DELL legend David Armstrong believes the changes implemented at Saints by Mark Wotte have made the team “efficient and effective.”
Since taking over from fellow Dutchman Jan Poortvliet as head coach in January, Wotte has led a revival in the club’s fortunes.
Tuesday’s 3-0 win at Ipswich marked the first time in two years they won three league games in a row.
Saints will now travel to Birmingham on Saturday hoping to win four on the trot for the first time since 2006.
The last occasion that happened was in November/December of that year, when George Burley’s men recorded victories against Leeds, Luton, Birmingham and Hull.
Wotte has overseen an improvement in Saints’ form after making some notable changes. Most obvious is the introduction of two men in attack, with Jason Euell partnering Marek Saganowski.
As promised when he took over, there has been an increased role for the squad’s experienced pros.
The midfield has performed well since shifting to a diamond formation in recent weeks.
Wotte has also enjoyed a slice of good fortune, with a rejuvenated Saganowski returning from a loan spell at Aalborg and the signing of defender Jan-Paul Saeijs just before he became head coach.
Dell legend Armstrong, who made more than 200 appearances for the club in the 1980s, has watched Wotte’s impact with interest as a summariser on Saints’ matches for Radio Hampshire.
“The main difference is obviously playing two men up front, where prior to that it was just one and they were very isolated,” he said.
“They are playing very much more direct now, in the sense that whenever anyone gets the ball the first thought is to try and hit the front men.
“Before, it was good passing and pretty stuff, but without being efficient and effective.
“Now they are efficient and effective.”
Armstrong added: “Players like David McGoldrick, Simon Gillett, Lloyd James and Andrew Surman know full well what the first thought is now for anyone that gets the ball.
“And they know they’ve got to try and get up and support the front two.
“That should have been how they played in the first place.
“It’s taken them three-and-a-half seasons to realise that’s the way to win in this league, but they’re doing it now.”
For full story and part one of an exclusive Mark Wotte interview, don't miss today's Daily Echo.
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