Problem sadly is with most english players......systems are nothing more than basic understanding of tactics and being aware of your surroundings. Any player worth his salt can slot into any system but it does tend to be the more professional, non drinking, non partying, astute foreigners. look how lampard and gerrard (top english midfielders - so im told haha) could never play together, look how they struggle when AVB and now rodgers tinker with formations. If they cant do it then what chance every other english player. Maybe a bit harsh but its what i see....micah richards could be a top top player but his football brain isnt great and positioning is an issue for him even in a rigid 4-4-2. Mancini is right as is AVB and was rafa benitez.....they have a football brain that our lot dont. I watched brighton leeds the other night....poyet was constantly pointing directing and organising his team whilst warnock either stood there motionless not got a clue what to change or ranted like an imbecile. british managers moan that they dont get a chance but they are inferior to the likes of zola and poyet and even di canio already. they are all tactically aware who wont be afraid to take a forward off when in search of a goal and re-organise the midfield. When brits need a goal we usually just chuck on an extra forward. ...enough said.