I'm using a 4231 with 2 CMs and I've been struggling. My football IQ is low, so I'm not a hundred percent if I'm using the tactic right. My tactic is very similar to yalls suggestions, but I'm having some problems.
My instructions is midblock, standard, line, more direct passing and slightly higher tempo. Counter and distribute quickly. I'm having 20-30% and my "World Class" striker is having player ratings of 6.4. I do know I need better midfielders to play DLP/S and I want to try playing CM/S - BWM/D and I'm interested in trying out that CM-S x 2 that mibsweden recommended, but I was curious if maybe my roles needed revision. I'm also wondering if I could get another attacking role. I want my IF/S and AM/S to be able to help my AF score. My passing network is also a mess lol, if that matters.
AF/A
IW/A AM/S IF/S
DLP/S BWM/D
WB/S CD/D BPD/D WB/S
G/D
I use positive mentality, I'll try your suggestions. I should've thought of cautious mentality lol. I look at it as defensive mentality but after reading the first sentence of the description about losing the possession battle, I think this will help alot. Thanks!