When Union St Gilloise announced that German head coach Alexander Blessin would be leading the side this season, there was a mixed response. Half were hoping they would see the Oostende version of Blessin, while others were predicting that he would struggle like he had in Genoa. 10 games into the season, Blessin’s Union are top of the league and have won their previous four league games.
Union have scored well, with 22 goals putting them second overall in terms of goals scored. Their 12 conceded is higher than the rest of the top six, but Blessin’s Oostende sides were not known for being overly stout defensively. Blessin has changed the side in terms of formation this season. Gone is the 3-5-2, with a 3-4-2-1 used more often. This has allowed the likes of Cameron Puertas to push further forward, something that he has taken full advantage of. So far the creative Swiss has provided five assists, a team high.
Yet while the 3-4-2-1 is preferred, Blessin has been tactically flexible. Sometimes he will revert to the 3-5-2 and partner Gustaf Nilsson with Mohamed Amoura. Nilsson has five goals while Amoura has four. The form of these two have meant that the injury to Dennis Eckert has been managed well by Blessin and the squad. The 26-year-old was on fire to start the season, with five goals to his name before picking up an injury in September.
Blessin and Union have a golden chance to grab a fifth win in a row when they face Eupen. The Pandas are on their own streak, but it is a losing one. The side have lost five in a row and are sliding down the table.
GBeNeFNÂ |Â Ben Jackson
