Those stats does not state that he played further up the pitch as a target man. It only states he scored 1 goals in 5 years as a substitute. Most of Fellaini goals which is somewhere around 12 at United was mostly scored when he was pushed further up the pitch as a target man. When Fellaini is utilized this way as seen in the Arsenal game, he becomes more effective in his output. However, most of the time he is being asked to play as a defensive box to box midfielder where he does not become an effective plan B. It was not by coincidence that Mourinho put Fellaini on against Arsenal and he scored. It was because Mourinho understand Fellaini effectiveness in that role and also, great tactical awareness. This is one element that separate great managers from poor ones, and I do not expect most fans to understand this.
Also fyi, Fellaini may not as started many game as a target man, but players role can change throughout the game.
That is true. Madrid, Liverpool, Manchester City, and most top clubs really just try and perfect their plan A. However, having a player who can cause havoc from the bench and unsettle opposition defenders is strategically not a bad idea. I was against Fellaini signing from the start, but since he is here, we might aswell find a way to utilize him effectively.
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