Swansea tactics

-----------------------Diego Alves-----------------------
Caceres-------Albiol----------Rami------------Maxwell
-----------Motta--------Fellaini----Illarramendi--------
Yedlin------------------------------------------------Lallana
-------------------------Negredo---------------------------

Subs: Contento, Rio, Naughton, Lanzini, Salah, Torres, Rondon

General: Double trouble. We want to pack the midfield and over power that area by constantly get in their faces and close them down all over the midfield. We have to press them in packs and hunt them as they have techincal quality but not much they can do it that are hounded down. Ourt tempo much be high and we give them no space. Offensively we have to be direct and use the pace on our wings to supply for Negredo who will make smart runs. We will be compact in defence but flourish as we attack.

Defence
All have to be on their toes and be brave. We don't dive in and we don't try and make risky decisions. It has to be simple but direct. The CB's will be helped by our DM's but try and get to their strikers as close as possible so they don't have time to set themselves. The fullbacks will rarely go high up as they main focus is defend and stay with their respective winger. We distribute the ball quickly and also look for Yedlin and Lallana as an outlet.

Midfield
We purposely have 3 defensively built midfielders that will be dominating the midfield with their strength and be bullyish. We can't allow them to dictate so we press them as a team and push them back to their half as space will be very small and if they try a hollywood pass, we will be pouncing on it. We fight to win every ball. Motta and Illa will remain as hovering in front of the back four and helping the full-backs. Fellaini will be pressing higher up and linking up from goal-kicks. Also he is great at shielding the ball and linking up with runners. He will be key so he has the freedom of the park. Yedlin and Lallana will be working hard on both ends as Yedlin is more defensive and he can double up with Caceres easily but attacking wise, his pace will cause any defender havoc and is expected to be direct and target defenders 1v1. Lallana to have a more subtle approach and methodical by linking up and making defenders move out and exploiting that space.

Forward
Negredo is our main striker and is expected to help press defensively but he will be lurking around the back four and making smart runs to receive the ball and go for goal. Fellaini will help when he wins the ball and Negredo latches on and goes for goal. We shoot early and try and get the keeper off guard.

Subs: Salah for Yedlin 70mins. Same role

Rondon for Negredo 75mins. Same role

ASTON VILLA

Bayep Muniola a bit of everything formation

_______________________Navas___________________
___________Toprak_____Koscielny____Gustavo_______
_____________Fernandinho______Kroos_____________
________________________Koke_______________Shaw
___________Kagawa______________________________
Son__________________________Destro_____________
SUBS: Begovic, Astori, Coleman, Verratti, Honda, Vela, Benteke

Captain: Toni Kroos
Corners: Toni Kroos
Free Kicks: Toni Kroos
Penalties: Daniel Sturridge

Above is a very simple illustration, but in reality we plan to play like this:

http://sharemytactics.com/31017/

When we have the ball in their half on the attack, we expect our shape to be like this:

http://sharemytactics.com/29877/
(can’t move the keeper but we want him between our box and the half way line)

(1000 words start below)

Keeping the ball is paramount in this style of play, and holding the ball high in midfield. By holding the ball high in midfield and not just walking the ball towards the final third of the pitch, it will deprive the opposition of any opportunity to form two banks of four to shut us down. If the opposition press, Kroos will just pass the ball over them. We want players to be arriving into position as they are receiving the ball and not be in position already to get the ball. Passing of the ball will be quick, direct and on the ground. When players move the ball onto the next teammate he will then move into another position to offer another option. The team will push up and we will play our football in their half with the centre halves occupying the half way line with Fernandinho (slightly to the right) and Kroos occupying the space just in front of them. The back three, right defensive midfielder, right forward, striker, left wing-back / midfielder will form a ‘ring’ around the opposition half of the pitch, while the shape keeps shifting as players move around. The right forward and left wing-back / midfielder will push well wide normally to expand the pitch, but the right forward will cut inside regularly to attack the goal. Since the right forward is so far forward for us, Fernandinho will be expected to help cover the gap behind the right forward. The attacking midfielder, second striker and striker will have free roles where they interchange regularly with each other. The striker will pull out to the left at times to create space for the attacking midfielder and second striker to run into. The left centre half has a special job in which he will be required to push into midfield to add an extra body there while our team pressurizes the opposition in their half, offering another option for the players to recycle the ball to. Kroos will move back a few yards when this happens so he can cover the gap left open by the left centre half. Kroos will also be in charge of spraying the ball around especially to the flanks since this formation will force the opposition team to play narrower. With good timing and positioning we will always create some space in the opposition half. The two wide players are in charge of staying on the touchline most of the game to make sure that the opposition are stretched as far wide as possible to create gaps in the centre. Son will elongate their defence and never dribble from a standing start, with balls played into the front of him for him to run onto. Fernandinho in particular will be pass the ball to Son for him to attack the opposition defence directly repeatedly. Otherwise there are no particular types of passes we expect from our players except forward passes to help attack the opposition from all angles. The keeper will stay outside his box, in the middle between his goal and the half way line and clean up any over hit balls over the top and to act as the last option for any other outfield players to recycle the ball to. Setting up this way, we give the opposition no reference points to pick up from except for maybe the right forward. For our attacking corners, everyone except Kroos and Shaw will go forwards with the right forward standing outside the box to pick up any rebounds.

Defending starts from the front, when we lose the ball we press the ball back immediately in their half. When we are in their half, the two deep midfielders will press the main striker and attacking midfielder not allowing them space to look up and put a ball in behind our defence. If the opposition do happen to get a chance to turn both our midfielders, we will rush back to defend our 18 yard line and get into our defensive shape (mentioned further down). Everyone bar the striker, second striker and right forward will track back to defend our box. These three will stay up ready to break. When we don’t have the ball, the second striker and striker will mark the opposition’s deep midfielder and centre halves not allowing them the chance to recycle the ball back to them, therefore reducing their options for passes. When the opposition have the ball, our team shape will shift to a back 4 with 3 players in front of the 4 to cut passing lanes and mark opposition players. These 7 players will be defending the space and pressing the ball back aggressively while not losing the defensive shape, so when one player heads out to press, another on the same line will shift across to help cover the gap he has open. We will however not commit to tackles when the opposition attack from wide positions, we will show them onto their weaker foot, if’s shifting their player towards the centre we will crowd them out, if it’s shifting the players down the line we’ll make sure the cross doesn’t get past the first man and corner the player there while reinforcements arrive to help take the ball off that player. As soon as we get the ball, it will be moved forwards quickly to the striker or second striker or lobbed over the top for the lighting quick right forward to run onto. While this happens, the whole team will push back up to the half way line and squeeze them back into their half again. For corners and crossing free kicks, we will man mark. These are measures for when they eventually manage to break out from the half way line, otherwise our best form of defence is to keep the ball in their half. Our general positions when defending:

http://sharemytactics.com/29879/

SUBS:

WINNING / DRAWING:
70 mins: Kagawa OFF Verratti ON
80 mins: Son OFF Honda ON (winning)
Verratti will replace the tiring legs of Kagawa and help keep the ball, and swap positions with Koke. Verratti will also help maintain a goal threat with his trademark late runs into the box from that position. If winning by the 80th min we will look to keep the ball even more and shut up shop to close out the game so we bring on Honda to replace Son and have Verratti play alongside Kroos and Fernandinho, pushing Honda inside right and Koke further forward.

LOSING:
65 mins: Shaw OFF Vela ON
75 mins: Gustavo OFF Honda ON
Vela will replace Shaw and move into a left forward position to attack more from the left side and give even better support to the other forwards. Honda comes on to replace Gustavo, with Fernandinho dropping back into the left centre half position meaning that Kroos will become the only holding midfielder. Honda will move up into a second striker position along with Koke, while Kagawa moves further up as striker alongside Destro. Our aim will be to keep the ball in their half and outscore them while minding ourselves defensively with the normal system.

---------------------------------Courtois
Azpilicueta---------Kalas----------------Terry------Howedes
-------------------------Matic-----------Nainngolan
Candreva---------------------Rooney----------------Griezzman
----------------------------------Costa

Subs: Ryan, Ake, Matuidi, Montolivio, Bony, Lamela, Origi

Captain: John Terry
Free Kicks: Wayne Rooney(shot)/Antoine Griezzman(delivery)
Corners: Antoine Griezzman
Penalties: Wayne Rooney


We set up in an adaptable 4-5-1 system that can become a 4-4-2 or a 4-3-3 in order to concentrate our players in the areas we require them. Play a high tempo possession game, moving the ball quickly, controlling the game by pressing quickly to win the ball back. When we win it back we are back on the front foot.

The front four close down with intense pressure, stopping the opposition back line being able to play the ball out into midfield, force them back to the keeper and long or wide to the FBs. Rooney and Costa close on the CBs whilst the two wide attacking midfielders squeeze inside and block the route to the midfield. FBs push up to force wingers back, leave them no space. If they do get it forward quickly, Matic and Nainngolan cover with a strong tackle and slow them down(foul if we have to in the centre).

After that, defend the area of the pitch the ball has been played to by compacting the side. If we have forced them wide we move to defend this horizontal area of the pitch in numbers, the FB and wide attacker being the two to press the players, with the forwards and one CM coming across to squeeze the space and step in if the other two are beaten, give them no way of playing the ball centrally, if they push it forward we have the CBs and DM in position to step in and break up play. If they move it across we have the players on the opposite side in position to slow play down whilst we reorganise.

If from stage one they get the ball central we set up with two banks of four and the two forwards dropping in to press the deeper midfielders, if the midfielders get beyond those two they will have Matic and Nainngolan to get through. We squeeze the space in the midfield, keep the lines compact with the two wide attackers moving out to stop the FBs if they overlap and they contract if Leicester get numbers central. Keeping the lines tight allows us to squeeze the ball if they get it to the striker. If they are really pushing us back, fall to defend the 18 yard box, FBs tuck in alongside the CBs to give us to compact banks of four, only pushing wide if Leicester do, keep disciplined, wait for the chance to break.

When we have the ball we want to control the game with good possession, but not dallying on the ball, we have a lot of pace, power and flair in this team and we want that to reflect in our attacking play. Plan A will see us using lots of movement, moving the ball quickly in the area we win it, taking advantage of compact defending to be able to spring forward with one touch passing, quickly breaking into the final third and using our four attacking players and one FB on the side of attack. The two wide men have the license to attack wide or from central, with one holding width when we break down his flank, linking with the FB to create the overlap, whilst the other will come central and look to make use of free space to provide an overload, either down the wing where we are building, or centrally to give us three central attackers against their defence. The FB and winger must interchange, at times the FB going to the byline where he can find space to cross or open up room for the winger to cut in, and other times making underlap so the winger can get to the byline and into the box to pull it back. We then want movement between the forwards, Rooney will usually look to come to the ball and use Costa and Griezzman running off him, however sometimes Costa will drop deeper to hold it up and the others make runs off him. Plan B is the more physical approach, looking to hit Costa early, cutting out their midfield and allowing him to push it wide for the wide attackers to spring forward at pace, this will be extra threatening if we are defending deep and Costa has dropped to half way, with more space for us to run into. Make use of these counters but also be more focused in possession, keep the ball circulating and don't give them easy ball possession.

Individual:

Courtois commands his area, collecting crosses and distributing quickly.

FBs tight on the wingers, don't allow them space to run and don't let them cut inside, rough them up, neither like it.

Terry the physical presence to mark the striker, winning all the duels, Kalas to cover his partner. Don’t allow them to have time and space to control the ball and link up.

Matic use his power, bully the AM, don't let him between the lines or have time on the ball. Nainngolan to be the lnk between it all, get the ball and move it into space. Dominate the midfield.

Front 4 = quick and adaptable. Work hard off the ball, attack with precision. Costa provides extra power, the other three the speed and vision. Link quickly, be clinical.

Subs:

If Winning: Matuidi comes on to shore up the midfield, replacing Rooney 70', play a 4-3-3 and keep hold of possession. Montolivo for Nainngolan 80'. Bony for Costa 85'.

If Drawing: Lamela for Candreva 70'. Origi and Montolivo for Griezzman and Nainggolan 75', Origi left, Lamela right, Origi can take players on and also make runs in behind from wide positions, Montolivo comes in to keep control of possession and find killer passes.

If Losing: Lamela and Bony for Nainngolan and Candreva 65', 4-4-2 with Rooney CM making those runs forward. Origi for Azpilicueta 75', 3-5-2,

Courtois
Kalas Terry Howedes
Matic
Lamela Rooney Griezzman Origi
Bony Costa

Hull City Tactics vs Birmingham

-----------------------------Scuffet-------------------------------

---------Otamendi---------Miranda-------Benatia---------------

Srna-----------Marchisio--------------Witsel----------Alex Sandro

------------Walcott---------------------James--------------------

----------------------------Rossi---------------------------

Subs: Dier, Cabaye, Lucas Moura, Valbuena, Aubameyang

Game Plan: massive change this week for this week, moving from 4-3-3 to 3-4-2-1. This formation will see us attempt to dominate possession and be attacking, while still being compact and effective in defence. The 3-4-2-1 formation with two withdrawn forwards is very demanding and will require the players to be flexible and to be able to transition quickly, which they are all well capable of.

The two withdrawn strikers are the most critical piece of the attack, when one shifts wide, the other tucks in behind the main striker to maintain midfield superiority. James and Walcott both possess the ability to play in the wide areas and through the middle, both have good pace and dribbling ability but they also have the vision and the passing ability when infield.

The main structural difference between our usual 4-3-3 and this weeks 3-4-2-1 is obviously the 3-man backline. Like all 3-man backlines it will have to play narrow and compact in defence and nullify the space for Birmingham's attack. Benatia and Otamendi as the wide CB's will use their pace in dealing with the attackers of Birmingham while Miranda will use his intelligence and anticipation to cover in behind. However, the main focus of the 3-man backline isn't the defensive structure, it's the structure in possession. The main intent is to neuter the opposition press, offering 3 targets against a two-man press gives us too many passing options. With patience and guile, that press can be exhausted, if Birmingham decide to use a 3 man press then we can drop the wingbacks and with the 2 defensive midfield players this makes this a very effective formation against a side that likes to press high up the pitch as we expect Birmingham to do.

While both wide centerbacks function like true classical centerbacks, the middle one has to play exactly like a distributing midfielder. This makes it a fantastic position for Miranda and it also allows him a certain license in freedom of movement. Miranda's best ability is to read opposition attacks, creating interceptions and tackles. If need be Miranda can step into holding midfield to bring more bodies into the attack or he can drop deeper to act as a libero depending on the offensive setup of the opposition.

In the midfield we will pair Marchisio and Axel Witsel, Witsel will act more as the distributor while Marchisio will play more as a box to box player, although both players are more than capable of switching roles at times, which presents the opposition with a shifting movement pattern from midfield.

In this new system the linchpins of the attack become the wingbacks, we will use Srna and Alex Sandro who can stay wider and stretch opposition defenses giving more space in the center for the holding midfielders and centerbacks to step into. They are both capable of getting up and down the pitch for 90 minutes and possess great pace and excellent quality from wide areas, they are also both able to tuck in centrally at times and link with the attack and midfield, playing quick passes and moving into new positions quickly, they are both very dynamic players.

In Giuseppe Rossi we have a dynamic possession-based striker, Rossi can drop deep and play as a false 9 along with his ability to shift out towards the wing and interchange with the wide midfielders, allowing him to bring a high degree of versatility to our attack. As mentioned previously Both Walcott's and James's ability to dribble, create, and play off a main striker anywhere along the attacking band gives them the freedom to completely take over a match offensively.

Subs: Aubameyang for Walcott 75mins: straight swap, very pacy and skillful forward much in the same mould as Walcott.

If winning after 75 minutes: Yohan Cabaye for Rossi, Aubameyang plays as the forward, while Cabaye moves into a midfield 3 with Marchisio and Witsel, our attacking play becomes slightly more direct, Aubameyang to play on the shoulder of the defenders, looking for balls in behind and in the channels.

SOUTHAMPTON versus Wolves tactics

Line up:

Ospina
Srna Fazio Naldo Asamoah
Biglia
Valero Benat
Sam Huntelaar Mertens

Substitutes: Kitanov, De Silvestri, Amavi, Matip, Soriano, Menez, Kiessling

Captain: Srna
Corners: Mertens
Free Kicks: Sam
Penalties: Huntelaar

Game plan:

The team wants to continue its impressive form of late in an important game against a side whose league position we want to be challenging for. Wolves have a very strong core to their team with some tricky wingers that can cause damage so we will be looking to counter that by playing an intelligent marking system. Our set up for this game is focussed on having as much possession of the ball as is possible whilst completely nullifying Wolves’ counter attacking game.

In attack, Biglia will drop just in front of the two centre backs and will look to control the game from deep, giving us three at the back; Srna and Asamoah will push forwards and will join Valero and Benat as wide midfielders to make a four man midfield. By setting up like this, we look to increase our efficiency in terms of space covered so that there will always be a spare man to pass to. We are looking to play a slow, methodical passing game with lots of free movement in to space so that we can keep Wolves off the ball and tire them out chasing shadows all game. We will look to spread the ball around the pitch as much as possible to force holes in Wolves’ defence and our players will consistently swap positions to keep the opposition guessing.

In the final third of the pitch, Sam and Mertens will look to exploit gaps between the full backs and centre backs and they will be looking to get behind the defence. Huntelaar will play off the last man and make a nuisance of himself in the box and our four midfielders will push high up the pitch to provide support, whilst still being wary of counter attacks.

In defence, Naldo and Fazio have been picked to deal with the aerial ability of Mandzukic whilst Biglia will be tasked with handling runs from Wolves’ midfield.
Asamoah and Srna will be tasked with standing their man up, not allowing them to run down the wings or cut inside. Sam and Mertens will double mark with their respective full backs and the main goal is to reduce the number of Wolves crosses to zero.

Benat, Valero and Huntelaar will be tasked with keeping a check on any deep runs through the centre of the park. Each player will pick up one man to mark for the rest of the game and they will be looking to press heavily so that Wolves have no space in the centre and are forced in to making mistakes or are forced backwards.

Individual tactics:

Ospina: It is important for him to remain vocal at all times and to marshal the team from his vantage point. Keep spirits high and keep motivating the team.

Naldo and Fazio: It is important for one of the 2 centre backs to keep a close eye on Mandzukic, forcing him out of the game, whilst the other covers runs from behind. Both will play a simple game and will play deep so as not to be caught for pace.

Biglia: A very defensive role today, covering the runs of the full backs by slotting in between our 2 centre backs and looking to hold position against the runs of Wolves’ forwards and midfielders so that our centre backs can focus on Mandzukic.

Srna and Asamoah: Offensively, they will be looking to hold a wide midfielder position so that they can contribute to the attacks without leaving room for Wolves’ wingbacks. They will also need to watch for any pacey players getting behind Naldo and Fazio.

Valero and Benat: Technically very good on the ball and they will be looking to dominate Wolves’ midfield with crisp, effective passing. Defensively, they will be looking to sit in the middle, intercepting passes through the centre and getting their bodies in between the opposition and the goal.

Mertens and Sam: Given free roles to move across the defensive line as our full backs will push to the bylines. They will be looking to get in behind the Wolves defence and supply Huntelaar. In defence, they will be looking to double up on Wolves’ wingers, whilst keeping an eye on any marauding full backs.

Huntelaar: Will run the length of the line, closing everything down. He will look to shift his body weight around and bully the Wolves centre backs, challenging in the air and on the ground for every ball and generally making a nuisance of himself.


Subtitutes:

70 minutes: Soriano for Benat: Soriano is a more defensive player and is better at recycling possession. He will look to hold the ball for as long as possible.

80 minutes: De Silvestri for Sam: Srna pushes to right wing as a more defensive option and De Silvestri will sit with the centre backs, freeing up Biglia.

85 minutes: Amavi for Valero: Asamoah gets a chance to storm through midfield as Amavi is given the chance to further his growing reputation at left back.

Manchester United vs Chelsea

A balanced 4-2-3-1, with players that will really attack Chelsea, but more importantly will play a high pressing game in important areas of the park.

We come into this game in confidence, we already had the psychological upper hand over Chelsea, and this has been increased by the injuries of their two best outfield players.

Tevez will be key today, in fantastic form, he always scores against Chelsea. Oscar lines up in the CAM role behind Tevez, and their fantastic work-rate off the ball will be vital in ensuring we keep Chelsea in areas they can’t hurt us. In addition, if Pirlo is playing, we want Oscar to do everything to nulify his threat, as he has done on more than one occasion before.

We want our central trio to dominate possession, looking to control the game in the middle of the park. As we advance into the final third we will seek to attack down the wings, target their full backs.

Our formation ensures that the wingers offer cover against the oppositions fbs if they attack. And likewise, going forward the fbs and wingers work as a pair to double up on the opposition fbs.

------------ G.Buffon
Alves – Pepe – Vertonghen – Filipe
---- Schneiderlin – Fabregas
Bellarabi ----- Oscar ---- Robben
------------- C.Tevez

Subs. Zieler, I.Martinez, Rafael, Rakitic, Cazorla, Hulk, Wellbeck

Building on a strong compact formation, we play with plenty of width, seeking to stretch the opposition, and attack down the wings. Schneiderlin and Cesc can stamp their authority in the middle of the park, offering the defence the protection it needs but more importantly orchestrating our play.

We attack with a high tempo, using the pace we having going forward. We will be direct in our attacking play in the opposition half, this coupled with our width will stretch the opposition. We seek to create spaces and gaps in the oppositions midfield, and defence allowing us to get Oscar and Tevez in dangerous areas in the opposition third.

The formation is rigid in defence, fluid in attack. On each side one fb/wg keeps the width, the other has license to come inside. Tevez and one cm will always be seeking to link up with the wide players. Tevez and Oscar are key to our attacking play, looking for fast combination layoffs with the wide men and Cesc.

Generally short passes out from defence, a cm will look to pick up the ball and paly it out wide, preferably to the full back getting forward. In the middle of the park we look to keep the ball on the deck passing in triangles, triangles that are directed out wide, as we look to shift the ball wider as we advance into the opposition half.

Attacking movement in the final third is key. One of the fb or wg running inside, the other going down the line. This ensures we have at least one dummy run, creating space and pulling Chelsea defenders out of position. Coming inside we look to whip the ball in behind the opposition defence, or play a cute through ball. When going wide, if possible get to the by line at the 18 yard box, from there you have a greater chance of finding Tevez/Oscar/opposite wg or Cesc at edge.

Defence.

Control the space. When they do have possession, ensure it’s in areas that can’t hurt us.

The first point of defence should be in in the opposition half, as we look to play a high pressing game. Force them to go long or take risks. We want to catch them out, winning possession in areas we can hurt them.

As soon as they move the ball out of the first third, to the middle section of the park we want to press.
Keeping the 4-2-3-1 shape at this point, Tevez, Oscar and one of Bellarabi/Robben will look to close down the opposition depending where the opposition are. The winger on the opposite flank comes in narrow, ensuring there is no space in the centre.

When there dm’s come deep to get the ball, Tevez and one of WGs/AM shut out the space in front of them, force them back to their defenders as our other four midfielders and fb’s will pick up their players.

Although we press high up the park, the defence will ensure that as Chelsea advance further up the park, the line drops deep so there is no space in behind. As Chelsea advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1.

Schneiderlin drops in between defence and midfield, sweeping in between the lines. His energy and reading will be best utilised in this position. Cesc and Oscar in cm. This shape ensures that when one of our midfielders do press we will still always have 4 midfielders behind, to cover, particularly in the important central areas.

We always want at least one more defender than Chelsea has attacker. One full backs get forward at a time. The other stays in line with Schneiderlin, ready to break forward. Guarding against counters, allows us to get players back if possession changes quickly.

Our fb’s up against their quick wide forwards are to drop off more so they can bide their time, waiting for the right time to make the tackle and not diving in. Show him down the line to block the cross. If he does manage to get past you, there’s a chance to stop the cross.

Attack

Passing simple in our own third. Playing short and on the deck where possible. If we go long, look to find our wingers, using their pace to get in behind. Seek to target their fbs in the final third.

Generally direct going forward, in the opposition half we will always look to go forward and stretch the opposition where possible.

Oscar will always look to find space in between the Chelsea midfield and defence, where he can get on the ball, linking up and looking to create.

Tevez up top will play his natural game. He loves playing Chelsea.

Subs. If winning after 68 mins bring on Rakitic for Oscar. Fresh legs, and will help us dominate possession.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Wellbeck for Tevez. His pace will be a real asset as the game opens up and he can get the better of the tired Chelsea defence.
If winning after 85 mins bring on Rafael for Bellarabi. Right mid, offering fresh energy in defence and on the break.

If drawing after 65 mins bring on Rakitic for Oscar. Fresh legs to ensure we continue at a high tempo.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Wellbeck for Tevez. His pace will be a real asset as the game opens up and he can get the better of the tired Chelsea defence.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Cazorla for Bellarabi. Offers the creative spark to unlock the Chelsea defence.

If losing after 65 mins bring on Cazorla for Oscar and Hulk for Bellarabi. 4-3-3. Cazorla and Cesc running things in the midfield. Hulk and Robben really taking the game to the opposition defence.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Rakitic for Schneiderlin. 3 central midfielders who will pass it round Chelsea for fun.

-----------------------Cech
Arbeloa------Cahill--------Chiellini-----Bernat
----------- Bender--------Schwein
Willian------------Eriksen---------------Lavezzi
---------------------Cavani

Subs: Cesar, Veltman, Schmelzer, Carrick, Kuba, Jovetic, Soldado

Subs

60th Min – Willian for Jovetic
70th Min – Kuba for Eriksen – switch positions with jovetic

GAME PLAN

I want my team to play counter attacking football. We have the players to play that way and we have the potential danger of harming our opposition. We want to play a pressing game where we shall play one DM and one box to box midfielder. Schwein will be the box to box midfielder but he shall be playing as a DM when we are off the ball. The two Dms will both press at different times but would prefer Schwein to press most of all. Our full backs and wingers shall press as well. Our team will be aiming to obtain the ball as soon as possible and then punish the opposition with swift attacks. We want to play a deep defensive line and keep things tight on the pitch. Therefore we shall aim to keep our defence behind the centre circle off the ball bar our full backs who will be invited to move forward. We want to reduce the amount of freedom the opposition has on the ball. Our players will keep close to the opposition’s men and push them back. We want to force errors out of them and push off the ball. Our two centre backs will stick together, whether that is when we are off the ball or when we are up for set pieces. The full backs shall cover the goal area during these set pieces. Our full backs shall be keeping our defensive line tight when we are off the ball, sticking in a line with our centre backs. However on the ball I want them moving forward and helping form the attacks. Our two defensive midfielders will be looking to slow down play, hold the ball and create opportunities by moving the ball forward as quick as possible. Defensively this will force the game to be tight and cancel out the opposition. On the ball it should free up space for our attackers and move forward as quickly as possible.

Our attacking play will be fast and neat. Our two defensive midfielders will be breaking up play, holding on to the ball and then setting our wingers free. This means we want to play with plenty of pace. Out of our 2 wingers Lavezzi is our fastest and we are likely to get some space in this area. Eriksen is playing central today so he should be able to make plenty of runs. This shows that we have the capability of pulling of counter attacking football successfully. Our wingers and number 10 shall be integrating with each other’s play and therefore we will have plenty of options during our attacks. All of our attackers will be looking to work their way into space using physical and skilful football. Our full backs will also be there during attacks so our wingers can cut inside more as well.

POSITIONAL TACTICS

Arbeloa should play as a wing back. I want him to move forward during our attacks. He should stay out wide to create a crossing option. I want him to create space for our wingers. While defending Arbeloa should try and push the player back. If he can’t do that he should push him out wide to a position where he has to kick the ball off. Bernat should play the same way.

Cahill should use his height and strength to keep the striker(s) out of the game. I want him to keep with that attacker at all times or keep him offside. He should try and header every ball out of the box or kick it away preferably to the wingers. He should only go up for corners/free kicks. Chiellini should play the same way as Cahill.

Bender will be the DM. He should look to disrupt their attacking play and reduce the space around their playmaker. He should hold his position and not get caught up field. I want him to control the style of the game we play. While acting as cover for our defence he should also separate the midfield from the defence by keeping hold of the ball and form attacks.

Schwein will be our box-box midfielder. I want him to identify spaces up the pitch. He should take hold of the ball and supply it to any of the front 3 ahead and try to exploit any space. When we’re attacking I want him to move up and stay in space. When off the ball he should be a ball winning player.

I want Willian to use his skill and pace and make runs into the box. He must use his pace to outrun the full back but also his quality control of the ball to dribble round him. When we’re off the ball I want him help Arbeloa cover their full back. I would like Lavezzi to do the same.

Eriksen should use his pace and strength to make runs into the box and opening up space for Cavani. He will look to supply the ball to the wingers as well. Try and force their defensive midfielder to move out of position and allow our wingers to use that space by running into the centre. Off the ball he should drop back and play deeper therefore he will be able to use more of his trickery to open up games during a counter attack.

I would like Eriksen, Willian and Lavezzi to intersect and change positions.

Cavani must use his pace and skill to open up spaces for the wingers and central players to run into. I want him to stay inside the box so that he remains an option in the middle. However he should drop deeper to bring the defenders forward and open up space behind them. He should look to overpower their defenders with his pace and strength and height. He should constantly look to move into space to create himself as an option for the defence. When we’re defending he should mark the player at the edge of the box.

Captain: Schwein
Vice: Cech
FK: Willian
PK: Willian
CK: Willian

James Milner
Joe Hart
Vincent Kompany
Jackson Martinez

----------------------Foster---------------------
---Lahm------Boateng----Laporte-----Kolarov
------------------------------------------------------
--------------Busquets-----Yaya Toure----------
----------------------------------------------------
-------Reus----------Silva--------Ronaldo
-------------------------------------------------
----------------------Aguero--------------------
Subs
Thomas Vermaelan
Ander Herrera
Daley Blind
Lukas Podolski
Aaron Ramsey
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain
Kieran Gibbs

--------------------------------------------------------
SUBS
--------------------------------------------------------
IF WINNING
70' - Reus > OX - Freshen up wing and also more defensive solidity
Silva > Blind - Sits alongside Busquets with Yaya Toure further forward.

80' Ronaldo > Ramsey - Blind LM, Ramsey cm (apply above also)

IF DRAWING
70' Busquets > Ramsey
80' Reus > OX (apply above two also)

IF LOSING
60' Busquets > Ramsey
80' Busquets > Ramsey. Laporte > Podolski 3-5-2
-----------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------
We must win this game. We feel Newcastle are there for the taking therefore we will be positive in our play.
We line up in a familiar 4-2-3-1.
In today's game, we look to add more width and pace to our team. When needed we will sit in an absorb pressure pouncing on any opportunity to counter attack with or deadly trio up front.(madrid style) We also look to use the full length of the pitch therefore Reus and Ronaldo will play as wingers and will also be provided support from the full backs. When defending we will be disciplined, at times having everybody behind the ball and then wait for the opportunity to use our pace and power on a counter attack. We will not be afraid to play it out from the back, everybody is comfortable on the ball.

Generally we want to take the game to the opposition and look for that early goal, putting the opposition under pressure.

Foster will be quick off his line for one on ones and crosses into the box. I want him to be vocal in his box maintaining communication with his centre halves. Comfortable with the ball at his feet he will play it both short to my centre backs and long to my attackers who look to break at speed.

Lahm and Kolarov two natural full backs. I want them upon and down the pitch providing options for our attack. Also I want them to defend responsibly and not risk being caught out. They mark man for man and force the opposition inwards into a packed midfield.

Boateng and Laporte, A good mix of power, pace, aerial ability and composure on the ball, allows us to be commanding at the back and limit the amount of opportunities for the opposition. Both will control the back four and make sure everybody is doing their job correctly by using their excellent leadership skills. Boateng and Laporte will stay close to each other not allowing the opposition to open up space. Laporte looks to defend the first ball coming towards our defence, using his reading of the game to get there before the striker and clear, he'll use his great tackling to shut him down around the area and then look to get the ball back Boateng stays in position when Laporte does this covering the remaining space, he will be able to clear the second ball if it gets beyond Laporte.

Busquets and Yaya Toure will be our two deepest central midfielders. As usual Busquets holds while Yaya Toure plays box to box. Yaya Toure uses his amazing energy to track down opposition in pressing while also making late runs intothe box. Busquets helps us tick over.

Silva - Sits in a free role between midfield and striker. Using his dribbling and vision will pick up possession and drive forward to play incisive passes. Will consistently pass and move to be in strong positions to effectively receive and distribute the ball, once he has done so he will use his strong dribbling abilities to hold possession and enable team mates to forge attacking runs beyond him then getting his head up to read these runs push forwards and play the decisive pass into attacking positions.

Ronaldo + Reus: Both quick, direct, tricky and strong, they'll pull the opposition defence all over the place. They are both creative playmakers as well as wingers and will look to play balls in to Aguero's feet for the one-two, but they're also quick and have great energy so can get round the back of the WBA defence and drill in low balls and cutbacks, or they can drive at the defence and cause them problems. They'll be allowed to switch at will.

Up front is Aguero, he should always look to make runs in behind and hold his own when possible holding the ball up and getting others involved whilst occasionally coming deeper to dictate the player whilst they go on beyond.

----------------Szczęsny
Clyne---Subotic---Godin---Siquera
--------Henderson-----Pjanic
Callejon------------Mata----------Nasri
------------------Suarez
Subs
Perin, Rojo, Uchida, Geis, Iturbe, De Jong, Higuain

Tactical Overview
For the first 20 minutes we are going to try and blitz the opposition, try to get an early goal or 2, then sit back into a counter attacking style with inverted wingers to allow full backs to provide width when attacking. and working in groups of 2 or 3 to press high up the pitch get the ball back by stayng on their feet and nick the ball rather than sliding in to launch quick transitions from defence to attack.



Keeper


When distributing the ball, he should look to keep it simple and play the simple pass. At crosses and set pieces, should look to punch rather than flap at pressurised catches.



Full Backs

Defensively the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly, limiting space for balls to be played between them and the centre back, but then to push the opposition winger out as wide as possible to limit their opportunity to get a good cross in.

 Their primary directive when attacking will be to push on and make overlapping runs down their respective sides, keeping the pitch as wide as possible to try and stretch the opposition defensive line.



Centre Backs

Godin will compete with the striker for the aerial balls played up to him, with Subotic looking to win the 2nd ball. When the ball is on the floor, Godin will be the defender who looks to meet the striker looking to stifle his space and rush his decisions, with Subotic making the covering run. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should look to take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space and retain possession.



Centre Mids


Pjanic will look to create himself little pockets of space so he can get on the ball and keep the game ticking over whilst not afraid to get forward as an extra attacking option, Henderson will be playing a more all round game looking to put himself about, being a key figure in the pressing game and using his energy to get forward and make late runs and be an extra attacking presence. When defending, both players will look to close down the space in which the attacking midfielders will look to occupy and restrict them to minimal time on the ball.





Wingers


When they are off the ball, the emphasis for both wingers will be to drift around combining with the other attackers to get little areas of space to take advantage of the quick transitions from defence to attack. then 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 Mata and Suarez, as defenders will be extra cautious to not make a rash tackle and give away a free kick or penalty. When the opposite winger has the ball, the winger without the ball should look to find space between the CB and full back to add an extra body for any crosses or capitalise on any defensive errors.
 When defending, they should be blocking the passing lines to the full backs as well as tracking their movement when they go forward.



Attacking Midfielder

Mata should be looking to make himself available for a pass as much as possible, when we have the ball in the middle of the pitch, he shouldn't be afraid to come a bit deeper to get the ball and take on players himself or look to make an attacking pass. he should also look to be making late runs into the box as an attacking option when we have the ball out wide. when defending, he should be looking to occupy the defensive pivot, stop him being an out ball for the opposition.



Striker


When attacking, he will look to play a high energy game by being a willing runner down the channels and constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to face the defenders and take them on. When defending, he will be the first line of defence, using his high energy game to pressurise the defenders into making quick decisions.

Set Pieces



Corners - Mata takes the corners, the 2 CB's go into the box, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's, Suarez and Callejon work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a free run at the ball, Nasri looks to annoy the opposition keeper looking to limit his ability to move around the 6 yard box. Hendo and Pjanic take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.





Free Kicks - Suarez takes Direct FK's, with Mata occasionally taking them as the 2nd option.



For Indirect FK's, follow the same directives for Corners





Penalties - Suarez is the designated taker.





Subs



If Winning


72 mins - Geis for Mata - The wingers tuck back, but with the knowledge to get out quickly for the front 3 to try and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
 Geis slots into a deeper role.




85 + 87 Mins - Iturbe for Nasri and Uchida for Clyne - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.



If Losing



71 Mins - Rojo + Higuain for Clyne + Siquera - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and we go all out attacking for a way to get back into the game.

83 Mins - Iturbe for Nasri - a more direct option.

If Drawing
70 Mins - Geis for Hendo
76 Mins - Uchida for Clyne
80 Mins - Iturbe for Callejon

all subs seen as fresh legs with us keeping the same tactical style.

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

Deadline passed

Comment deleted by Article Creator

I have sold Dyer and Montolivo, can I change my substitues?

yeah go on then

thank you

--------------------Valdes--------------------
Montoya---Jagielka---Van Dijk---Darmian
------------------Wanyama-------------------
Montero--McCarthy---Hojbjerg--Naismith
---------------------Bony----------------------

Kiko, Schar, Carrick, Cleverley, Payet, Remy, Sakho

With newcastle having an abundance of attacking flair, and noting our position in the league we have lined up in a formation looking to stop them attacking with ease, and look to hit them on the break.

Two new fullbacks in Montoya and Darmian along with Jagielka and Van Dijk looks a very promising defence with the experience goalkeeper Victor Valdes behind them. We must keep concentration at all times, Mark the attacking players ie Montoya and Darmian must stop their wingers getting to the bye line any way they can and stop them cutting inside. Van Dijk will pick up their centre forward and mark him very tightly. Jagielka is the Captainand he is there to lead by example, keep the back four in a line when we defend making it impossible for them to break us down.

Especially with Wanyama prowling around just in front of the defence, he is a mean lad and will get stuck right into the attacking midfielder of Newcastle, do not allow him time or space to support the CF or indeed shorten the time he has to pass the ball around him. McCarthy and Hojbjerg in the centre of the pitch, look to dominate the game, Hojbjerg I want as the young playmaker who will get the ball out wide and up to Bony, whereas McCarthy I want to move up the pitch looking to support Bony. In Montero and Naismith we have two very quick wingers, especially Montero, when we attack I want it to be done very quickly. Down the right I want Montoya and Montero to work in tandom, thus using each other to get the space required to get to the bye line, give and go. When the right hand attacks Darmian stays back, Naismith moves into the box to support Bony and the same on the other side when the left hand side attacks, Montero gets into the box, Montoya stays back, so when we are going forward we always have at least two ready to pounce on the cross balls, McCarthy on the edge and depending what side two players down the wing looking to get these cross balls in.

Defending this must be a stringent 4-1-4 system that will stop them coming through, they must work hard as Newcatle have some fantastic players who must not be allowed to play.

Wilfried Bony is the prefect No.9, big, strong, a bit of pace and most of all he can score goals, can hold of the CB marking him and drive into the area. Or indeed, he can hold the ball up looking for the support coming his way in Montero, Naismith and McCarthy, Always on the last man ready to get into dangers areas.

Substitutes

65 Mins Payet on for Hojbjerg, Wanyama will partner McCarthy, Payet out to AM if we are losing

75 Mins Loic Remy on for Naismith and Payet to LW and we go 4-4-2 if we are losing

80 Mins - Diafra Sakho for Bony, straight swap if losing

If winning
Cleverley will come on for Hojbjerg on 75 Mins and Loic Remy for Bony on 80 Mins

If drawing the sme subs will be made as if we are winning

Portsmouth tactics (4-2-3-1):

------------------------Lloris-------------------------
Carvajal-------Papa------Hummells----Marcelo
--------------Martinez----Modric------------------
Cuadrado----------Hamsik--------------Draxler
---------------------Immobile--------------------

Subs: Ter Stegen, Adriano, Fernando, Sterling, Coutinho

C:Martinez
V:Hummells
Setpieces:Hamsik

We have been in bad form, but today's a big chance for us to turn things around with a back to basics performance. As the home team the gameplan is to try and get possession as much as possible and control the game, changing the pace very quickly and hitting the opposition with quick, sharp decisive play. As we are low on confidence and Leicester have some pace behind the striker, we will start off sitting 10-15 yards inside our half, trying to push the line higher as we grow into the game and get more confident, allowing the midfield to press the opposition midfield with more ease.

Lloris - World class keeper, who knows what today is all about. As usual he will be a quality shot-stopper, making himself big and commanding his box. He also suits our game plan, as the more we push on the more we will need Lloris to be alert and off his line.

FBs - Both are young, athletic and will be able to help solidify the defence, whilst having the energy to get forward and give us extra numbers in attack. First and foremost they are defenders and will play as such, with their pace being vital to trying to play a high line. Only one should be pushing on at a time, when they see the chance to stretch the play I want them to take it, but I don't want them both going gung-ho - all movements should be considered. When making the overlapping runs it will help the wingers, giving them options, and I want the FBs getting the ball into the box.

CBs - Papa will be the first knock defender, going in for the challenges against the CF. He's strong, great in the air and solid in the tackle so on a one on one basis it will be very difficult for anyone to better him. Meanwhile Hummells will marshall the line, calling it, keeping everyone in position and keeping concentration levels high, while he reads any danger coming in and tries to drop off and snuff out any through balls and cover Papa and the FBs, so they never get overrun. It's important to note that while we will be trying to play a high line, it won't be an offside trap as such - whilst we will play for obvious offsides, our pressing game in the MF will hopefully reduce the opposition to lofted, rushed passes and Hummells has license to drop off from the rest of the defence as soon as he can see that the ball is going to be played, to cut out the pass early rather than letting the opposition chase it and he can then start attacks himself.

Martinez - our anchorman and captain today, his role is vital but he will go about it with a minimum of fuss, as ever. He will be marshalling the space in front of the back 4, offering them lots of protection and not letting anyone get a free run at them. He'll be breaking up the attacks and recycling possession, getting us back on the front foot, making it look simple.

Modric - Today he'll be doing more of the runnning and pressing, starting from alongside Martinez and looking to control the game. He is perfect for our gameplan as he can keep possession with ease, probing the opposition and waiting for a moment to quickly ramp up the speed of the move and cut the opposition apart. Equally he is able to start counters brilliantly too, so he will be a big player for orchastrating our attacks.

AMs - The 3 of these will generally drift , working around Hamsik, who will be trying to find space. Cuadrado is a very direct player and will generally push the opposition defence back, giving us more space in the midfield for us to exploit. If they don't drop deep, then Modric will be able to get Cuadrado & Draxler in behind with ease. Hamsik gets to play his natural game today and with 3 players full of pace and running ahead of him he'll thrive as he'll have space to operatate in and runners to aim for. Draxler is talented and will be looking to prove it today. He'll operate from the left, cutting in, but can play anywhere along the line so won't have any problems drifting. He will look to commit players and take them out of the game, giving us a numerical advantage during attacks which we can take advantage of.

Immobile - Today he will be playing almost as a workhorse, but there will be a lot more to it than that. I want him running the channels, giving an option at all times. When we're up against it I want him to hold the ball up and bring others into play, when we're on top controlling the game i want his movement along the back line to really worry the CBs. I want him to make sure they can never relax and give him their utmost attention, meaning that our AMs can drift into the space they leaving, unnoticed and exploit it.

Subs - 60 mins - Sterling for Cuadrado - like for like to add energy.

70 mins - if winning - Fernando and Coutinho on for Hamsik and Draxler

Change to

------Fernando----Martinez-----
Sterling------Modric------Coutinho

To solidify us as a team whilst also offering fresh legs to keep us pressing high and offer a counter attacking threat.

Alternatively if we're losing or drawing on 70 mins - Martinez off for Coutinho.

4-1-4-1

---------------------Modric---------------
Sterling----Hamsik---Coutinho----Draxler
--------------------Immobile----------------

Modric to get on the ball and play direct, us throwing runners forward, trying to get a goal. If this pays off and we do go ahead, then straight after I would like to bring Fernando on for Draxler, and bring him in alongside Modric.

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Swansea tactics

------------------------Diego Alves-------------------------
Caceres---------Rami------------Albiol----------Maxwell
-----------------------------Motta------------------------
--Salah-------------------Nolan-------------------Cerci
-----------------Negredo----------Rondon------------

Subs: Baumann, Rio, Contento, Yedlin, Lanzini, Michu, Torres

General: Attack from the front and press their midfield. I think Birmingham may think I will sit back with our injuries but I want to surprise them and show them that our strikers and midfield will score and will win every ball and make sure you won't have time to breath let alone. We feel that their defence lacks pace and we have Negredo and Rondon who can use their pace and skill and give them a very tough time. We will be combating in midfield and have the necessary muscle to hinder them and have cover for every defender so they are not allowed a 1v1 oppportunity. We press their defence and then when midfield receive it, they are pressed and we win the ball as quick and attack with purpose.
Tempo wise, we use the crowd's energy and enthusiasm to motivate us and we play high tempo with high energy but not run for the sake of it. We do it methodically and play short forward passes but at pace.

Defence
Alves to be very aggressive on corners and push anyone in the way to get the ball as he will most likely not get penalised. Will make himself look big if ever 1v1.
The fullbacks will not be charging forward as their main role is to defend and be aggressive by barging their respective wingers so they know they are in for a game and will not be bullied.
The CB's will be winning the goalkicks and have to keep their wits about from potential crosses. Stay focussed and communicate with the midfield.
The back four are experienced and will have Nolan and Motta for protection.

Midfield
Motta as expected to take a more defensive approach and patrol the defence. He will also help out on full-back duty if they are isolated.
Nolan also great in midfield defensively and gets in the faces of their midfield off the ball to press and press. Nolan great attacking the ball in the air and the strikers expect him to win and we find space in behind to target for goal
The wingers have to be direct when attacking and be smart of using other players as decoys or slipping them in. It is important we don't do any risky passing in these areas as losing the ball with no solid cover could be disastrous. Defensively they both help their full-backs and press their wingers and make them pass back.

Forwards
Negredo with the pace and skill whilst Rondon the sharpshooter and both compliment each other very well. They will be going at the CB's directly and taking them on with their pace and shoot on sight if they are allowed. They need to stretch their defence so should move them around and allow our midfield to run into them spaces and continue their runs at goal.
Defensively they shall both by pressing either side of the CB's and our midfield will also step up and defence likewise. Not too far up. They press, press and press.

Red card scenario:

If keeper is sent off... Rondon off on for Baumann
If CB is sent off... Rondon off for Rio
If either Motta or Nolan is sent off... Rondon off for Michu
If either either FB is sent off... Rondon off for Contento or Yedlin
If either Salah is sent off... Rondon off for Yedlin
If either Cerci is sent off... Rondon off for Lanzini
If either ST is sent off... Michu (play behind the striker)

Subs: Yedlin on for Salah 70mins (same role)

Torres for Rondon at 75mins (same role)

Counter attacking 4-5-1. We aim to be hard to break down, and to break with pace. Our main threat to Pompey will be on the counter, and from set pieces.

With the pace and directness of our front four, we are likely to win free kicks. Baines delivery will prove to be a real asset here, this coupled with the height and strength of Richards, de Vrij, Vlaar, Giroud and Chadli all 6’2 or taller with the exception of Richards. Throw in the strength of Inler, and intelligence of Sahin in front of the defence and we will be a difficult side to play against.

We will generally be rigid in our positions. Inler remains disciplined in his dm role, while only one of the full backs ventures forward. This will generally be Baines.

El Sha and Chadli will stay in their wide positions in defence, however going forward, they will look to play narrow, getting close to Giroud. Giroud’s ability to combine with the attackers joining, and getting beyond him will be key.

-------------- Casillas
Richards – de Vrij – Vlaar – Baines
------------ Inler – Sahin
--------------- Ramires
El Sharwaray ------------- N.Chadli
-------------- O.Giroud

Subs. Mustafi, Mings, Camacho, Delph, Gaitan, Dyer, di Natale

Our game plan today is a simple one, defend deep in numbers and counter quickly.

Allow the opposition no space in the final third.

Aggressive challenging for the ball at 50/50s. We will however not dive in when tackling in our first third of the park, we are defending in numbers, and so by not diving in if he beats one he will run into a second player, with the first also still challenging him. Simply crowd them out.

Casillas – Provides experience at the back. He has a powerful backline in front of him who will dominate the box. Keep things simple and we have one of the best goalkeepers about.

We will defend deep. The back four will remain rigid, Vlaar seeks to mark and challenge their forward, de Vrij will seeking to cover. Isolate their forwards in the final third when we are defending.

In front the wingers will come deep, looking to halt any progress that their fbs may make going forward.

The midfield trio will be tight and compact. Ramires will be the first to close the opposition in the middle of the park, Sahin and Inler will work behind him, closing the space down and seeking to push Pompey backwards.

Once we have won possession, we seek to play the ball forward quickly. The defence will have several options as we look to attack quickly. Sahin will always look to link the midfield and attack, set our wingers and Ramires bursting forward if he can. Baines will always seek to provide an outlet bursting down the left. If we seek to go long we will have a few dangerous outlets, the pace of El Sha or Chadli if in space, or to Giroud will look to link up with those joining him.

Chadli and El Sha both come inside off the wings, looking to overload Pompey’s central defence. Outnumber them, and with our direct pace, catch them off guard with too many players in advanced positions.

Giroud will be important to our gameplan, his ability to take the ball down, keep possession in the opposition half and find players breaking beyond him will be key.

Subs.
After 65 mins bring on Delph for Sahin. Fresh energy in the middle of the park.

After 75 mins bring on Dyer for Chadli.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Gaitain for Ramires.
If winning/drawing after 75 mins bring on Kruse for Giroud.

Manchester United vs Man City, Old Trafford

An attacking 4-2-3-1, with players that will really attack City, but more importantly will play a high pressing game and win the midfield battle.

We feel we can win this match in the centre of midfield, dominating possession. Cesc and Rakitic will orchestrate and control the game.

Our formation ensures that the wingers offer cover against the oppositions fbs if they attack. And likewise, going forward the fbs and wingers work as a pair to double up on the opposition fbs.

------------ G.Buffon
Alves – Pepe – Vertonghen – Filipe
-------- Khedira – Fabregas
Cazorla ----- Rakitic ---- Robben
------------- C.Tevez

Subs. Zieler, I.Martinez, Schneiderlin, Oscar, Hulk, Wellbeck, Dzeko

Possession is key to our gameplan today, however we do not pass just for the sake of it.

Generally short passes out from defence, a cm will look to pick up the ball and paly it out wide, preferably to the full back getting forward. In the middle of the park we look to keep the ball on the deck passing in triangles, triangles that are directed out wide, as we look to shift the ball wider as we advance into the opposition half.

Attacking movement in the final third is key. One of the fb or wg running inside, the other going down the line. This ensures we have at least one dummy run, creating space and pulling City defenders out of position. Coming inside we look to whip the ball in behind the opposition defence, or play a cute through ball. When going wide, if possible get to the by line at the 18 yard box, from there you have a greater chance of finding Tevez/Oscar/opposite wg or Cesc at edge.

If we are unable to work the ball to a dangerous position, this is where our possession play is key. We will quickly seek to shift the ball back and across to the other wing. Our gameplan will see the opposition narrow as they look to close us down on one wing, by then shifting quickly the opposition will be out of position and it creates an opportunity for our attackers to lose their marker and find space in the opposition box.

Building on a strong compact formation, we play with plenty of width, seeking to stretch the opposition, and attack down the wings. Khedira and Cesc can stamp their authority in the middle of the park, offering the defence the protection it needs but more importantly orchestrating our play.

We attack with a high tempo, using the pace we having going forward. We will be direct in our attacking play in the opposition half, this coupled with our width will stretch the opposition. We seek to create spaces and gaps in the oppositions midfield, and defence allowing us to get our attacking four in dangerous areas in the opposition third.

The formation is rigid in defence, fluid in attack. On each side one fb/wg keeps the width, the other has license to come inside. Tevez and one cm will always be seeking to link up with the wide players. Tevez and Rakitic are key to our attacking play, looking for fast combination layoffs with the wide men and Cesc.

Defence.

Control the space. When they do have possession, ensure it’s in areas that can’t hurt us.

The first point of defence should be in in the opposition half, as we look to play a high pressing game. Force them to go long or take risks. We want to catch them out, winning possession in areas we can hurt them.

As soon as they move the ball out of the first third, to the middle section of the park we want to press.
Keeping the 4-2-3-1 shape at this point, Tevez, Rakitic and one of Cazorla/Robben will look to close down the opposition depending where the opposition are. The winger on the opposite flank comes in narrow, ensuring there is no space in the centre.

When there dm’s come deep to get the ball, Tevez and one of WGs/AM shut out the space in front of them, force them back to their defenders as our other four midfielders and fb’s will pick up their players.

Although we press high up the park, the defence will ensure that as City advance further up the park, the line drops deep so there is no space in behind. As City advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1.

Khedira drops in between defence and midfield, sweeping in between the lines. His energy and reading will be best utilised in this position. Cesc and Oscar in cm. This shape ensures that when one of our midfielders do press we will still always have 4 midfielders behind, to cover, particularly in the important central areas.

We always want at least one more defender than City has attacker. One full backs get forward at a time. The other stays in line with Khedira, ready to break forward. Guarding against counters, allows us to get players back if possession changes quickly.

Our fb’s up against their quick wide forwards are to drop off more so they can bide their time, waiting for the right time to make the tackle and not diving in. Show him down the line to block the cross. If he does manage to get past you, there’s a chance to stop the cross.

Attack

Passing simple in our own third. Keep possession, manipulating the opposition formation to pull their players out of position and break them down.

The individual ability of Cazorla & Robben will be a real asset down the wings and will help to stretch the opposition, forcing them deep. This will create space in the centre of the park, giving time to the central players.

Cesc will orchestrate our play. We want him to be everywhere today, and get involved with everything. Control the game.

Oscar will always look to find space in between the City midfield and defence, where he can get on the ball, linking up and looking to create.

Subs. If winning after 68 mins bring on Oscar for Raktic. Fresh legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Wellbeck for Tevez. His pace will be a real asset as the game opens up and he can get the better of the tired City defence.
If winning after 85 mins bring on Rafael for Cazorla. Right mid, offering fresh energy in defence and on the break.

If drawing after 65 mins bring on Oscar for Rakitic. Fresh legs to ensure we continue at a high tempo.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Wellbeck for Tevez. His pace will be a real asset as the game opens up and he can get the better of the tired City defence.

If losing after 65 mins bring on Hulk for Cazorla. 4-3-3.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Oscar for Khedira. 3 central midfielders who will pass it round City for fun, Rakitic the deepest.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Dzeko for Filipe. 3-4-3

------------------Neuer--------------------
Sciglio----Varane----Bonucci----Ricardo
-----------------Iturraspe------------------
--------------Vidal----Pogba---------------
Sanchez---------------------------Neymar
------------------Benzema-----------------

Krul, Zouma, Pirlo, Guarin, Pererya, Memphis, Morata

We must go into this game as we did against Man Utd, look to play the ball on the ground, play round them with intense pressure, force them back and do not allow them to play

In goal Neuer, for me the best Goalkeeper there is, a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, leads by example from the back, shouting instructions to hos defenders. Out quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.

Varane and Bonucci are a solid pairing at CB, on this occassion Bonucci will man mark the CF, quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, will keep the CF away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Varane alongside will mark any other men that come up for corners etc and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger, will help out Bonucci if needed. No messing about today.

Ricardo and Sciglio at fullback, when we attack one goes at a time the other sits back. When they attack I want them bombing down the wing over lapping the winger to allow them to cut inside, quick passing between the two to get them passed the opposition fullback, which will see the fullback drive towards the bye line to get a quick cross in. If its not a cross then look for the winger inside to play a quick pass back to them so they can drive into the box. Defending both will have to be vigilant and always mindful of the tricks the opposite winger can do. Be onto them quickly not allowing them the time to get going, push them out wide and stop them becoming a threat.

Iturraspe sits just in front of the two cbs, he stops there flow between midfield and attack, presumably Rooney, so he must be on his toes and keep him quiet, always watchful of him and when they come forward he will look to intercept any through balls or look to stop his runs forward. Even when we attack he is always mindful of the players movement and ready to act quickly if they break forward. Once the ball is won simple balls to those around him. He will be aided when we defend by Pogba and Vidal either side of him. Both extremely hard working lads who will get up and down the pitch helping both defence and attack. They sit as a three with Pogba taking care of the cm when he comes forward. They will break up play and get it moving forward, most likely Vidal to burst forward to assist Benzema, he is a very dynamic player with great stamina, one who never gives up. He and Pogba in the midfield will run all day and look to force Liverpool backwards. Pogba is sort of mix of the two, can pass the ball about, defend the lines and also break forward powerfully. Look to pick up from Iturraspe and drive forward looking for more advanced passing to those in front of him or push forward with the ball with Vidal sitting just a bit behind in case of any break aways by Liverpool when Pogba is upfield.

Neymar and Sanchez are both extremely hard worker wingers well Sanchez is in defence and attack, Neymar more so in attack. Both lightning quick with nimble feet which more often than not takes them passed the fullback, wether they knock it passed them and drive on or simple a quick turn, and there away. Will have fullbacks supporting them so this allows them to pass and cut inside where both are very useful. Give and go, wait for the return and go for goal, or look to drive into the box in support of Benzema. Both like to make the pass that gives them time to look for space to drive into and wait for the return. Both very dangerous and with support from there respective fullbacks we will be a danger out wide. When defending look to get back and stop there defenders becoming a threat. With Benzema as the middle man all three will drive at the Liverpool defence

Benzema goes up top two good feet, will look to get into positions that he will become dangerous, in fact my front three are a danger and there movement will be a serious concern for the other team. Pace and movement from them, can all play CF or drift wide so when the winger comes in Benzema will be looking to drag the CB away freeing up room for the other two to drive into. With Vidal mainly supporting through the middle we are a huge goal threat. I want quick football ball to feet, quick one twos to get round the Liverpool defence.

Captain - Vidal
penalties - Vidal
free Kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers

Subs:-
Losing -
70 Mins - Memphis Depay for Iturraspe - Depay to LW, Neymar to N0.10 (free role to run at defence) Depay is exceptionally quick so will drive at the RB, Vidal man marking Rooney(AM)

80 Mins - Pereyra for Benzema, Sanchez and Neymar up top 442

85 Mins - Zouma for Sciglio 3 at the back, Ricardo to LM, Pereyra RM Sanchez - Neymar - M.Depay up front long ball and use pace to get behind the Liverpool defence

Winning:-
75 Mins - Pereyra for Neymar - Pereyra and Sanchez on the wings give more defensive cover if need be

85 Mins - Morata for Benzema straight swap frsh legs to run down defenders

Drawing:-
70 Mins - Depay for Benzema, Neymar to RW, Sanchez CF, Depay LW, mix it up a little with a quick front 3

80 Mins - Guarin for Pogba fresh legs

Damien Martinez
Bruno Martins Indi
Thomas Vermaelen
Ben Foster

----------------------Hart---------------------
---Lahm-----Kompany----Boateng-----Kolarov
------------------------------------------------------
--------------Busquets-----Yaya Toure----------
----------------------------------------------------
-------Reus----------Silva--------Ronaldo
-------------------------------------------------
----------------------Aguero--------------------
Subs
Aymeric Laporte
Kieran Gibbs
Ander Herrera
Daley Blind
Aaron Ramsey
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain
Jackson Martinez

--------------------------------------------------------
SUBS
--------------------------------------------------------
IF WINNING
70' - Reus > OX - Freshen up wing and also more defensive solidity
Silva > Blind - Sits alongside Busquets with Yaya Toure further forward.

80' Ronaldo > Ramsey - Blind LM, Ramsey cm (apply above also)

IF DRAWING
70' Busquets > Ramsey
80' Reus > OX (apply above also)

IF LOSING
60' Busquets > Ramsey
80' Busquets > Ramsey. Kompany > Martinez 3-5-2, Reus > OX
-----------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------
We must win this game. We feel Wolves are there for the taking therefore we will be positive in our play.
We line up in a familiar 4-2-3-1.
In today's game, we look to add more width and pace to our team. When needed we will sit in an absorb pressure pouncing on any opportunity to counter attack with or deadly trio up front.(madrid style) We also look to use the full length of the pitch therefore Reus and Ronaldo will play as wingers and will also be provided support from the full backs. When defending we will be disciplined, at times having everybody behind the ball and then wait for the opportunity to use our pace and power on a counter attack. We will not be afraid to play it out from the back, everybody is comfortable on the ball.

Generally we want to take the game to the opposition and look for that early goal, putting the opposition under pressure.

Hart will be quick off his line for one on ones and crosses into the box. I want him to be vocal in his box maintaining communication with his centre halves. Comfortable with the ball at his feet he will play it both short to my centre backs and long to my attackers who look to break at speed.

Lahm and Kolarov two natural full backs. I want them upon and down the pitch providing options for our attack. Also I want them to defend responsibly and not risk being caught out. They mark man for man and force the opposition inwards into a packed midfield.

Boateng and Kompany, A good mix of power, pace, aerial ability and composure on the ball, allows us to be commanding at the back and limit the amount of opportunities for the opposition. Both will control the back four and make sure everybody is doing their job correctly by using their excellent leadership skills. Boateng and Kompany will stay close to each other not allowing the opposition to open up space. Kompany looks to defend the first ball coming towards our defence, using his reading of the game to get there before the striker and clear, he'll use his great tackling to shut him down around the area and then look to get the ball back Boateng stays in position when Kompany does this covering the remaining space, he will be able to clear the second ball if it gets beyond Kompany.

Busquets and Yaya Toure will be our two deepest central midfielders. As usual Busquets holds while Yaya Toure plays box to box. Yaya Toure uses his amazing energy to track down opposition in pressing while also making late runs intothe box. Busquets helps us tick over.

Silva - Sits in a free role between midfield and striker. Using his dribbling and vision will pick up possession and drive forward to play incisive passes. Will consistently pass and move to be in strong positions to effectively receive and distribute the ball, once he has done so he will use his strong dribbling abilities to hold possession and enable team mates to forge attacking runs beyond him then getting his head up to read these runs push forwards and play the decisive pass into attacking positions.

Ronaldo + Reus: Both quick, direct, tricky and strong, they'll pull the opposition defence all over the place. They are both creative playmakers as well as wingers and will look to play balls in to Aguero's feet for the one-two, but they're also quick and have great energy so can get round the back of the WBA defence and drill in low balls and cutbacks, or they can drive at the defence and cause them problems. They'll be allowed to switch at will.

Up front is Aguero, he should always look to make runs in behind and hold his own when possible holding the ball up and getting others involved whilst occasionally coming deeper to dictate the player whilst they go on beyond.

Aston Villa vs SOUTHAMPTON tactics:
Line up:

Ospina
Srna Naldo Matip Asamoah
Barry
Benat Lulic
Sam Huntelaar Mertens

Substitutes: Taylor; De Silvestri; Fazio; Soriano; Downing; Menez; Kiessling

Game plan:

Our game plan today revolves around flooding the midfield and giving Aston Villa absolutely no time to forge any attacks. Villa are on poor form at the moment and we will be looking to take advantage of any cracks in confidence that might appear. Our set up for this game is focussed on having as much possession of the ball as is possible whilst completely nullifying Villa’s pacey offence and strong midfield.

The formation above is a standard 4-3-3 formation; however, the style in which we play will be affected by whether we are in position or not. When defending, we will be packing the midfield with numbers in a 4-5-1 formation, with our two fullbacks looking to push slightly upfield to create less space for Villa’s midfield.

In attack, however, we will be lining up in a style more akin to a 3-4-3 with our two full backs joining the midfield and looking to support our wingers from out wide. The idea of this is so that our wingers can move inside and play off the shoulders of Huntelaar, causing more troubles for the Villa defence, whilst our full backs hug the byline and hit in crosses to provide a plan B in attack.

There is plenty of pace up front in this Villa side, therefore, we have gone with our fastest CB partnership in Naldo and Matip, who will sit deep so as not to be caught out by any balls over the top. Gareth Barry’s debut will see him sitting in front of the back 2 so that there isn’t a large gap created between defence and midfield. Barry has been excelling in this holding role for Everton and he will be charged with breaking up attacks and beginning our own with precise passing.

Individual tactics:

Ospina: It is important for him to remain vocal at all times and to marshal the team from his vantage point. Keep spirits high and keep motivating the team.

Naldo and Matip: Will have to be on their toes for any runs behind them by the forward or wingers. One will always have to drop back to cover if the other comes forward to challenge for the ball.

Srna and Asamoah: Very effective offensively. Will be looking to push forward to provide width and get the ball in the box. In defence, they will look to push the wingers further infield so that the midfield area is clogged up. Will also have to be aware of any runs attempting to get behind the centre backs.

Barry: Important holding role today. Effectively a 3rd centre back to free up our other two. Will break up any attacks going through the middle and will be efficient in his passing.

Benat and Lulic: They will be expected to work tirelessly today. Covering every blade of grass in both defence and attack. Defensively, they will be looking to press the ball in the middle to stop attacks at their source. Offensively, they will be looking to move the ball our wide as quickly as possible and push forward to provide support. When pushing forward, one will sit halfway and the other will push towards the box.

Sam and Mertens: Given free roles to move across the defensive line as our full backs will push to the bylines. They will be looking to get in behind the Villa defence and supply Huntelaar. In defence, they will be looking to double up on Villa’s wingers, whilst keeping an eye on any marauding full backs.

Huntelaar: Will run the length of the line, closing everything down. He will look to shift his body weight around and bully the Villa centre backs, challenging in the air and on the ground for every ball and generally making a nuisance of himself.


Subtitutes:

65 minutes: Neil Taylor for Benat: Taylor is an efficient full back going forwards and defensively. He will replace Asamoah at full back so that Asamoah can move in to the centre with Lulic and work tirelessly in defence and attack. Mertens will be instructed to drop a little deeper to cover.

75 minutes: Kiessling for Huntelaar: Kiessling will provide fresher legs and will act as a poacher, looking for just a single chance to fall for him and he will take it.

80 minutes: Soriano for Lulic: Soriano will come on to add some flair to the midfield. He will be looking to keep hold of the ball if we’re winning or push the ball forward as much as possible if we’re drawing or losing.

Hull City v EVERTON

Injuries: Tyias Browning, Kyle Ebecilio, Oleg Shatov, Jamal Blackman

----------------Schmeichel
Manquillo - Vidic - Ogbonna - Criscito
--------------------Song
-----------Sneijder - Hernanes
Navas ---------------------------- Bernard
-------------------Llorente

Subs: Ruddy, Smalling, Van Aanholt, Capoue, Herrera, Ayew, Doumbia

Hull will be tough but I think we can get at them with our system. Playing a 4-3-3/4-5-1 with Song the experience at DM, a solid back four behind him, and Sneijder and Hernanes in creative box to box roles, as soon as we're on the ball I want us to create chances and have a go at the Hull defence.

Schmeichel - 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.

Vidic/Ogbonna - Vidic to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Ogbonna to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and prevent any runners 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.

Manquillo/Criscito - I want you both to stay with the Hull wingers. 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. When we have possession, push forward and support Navas/Bernard 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 Llorente and link with Sneijder/Hernanes. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Song - Your job is to patrol the back four, stop their AM being able to get involved in the game. In possession give the ball to Sneijder or Hernanes, allow them to create while you stay back. Make sure you protect the defence at all times.

Sneijder/Hernanes - both of you playing in box to box roles, without the ball play alongside Song, both of you to close down the Hull midfielders breaking from deep and work hard to win back possession. With the ball I want both of you to be creative, make late bursts into the area for the crosses coming in. Be around the 20-25 yard mark when crosses are cleared as both of you are very adept at long range shooting. Still try and win back possession with Song even if it isn't your forte. In possession you have creative licence to seek out the wingers and fullbacks making runs out wide, and look on occasion for the ball over the top to Llorente. Link the play between Navas, Bernard, Sneijder, Hernanes and Llorente. Drift in and out of the AM position to drag the Hull DM out of position.

Navas/Bernard - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Hull fullbacks and get crosses in, but both of you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Llorente with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Sneijder and Hernanes, and capitalise on the space Llorente's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.

Llorente - you will be expected to occupy the Hull centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. If they double mark you, drop wide and swap with Navas or Bernard to leave him unmarked and near the goal. 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 and get you one on one with the keeper. Look for Sneijder and Hernanes playing the ball over the top and make sure you're timing your runs perfectly.

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Hernanes and Llorente off, Song and Doumbia on. Song to CM, switch to more defensive 4-5-1 with Doumbia on for his pace on the break.
If drawing: Llorente and Bernard off, Doumbia and Ayew on. Fresh legs same system, push for the win.
If losing: Song off, Doumbia on. Switch to 4-4-2, Sneijder and Hernanes CM, Doumbia and Llorente upfront. Fullbacks bomb forward. Push for goals.