Undervalued Premier League Talents: Teemu Pukki

Although Teemu Pukki has succumbed to relegation for the second time with Norwich City, he remains one of the most fascinating and complete centre-forwards on the planet. Full of exceptional movement, intelligent pressing, and a natural eye for goal, Pukki scored 11 times in both of his two Premier League campaigns for the worst team in the league. Now at the age of 32, Teemu Pukki is unlikely to return to the Premier League. That said, his price tag according to Transfermarkt sits at just €5 million, which would be an absolute steal for a player who's hit double figures in both of his Premier League seasons. With that, we discuss and analyze the remarkabilities of Teemu Pukki, and the potential suitors for the Finnish forward if he were to seek pastures new this summer.

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How Southampton’s attacking transitions vary between phases of the game

After a slow start to the season, Southampton are one of the in-form Premier League teams at the moment. Fielding a 4-2-2-2 on paper, the Saints recently picked up unexpected points against some of the league's biggest hitters - Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, and Manchester United. Results in tow, Southampton’s implementation of quick and progressive attacking transitions have them climbing the league table, playing with a distinct style and groove.

How Southampton used positional automatisms to gain advantages v. Man United

Ralph Hasenhuttl's Southampton used intelligent positional patterns (or automatisms) to gain crucial advantages against United, and come out with a massive away draw. Particularly vital on the day to finding space and gaining tactical victories were Oriol Romeu and Mohamed Elyounoussi, who took on various roles over the course of the match away from their 'normal' position.

The Longball Preview Show – Stevie G’s Coming Home!

In this jam-packed episode, John and Declan talk about whether Arteta and Hasenhuttl should freshen up their job applications, if a Chelsea collapse is imminent, and how the Hammers will cope with only 2 healthy centre-backs. The boys then get into a debate about just how much a chance Villa have in their visit to the Merseyside, singing the praises of Steven Gerrard and his start to life at his new club. Submit any questions for the show to themastermindsite.com/contact.

The Longball – Premier League Preview Show – Southampton

On this episode, John and Declan are joined by Southampton journalist Marc Walker as they head over to St. Mary's! The panel discuss the chaotic tactics of Ralph Hasenhuttl, the losses at fullback and subsequent replacements, and the quality of Che Adams.

Leicester, Leipzig and Southampton – Finding the best fit for Matheus Pereira

This past weekend, West Bromwich Albion were relegated from England's top flight. The team lacked the quality to survive, and even despite Sam Allardyce turning them into a well-functioning team, they couldn't make up the necessary ground to stay in the division. But if there was one shining light in the otherwise unremarkable season for the Baggies, it would have to be their star attacking midfielder - Matheus Pereira.

Pressing from the Front – Tactical Trends in 2020

One of the most consistent tactics of the past decade has been the reliance on pressing from the front from some of the biggest clubs in the world. It would be foolish to say that pressing did not exist until the 2010s. What is perhaps more true is just how systematic pressing has become in recent years. In 2020, pressing evolved in unique ways, with many teams bringing their own unique approach to the tactical trend. Here are some of the trends seen in 2020 with regards to pressing from the front.

Ralph Hasenhuttl – Southampton – Tactical Analysis

When Ralph Hasenhuttl's Southampton lost 9-0 to Leicester City in October 2019, many thought the Austrian's time at St. Mary's was going to be short lived. Since then however, Hasenhuttl has proven himself more than capable of leading his team to better times, and currently has his team sitting 5th place in the Premier League table. Southampton under Hasenhuttl play in a clearly defined, structured, high pressing 4-2-2-2 system. Every single player fits into the style of play and the manager has clear expectations for how he wants his team to play and the values he wants to impose on his players. As we head into Matchday 12, here is our Tactical Analysis of Ralph Hasenhuttl's Southampton in 2020-21.

Tottenham Hotspur – Premier League 2020-21 – Transfer Market Analysis

After a disappointing start to the 2019-20 campaign, long-time managerial legend Jose Mourinho came into Tottenham Hotspur to solve all the problems they had under Mauricio Pochettino (which were actually few and far between before 2019-20). Now after half a season in charge, Mourinho will be hoping to instill his philosophies on the team to … Continue reading Tottenham Hotspur – Premier League 2020-21 – Transfer Market Analysis

2017-18 Premier League Team Guide: Southampton

The Mastermind brings you an exclusive guide to every single Premier League team going into the highly anticipated 2017-18 season. From lineups, to transfers to the wackiest of predictions, The Mastermind has you covered. Here is your guide to a club with a brand new manager but a very familiar look, Southamtpon FC.  SOUTHAMPTON  INTRODUCTION  … Continue reading 2017-18 Premier League Team Guide: Southampton

West Ham United Knocked Out Of Europa League, Did They Dodge A Bullet?

On Thursday, August 25th, 2016, all eyes were not on West Ham. Cristiano Ronaldo had just won the UEFA Best Player in Europe Award, Manchester City signed Barcelona goalkeeper Claudio Bravo and the Champions League draw took place. But eyes certainly should have been on the Hammers. They had played a fantastic season in 2015-16 to … Continue reading West Ham United Knocked Out Of Europa League, Did They Dodge A Bullet?

2016-17 Barclays Premier League Team by Team Guide and Predictions

The 2016-17 Premier League season is about to return. Are you ready? Not without The Mastermind's 2016-17 Barclays Premier League Team by Team Guide and Predictions you aren't. With loads of new managers and a heap of exciting new players, an exhilarating season is on it's way. Here is the guide to every single team … Continue reading 2016-17 Barclays Premier League Team by Team Guide and Predictions