PORTSMOUTH v Tottenham Hotspur

Injuries: Oxlade-Chamberlain, Sanchez, Arias

-------------------- Ederson
Walker - Van Dijk - Umtiti - Marcelo
---- Koke - Busquets - De Bruyne
-------- Bale - Aguero - Mertens

Subs: Butland, Ghoulam, J Martinez, D Suarez, Mahrez, Lemar, G Jesus

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

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

We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Ederson in goal, Van Dijk and Umtiti at centreback, Walker and Marcelo at fullback, Koke, Busquets and De Bruyne in midfield, Bale and Mertens either side of Aguero upfront.

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

Ederson - 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 Aguero.

Van Dijk/Umtiti - Van Dijk mark their striker, force them high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Umtiti 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. Both of you go forward for setpieces.

Walker/Marcelo - Both of you to force the Tottenham wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Bale and Mertens as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Aguero and link with Koke and De Bruyne. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Busquets - Our DM today, sit in front of the back four, break up play, watch out for runs from deep from the opposition, when in possession use your range of passing to look for teammates in advanced positions, use Koke and De Bruyne alongside you if you're closed down.

Koke/De Bruyne - Two box to box midfielders today, one either side of Busquets at DM. Both of you are required to get back and assist Busquets in front of the back four when we don't have the ball, but both with the ability and the freedom to push forward and join the front three, while always leaving at least one of you behind the ball. Look to link with Bale, Mertens or Aguero.

Bale/Mertens - Both with the trickery to beat the Tottenham fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Aguero with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Koke and De Bruyne, and capitalise on the space Aguero's presence will create for you.

Aguero - you will be expected to occupy the Tottenham 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 Bale or Mertens on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you to create opportunities.

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

Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Mertens, Bale and Aguero off, Mahrez, Lemar and Jesus on. Similar formation, more of a 4-5-1 than a 4-3-3 without the ball, fresh legs to punish our opponents on the counter.

If drawing: Koke off, Mahrez on. Change to 4-4-2, Busquets and De Bruyne in midfield, Mahrez RW, Bale LW, Mertens up top with Aguero. Mertens and Bale interchangeable. Push for the winner.

If losing: Umtiti, Busquets and Mertens off, Mahrez, Lemar and Jesus on. Change to 3-1-4-2, Walker - Van Dijk - Marcelo at the back, Koke the playmaker from deep, Mahrez - De Bruyne - Bale - Lemar behind Aguero and Jesus upfront. Push for goals.

-------------------Buffon
Florenzi----Sokratis----Verthongen----Luis
------------------Locatelli
------------Rabiot-------Kovacic
Sterling----------------------------------Son
-------------------Lacazette
Subs
Strakosha, Inigo, Bertrand, Gylfi, Henderson, Gameiro, Inaki

Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control, they have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance.

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 counters, When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out, they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style.



For the full backs 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.

 Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who to 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.

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. 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, looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the attackers to drag the opposition defensive players out of position. 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. 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 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 - Sterling 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, Hendo and Brozovic flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Rabiot 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. Son 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 draw defenders out of the box.





Free Kicks - Locatelli takes Direct FK's


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 - Henderson for Rabiot and Bertrand for Luis - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Henderson for Locatelli - add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.

If Losing



67 Mins - Gameiro, Inaki and Inigo for Locatelli, Luis and Florenzi - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.

ARSENAL vs Birmingham
--------------------Pickford
Danilo----Manolas----Kompany---Van Aanholt
-------------Herrera-----Goretzka
Malcom--------Fabregas----------Costa
--------------------Cavani
Peacock-Farrell, Maitland-Niles, Sane, Aspas, Martins, Amiri, Giroud
We have set up in a classic 4-2-3-1 for this game, knowing that we come up against a tough Birmingham City side for today. Despite this, I have looked to set up with an attacking side, hoping that we can take advantage of our position as the home team. I am looking to play a system that will see us exploit the pace that we have in the attack by moving the ball into attacking positions quickly and effectively, without relying on long balls forward into Cavani. For that purpose I have seleted two central midfielders who are comfortable on the ball, centre backs capable of playing it out from the back, and full backs who will contribute to the attacking third of the game.
Defensively, I want Pickford, Kompany and Manolas to form a three, with all capable of playing the ball in triangles. We will look to play the ball short to our centre backs from goalkicks, allowing us to start attacks from deep. As we do this, the full backs will push forward into wing back positions, making themselves outlets should we be pressed high up the pitch. The important thing with this system is that we have options so that we aren’t forced into rushed long balls. When the full backs press forward, Goretzka and Herrera will part slightly, allowing for them to cover the vacated spaces easier, but not so much that there is space to exploit in the centre. Kompany and Manolas are also both physically capable so I think they will be able to comfortably deal with long balls or crosses into the box. Goretzka’s role is especially important defensively, as he will be the shield in front of our defence, sitting back and marshalling the area in front of the defence when we push forward as a team. He will look to read the game and prevent attacks before they come, getting into key positions and pressing well. This will take some pressure off the defence. Herrera will do the same, but he is playing a link up role, meaning that he also has to push forward and help the attack when he isn’t contributing defensively and we have possession. I have also limited the amount of attacking that our full backs can do. Both will attack if a good opportunity presents itself, but will avoid being reckless and will be disciplined if that is what is called for.
Offensively I have picked Malcom and Costa on the wings, either side of Fabregas. I am hoping that their energy and drive will make up for Cesc’s ageing legs. Cesc will not be asked to do lots of running, but instead will take a free attacking role and look to find space in the opposition set up. Herrera’s attacking runs from midfield should occupy some of the attention in the opposition midfield, which may allow Cesc some bonus time and space, allowing him to dictate the play and pick the right passes. If not, then some space should be created for Herrera, who can be equally dangerous in a different way. Either way, we should be posing a threat from midfield. Malcom and Costa will look to stay out wide, drawing the defensive line of the opponents further wide, making more space in the middle for our attacking midfielders and our striker. They will then have the ability to use their pace and skill to get in behind or make driving runs inside, causing havoc amongst the defence, and making just the right runs for Fabregas. Should they, or the full back, get out wide, then they should have plenty of options to aim for in the box namely Cavani, who is deadly in the air, or if the ball gets drilled across the penalty area. I will also allow for Malcom and Costa to swap flanks, allowing for further confusion of the opposition. Another threat is posed by the long distance shooting capabilities of Cesc. With Cavani up front I think we have the perfect figurehead. He will make his own runs in behind the defence, looking to stretch the space and exploit the areas created by our wide men. He will also be willing to use his strength and his body to create space and time for players in and around the box.
Another area where I feel we can be strong and have a good chance of scoring is from set pieces. In Fabregas we have one of the best dead ball specialists in world football. Not only is he able to score free kicks, but I am also confident that his delivery can find the aerially dominant Kompany, Manolas, and Cavani, who will be licking their lips at the thoughts of his corners being delivered into the box. This is another reason why our quick players will be an advantage, as they are more likely to be fouled in and around the penalty area.
Substitutions
If winning
Cesc Fabregas off for Salif Sane 65 mins
Switch to three at the back, which should allow for more defensive strength, if sacrificing something going forward.
Malcom off for Gelson Martins 72 mins
Some fresh legs down the flanks may lead to more chances falling our way.
Ander Herrera off for Ainsley Maitland-Niles 78 mins
Fresh legs in the box to box midfielder role in midfield.
If losing/drawing
Cesc Fabregas off for Iago Aspas 65 mins
A bit more energy and directness to the role. Aspas may be not as good on the ball, but he offers something more direct and a higher chance of goals coming from his running.
Danilo and Patrick Van Aanholt off for Salif Sane and Olivier Giroud 75 mins
The switch sees us go three at the back and three up top in a desparate hunt for goals. Giroud has precedent off the bench, and Malcom and Costa will cover defensively.

Bournemouth Cup Tactics (Away to Newcastle)

Captain : Dias
Vice Captain : Musso

--------------------Musso
Emerson---Andersen---Dias---Saracchi
---------Zubeldia-------Bentancur
----------------- Paquetá
Pussetto---------------------------Everton
-------------------Wesley

SUBS: Felipe, Romero, Militão, Cáseres, Zaracho, Cunha, Driussi


SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Zubeldia) who will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Bentancur). In front of them Paquetá will operate as the link between midfield and attack. This I feel will give us a better balanced midfield and while being absolutely defensively sound with 2 ‘sitting’ Bentancur will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Paquetá and attack. I think this set-up lets us link up quickly with our attack while at the same time that little bit of extra cautiousness means it will be easy for us to close the door in midfield with all 3 players as comfortable sitting and breaking up attacks if necessary.
We want to play a nice tidy and crisp passing game. Our aim is to move the ball forward as quickly and as effectively as possible. When we have the ball we will use it wisely and when we don’t have the ball then we will press our opponents all over the park with high urgency to win it back. We want to keep the ball on the deck and attack as a team and equally as important defend as a team. This team is bursting with pace. We will utilise that to our advantage and make the pitch wide and use our flying wingers to cause all sorts of mayhem. It will also be a tool that we use to hit opponents on the counter where we know we can out pace any team.
Goalkeeper: Musso is a big mobile keeper and very agile. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: We will operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Zubeldia). He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Bentancur). He has a more conservative role this week and while being a little more constrained than normal he will still have the opportunity to bomb forward when the time is right. They will both have to put a defensive shift in and both are very strong in the tackle. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition. In front of them Paquetá will operate as the link between midfield and attack.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Pussetto and Everton will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring De Paquetá, Bentancur and Wesley in to play. They can vary their attacks as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Bentancur may sit a bit deeper allowing Paquetá to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF.
As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Wesley starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great playing off the shoulder of the last man he is deadly in and around the box. A bag of energy and very strong we will also look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his lightning pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Paquetá, Everton or Pussetto with Andersen, Dias, Zubeldia and Wesley to offer an aerial threat. Paquetá and Everton (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.

Substitutions: (75 mins) If winning (and comfortable) then 3 like for like subs – Romero for Andersen, Cáseres for Zubeldia and Driussi for Wesley.
If losing (70 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Bentancur with Driussi and Pussetto with Cunha. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
--------------Zubeldia
Cunha------Paquetá-----Everton
--------Driussi -----Wesley

Aston Villa v Tottenham Hotspur (Cup)

------------------------- Courtois --------------------------
Cancelo ------- Skriniar ----- Koulibaly --- Hernandez
------------ Fernandinho ----- Arthur.M -----------------
O.Dembele ---------- M.Asensio ------------- A.Martial
----------------------- Aubameyang ----------------------

Subs:
Hart, Lenglet, Vrsaljko, Partey, Under, Haller, Werner

Captain: Fernandinho
Free Kicks: Asensio
Penalties: Aubameyang
Corners: Asensio

Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim for 3 points. Our three AM’s in support of Aubameyang will be key components of this style as we feel we pose threats from all angles with plenty of goals in our lineup. Fernandinho and Arthur offer great quality on the ball from a slightly deeper position as they both possess a fantastic range of passing, able to break the lines and play that killer pass in to our attacking quartet. We will look to dictate the play and frustrate the opposition when in possession, continually moving them around, making them chase the ball by switching flanks. In doing so we will not only be wearing them down but also continually pulling them out of shape, breaking down their defensive structure as we look to make numerous openings as we go for goals in today’s match up.

Whilst the opposition have some dangerous players we will look to significantly limit their impact by retaining possession, we will force them to track back or risk leaving their defence exposed when we push forward in numbers. We aim to make things uncomfortable for them and we feel that limiting their ability to have the ball in attacking areas will severely limit any threat posed. When they are in possession our wingers drop in as we play a compact 4-5-1 formation. The aim of the game will be to break at speed with our front four offering an immediate outlet when we win back possession. Turning defence into attack in the blink of an eye.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with experience and quality we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. We have two strong and aerially imposing CB’s to deal with the threat posed by their forwards. We will look to be dominant at the back as we aim to take the sting out of the opposition early on and play on the front foot. Our fullbacks have license to push forward when in possession, however one at a time. They will look to be more conservative as usual as with a solid defensive unit. We look to draw the opposition onto us, with their attack minded wingers and fullbacks we feel we can exploit the space they leave behind and hit them with devastating effect on the counter with the pace and directness of our forwards.

If the opposition play one up top then Koulibaly will mark. A man mountain at the back, strong, pacy and aggressive we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Skriniar will sweep up and cover in behind, a fantastic reader at the back he will also be the one to bring the ball out from defence. Nothing fancy just look to get the ball into the feet of our CM’s or the runs of our wide men who will look to do all the damage.

Midfield:

Fernandinho will control the midfield and offer additional protection through the middle, sitting alongside Arthur he will be key to our style of play with their quick passing. Keep the ball moving, continually recycling possession and making the opposition chase shadows. Don’t force the issue as we aim to run them down, tired legs leads to tired minds and we feel that this will lead to plenty of openings as we continually move them out of shape. Forming a double pivot in front of our defence they not only offer protection but form the first line of our attack. Look for the early runs of the wide players as they possess electric pace and will be looking to get in behind the oppositions defence at all times. Fernandinho will look to break down the oppositions attack and recover the ball to set us up on a quick counter. Arthur will control the tempo, a gifted technician we feel that he dovetails well alongside our DM to form a perfectly balanced Brazilian duo.

Forwards:

We go with a devastating front four as we attack the opposition with pace and directness. The beauty of the four are that they are interchangeable and almost impossible to mark. Asensio plays through the middle as an AM, we feel his pace through the middle will be a mismatch for the opposition. He has license to shoot from distance and possess a thunderbolt of a strike. He also has license to switch to either flank as we interchange throughout the game.

We play a fluid front 4 with Martial starting on the LW yet having license to play centrally. Aubameyang plays as a central striker yet has license to switch to either flank with Martial or Dembele moving up top. Asensio plays through the middle yet can switch to either flank at any given moment. O.Dembele is equally adept at playing in any of the front 4 positions. In short, this dynamic foursome create a tactical nightmare for the opposition as they can interchange positions at any given moment, pulling the opposition defenders out of place and creating space for our forwards to run into.

One thing our front four all possess in abundance is PACE and we look to use this to devastating effect. Don’t be afraid to take the opposition on, draw in defenders before popping the ball off to a teammate in space, at all times looking for that killer ball in behind for a clean run on goal. If the opposition sit deep we have three fantastic dribblers in Ousmane, Asensio and Martial who are all capable of operating in tight spaces and breaking between the lines. With Fernandinho and Arthur sitting in and shielding the defence our front four all have license to go at the opposition as we go for goals.

Subs;

If winning:
65 mins: Arthur off, Partey on.
75 mins: Asensio off, Lenglet on. 5-4-1 shut up shop time as we tighten up with a solid defensive unit as we see the game out and take the 3 points.

If drawing:
60 mins: Arthur off, Under on. 4-1-4-1 with Fernandinho at DM and an attacking quartet behind Aubameyang.
75 mins: Asensio off, Werner on. We move to 4-2-2-2 with a front two of Aubameyang and Werner as we go for a winner.

If losing:
55 mins: Arthur off, Werner on.
65 mins: Hernandez and Cancelo off, Haller and Under on. We revert to 3-4-3 with Fernandinho dropping into defence and Aubameyang, Werner and Martial up top as we go for goals, goals, goals.

Leicester v HULL (Cup)

---------------------Pavlenka
Aurier---Walukiewicz----Aké---Angeliño
--------------Grillitsch------Kampl
Traoré------------Neuhaus---------Brekalo
-----------------------Jovic

Subs: Müller, Lazaro, Wober, Lobotka, McNeil, González, Mitrovic

Our defensive unit consists of Sebastian Walukiewicz and Nathan Aké paired up at centre-back, Serge Aurier at right-back and Angeliño at left-back, with Florian Grillitsch and Kevin Kampl as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Grillitsch and Kampl we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.

The strength of our double pivot is that Kampl can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Grillitsch can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.

Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.

Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Kampl’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.

With Kampl running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Florian Grillitsch.

A holding midfielder through and through, Grillitsch is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Grillitsch such a talent.

The attacking unit consists of Bertrand Traoré, Florian Neuhaus and Josip Brekalo as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luka Jovic as our lone central striker.

Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.

In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.

Once we have won the ball back, often by Grillitsch or Kampl, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.

Aurier and Angeliño can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Grillitsch and Kampl can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Bertrand Traoré and Josip Brekalo, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box.

Neuhaus lines up as our “Raumdeuter” (space-interpreter), who will use his distinct and unorthodox technique to find spaces between the lines. Neuhaus is an intuitive and instinctive player who will nearly always play a perfect pass and make a perfect run.

His space-interpreting ability will be reflected in the spaces he picks up his assists from, often behind our opposition’s midfield and ahead of their defence, able to play a perfect pass forward and pick the right spot in the blink of an eye.

We’ve tweaked our philosophy to involve Neuhaus so as to have as little as possible to do in terms of build-up of play and do what he is best at: find space, interpret play and be two steps ahead of our opposition by using his finest tool, anticipation.

Perhaps the deadliest asset Neuhaus possesses is his work without the ball, to get into good scoring positions or to put his teammates in good scoring positions.

Neuhaus’s movement is different from all others. He’ll interpret space and form cohesion with his intelligent running and inhuman anticipatory skills and as a result, Jovic, Traoré and Brekalo will benefit. Neuhaus isn’t our flashiest player or doesn’t seem the most dangerous but once a keen eye is kept on him, his true expertise will be known.

Another highly noticeable attribute of a Neuhaus’s game is his link-up play. Neuhaus will make runs and movement to support Traoré, Brekalo and Jovic with ease, mostly with one or two touch football and that will adequately support his teammates and vice versa.

Neuhaus is aware with his running and of the surroundings near him that will help attacking moves. With our full-backs, this sort of movement will influence their own overlapping runs, and as with our forwards, they can get into good goal scoring positions. Neuhaus will make himself readily available to teammates and without the intention, provide much more help in the build-up of attacking play than they notice.

Jovic will hold up play as an outlet to play others in and provide layoffs in the final third, but he will also make well-timed runs in behind against high defensive lines. He will be especially gifted at receiving the ball in this match, and Jovic will often manipulate his body position to create an opportune angle even if he has his back turned to goal.

Jovic’s innovation in front of goal will also be a useful trait because he will manage to adjust his body to make best use of the crosses from free kicks and corners even if they come in slightly behind him. The power and precision of his shots will make him a deadly finisher in and around the box. He will also link up well Traoré, Neuhaus and Brekalo through his quick footwork.

Subs on 75 mins
Mitrovic on for Jovic and González on for Traoré

Like for like changes; Mitrovic and González should trouble any tiresome legs in the oppositions defence as we push for a late goal regardless of the result.

------------------------- Oblak -----------------------
E.Hysaj ------ Varane ------ Romag ------ Sandro
-------------- M.Pjanic ------ de Jong --------------
Mbappe -------------- Pogba -------------- Neymar
-------------------- Lewandowski --------------------

Meret, Tousart, Aouar, Zaniolo, Chiesa, Thorgan, Kluivert

Possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, Pjanic, de Jong and Pogba just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and the front 3 in and around the half way line, Lewandowski slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow us to dictate play, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.

Romagnoli picks up the CF, Varane spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly when we have possession, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, fullbacks must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks 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. When they attack, only one at a time, as to not let ourselves be exposed, they drive down the line in support of the wingers. the two always make themselves available to the wingers. If either get caught up field I want de Jong to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover I want both Romag and Varane to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and de Jong sitting back.

In the centre of the pitch are Pjanic, de Jong and Pogba. de Jong our deepest player sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, Pjanic and Pogba must be disciplined and lend a hand to stop them coming through. de Jong must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. Pjanic slightly higher up the pitch, he will stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, make our midfield very difficult to pass through, protect our defence and de Jong as best as possible and again in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Pogba as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Pogba is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, I want him higher up the pitch today so as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in an advanced No.10 role and look for the Pjanic/de Jong pass. he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.

Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Neymar will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Pogba to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Lewandowski who can beat any defender and the other winger (Neymar or Mbappe) who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Lewandowski who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack. We are quick up front so when we hit the Everton defence they will struggle to cope especially as the game comes to the last 10/15ins as defenders tire with the movement and the pace we do it at

Captain - Varane
Pens - Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Free Kicks - Neymar or Pjanic

Losing
65 Mins - Hysaj and Sandro off, Thorgan and Chiesa on, de Jong go to RCB in a 3 man defence, Chiesa to RW, Thorgan to LW with Mbappe and Neymar either side of Lewandowski in an attacking 343
75 Mins - Zaniolo for Lewandowski, he goes into a No.10 roll with Neymar and Mbappe going as a central two up top, Zaniolo can use his height to flick it on or at feet look to play them both in and use their pace

Winning -
75 Mins - Tousart for de Jong, he goes into a proper DM role behind Pogba and Pjanic in a 4141 formation
80 Mins - Chiesa for Lewandowski, Mbappe up top and Chiesa to the right

Drawing -
70 Mins - Chiesa for Lewandowski, he goes to the right, Mbappe up top
75 Mins - Thorgan for Pogba, he goes to the left and Neymar up top in a 442

-------------------- Cillessen ----------------------
Mukiele --- N.Elvedi --- Zagadou --- Henrichs
-------------- N'Zonzi ---- Matuidi ---------------
L.Moura ------------ Mata ------------ K.Coman
--------------------- Lukaku -----------------------

Muric, Vidal, T.Adams, Mandzukic, Fekir, Fraser, Alcacer

Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team with two banks of four and Mata and Lukaku harassing the backline and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially N'Zonzi, Matuidi and Mata as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards.

Mukiele and Henrichs 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 Mata and Lukaku. They look to play one twos with the midfield which will get him 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.. Elvedi the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Zagadou alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, bot very powerful 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. Both up for corners, fullbacks and Matuidi 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 CBs 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..

N'Zonzi'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, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him.

Matuidi 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. Mata's main responsibility is to both create chances for the three attackers in front of him and indeed score the goals himself. He will often find himself the furthest forward of the three midfielders and sometimes even in the number 9 role if the correct situation arises. The main requirement of Mata 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.

Wingers 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 Matuidi/Mata to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using Mata to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Lukaku so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.Lukaku will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to bully the slower/weaker of the two/three with the aid of Mata and the wingers and sometimes the fullbacks. 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/weaker 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 and Coman will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side if he cant go for goal himself. But especially look for Mata/Matuidi as they time their runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.

We must defend as a team tho, from the front, so wingers track back and cover the fullbacks, even just to stop them supporting the wingers, we must drive into them and pressurize them into mistakes

Captain - Matuidi
Pens - Lukaku
FK's - Mata
Corners - Wingers

Subs:-

Losing
70 Mins - Alcacer and Fraser for Mata and Coman, we go 4-4-2 and look for the wingers to get the ball whipped in for the front two
80 Mins - Fekir for Henrichs, Mukiele to RCB and Fekir into aNo.10 role 3412

Winning -
75 Mins - Vidal for Mata, he drops back into a 3 man midfield to the right of N'Zonzi
80 Mins - Fekir for Lukaku, will drop back and harass players

Drawing
65 Mins - Fekir for Mata, Fraser for Coman
75 Mins - Alcacer for Lukaku

ASTON VILLA vs spurs - cup

------------------------------De Gea-------------
Sidibe-------Bonucci--------Chiellini-----------Max
-------------------Neves-----------Carvalho-----------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Pepe----------------------Ziyech-------------------Rashford
-----------------------------Icardi-----------------------------------

Subs - Letica, Blind, Barella, Guerreiro, Rebic, Willian, Morata

Playing the 4231 formation which is a nicely balanced formation. The tactic will be to use our pacy wingers to attack down the wings and create chances from there.

DEFENCE
De Gea will command the area when there's any high balks into the box. Punch the ball away 7 you can't catch it and play the ball out quickly to hit the oppo on the counter. Bonucci and Chiellini are 2 experienced heads in the centre of defence. Look to use all your knowledge to shut the oppo attack down. Chiellini to mark main striker and Bonucci to mark any other runners. Sidibe and Max will look to make sure they don't get beaten by the oppo wingers. Be vary of what the oppo winger likes to do aka if they like to cut in onto their stronger foot etc and try and stop them from doing that. Carvalho will help you double up against the oppo wingers aswell.

ATTACK
Neves will be the link in the middle between defence and attack. Dribble the ball out from deep and look for the runs of our front 4 attackers and play penetrating balls to them. Pepe will look to cut in onto his stronger left foot and I want him to shoot from distance if he sees a chance to. When not in possession of the ball I want him to stick close to the oppo fullbacks and look to beat the offside trap. Likewise with Rashford. Ziyech will be the playmaker in the final third and will look to use his expert dribbling ability to create chances for our team. Play quick passes and keep moving so the oppo find it hard to mark you. Icardi will be the main goal threat for the team. He is very dangerous in the air and I want him to use his aerial abillity to score headers for us. I want our fullbacks to whip some great deliveries into the box for him. He's also a threat in the 6 yard area and I want him to use his attacking prowess to get in front of the oppo defenders to find space to get a shot in goal.

Subs if LOSING BY 70MINS
Rebic on Carvalho off. Pepe goes in strike and Rebic goes RW.

Subs if DRAWING BY 70 MINS
Barella on Carvalho off
Willian on Pepe off
Morata on Icardi off

High tempo attacking 4-3-3

We look to play our usual attacking game and take the game to Brum, controlling possession and the tempo of the game. Control possession and find space in between the opposition lines. Get Modric on the ball and looking to play killer balls to open up the opposition using the pace of our attacking players.

Key to our attack is quick passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly. Pass and move. Tire the opposition out physically and mentally with our possession and high tempo play. Predominantly short passing on the deck, but varying our play when a counter is on.

As you'd expect, possession starts at the back, Ramos the man marker next to Laporte who is free. In midfield, Casemiro reading the play looking to win the ball back as the dm alwatys staying back and offering cover, Modric and Ceballos will offer inteligence defensively, with the pressing of Ceballosin high areas also improtant.

Get Modric on the ball and get pushing up the pitch, let him pick the passes. But we also have great pace, so mix it up going through or over the top to expose the space behind them. Quick one twos between the two and the attacking trio and Mendy and Carvajal always looking to provide an option.

The defence will be patient on the ball, will be hugely important in keeping possession and pushing us up the pitch. Playing a reasonably high line, with good pace at the back and energy in front. As soon as we get the ball to our midfield, we look to move the ball quickly, quick passing and moving.

In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Brum. Get the fbs attacking. One bombing forward the other fb remains a little more reserved offering option to go back and switch play.

Hazard has a free role in attack, with Mendy offering width on the left. On the right, Sane stays wide stretching the game looking to take on their lb.


------------------- Neuer
Carvajal- S.Ramos - Laporte - B.Mendy
---------------- Casemiro
----------- Modric ---- Ceballos
L.Sane ----------------------------- Hazard
----------------- Ronaldo

Subs. Schmeichel, J.Gomez, Ascaibar, Tolisso, A.Correa, Coutinho, Belotti

Defending in numbers

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.

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.

As Brum advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1. Our wingers will track any forward runs made by their fbs, and Casemiro presses the space in front of our cbs, sweeping up danger in front of the defence, the cms pressing their midfield.

In this tight formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Casemiro will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, getting across to cut out any danger. Ceballos picks up the most advanced cm. The winger opposite play comes inside and sits on their deepest cm while Modric presses the space next to and in front of Casemiro. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.

Attack.

Get the ball out wide, Modric dictating the play. The trio's movement will be key in opening up the opposition defence.

The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game. We look to find space between their defence and midfield, committing defenders from there and playing killer balls.

We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Modric, Ceballos and the wingers will always be looking for the killer ball. If it is not on, we are happy to keep the ball moving and keep possession.

Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Tolisso for Modric fresh legs and stronger defensively.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Ascaibar for Ceballos. Fresh legs in midfield.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Correa for Sane. Fresh legs and high tempo.

If drawing after 70 mins bring on Coutinho for Modric. Super sub. 4-2-3-1. Hazard behind Ronaldo, Sane and Correa wide. Higher tempo.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Tolisso for Casemiro. More creativity.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Correa for Sane. Super sub.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Gomez and Coutinho for Mendy and Carvajal. 3-6-1. Sane left, Correa right, Hazard just off Ronaldo in a free role.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Tolisso for Casemiro.

Newcastle Cup

NEWCASTLE 4-3-3

______________Chesney
Bissaka____Alder___Holding___Rose
_______________Witsel
_____________Alli____Winks
James___________Costa___________Mane

SUBS: Salah, Milner, Reus, Godin, Kante, Verratti, Bobby

Captain: Toby Alderweireld
Penalties: Diego Costa
Corners: James Rodriguez
Freekicks: James Rodriguez
Crossing Freekick: James Rodriguez

The formation deployed today is so that we gain as much control as possible higher up he pitch. We expect to have more of the ball so patience is key. We also expect the four behind the striker to drift around a bit, getting into positions where their natural play can cause damage. The striker up front presses when we don’t have the ball and the entire team will support him cut passing lanes to help win the ball higher up. The quality of our players will allow us to break through the oppositions press. When we have the ball we will want to attract the press and use the spaces that they open up to attack.

Full backs will get forward when the opportunity arises. Our full backs are good at feeding our forward line with their ability on the ball and we aim to utilize that with their ability to get up the pitch and tactical arareness. We also need our full backs to widen the pitch for us. Our centre halves are good on the ball, and a long punt every now and then to utilize our pace out wide is encouraged. Our right back will also tuck in to help solidify the team.

The regista will drop in to form a back three so that the centre backs can split wide to push the full backs general position higher up in line with the midfielders (and wide forwards engage their back line along with the striker). In doing so we create a four man midfield to overpower their midfield. This will allow our midfield to be flexible, if one of their midfielders steps forward, one of ours will move into the space they vacated. The regista will be the link between our defence and midfield and because of the way he plays, he will draw the opponents forward towards him to attack the ball, pulling their team’s lines apart. This will create more spaces between the lines for our midfield and forward lines to move into. The right centre mid will be the more defensive one in his box to box role, closing down space and cutting passing lanes with his incredible interception ability. Playing alongside the regista will give him less areas of the pitch to cover, and shorter distance needed to win the ball back to start the next attack. Both centre mids will float between the lines during the attacking phase just behind our forwards.

By having our wide forwards up front when we have the ball it will effectively create space out wide. We would expect our full backs to sometimes go infield to collect the ball from the keeper, while one of the midfielders goes wide so when he receives the ball he will have time to look up and pick passes as the opposition midfield will be reluctant to press which will leave a man free in midfield. This can be done by a midfielder too, dropping deep to create a free man in the first line with time on the ball, ping it straight to the striker who can lay it off to the other onrushing midfielder.

If short passing options aren’t available the passing range and accuracy of our keeper will safely transfer the ball forwards via our full backs, wherever they are on the pitch. The keeper can also dink the ball into space for the striker or wide forward to control taking out 6 or 7 opposition players in the process.

The striker’s main role will be to create space for the wide forwards. He will drop deep into a ten to drag defenders out and create space for our wide forwards to run into. This will tie into our quick short passing which is aimed at dragging their players out of position and create space between their lines. Our team will always recycle the ball back to the regista to keep possession and to keep the ball moving.

When we don’t have the ball we will expect our four behind the striker to drop into a 4-5-1 in support of our regista and right centre mid. We will also create triangles to trap the opposition players that have the ball, cutting the passing lanes and others putting pressure on players that might receive the ball. We stop the oppositions rhythm and force them into mistakes with our pressure. To stop their counter attacks after we lose the ball, three players will swarm the ball carrier before he can get his head up to play. If they beat the immediate press when the team’s main goal is to push their play wide where they can do the least damage. Our midfielders are an integral part to our play, when we win the ball back we will create space and time for them with our team shape. There will be times when we are under the cosh and will have the option of deploying a bowl shaped 5 at the back, with the right centre mid dropping in to make closing down the opponents very effective.

Subs

70 mins: Milner comes on for Winks, our legs will start to tire, so will theirs, Milner will add box to box ability and energy late in the game.

75 mins: Bobby comes on for Costa, a different style of forward play for the opposition to think about.

If winning 80 mins: Kante comes on for Witsel to close out the game.

If losing/drawing 80 mins: Reus comes on for Witsel and play 2 up front.

Wolves v PORTSMOUTH

Injuries: Reed, Busquets, Ederson, De Bruyne

----------------- Butland
Walker - Van Dijk - Umtiti - Marcelo
---------- Koke - J Martinez
Mahrez ---------------------------- Bale
----------- Aguero - G Jesus

Subs: Ghoulam, Otamendi, Oxlade-Chamberlain, D Suarez, Lemar, A Sanchez, Mertens

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

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

We are playing a 4-2-2-2 today, Butland in goal, Van Dijk and Umtiti at centreback, Walker and Marcelo at fullback, Koke and Javi Martinez in midfield, Mahrez and Bale either side of Aguero and Jesus upfront.

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

Butland - 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 Aguero or Jesus.

Van Dijk/Umtiti - Van Dijk mark their striker, force them high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Umtiti 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. Both of you go forward for setpieces.

Walker/Marcelo - Both of you to force the Wolves wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Bale and Mahrez as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Aguero/Jesus and link with Koke. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Javi Martinez - Our DM today, sit in front of the back four, break up play, watch out for runs from deep from the opposition, when in possession use your range of passing to look for teammates in advanced positions, use Koke alongside you if you're closed down.

Koke - Box to box midfielder today, alongside Javi Martinez at DM. You are required to get back and assist Martinez in front of the back four when we don't have the ball, but both with the ability and the freedom to push forward and join the front four, while always leaving at least one of you behind the ball. Look to link with Bale, Mahrez, Jesus or Aguero.

Mahrez/Bale - Both with the trickery to beat the Wolves fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Aguero and Jesus with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Koke, and capitalise on the space Aguero and Jesus will create for you.

Aguero/Jesus - you will be expected to occupy the Wolves 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 Bale or Mahrez on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you to create opportunities.

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

Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Jesus off, Oxlade-Chamberlain on. Change to a 4-5-1, Ox into midfield with Koke and Martinez, Bale and Mahrez into wide midfield roles. Absorb pressure and hit on the break.

If drawing: Jesus and Mahrez off, Mertens and Lemar on. Mertens up top with Aguero, Lemar to LW, Bale across to RW. Fresh ideas to get the winner.

If losing: Umtiti and Martinez off, Lemar and Mertens on. Change to 3-1-4-2, Walker - Van Dijk - Marcelo at the back, Koke the playmaker from deep, Mahrez - Bale - Lemar - Mertens behind Aguero and Jesus upfront. Push for goals.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v Portsmouth

Injuries: Khedira, Vitolo, Di Maria, Ozil

-------------- Arrizabalaga
Hakimi - Barzagli - D Luiz - Wendell
---- Rakitic - Diawara - Gundogan
--- Arnautovic - Immobile - Perisic

Subs: Leno, Tah, Maffeo, Sturaro, Hamsik, Januzaj, Vardy

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

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

We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Arrizabalaga in goal, Barzagli and David Luiz at centreback, Hakimi and Wendell at fullback, Rakitic, Diawara and Gundogan in midfield, Arnautovic and Perisic either side of Immobile upfront.

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

Arrizabalaga - 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 Immobile.

Barzagli/Luiz - Luiz mark their striker, force them high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Barzagli 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. Both of you go forward for setpieces.

Hakimi/Wendell - Both of you to force the Portsmouth wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Arnautovic and Perisic as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Immobile and link with Rakitic and Gundogan. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Diawara - Our DM today, sit in front of the back four, break up play, watch out for runs from deep from the opposition, when in possession use your range of passing to look for teammates in advanced positions, use Rakitic and Gundogan alongside you if you're closed down.

Rakitic/Gundogan - Two box to box midfielders today, one either side of Diawara at DM. Both of you are required to get back and assist Diawara in front of the back four when we don't have the ball, but both with the ability and the freedom to push forward and join the front three, while always leaving at least one of you behind the ball. Look to link with Arnautovic, Perisic or Immobile.

Arnautovic/Perisic - Both with the trickery to beat the Portsmouth fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Immobile with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Rakitic and Gundogan, and capitalise on the space Immobile's presence will create for you.

Immobile - you will be expected to occupy the Portsmouth 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 Arnautovic or Perisic on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you to create opportunities.

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

Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Immobile off, Sturaro on. Change to 4-5-1, Sturaro to RM, Perisic to LM, Arnautovic the lone striker.

If drawing: Diawara off, Hamsik on. Switch to a 4-2-3-1, Rakitic and Gundogan in midfield, Hamsik to AM behind Immobile. Try and find a winner.

If losing: Luiz and Diawara off, Hamsik and Vardy on. 3-1-3-3, Hakimi - Barzagli - Wendell at the back, Rakitic the playmaker from deep, Hamsik - Gundogan - Perisic behind Arnautovic - Immobile - Vardy upfront. Push for goals.

------------------------ Oblak ------------------------
E.Hysaj ------ Stones ------ Varane ------ Sandro
-------------- Fabinho ------- M.Pjanic -------------
Mbappe -------------- Pogba -------------- Neymar
-------------------- Lewandowski -------------------

Meret, de Jong, Aouar, Zaniolo, Thorgan, Chiesa, Gnabry

Possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, Pjanic, Fabinho and Pogba just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and the front 3 in and around the half way line, Lewandowski slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow us to dictate play, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.

Varane picks up the CF, Stones spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly when we have possession, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, fullbacks must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks 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. When they attack, only one at a time, as to not let ourselves be exposed, they drive down the line in support of the wingers. the two always make themselves available to the wingers. If either get caught up field I want Fabinho to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. I want both Stones and Varane to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Fabinho sitting back.

In the centre of the pitch are Pjanic, Fabinho and Pogba. Fabinho our deepest player sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, Pjanic and Pogba have to be disciplined and lend a hand to stop them coming through. Fabinho must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. Pjanic slightly higher up the pitch, he will stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, make our midfield very difficult to pass through, protect our defence and Fabinho as best as possible and again in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Pogba as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Pogba is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, I want him higher up the pitch today so as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in an advanced No.10 role and look for the Pjanic/Fabinho/CB pass. he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.

Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Neymar will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Pogba to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Lewandowski who can beat any defender and the other winger (Neymar or Mbappe) who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Lewandowski who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack. We are quick up front so when we hit the Leicester defence they will struggle to cope especially as the game comes to the last 10/15ins as defenders tire with the movement and the pace we do it at

Captain - Varane
Pens - Neymar
Corners - Pjanic/Aouar
Free Kicks - Neymar or Pjanic

Subs:-
Losing -
65 mins, Fabinho will drop into CB and Hysaj/Sandro push on as wingbacks/midfielders - 3412 with Neymar in a free role
75 Mins - We will have to go for it, Chiesa for Hysaj and Thorgan for Sandro 343 Attacking, Mbappe/Neymar either side of Lewandowski
82 Mins - Zaniolo for Lewandowski, the youngster is very good in the air so he goes right up top as we start going high to him for knock downs/flick ons for Mbappe, Neymar and the wingers, Mbappe and Neymar wil go central attack and Zaniolo just off them

If this goes to ET then Fabinho to RB and Thorgan will have to be a make shift LB in a 4231, Thorgan will be fresh so will be able to track the winger

Winning -
75 Mins - de Jong for Pogba, he drops into midfield beside Pjanic and Fabinho sits in front of the defence
82 Mins - Chiesa for Lewandowski, Mbappe goes up top and Chiesa to RW
87 Mins - Aouar for Pjanic, told to control the midfield

Drawing -
75 Mins - Zaniolo for Pogba, fresh legs in that role, we can mix it by going high to him, Chiesa for Lewandowski, Chiesa to RW and Mbappe up front, he and Zaniolo both quick and fresh and have pace and power
85 Mins - Aouar for Pjanic, 5/6 mins to open them up

Pens (depends whos on the pitch)
Mbappe
Neymar
Pjanic
Lewandowski
Chiesa
Thorgan
de Jong
Zaniolo
Sandro

Total football 4-3-3

Cup final day and we look to play our usual attacking game and take the game to Chelsea. Build from the back on our strong defence, and use our quality in attack to simply score more than them.

A quick and high tempo game centred around dominating possession and dictating the game. Our midfield trio can dominate possession and we can get in between the lines against them.

We move the ball quickly and off it we have great pace to manipulate the opposition defence and create space. Seamless interchanging of positions in attack, and relentless pressing in our own half when defending. Attacking at pace down the wings.

Everyone attacks, everyone defends. Well everyone attacks bar the cbs. Pure pace in our front four, with Ceballos advancing to play off the forwards in possession. Rodri the deepest of the trio, recylcing and spreading the play, Thiago the playmaker, linking the defence and midfield and getting forward to link the midfield and attack.

Key to our attack is quick passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly. Pass and move. Tire the opposition out physically and mentally with our possession and high tempo play. Predominantly short passing on the deck, but varying our play when a counter is on.

As you'd expect, possession starts at the back, Ramos the man marker next to Laporte who is free. In midfield, Rodri reading the play looking to win the ball back as the dm always in a position to get back and offering cover, Thiago and Ceballos will offer inteligence defensively, and more importantly high work rate and fantastic pressing.

Get Thiago on the ball and get pushing up the pitch, let him pick the passes. But we also have great pace, so mix it up going through or over the top to expose the space behind them. Quick one twos between the two and the attacking trio and Mendy and Carvajal always looking to provide an option.

The defence will be patient on the ball, will be hugely important in keeping possession and pushing us up the pitch. Playing a reasonably high line, with good pace at the back and energy in front. As soon as we get the ball to our midfield, we look to move the ball quickly, quick passing and moving.

In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Chelsea. Get the fbs attacking. One bombing forward the other fb remains a little more reserved offering option to go back and switch play.

Hazard has a free role in attack, with Mendy offering width on the left. On the right, Sane stays wide stretching the game looking to take on their lb.


------------------- Neuer
Carvajal- S.Ramos - Laporte - B.Mendy
------------------- Rodri
----------- Thiago ---- Ceballos
L.Sane ----------------------------- Hazard
----------------- Ronaldo

Subs. Schmeichel, Pavard, Casemiro, Fabian.R, A.Correa, Coutinho, Belotti

Defending in numbers

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.

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.

As Chelsea advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1. Our wingers will track any forward runs made by their fbs, and Rodri presses the space in front of our cbs, sweeping up danger in front of the defence, the cms pressing their midfield.

In this tight formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Rodri will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, getting across to cut out any danger. Thiago picks up the most advanced cm. The winger opposite play comes inside and sits on their deepest cm while Ceballos presses the space next to and in front of Rodri. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.

Attack.

Rodri and Thiago dictating the play. The trio's movement will be key in opening up the opposition defence. Sane stays wide on the right stretching the play. Hazard has more freedom. One fb bombs forward at a time offering another option in attack.

Rodri and Thiago seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game. We look to find space between their defence and midfield, committing defenders from there and playing killer balls.

We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Thiago, Ceballos and the wingers will always be looking for the killer ball. If it is not on, we are happy to keep the ball moving and keep possession.

Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Casemiro for Ceballos fresh legs and stronger defensively. Thiago more attacking freedom.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Correa for Sane. Fresh legs in midfield. Super sub to keep the tempo high.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Coutinho for Thiago. Fresh legs to see the game out with Casemiro and Rodri offering a strong shield in front of defence, gives us someone to stretch a tired Chelsea.

If drawing after 70 mins bring on Coutinho for Ceballos.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Correa for Sane. Fresh legs and ideas.
If going to extra time bring on Casemiro for Rodri. Fresh legs in the middle of the park.


If losing after 60 mins bring on Coutinho for Ceballos.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Pavard and Correa for Carvajal and Rodri. Our possession cant be working so more direct, Thiago to dm. Coutinho and Correa in central positions.

Bournemouth Week 17:

Captain : Dias
Vice Captain : Musso

--------------------Musso
Emerson---Andersen---Dias---Saracchi
---------Zubeldia-------Bentancur
----------------- Paquetá
Pussetto---------------------------Everton
-------------------Gómez

SUBS: Felipe, Romero, Militão, Cáseres, Vargas, Maycon, Driussi


SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Zubeldia) who will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Bentancur). In front of them Paquetá will operate as the link between midfield and attack. This I feel will give us a better balanced midfield and while being absolutely defensively sound with 2 ‘sitting’ Bentancur will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Paquetá and attack. I think this set-up lets us link up quickly with our attack while at the same time that little bit of extra cautiousness means it will be easy for us to close the door in midfield with all 3 players as comfortable sitting and breaking up attacks if necessary.
We want to play a nice tidy and crisp passing game. Our aim is to move the ball forward as quickly and as effectively as possible. When we have the ball we will use it wisely and when we don’t have the ball then we will press our opponents all over the park with high urgency to win it back. We want to keep the ball on the deck and attack as a team and equally as important defend as a team. This team is bursting with pace. We will utilise that to our advantage and make the pitch wide and use our flying wingers to cause all sorts of mayhem. It will also be a tool that we use to hit opponents on the counter where we know we can out pace any team.
Goalkeeper: Musso is a big mobile keeper and very agile. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: We will operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Zubeldia). He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Bentancur). He has a more conservative role this week and while being a little more constrained than normal he will still have the opportunity to bomb forward when the time is right. They will both have to put a defensive shift in and both are very strong in the tackle. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition. In front of them Paquetá will operate as the link between midfield and attack.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Pussetto and Everton will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring De Paquetá, Bentancur and Gómez in to play. They can vary their attacks as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Bentancur may sit a bit deeper allowing Paquetá to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF.
As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Gómez starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great playing off the shoulder of the last man he is deadly in and around the box. A bag of energy and very strong we will also look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his lightning pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Paquetá, Everton or Pussetto with Andersen, Dias, Zubeldia and Gómez to offer an aerial threat. Paquetá and Everton (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.

Substitutions: (75 mins) If winning (and comfortable) then 3 like for like subs – Romero for Andersen, Cáseres for Zubeldia and Driussi for Gómez.
If losing (70 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Bentancur with Driussi and Pussetto with Maycon. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
--------------Zubeldia
Maycon------Paquetá-----Everton
--------Driussi -----Gómez

---------------------- Cillessen ---------------------
Mukiele ------ Akanji ------ Elvedi ------ Caricol
--------------- N'Zonzi ------ R.Neves -------------
L.Moura -------------- Mata ------------- R.Fraser
----------------------- Lukaku -----------------------

Audero, Ginter, Vidal, T.Adams, Almiron, Mandzukic, Alcacer

Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team with two banks of four and Mata and Lukaku harassing the backline and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially N'Zonzi, Neves and Mata as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards.

Mukiele and Caricol 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 Mata and Lukaku. They look to play one twos with the midfield which will get him 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.. Akanji the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Elvedi alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, bot very powerful 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. Both up for corners, fullbacks stay back and a midfielder just sitting in front of them. 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 CBs 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..

N'Zonzi'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, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him.

Neves 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, he also has a mean shot from distance and isn't afraid to have a go. Mata's main responsibility is to both create chances for the three attackers in front of him and indeed score the goals himself. He will often find himself the furthest forward of the three midfielders and sometimes even in the number 9 role if the correct situation arises. The main requirement of Mata 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.

Wingers 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 Neves/Mata to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using Mata to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Lukaku so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.Lukaku will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to bully the slower/weaker of the two/three with the aid of Mata and the wingers and sometimes the fullbacks. 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/weaker 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 and Fraser will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side if he cant go for goal himself. But especially look for Mata/Neves as they time their runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.

We must defend as a team tho, from the front, so wingers track back and cover the fullbacks, even just to stop them supporting the wingers, we must drive into them and pressurize them into mistakes

Captain - Elvedi
Pens - Lukaku/Alcacer
FK's - Mata
Corners - Wingers

Subs:-

Losing
70 Mins - Alcacer & Almiron for Mata and Fraser, we go 442 and a bit more direct to the front two, Almiron provides a real threat down the left
80 Mins - Mandzukic fo Caricol 343 get it to the front three asap

Winning -
70 Mins - Vidal for Mata, sit in and add some dig to the midfield
80 Mins - T.Adams for Neves, freshen it up v any new mids
85 Mins - Alcacer for Lukaku

Drawing -
70 Mins - Almiron for Fraser, Alcacer for Lukaku, fresh legs, new threat
80 Mins - Vidal for Mata, swap with Neves and give Neves a bit more freedom to have a go

------------------------ A.Meret ----------------------
E.Hysaj ------ Mancini ------ Varane ------ Sandro
--------------- Fabinho ------- M.Pjanic ------------
Mbappe --------------- Pogba ------------- Thorgan
--------------------- Lewandowski -------------------

Gunn, de Jong, Aouar, Zaniolo, Kluivert, Chiesa, Piatek

Possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, Pjanic, Fabinho and Pogba just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and the front 3 in and around the half way line, Lewandowski slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow us to dictate play, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.

Mancini picks up the CF, Varane spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly when we have possession, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, both must attack high balls to get the ball away from there big men. Fullbacks must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks 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. When they attack, only one at a time, as to not let ourselves be exposed, they drive down the line in support of the wingers. the two always make themselves available to the wingers. If either get caught up field I want Fabinho to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. I want both Manici and Varane to go up for corners, Mancini a huge threat in particular, with the fullbacks and Fabinho sitting back.

In the centre of the pitch are Pjanic, Fabinho and Pogba. Fabinho our deepest player sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, Pjanic and Pogba have to be disciplined and lend a hand to stop them coming through. Fabinho must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. Pjanic slightly higher up the pitch, he will stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, make our midfield very difficult to pass through, protect our defence and Fabinho as best as possible and again in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Pogba as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Pogba is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, I want him higher up the pitch today so as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in an advanced No.10 role and look for the Pjanic/Fabinho/CB pass. he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.

Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Thorgan will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Pogba to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Thorgan to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Lewandowski who can beat any defender and the other winger (Thorgan or Mbappe) who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Lewandowski who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack. We are quick up front so when we hit the Arsenal defence they will struggle to cope especially as the game comes to the last 10/15ins as defenders tire with the movement and the pace we do it at

Captain - Varane
Pens - Mbappe
Corners - Pjanic/Aouar
Free Kicks - Pjanic/Aouar

Losing -
65 Mins - Fabinho goes to RCB, Hysaj and Sandro to wingbacks, Thorgan and Mbappe either side of Lewandowski 343
75 Mins - Kluivert and Chiesa for Hysaj and Sandro 343 attacking
82 Mins - Piatek for Thorgan

Winning -
75 Mins - de Jong for Pogba 4141 with Fabinho in between defence and midfield, de Jong and Pjanic will control the game
80 Mins - Piatek for Lewandowski
85 Mins - Aouar for Thorgan, will help defensively down that side

Drawing -
70 Mins - Zaniolo and Piatek for Pogba and Lewandowski, fresh legs, Zaniolo good in the air so will look for flick ons/knock downs, good shot as well
80 Mins - de Jong for Pjanic, fresh legs

Leicester City v HULL CITY

---------------------Pavlenka
Aurier-------Rugani------Aké-----Angeliño
--------------Lobotka----Nández
Bernardeschi----Neuhaus---------Forsberg
-------------------Aubameyang

Subs: Woodman, Foyth, Kampl, Matondo, McNeil, Mitrovic, González

Our defensive unit consists of Daniele Rugani and Nathan Aké paired up at centre-back, Serge Aurier at right-back and Angeliño at left-back, with Stanislav Lobotka and Nahitan Nández as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Lobotka and Nández we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.

The strength of our double pivot is that Nández can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Lobotka can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.

Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.

Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Nández’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.

With Nández running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Stanislav Lobotka.

A holding midfielder through and through, Lobotka is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Lobotka such a talent.

The attacking unit consists of Federico Bernardeschi, Florian Neuhaus and Emil Forsberg as our band of three attacking midfielders with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as our lone central striker.

Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.

In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.

Once we have won the ball back, often by Lobotka or Nández, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.

Aurier and Angeliño can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Lobotka and Nández can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Federico Bernardeschi and Emil Forsberg, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box.

Neuhaus lines up as our “Raumdeuter” (space-interpreter), who will use his distinct and unorthodox technique to find spaces between the lines. Neuhaus is an intuitive and instinctive player who will nearly always play a perfect pass and make a perfect run.

His space-interpreting ability will be reflected in the spaces he picks up his assists from, often behind our opposition’s midfield and ahead of their defence, able to play a perfect pass forward and pick the right spot in the blink of an eye.

We’ve tweaked our philosophy to involve Neuhaus so as to have as little as possible to do in terms of build-up of play and do what he is best at: find space, interpret play and be two steps ahead of our opposition by using his finest tool, anticipation.

Perhaps the deadliest asset Neuhaus possesses is his work without the ball, to get into good scoring positions or to put his teammates in good scoring positions.

Neuhaus’s movement is different from all others. He’ll interpret space and form cohesion with his intelligent running and inhuman anticipatory skills and as a result, Aubameyang, Bernardeschi and Forsberg will benefit. Neuhaus isn’t our flashiest player or doesn’t seem the most dangerous but once a keen eye is kept on him, his true expertise will be known.

Another highly noticeable attribute of a Neuhaus’s game is his link-up play. Neuhaus will make runs and movement to support Bernardeschi, Forsberg and Aubameyang with ease, mostly with one or two touch football and that will adequately support his teammates and vice versa.

Neuhaus is aware with his running and of the surroundings near him that will help attacking moves. With our full-backs, this sort of movement will influence their own overlapping runs, and as with our forwards, they can get into good goal scoring positions. Neuhaus will make himself readily available to teammates and without the intention, provide much more help in the build-up of attacking play than they notice.

Aubameyang is our potent attacker in the final third with his pace. His pace will allow him to actively make a nuisance of himself against our opponent’s defenders. He’s a player who likes to run on to the ball rather than receive it at his feet, and our creative attacking midfielders (especially Neuhaus as referred to above) with his clever through balls will perfectly compliment Aubameyang’s style. Aubameyang’s quick pace and energy will also make him a genuine threat from counter-attacking situations.
Once in a goal scoring position, Aubameyang is clinical.

Subs on 75 mins
Kampl on for Nández and González on for Bernardeschi

Like for like changes; Kampl and González should trouble any tiresome legs in the oppositions midfield/defence as we push for a late goal regardless of the result.

NEWCASTLE 4-3-3

___________Chesney
Azpi____Hummels___Godin___Robbo
__________Kante
________Verratti___Silva
Salah______Suarez________Reus

SUBS: Alder, Alli, Witsel, Radja, Diego Costa, Suso, Bobby

Captain: Marco Reus
Penalties: Luis Suarez
Corners: David Silva
Freekicks: Luis Suarez
Crossing Freekick: Marco Reus

The formation deployed today is so that we gain as much control as possible higher up he pitch. We expect to have more of the ball so patience is key. We also expect the four behind the striker to drift around a bit, getting into positions where their natural play can cause damage. The striker up front presses when we don’t have the ball and the entire team will support him cut passing lanes to help win the ball higher up. The quality of our players will allow us to break through the oppositions press. When we have the ball we will want to attract the press and use the spaces that they open up to attack.

Full backs will get forward when the opportunity arises. Our full backs are good at feeding our forward line with their ability on the ball and we aim to utilize that with their ability to get up the pitch and tactical arareness. We also need our full backs to widen the pitch for us. Our centre halves are good on the ball, and a long punt every now and then to utilize our pace out wide is encouraged. Our right back will also tuck in to help solidify the team.

The regista will drop in to form a back three so that the centre backs can split wide to push the full backs general position higher up in line with the midfielders (and wide forwards engage their back line along with the striker). In doing so we create a four man midfield to overpower their midfield. This will allow our midfield to be flexible, if one of their midfielders steps forward, one of ours will move into the space they vacated. The regista will be the link between our defence and midfield and because of the way he plays, he will draw the opponents forward towards him to attack the ball, pulling their team’s lines apart. This will create more spaces between the lines for our midfield and forward lines to move into. The right centre mid will be the more defensive one in his box to box role, closing down space and cutting passing lanes with his incredible interception ability. Playing alongside the regista will give him less areas of the pitch to cover, and shorter distance needed to win the ball back to start the next attack. Both centre mids will float between the lines during the attacking phase just behind our forwards.

By having our wide forwards up front when we have the ball it will effectively create space out wide. We would expect our full backs to sometimes go infield to collect the ball from the keeper, while one of the midfielders goes wide so when he receives the ball he will have time to look up and pick passes as the opposition midfield will be reluctant to press which will leave a man free in midfield. This can be done by a midfielder too, dropping deep to create a free man in the first line with time on the ball, ping it straight to the striker who can lay it off to the other onrushing midfielder.

If short passing options aren’t available the passing range and accuracy of our keeper will safely transfer the ball forwards via our full backs, wherever they are on the pitch. The keeper can also dink the ball into space for the striker or wide forward to control taking out 6 or 7 opposition players in the process.

The striker’s main role will be to create space for the wide forwards. He will drop deep into a ten to drag defenders out and create space for our wide forwards to run into. This will tie into our quick short passing which is aimed at dragging their players out of position and create space between their lines. Our team will always recycle the ball back to the regista to keep possession and to keep the ball moving.

When we don’t have the ball we will expect our four behind the striker to drop into a 4-5-1 in support of our regista and right centre mid. We will also create triangles to trap the opposition players that have the ball, cutting the passing lanes and others putting pressure on players that might receive the ball. We stop the oppositions rhythm and force them into mistakes with our pressure. To stop their counter attacks after we lose the ball, three players will swarm the ball carrier before he can get his head up to play. If they beat the immediate press when the team’s main goal is to push their play wide where they can do the least damage. Our midfielders are an integral part to our play, when we win the ball back we will create space and time for them with our team shape. There will be times when we are under the cosh and will have the option of deploying a bowl shaped 5 at the back, with the right centre mid dropping in to make closing down the opponents very effective.

Subs

70 mins: Radja comes on for Silva, our legs will start to tire, so will theirs, Radja will add box to box ability and energy late in the game.

75 mins: Bobby comes on for Suarez, a different style of forward play for the opposition to think about.

If winning 80 mins: Witsel comes on for Kante to close out the game. He is capable in deep midfield alongside Verratti in a 4-2-3-1.

If losing/drawing 80 mins: Diego Costa comes on for Verratti and play 2 up front.

Vs Birmingham

————————Ter Stegen
Odriozola——Rudiger——Sule——Gaya
————————-Torreira
—————B.Silva—————Brandt
Sancho——————Dybala————Guedes

Pope, Weiser, Ndidi, Loftus-Cheek, Keita, Milinkovic, Kane

Captain: Marc Andre Ter Stegen
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala
Corners: Bernardo Silva
Penalties: Paulo Dybala

The aim of our build up play will be to get the ball into the free CB, as well as drawing Birmingham’s midfield forward. Position our midfield deeper, with Torreira just ahead of the CBs, CMs dropping towards play, CBs stretched out and FBs slightly higher in line with Torreira, creating a diamond in both half spaces through which we can escape pressure, before switching to the CB on the free side (can use Ter Stegen when needed). CB can carry the ball forward and plays a ball into the CM on his side to provoke one of the Birmingham CMs into stepping up, the CM can play it immediately back to the CB, Torreira or the FB, who will then play it vertically into the inverted winger/Dybala who drop behind the pushed up CM. Equally, if the CB brings it forward and the opposition don’t break their structure, he can play a long ball out to the opposite flank to stretch the game.

When establishing possession we use short passing combinations, minimal spacing between players, staggered between the lines. Allows for quick movement of the ball, shifting constantly to different lines, drawing more of a reaction from the opposition and sucking them in towards the ball to open up space elsewhere, which we can quickly switch into. The constant movement of the ball, and constant movement of our players, changing runs and swapping positions, creates a mental overload on the opponent, with some players chasing to follow the ball, and others the man, allowing us to break their defensive structure and unmark ourselves higher up the field. The opponent then has to react to the hole that they leave, and this sucks defenders out of the last line of defence, allowing us to play in their blindsides.

Torreira and the CBs are the second pass facilitators of this style, with a better view of the pitch ahead of them, and more space to work in they have the best access to passing lanes, and can make the best choice of where to build attacks. When these guys get the ball with space, the players ahead of them must make runs, particularly using a CM, or a winger to make a run in behind their defence for a quick lofted pass.

B.Silva is the main creator in the side today, roaming the midfield to link play, and find space in the half space / between the lines, drifting wide to overload their FBs, as well as combining closely with Brandt, Dybala and the wingers. Brandt will have a similar role, looking to occupy the left half space as much as possible to draw out the Birmingham DM and create space for Dybala to drop into. Equally, both Brandt and Silva can overload one half space to draw multiple defenders out of the back line.

Our wingers look to create positional superiority alongside our CMs and Dybala. Sancho can stretch the game and pin the FB back, to open up more 1 v 1 battles for our CMs and himself. He also looks to make runs in behind as with his pace the Birmingham defence have to drop and become detached from midfield, or risk being beaten in a foot race. Guedes looks to offer this same direct threat, but his ability to play through the middle also means he can go and make runs into the space Dybala often vacates. At times our shape can become more of a diamond when Dybala drops into a 10 role, allowing Sancho and Guedes to play between FBs and CBs and pin the entire back 4 so we have a 4 vs 3 in the midfield. When this happens it means one of the Birmingham wingers has to tuck in, leaving more space for our FBs to attack into, or one of the defenders steps out, creating a 1 v 1 for our flair wingers.

Dybala is given a free role when we attack, we want him picking up pockets of space in order to overload the opposition, particularly space between the defence and midfield as Silva and Brandt already occupy the opposition DMs. When he gets the ball he moves it quickly and when he’s passed it on, he makes his own run towards goal.

Off the ball we use a 4-5-1 shape. We will look to high press, with three key triggers. Firstly a ball played between CBs. Dybala will look to pressure the ball carrying CB, closing vertical passing lanes. When one CB passes to the other CB, our ball side CM will step up and press in the same manner as Dybala, creating a 4-4-2. Wingers stay tucked into the half spaces to make vertical passes difficult, Torreira always slightly deeper than the other CM to create a strong core. This should force them to the corners, which is our next pressing trigger. When this happens, the winger steps out to press the FB, with CF and CM in the first line of defence also pushing out to the wing, looking to pen the FB in, with our FB pushing higher up to condense space and cut passing lanes to the winger (far side winger, Torreira and the other CM create a strong midfield 3).

The final trigger is pressing from Goalkicks. Our front three will come narrow, covering the width of the box, wingers pressing the Cbs if they try to play out, CMs can go out to the FBs when needed, whilst Dybala covers passing lanes to the DM. Force them to go long from GKs.

The back line adjusts their position based on the position of the ball and team mates, so when Newcastle have the ball with their defence and we are high pressing, the back 4 will be pushed up right behind the midfield line, keeping minimal space between the lines, shutting down passing lanes in the middle to force the opponents wide or long. Our 3 lines move up and down in unison, so when Newcastle have periods of established possession in our half, our 4-5-1 shape falls right back together to keep us compact, using the same pressing triggers as we would higher up.

Subs:

If Winning: Kane for Dybala 70'. Ndidi for Brandt 75', more of a 4-2-3-1 shape now. Milinkovic for Sancho 80'.

If Drawing: Milinkovic for Brandt 70', provides more drive and power. Kane for Guedes 75', 4-2-3-1 with Silva wide and Dybala and Kane through the middle. Weiser for Odriozola 80'

If Losing: Ndidi and Milinkovic for Odriozola and Gaya 60', 3-4-3, Torreira will step back into defence and Ndidi and Milinkovic will provide a platform for the front 5 to go and do their thing. Kane for Guedes 70'.

If Red:

Ter Stegen > Pope and Ndidi for Sancho and Brandt - 4-4-1.
FB > Weiser and Ndidi for Sancho and Brandt - as above
CB > Ndidi and Milinkovic for Sancho and Brandt - Ndidi plays CB.
DM > Ndidi and Milinkovic for Sancho and Brandt - 4-4-1
CM > Ndidi for the remaining CM
Winger > Ndidi for Brandt, 4-4-1
Dybala > No change of players, Sancho and Guedes to play up front in a 4-3-2

-------------------Buffon
Clyne----Sokratis----Verthongen----Luis
------------------Brozovic
------------Rabiot-------Kovacic
Sterling----------------------------------Mkhi
-------------------Son
Subs
Strakosha, Inigo, Bertrand, Gylfi, Henderson, Gameiro, Inaki

Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control, they have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance.

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 counters, When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out, they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style.



For the full backs 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.

 Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who to 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.

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. 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, looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the attackers to drag the opposition defensive players out of position. 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. 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 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 - Sterling 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, Hendo and Brozovic flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Rabiot 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. Son 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 draw defenders out of the box.





Free Kicks - Locatelli takes Direct FK's


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 - Henderson for Rabiot and Bertrand for Luis - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Henderson for Brozovic - add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.

If Losing



67 Mins - Gameiro, Inaki and Inigo for Brozovic, Luis and Clyne - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.

-------------------------- Courtois ------------------------
Vrsalkjo ----- M.Skriniar ----- Koulibaly -- Hernandez
------------- Fernandinho ----- Jorginho ---------------
O.Dembele ----------- C.Eriksen ------------- A.Martial
------------------------ Timo Werner ---------------------

Subs:
Hart, Lenglet, Partey, Arthur, Under, Haller, Jovic

Captain: Fernandinho
Free Kicks: Eriksen
Penalties: Werner
Corners: Eriksen

Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim for 3 points. Our three AM’s in support of Werner will be key components of this style as we feel we pose threats from all angles with plenty of goals in our lineup. Fernandinho and Jorginho offer great quality on the ball from a slightly deeper position as they both possess a fantastic range of passing, able to break the lines and play that killer pass in to our attacking quartet. We will look to dictate the play and frustrate the opposition when in possession, continually moving them around, making them chase the ball by switching flanks. In doing so we will not only be wearing them down but also continually pulling them out of shape, breaking down their defensive structure as we look to make numerous openings as we go for goals in today’s match up.

Whilst the opposition have some dangerous players we will look to significantly limit their impact by retaining possession, we will force them to track back or risk leaving their defence exposed when we push forward in numbers. We aim to make things uncomfortable for them and we feel that limiting their ability to have the ball in attacking areas will severely limit any threat posed. When they are in possession our wingers drop in as we play a compact 4-5-1 formation. The aim of the game will be to break at speed with our wide players offering an immediate outlet when we win back possession. Turning defence into attack in the blink of an eye.

We aim to play on the front foot, hit them early to take the lead and then exploit the space in behind as they push forward for an equaliser. We start fast, high intensity and pressing from the front, putting them under immediate pressure we can force mistakes early on.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with experience and quality we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. We have two strong and aerially imposing CB’s to deal with the threat posed by their forwards. We will look to be dominant at the back as we aim to take the sting out of the opposition early on and play on the front foot. Our fullbacks have license to push forward when in possession, however one at a time. They will look to be more conservative as usual as with a solid defensive unit. We look to draw the opposition onto us, with their attack minded wingers and fullbacks we feel we can exploit the space they leave behind and hit them with devastating effect on the counter with the pace and directness of Dembele and Martial.

If the opposition play one up top then Koulibaly will mark, strong and aggressive we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Skriniar will sweep up and cover in behind, a fantastic reader at the back he will also be the one to bring the ball out from defence. Nothing fancy just look to get the ball into the feet of our CM’s or the runs of our wide men who will look to do all the damage.

Midfield:

Fernandinho will control the midfield and offer additional protection through the middle, sitting alongside Jorginho he will be key to our style of play with their quick passing. Keep the ball moving, continually recycling possession and making the opposition chase shadows. Don’t force the issue as we aim to run them down, tired legs leads to tired minds and we feel that this will lead to plenty of openings as we continually move them out of shape. Forming a double pivot in front of our defence they not only offer protection but form the first line of our attack. Look for the early runs of the wide players as they possess electric pace and will be looking to get in behind the oppositions defence at all times. Eriksen plays ahead of them in the AM role, a gifted technician in his own right he will be looking to craft opportunities all afternoon. With the runs of Werner, Dembele and Martial to pick out we feel that he will thrive. An assist master we also encourage him to go for goal should the opportunity arise, we anticipate the opposition sitting deep and an Eriksen thunderbolt from distance is always on the cards when given space.

Forwards:

Frightening pace, electrifying dribbling and deadly finishing, we feel our front three have it all. Our wide players will look to take the opposition on at will. Dembele and Martial both have license to cut in from the flanks and go for goal, we encourage them to utilise their terrific pace and go at the opposition. Draw in the oppositions CB’s which in turn creates space for Werner to be slipped in and finish. Both will look to make jinking runs into the box where they can draw a foul or drive to the byline and whip the ball into Werner in the middle. Both wingers have fantastic work rate and will be a constant outlet as they make runs in behind when our playmakers are in possession. We play three up front when on the attack and really look to test the opposition defence with a goal threat from every angle. Werner plays through the middle, a player with fantastic movement and real predator. Immediately look to get into the box when we’re on the attack as he look to get in behind the opposition CB’s at every opportunity.

Subs;

If winning:
60 mins: Eriksen off, Partey on.
75 mins: Martial off, Lenglet on. 5-4-1 shut up shop time as we tighten up with a solid defensive unit as we see the game out and take the 3 points.

If drawing:
60 mins: Jorginho off, Arthur on. Eriksen slots into CM alongside Fernandinho with Under, Dembele and Martial forming a midfield AM trio behind Werner.
75 mins: Martial off, Jovic on. We move to 4-2-2-2 with a front two of Werner and Jovic as we go for the winner.

If losing:
55 mins: Jorginho off, Jovic on.
65 mins: Hernandez and Fernandinho off, Under and Haller on. We revert to 3-4-3 with Werner, Haller and Jovic up top as we go for goals, goals, goals.

Tottenham v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

Injuries: Di Maria, Diawara, Tah, Hakimi

-------------- Arrizabalaga
Maffeo - Barzagli - D Luiz - Wendell
---- Rakitic - Khedira - Gundogan
------------- Hamsik - Ozil
---------------- Immobile

Subs: Leno, Mina, Tierney, Sturaro, Perisic, Arnautovic, Vardy

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

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

Christmas comes early (or late) as we are playing a 4-3-2-1 today, Arrizabalaga in goal, Barzagli and David Luiz at centreback, Maffeo and Wendell at fullback, Rakitic, Khedira and Gundogan in midfield, Hamsik and Ozil as AM's behind Immobile upfront.

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

Arrizabalaga - 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 Immobile.

Barzagli/Luiz - Luiz mark their striker, force them high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Barzagli 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. Both of you go forward for setpieces.

Maffeo/Wendell - Both of you to force the Spurs wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Hamsik and Ozil as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Immobile and link with Rakitic and Gundogan. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Khedira - Our DM today, sit in front of the back four, break up play, watch out for runs from deep from the opposition, when in possession use your range of passing to look for teammates in advanced positions, use Rakitic and Gundogan alongside you if you're closed down.

Rakitic/Gundogan - Two box to box midfielders today, one either side of Khedira at DM. Both of you are required to get back and assist Khedira in front of the back four when we don't have the ball, but both with the ability and the freedom to push forward and join the front three, while always leaving at least one of you behind the ball. Look to link with Hamsik, Ozil or Immobile.

Hamsik/Ozil - Both with the trickery to beat the Spurs fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Immobile with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Rakitic and Gundogan, and capitalise on the space Immobile's presence will create for you.

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 Hamsik or Ozil on occasion. Try and link with Hamsik/Ozil to create opportunities.

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

Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Hamsik, Ozil and Immobile off, Arnautovic, Perisic and Vardy on. Flat 4-5-1, Arnautovic to RM, Perisic to LM. Vardy upfront. Absorb pressure and hit on the break with our fresh pace.

If drawing: Khedira and Hamsik off, Arnautovic and Perisic on. Switch to a 4-2-3-1, Rakitic and Gundogan in midfield, Arnautovic - Ozil - Perisic behind Immobile. Try and find a winner.

If losing: Luiz, Khedira and Hamsik off, Arnautovic, Perisic and Vardy on. 3-1-4-2, Maffeo - Barzagli - Wendell at the back, Rakitic the playmaker from deep, Arnautovic - Gundogan - Ozil - Perisic behind Immobile and Vardy upfront. Push for goals.