Week 13 - QPR vs. Aston Villa

--------------------------------Ter Stegen------------------------------
------Rafael-----------Jesus-----------Ferdinand------A Sandro--
-------------------------Sandro---------Vidal------------------------
--------Blaszcykowski-----Coutinho-------------El Sharawwy--
---------------------------------Lewandowski-----------------------

Subs: Butland, Janmaat, N'Kolou, Pogba, Kagawa, Herrmann, Di Natale

We want to play a free flowing, high pressing and attacking game against Aston Villa today. We will leave them no room to rest and as the home side are taking the game to them today. A fluid 4-2-3-1 will keep Villa on their toes, and with our Midfield being the area in which we are dominant this is where we will seek to retain the majority of possession, and create chances through our slick passing, pace and movement to leave space for the likes of Lewandowski and El Sharawwy.

Ter Stegen is a talented young goalkeeper with the ability to keep any shots out of the goal, and with a sense of experience that belies his age. He will dictate and organise this defence, as well as claiming any balls into the box.

Considering Villa have a dangerous strikeforce, we have decided to include Ferdinand today to marshall the affair. Whilst Jesus will have the role of picking up the main CF, Ferdinand is going to offer cover and pick up any extra runners into the box. We are going to push up the pitch to allow them as little room to play in as possible, and we will be able to cover this with the pace our defence has. Rafael and A Sandro must remember that they are primarily defenders and thus will have the role of showing their winger onto the weaker foot and closing them down when they're in space. They also have license to venture forwards (alternately) seeking to get beyond their winger and provide extra width which will a) pin their wingers back and b) make more space for our AM's to play in.

Sandro is the Anchor Man, and the foundations of our side. He will be sitting deep and helping to dictate the tempo of our game with short, crisp passing to those in space. However, his main role will be to supress the space that the opposistion AMC has to play in, and close him down at all times thus cutting of their supply lines. Vidal on the other hand, is the quintessential all round midfielder. There is nothing he can't do, he will bound along from deep, dictate the tempo of the game with his passing and offer a key role in pressing their midfield. This is the area in which we can dominate.

Coutinho is given a free role, with license to create and entertain. His movement and drifiting nature will mean that he is nearly impossible to pick up and this will create space. In turn, he has deadly passing and will look to either create chances for himself or those around him. El Sharawwy is an inside-forward who will look to cut inside and run at the space in between FB and CB troubling them with his pace and trickery, before either creating a chance for himself or those around him - A Sandro will provide the width down this side. On the other hand, Kuba is your more traditional winger who will look to get beyond his man and get the ball into the box towards Lewandowski, whilst he will also be allowed to have efforts on goal.

Lewandowski is a complete forward, and he will look to hold up play, bring others into the game and finish any of the chances that come his way. He will do everything he can with his movement and pace to create space for himself and others which will lead to goals for us, and only enhance the fluidity of our play.

Captain: Ferdinand
Set Pieces: Vidal
Pens: Lewandowski

If winning after 75: Pogba > Vidal, N'Koulou > Ferdinand
If drawing/losing after 75: Kagawa > Coutinho, Herrmann > Blaszcykowski

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Week 13 - West Ham v STOKE CITY

--------------------Mignolet

Crescenzi-----Varane-----Huth-----Alba

--------------------Ganso

Kightly-----------------------------------McClean

------------------Muniane

-----------Jones----------Walters

Subs

Sorensen, Wilson, Wilkinson, Whelan, Delf, Shotton, N'Zonzi

Formation
Continuing with a 4-4-2 DIAMOND formation for what will be a testing away game against Norwich. I want to give Muniain the chance to play a free role behind the strikers which has yielded his best performances.

Keeper
When distributing the ball, he should look to short passes to defence or out to the wingers. He should only punt it if no options available. At crosses and set pieces, should look to catch rather than punch.

Defence
Crescenzi and Alba should look after their defensive duties first and foremost, but look to get forward when we are having periods of dominance. Huth will lead the line and Varane will keep close to Huth to reduce the gap through the middle. Both CB's will always look for quick outlet to the wings.

Midfield
Ganso, Kightly and Mc Clean will play slightly tighter together to allow Muniain a free role behind the strikers. Wingers should help out full backs when necessary, but have been instructed to press the opposition fullbacks to minimise their time on the ball. Ganso has the main responsibility of marshalling the midfield and track any of Norwich's runners from midfield. McClean and Kightly should attack Norwich's full-backs and press them back. They should drop back when Crescenzi or Alba overlap.

Strikers
Walters and Jones will play right at the top and rough up Norwich's CB's which will allow Muniane and McClean to exploit the gaps with forward runs. All three attacking players are instructed to shoot when in sight of goal.

Set Pieces
Corners - Kightly and McClean take in swinging corners, the 2 CB's go into the box, Ganso and the full backs stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Jones attack the ball, the other CMs and wingers take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.

Free Kicks - For direct FK's Muniain and Ganso will shoot depending on which foot it favours. For Indirect FKs, player nearest to position will take.

Penalties - Muniain is the designated taker.

Subs
Keeping this simple. Where possible, subs will be like for like. No subs before 70 mins unless a player is injured. At 70 mins, only make subs if drawing or losing.
Take off Jones, put Muniain up front and drop N'Zonzi into DM. Ganso will move forward.


P.s. I have brought Varane back into the side as the injury page hasn't been updated and he has been out for the designated time. I can assure you he is fit to play

--------------------------Forster------------------------
Clyne -------- Puyol ----------- Lovren ------- Shaw
-------------- Gustavo---------Cabaye---------------
Teixeira----------- Mkhitaryan ------------Shaqiri
-------------------------Damiao------------------------

Subs

Davis
Young
Schneiderlin
Puncheon
Rodriguez
Drogba

Forster is Solid keeper, I want him to be brave and come to collect loose balls in the box,. Will collect high balls to.

Puyol will be the dominant defeder and will be asked to be a big character, he will organize the defensive line. He will take the big duties. He will be marking the the striker (if two the main striker)

Lovren is a very good defender and he will mark the other striker if he is on or comes on, he will mark the other striker if not will provide cover.
Both CB’s will show the defenders onto their weaker foot and show them away from goal.

Clyne and Shaw will look to help the two wide men out when attacking but will need to choose their attacks wisely.
When defending they should look to show their wingers into the corner or onto their weaker foot so the cross isnt as good. If they steal the ball I want them to look to create a counter attack quickly.


Gustavo and Cabaye, Gustavo will sit deep and keep an eye on the AM of the opposition He will sit deep and will look to stop opposite playing, when he wins the ball he will look to dispatch it quickly to start an attack.
Cabaye will be used as a box to box midfielder. Cabaye will help to break up the oppositions play but will be the one to push up when we are attacking, he will always look to make himself available to receive a pass to play to others.

Teixiera and Shaqiri are playing as wingers and inside forwards, pass and move all the time try and create openings, they will take on the fullbacks on or indeed cut inside When defending they will look to help the full backs but will also look to make runs when we get possession to recieve the ball and run.

Drilled crosses will be preferred.

Damiao will always look the recieve the ball, he will look to make clever runs into the box when crosses come in to look to tap them in.

Mkhitaryan look to exploit the space that is created and be used to run into the box get on the end of crosses and even support the striker

Subs
If losing 75th min
Drogba > Mkhitaryan – go 4-4-2 put crosses into the box with the two big strikers going for everything.

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Week 14 - Norwich v STOKE CITY

--------------------Mignolet

Crescenzi-----Varane-----Huth-----Alba

--------------------Ganso

Kightly-----------------------------------McClean

------------------Muniane

-----------Jones----------Walters

Subs

Sorensen, Wilson, Wilkinson, Whelan, Delf, Shotton, N'Zonzi

Formation
Continuing with a 4-4-2 DIAMOND formation for what will be a testing away game against Norwich. I want to give Muniain the chance to play a free role behind the strikers which has yielded his best performances.

Keeper
When distributing the ball, he should look to short passes to defence or out to the wingers. He should only punt it if no options available. At crosses and set pieces, should look to catch rather than punch.

Defence
Crescenzi and Alba should look after their defensive duties first and foremost, but look to get forward when we are having periods of dominance. Huth will lead the line and Varane will keep close to Huth to reduce the gap through the middle. Both CB's will always look for quick outlet to the wings.

Midfield
Ganso, Kightly and Mc Clean will play slightly tighter together to allow Muniain a free role behind the strikers. Wingers should help out full backs when necessary, but have been instructed to press the opposition fullbacks to minimise their time on the ball. Ganso has the main responsibility of marshalling the midfield and track any of Norwich's runners from midfield. McClean and Kightly should attack Norwich's full-backs and press them back. They should drop back when Crescenzi or Alba overlap.

Strikers
Walters and Jones will play right at the top and rough up Norwich's CB's which will allow Muniane and McClean to exploit the gaps with forward runs. All three attacking players are instructed to shoot when in sight of goal.

Set Pieces
Corners - Kightly and McClean take in swinging corners, the 2 CB's go into the box, Ganso and the full backs stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Jones attack the ball, the other CMs and wingers take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.

Free Kicks - For direct FK's Muniain and Ganso will shoot depending on which foot it favours. For Indirect FKs, player nearest to position will take.

Penalties - Muniain is the designated taker.

Subs
Keeping this simple. Where possible, subs will be like for like. No subs before 70 mins unless a player is injured. At 70 mins, only make subs if drawing or losing.
Take off Jones, put Muniain up front and drop N'Zonzi into DM. Ganso will move forward.


P.s. I have brought Varane back into the side as the injury page hasn't been updated and he has been out for the designated time. I can assure you he is fit to play

-------------------------Timo Horn-------------
----Lahm--------Dante------Hummels-----Schmelzer
---------Ilkay Gundogan-------Marco Veratti-----
Lamela-------------------Isco-------------J.Draxler
---------------------Mario Manzukic--------

Subs: Muriel, Martinez, De Sciglio, Marquinhos, Niang


Philipp Lahm -Rampage down the right with his brilliant attacking quality, but track back to prevent runs. Must whip crosses in to the feet of attackers. Must really look to drift inside and try to link up with the RW, to get around the defence.

Dante and Hummels-Must stay strong, win everything in the air, put body on the line, and be a rock in defence. Hummels comes up for corners. Dante goes for shots and quicker players, and is a great passer, so must look to block every shot and pass the ball brilliantly out of defence. Hummels is great in the air so must win every header, and be strong in the tackle. We must make sure we don't give away any fouls in and around the box, keep our hands away from the ball, and not lunge in to tackles

Shmelzer-Do what hes done at Dortmund, defend brilliantly, whilst also coming inside to join up with attack. Look to send in whipping balls into Mandzukic. When space opens up in front of him when Draxler comes inside, Schmelzer must eat up ground as he rushes in to fill the void left over, and temporarily act as a LM, before running back to safety

Marco Veratti and Gundogan-Veratti more defensive, make himself a strong and physical presence, keeping the ball rolling and shooting from long range. Gundogan must link up the midfield to attack, and gives us that flair which can control a game. Verratti's an excellent passer of the ball, so must look to play in our forwards, but his role as a DM is to prevent attacks, so will be a guard to the back four and control the game from deep midfield. Gundogan will be playing box top box, and his great shooting ability along with his newly found drive from midfield will see him make powerful runs at the defence. However, he must not neglect defensive duties, and slip into a dictator role when we need more control in midfield

Erik Lamela-The young star should look to break into the opposition box using a wide range of skills, and use his brilliant feet to jiggle away from tackles. Must link up well with Isco to cause a devastating partnership. His stats for Roma this season shows how good he is, and is still only 20, and the front three behind Mandy is absolutely-fecking-devastating. He thrives off runs past the opposition, and his finishing is top notch, so when he gets the ball in a dangerous are, he must look up and and float one in for Mandy, or skin his man and look to get shots away

Isco-The main player. He will be much better in the centre, and must look to get brilliant sly passes into the feet of Mandzukic. He will look to run up and support Mandi, but also use his fantastic vision to send in through Balls out wide. He has brilliant dribbling skills so will always escape attention of his man and when under pressure can find his way out. His passing is quality, so must spread the play out wide to free space, and play in our forwards, keeping our team ticking in AM

Draxler-Must drift in at all times and use his frightening pace and power to cause the RB problems. Must come in to support Mandzukic, and get his brilliant shots on target. Been crucial for Schalke, and must reproduce the form for us here in this game. His dribbling skills are up there with the best, so must use a wide array of skills to escape his man and look to be dangerous at all times

Mario Mandzukic-The man who has been doing brilliant this season, will play in the ST role. He will look to latch onto any ball, and use his magic to work the ball into an area where it will be the most dangerous. His brilliant runs will tire the opposition, and his finishing can be top class when given the opportunity. Fantastic in the air so will attack all balls in the bax, and unleash deadly shots on targets

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

Corners-Isco
Freekicks-Draxler
Penalties-De Bruyne
Captain-Dante

Subs:

Muriel > Draxer at 60, Isco goes left and we play 4-2-2-2

Aston Villa team and tactics:

------------------------Buffon-----------------------

Montoya-------Godin------Nastasic-------Kolarov

----------Vertonghen--------Iturraspe-----------------

---------------------------Xavi--------------------------------

Costa--------------------Thiago---------------------Tello

Subs:
Morata, Cuenca, de Marcos, Saviola, Martinez

Today’s game plan:
We plan to keep it as tight as possible at the back and ensure none of Swansea’s creative players get in on goal. Then we plan to use our more creative players on the counter-attack.

Jobs:

Buffon:
He will be big and strong in his one on one's with the opposition players coming into the box. He will be big and strong in the air and will stop any shots going towards him. He'll also need to command his area as well.

Montoya and Kolarov:
Both are to stay back in our half this week. Both are to defend at the back and play the ball forward to our wingers from our on half. Both need to be big and strong in their tackles and need to make sure they're given protection from our wingers. Both also need to tuck in and protect our centre backs from any balls coming into the side of our box.

Godin and Nastasic:
Both are to be big and strong in the air. Both need to be big and strong in their tackles as well. Both also need to follow runners into the box as well, and not let the ball go over the top of them for the opposition players to get on the end of. Both will need to clear the ball from the area as fast as possible and send the ball down field for our attacking players to go on the break. Both need to command our area as well.

Iturraspe and Vertonghen:
Both are to be big and strong in their tackles. Both need to sit back and protect our defence. Both will follow any runners from midfield into the box and will block any shots that are hit from outside the box. Both will also need to head the ball away should the ball go in between our defence and themselves.

Xavi:
He will be our box to box player. Whilst we haven't got the ball his duty today will be to protect Iturraspe and Vertonghen from the opposition players. When we are on the ball we want Xavi to have it, he will use his vision and play the ball out wide or forward. When he plays the ball forward he needs to make sure it falls to our wingers or strikers feet and then break forward and join our attack.

Thiago, Tello and Costa:
All three are to break from deep on the counter-attack. Whilst one of them has the ball the others will break forward and get into the box and get on the end of through balls going into the box. All three can interchange positions throughout the game and with Xavi breaking forward as well all four can get onto the end of things into the box. Whoever, is in the strikers role, the others need to tuck in and help protect our full backs from the opposition’s full-backs and wingers.

At Set pieces:
Godin and Nastasic will go forward and join Thiago and Tello in the box whilst Xavi takes the freekicks and corners with Costa standing on the edge of the box in the centre to wait for balls flying out of the box to have a strike on goal. Whilst all those are up front, Montoya, Kolarov, Iturraspe and Vertonghen will all stay back in our half and stop the opposition from breaking at our goal.
Subs:
If losing/needing a goal:
Cuenca on for Tello (70 mins)
Martinez on for Thiago (70 mins)

Cuenca and Costa will swap wings and play solo as wingers whilst Martinez will be our target man.

Subs if winning:
Morata on for Thiago (80 mins)
De Marcos on for Tello (80 mins)

Set pieces:
Corners: Xavi
Freekicks: Xavi
Pens: Xavi
Captain: Xavi

WHU tactics:

-------------------Krul--------------------

de Vrij---Agger-------BMI-----Robinson

----------Schone------Clasie---------------

--------------------Eriksen------------------

Narsingh--------Sigthorsson------Fischer

Subs:
Chalobah, Maher, Jese, Djuricic, Vilhena

Set pieces:
Freekicks: Eriksen
Corners: Narsingh
Pens: Fischer
Captain: Agger do do do.

Game plan:
We plan to keep it as tight as possible and hit the opposition on the counter attack.

Jobs:
Krul:
He is to be big and strong in one-on-one's with the opposition players. He needs to be big and strong in the air and collect things with ease, he also needs to command his area. Krul will easily palm any shot away from the goal when he makes a save.

de Vrij and Robinson:
These two are to sit back and not get forward. Both need to make sure their don't let the opposition get a sniff at getting into the box from out wide and will also need to stop the opposition getting crosses into the box. Both need to be big and strong in their tackles as well. Both need to get the ball forward for our wingers to break onto down the pitch.

Agger and BMI:
Both need to be big and strong in their tackles. Both need to make sure their follow the runs of the opposition's players and stop them from getting into the box. Both need to be big and strong in the air and command the players around them.

Claise and Schone:
Both are to be big and strong in their tackles and help protect the back four. Whilst the opposition piles pressure on either of our full backs these two will need to pull out wide and protect them from attacks. But also their need to protect our centre backs aswell.

Eriksen:
His job is to protect Claise and Schone from any opposition player looking to get past them. Also whilst Claise and Schone might be protecting our full-backs Eriksen will need to fill in and protect our centre backs. But we also need Eriksen to use his vision and play the ball out wide or break with it from midfield himself and join the attack. Eriksen can have a shot on goal.

Narsingh and Fischer:
These two are to break from the half way line with pace after getting the ball off our full-backs and breaking with pace and getting through balls into the box for Sigthorsson to get on the end of or crosses. These two can have a shot on goal.

Sigthorsson:
His job is to get himself in the box and get on the end of anything that comes into the box either in the air or low on the ground.

At set pieces:
Agger and BMI are to join Sigthorsson and Fischer up in the box when we have freekicks or corners. Whilst Eriksen will stay outside the box at corners and get on the end of any ball that comes flying back out, with Narsingh doing the same for freekicks. de Vrij, Robinson, Claise and Schone will stay in our own half to avoid been done on the counter attack.

Subs:
Maher on for Eriksen (80 mins)
Just for some added pace.

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-------------------Begovic-------------------
Walker---Smalling----Subotic-------Cole
-------------------Martinez-------------------
------------Wilshere----Kroos--------------
------Reus--------------------Gotze---------
----------------------Villa----------------------

Subs - Tremmel, Vermijl, M.Keane, Powell, Beckham, Hoolahan, Ramirez.

Tactics -

General - Fulham are an energetic team in the middle, so rather than play 4-2-3-1 and let them run at two deeper lying midfielders, we're playing 4-1-2-2-1, to make sure Fulhams CM's are too occupied to get forward to any real consequence. Kroos, Martinez and Wilshere need to control the ball, and play in Gotze and Reus as they look to cut inside away from Fulham's FB's. Need a good sharp, direct attack today.

GK - Begovic is a vocal organiser, and his well drilled defences prove him to be of the upmost quality at this. This will help out our young defence meaning we'll keep Fulham's attackers marked out of the game. Needs to be brave when attacking crosses, but he'll have a clear run with the CB's occupying Mandzukic.

CB - Respond to Begovic's commands, with Martinez picking up Fulham's No.10 it should be Smalling and Subotic up against Mandzukic. Subotic offers power and strength, whilst Smalling brings a finesse to the art of defending. They complement each other very well, and should keep him quiet. When defending crosses Subotic will bully Mandzukic out the way (legally!) meaning Begovic has a clear run at punching or catching the cross.

FB - No need to get forward today, Cole and Walker are up against some dangerous, if inexperienced wingers. Cole is still one of the best LB's in the world, so he should be safe, using his decade and a bit's worth of experience to nullify Lamela. Walker is a pacy FB, so he will get tight to Draxler and try and win the ball before he can control it properly, if he doesn't take it first time, he's quick enough to keep up with the German and block any attempts at cutting inside or crossing the ball.

DM - Martinez is to pick up Fulham's no.10 and cut out their heartbeat. When he's on the ball he'll look to get it to Wilshere and Kroos early on, so he can concentrate on keeping tabs on Isco. If we can mark Isco out the game, Fulham lose the core of their attacking talent. The pace, physicality and talent that Martinez possesses make him the perfect player for this job.

CM - Kroos and Wilshere are two brilliant passers, together, with Reus, Goetze, Villa and the back pass to Martinez all available we should see these two get on the ball and dominate the game. The options they have mean they'll rarely be left waiting for a team mate in space. Playing higher up the pitch, they'll force Fulham's CM's to choose to either attack, and leave their defence hopelessly outnumbered, or try and play it out from deep, at which they're less able to do.

AM - Reus and Gotze are really given a free rein here tonight. They're nt tethered to the wings, and are encouraged to zip inside and get close to the CM's. If they see space out wide then use it, it can pull the defence all over the place. Reus should use his pace to power past Fulham's defence before cutting it back for Villa, or taking a shot on himself. Gotze will look to pass and move to create space before unleashing killer through balls for Villa and or Reus.

Villa - Keep tabs on where Gotze and Reus are, they're his main supply line, when Reus breaks through he'll run past the defenders meaning they're facing their own goal. Same applies for Gotze through balls, turn the defenders the wrong way, making their life much harder.

Subs -

Winning at 70 - Wilshere drop back, Martinez, Wilshere and Kroos need to use their quick passing to keep the ball moving and the Fulham players chasing. Bring on Jese for Villa, his powerful running will do the same job that Villa was doing but with fresh legs against a tired defence.

Losing/Drawing at 60 - FB's given more leeway to get forward, Reus and Gotze play inside rather than out wide, stretches the pitch and causes huge amounts of confusion for Fulham.

at 80 - Smalling off, Jese on. Martinez goes to CB, Wilshere and Kroos play as 2 CM. Jese on LW and Reus on RW. Gotze plays through the centre.

FK - Gotze
PN - Villa
LC - Villa
RC - Kroos

--------------------Reina
Zabby-----Barzagli-----Miranda-----Filipe
----------Khedira----Schweiny
James-------------Bale--------------Auby
--------------------Suarez

Subs; McCarthy, Corchia, Alderweireld, Davies, Kehl, Totti, Benteke

Overview
An attacking 4-2-3-1 formation based on retaining possession and using pace, power and trickery to pressurise the defence.

Keeper
When distributing the ball, he should look to keep it simple and play the percentage pass. At crosses and set pieces, should look to punch rather than attempt any catches with an element of risk.

FBs
Both FB's will look to venture forward in this game, Filipe will look to exploit the space left by Auby, whilst Zabaleta will look to use his engine to get up and down for 90 minutes. When defending, they should look to just track the wingers and aim to show them onto their weaker foot.

Centre Backs
Miranda will compete for the aerial balls, with Barzagli looking to collect the 2nd ball, when the ball is on the floor, when the ball is on the floor, Barzagli will be the guy to meet with the striker, and Miranda will be making a covering run. When on the ball, they should look to play it simple to a man in space.

DMs
When the opposition have the ball, both our CM's will look to play a pressing game on the opponents CMs, not giving them time on the ball and harassing them into errors. When on the ball Schweiny will keep the side ticking over, looking to recieve the ball in space. and find one of the front 4 who are all looking to get into space. Khedira will just look to cover the back 4 should Schweiny or one of the front 4 lose possession.

AM
Bale will look to drift around the final third looking to use his pace when on the ball to run at the opposition and look to either draw a foul or take on the shot himself. When the ball is played up to Benteke, he should look to run past him to try and take advantage of the aerial battles that Benteke will win or from alittle pass if the ball is on the ground. When defending, he will look to keep tabs on the opposition playmaker.

Wingers
Both wingers will initially start out wide looking to stretch the play, both wingers have the ability to stay wide and put a cross in, or cut inside to try and make space for a shot, so should look to pick out which is the best option at the time. when they cut inside, both full backs will be getting forward to keep stretching the width of the defensive line and providing the wide option.

Striker
He will look to peel off the CBs and look to get into space between the lines of the defence and DMs to pick up the ball and then look to use his close control and trickery to take defenders out of the game. When he comes deeper to pick the ball up off Schweiny, the other 3 attackers will be running ahead of him to give him options to pass. When defending, he should look to harass the opposition CBs to try and pressure them into making a mistake.

Set Pieces

Corners
Bale and Schweiny take inswinging corners. the 2 CB's go into the box, the FB's and Khedira stay back to prevent counters, the CB's, Auby and Suarez attack the ball, the non-taker and James take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.

Free Kicks - For direct FK's Bale will shoot. For Indirect FKs, follow the same directives for Corners

Penalties - Schweiny is the designated taker.

Subs
76 mins

If Winning - Kehl for Auby - slots alongside Khedira, Bale out wide and drifting in.

Drawing/Losing - Totti for Auby - Totti RW, James LW Totti will look to drift in from the right.

82
If Winning - Alderweireld and Benteke for Filipe and James - Zabby goes to LB, Alder to RB. Suarez RW An element of timewasting, but also adds extra height at the back to deal with the desperate lumps forward. With Benteke providing the outball to relieve pressure.

If Drawing/Losing

Benteke for Auby - go to 4-4-2, Benteke goes upfront and Bale LW, the 3 attackers look to feed off Bentekes knockdowns and we keep them close to him with the full backs putting the crosses in.

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--------------------Reina
Zabby-----Barzagli-----Miranda-----Filipe
----------Khedira----Schweiny
James-------------Bale--------------Auby
--------------------Suarez

Subs; McCarthy, Corchia, Alderweireld, Davies, Kehl, Totti, Benteke

Overview
An attacking 4-2-3-1 formation based on retaining possession and using pace, power and trickery to pressurise the defence.

Keeper
When distributing the ball, he should look to keep it simple and play the percentage pass. At crosses and set pieces, should look to punch rather than attempt any catches with an element of risk.

FBs
Both FB's will look to venture forward in this game, Filipe will look to exploit the space left by Auby, whilst Zabaleta will look to use his engine to get up and down for 90 minutes. When defending, they should look to just track the wingers and aim to show them onto their weaker foot.

Centre Backs
Miranda will compete for the aerial balls, with Barzagli looking to collect the 2nd ball, when the ball is on the floor, when the ball is on the floor, Barzagli will be the guy to meet with the striker, and Miranda will be making a covering run. When on the ball, they should look to play it simple to a man in space.

DMs
When the opposition have the ball, both our CM's will look to play a pressing game on the opponents CMs, not giving them time on the ball and harassing them into errors. When on the ball Schweiny will keep the side ticking over, looking to recieve the ball in space. and find one of the front 4 who are all looking to get into space. Khedira will just look to cover the back 4 should Schweiny or one of the front 4 lose possession.

AM
Bale will look to drift around the final third looking to use his pace when on the ball to run at the opposition and look to either draw a foul or take on the shot himself. When the ball is played up to Benteke, he should look to run past him to try and take advantage of the aerial battles that Benteke will win or from alittle pass if the ball is on the ground. When defending, he will look to keep tabs on the opposition playmaker.

Wingers
Both wingers will initially start out wide looking to stretch the play, both wingers have the ability to stay wide and put a cross in, or cut inside to try and make space for a shot, so should look to pick out which is the best option at the time. when they cut inside, both full backs will be getting forward to keep stretching the width of the defensive line and providing the wide option.

Striker
He will look to peel off the CBs and look to get into space between the lines of the defence and DMs to pick up the ball and then look to use his close control and trickery to take defenders out of the game. When he comes deeper to pick the ball up off Schweiny, the other 3 attackers will be running ahead of him to give him options to pass. When defending, he should look to harass the opposition CBs to try and pressure them into making a mistake.

Set Pieces

Corners
Bale and Schweiny take inswinging corners. the 2 CB's go into the box, the FB's and Khedira stay back to prevent counters, the CB's, Auby and Suarez attack the ball, the non-taker and James take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.

Free Kicks - For direct FK's Bale will shoot. For Indirect FKs, follow the same directives for Corners

Penalties - Schweiny is the designated taker.

Subs
76 mins

If Winning - Kehl for Auby - slots alongside Khedira, Bale out wide and drifting in.

Drawing/Losing - Totti for Auby - Totti RW, James LW Totti will look to drift in from the right.

82
If Winning - Alderweireld and Benteke for Filipe and James - Zabby goes to LB, Alder to RB. Suarez RW An element of timewasting, but also adds extra height at the back to deal with the desperate lumps forward. With Benteke providing the outball to relieve pressure.

If Drawing/Losing

Benteke for Auby - go to 4-4-2, Benteke goes upfront and Bale LW, the 3 attackers look to feed off Bentekes knockdowns and we keep them close to him with the full backs putting the crosses in.

Cup Tactics

--------------------------Reina
Corchia-----Miranda-----Alderw-----Blind
---------------Kehl-------Hughes
Auby---------------De Jong-------------Totti
---------------------Benteke

Subs; Filipe, Zabaleta, Barzagli, Schweiny, Khedira, Bale, Suarez

Keeper
When distributing the ball, he should keep it simple. At crosses and set pieces, should look to punch rather than attempt risky catches.

Full Backs
Both FB's will look to employ a fairly attacking game, providing the width as the 2 wingers will be drifting inside regularly.

Centre Backs
Miranda will compete for the aerial balls, with Alderweireld looking to collect the 2nd ball, when the ball is on the floor, the onus is more on blocks than tackles.

DMs
When they have the ball, both our CM's will look to play a pressing game on the opponents CMs, not giving them time on the ball and harassing them into errors. When on the ball Hughes will keep it simple and low risk. Kehl will just sit in front of the back 4 to help against counter attacks.

AM
De Jong will be playing just off the striker, looking to make himself a bit of space and looking to make late runs into the box when crosses are put in.

Wingers
Boh wingers will look to drift inside, with totti being more of a supplier, and Auby using his pace to get alongside Benteke and feed off him.

Striker
He should have his back to goal, and use his strength to hold off the cbs and bring others into play, then move into attacking positions himself.

Subs
67 mins

Winning - Schweiny for Michu - slots into CM for a midfield 3

Drawing/Losing - Bale for Michu


78 mins

Winning - Zabby and Filipe for Corchia and Totti

Losing/Drawing - Filipe and Suarez for Corchia and Hughes - Go to 4-4-2

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

--------------------Reina
Zabby-----Barzagli-----Miranda-----Filipe
----------Khedira----Schweiny
James-----------De Jong--------------Bale
--------------------Suarez

Subs; McCarthy, Corchia, Alderweireld, Aubameyang, Kehl, Totti, Benteke

Overview
An attacking 4-2-3-1 formation based on retaining possession and using pace, power and trickery to pressurise the defence.

Keeper
When distributing the ball, he should look to keep it simple and play the percentage pass. At crosses and set pieces, should look to punch rather than attempt any catches with an element of risk.

FBs
Both FB's will be acting as the wide players when going forward to stretch the play as our wingers will be predominantly cutting inside. When defending, they should look to just track the wingers and aim to show them onto their weaker foot and outmuscle the wingers.

Centre Backs
Miranda will compete for the aerial balls, with Barzagli looking to collect the 2nd ball, when the ball is on the floor, when the ball is on the floor, Miranda will be the guy to meet with the striker, and Barzagli will be making a covering run. When on the ball, if the opposition are letting them have time on the ball, they can venture forward a little to give our midfield a chance to get into space, otherwise they should look to play it simple to a man in space to retain posession.

DMs
When the opposition have the ball, both our CM's will look to play a pressing game on the opponents CMs, not giving them time on the ball and harassing them into errors. When on the ball Schweiny will keep the side ticking over, looking to recieve the ball in space. and find one of the front 4 who are all looking to get into space. Khedira will just look to cover the back 4 should Schweiny or one of the front 4 lose possession.

AM
De Jong will be playing just off the striker, looking to be the link between the midfield and attack. When our wingers cut inside, he should look to slightly drift into the free space left by the winger to give them a bit more space in the middle of the park. When defending, he should keep tabs on the DMs, not letting a simple ball be played to them.

Wingers
Both wingers will initially start out wide looking to stretch the play, but predominantly cutting inside to try and make space for a shot, so should look to pick out which is the best option at the time. when they cut inside, both full backs will be getting forward to keep stretching the width of the defensive line and providing the wide option. The wingers will occasionally swap wings to keep an air of unpredictability to our attacking direction.

Striker
He will look to peel off the CBs and look to get into space between the lines of the defence and DMs to pick up the ball and then look to use his close control and trickery to take defenders out of the game. When he comes deeper to pick the ball up off Schweiny, the other 3 attackers will be running ahead of him to give him options to pass. When defending, he should look to harass the opposition CBs to try and pressure them into making a mistake.

Set Pieces

Corners
Bale and Schweiny take inswinging corners. the 2 CB's go into the box, the FB's and Khedira stay back to prevent counters, the CB's, De Jong and Suarez attack the ball, the non-taker and James take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.

Free Kicks - For direct FK's Bale will shoot. For Indirect FKs, follow the same directives for Corners

Penalties - Schweiny is the designated taker.

Subs
76 mins

If Winning - Kehl for De Jong - sits behind Khedira and Schweiny.

Drawing/Losing - Auby for De Jong - Auby RW, James LW, Bale AM.

82
If Winning - Alderweireld and Benteke for Filipe and James - Zabby goes to LB, Alder to RB. Suarez RW An element of timewasting, but also adds extra height at the back to deal with the desperate lumps forward. With Benteke providing the outball to relieve pressure.

If Drawing/Losing

Benteke for James - go to 4-4-2, Benteke goes upfront the other 3 attackers look to feed off Bentekes knockdowns and we keep them close to him with the full backs putting the crosses in.

-------------------------Timo Horn-------------
----Lahm--------Dante------Hummels-----Schmelzer
---------Ilkay Gundogan-------Marco Veratti-----
Lamela-------------------Isco-------------J.Draxler
---------------------Jackson martinez--------

Subs: Muriel, Inigo Martinez, De Sciglio, Marquinhos, Verratti


Philipp Lahm -Rampage down the right with his brilliant attacking quality, but track back to prevent runs. Must whip crosses in to the feet of attackers. Must really look to drift inside and try to link up with the RW, to get around the defence.

Dante and Hummels-Must stay strong, win everything in the air, put body on the line, and be a rock in defence. Hummels comes up for corners. Dante goes for shots and quicker players, and is a great passer, so must look to block every shot and pass the ball brilliantly out of defence. Hummels is great in the air so must win every header, and be strong in the tackle. We must make sure we don't give away any fouls in and around the box, keep our hands away from the ball, and not lunge in to tackles

Shmelzer-Do what hes done at Dortmund, defend brilliantly, whilst also coming inside to join up with attack. Look to send in whipping balls into Mandzukic. When space opens up in front of him when Draxler comes inside, Schmelzer must eat up ground as he rushes in to fill the void left over, and temporarily act as a LM, before running back to safety

Lucas Leiva and Gundogan-Lucasmore defensive, make himself a strong and physical presence, keeping the ball rolling and shooting from long range. Gundogan must link up the midfield to attack, and gives us that flair which can control a game. Lucas is a decent passer of the ball, so must look to play in our forwards, but his role as a DM is to prevent attacks, so will be a guard to the back four and control the game from deep midfield. Gundogan will be playing box top box, and his great shooting ability along with his newly found drive from midfield will see him make powerful runs at the defence. However, he must not neglect defensive duties, and slip into a dictator role when we need more control in midfield. Gundogan must drive the team from deep, and press the opposition up the park

Erik Lamela-The young star should look to break into the opposition box using a wide range of skills, and use his brilliant feet to jiggle away from tackles. Must link up well with Isco to cause a devastating partnership. He thrives off runs past the opposition, and his finishing is top notch, so when he gets the ball in a dangerous are, he must look up and and float one in for Martinez, or skin his man and look to get shots away. Lamela has the pace to cause the opposition problems, and he must cut in on his favourite left foot, or play in crosses to Martinez

Isco-The main player. He will be much better in the centre, and must look to get brilliant sly passes into the feet of Mandzukic. He will look to run up and support Mandi, but also use his fantastic vision to send in through Balls out wide. He has brilliant dribbling skills so will always escape attention of his man and when under pressure can find his way out. His passing is quality, so must spread the play out wide to free space, and play in our forwards, keeping our team ticking in AM. Our iwngers will be making runs, and Isco will have the vision to play them in down the flanks. Isco must often join the 2 strikers in or around the box, trying to cause problems.

Draxler-Must drift in at all times and use his frightening pace and power to cause the RB problems. Must come in to support Martinez, and get his brilliant shots on target. He has been crucial for Schalke, and must reproduce the form for us here in this game. His dribbling skills are up there with the best, so must use a wide array of skills to escape his man and look to be dangerous at all times. Draxler's best asset is when he drifts in from the left, onto his right foot before either going for a curler, or taking on his man before twisting and turning his way into the box. When he sees Schmelzer bomb past him, he must start to come inside, as he knows he has a player outside him

Jackson Martinez-The man who has been doing brilliant this season, will play in the ST role. He will look to latch onto any ball, and use his magic to work the ball into an area where it will be the most dangerous. His brilliant runs will tire the opposition, and his finishing can be top class when given the opportunity. Fantastic in the air so will attack all balls in the box, and unleash deadly shots on targets. He has extreme physicality which will help him deal with the defenders, and must look to aim every header into the net. When he is outside the box, any long balls that fall onto his head must see him flicking it back out to the wingers to run onto.

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

Corners-Isco
Freekicks-Draxler
Penalties-Isco
Captain-Dante

Subs:

On 60: Muriel > Draxer at 60, Isco goes left and we play 4-2-2-2

On 60 If Losing: Verratti > Lucas Leiva, offers defensive protection, but is more of a threat from deep

If winning on 65: Verratti > Gundogan, more defensive options to keep the midfield ticking

-----------------------Begovic----------------------
-Walker---Smalling-----Subotic------Cole--
--------------Wilshere----Martinez-------------
-Marco Reus-------Kroos------Mario Gotze-
-------------------------Villa-------------------------

Subs: Tremmel, M.Keane, Vermijl, Hoolahan, Jese, Powell, McManaman

Tactics -

General - At home against Stoke today, a relegation battling side, so we want to go out and trounce them for the fans. Get on the ball early and attack from the whistle, get the fans geed up and behind us to intimidate Stoke. The midfield trio of Kroos, Wilshere and Martinez will ensure ball retention, whilst Gotze, Villa and Reus off an attacking threat that no defence will keep out.

GK - Begovic is known for his organizing and command of his area, so he'll ensure our CBs are always well placed to fend of Stoke's attacks. When attacking he'll get the ball out quickly, all our players can play football, so he can keep it low and short rather than hoofing it forward.

CB - Subotic and Smalling provide the perfect combination of talent, power, and precision in their abilities. Subotic will deal with the more physical threats, whilst Smalling can quite easily deal with any attacks along the ground. Obviously they can both perform the both roles, so whoever is targeted by Stoke shouldn't be a problem. When getting it out, keep it low, both can play football so they needn't resort to smashing it up.

FB - Walker and Cole are today's FBs. Cole, nothing much more needs to be said on his abilities really, if he gets the chance he can get up and add width to the attack, but defending is his primary duty obviously. Walker is more offensive than Cole, so we'll not shackle him today, he's allowed to get up, and he's quick, young and energetic enough to get back and cover when Stoke break against us. Both should aim to provide width when attacking.

CM - Wilshere and Martinez, two superb young CMs. Both possess tenacity, energy, passing ability and vision, so they can choose to sit deep and pull the strings from there, or, if they see space, run the ball further up the pitch, lending their presence to the attack. Both are well schooled in the art of passing and moving, so keeping hold of the ball is nearly guaranteed today. When defending, Martinez will take the lead and pick up the major threat, Wilshere will deal with anyone who drops deep or pushes up to help the No.10.

AM - Reus, Kroos and Gotze, the German trinity. It's highly likely that Reus will be up against Alba, so he'll look to exploit any space left by the marauding LB. Gotze is on the left today, and will look to get inside, and play one twos with Villa and Kroos to break through Stoke's defence. Kroos will drop deeper looking for the ball from Wilshere and Martinez, before bringing it forward and choosing his best option, or even shooting himself which he can do wonderfully. Really, these three are allowed to run free today, they play a very natural game, so they will just be asked to do what comes naturally to them, this freedom will really stretch Stoke's defence because they won't be able to plan against our attacks.

ST - Villa will alternate between dropping deep, and adding another body into that AM area, and playing off the shoulder, using his pace and vision to get onto through balls. When he drops deep, he'll act as a pivot for one twos off of the two wide men before racing into the box after them for rebound and cut backs.

Subs -

Losing/Drawing -

60 - Jese on for Subotic - Martinez drops in CB, Kroos to CM, Gotze to no.10 and Jese on the left. Much more attacking CM pairing, and a more 'footballing' CB duo. Plus the added energy and raw power of Jese which is perhaps a better symmetry of Reus on the other side which should tear Stoke apart when they're tired.

Winning -

No changes, we've had a long (self imposed ) break so all our players are fresh, and bar Cole and Villa are all very young and sprightly so they shouldn't need to come off.

FK - Gotze/Kroos/Reus
PN - Villa
LC - Reus
RC - Kroos

Aston Villa team and tactics:

---------------------------Buffon-----------------------

Montoya-------Nastasic-------Vertonghen----Kolarov

----------------------------Iturraspe-------------------------

Costa--------------Xavi-------------Thiago-----------Tello

------------------------------Aguero------------------------------

Subs:
Schwarzer, Godin, Taylor, Wallace, de Marcos, Maher, Morata

Game plan:
Tippy tappy football, tiring the opposition out by keeping possession for long periods of time and hitting them when their tired. Making sure to keep it tight at the back to avoid goals going into the net from the opposition.

Subs:
if losing/drawing:
Maher on for Thiago - 70 mins
Morata on for Tello - 70 mins

if winning:
no changes

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

----------krul
Richardson chalobah agger Robinson
--------------nordtveit
------eriksen. Clasie
Fischer-------------------henshall
-----------Santa Cruz

Stekelenburg
De vrij
Viergever
Schone
Narsingh
Samper
Wells

Goalkeeper

Krul will remain strong and command his penalty area. Should he received the ball he will either lay it short to Robinson, Richardson or chalobah or, if under pressure hit it long to Santa Cruz. He will favour a catch over a punch but should not stray too far off his line to do so. He will be quick to close down an on-rushing striker.

Full-backs

They shall be quick to get forward when we are on the attack but must defend quickly as well. They shall play more of a wing back role, lining up with nordtveit instead of agger ect. Richardson will be given license to shoot from range and cut inside however Robinson will run towards the by-line and attempt to cross it. Both should show opposing wingers out wide and be forceful in the challenge.

Centre-backs

Chalobah will be allowed to dictate the play from the back with agger providing the physical presence. Chalobah will push to be in line with nordtveit when we have possession with agger playing as a sweeper. Both players should go up for set pieces with chalobah challenging the keeper and agger on the back post. Agger will lead by example and Marshall the players on the pitch.

Centre-mids

Nordtveit will remain strong and will refrain from attacking except for set pieces when he will be sat on the edge of the penalty area to hit the ball back in. Eriksen will be the creative presence in the midfield. He will take free-kicks and corners and will support the striker. Clasie will blend between the two jobs. All players will be unafraid to be forceful in the challenge.

Wingers

henshall will be expected to track back to support Robinson but will be left upfield when defending a corner. He will run to the by-line to get crosses in aimed at Santa Cruz. Fischer shall remain forward but be given license to cut inside onto his stronger foot and shoot. He will be backup set piece taker.

Strikers

Santa Cruz will be a target man and will be strong in the air. He will bring eriksen, henshall and Fischer into the game. He will defend set pieces but otherwise stay forward. He will not be afraid to shoot if he sees the opportunity.

Attacking set pieces

Balls will be aimed either towards Santa Cruz at the penalty spot or agger at the back post, if the ball comes to the edge of the area nordtveit and Richardson will be allowed to shoot

Substitutes

If we are winning

Samper on for clasie 70 mins
Wells on for Fischer 80 mins

If we are losing

narsingh on for nordtveit ( move narsingh up front ) 60 mins
Schone on for clasie 65 mins

-------------------------Timo Horn-------------
----Lahm--------Dante------Hummels-----Schmelzer
---------Ilkay Gundogan-------Fernandinho-----
Lamela-------------------Isco-------------J.Draxler
---------------------Jackson Martinez--------

Subs: Muriel, Inigo Martinez, De Sciglio, Marquinhos, Verratti


Philipp Lahm -Rampage down the right with his brilliant attacking quality, but track back to prevent runs. Must whip crosses in to the feet of attackers. Must really look to drift inside and try to link up with the RW, to get around the defence.

Dante and Hummels-Must stay strong, win everything in the air, put body on the line, and be a rock in defence. Hummels comes up for corners. Dante goes for shots and quicker players, and is a great passer, so must look to block every shot and pass the ball brilliantly out of defence. Hummels is great in the air so must win every header, and be strong in the tackle. We must make sure we don't give away any fouls in and around the box, keep our hands away from the ball, and not lunge in to tackles

Shmelzer-Do what hes done at Dortmund, defend brilliantly, whilst also coming inside to join up with attack. Look to send in whipping balls into Mandzukic. When space opens up in front of him when Draxler comes inside, Schmelzer must eat up ground as he rushes in to fill the void left over, and temporarily act as a LM, before running back to safety

Fernandinho and Gundogan-'Dinho more defensive, make himself a strong and physical presence, keeping the ball rolling and shooting from long range. Gundogan must link up the midfield to attack, and gives us that flair which can control a game. Fernandinho is a decent passer of the ball, so must look to play in our forwards, but his role as a DM is to prevent attacks, so will be a guard to the back four and control the game from deep midfield. Gundogan will be playing box top box, and his great shooting ability along with his newly found drive from midfield will see him make powerful runs at the defence. However, he must not neglect defensive duties, and slip into a dictator role when we need more control in midfield. Gundogan must drive the team from deep, and press the opposition up the park

Erik Lamela-The young star should look to break into the opposition box using a wide range of skills, and use his brilliant feet to jiggle away from tackles. Must link up well with Isco to cause a devastating partnership. He thrives off runs past the opposition, and his finishing is top notch, so when he gets the ball in a dangerous are, he must look up and and float one in for Martinez, or skin his man and look to get shots away. Lamela has the pace to cause the opposition problems, and he must cut in on his favourite left foot, or play in crosses to Martinez

Isco-The main player. He will be much better in the centre, and must look to get brilliant sly passes into the feet of Martinez. He will look to run up and support Martinez, but also use his fantastic vision to send in through Balls out wide. He has brilliant dribbling skills so will always escape attention of his man and when under pressure can find his way out. His passing is quality, so must spread the play out wide to free space, and play in our forwards, keeping our team ticking in AM. Our wingers will be making runs, and Isco will have the vision to play them in down the flanks. Isco must often join the 2 strikers in or around the box, trying to cause problems.

Draxler-Must drift in at all times and use his frightening pace and power to cause the RB problems. Must come in to support Martinez, and get his brilliant shots on target. He has been crucial for Schalke, and must reproduce the form for us here in this game. His dribbling skills are up there with the best, so must use a wide array of skills to escape his man and look to be dangerous at all times. Draxler's best asset is when he drifts in from the left, onto his right foot before either going for a curler, or taking on his man before twisting and turning his way into the box. When he sees Schmelzer bomb past him, he must start to come inside, as he knows he has a player outside him

Jackson Martinez-The man who has been doing brilliant this season, will play in the ST role. He will look to latch onto any ball, and use his magic to work the ball into an area where it will be the most dangerous. His brilliant runs will tire the opposition, and his finishing can be top class when given the opportunity. Fantastic in the air so will attack all balls in the box, and unleash deadly shots on targets. He has extreme physicality which will help him deal with the defenders, and must look to aim every header into the net. When he is outside the box, any long balls that fall onto his head must see him flicking it back out to the wingers to run onto.

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

Corners-Isco
Freekicks-Draxler
Penalties-Isco
Captain-Dante

Subs:

On 60: Muriel > Draxer at 60, Isco goes left and we play 4-2-2-2

On 60 If Losing: Verratti > Lucas Leiva, offers defensive protection, but is more of a threat from deep

If winning on 65: Verratti > Gundogan, more defensive options to keep the midfield ticking

-----------------------Ter Stegen------------------------
Rafael---------Juan--------N'Koulou-----A.Sandro
-----------------Sandro--------Vidal----------------------
Blaszcykowski------Coutinho-------El Sharawwy
-------------------------Lewandowski--------------------

Subs: will name later

Game plan:
We are at home to Fulham, we wont mind them pressuring us a little as we can hit them on the break but we will be solid, tight and Organised, We will not be over committed or make silly mistakes, they will play their passes carefully and the defense will clear their lines when needed. My team will always look to win the second ball. The team will look to play simple passes and will always start from the back, if the midfield run out of options they shouldn’t be afraid to start again from the back. The team will look to keep the ball on the floor as much as possible as we are not the tallest team and this may give the other team the advantage. We will look to play wider with the wide players keeping the options open for the team. When my team are crossing the ball drilled crosses will be preferred.
When it comes to the opposition we will look to close them down quickly and give them no time on the ball, always trying to make them rush their passes and cause mistakes. We will look to disrupt the tempo of the game and ideally we will want dictate the tempo ourselves. We will show their wide players onto their weaker foot and into the corner.

<b>Ter Stegen:</b>
Stegen is a decent keeper and he will look to demand his area, he will collect/punch crosses and he will collect loose balls that come into the box. He will use a big voice if he wants the ball left by the defenders.

<b>Rafael and Sandro: </b>
(Attacking) – They will look to receive the ball from the keeper and start attacks from the back but I don’t want them to hoof the ball they will look to pass the ball out. When the team are attacking I would like both players to push up and provide an option for the wide men. I would also like them to overlap to also help the wide men and put in a decent crosses. Both players however will need to make sure if they commit to an attack that they can get back if the opposition launch a counter attack if they are not confident then I don’t want them to push up as much.
(Defending) When these players are defending I will ask them to talk to the wide men infront of them if they need cover or help. I will ask for these players to stick tight to the opposition wide men and to show them onto their weaker foot to weaken the cross and guide them into the corner and try to concede a throw in rather than a throw in. If a CB commits to an attack I would like these players to cover and holes in the defense that need to be covered.

<b>Juan and N’Koulou:</b>
(Attacking) – Both of the defenders will look to collect the ball from the goalkeeper and they will look to start attacks by passing the ball into the midfield however if there is no opening in midfield they should look for the long ball (preferably out wide) or they should not be shy to keep it in the defense and encourage players to make openings for them. For corners both players should go up and one or both of the full backs will cover.
(Defending) – N’Koulou will mark the main striker he will stick close to him and will use his power to beat the player in the air, he will show him onto his weaker foot and look to dispossess him without giving away any silly fouls.
Juan will take the second striker or he will provide cover for Kaboul and will clean up loose balls. If he is marking another striker I would also like him to make the player play on his weaker foot and show him away from goal.

<b>Sandro:</b>
(Attacking) – Sandro will look to use the ball well and he will play simple passes he will look to collect the ball from the defence and spread the ball around and create space for other players, When he can he will look to spread the ball wide especially when the middle of the pitch gets congested. Sandro will not really push on he will be the midfielder to sit back in the attacks.
(Defending) – Sandro will stick close to the opposition attacking midfielder (most creative player if no AM) and will look to dispossess him, he will not give the AM any space to receive the ball and will be onto him as soon as he can. He will look to force mistakes by closing him down. When the opposition team are attacking he will stick close to the AM even when he doesn’t have the ball. If the AM isn’t involved in the play he will need to close others down around him but the AM is his priority.

<b>Vidal:</b>
(Attacking) – Vidal will be used as the box to box midfielder he will look to be an option for the defence to give the ball too and will look to again spread the ball around the pitch where there is space, if there is space to run into I expect him to do this as he is a powerful player with the skills to take on players. He will be the player to push forward in attacks and make himself available if its all getting abit congested. He will also push up into AM if Coutinho decides to push up to become a second striker.
(Defending) Vidal will be also defending and tracking the runs of the more advanced CM he will look to close players down quickly and if he dispossess the ball look to create an attack very quickly. He can be used to double up on the opposition wingers if our wingers are not doing the job.

<b>Kuba and El Sharawwy:</b>
(Attacking) - Kuba and El Sharawwy will look to stick to the wings when not in possession they will look to receive the ball all the time and these two will need to put a shift in. They will look to take on their defenders and get to the byline and put crosses in for the strikers, as said above drilled crosses will be better for our players to try and get onto the end of. If they are feeling more confident both players can cut inside and take on the defenders and lay the ball off or have a shot, they will be asked to mix it up and not make their play to predictable. They will use the full backs to create space in behind the defenders for them to run into. If our team win possession they need to look to run into space to create a counter attack
(Defending) – Both players will need to put a shift in defensively also they will look to track back the runs of the Forest full backs. They will look to help out our full backs by doubling up on the winger if the opposition full backs don’t commit to the attack. If our full backs commit too far forward they will also look to cover the full back positions if needed.

<b>Coutinho – </b>
(Attacking) Coutinho will be busy and will play different roles, he will look to receive the ball in the middle of the field, he will look to hold the ball up and bring others into play or he will play the ball out wide or into Suarez’s feet or behind the defence.
Coutinho can also become a second striker he will join Lewandowski up front and Vidal will fill in his space Coutinho will look to make clever runs on the shoulder of the last defender and wait for the through ball.
Coutinho will always look to get into the box when the ball is being crossed into the box to try and get onto the end as he is very good in the air and also will look for the tap in.
If Lewandowski drops deep Coutinho can push up and look to bring Lewandowski back into play if he recieves the ball in an advance position.
(Defending) – Coutinho will look to help the team out and will drop just into his own half and pressure the players who have the ball. He will also look to run on the shoulder of the defender if the opposition make a mistake.

<b>Lewandowski: </b>
(Attacking) – Lewandowski is a clinical finisher and will not be afraid to run at defenders and unleash a shot or two. He will be in the box when the crosses come into the box to try and get a tap in. He will be clever with his runs, he will be in the box when he needs to be and he can also play on the shoulder of the last defender as he can also win in a foot race.
Lewandowski may want to drop deep to collect the ball if this happens Coutinho will push and Lewandowski can use Coutinho to play off and make some room for himself.