expressive creative freedom
• Low crosses, discouraged long shots
• Build through both flanks, using pivots for stability
• Attacking transitions trigger immediate counter-attacks

OUT OF POSSESSION

• Classic Gegenpress structure
• High pressing triggers
• One-DM defensive screen
• Compact shape to force turnovers
• Quick breaks upon regaining possession

TRANSITIONS

• Counter-attack enabled
• Keeper distributes to centre-backs or mixed short options
• Team switches quickly between 2-DM buildup and 1-DM pressing shape

SUMMARY

The JT-4231 is built around a unique double-DM possession structure, high-tempo circulation, and wide players who defend as wide midfielders. It creates control in buildup, aggression out of possession, and consistent overloads in the half-spaces. With its flexible mentality approach, the tactic has already proven capable of winning the Championship and competing at the top of the Premier League.