Master the Target Forward role in Football Manager with this guide on key attributes, tactics, and strategies to make your striker unstoppable.
Mastering the Target Forward Role in Football Manager: A Complete Guide to
Striker Domination
The Target Forward is one of the most underrated roles in Football Manager. While its effectiveness has varied across different versions of the game, one thing remains constant: the physical dominance of the Target Forward makes him a nightmare for opposition defenders. This guide will break down what makes the role so successful, how to make the most of your striker, and the best tactics to unleash your Target Forward’s potential.
The Role of a Target Forward in Football Manager
To start, here’s how Sports Interactive describes the Target Forward role:
"A Target Forward is a player who uses his physicality to hold up the ball and bring teammates into play. He is most effective in situations where aerial duels and strength are key."
While this is an accurate overview, it’s not the whole story. In my experience, what truly separates a good Target Forward from the rest is strength. Even if your forward lacks top-tier heading or jumping reach, he can still succeed by muscling through defenders and creating space for himself and his teammates.
Think of players like Andy Carroll, who thrives in a direct style with long balls played to his head, or Olivier Giroud, a perfect example of a possession-based Target Forward who acts as the focal point for forward passes. Whether your tactic is based on direct play or patient build-up, having a striker who can withstand the physical battle and hold up the ball can change your game.
Key Attributes for a Successful Target Forward
- Strength: Crucial for winning physical battles.
- Heading & Jumping Reach: Essential for aerial dominance, especially in direct play.
- Teamwork & Passing: Necessary for holding up the ball and linking up with teammates.
- Composure: To handle pressure and convert chances when they arise.
Best Tactics for a Target Forward in FM
The Target Forward role is best used as part of a partnership, whether it’s with a second striker or an attacking midfielder. The key is to ensure your striker has teammates nearby to support him, especially after winning aerial duels or holding up the ball.
1. Formations for a Target Forward
Here are some effective formations to consider:
- 4-4-2: Partner your Target Forward with a more agile striker like a Poacher or an Advanced Forward.
- 4-2-3-1: Use an AMC directly behind your Target Forward to receive passes and push forward.
- 3-5-2: This works well if your second striker can run into spaces created by the Target Forward.
2. High-Pressing System
A high-pressing tactic is a perfect match for your Target Forward. His physical presence can be crucial when applying pressure high up the pitch, forcing defenders to play quickly and make mistakes. However, make sure your team supports him with an aggressive press to mop up the second balls after he challenges defenders.
3. Crossing Strategy
To get the best out of a Target Forward, you need to cross effectively. In my experience, floated crosses are the most effective, as they give your striker time to position himself and use his aerial prowess. In contrast, low crosses may not suit the slower, stronger type of Target Forward who thrives in battles rather than quick movements.
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Here’s a breakdown of how you can set up a team to fully utilize a Target Forward:
With this setup, your Target Forward will not only bring others into play but also dominate in the final third by using his physicality and aerial ability.
If you’re looking for inspiration from real-life football, here are some great examples of modern Target Forwards:
By watching these players, you can gain a deeper understanding of how the Target Forward role works, and how it can be adapted into different tactical systems.
Although the Target Forward role has become less fashionable in recent years, a good Target Forward remains a powerful weapon in Football Manager. By using his physical attributes, aerial dominance, and link-up play, you can create numerous opportunities for your team.
Whether you're looking to play a direct or possession-based game, mastering the Target Forward role will give you a new tactical edge and unlock your striker’s full potential. So, get out there, set up your team, and watch your striker dominate the opposition!
The Perfect Tactical Setup for a Target Forward
Here’s a breakdown of how you can set up a team to fully utilize a Target Forward:
- Formation: 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1 (with an AMC or Inside Forward close to the Target Forward).
- Tactical Style: Direct Counter-Attack or Control Possession.
-
Instructions:
- Target Forward (Support or Attack)
- Wingers: Cross from Deep
- Fullbacks: Overlap, Cross Aim Target Man
- Team Mentality: Positive or Balanced
- Pressing: More Urgent
- Pass into Space: On
- Crosses: Floated
With this setup, your Target Forward will not only bring others into play but also dominate in the final third by using his physicality and aerial ability.
Real-Life Examples of Target Forwards
If you’re looking for inspiration from real-life football, here are some great examples of modern Target Forwards:
- Olivier Giroud: A master of holding up the ball in a possession-based system.
- Romelu Lukaku: Strong in aerial battles and brilliant at linking play.
- Sebastián Haller: Known for his physicality and ability to battle defenders in the air.
By watching these players, you can gain a deeper understanding of how the Target Forward role works, and how it can be adapted into different tactical systems.
Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Target Forward's Potential
- Press as a Team: Make sure the rest of your team engages
the opposition high up the pitch. Your
Target Forward will be battling for the ball, and your
other players need to be close to capitalize on his efforts.
- Pair with a Poacher or Inside Forward: The key to
unlocking a Target Forward’s full potential is pairing
him with someone who can run into the space he creates, like a
Poacher or Inside Forward.
- Use Opposition Instructions: Instruct your players to
tightly mark the opposing centre-backs. This will force the defender to
play long balls, giving your Target Forward the chance to
win aerial duels.
Final Thoughts
Although the Target Forward role has become less fashionable in recent years, a good Target Forward remains a powerful weapon in Football Manager. By using his physical attributes, aerial dominance, and link-up play, you can create numerous opportunities for your team.
Whether you're looking to play a direct or possession-based game, mastering the Target Forward role will give you a new tactical edge and unlock your striker’s full potential. So, get out there, set up your team, and watch your striker dominate the opposition!
