Villa vs Pompey (Cup Tie)

Injuries:
18 CM Claudio Marchisio FG
11 CB Micheal Keane HG
20 CM Ruben Neves U21
25 RW Chiesa Enrico U21


…………………………………….Oblak………………….
……………….De Vrij………Godin……Chiellini……..
……………………….Kessie……Gagliardini………..
Griezmann………………Hamsik..…………Di Maria
………………………Belotti…………Higuain……………

Subs: Scuffet, Rugani, Pellegrini, Lallana, El Shaarawy, Zlatan, Mere

Cup game and a potential route back in to Europe, not sure how strong our opponent will line up so we’ve gone with pretty much our strongest side.

Controversial in some respects as we have no fullbacks/wingbacks, but we’re banking on a front-five being heavy handed and getting in amongst the goals.

We want to play a pro-active fast paced attacking game, no ball retention for retention’s sake, this get the ball down and shift from back to front in as little time as possible, turn Pompey’s defence and get in behind them.

Godin will be the man marker of their central striker, with De Vrij and Chiellini dealing with the wingers, However, we won’t go out wide them, they’ll stay on the 18 yard line, defend the edge of the box if the wingers try to come inside but allow them to have the ball out-wide outside the box, crosses into the box or lumps downfield are “bread and butter” for our back-three. In possession keep it simple, look for those long raking diagonals for our wingers to latch onto.

Kessie and Gagliardini will both sit today and hold the midfield, they’re not needed going forwards so they’re the ballast to the side, I want them harrying the ball carrier, where they work in this system is that with De Vrij and Chiellini holding the edge of the box, these two will drop back chasing the ball carrier, if it goes wide they will act as the full-back pressuring the ball, it’s a lung busting tactic but these two have great engines on them. They don’t have to make the tackle just pressure the ball and look to capitalise on possession turnover.

ADM & Griezmann, pure out and out wingers, with the freedom to switch wings and look to come inside, play their natural games and use their pace to exploit the gaps in Pompeys defence. Defensively I want them dropping no further than half-way, tracking the opposition full-back, if the oppo FB’s go past half way, let em go, we’ll burn them on the counter.

Hamsik is our #10 has the freedom to roam the pitch and dictate the tempo, as long as he continues to make those late surges into the box for any loose balls, as with our wingers I want him dropping no deeper than half-way. When Pompey have the ball in the first phase (from the keeper) I wan’t him on the DM….our wingers on the FB’s and our front two on the CB’s…the keeper will have no easy out and have to look to go long – but with Kessie and Gag’s both clearing 6ft we’d be comfortable of winning the aerial battle in midfield.

Whereas Higuain is a pure #9 Belotti is our #9.5..both have great goalscoring records but neither really lend themselves to build up play, However with what we have behind them, I’m happy for them both to play off the shoulder, would be a nightmare to defend against these two in unison, as the Cb’s would have to sit deeper and deeper to stop the run in from behind. This suits us nicely as our 3 AM’s will thrive with the extra space to run into. Defensively as I’ve already mentioned they take a CB each to cut any easy out balls.

Subs 65 mins.
Kessie and Gags off…..Pellegrini and Lallana on – just fresh legs


75 mins

Zlatan > Higuain

NEWCASTLE 4-3-3

Captain: Luis Suarez
Penalties: Luis Suarez
Corners: Miralem Pjanic
Freekicks: Miralem Pjanic
Crossing Freekick: Miralem Pjanic

—————————— Alisson
Trippier — Hummels — Koulibaly — Rose
————————— Jorginho
—————— Nainggolan — Coutinho
Salah ————————————————— Reus
——————————— Suarez

SUBS: Marquinhos, Milner, Keita, Firmino, Mane, Fekir, Kane


We’ll press the opposition like Liverpool and win the ball as close to their goal as possible or move the ball up the pitch towards the opposition’s goal quickly. My 4-3-3 will overload his midfield and pin back his wing backs. We’ll use the quickness of our one touch, short passing game and using the pace & dribbling ability of the attacking players. However when the opposition get close to our box, we will revert to a defensive block to limit their chances. We defend and attack as a collective unit, limiting the space between the lines in which the opposition plays in.

We will start Pjanic in deep midfield to keep the ball rolling and take advantage of his penetrative passes.

When in attack we will get forward in numbers, using the footballing intelligence & movement of our attacking midfielders & striker to create passing angles and overloads in the opposition’s area of the pitch both out wide and in central zones, looking to drag the opposition’s players out of position and exploiting the space they leave open. When the opposition is using a deep defensive block to shut out our team we will use our fullbacks to create numbers out wide to stretch the opposition (this will be assisted by our CDM splitting the CBs wider allowing the FBs to move up the pitch) simultaneously using our wide-forward to cut inside to create overloads in the central areas giving us a number advantage. When creating chances from the wide areas with the FBs or WFs, we will send crosses in to feed the other forwards. Making runs behind the defence and beyond the striker is not prohibited by our attacking and central midfielders (minus CDM). There is a lot freedom in the movement of our attacking players. No player is restricted to a specific zone on the field or specific task. All four attackers (Coutinho, Salah, Reus, Suarez) will either be provider or finisher with Nainggolan supporting and Casemiro sitting deep in midfield. Shooting from outside the box is encouraged. Our players will also press constantly from the front when we lose possession of the ball.

Offensive & Defensive Transitions:

This is the player's movements & reactions when moving between defence and attack, importantly the movement of the ball as this is arguably the most important aspect of our game. Winning the ball back when your opposition is disorganized is the perfect moment. We will aim for rapid movement up the pitch, with progressive passing to exploit the space left by the opposition. Whether it is from our defensive third of the pitch or whether we have won the ball back in our attacking third of the pitch we will exploit the disorganization of the opposition. We expect most of our attacking play will be as a result of our aggressive high press so we will use the following triggers for pressing the opponent:

1. The ball is played to a player facing his own goal

2. The ball is played to a player against the sidelines (using the sideline as an extra man in our favour)

3. A difficult bouncing ball is played to a player facing his own goal.

When any of these triggers happen, the players closest to the ball will press quickly and another 2 or 3 players will hold off slightly adding depth to the press and closing down their easy option pass. Once we win possession of the ball, we break in numbers again exploiting the opposition with either the pace of our attack. We also understand that we won't always get it right when pressing the opposition so we will employ a 10-second rule on pressing from the front after which, if we did not win back possession, we will revert to our defensive block. If we don’t win the ball after our initial phase of pressing it's imperative that the players work their way back into our defensive zone of the pitch and close the space that the opposition will look to play in. Close the space quickly and look to frustrate the opposition with intelligent positioning and hard tackling before winning the ball back and breaking forward at rapid speed. We will compact the central zones and force the opposition wide which limits the chances of breaking through our midfield. Long diagonal balls and quick releases from deep are encouraged when the opportunity arises. Our forwards have the pace to run onto through-balls.

We go into our defensive block if we cannot win the ball through our pressing. As a team we will defend deep in our half and close the space in the middle of the pitch. When forcing the opposition closer to the touchlines, we will use the touch line as an extra-man and press them so that we can win possession and result in us outnumbering them. If the play is on the left of the field the team will move towards the left and squeeze the space and vice versa on the right. We will try to force our opponents to play hopeful crosses into our box. If a cross is coming from their right our LB will also move into the box to help deal with crosses and vice versa if the cross is coming from the left. The midfielders will be around the box pressing the opponent should they try to play it central. Our wide forwards will help the midfield in closing the space in the centre and then proceed to help the fullback after we have moved the opponent towards the touchline. The wide-forwards are the real work horses in the team and I have 2 very good, hard-working wide-forwards. Our striker will also drop into our half to help the midfield press the opposition’s defence. Also the reasoning behind dropping the striker deep is to draw the opponent’s defence away from their goal creating ample space for us to counter attack.

Substitutions:

If winning after 80 mins bring on Keita for Coutinho. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater defensive cover.

If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Fekir for Coutinho. Fresh creativity and legs.

If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Kane for Jorginho. Nainggolan will press higher to win the ball back quickly. Kane with more goal threat, plays up front with Suarez, in a 4-4-2.

--------------------Buffom
Clyne----Inigo----Vertonghen----Kurzawa
-----------------Wanyama
------------Dahoud------Kovacic
Sterling-----------------------------Son
------------------Lacazette
Subs
Rulli, Retsos, Grimaldo, Vecino, Parejo, Thauvin, Cuadrado


Rulli is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control of the situation, he and the defence have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance being conceded When he has the ball he will look to offload quickly in the direction of the front 3 to get those quick counters started.


Verthongen is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counter attacks, Both CB"s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid sliding tackles unless necessary instead looking to use our experience to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space with the occasional long ball to the front 3 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.




For the full backs today the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly and launching an attack of our own.

 Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who they go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.


The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 3 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.


Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Lacazette, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece due to the ability of our set piece takers. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.



When Lacazette is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead of the defender and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.



Set Pieces


Corners - Kovacic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Lacazette work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Son and Sterling flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Wanyama looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Dahoud takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, as well as occasionally providing the short option to try and draw 2 defenders out of the box.





Free Kicks - Son takes Direct FK's



For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners





Penalties - Lacazette is the designated taker.

Subs



If Winning


70 mins - Thauvin for Son - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.




82 + 86 Mins - Vecino for Kovacic and Grimaldo for Kurzawa - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Vecino for Wanyama - Add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.

If Losing



67 Mins - Thauvin, Retsos and Cuadrado for Wanyama, Kurzawa and Clyne - switch to a 3-5-2 (Son ST, Sterling CAM,Thauvin LWB) with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.

BRIGHTON tactics for the replay against Liverpool

----------------------Navas----------------------
----Valencia---Smalling---Mustafi---Rodriguez----
----------------------Allan----------------------
---Mkhitaryan---Sanson-----Dembele----Payet------
---------------------Benzema---------------------

BENCH
Cech
Fernandes
Monreal
Gueye
Ward-Prowse
Lingard
Mandzukic


BENCH
Playing a possession style football against Liverpool, hold onto the ball and be patient. We are basically playing our best team, we are taking the FA Cup seriously and are confident of pulling off a giant killing. Match them up. A key element of our attack is the intelligence of our players.



DEFENSE
Expecting Dybala and Morata upfront again as before. Our formation focusses on us not defending individuals, but collectively as a team. Defend in two banks of four, with pressure only applied when they get high up.

Valencia and Rodriguez to get narrow, force their wingers out into wide positions, we'll take the hit on crosses coming in if necessary, but I don't want the likes of Lemar and whoever else they put on the wings coming infield.

Sanson and Dembele will put a shift in and protect the defense, as we expect the runners from midfield. Let them have it in the deep positions, it is crucial that you are not pulled out of position. Savic is likely to be the late runner, but Dembele to shepherd him, match him physically.


ATTACK
Expecting Liverpool to play the high press, so we want to ensure we hold onto the ball, pass quickly where necessary. Keep hold of the ball and tire them, as later on in the game we will get chances.

Payet and Mkhitaryan are the wingers nominally, but will be anything but. Both of them have license to drift infield into the #10 role, look to lose your men. If you can bring the full backs into the middle then great. Both of you are intelligent players who can find the killer ball. Valencia and Rodriguez to get forward, provide the width - generally look to cross low.

In central midfield we have three midfielders all comfortable on the ball, be patient and wait for the opportunities. Sanson probably the most attack minded so get forward, but our midfield is flexible, particularly with Dembele able to play the DM role. I prefer rotation to confuse Liverpool rather than rigidly sticking to three positions.

Benzema to link up the play, hold things up and show his intelligence. Look to create spaces for others, with their best CB out you should get some joy.

As a team, look to win set pieces as we have Payet and Rodriguez in our side, both excellent takers. We can scor goals from this.


SET PIECES
Left Corner - Rodriguez
Right Corner - Sanson
Free Kicks - Rodriguez/Payet
Penalties - Payet


SUBSTITUTIONS
If winning
70' - Monreal and Gueye for Sanson and Rodriguez, fresh legs. More defensive minded players in two positions.
80' - Lingard for Payet - always a dangerman on the counter attack. Run at their defense, go for corner if necessary as our opponents will go gung ho. Stay on the halfway line.


If losing
70' - Mandzukic for Sanson. Move to a 4-4-2.
80' - Lingard for Allan. Move to an ultra-attacking 4-1-3-2 with Payet AM.

--------------------Buffom
Clyne----Inigo----Vertonghen----Kurzawa
-----------------Wanyama
------------Dahoud------Kovacic
Sterling-----------------------------Son
------------------Lacazette
Subs
Rulli, Retsos, Grimaldo, Vecino, Parejo, Thauvin, Cuadrado


Rulli is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control of the situation, he and the defence have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance being conceded When he has the ball he will look to offload quickly in the direction of the front 3 to get those quick counters started.


Verthongen is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counter attacks, Both CB"s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid sliding tackles unless necessary instead looking to use our experience to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space with the occasional long ball to the front 3 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.




For the full backs today the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly and launching an attack of our own.

 Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who they go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.


The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 3 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.


Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Lacazette, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece due to the ability of our set piece takers. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.



When Lacazette is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead of the defender and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.



Set Pieces


Corners - Kovacic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Lacazette work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Son and Sterling flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Wanyama looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Dahoud takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, as well as occasionally providing the short option to try and draw 2 defenders out of the box.





Free Kicks - Son takes Direct FK's



For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners





Penalties - Lacazette is the designated taker.

Subs



If Winning


70 mins - Thauvin for Son - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.




82 + 86 Mins - Vecino for Kovacic and Grimaldo for Kurzawa - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Vecino for Wanyama - Add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.

If Losing



67 Mins - Thauvin, Retsos and Cuadrado for Wanyama, Kurzawa and Clyne - switch to a 3-5-2 (Son ST, Sterling CAM,Thauvin LWB) with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.

FA Cup Quarter Final
Tottenham v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

Injuries: Cahill, Juanfran, N'Zonzi, Eriksen

-------------------- Leno
------- Savic - Mascherano - Rojo
------------ Sturaro - Gundogan
--- F Anderson - Sigurdsson - Pastore
--------- Aubameyang - Immobile

Subs: Begovic, Cedric, Hector, Young, A Herrera, Musonda, Falcao

-----------------

A tough but winnable game today against Spurs, hopefully our back three will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.

Spurs won't be expecting us to be so attacking, I'm hoping they'll be attacking too and leave plenty of holes for us to attack. I want to make it a proper end to end affair but with our defence and midfield being more than capable enough to hold out against their attack while having the creativity and pace to hurt them at the other end.

We are playing a 3-2-3-2 today, Leno in goal, Savic, Mascherano and Rojo in the back three, Jorginho and Gundogan anchoring the midfield, Sigurdsson ahead of them, Felipe Anderson and Pastore out wide, with Aubameyang and Immobile upfront.

This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Spurs are strong and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.

Leno - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Aubameyang/Immobile.

Savic/Mascherano/Rojo - Savic and Rojo to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Mascherano to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Two of you go forward for setpieces.

Sturaro/Gundogan - Both of you to anchor the midfield, use your passing range to supply the five ahead of you with chances in advanced positions, link with Sigurdsson who will be the deepest of the attackers, and without the ball help out the back three by closing down their attacking midfielders and wingers.

Sigurdsson - Playing at AM, with the trickery to beat the Spurs DM and supply the ball to the wingers or strikers, Look to supply Aubameyang and Immobile with chances and Anderson and Pastore with possession out wide, interchange with Anderson and Pastore when they cut infield, and shoot on occasion. Link up with Sturaro/Gundogan, and capitalise on the space Aubameyang and Immobile's presence will create for you.

F Anderson/Pastore - Playing as wingers, but both will naturally cut infield, on occasion whip a cross into the area for the front two, but primarily look to put the ball into the feet of them. Link with each other and Sigurdsson, interchange regularly with each other to drag Spurs players out of position, and then look to be in space to receive the ball from Sturaro and Gundogan. Shoot on occasion, and if we are under pressure I expect you two to drop back alongside Sturaro and Gundogan in temporary wingback roles to help out.

Aubameyang/Immobile - you will be expected to occupy the Spurs centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with each other on occasion. Try and link with the five midfielders behind you to create opportunities.

------------------

Subs 70 mins;
If winning: F Anderson, Pastore and Sigurdsson off, Cedric, Hector and Ander Herrera on. Change to a flat 5-3-2, Cedric to RB, Hector to LB either side of the back three, Herrera joins Sturaro and Gundogan in a midfield three, close down the game, Aubameyang and Immobile stay on the halfway line to either keep Spurs from overcommitting or to punish them on the break with a long pass forward.

If drawing: F Anderson and Pastore off, Young and Hector on. Change to 3-4-1-2, little bit more defensively minded with Young at RWB and Hector at LWB, make sure we don't lose the game while still trying to win it.

If losing: Mascherano and Sturaro off, Musonda and Falcao on. 2-1-4-3, even more attacking!

Savic and Rojo holding the fort, Gundogan the playmaker, F Anderson - Sigurdsson - Pastore - Musonda behind Aubameyang, Immobile and Falcao upfront. Push for goals.

BRUM vs Neverton

------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Sidibe----------Bailly------------Ake----------Alonso
------------------------------Matic--------------------------------------
--------------------Alli--------------Brozovic------------------------------
Mahrez------------------------------------------------Perisic
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------Gomez------------------------------------------

Subs - Batalla, J Gomez, Caricol, Cyprien, Arnautovic, Yarmolenko, Vardy

CAPTAIN - MATIC
CK'S - PERISIC
FK'S - ALONSO
PENALTIES - GOMEZ

Into the quarter finals of the cup and we have resisted the urge to go yolo by playing our best 11.

Will play the 433 this week and focus on wing play by getting crosses into the box for Maximiliano Gomez to use his aerial abillity to score.

I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo dont get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.

Defence
Lafont is a quality young keeper. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Bailly and Ake bring a whole lot of experience and pace to the defence. Bailly will use his experience to marshal the defence and Ake will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Matic and Brozovic will be covering for them when they go attacking.

Defence Mid
Matic
Matic will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or play a through ball from deep to our strikers.

Centre Mids
Brozovic + Alli
Brozovic will play more as a b2b mid but will be able to help both in attack and defence as he has a lot of stsmina. He will be making run's forward and helping our attackers with quick passes and penetrating runs from deep. Alli will be playing CM on paper but his main role will be to help in attack. When not in possession of the ball Alli will look to close down the oppo DM's and win the ball off them. No need to stay too deep as Brozovic and Matic are adequate cover in the middle. When attacking I want Alli to make runs into the oppo box and bring others into the game. Play 1 2's with the wingers and create space for yourself and your teammates. Shoot if you see an opening at goal.

Wingers
Mahrez + Perisic
Mahrez and Perisic are two quick wingers but with a sense of physicality to them. Mahrez is a technical player so I want him to take on the oppo left back and to make runs in behind him. Perisic is a tall lad and has the ability to use his strength to shrug off oppo defenders. Mahrez will look to cut in onto his stronger foot and whip in some crosses for Gomez. Perisic likewise although I want him to drift in more and play like an infield striker. I want you both to help track back and help the full backs when they are in our half of the pitch.

Striker
Maximiliano Gomez
Gomez will look to use his strength and aerial prowess to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses from your teammates as you are an expert at scoring headers, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. When we don't have possession of the ball I want you to drop deep and wait around the half way line for an opportunity to hit the oppo on the counter attack, in other words when we win the ball back from a deep position, we will play the long ball into you, and you will hold the ball up while our wingbacks gers make attacking runs upfield and play them through.

Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Vardy for Brozovic and Yarmolenko for Mahrez to bring some more pace on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212.

--------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Sidibe-------------Bailly-----------Ake-------------Alonso
--------------------------------Matic-------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yarmo----------------------------------------------------------Perisic
------------------------------------Alli------------------------------------
-------------------Vardy-----------------Gomez--------------------------


Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Alli and put on Joe Gomez in CB and play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Yarmolenko on for Mahrez and Arnautovic for Perisic to bring some much needed freshness in midfield.

-------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Sidibe-------Bailly--------Ake--------Gomez-------Alonso
----------------------Matic----------Brozovic----------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------Yarmo---------------------------------Arnautovic---------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------Gomez----------------------------------------


Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Vardy on for Gomez
Yarmolenko on for Mahrez
Cyprien on for Brozovic
Fresh legs to bring on.

—————————Pope
Conti——Lindelof———Skriniar———Gaya
———————Torreira——Milinkovic
Sabizter———————Dybala—————Lemar
——————————Morata

Subs: Courtois, R.Pereira, Zagadou, Tielemans, Bernardeschi, Philipp, Mariano

Captain: Sergeij Milinkovic-Savic
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala
Penalties: Paulo Dybala
Corners: Marcel Sabitzer

Off the ball we look to take a more passive approach to defending, in order to maintain a compact set up, draw Brighton forward then hit them on the break. Our front 4 will be charged with counter pressing and slowing opposition attacks down after turnovers. We want the three ball side forwards to lead the counter press, putting pressure on the deepest Brighton midfielder’s, Dybala and Morata in particular making sure that they are forced to pass sideways, whilst the ball side winger will look to close off diagonal forward passing lanes towards the opposition winger. This is designed to allow our CMs to recover their position in front of our defence, and allow the opposite side players to also fall into their defensive positions, whilst slowing the attack down and forcing it wider gives the opponents less room to manoeuvre into.

Once we have moved them wide we drop in to a 4-4-2, with the two wingers dropped back alongside the CMs providing their FBs with protection and Dybala + Morata forming a block around the deepest midfielder, essentially creating a 6 vs 3 in the midfield in our favour. We focus on defending our own half zonally, giving their midfield no room to play in, Torreira and Milinkovic using their energy and strength to snuff out any attacks that begin to threaten our back 4.

The wingers will be key, they focus on defending the half spaces, both very hard working and defensively strong players, make sure that when the opposition wingers drop infield they find everything congested, allow our CMs to stay in the central positions by protecting these zones, force the opposition to bring their FBs forward and push their wingers higher and wider, so that we have acres of space to counter down the flanks. When the opposition do have the ball by the touchline we shuffle across as a whole team to defend the flank, not allowing easy switches of play by maintaining our two man block around their deepest midfielder.

Dybala/Morata are key defensively, they must insure that they don’t ever give the DM time or space, when the ball moves towards him be quick in to him, test his touch, if we can rob him when they have players committed forward on either side they are going to be vulnerable. This two man block should force them to split their CBs and we should start to see gaps between them which the movement of Morata and Dybala and pace of Lemar can exploit in transition periods.

The back four remains narrow to each other, no gaps between FBs and CBs, we know that their wingers are tricky and want to exploit these positions, keep tight to them, make sure we are always close together so if one is beaten he can be backed up immediately. Stand up strong to them and look to get a toe in, force the ball back towards midfield. Skriniar comes in for his physicality, we want to give their CFs a battle today.

Going forward we look to create overloads in the opposition’s formation. The Cbs will support this style, with Lindelof able to bring the ball out of defence and draw opposition CMs on to him to help one of our midfielders find space, whilst Skriniar is able to use his laser passing from deep to find the gaps between the opposition lines.

Torreira is to be more the more disciplined, hold his position behind the attack in order to quickly snuff out any counter attacks, and then redistribute the ball. He will act as a 2nd passer, giving both the CBs and CM/AMs a wall pass option to drag the opposition blocks out of their positions. Milinkovic has freedom when we attack, he will help to create overloads, either creating 2 vs 2 with their deepest midfielders, moving out wide to create overlaps or moving into the box for crosses.

When we get into the final third overloads out wide will become pivotal. Dybala/Milinkovic will look to drift out towards the wing in order to create triangles out wide. With their FBs not known for their defending, we can really hurt them today. When Dybala/Milinkovic drifts wide, the other stays in the 10 space with the opposite winger to maintain our central presence, and to stop their DMs being quick to leave the middle ground open, this will either create space out wide or centrally. Focus on attacking down the right, getting Gaya, Lemar and Dybala/Milinkovic working together to overload the flank, but always maintain structure so if Gaya overlaps, Lemar drops deeper to avoid being countered, if Dybala/Milinkovic runs towards the touchline, Lemar inverts. On the opposite side Conti will push right up, stop their opposite side FB following Sabitzer, gives us the option of crosses from the right, switches to the left, and overloads infield. Conti attacks the box for crosses from the left.

Morata looks to use his movement to get behind the defence and also to position himself for crosses. When we are building centrally he can drop deep to provide another body to overload their midfield, his link up play with Dybala is top drawer and it will serve to pull defenders towards the midfield, particularly when Dybala, Savic, Morata are all linking centrally, allowing Lemar to use his pace to make runs in behind. Use this to attack any space that appears, as well as creating space by having the back four dragged backwards and forwards at the same time, give the opposition midfield way more ground to cover.

Subs:

If Winning: Tielemans for Lemar 70’, Milinkovic to LM and Tielemans drops in to add some control to the midfield. Zagadou for Gaya 75’. R.Pereira for Dybala 80’, Sabitzer AM and Pereira RM.

If Drawing: Bernardeschi for Sabitzer 70’, fresh pace out wide. Philipp and Mariano for Lemar and Morata 75’, two new threats, Philipp to play on the shoulder of the defenders and Mariano to battle his way around the box.

If Losing: Bernardeschi for Conti 60’, looks to start making overlapping runs. Philipp for Sabitzer 70’, Philipp can start making runs off of Morata whilst Bernardeschi holds width. Mariano for Gaya 80’, goes up front as we go all out.

Pens:
1. Sergeij Milinkovic-Savic
2. Federico Bernardeschi
3. Mariano Mejia
4. Maxi Philipp
5. Paulo Dybala
6. Alvaro Morata
7. Lucas Torreira

FA Cup Quarter Final
Tottenham v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

Injuries: Cahill, Juanfran, N'Zonzi, Eriksen

-------------------- Leno
------- Savic - Mascherano - Rojo
------------ Sturaro - Gundogan
--- F Anderson - Sigurdsson - Pastore
--------- Aubameyang - Immobile

Subs: Begovic, Cedric, Hector, Young, A Herrera, Musonda, Falcao

-----------------

A tough but winnable game today against Spurs, hopefully our back three will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.

Spurs won't be expecting us to be so attacking, I'm hoping they'll be attacking too and leave plenty of holes for us to attack. I want to make it a proper end to end affair but with our defence and midfield being more than capable enough to hold out against their attack while having the creativity and pace to hurt them at the other end.

We are playing a 3-2-3-2 today, Leno in goal, Savic, Mascherano and Rojo in the back three, Sturaro and Gundogan anchoring the midfield, Sigurdsson ahead of them, Felipe Anderson and Pastore out wide, with Aubameyang and Immobile upfront.

This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Spurs are strong and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.

Leno - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Aubameyang/Immobile.

Savic/Mascherano/Rojo - Savic and Rojo to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Mascherano to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Two of you go forward for setpieces.

Sturaro/Gundogan - Both of you to anchor the midfield, use your passing range to supply the five ahead of you with chances in advanced positions, link with Sigurdsson who will be the deepest of the attackers, and without the ball help out the back three by closing down their attacking midfielders and wingers.

Sigurdsson - Playing at AM, with the trickery to beat the Spurs DM and supply the ball to the wingers or strikers, Look to supply Aubameyang and Immobile with chances and Anderson and Pastore with possession out wide, interchange with Anderson and Pastore when they cut infield, and shoot on occasion. Link up with Sturaro/Gundogan, and capitalise on the space Aubameyang and Immobile's presence will create for you.

F Anderson/Pastore - Playing as wingers, but both will naturally cut infield, on occasion whip a cross into the area for the front two, but primarily look to put the ball into the feet of them. Link with each other and Sigurdsson, interchange regularly with each other to drag Spurs players out of position, and then look to be in space to receive the ball from Sturaro and Gundogan. Shoot on occasion, and if we are under pressure I expect you two to drop back alongside Sturaro and Gundogan in temporary wingback roles to help out.

Aubameyang/Immobile - you will be expected to occupy the Spurs centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with each other on occasion. Try and link with the five midfielders behind you to create opportunities.

------------------

Subs 70 mins;
If winning: F Anderson, Pastore and Sigurdsson off, Cedric, Hector and Ander Herrera on. Change to a flat 5-3-2, Cedric to RB, Hector to LB either side of the back three, Herrera joins Sturaro and Gundogan in a midfield three, close down the game, Aubameyang and Immobile stay on the halfway line to either keep Spurs from overcommitting or to punish them on the break with a long pass forward.

If drawing: F Anderson and Pastore off, Young and Hector on. Change to 3-4-1-2, little bit more defensively minded with Young at RWB and Hector at LWB, make sure we don't lose the game while still trying to win it.

If losing: Mascherano and Sturaro off, Musonda and Falcao on. 2-1-4-3, even more attacking!

Savic and Rojo holding the fort, Gundogan the playmaker, F Anderson - Sigurdsson - Pastore - Musonda behind Aubameyang, Immobile and Falcao upfront. Push for goals.

Attacking 3-5-2

At home against Arsenal we go for the win with an attacking but balanced side. We have shuffled the pack slightly, so that we can get two forwards up top and can give our attacking midfielders freedom with two strong defensive midfielders. We also have 3 defenders who are strong on the ball and will be able to play a high line.

We feel this move to make us more attacking gives us the pace up top in the right area to cause the Arsenal cbs problems, gives us numbers in midfield, the wingers can focus on attacking down the wings and stretching the play for us. If Arsenal do push up we have pace in a front two to get in behind.

The midfield should never be flat. Create as many lines as possible to increase the options we have in possession, and to create gaps in the opposition. We go with two attacking wide players, stretching the game for us and creating space. Look to overload the opposition defence. Rafinha looking to link between the lines and Can offering a powerful option to break from midfield.

At the other end we go with a high line, we want to attack, take the game to Arsenal and get our players in positions they can do the damage. Protecting against a counter, Kante will be patrolling in front of the defence and Azpi looking to sweep up any bother behind defence. Neuer is then the final sweeper keeper, playing out from the back. Can gives us another strong defensive player next to Kante, able to get back and help the cbs/Kante where needed.

We will also try the odd long ball, either direct to Ronaldo or over the top for the pace of our forwards to run on to.

We defend in a rigid defensive unit high up the pitch behind the ball, the two closest players pressing the ball, the others getting back and pressing the space so that they have no options to break.


------------------- Neuer --------------------
-------- Azpi – Otamendi - Romagnoli --
---------------- Kante -- E.Can ------------
A.Correa ------- Rafinha --------- Asensio
-------------- Ronaldo – Hazard ---------

Subs. Schmeichel, Odriozola, Marcelo, Thiago, James, Guedes, Richarlison

Defending high up the pitch

We look to control the opposition by pressing the space high up the pitch with a narrow rigid defensive unit. Simply having our attacking players in the right defensive positions in front of our strong to defence to make us difficult to break down. Make it difficult for the opposition to play out.

When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone else bar Ronaldo gets behind the ball into position. Stop them breaking.

As the Arsenal advance into higher areas of the park and into our thrid shape will resemble a 4-5-1, narrowing to the side of play. Can dropping to lb. Hazard drops onto their dm.

In this tight rigid formation, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Kante will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, reading any dangers to get across.

Narrowing the play to the side the Arsenal are attacking, pushing them backwards and wide away from danger. When they switch play, we switch over.

Attack

Centre backs play out, they have the option to go long or have Kante, Rafinha and Koke offering options. Get the ball to our attacking midfield trio.

The attacking trio in front will always be looking for space in between their midfield and attack. Asensio and Correa always making themselves available advanced down the wings.

We want quick one twos in the opposition half, using our wingers to get in behind and link with Hazard and Rafinha. If it is not on, we are happy to keep possession, attacking down the wings.

Ronaldo has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals.

If winning after 65 mins bring on Marcelo for Correa. 4-2-3-1. Hazard LW, Asensio rw.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Thiago for Rafinha.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Richarlison for Asensio. Power and pace to get at their tired legs.

If drawing after 60 mins bring on James and Thiago for Rafinha and Can. Two creative players on to unlock their defence and to domiante possession, tire out the opposition.
If drawing after 65 mins bring on Guedes for Correa.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Marcelo and Thiago for Correa and Can. 4-2-3-1. Two attacking players on to unlock their defence and to help change shape. Asensio to RW. Hazard lw.
If losing after 67 mins bring on James for Rafinha. A player who can get in between the lines and brings goals.

--------------------------Lloris
----------Manolas---Kompany---Llorente
Danilo-------Goretzka-----Carvalho-----Maitland-Niles
-------Callejon------------------------Costa
-------------------------Cavani

Pickford, Blind, Veltman, Zielinski, Aspas, Fabregas, Sessegnon

We know that we are in for a tough game today, going up against a team with plenty of talent throughout their side. For that reason we have chosen to set up with a ‘defensive’ system, playing three at the back, so that we have numbers, but with plenty of pace in the side, so that we can hit Leicester on the break whenever we win the ball back in our own half. That is how we want to play. We want to be tough to break down, whilst also playing with pace when we get on the ball.
The back three should work well as a unit, staying in line with each other, and not playing too high a line, as we recognise there may be a lack of pace in there. Kompany will martial the other two to stay in line with each other, and also provide covering runs, should Manolas or Llorente be caught out of position. When they pick up the ball, they should look to spread it out wide to the wing backs, or to the wingers, if they have dropped into space. This should be done as quickly as possible, so as to discourage dallying on the ball.
The wing backs are key to our system. When the opponent have the ball they will drop back and keep the opposition wide players stranded on the flanks. Their strength will come, however, when we are on the ball. Both players are quick and good at getting forward. They will provide overlapping runs, and won’t be afraid to run at their opponent. This game requires them to maintain their energy levels and not tire, but thankfully both have good stamina levels. AMN may be young, but he plays with a maturity, and is good with both feet. He can utilise this to cut inside, should the opportunity present itself.
Carvalho and Goretzka play a key role in our midfield. We are fully aware that we probably aren’t going to see too much of the ball, so it is important that these two play an energetic, harrying performance, to put the pressure on the opposition attacking midfielders. They will look to cut out through balls, and also to get stuck in when the opportunity presents itself. Both of them are capable on the ball as well, and when they win it back or have it passed to them, they should look to spread it out wide to one of the wing backs or one of the wingers. Carvalho will sit in front of the defence even when we are on the attack. Goretzka, however, will be allowed to push forward, to provide more bodies in the attack.
Our wide men are both going to be allowed to run at the opposition defence when on the ball. We should have wing backs overlapping, and so they will most run inside, attacking the opposition CBs, whilst the wing backs attack the enemy FBs. I have positioned them slightly inside of their usual wide positions. This for two reasons. Firstly, it facilitates the overlapping runs of the FBs, allowing them more space to run into and helping them not to make the same runs. It will also hopefully either drag the opposition FBs out of position, or help the wide men to find space further inside, whilst still providing them the ability to run wide with the ball. When the opposition has the ball, the wide men will get back to help limit the amount of space available.
Cavani is, once again, leading the line for us today. He is to use his physicality and stamina to close down high up the pitch, preventing the opposition from playing out of the back, and maybe forcing them into errors. When the ball is held in our own half, he will drop back to the half way line, offering an outlet for a long ball, if necessary, and then laying the ball off to the wide men who will push past him, before getting on his bike and getting in the box. We want to provide him mostly chances that suit an instinctive finisher, by getting crosses in around the penalty area or six yard box Cavani is comfortable putting the ball in with his head or his feet, so a variety of crosses can be used.
Should we be losing going into the last thirty minutes, I will allow Goretzka to push a bit further forward when attacking, and give him more of a free role, whilst Carvalho stays just in front of the defence.
Substitutions
If losing/drawing
65 mins
Aspas on for Callejon
Fresh legs on the right hand side, and an instinctive finisher who likes to play direct football,. We will utilise him more as an inside forward than a winger, with him driving at the centre backs to creat more space for Cavani.
75 mins
Goretzka off for Fabregas
Fabregas will play in an AM role in behind Cavqani, acting as a link up option in between Cavani and the rest of the team, spreading the ball around the top end of the pitch.
80 mins
Costa off for Sessegnon
A fresh pair of legs on the left. Sessegnon may bne young, but he knows where th back of the net is. Allow him to run at tired defenders with pace and get into the box

If Winning
65 mins
Carvalho off Zielinski on
Fresh legs in front of the defence. Goretzka will start to play a flat role along side Zielinski. Improved physicality and getting stuck in.
75 mins
Maitland-Niles off Sessegnon on
Fresh legs at WB. Sessegnon may provide us a bit of pace to hit them on the break, as they no doubt through attacks our way. He will play a counter attacking game behind Costa.

80 mins
Cavani off Aspas on
Simi8lar to Sessegnon, Aspas is a quicker and slitghter option who should make use of a tiring defence to

——--------------- Ter Stegan -------------------
---- A.Rudiger -- J.Boateng -- D.Luiz --———
----------- Kondogbia --- A.Vidal ----------——
B.Silva ——------- L.Modric --------- A.Martial
--------- M.Batshuayi -- M.Icardi -------------

Subs:
McCarthy, Bellerin, Wendell, Guerreiro, Lookman, Robben, Dembele

Captain: Boateng
Free Kicks: B.Silva
Penalties: Icardi
Corners: Modric

Team Tactics:

We go with a 3-5-2 as we look to take the game to our opponents, pressing them high up the pitch, forcing turnovers in dangerous areas as we put their players under pressure when in possession and hit them with our array of attacking threats.

When in possession we look to play quick passes, our transition from defence to attack will be swift as we get the ball to our central midfielders to dictate the play. Modric in the hole has license to roam whilst our wide players push forward from the flanks. Up top we go with Batshuayi alongside Icardi, they will be key in our attack as they occupy the oppositions central defenders as we look to pin them back. The quality of B.Silva and Martial will be an increased threat from the flanks, both will track back when not in possession however they have license to get forward when we are on the ball comfortable in the knowledge that we have three top class CB’s patrolling our defence.

When the opposition are in possession – we drop into a 5-3-2 formation, our wingers dropping deep behind the ball with Modric dropping into a midfield three making it increasingly difficult for the opposition to play through us. We sit deep and do not allow any space in behind, drawing the opposition onto us which will create plenty of space which we will look to exploit with a swift counter attack.

Individual responsibilities:

Goalkeeper – Ter Stegan getting his chance to shine and a solid shot stopper. He will dominate the box, come for the ball and commanding on set pieces. We look to start attacks from the back, distributing to our CB’s or if the opposition press we take advantage of this by spraying the ball out wide, immediately bypassing the press and putting us on the front foot.

Centre Backs – We go with a back three today. All offering a very physical commanding presence all three offering superb pace and athleticism which will be integral in eliminating the threat posed by the pace of the opposition. Boateng will play through the middle and pick up the striker, sticking tight and giving no room to manoeuvre. If the opposition play two up the one of Luiz or Rudiger will pick up the second striker with the other covering in behind.

Wingers – They will both form part of our attacking arsenal as we look to overwhelm our opponents. They will be key attacking outlets as we look to widen the pitch and stretch our opponents. Both have fantastic work rate and the ability to track back however we expect them to cause real danger going forward. They are encouraged to drive forward taking on opponent. Bernardo will look to cut inside and get a shot away at any opportunity. Martial will look to carry the ball in possession, whipping crosses in for the forwards to attack whilst also utilising his superb dribbling ability to drive to the byline and cut the ball back for one of Batshuayi or Icardi to finish.

Central Midfield – Kondogbia and Vidal will form a double pivot in midfield. They offer a strong physical presence and tasked with breaking up the oppositions play. We will look to overpower them in the middle of the park, winning the midfield battle will allow us to dictate the play. Kondogbia will sit as a DM whilst Vidal plays the box to box role. With Modric slightly ahead of them in the AM role these three will be key in retaining possession and creating chances for our forwards. Quick slick passing will move their counterparts out of position, we will make them continually chase the ball and all three have the ability to open them up should the opposition choose to sit deep. Modric will be slightly more advanced, sitting in the hole behind the strikers and dropping in to pockets of space making him difficult to pick up.

Forwards – We play two up top as we go for goals, the pace, power and movement offered by these two will cause the opposition problems. Both will attack the box looking to get on the end of crosses and put away any chances that fall their way. With plenty of creativity in behind them we fancy them to have plenty of opportunities. Both are accomplished finishers and with the likes of Vidal, Modric, Bernardo and Sane supplying the ammunition we will be aiming for goals.

Subs 65 mins;

If winning: Silva and Batshuayi off. Guerreiro and Bellerin on. We go 5-4-1, Bellerin drops to RB, Guerreiro to LB we play a solid back 5, forming a brick wall in front of our goal. Modric and Martial drop to the midfield offering increased defensive cover in a 4 man midfield with Icardi the lone man up top. We make ourselves compact and difficult to play through as we see the game out.

If drawing: Kondogbia off, Robben on. Robben adds a new dimension to our attack from the flanks whilst Modric slots in alongside Vidal, Silva moves to the AM bringing increased creativity through the our midfield trio as we look to carve out a winner.

If losing: Kondogbia and Rudiger off, Robben and Dembele on. We go all guns blazing with Icardi, Batshuayi and Dembele in a front three. Vidal, Modric and B.Silva form a creative trio in the middle with Martial and Robben pushing forward from the flanks as we go for goals.

———————————Courtois
R.Pereira——Christensen——Skriniar———Gaya
————Tielemans——Torreira——Milinkovic
—Dybala———————Morata——————Lemar

Subs: Pope, Zagadou, Maier, Zinchenko, Bernardeschi, Philipp, Mariano

Captain: Thibaut Courtois
Corners: Youri Tielemans
Penalties: Paulo Dybala
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala

Off the ball we look to take a more passive approach to defending, in order to maintain a compact set up, draw Villa forward then hit them on the break. Our front 3 will be charged with counter pressing and slowing opposition attacks down after turnovers. We want Dybala and Lemar to narrow to the area of play, so Morata puts the initial press on and the wide men drop behind him, either blocking the route to the centre, or trapping the opposition build up out with the FB. This is designed to allow our CMs to recover their position in front of our defence. The main aim of the front three should be to make sure the opposition have to go wide to find space.

Once we have moved them wide we drop in to a 4-4-2, Lemar dropping back and Dybala + Morata forming a block around the deepest midfielder, essentially creating a 6 vs 3 in the midfield in our favour. We focus on defending our own half zonally, giving their midfield no room to play in, Torreira and Milinkovic using their energy and strength to snuff out any attacks that begin to threaten our back 4. Tielemans and Lemar will then stay very narrow to these two, so that when Villa attack centrally we can make a diamond in midfield to suffocate their central players, and when they move wide Tielemans/Lemar can move out to help our FB whilst the other three maintain a trio centrally. When the opposition do have the ball by the touchline we shuffle across as a whole team to defend the flank, not allowing easy switches of play by maintaining our two man block around their deepest midfielder.

Dybala/Morata are key defensively, they must insure that they don’t ever give the DM time or space, when the ball moves towards him, be quick in to him, test his touch, if we can rob him when they have players committed forward on either side they are going to be vulnerable. This two man block should force them to split their CBs and we should start to see gaps between them which the movement of Morata and Dybala and pace of Lemar can exploit in transition periods.

The back four remains narrow to each other, no gaps between FBs and CBs, we know that they will throw everything forward and that their wide forwards want to play infield, so we want to keep a narrow defence to work alongside the narrow midfield block. Stand up strong to them and look to get a toe in, force the ball back towards midfield. Skriniar comes in for his physicality, we want to give their CFs a battle today.

Going forward we look to create overloads in the opposition’s formation. The Cbs will support this style, with Christensen able to bring the ball out of defence and draw opposition CMs on to him to help one of our midfielders find space, whilst Skriniar is able to use his laser passing from deep to find the gaps between the opposition lines. First port of call is to look for Lemar and Dybala drifting behind the opposition FBs/WBs where we think there will be a lot of space, or to use Milinkovic as a target man to bypass the press.

Torreira is to be disciplined, hold his position behind the attack in order to quickly snuff out any counter attacks, and then redistribute the ball. He will act as a 2nd passer, giving both the CBs and CMs/forwards a wall pass option to drag the opposition blocks out of their positions. Tielemans and Milinkovic will play box to box, Tielemans using his passing and Milinkovic his powerful dribbling.

Further into their half we must use plenty of vertical movements, always playing between the lines in order to insure the opposition is facing our build up, allowing us to play in their blind sides. Vertical movement also means that defenders must make a decision whether to stick to defending the ball, or tracking runs, tackling a player or allowing them the ball, thus we can distort their preferred defensive shape. We have a whole host of vertical movements possible, with Tielemans and Milinkovic to use the half spaces, forcing defenders to move out of position, particularly down the right where with Pereira occupying their FB we can get Tielemans and Dybala in the right half space and channel, linking up together. Morata will be the same, he can drop deep, or run behind, this will either draw defenders out of the back line which opens up space for others to run into, particularly Lemar who will look to play on the shoulder of FB and CB, one ball through to him and we are away, or Morata makes a passing lane for the man on the ball so he can get in on goal himself. Dybala coming in to the right half space looks to provide a spark, he can pass, he can move, he can beat a man, he has total freedom. Verticality means we are not afraid to go backwards, that can be used to our advantage too to create time to open up extra passing lanes and players to change their runs. The FBs can also get forward, one at a time with the other dropping to make a back 3, this way we use our attacking FB to occupy the opposition FB whilst the wingers comes infield into the half space.

Subs:

If Winning: Maier for Tielemans 70’, keeps midfield secure. Zagadou for Gaya 75’. Bernardeschi for Dybala 80’.

If Drawing: Mariano for Morata 70’. Philipp for Tielemans 75’, 4-2-3-1, get Dybala through the middle and Philipp stretching Villa with his running in behind.

If Losing: Philipp for Tielemans 60’, 4-2-3-1. Bernardeschi for R.Pereira 70’, get forward from RB and stretch the game. Mariano for Milinkovic 75’, 4-1-3-2.

If pens:

1. Mariano Diaz
2. Thomas Lemar
3. Maximilian Philipp
4. Lucas Torreira
5. Paulo Dybala
6. Federico Bernardeschi
7. Sergeij Milinkovic-Savic
8. Jose Gaya
9. Alvaro Morata
10. Thibaut Courtois

Comment deleted by Article Creator

-------------------------- De Gea --------------------------
---------------- Sanchez ------- Bonucci -----------------
Carvajal -------------- Busquets -------------- Emerson
---------------- Tolisso ----------- Rabiot ----------------
-- Mbappe ------------- Aguero ------------- Neymar --


Butland, Lenglet, Pogba, Henrichs, Bailey, Coman, Jesus



We want to play high tempo football with plenty of possession, no point in long balls with the lack of height up front so lets start from the back and play through them, and if not get it out quickly to our wide men, we have the players in the midfield to dictate this game today, quick one touch, triangles to get beyond the lines of defence, Essentially still 433 but can easily shift to 343 with Busquets dropping back into a 3rd CB if need be.

De Gea is an imposing figure between the sticks with excellent reflexes to make him a commanding shot-stopper and comfortable with the ball at his feet, out very quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.

Sanchez and Bonucci at CB, Sanchez picks up the CF, Bonucci sits spare picking up a 2nd CF/AM, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, by getting onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it away out of defence, no need to panic, look to move it simply to Busquets who is just in front of them or our fullbacks as we look to start our attacks from deep. Both are very comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass to get us moving forward. Carvajal and Emerson at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Both are perfect for this, They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. A lot of focus today is getting the ball wide, so both can attack, hence the three in midfield, they drive down the line in support of the wingers, Emerson gets outside Neymar to allow him to cut inside whereas Carvajal will support Mbappe by either pushing out wide or going inside to allow the winger to drive passed his man, but the two always make themselves available to the wingers. I want both CBs to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Busquets sitiing back.

Our midfield 3 are essential to our style of play, Busquets central sits a little deeper just in front of the CB's as he looks to pick up the ball from them or GK, a quick turn and head up he will look to get us moving with a ball either out wide to Carvajal/Emerson or a little further up to the wingers, if he is getting hounded down then he is physical enough to brush these players off him, having Tolisso and Rabiot just in front allows him the time as they shield him, they don't allow anyone to get on top of Busquets which gives him that extra second to get the ball moving. We can move very quickly from defence to attack, so if Portsmouth are up field and lose it then we can counter very quickly, like said Tolisso and Rabiot are vital in both defensive and attacking mode, they with Busquets shield our back 4 but when we are in control they will push just up ahead of Busquets to support the attack, they will at times receive the ball from the fullbacks so a quick pass back or ahead to the wingers, playing the ball in triangles to get round the opposition quickly will get them away from the Portsmouth fullbacks/midfielders. I want them to be a dominating midfield 3 in both defence and attack and work as a unit. Tolisso will be the one furthest up field to support Aguero, looking to get him in on goal or indeed have a go himself.

In Mbappe and Neymar we will look to push full/wing backs back up the pitch by pressing them, we will be playing a high line as we have Busquets sitting in, they have an abundance of pace for this, All I want them to do is get into the face of them, stop them breaking up the pitch and getting up to support their own forwards. When attacking they will have the support from Carvajal and Emerson as we look to have a real go down the flanks, Mbappe will play more of a 'winger' than Neymar so he will drive down the line with pace,(he is extremely quick) beating his man along the way, can use Tolisso and Carvajal as the three look to eventually get the ball into Aguero or Neymar driving in from the left. Neymar himself does all the fancy stuff, he will dribble passed players and cut inside, so we allow him to be free today, with Emerson in support and Rabiot there making himself available like the right the left will be very dangerous, we need to use our pace to our advantage get beyond the fullbacks and drive into support Jesus. They have so much pace and are versatile up front then they can interchange at any time Must help the defence tho by tracking the fullbacks or wingbacks

We want a high tempo game from our midfield 5 and fullbacks if you want to call it that, passing and moving, getting it out wide to where we see our strengths, push them back wards, I want to press them back into there own half, they may well have possession but if its in there own half they wont cause us many problems.

Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back,however they have a very inexperienced goalkeeper today so we must pressurize him. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower of the cbs, they may be big and strong but with a low centre of gravity he can push passed them hopefully, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Mbappe and Neymar, who will be making there runs also so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side. But especially look for Neymar as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.If he cant go for goal he will look to bring others into the game with short passes or lay offs.

Captain - Bonucci
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers

Losing
70 Mins - Bailey for Carvajal, Coman for Emerson, Busquets drops inand go very attacking 343
80 Mins - Jesus for Aguero

Winning -
70 Mins - Carvajal and Emerson drop back into fullback roles but limit there attacking runs, Bailey on for Mbappe

80 Mins - 451 and Coman on for Neymar
85 Mins - Jesus for Aguero

Drawing -
70 Mins - Pogba for Rabiot more drive into support Aguero, Bailey for Mbappe
80 Mins - Jesus for Tolisso 442 Jesus just off Aguero
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Red Card

De gea - Butland for Mbappe 4-3-2
Fullback - henrichs for Mbappe 4-3-2
CB - Lenglet go to LCB for Mbappe 4-3-2
Busquets - Rabiot drop deep and Pogba for Mbappe
Toliiso or Rabiot - Pogba on for Mbappe
One of the front three we go 4-3-2

----------------------Buffon
-------Sokratis---Vertonghen-Inigo
Cuadrado--Strootman--Kovacic----Kurzawa
-----Sterling-----------------------------Son
---------------------Lacazette
Subs
Rulli, Retsos, Clyne, Vecino, Parejo, Inaki, Sanabria


Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control of the situation, he and the defence have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance being conceded. When he has the ball he will look to offload quickly in the direction of the front 3 to get those quick counters started.


Verthongen is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, all the centre backs will stay back to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counter attacks, the CB"s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid sliding tackles unless necessary instead looking to use our experience to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space with the occasional long ball to the front 3 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.




For the wing backs today the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly and launching an attack of our own.

 Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who they go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.


The focus of the midfield 2 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 3 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.


Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Lacazette, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece due to the ability of our set piece takers. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.



When Lacazette is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead of the defender and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.



Set Pieces


Corners - Kovacic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the WB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Lacazette work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Son and Sterling flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Inigo looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Strooty takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, as well as occasionally providing the short option to try and draw 2 defenders out of the box.





Free Kicks - Son takes Direct FK's



For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners





Penalties - Lacazette is the designated taker.

Subs



If Winning


70 mins - Inaki for Son - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.




82 + 86 Mins - Vecino for Kovacic and Clyne for Cuadrado - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Parejo for Strooty - Add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.

If Losing



67 Mins - Parejo and Inaki for Strooty and Cuadrado - emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.

--------------------- Patricio ----------------------
Pereira --- Schindler --- Koscielny --- Ricardo
----------------------- Allan ------------------------
-------------- Dembele -- Wilshere --------------
L.Moura ---------------------------------- D.Payet
--------------------- Benzema ---------------------

Navas, McKenna, Gueye, Mata, Pastore, Mandzukic, Rooney


In goal Patricio, a super confident keeper, excellent shot stopper, who will close down strikers and reduce there shooting angels, look to spread the play from the back and release our wide men early. Many attacks will start from the goalkeeper.

Ricardo Pereira & Ricardo Rodriguez have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, one always staying back so we will have a back 3, they will bomb down the line supporting the wingers, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Benzema. They look to play one twos with the attacking midfield 3 which will get them beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Schindler the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. He is a no nonsense defender so will look to give the CF a very tough time as he gets onto him quickly. Koscielny alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, both strong defenders, dominate in the air and good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Schindler and Koscielny up for corners, fullbacks and Allan stay back. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both Schindler and Koscielny are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..

Allan's primary role is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defence where the opposition’s number 10 will likely to be operating whilst also being aware when the full-backs had pushed forward.Take care of of the No 10/SS is also a main focus, stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat

Dembele is our box-to-box midfielder and has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for team mates, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running they are expected to do. The box-to-box midfielder is more likely to be found on the side of the pitch where the full-back that is less efficient in the attacking third plays to provide balance on both flanks. Wilshere's main responsibility is to create chances for the three attackers in front of him. He will often find himself the furthest forward of the three midfielders and sometimes even in the number 10 role if the correct situation arises. The main requirement of Wilshere is creativity; he needs to be able to play a pass that penetrates the opposition’s defense or dictates the direction of the attack These three should work well together and between them have everything a midfield needs.

Moura and Payet are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos, using Wilshere to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drives passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of himself centrally. Sane will use his tricks and flicks and pace to get him where he wants to be, again using Wilshere to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Benzema so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.Benzema will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two/three with the aid of Wilshere and the wingers. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges with hopefully a few crosses coming in he can get up and above defenders for. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Moura, Payet and Wilshere will be making his runs also so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side if he cant go for goal himself. But especially look for Payet as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.

Captain - Koscielny
Penalties - Benzema
Free kicks - Payet
Corners - Wingers

Losing -
65 Mins - Mandzukic for Wilshere. he goes to LW and Payet to No.10
75 Mins - Mata for Payet and Pastore for Dembele, more energy and creativity in the middle

85 Mins - 4-4-2 Mata to the right, Moura to the left and Mandy up top, long balls for him to win

Winning -
70 Mins - Gueye for Wilshere and drop in beside Allan
80 Mins - Mandzukic for Benzema

Drawing -
70 Mins - Mandzukic for Wilshere, Mata for Payet and Mata to No.10, Mandy out left

BRUM vs newcastle

---------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Sidibe------------Bailly---------------Ake---------------Caricol
----------------------------------Matic--------------------------------------
-----------------Mkhitaryan---------Kondogbia---------------------------
Mahrez---------------------------------------------------------Perisic
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------Gomez------------------------------------------

Subs - Batalla, J Gomez, Maguire, Cyprien, Arnautovic, Willian, Vardy

CAPTAIN - MATIC
CK'S - PERISIC
FK'S - PERISIC
PENALTIES - GOMEZ

Will play the 433 this week and focus on wing play by getting crosses into the box for Maximiliano Gomez to use his aerial abillity to score.

I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo dont get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.

Defence
Lafont is a quality young keeper. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Bailly and Ake bring a whole lot of experience and pace to the defence. Bailly will use his experience to marshal the defence and Ake will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Matic and Brozovic will be covering for them when they go attacking.

Defence Mid
Matic
Matic will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or play a through ball from deep to our strikers.

Centre Mids
Kondogbia + Mkhitaryan
Kondogbia will play more as a b2b mid but will be able to help both in attack and defence as he has a lot of stsmina. He will be making run's forward and helping our attackers with quick passes and penetrating runs from deep. Mkhitaryan will be playing CM on paper but his main role will be to help in attack. When not in possession of the ball Mkhi will look to close down the oppo DM's and win the ball off them. No need to stay too deep as Kondogbia and Matic are adequate cover in the middle. When attacking I want Mkhi to make runs into the oppo box and bring others into the game. Play 1 2's with the wingers and create space for yourself and your teammates. Shoot if you see an opening at goal.

Wingers
Mahrez + Perisic
Mahrez and Perisic are two quick wingers but with a sense of physicality to them. Mahrez is a technical player so I want him to take on the oppo left back and to make runs in behind him. Perisic is a tall lad and has the ability to use his strength to shrug off oppo defenders. Mahrez will look to cut in onto his stronger foot and whip in some crosses for Gomez. Perisic likewise although I want him to drift in more and play like an infield striker. I want you both to help track back and help the full backs when they are in our half of the pitch.

Striker
Maximiliano Gomez
Gomez will look to use his strength and aerial prowess to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses from your teammates as you are an expert at scoring headers, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. When we don't have possession of the ball I want you to drop deep and wait around the half way line for an opportunity to hit the oppo on the counter attack, in other words when we win the ball back from a deep position, we will play the long ball into you, and you will hold the ball up while our wingbacks gers make attacking runs upfield and play them through.

Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Vardy for Matic and Willian for Mahrez to bring some more pace on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212.

--------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Sidibe-------------Bailly-----------Ake-------------Caricol
-----------------------------Kondogbia -------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Willian----------------------------------------------------------Perisic
------------------------------------Mkhi------------------------------------
-----------------------Vardy-----------------Gomez--------------------------


Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Mkhi and put on Joe Gomez in CB and play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Willian on for Mahrez and Arnautovic for Perisic to bring some much needed freshness in midfield.

-------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Sidibe-------Bailly--------Ake--------Gomez-------Caricol
-------------------------Matic--------Kondogbia----------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------Willian-----------------------------------------Arnautovic---------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------Gomez----------------------------------------


Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Vardy on for Gomez
Willian on for Mahrez
Cyprien on for Kondogbia
Fresh legs to bring on.

NEWCASTLE 4-3-3

Captain: Luis Suarez
Penalties: Luis Suarez
Corners: Miralem Pjanic
Freekicks: Miralem Pjanic
Crossing Freekick: Miralem Pjanic

—————————— Alisson
Trippier — Hummels — Koulibaly — Rose
————————— Jorginho
—————— Nainggolan — Pjanic
Salah ————————————————— Mane
——————————— Suarez

SUBS: Marquinhos, Milner, Keita, Firmino, Reus, Fekir,


We’ll press the opposition like Liverpool and win the ball as close to their goal as possible or move the ball up the pitch towards the opposition’s goal quickly. My 4-3-3 will overload his midfield and pin back his wing backs. We’ll use the quickness of our one touch, short passing game and using the pace & dribbling ability of the attacking players. However when the opposition get close to our box, we will revert to a defensive block to limit their chances. We defend and attack as a collective unit, limiting the space between the lines in which the opposition plays in.

We will start Jorginho in deep midfield to keep the ball rolling and take advantage of his penetrative passes.

When in attack we will get forward in numbers, using the footballing intelligence & movement of our attacking midfielders & striker to create passing angles and overloads in the opposition’s area of the pitch both out wide and in central zones, looking to drag the opposition’s players out of position and exploiting the space they leave open. When the opposition is using a deep defensive block to shut out our team we will use our fullbacks to create numbers out wide to stretch the opposition (this will be assisted by our CDM splitting the CBs wider allowing the FBs to move up the pitch) simultaneously using our wide-forward to cut inside to create overloads in the central areas giving us a number advantage. When creating chances from the wide areas with the FBs or WFs, we will send crosses in to feed the other forwards. Making runs behind the defence and beyond the striker is not prohibited by our attacking and central midfielders (minus CDM). There is a lot freedom in the movement of our attacking players. No player is restricted to a specific zone on the field or specific task. All four attackers (Pjanic, Salah, Mane, Suarez) will either be provider or finisher with Nainggolan supporting and Jorginho sitting deep in midfield. Shooting from outside the box is encouraged. Our players will also press constantly from the front when we lose possession of the ball.

Offensive & Defensive Transitions:

This is the player's movements & reactions when moving between defence and attack, importantly the movement of the ball as this is arguably the most important aspect of our game. Winning the ball back when your opposition is disorganized is the perfect moment. We will aim for rapid movement up the pitch, with progressive passing to exploit the space left by the opposition. Whether it is from our defensive third of the pitch or whether we have won the ball back in our attacking third of the pitch we will exploit the disorganization of the opposition. We expect most of our attacking play will be as a result of our aggressive high press so we will use the following triggers for pressing the opponent:

1. The ball is played to a player facing his own goal

2. The ball is played to a player against the sidelines (using the sideline as an extra man in our favour)

3. A difficult bouncing ball is played to a player facing his own goal.

When any of these triggers happen, the players closest to the ball will press quickly and another 2 or 3 players will hold off slightly adding depth to the press and closing down their easy option pass. Once we win possession of the ball, we break in numbers again exploiting the opposition with either the pace of our attack. We also understand that we won't always get it right when pressing the opposition so we will employ a 10-second rule on pressing from the front after which, if we did not win back possession, we will revert to our defensive block. If we don’t win the ball after our initial phase of pressing it's imperative that the players work their way back into our defensive zone of the pitch and close the space that the opposition will look to play in. Close the space quickly and look to frustrate the opposition with intelligent positioning and hard tackling before winning the ball back and breaking forward at rapid speed. We will compact the central zones and force the opposition wide which limits the chances of breaking through our midfield. Long diagonal balls and quick releases from deep are encouraged when the opportunity arises. Our forwards have the pace to run onto through-balls.

We go into our defensive block if we cannot win the ball through our pressing. As a team we will defend deep in our half and close the space in the middle of the pitch. When forcing the opposition closer to the touchlines, we will use the touch line as an extra-man and press them so that we can win possession and result in us outnumbering them. If the play is on the left of the field the team will move towards the left and squeeze the space and vice versa on the right. We will try to force our opponents to play hopeful crosses into our box. If a cross is coming from their right our LB will also move into the box to help deal with crosses and vice versa if the cross is coming from the left. The midfielders will be around the box pressing the opponent should they try to play it central. Our wide forwards will help the midfield in closing the space in the centre and then proceed to help the fullback after we have moved the opponent towards the touchline. The wide-forwards are the real work horses in the team and I have 2 very good, hard-working wide-forwards. Our striker will also drop into our half to help the midfield press the opposition’s defence. Also the reasoning behind dropping the striker deep is to draw the opponent’s defence away from their goal creating ample space for us to counter attack.

Substitutions:

If winning after 80 mins bring on Keita for Pjanic. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater defensive cover.

If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Fekir for Pjanic. Fresh creativity and legs.

If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Firmino for Jorginho. Nainggolan will press higher to win the ball back quickly. Firmino with more goal threat, plays up front with Suarez, in a 4-4-2.

Hull City

Overview of our 5-4-1 formation

-----------------------------------Horn
------------Pavard-------------Kempf-------Klostermann
Weiser--------------------------------------------------------------Max
---------------------Eiting-------------------Rakitic
-----Lopes-------------------------------------------------Forsberg
-----------------------------------Selke

Subs: Pollersbeck, Augustinsson, F. de Jong, Kampl, Younes, Zaha, Zivkovic


Our defensive formation will rely heavily on the defensive abilities of our back-five. It consists of five defenders; three central defenders and two full-backs. In midfield, there will be two central midfielders and two wingers, while a lone striker completes the formation.

Stated in very simple terms, there are basically three ways to get past an opposition defence: a team can go around, through or over the top. Our system is designed to stop all those three from happening.

How it works

Our idea is to make it virtually impossible for the opposition to create chances in our defensive-third. Executed properly, it should force our opponents to take their goal attempts from 30-plus yards out, which is far enough for our highly gifted keeper to save most attempts.

Usually, teams have two central defenders but in this system there will is an extra defender who takes care of any loose balls and aerial threats, so attempting to create chances from crosses usually won’t yield anything for the opposition.

Our back-five will have much less distance between the defenders than a back-four, which makes it almost impossible to penetrate through the middle of that line. Since our back-five will drop to the edge of the 18-yard box, any balls played in behind will simply collected by Horn.

Since our defensive line is quite deep, our four midfielders will protect the remainder of the defensive third by seriously pressing for the ball just in front of the back-five.

When attacking, our side will morph into a 3-4-3 formation with our full-backs pushing into midfield to supply width in attacks, leaving three at the back. Our wide midfielders join the centre forward from the flanks, forming a front-three.

Aside from player errors, it is supposed to be almost impossible to score against a side set up in this manner because more than 95 per cent of goals come from the attempts in the final-third and the 5-4-1 formation packs nine outfield players into that third to prevent our opponent from creating any chances in that area.


Like any defensive formation, our players will be required to do a lot of hard work off the ball. Discipline is also essential because unnecessary movements can open up gaps and afford the opposition a chance to score.

Important things that I’ll be looking for are; defensive discipline from my two full backs, in midfield I’ll need Lopes, Eiting, Rakitic and Forsberg to all work incredibly hard, whilst Selke will need to lead the attacks with intelligent movement and impressive ability to break our oppositions’ rhythm by holding the ball up to relieve pressure for his teammates

Subs on 65 mins – I’m expecting great demands from my players so fresh legs about half way through the 2nd half should keep the work levels high

F.de Jong on for Eiting, Kampl on for Rakitic, Zivkovic on for Lopes

—————————Courtois
Fabinho—Christensen—Umtiti——Zinchenko
—————————Torreira
Bernardeschi—Dybala—Milinkovic——Philipp
—————————Morata

Subs: Gunn, Toljan, Gaya, Tielemans, Sabitzer, Sisto, Mariano

Captain: Fabinho
Corners: Fabinho
Penalties: Fabinho
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala/Fabinho

Control the game today, moving the ball quickly to manipulate the opponent. We put heavy emphasis on strong position play, creating positional superiority to overload Everton, particularly in midfield. We build attacks in a 2-3-2-3. Firstly we drop players deep in build up to draw Everton forward, CBs splitting to the edge of the area, and Torreira dropping to the edge of the D, becoming the regista between the first and second lines of the opponents press, either forcing first line back, or drawing the 2nd line forward to create more room behind. Secondly, we bring the FBs infield, both are fantastically versatile players and will largely take up position just ahead of Torreira in the half spaces, this should act to force the opposition press narrow and open up direct routes to the wingers, where we can get the ball forward quickly and they can then combine with the twin 10’s. If Everton’s wingers don’t narrow it means an overload in midfield which will force their deeper midfielders forward and create more space for Dybala and Milinkovic, the latter who can be used as a target man between the lines to beat the press.

As we progress into their half we can continue to transition between 3-2-3-2 and 2-3-2-3, maintaining a strong triangular structure through which we can move our opponents. The inverted FBs are key today as they can widen and narrow as the game plays out, stretching wide to find space to link with the winger, but also maintaining a strong midfield 3 with Torreira through which we dictate play, and allow Dybala and Milinkovic to roam free between the lines. Having two players like Fabinho and Zinchenko who can do this will be essential as both have ability to create from deep, either with crossing or intricate passing, which means that even if their defenders cope with our 10’s, their forwards have to stay switched on to our FBs movement throughout, particularly when they make underlapping runs into the channels. Torreira remains between them at all times to provide the passing option to move the opposition back and forth.

Dybala and Milinkovic have total freedom in attack, they can drift wide and create triangles through which to overload the opposition FBs working with our wingers and FBs, they can drop deep in build up to drag their markers forward and open space behind, and they can push on in support of Morata. Usual tactic will be to build up down one side, have the 10 move towards the wing and open space up for the second 10 infield, as often as possible create 1 v 1’s between our 10s and their deepest midfielders. The front three occupy the opposition back line, the wingers looking to keep the FBs pegged back and keep them in a 1 v 1 battle, keep them pushed back so they can’t help their midfield. Bernardeschi looks to be direct and link up quickly, run at defenders, where as Philipp will look to play between FB and CB and will often be the furthest forward, using his pace to get in behind and into the box to finish chances. Morata is a target in the box but can also drop into the 10 space with Dybala/Milinkovic running beyond him to draw their defence into split second decisions of who to follow.

When we lose it we counterpress with 5 defensive organisers, and 5 hunters. The hunters press immediately, don’t allow the opponents time to decide how they will transition. Man for man pressing in triangles. The CF will look to press the ball side CB, using his cover shadow to block t’other CB, whilst the wingers press the FB/far side CB depending on the side they’re on. Behind them Dybala/Milinkovic pushes onto the deep midfielders, essentially this creates a diamond around the ball allowing us to really squeeze the opponents ball carrier and win it back quickly. It also leaves a midfield 3 and two CBs to form the organisers block, maintaining our control of the midfield. We do this when we lose it and when Everton build from goal kicks. The aim is to win it quickly or hurry them long.

The organisers will be pushed close to our offensive line in order to retain strong vertical compactness to add to the opponents difficulty in playing through us. The 5 create a staggered 2-3 bowl shape, allowing us to form a block around their forwards. This should create a 5 vs 3/4 in our favour meaning that even if a forward gets hold of the ball, we have the numbers around him to win it back quickly, be it from knock downs or a striker looking to use his pace. Focus firstly on blocking passing lanes behind the press, and then squeezing opponents if they get it forward.

When they have sustained possession defend in a 4-2-3-1 with vertical and horizontal compactness, deeper lines looking to force them to play in tight spaces.

Subs:

If Winning: Gaya for Zinchenko 70’. Toljan for Morata 75’, Fabinho into DM and Dybala upfront, 4-3-3. Mariano for Dybala 80’, hard work from the front.

If Drawing: Gaya and Sisto for Zinchenko and Philipp 70’, really target their right side with triple overloads from Gaya, Sisto and Milinkovic. Mariano for Morata 75’.

If Losing: Mariano and Sisto for Torreira and Milinkovic 65’, 4-1-3-2 with Bernardeschi RB and Fabinho into DM. Gaya for Zinchenko 70’.

Tottenham Hotspur v Leicester

——————— Ter Stegan ———————
——————— J.Boateng ———————
- A.Rudiger - Van Dijk - David Luiz -
———— B.Matuidi — A.Vidal ————
A.Robben —— Modric —— A.Martial
———————— M.Icardi ———————

Subs:
McCarthy, Bellerin, Wendell, Florenzi, B.Silva, Balotelli, Batshuayi

Big game against the league leaders and we throw a curve ball by deploying a 1-3-2-3-1 formation. The opposition are a strong side offensively and feel we have the perfect personnel to nullify this in our set up.

By deploying 4 CB’s we create a tight narrow unit, the aim is to defend between the lines of the 18 yard box, keeping the opposition out wide and snuffing out the danger whenever they try to get the ball into our box, be it in the air or on the floor we will always have number a numerical advantage and crucially a covering player to cut out the danger.

This set up also poses a double edged sword, not only does it give us an extremely strong defensive unit but also an additional attacking weapon. Boateng offers an immediate outlet, picking the ball up from deep and spraying it out to the plethora of options ahead of him. We will look to mix up our attacking play, quick passing for the back as we aim to get the ball into our midfield trio to dictate the the game but also the ability to going long and hitting the flanks. We anticipate the opposition playing attacking fullbacks and if so we will look to hit long diagonal balls for Robben and Martial to exploit the space vacated by the fullbacks.

Defence

We anticipate the opposition playing two strikers or possibly even a front three. With four CB’s we feel we can deal with any combination with Van Dijk plus one of Rudiger or Luiz covering the strikers if they play with a front two, the other CB’s offer cover and at all times we keep compact. They will create a strong compact trio shielding our goal and have superb pace and strength, attributes that will be key to shutting down the opposition. In addition we have Boateng sweeping up behind, a fantastic reader of the game with superb pace and dominant in the air he is the perfect all round covering player. He will drift along the back line and offer cover should the opposition attempt to get in behind and in doing so cutting out the passing lanes to our goal. Communication with his German compatriot Ter Stegan in goal will also be key.

Leicester have some fantastic wingers and the aim is to let them have the ball out wide where they can’t hurt us. The danger comes when they look to come infield however they will have no joy whenever they attempt to do so. If they play with inverted wingers force they down them line, don’t engage and get pulled out of position, simply jockey them and force them to try and cross the ball as we will have a clear numerical advantage whenever the ball is played into our box. The same applies to the opposition fullbacks/wingbacks, let them have it on the flanks, remain a tight 4 defending our box and frustrate the opposition whenever they try to come infield. We encourage them to play down the wings as it will enable us to keep our shape in the middle as the only option we give them will be crosses into the box where we anticipate outnumbering their forwards.

Midfield

We deploy a solid experienced trio in the middle of the park and this is a battle we feel confident of winning. Vidal and Matuidi both offer protection to our defence and pose a real physicality, a trait that runs throughout our team as we feel have the strength to bully the opposition and physically overwhelm them. Modric plays in the hole and drifts between the lines. We anticipate Kante playing at DM, Luka therefore has license to drift and in doing so pulling him out of position and away from shielding their defence. In Vidal and Matuidi with have two box to box players and they will push forward into the space created by Modric’s movement. Winning the central midfield battle will be key to winning the game and we look to dominate this area.

Forwards

We deploy a front three when in possession. Martial and Robben are direct threats from the flank, drive at the opposition and take them on when in possession. They have the freedom to cut inside and shoot at any opportunity and both have fantastic pace on the counterattack we look to break at speed. Our players will immediately look for the runs of these two as we look to catch the Leicester fullbacks napping defensively. Icardi through the middle is in the finisher, get on the end of any chances that fall your way and bury them. He has a great supply line and we expect him to get plenty of chances.


Subs 70 mins;

If winning: Robben, Martial and Modric off. Bellerin, Wendell and Florenzi on. 6-3-1 complete shutdown mode. Bellerin and Wendell form fullbacks in a back 6 with Florenzi slotting alongside Vidal and Matuidi in a midfield trio. A solid defensive unit with zero room for the opposition to operate as we see the game out.

If drawing: Robben and Icardi off, B.Silva and Batshuayi on. Bernardo offers a different threat, he has ability to pick a pass and drift between the lines as the game opens up and we quicken our tempo. Batshuayi goes up top, an instinctive finisher that only needs a sniff as we go for the winner.

If losing: Luiz and Matuidi off, B.Silva and Batshuayi. We go all guns blazing with Icardi, Batshuayi, Robben and Martial in a front four. B.Silva and Modric as AM’s ahead of Vidal as we go for goals.

Balanced 4-2-3-1

We go with a 4-2-3-1 effectively but with the wingers slightly deeper, to give us more control in midfield and a stronger defensive structure, we could tell Hazard to get back and defend at a high tempo, but he wouldn’t, so we get him to do what he does. Direct and counter attacking football.

A must win game for us so we don’t drop a place, we look for big performances from our big players in defence and attack who love a big game, create for Ronaldo and he can make the difference.

We look to target Spurs down the wings, our wingers and fbs doubling up to attack. The opposition have strong cms, but they don’t have the same spring in their step they once did so we want to hit them with pace and youthful energy in midfield to get at them.

We defend with two banks of four behind the ball, leave no space, make it difficult for them to create. When we win the ball we attack quickly at pace, hit them before they get back. Attacking down the wings where we feel they are weak and we can get at them.

When we defend the midfield narrows, giving us bodies to the side of the park we are defending. Hazard simply sits on their dm to take away that option. When we win the ball the wingers get wide, stretch the play giving us options and space to move the ball and attack.

Importantly, we have players with different qualities who will always look to be on different lines, never flat, making it easy for us to find a player in space and spread the play. Kante keeping things easy picking up from defence, Koke looking to link the defence and attack. Hazard dropping deep in build-up phase and always looking to find space ahead of the midfield, the fbs getting forward will add a further option.

We go with a natural right footer on the right and left footer on the left to allow us to stretch the game when in possession. Importantly it allows us to hit Spurs on the break even quicker, allows the wingers to play early crosses to Ronaldo or first time through balls for Hazard/Ronaldo to run on to.

In cm, Kante is the dm always guarding the defence. Koke plays as a deep playmaker, using his long ability to put is on the front foot immediately when we win the ball. Koke’s strong defensive work rate and play will also be important in this role.
Romagnoli comes in at the back, he gets the nod for his ability to read the play well, allowing Ramos to get stuck in. Azpi next to them will be more reserved, allowing Marcelo to be the fb that gets forward. If they go two up, Azpi will also offer good cover and tuck in, if at times both forwards sat high and the cbs had to go man for man.


--------------------- Neuer
Azpilicueta - Ramos – Romagnoli - Marcelo
---------------- Kante --- Koke --------------
- Guedes --------------------------- Asensio -
-------------------- Hazard
------------------ C.Ronaldo

Subs. Schmeichel, D.Alves, Ndidi, Can, James, Richarlison, Costa


Strong defensive lines

Control the opposition by pressing the space with a narrow rigid defensive unit, only allowing them to play in areas where they can’t hurt us.

We will be wary of the counter when we lose the ball. We drop into two lines of four, Ronaldo and Hazard look to shut off the passing channels as soon as we lose it allowing the other players to get into shape. Hazard then drops to simply sit on their deepest cm/dm.


In this 4-4-1-1 formation, when the opposition go wide, the winger opposite to play comes narrow, giving us 3 central players and one wide player. Hazard a fourth central player simply sits on their dm, take the option away and be in a position to help us break quickly in between our midfield and Ronaldo.


In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Draw them in to positions where they can’t hurt us, and then try and win the ball back. Then get forward quickly.

Of the 2 cms, Koke seeks to defend diagonally ahead of Kante, pressing the ball, Kante always goal side of Koke. Kante slightly deeper, in a position to sweep in and clean up if they get past the first press. The free wide man can then come inside to help close the ball. This will make it difficult for Spurs to find space, force them to try and play in tight areas.

We don't leave much space between the lines. Two compact lines of four. Always looking to have 9 players behind the ball. Happy to defend deep, we look to get players behind the ball.

Ramos captain. Neuer and Ramos keep the defence and structure tight. Kante does the running of two men cleaning up if any of the others don’t do their job.

Attack.

We will be direct with our attacking play.

Attack down the wings,wingers and fbs doubling up on their fbs/wbs. Get Ronaldo in the box and get balls in the box for him. Hazard has a free role in attack, to drop deep and link with the cms and wingers, but also looks to get ahead of Ronaldo and break beyond their defence when we counter.

By playing with width, we create space for our attackers. Stretch the opposition, so Hazard can find space in between the lines and so both Hazard and Ronaldo can find space to get through on goal.

We are happy for our defenders and Neuer to go long at times.
Quick one-twos in the opposition half going down the lines. We have great pace up top, so want to get them in behind. If not we are happy for our players to take them on.


Subs. If winning after 70 mins bring on Can for Guedes. Fresh power with Can to cm next to Koke. Asensio rw, Hazard lw. 4-3-3. Give us an energy boost in midfield to keep us on top.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Costa for Ronaldo. Costa brings fresh power to bully the tired Spurs cbs. Energy injection.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Richarlison for Asensio. Bring on pure pace, and also hard working.

If drawing after 65 mins bring on James for Guedes. Hazard left, Asensio right. More creativity.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Richarlison for Asensio. Pure pace and power injection
If drawing after 82 mins bring on Costa for Marcelo. 3-5-2. Azpi 3rd cb. We go for the win.

If losing after 55 mins bring on Costa for Marcelo. 3-5-2. Play direct to Costa and Ronaldo. With speed around them to get behind on any loose balls.
If losing after 68 mins bring on James for Guedes. Brings creativity, goals and a great cross.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Richarlison for Asensio. Pure pace and power injection

-----------------------Lloris
Danilo---Manolas—Kompany—Blind
-----------Ramsey-----Goretzka
Callejon--------Barkley---------Costa
-------------------Cavani
Pickford, D. Llorente, Maitland-Niles, M. Llorente, Malcolm, Aspas, Sessegnon

We have reverted to a classic 4-2-3-1 formation for todays game, hoping that we won’t have to be as defensive minded for todays game. This should be a competitive encounter and we hope to play more fluid football than we did against Liverpool and Leicester. We have picked players that are comfortable on the ball, and with an ability to attack with speed and power, but also precision. I will now analyse how each aspect of our eleven will work.
Lloris will act as a sweeper keeper, and will distribute the ball out from the back with short balls to the centre backs or full backs. He will be brave and come off his line when necessary, and use his experience to help marshal the defence, both in positioning and further distribution.
The back four won’t play as a flat line, with Danilo being allowed to bomb forward and contribute to the attacks, offering an overlap to Callejon. When this happens, Blind will push inside and we will play with a back three when that happens, allowing Danilo the time to return back to play as a back four. Kompany will contribute to the same thing as Lloris, using his experience to control the game. Both Kompany and Manolas are capable at distributing from the back and playing short balls out. They will look to spread the ball out wide to Danilo, or to look for either Ramsey or Goretzka in the midfield. Blind won’t contribute too much to attacks. Costa will drop back and look for the short ball for Blind, before then attacking with pace.
Goretzka and Ramsey will serve as the link up between our attack and our defence. Both are comfortable dropping deep to pick up the ball from the defense, before looking to either drive forward in a box to box capacity or look for a pass out wide, to either Danilo or one of the wingers. They can also look forward to find the pass to Barkley, who will be playing a free role in the number ten position, looking to pick up on space and play short one twos with the midfield players, or knock through balls out wide to our pacey attacking wide players. When the opposition have the ball, Ramsey and Goretzka will drop back and sit in front of the defence, cutting out through balls. Barkley will press higher up the pitch, trying to force mistakes amongst the opposition midfield players. When one of our midfield players wins the ball back, we will look to attack quickly, hitting the opponent on the counter, by spreading the ball out wide and allowing our wide players to attack directly with pace.
Callejon and Costa will keep themselves out wide, with Danilo underlapping Callejon. When they pick the ball up they will attack directly, relying on pace to get in behind, before swinging in a mixed variety of balls for Cavani’s head or to his feet. Going wide is what I want them to do when they are on their natural flanks. Occasionally they can switch sides, in which case they will play as inside forwards, cutting inside on their strong feet so that they can bombard the opposition’s goal, and run at the opposition’s centre backs, which should in turn create more space for Cavani and Barkley to exploit. This switching of flanks and styles should cause havoc in the opposition’s back line, as they struggle to get accustomed with one system before we change it up and implement something new.
Cavani will play a pressing game when off the ball, using his strength, energy and experience to charge down the inexperienced backline, meaning that they will either struggle to play out from the back, or that he may force them into an individual error. When we are on the ball, Cavani needs to bully the opposition, and get himself in good positions inside the box, utilising constant movement to achieve this. Again, we look to utilise the energy that he brings in buckets. He may not be the fastest, but we believe that this is made up for by the pace of our two wide players.
Substitutions
If drawing/losing
Ramsey off Aspas on 65 mins
We convert to a classic 4-4-2, with Barkley dropping in alongside Goretzka and Aspas going up front to play off Cavani. Barkley will look to spray balls over the top for Aspas to run on to, and he provides a bit more pace in our attack to get in behind the opposition defence.
Callejon off Malcolm on 70 mins
A straight swap on the right hand side. Malcolm is tricky and capable of going wide or cutting inside. He offers us dynamism and a new threat with more pace introduced.
Costa off Sessegnon on 80 mins
A list throw of the dice by bringing on the direct and pacey Sessegnon to inject new life into our attack, and to try and go a more direct way with more pace and an injection of raw athleticism.
If winning
Ramsey off Maitland-Niles on 65 mins
Fresh legs in the midfield area, with Maitland Niles being introduced to help us put a foot on the ball in the middle. He is gifted in possession and good at getting forward, but also covering, and provides good recovering pace should he need to fill in deeper.
Barkley off M Llorente on 75 mins
Switch from playing with an AM to playing with a DM in an attempt to see out the win.
Cavani off Aspas on 85 mins
An attempt to kill off the game by bringing on more pace up front to hit the opponent on the counter, as they throw more and more men forward.

------------------------ Alex Meret
--------- Alderweireld -- J.Tah ---- Varane
K.Walker ------- Khedira ----- D.Silva -------- Ghoulam
-------------- K.De Bruyne ---- Alexis Sanchez
----------------------- Lewandowski

Subs: Dier, Mendy, Fernandinho, Partey, Verratti, O.Dembele, Mertens

3-4-2-1 - Possession based, in good form and going in with a near full strength side. Dictate the game, playing out from the back with plenty of options on the ball, off the ball when we regain possesion we transition to counter within seconds and hit them hard.

Gone in with a side full of players that will put a shift in down both ends of the pitch, from our attacking trio to Khedira and D.Silva, who will buzz about all game and make their presence felt with# their superior passing and tackling ability.

We don't want to play in congested midfield areas throughout the game, so our quick wing-backs are essential. allow us to play with real width, creating space in the middle and gaps in the opposition defence.

De Bruyne and Alexis Sanchez will be given the flexibility to roam and influence the game as much as possible, we don't want to tie them down to any one position. Pass and move, play off Lewandowski and put real pressure on that Chelsea defence, not a moments rest.

In terms of defensively, we sit slightly deeper to neutralise the pace of their forwards, De Bruyne comes deeper to form a midfield trio and press intensively in central areas, A.Sanchez joining Lewa in attack to press from the front.

3-4-2-1 - Possession based:
It starts from the back. Alex Meret is very able with his hands and feet and should look to find our players in space.

The CB trio are excellent on the ball, very good passing success rates and should look to move the ball into mf quickly. At times collecting short from Meret and getting their heads up, looking for movement from the attackers and attempting diagonal or long balls into feet, using Lewandowski as a target man to bypass their mf.

Alderweireld & Varane should shift slightly wider when on the offense allowing our wing-backs to push up in a bank of 4 in mf.

Khedira & D.Silva, a midfield pair that will provide plenty of energy and will work their socks off for the side to allow others around them to express themselves. They should look to stamp their authority with their work rate and power looking to take a grip on mf and shielding our defence, oppressing the opposition midfielders and covering every blade of grass out there.

When attacking, Khedira sits just infront of the defence and makes himself available for a pass back. A passing outlet if we are being vigorously pressed whilst also allowing us to create space when working the ball around in triangles, also prevent counter attacks.

De Bruyne and Alexis have free roles in attack, at times going wider to support the WG-backs. Sanchez partnering Lewa up top with De Bruyne in behind, or them sitting and dictating/driving from deep to open up the game ahead.

Generally they will look to play inbetween the lines, roaming in the oppositions half and and looking to act as the link between midfield and attack. Picking up pockets of space and using their awareness to dictate the play, never afraid to play a key pass in behind to unlock their defence or drive from deep.

Flanks will be key as we look to expose them in wide areas and create space in midfield.

Two quick & powerful WG-backs in Walker and Ghoulam, need to hug the touchline and provide the width allowing us to stretch the opposition. Always on the move so we can get them in behind and use them as outlets going forward when picking a pass.

Very possession orientated, comfortable playing quick 1-2's and accelerating into space, overlapping often and getting early deliveries into the box for our striker/s to attack.

When Chelsea are in possession we will initially look to press from front with our two strikers (Lewa + Sanchez) and then drop off deeper with men behind the ball if they bypass with a strong block of 5 in midfield.

Don’t allow them to play out from the back and hurry their passes. Our attackers form a duo looking to cut avenues into midfield as one goes to press the ball, force them into tight spots with their backs to goal towards the touchline.

The reason we want our front two to press is to force Chelsea to play long and concede possession, we feel they lack any sort of aerial presence in the side so are less likely to win contested duels.

If they advance we then form a rigid structure looking to press the space and dropping off with men behind the ball, only allowing them to play where we want them too, stifle the midfield and stop them from picking their passes into an attacker, Khedira man-man their AM, looking to harass him and using his physical prowess to really put him off his game, D.Silva and De Bruyne cutting off passing lanes.

Essentially a 3-5-2, 5 in mf working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wing-backs then drop off to mark the oppositions wingers and help our CB's to prevent any space being left in behind.

Key is leaving no gaps or space to get in behind, working as a staunch unit so their quick attackers have to come deeper to get involved making their first point of contact with the ball much deeper than they anticipated and notably further away from our final third.

When we have them deep we have more to work with, we can plug at them and tactically foul in areas that will prevent them from playing with any flow, breaking up the game.

If we manage to win the ball we must immediately look to counter and hit the opposition hard. Walker & Ghoulam can come up to support the play and provide the width. The front 3 burst forward.

Subs:
IF WINNING: 65th minute – (3-4-2-1)
- Verratti > D.Silva
- O.Dembele > A.Sanchez
- Mertens > Lewa (75th min)
Compact 3-4-2-1, Verratti fresh legs in mf, O.Dembele replaces Alexis and looks to get us driving forward with his pace and skill set, Mertens fresh dynamic as CF

IF DRAW: 70th minute – (3-4-3 - wide)
- O.Dembele > De Bruyne
- Verratti > D.Silva
- Mendy > Ghoulam (78th min)
O.Dembele and A.Sanchez look to play as natural wingers in a 3-4-3. Verratti in a deeper role looking to dictate the tempo and work opportunities, Mendy on to stretch the opposition further.

IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- Mertens > Tah
- O.Dembele > D.Silva
- Partey > Khedira
4-4-2, direct. long balls into the box and constantly looking for the two strikers.
Flood forward and look for an equalizer/winner.

C - Lewandowski
FK's - De Bruyne
Corners - De Bruyne/D.Silva
Pens – Lewandowski

Red - A.Sanchez off, 3-5-1
RB/CB - A.Sanchez off/ Dier on
LB - A.Sanchez off/ Mendy on
CM/AM - A.Sanchez off/ Fernandinho on
ST - A.Sanchez off/Mertens on