Under the guidance of Lattek, Alexanko transformed into an offensive sweeper who often ventured into the midfield spaces, carrying the ball from the defence to initiate the offensive transition or to provide a line-breaking pass to the attackers.

Unlike the defenders of that time, who would depend on their physical attributes to prevent the opposition from scoring, Alexanko exhibited a distinct style, elegance in his game. He was brilliant with the ball on his feet and his poised nature in progressing the ball, coupled with accurate passes cemented his role in Lattek’s new system.

Alexanko preferred smart positioning and precise passes over leg-breaking tackles. It was his composure that often helped his partner Migueli to play his tough game. This is a strategy widely deployed today, by teams like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and even Manchester United.

He was tasked with the ball progression from the defence to circulate the ball around Schuster and Simonsen. At times, he would play one-two passes with the defensive midfielders to move forward, occasionally advancing to the opposition half to provide an assist or even scoring the goal. Although he was solid in defence, Migueli’s presence in the pitch often covered the menace created by him while losing the possession or moving ahead.