'3-5-2 formation gives us fluidity'
Mike Marsh has explained how Liverpool's recent switch to a 3-5-2 formation means the side now have an extra dimension they can turn to in order to break down opponents.
The first-team coach insists some players have had to adjust their game to adapt to the new style; however, in general, the transition has been a smooth one.
The tactic was used in consecutive Barclays Premier League wins over Sunderland and Crystal Palace after making its first appearance in the Capital One Cup defeat against Manchester United.
"We have had to adapt. It's not natural to certain players on the pitch, but it's not massively different from where we are," Marsh told Liverpoolfc.com.
"It's a 3-5-2 when we start, but it's fluid throughout the game. A lot of the stuff that we do in the game are things that we work on anyway, so training hasn't been radically different.
"It's an opportunity to try something different. You need different formations to play against different opposition. We've played in that formation now on a couple of occasions, which shows that we can do it and so if we need to flip to it we can do it in the game."
Marsh insists the staff at Melwood are not surprised by the Reds' strong start to the season - after seven games, Liverpool sit joint-top of the league alongside Arsenal.
And the 44-year-old believes the side are currently feeling the benefits of arduous pre-season preparations which included an early return to action.
"We all hoped that we were going to get off to a good start, which I think we have done," said Marsh.
"We're all pleased with how we've done so far. But I think we're still par for the course of where we wanted to be points-wise.
"The success had just been down to hard work form the players and the staff. We were back early in July and we worked ever so well, so I think the players are reaping the rewards now.
"I think we can still work on everything. The game is evolving all the time. We're here at Melwood and working very hard. If we continue to put the same effort in after the international break, I'm sure we'll continue to get the results."