—————————--—Courtois
Corchia———Nkoulou—————Terry———Azpillicueta
————————Matic———Garcia
—Lamela———————————————Griezzman
——————————Rooney
————————————Cavani

Subs: Ryan, Kalas, Montolivo, Nainngolan, Praet, Origi, Bony


Captain: John Terry
Free Kicks: Wayne Rooney/Edinson Cavani(shots); Antoine Griezzman(delivery)
Penalties: Wayne Rooney
Corners: Antoine Griezzman

We look to stamp our authority on this game from the off, using our energy and pace to swarm all over them, penning them back in their half and creating the conditions for our offensive players to do their job. We will squeeze space and player in order to keep them pegged back and compact the pitch to stop quick counter attacks.

http://sharemytactics.com/27036/

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 Cavani 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, if there are none, one FB drops in line with CBs to cover extra CF. If they do get it forward quickly, Matic and Garcia cover the wide areas.

http://sharemytactics.com/27037/

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 been 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.

http://sharemytactics.com/27039/

If from stage one they get the ball central we set up with two banks of four and the two strikers dropping in to press the deeper midfielders, if the midfielders get beyond those two they will have Matic and Garcia 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 Southampton 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 Southampton do.

We want to be on the front foot, putting their defence under pressure from the off so we will go and attack with pace, power and imagination. We want lots of movement in the final third, pushing the FBs forward to stretch things, especially if its WBs we face, we will look to double up down the flanks and then allow the opposite winger to come infield, providing someone to occupy their CB. We want quick transitions from defence to attack, working the ball where we have numbers deeper and then spreading play wide where we can get more space, from these wide areas both FBs will be high up the field, ready to get to the byeline and cross or ready to make clever runs infield and into the channels, stretching the CBs and allowing our CFs to find space. We will have plenty of movement in the front four two, with the wide attacking midfielders free license to roam, getting into the positions where we are causing most danger and working them, either doubling up out wide or central movements in and around the strikers to allow us to link up quickly. The CFs will work off each other, when one drops deeper, the other pulls off looking to open up space, with an AM/FB then looking to run into the channel, giving us the possibility of the deeper striker flicking the ball through for the runners with the other CF waiting for the final ball. We will likely see more possession so we must use it well, at pace always with lots of movement, letting players run at the opposition in order to open up more space, the CMs also allowed to do this to drive us forward. We always have a counter attacking threat, so if we win the ball deeper we look to either get it into the forwards who can then push the ball wide and allow us to break, or we immediately play it wide if there is space. Target wide areas on the break and in general play, stop their FBs having an attacking influence, get at them where they are weaker.

Individual:

Courtois commands his area, collecting crosses and distributing quickly.

FBs get forward when we attack, providing underlaps and overlaps. When defending they stand up to the wingers never diving in, defending with energy higher up the field, but staying close to the CBs in our final third, only pushing out to stop crosses.

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

Matic and Garcia control the game with their energy, move the ball quickly. Garcia provides an extra man in attacks, getting into the box and making a nuisance of himself.

Griezzman and Lamela give us to direct, creative players. Both want to run at the opposition and open up space which we will allow, Lamela using his creativity to find his team mates, whilst Griezzman looks to get into goalscoring positions, can cut inside and go at the CBs.

Rooney and Cavani need lots of movement, especially if its a back 3, we want them moving off each other to drag players about, as well as running the channels, Cavani getting down the sides of the defenders where is lethal and Rooney looking to drop back at times and be the one to find the final ball.

Subs:

If Winning: Nainngolan for Rooney 75’, Garcia plays further forward, Nainngolan adds more bite and someone to hold onto possession. Kalas and Montolivo for Corchia and Lamela 80’, Kalas stronger defensively and good in the air to help with crosses, Montolivo experienced head to help us control the remainder of the game.

If Drawing: Montolivo for Garcia 70’, comes in to add more creative influence. Bony for Cavani 75’, get more aerial balls into him as a Plan B. Origi for Lamela 80’, Rooney play as the RAM. Origi likes to run wide from his central position which will help us stretch them and he loves to run at them, open up a tired defence.

If Losing: Corchia and Azpilicueta off, Kalas and Montolivo on 65’, 3-5-2, Garcia in behind the strikers, Montolivo alongside Matic to create. If we get the goals, Nainggolan for Lamela straight away to help control the game more. If we don’t score, Origi for Matic 75’, Garcia alongside Montolivo, Rooney AM, Origi CF, he runs wide to help double up and open the game up, Garcia comes from deep to add an extra presence in their box.

----------------------Cech
Pizczek------Cahill--------Veltman-------Bernat
-------Eriksen----Bender---Schwein
Di Maria----------------------------------Lavezzi
--------------------Lacazette
Subs: Cesar, Moreno, Schmelzer, Clasie, Willian, Costa, Remy


Subs

2nd Minute: Costa for Lacazette
70th Minute: Willian for Eriksen - put di Maria behind striker, willian on the wing
85th Minute: Schmelzer for Lavezzi

GAME PLAN

For todays game we’re going to try and take the game to Chelsea. We want to crowd out the midfield and slow the game out due to the pace that their side behold. Sanchez has been on terrific form this season so In order to keep him and their other top players out of the game we shall keep the game edgy and cancel them out.

Our most important players today are our central midfielders. All three will be looking to stick to their positions and reduce the amount of space through the middle. This will push the play out wide where I believe we can win the battle. If by some miracle Chelsea get an attack and cross it in, I am 99.9999999999% sure that my centre backs and other defensive minded players can deal with it. We shall keep the defence quite deep today. During an attack they shall not go any further than half way their half, the central 3 players shall stay around the centre circle with only one of schwein or eriksen allowed to attack at any one time. The other three players have the license to roam around the pitch.

On the attack we shall be looking to plant the ball to the wingers who will be looking to use their skill and pace to get the ball to Lacazette. One of Eriksen or Schwein shall go up to help but will only hang around just outside the box when the ball is in their end. Lacazette will always be looking for space in the box so he will always be a target for someone.

On the defensive side all three central players shall stay together in their positions and the two wingers will act as wing backs to reduce the space the Chelsea players behold..

Overall I want my team to play the majority of the game keeping the game slow, physical and breaking up play as much as possible. We want to show them no respect on the pitch and allow for time wasting. We shall keep the game edgy and push their team back.

POSITIONAL TACTICS

Piszczek 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 Piszczek 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. Veltman 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 and Eriksen will be our box-box midfielders. I want them to identify spaces up the pitch. They 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 one of them to move up and stay in space. When off the ball they should be a ball winning players.

I want Di Maria 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 Piszczek cover their full back.

Lavezzi should use his pace and strength to make runs into the box and opening up space for Lacazette. 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 other attackers 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.

Lacazette 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: Di Maria
PK: Di Maria
CK: Di Maria

----------------------------Hugo Lloris
Carvajal-------Sokratis-------Hummels-------Marcelo
-------------Javi Martinez------Luka Modric
-Juan Cuadrado------Mario Gotze----------Sterling
----------------------------Lewandowski

Subs: Marquinhos, Nastasic, Fernando, Kovacic, Coutinho, Chambers, Immobile

Formation: 4-2-3-1 (dropping back to a 4-5-1 defensively)
Freekicks: Modric (Long) Gotze (Short)
Penalties: Lewandowski
Corners: Modric
Captain: Mats Hummels

_____________________________

We go again in the 4-2-3-1 formation, with the idea of playing on the wings and getting the ball in towards Lewandowski. Martinez will take the defensive role whilst Modric is the roam, looking to play quick passes to release our wingers and getting our other attackers into play.

Marcelo will use his experience and speed to win the battle down the left. Marcelo will be allowed to attack, but nust always track back, as must Carvajal. Hummels and Sokratis must be on hand to rescue any mistakes.

Hummels and Sokratis will be playing man to man marking, as we feel they are good enough to fend for themselves, up against what we assume will be a lone RVP. Sokratis goes for the low balls, and also uses his very good awareness to clock runs from incoming players, and source out danger from all angles. Hummels will lead our backline and he is Sokratis' first team partner in defence IRL for Dortmund, and these two were excellent in the second half of last season together. Hummels goes for the high balls, and goes for the second ball, as his lack of pace may be a problem. Sokratis is notably quicker so goes for the first ball, whilst Hummles covers his ass.

Carvajal and Marcelo are given license to burn the wings, seeing as we want Sterling and Cuadradoto both come infield from time to time to add another dimension to our play. Both of them know how to cross a wicked un, and they have a great poacher in the box to aim at.

Sterling is bloody rapid, and must use this pace to run the nuts off the LB. He is an extremely tricky player and makes life hell for the best of defenders, and we can use this quality as a way of distraction, opening up space for Marcelo to join in the attack. Sterling also gets into very good position scoring wise, and when given the signal, must bomb into the box looking to get on the end of crosses.

Cuadrado on the other hand, is much more powerful, and really knows how to beat his man with a Yaya-esque drive on him. He loves running at his man, before taking him out of the game, and should aim to come inside and look to angle a ball into the box, aiming for Lewandowski. Carvajal will be on his outside, and seeing as Cuadrado will want to stay central for long periods of the game, he must always act as the support man. However, he must always be alert and make sure both he and Adriano track back at all times whenever we are under threat. No loitering will be accepted.

Martinez will be the defensive cog in our midfield, as he likes sitting back and getting the ball played to his feet. He isn’t really expected to come out of position, but is allowed the odd run up to the edge of the box to keep his awareness levels high. Javi can be tough tackling, but we don’t want him to be reckless. We must limit the amount of Freekicks conceded as they could turn out to be a source of goals for the opposition. Martinez is also a great passer of the ball, and loves threading through balls of his own across the pitch. This will be another source of danger for City, as Martinez is much more than your every day CDM. He is also quality in the air, and will be a threat from corers and freekicks.

Alongside Javi, Modric will be the star of the show. Dictating the play is his cup of tea, and not only will he act as the go-to guy, he will be our midfield enforcer too, as he loves coming forward with the ball and connecting with the attackers. He has a great shot on him too, so is welcome to whip one when he’s feeling goal hungry.

In AM we have Gotze. He loves playing behind Lewa and he has the vision required to set up Lewa on a plate. Gotze must use his dribbling abiility to get into the box where he can cause severe damage. He is allowed to shoot from range, but his objective is to look for gaps in the defence to play in our attackers.


Up front is Lewandowksi and he is thriving off our recent successes. Lewandowski will be the main source of goals, but he must make sure he gets on the end to all crosses, and when he is feeling isolated, he must do something about it. He is quality in and around the box, so musn't be afraid to run out with his back to goal, in order to get involved in the passing game. He must connect with Gotzem who plays in the hole behind him, and also must use his vision to play in the wingers. Lewa is one of the best when it comes to playing the ball with his back to goal. He is allowed to step out and take the ball on his chest/feet as his eye for a pass is brilliant for a striker. He must always try to be within 15 yards of Gotze, as the best of partnerships require two players to be close to each other at all times. He can use his passing ability to play in our attackers, but his main job is to control his movement in the box so he can be ready for crosses into the box.

__________________________________________

Subs:

If Drawing 60mins:

Immobile > Cuadrado, 4-4-2, Immobile partners Lew up top, with Sterling left and Gotze right

If winning 60mins:

Fernando > Sterling, offers more steel, off the back of an excellent pre season and really does hold the fort:

----------------------------Ter Stegen
Carvajal-------Sokratis-------Hummels-------Adriano
-------------Javi Martinez------Fernando
-Juan Cuadrado------Luka Modric-----Mario Gotze
----------------------------Lewandowski

Coutinho > Gotze, straight swap, Coutinho very hard working and has lots of quality on the ball, and his energy will keep City busy

If losing 60mins: Lukaku > Martinez + Kovacic > Cuadrado:

-----------------Kovacic--------Modric
------------------------Mario Gotze
----------------------------Sterling
------------Lewandowski-------Immobile

We go to a 4-2-1-1-2 with Sterling playing just off Lewandowski. Push our fullbacks up a notch and play direct with pace.

Damien Martinez
Sergio Busquets
Phillip Lahm
Aymerick Laporte
------------------------Hart---------------------
Boateng-----Kompany---Vermaelan---Gibbs
-----------------------Blind---------------------
-------------YayaToure---Ramsey-------------
Milner---------------------------------Ronaldo
------------------------Aguero-----------------

Subs:
Daryll Janmaat
Alexsander Kolarov
Ander Herrera
David Silva
Marco Reus
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain
Jackson Martinez
--------------------------------------------------
IF LOSING 65'
Milner > Reus - attacking mindset
70'
apply above
Blind > Silva
80'
apply above
Vermaelan > Martinez

IF DRAWING 70'
Ramsey > Silva - 4-2-3-1
80'
apply above
Milner > Reus
Gibbs > Kolarov

IF WINNING 70'
Ronaldo > Kolarov
75'
apply above
Ramsey > Janmaat. Milner infield. Janmaat RM 4-5-1 defenive wingers
80'
apply above
Aguero > Martinez
-------------------------------------------------

Tactics:
At home with the crowd behind us, we've gone for a tough, energetic midfield today. The reason why I have gone for Boateng at RB is because I feel a defensive, experienced back four is the better option today as United have bags of quality. Boateng also played this position really well at the world cup. We look to win the midfield battle and I feel we have massive advantage with the extra man and also fitter players along with more strength. I start with Milner on the RW. United's biggest threat is Arjen Robben so I am trying to minimize his threat. Milner is an exceptional team player and I want him back helping out Boateng and doing a 2 on 1 job on Robben. Also we instruct him down the line and not inside where he is dangerous. In midfield we look to dominate possession with our extra man and look to bully United's midfield with our size and strength advantage.

Ronaldo vs Alves is the battle that I would like to point out. This is where the game could be won today for us I feel. Alves will have to be extremely disciplined if he is to keep Ronaldo quiet and not play his own natural game which is to attack. I feel Ronaldo will be left with space so therefore we have a massive advantage here. This could disrupt the whole United defence, bringing them out of position etc.

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. We line up in a 4-3-3 with Blind protecting the back four, Ramsey box to box and Yaya as the most advanced midfielder. When we don’t have the ball, I want my players to rush the opposition and press them. Milner and Ramsey both have a great engine and will not stop rushing opponents into mistakes. Yaya will use his mere presence to his advantage.

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.

Boateng and Gibbs will be our full backs. Gibbs will do the majority of the attacking today, while Boateng does it on the rare occasion. I want three back at all times.. Also I want them to defend responsibly and not risk being caught out. They mark man for man and force the opposition down the line.

Kompany and Vermaelan, 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. Kompany and Vermaelan will stay close to each other not allowing the opposition to open up space. Vermaelan 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 Kompany stays in position when Vermaelan does this covering the remaining space, he will be able to clear the second ball if it gets beyond Vermaelan.

Blind will be the anchor man, picking up the furthest midfielder of the opposition but he also has an amazing left foot at his disposal. He will pick his head up when he has the ball and look for quick passes to the wing or to whoever is in space. We need to be clinical today. Also when Gibbs is out of position he will drift towards left back whilst Ramsey/Yaya go deeper.

Ramsey and Yaya will play their normal game. Ramsey will be the deepest out of the two and looks to make late surges into the box getting at the end of balls. I’ve already explained how he will defend. Ramsey will also look to feed off Aguero.
Yaya has the biggest licence out of the two. His presence provides a massive advantage. He will look to carry the ball forward taking opposition players out of the game.

Ronaldo + Milner: 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 United's defence and drill in low balls and cutbacks, or they can drive at the defence and cause them problems. Milner must always stay on the wing Robben is playing

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.

------------------- De Gea -------------
Sagna --- Ivanovic --- Dante -- Coentrao
----------- De Rossi --- D.Luiz ---------
Schurrle --------- M.Ozil -------- E.Hazard
---------------- R.Van Persie -----------------

Subs : Caballero, Nagatomo, Tiago, Wilshere, Pastore, Ribery, Bacca
-----------------
Wilshere > Luiz – 60th min – Wilshere will provide fresh spark and energy looking to support the midfield and getting the ball into feet.

Ribery > Ozil - 60th min - (Hazard AM, Ribery LW) - Hazard look to use his drive and penetrate their defence whilst Ribery provides the width.

Bacca > RVP - 70th minute - A new threat up front I want Bacca to bully their tiring defence looking to create chances.
----------------------
The outline:
We're at home today so we want to dominate, a exciting attack combined with a solid defence we have more than enough in our locker to overcome the opposition. I generally want us to keep things simple though and the rest will fall in place.

We must play with high intensity however we need to know when to press and when to sit off. We start high up as we want to leave them with no option but to kick deep as we feel we have players better equipped to win aerial duels and thus regain possession. This should mean we have more of the ball and they tire looking to chase our shadows throughout the game.

In defence we look to defend deep as we feel this suits our CB’s best in looking to cut off any supply to their striker. We’ll look to dominate physically looking to bully off the ball showing who’s boss. Ivanovic and Dante must dominate from the outset and their experience should come to the fore. In midfield De Rossi and Luiz must maintain the pressure and look to disrupt the play.

Attacking wise I want us to stretch them as much as possible today as with the vision of Ozil and Luiz and the pace and movement of Hazard and Schurrle we can really expose their frailties.

Subs should ensure we continue to dictate on our terms.
-----------------
Individual tactics:

De Gea has strong competition with the arrival of Caballero so must be on his toes, I want him to command his area, very vocal, quick off his feet and distribution swift and on point.

FB’s both very solid defensively and must look to keep it simple today, we need to present from the outset that it will take an almost striking effort to get past these two, I want us to get as physical as possible looking to muscle them off the ball and generally looking to use a bullying demeanour. Our wingers need to assist them as much as possible doubling up on the opposition’s and not giving an inch so we can prevent them cutting inside and imposing themselves.
Ivanovic and Dante add additional layers to our defensive solidarity, Ivanovic is as committed as they come and should look to lead the line. He’s responsible for marking their main striker today and should firmly look to get stuck in going toe to toe with every challenge and pushing him back as much as possible, I want us to suck as much confidence out of their striker as possible due to his limited involvement so he makes fewer runs and worth ethic is questioned. Dante partners Ramos and is entirely in his comfort zone. He should look to keep an eye on second runners and look to keep everything in check generally staying alert to any danger.

De Rossi and Luiz add force and bite to our midfield, De Rossi is the powerhouse and should look to flex his muscles and get snapping at heels. He must work tirelessly for the full 90 setting the perfect example to others as we work collectively to keep them out. Luiz starts today as he provides the perfect balance between attack and defence however he must stay disciplined. I want him working in tandem with De Rossi looking to run himself into the ground, in terms of a counter attack approach, Luiz has the ability to pick out an inch perfect pass without hesitation, we need him on the ball to get that transition from defensive duties to attack so our attackers have the space and time to hit the opposition hard within seconds.

Ozil will act as the focal point, we generally want everything to pass through him. I want him pulling the strings and dictating the play. He knows when to play that inch perfect pass and the movement from our attackers should benefit him massively today.
The wingers must support, Schurrle is very good at finding space and making off the ball runs, Hazard very direct looking to take on players and cutting inside to good measure looking to make things happen.

RVP is the perfect foil for us up top today, v well experienced at playing such a role and will defiantly get the better of defenders as he is strong, powerful and can hold his own. A very willing runner and likes to get involved as much as possible whilst not the type to get bogged down. He’ll look to link-up with others as much as possible and rile their defenders both on and off the ball.
----------------
C - RVP
FK's/corners - Ozil/ Luiz
Pens - RVP

SOUTHAMPTON versus Liverpool

Ospina
Matip Fazio Lombaerts
Lichtsteiner Sissoko Sandro Asamoah
Valbuena Mertens
Huntelaar

Substitutes: Kitanov; Insua; Taylor; Tiote; Diego; Menez; Cardozo

Captain: Lichtsteiner
Penalties: Huntelaar
Corners: Mertens
Free Kicks (Long): Asamoah
Free Kicks (Short): Valbuena

Game Plan:

The way we are setting up for today’s game is designed to choke out any play in the centre of the pitch and to minimise the threats from wide that Liverpool are renowned for. We are looking to be compact in our defence and swift in our attack as our best chances will likely come from breaking at gaps in the Liverpool set up. With this in mind, our line-up is split in to two sections – with the front three of Mertens, Valbuena and Huntelaar providing the majority of the attacking flair and the rest of the team providing the solid foundation upon which we will build. We are setting up with 3 centre backs and two wing backs with the intention of nullifying Liverpool’s two greatest treats: their forwards and their wingers. With this formation, we will be looking to man mark Liverpool’s attackers whilst having a man left over to sweep up from behind. Our central midfielders will be tireless in their closing down and they will be looking to intercept passes through the centre and to get the ball up to our front men as quickly as possible.

There will be no room for slow, methodical passing in this game and so we want to get at Liverpool as quickly as possible in order to secure an early advantage. It will be a fiery game with plenty of strong players and tough tacklers and my side will be encouraged to give as good as they get and to fight for every ball without any mercy.


Individual Plans:

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.

Matip, Fazio and Lombaerts: Matip and Lombaerts will be looking to get close to the two Liverpool forwards, using their pace and strength to test the attackers and to force them away from goal. They will be strong, stand up to their man and always look to keep goal side. Fazio will sweep across the back, looking to collect any loose balls and to stop any forwards that manage to break through. All three will go up for set pieces and try to get a goal.

Lichtsteiner and Asamoah: In defence, they will drop deep in to a 5-4-1 and will look to track the runs of the wingers, making sure they can’t cut inside and attempting to stop the cross as soon as possible. In attack, they will push up the field, forcing Liverpool back and will look to hit crosses in from wide.

Sandro and Sissoko: They will need to be strong, quick and energetic. They will sweep in front of the back five and will look to stop the Liverpool forwards if they drop deep, otherwise they will be tasked with stopping Liverpool’s midfield and their wingers, should they manage to cut inside. In attack, they will look to get the ball upfield as quickly as possible and provide support from deep.

Valbuena and Mertens: In defence, they will drop deep to the wings and look to track the runs from the Liverpool full backs – effectively creating a 5-4-1 in defence. In attack, they will look to play off Huntelaar and run at the centre backs as much as possible. They will be given free roles to attack where they can and to shoot whenever they have a chance at goal.

Huntelaar: Huntelaar will run the length of the Liverpool line, closing down and forcing Liverpool to play out quicker than they would like. He will be instructed to throw his weight around and try to win every ball and every second ball. He is very good in the air and will be relishing the aerial duel with Liverpool’s back line.


Substitutions:

If losing/drawing:

70 minutes: Diego for Sandro: Diego will move further forward and will look to play through balls behind the Liverpool defence.

80 minutes: Menez for Valbuena: Menez will provide skill, direct attacks and pace.

85 minutes: Cardozo for Huntelaar: Arguably stronger in the air than Huntelaar. He wiill look to bully the Liverpool centre backs.


If winning:

70 minutes: Tiote for Valbuena: Tiote will slot in with Sissoko and Sandro in order to completely crowd out play in our final third.

80 minutes: Cardozo for Mertens: Will look to play as a target man with Huntelaar. Southampton will drop deeper as a unit and Cardozo and Huntelaar will provide the perfect outlet – holding up the ball and looking to bring our wing backs and central midfielders in to the game deep in to the Liverpool half.

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

Tactics vs Man City

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

Srna---------Otamendi-------------Musacchio---------Sandro

---------------------Witsel-------Moutinho----------------------

Walcott----------------Rodriguez-------------------L.Moura

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


Game plan: our plan today is to go at City from the off, we're experimenting with a new team and system and will be looking to express ourselves and get back back on track after 2 defeats in a row. We will look to press high up the pitch, Successful pressing is dependant on group understanding, collective perception of ball, opponent and team mate, and a massive amount of hunger and desire to have the ball. It isn’t possible to press for 90 minutes. We will have to pick our times wisely in order to do it successfully. If our players are tracking back or not close enough to the ball it isn't sensible to press the ball, we will look to capitalise on poor passes by the opposition or when a player is facing his own goal or has his head down when receiving the ball, at these times to opposition player does not have a full view of the pitch and cannot pick a forward pass.

In possession we will have many lines of players in order to create easy triangles for the players on the ball, the player on the ball should always have at least 2 passing options, the full backs will also go forward creating an almost 3-4-3(2-3-2-3)formation when in possession, this reverts to a 5-4-1 formation when we lose possession.

In possession

-------------Otamendi-------------------------Musacchio----------

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

--------------------Moutinho-----------Rodriguez-----------------

Walcott------------------------------------------------L.Moura

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

out of possession

Srna------Otamendi-------------Musacchio--------Sandro

---------------------Witsel---------Moutinho--------------------

Walcott--------------------James-------------------Berardi

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


Scuffet: very young, but a fantastic goalkeeper, excellent shot stopper and very confident coming off his line, will look to release the ball quickly in order to start attacks, when he gets the ball the full backs will push forward and the centre backs will spread out offering themselves for the pass, will only go long if there is no other option.

Defence: as has been spoken about in the game plan section, the full backs will look to push up the field when we are in possession creating the multiple lines across the pitch which is the basis of our possession philosophy. The central defenders will look to stay close to one another when out of possession, the full backs will also tuck in leaving little room in the centre of the pitch, while the midfield and attack will cover the defence of the wide areas, this is not the specific job of one player as we are playing in a fluid system, it will be whoever is available to do the job at that point in time.Otamendi and Musacchio are to talk to each other constantly and be wary of the movement of the RVP but they will not be sucked out of position, Witsel and Moutinho will be providing cover in front of the back 4, so if the CF wants to drop off, the CB's are to hold their position and communicate to Witsel and Moutinho that they have an extra man to watch.

Midfield and Attack: Witsel will by and large stay in position in the holding role in the midfield. He will look to snuff out space for the opposition attacking players, and always be available for a pass when we are in possession. The 4 players in front of Axel will play very fluidly, and as has already been stated they will look to press the opposition when the time is right, all 4 possess good pace and stamina and are able to get up and down the pitch.

Moutinho will get up and down the pitch throughout, has terrific energy and is very creative and can carry the ball, will look to move the ball quickly, as will the whole team, we will play with a high tempo throughout the game not giving Leicester any breathing space.

James will look to find space in possession, whether that means moving wide or into the gaps between the lines, he has the ability to run at the opposition and take the opportunity to shoot and link with Rossi, Walcott and Lucas who will bomb forward and provide an outlet in the wide areas. We will look to get James on the ball as much as possible as he is our most creative players. He will have a lot of freedom to roam and find space throughout the match.

Giuseppe Rossi will play as the centre forward for us today, his pace, movement and energy suits the change in the way we are going to play, he will look to roam across the pitch, dragging defenders out of position which will leave space for the other attackers and our midfield to benefit from, as stated previously in the tactics he is part of the fluid front 4 we are playing with today so will pop in different areas of the pitch on occasion, we are not just going to throw the ball into the box at every opportunity so his running of the channels and his technical ability are crucial in the way we want to play.

Subs if winning - Marchisio for Moutinho 80' sits in the double pivot next to Witsel to break up opposition possession

Markovic for Walcott 84 - Will play with a greater defensive work ethic to close out the win. A potent threat on the break as the opposition push forward

If loosing/drawing -

Rodrigo for Rossi 75' Plays off the last man, James looks to pick him out

Marchisio for Moutinho 85 switch to 4132

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

Ill go with what's posted

Flanagan in for Srna, then.

No more tactics

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

What

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

posting it early cuz am flying off again on thursday

ASTON VILLA

4-2-3-1

_______________________Navas______________________
Zabaleta________Mertesacker___Koscielny__________Cole
_______________Fernandinho____Verratti______________
Koke___________________Kroos____________________Son
______________________Sturridge_____________________
SUBS: Begovic, Toprak, Coleman, Gustavo, De Bruyne, El Shaarawy, Destro

Captain: Toni Kroos
Right free-kicks: Toni Kroos
Left free-kicks: Toni Kroos
Penalties: Daniel Sturridge
Right corners: Toni Kroos
Left corners: Toni Kroos

GEGENPRESSING is a highly-organised approach and will be our approach to regaining possession and minimising space for the opposition. My opponents are rapidly closed down by well-rehearsed, co-ordinated pressing movements, often by two or more players, allied with intelligent positioning to restrict space for opposition to pass and move into. The best moment to win the ball is immediately after after my team just lost it. Once we have regained possession, the transition from defence to attack will be explosive. We will be an attacking team. Aim is to move the ball around efficiently and with purpose, with many forward passes and none of Spain’s useless sideway passes. Play on the counter if dominated, but move the ball around when they sit back. Passing will be quick and intelligent, players moving into space and plenty of interchange between the three attacking midfielders. Team will look at the striker as the focal point with attacking midfielders running off and beyond him, linking up efficiently. When defending Kroos and Koke will drop back to help, Son stays up as the out ball and Sturridge prepared for anything lumped up to him. Team must attempt to block shots at all times. Deep defensive line. * When defending we will play two banks of four and be compact leaving little space in between the lines. So when defending we will go into this mode:

Koke - Gustavo - Gerrard - Kroos
Sturridge - Son

And when we get the ball we will look to set loose the speedsters up front with the whole team pushing up a bit to at least outside our 18 yard box and switch back to our normal formation.

Navas:
Claim crosses if possible. Always clear lines and play safe, take no risks. Looks to set off counters with his distribution.

Mertesacker and Koscielny:
Deals with opposition attackers. Koscielny keeps an eye on their attacking midfielder when he gets close to the 18 yard line. Koscielny will also mark their striker closely not allowing him space to turn. Koscielny or Fernandinho will deal with knock-downs to their supporting player depending on who is closer. Mertesacker will try and win headers when long balls are played towards the back line. Mertesacker will also clean up any balls / players who manage to get past Koscielny. Koscielny will be the centre half who steps up and clears up balls before it reaches their attackers, but must only go if he’s 100% sure he’ll get it. Go up for corners. If in the event that an attacking midfielder / second striker is not played then Koscielny will just have to deal with the midfield runner but not get dragged too far out of his defensive line.

Zabaleta and Shaw:
Zabaleta will be disciplined for this match, but when we get the ball and whoever the opposition manager plays goes on one of his inside runs Zabaleta will look to overlap Koke and run into the box. Zabaleta and Shaw both will show the opposition wide players to their weak foot, threat weakens when they are shown away from goal. Both will sit back when without the ball, but Shaw will bomb forward when the opportunity arises. Main aim is to provide width and provide extra bodies in midfield to link up play. Stays back for corners. Must not commit to tackles otherwise wingers will skip past them, just stay close, limit their space and show them onto their weaker foot.

Fernandinho and Verratti:
Sits deep, breaks up play and snap at their heels. Fernandinho is an engine that can cover a lot of ground when defending. Fernandinho will hardly ever go past the half-way line. Verratti will buzz around and dictate play, bursting forwards at times to provide an extra body in attack. Verratti will be a bit ahead of Fernandinho to be more involved in exchanging passes with full backs / Kroos, even going level with Kroos at times to use his incredible vision to find teammates. Verratti will need to make himself a goal threat with his late runs into the box in this match. Fernandinho stays close to the centre halves. Both sprays balls wide to fullbacks when they get forward. Stays back for corners. Will not allow the opposition any time on the ball in front of centre halves. Fernandinho sticks to position when fullbacks fly forwards, providing cover if needed. Verratti drops deeper when this happens.

Koke, Kroos and Son:
Will constantly swap positions with each other. Will look to thread through balls to Sturridge and exchange passes with each other. Constantly drifting in and out of position, into space to make it difficult to mark. Can cross when out wide. Koke should always track back to help the fullbacks and midfield when defending. Kroos can burst past Sturridge and shoot if needed. Constantly runs at their defence. All will press the opposition when without the ball. Koke will be drifting inside a lot and because he has stamina of six men he will therefore chase down the ball a lot and aim to create when he gets the ball. In this match when we don’t have the ball I will need Son to sit on their deep lying midfielder and disrupt him. When Zabaleta gets forward during his rare forward runs Son will attempt to find him at the far post for Zabaleta to knock the ball across goal for Sturridge Kroos Verratti to knock in, with Koke arriving late to gobble up possible rebounds. They will also try and double up on a full back if required (like Robben and Ribery both attacking the same fullback).

Sturridge:
Holds up the ball, brings the three attacking midfielders into play. Play on the shoulder of the last man, always sets himself at the far post for crosses. Will keep the centre halves occupied. Will chase down opposition centre halves when they have the ball.

SUBS:
Winning/Drawing:
75 mins: Verratti OFF Gustavo ON
Gustavo replaces Verratti and we go 4-3-3 with Kroos dropping back. We will then aim to keep the ball for as long as possible even if we have to do pointless sideway passing but if space opens up, work the ball forwards to try and create a chance.

Losing:
75 mins: Fernandinho OFF Destro ON
Go 4-2-4 with Destro Sturridge centre Koke right Son left. Kroos supports, Verratti holds and sprays passes from deep. All out attack, have to go level at least if not win it. When we lose the ball Koke goes central to provide support in centre mid and Sturridge goes to the right to provide that outlet. Switch back when we have the ball. Both full backs go forwards in turns and we will squeeze them back into their 18 yard box. Our CBs will not stick too close to the striker in case they get turned, Koscielny will be ready to chase back towards goal while Mertesacker will position himself to nick the ball off the attacker as soon as he gets it. Whatever second attacker from the opposition will be watched by the full back staying back depending on which side.

Scored the goal(s) to get all three points / to win the tie ONLY AFTER the Destro change:
Whatever minute: Sturridge OFF Toprak ON
Whatever minute: Son OFF El Shaarawy ON
They’re gonna pen us back whether we like it or not, so we will go 5-4-1 with Toprak slotting into a back 5. Kroos will come into the centre along with Verratti with Koke right and El Shaarawy left, Destro up front. El Shaarawy will provide the counter attacking threat when we win the ball back and him and Destro will break at their (supposedly) abandoned defence. This is not me playing defensive football voluntarily, this is the opposition forcing us into our box like we would’ve forced them into theirs and me providing a counter measure to this situation.

---------------------Karius----------------------
----------D.Vrij-----Vlaar-----V.Dijk----------
Hutton----------------------------------Baines
----------------Delph-----Barry----------------
---------------------Kagawa--------------------
------------B.Yedder------Di Natale-----------

Diba, Reid, Cleverley, Sneijder, Atsu, Rhodes, D.Villa


Going with the 352 when attack. Still a work in oprgress but these players are out to prove they deserve the shirt. It working so far to an extent so tweek the system, a little and a couple of player changes.

Back 3 with Vlaar in the middle, he is the Captain and spare CB, he shouts instructions to those around him and will always be their to lend a hand iof need be, always dominate when going for high balls, and can start attacks from the back, can drive up the pitch but only when in no danger. D. Vrij & V.Dijk sit in when he does this, but as a back 3 they sit in tight, D.Vrij and V.Dijk looking to take care of the CF, where ever he goes leaving Vlaar again as said spare to watch for the AM coming through. Hutton and Baines have tough shifts ahead, up and down the pitch spporting defence and attack, when they come forward into defence to create a 5 man barrier for them to try and break down, and attack look to get on the over lap to support the forward 3, either take the ball down the line or at very least there fullback freeing up space for our wingers to take advantage of.

Delph is a tireless runner always getting onto the face of his opposite number. A real pain to go up against, push them back and stop them dictating play, when he drives forward he is partial to a long ranger so give it a go. Barry dictates our play from deep, doesnt move that far forward but can play the killer pass to the wide men or Di Natale to latch onto for them to drive in on goal, will sit in with Delph and break up play and mark there most advanced AM.

kagawa I want to drive at them today and support the front two best they can, Kagawa will use his skill to get him passed players with Baines/Hutton he plays the ones twos that get him beyond the fullbacks and for low driven crosses into Ben Yedder and Di Natale.

Di Natale and Ben Yedder is somthing new i want to try, both with a low centre of gravity which makes them difficult to mark, will be bullied by the big Cbs so just let them, take the hit win a FK. Fantastic in front of goal. Just move around looking and waiting for the perfect opportunity to get into the danger area. Always moving and getting into space and paying off each other, This could be a prolific partnership and against a defence not used to seeing two up front so really push there defence back. When in retreat I want Ben yedder to push wide and watch for there Fullbacks moving ofrward and go to the side most likely its going to start from.

Captain - Vlaar
Penalties - Di Natale
Corners - Kagawa
Free Kicks - Kagawa

Subs:-
Losing -
65 Mins - David Villa for Ben Yedder
75 Mins - Sneijder for Delph
83 Mins - Rhodes forV.Dijk - 4213

Winning -
70 Mins - Cleverley for Ben Yedder sit in midfield
80 Mins - D.Villa for Di Natale

Drawing -
70 Mins - D.Villa for Ben Yedder, Sneijder for Kagawa, Cleverley for Delph

-----------------------Neuer-----------------------
Debuchy------Varane------Bonucci------Ricardo
----------------------Iturraspe---------------------
-----------------Pogba------Vidal------------------
Mirallas------------------------------------Neymar
----------------------Benzema---------------------

Krul, Sciglio, Vidic, Guarin, Memphis, Kiessling, Thorgan

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 Varane 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. Bonucci alongside will mark any big men that come up for corners etc and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger, will help out Varane if needed.
Ricardo and Debuchy 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, always watchful for the AM 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 threewith Vidal taking care of the more advanced CM when he comes forward. They will break up play and get it moving forward, most likely Vidal to burst forward to assist Benzema. His goal record for a CM is fantastic and can score from varous angles/ranges, he is a very dynamic player with great stamina, one who never gives up. He thrives with Pogba in the midfield and they will be no pushovers. Pogba is sort of mix of the two, can pass the ball about, defend the lines and also break forward. A very cool head for such a young lad. 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 jsut a bit behind.

Mirallas and Neymar are class. 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, Neymar focusses more on the ttricks and twists to see him passed, whereas Mirallas likes to make the pass that gives him time to look for space for him 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 there defence with pace and power

Benzema back 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 also supporting we are a huge goal threat to anyone. I want quick football as they arent the biggest of lads, ball to feet and always looking up for a pass..

Captain - Vidal
Penalties - Benzema
Free kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers

Subs -
Losing/drawing
65 Mins - Depay for Mirallas, swithc with Neymar
75 Mins - T.Hazard for Iturraspe, go in front of Vidal/Pogba
82 Mins - Kiessling for Debuchy 3-4-1-2 (losing)
82 Mins - Kiessling for Benzema

Winning -
70 Mins - Guarin for Pogba - fresh legs in the middle
80 Mins - Sciglio for Neymar more defence minded out wide, but still good going forward
85 Mins - Depay for Benzema, youthful energy, quick and hound them down

Red Card:- (always 4-4-1)
Neuer - Krul of for Iturraspe
FB - Sciglio for Iturraspe
CB - Vidic for Iturraspe
WG - Depay for Iturrapse
CF - Depay on for Iturraspe

82 Mins - Kiessling for Debuchy 3-4-1-2 (losing)
82 Mins - Kiessling for Benzema (drawing)

Chelsea v EVERTON

Injuries: Costel Pantilimon, Younes Kaboul, Aaron Lennon, Roberto Firmino
Ineligible: William Carvalho

-----------------Schmeichel
Manquillo - Lovren - Skrtel - Criscito
-------------------- Inler
---------Van Ginkel - Jose Rod
Thauvin -------------------------- Bernard
-------------------Llorente

Subs: Blackman, Ogbonna, Browning, Song, Valero, Hulk, Doumbia

Jose Rodriguez makes his full debut as we try to use the fact we are in a position where any result is a bonus. A very youthful midfield with Van Ginkel, Jose, Thauvin and Bernard all 21 years old or younger. With absolutely no pressure on us this is the perfect time to give them a chance to get at Chelsea and just see how it goes. Playing a 4-3-3/4-5-1 with Inler the experience at DM, a solid back four behind him, Van Ginkel in the box to box role and Jose as our creative and most attacking CM.

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.

Lovren/Skrtel - Skrtel to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Lovren 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 Chelsea 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 Thauvin/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 Jose/Van Ginkel. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Inler - Your job is to patrol the back four, Chelsea will likely play their usual 4-3-3 so they wont have a direct AM but you need to be vigilant whenever Pogba or Vidal breaks from midfield. In possession be our deep lying playmaker, look for the front three or link with your fellow CM's. Our main source of experience in midfield so be a calming figure alongside two younger CM's and make sure we're not overrun in midfield.

Van Ginkel/Jose - Van Ginkel to be our box to box man, without the ball play alongside Inler, both of you to close down the Chelsea midfielders breaking from deep and work hard to win back possession. With the ball I want Van Ginkel to push on past Jose, and make late bursts into the area for the crosses coming in. Be around the 20-25 yard mark when crosses are cleared as you have a thunderbolt of a shot on you. Jose isn't as defensively minded but still try and win back possession with Inler and Van Ginkel, 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 Thauvin, Bernard, Van Ginkel, Inler and Llorente. Drift in and out of the AM position to drag the Chelsea DM (Pirlo or Iturraspe) out of position.

Thauvin/Bernard - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Chelsea 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 Jose and Van Ginkel, 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 Chelsea centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. If they double mark you, drop wide and swap with Thauvin 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 Inler/Jose playing the ball over the top and make sure you're timing your runs perfectly.

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Jose 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: Jose off, Hulk on. Hulk to RW, Thauvin to AM, more of a 4-2-3-1 and push for the winner.
If losing: Jose and Van Ginkel off, Hulk and Doumbia on. Switch to 4-1-3-2, Hulk to RW, Thauvin to AM, Doumbia and Llorente upfront. Inlet to be our quarterback. Fullbacks bomb forward. Push for goals.

Red card: Change to 4-4-1
If Schmeichel - Blackman for Jose
If Manquillo - Browning for Jose
If Lovren/Skrtel/Criscito - Ogbonna for Jose
If Inler - Valero for Jose
If Van Ginkel - Song for Jose
If Jose - no change
If Thauvin/Bernard - Hulk for Jose
If Llorente - Doumbia for Jose

Swansea tactics

-------------------------Diego Alves------------------------
Yedlin---------Rami---------------Albiol------------Maxwell
-------------------Motta-----------Fellaini----------------
Cerci--------------------Michu--------------------Lallana--
----------------------------Negredo-------------------------

Subs: Baumann, Contento, Rio, Ince, Lanzini, Torres, Rondon

General: We want to press high as we think we can unsettle their defence and midfield by over-powering and over-running them with bodies. We feel that they can't handle our speed and strength and tempo of passing. We will have balance but will take the game to Newcastle and will not give them a moments rest. We shall press every avenue and make our players work hard and sensible rather than like headless chickens. We hunt in packs. The tempo will be brutaly fast and we have to be be direct and target their defence who we feel can be beaten by pace.

Defence
Alves commanding his goal and well aware of the striker/s he will be facing so he has to be on his toes and stay on his feet as long as possible.
The CB's will dominate in the air and take is a reason why we are pressing so they panic and clear and we regain the ball and play it quick. The full-backs have to be aware of the threat so no gung-ho attacking but Yedlin is the speediest so he will be more confident of tracking pace for pace against anyone and is a nifty tackler too. They defence will remain solid and look to shun out with aggression. If we win the ball quickly, we distribute it safely but quickly.

Midfield
We start with Motta as the holding midfielder whilst Felaini joins the midfield to press the midfield.
---Cerci--------Fellaini-------Michu-------------Lallana
We press in packs and very important we dont over do it by leaving gaps centrally even though Motta is covering.
Fellaini will win all the set-pieces and vital that we target him for set-pieces. Open play he will be charging up and down and pressing to win the ball back high and we can attack them when they are vulnerable. With Cerci and Lallana, they will be using the width and target the fullbacks in most cases. We feel that their full-backs will be no match for our speed and guile. We run at them and make sure we keep at them if they are in posession. Michu will also be assisting Negredo by hunting together if their defence has the ball as we want them to hit it high and mighty and expect our defence to win with ease. Michu has the ability to change gears and has a brilliant shot on him so our tactic as he is direct and his tempo is always high. We look for Negredo when he runs into space as we know he has the beating of their defence.

Forward
He posesses that pace with will give their CB's grief all game so he will play off the last defender and make their life hell by constantly on the move and knowingly that our midfield will pass it perfectly for him. He will be chasing down the defence and not give them any rest.

Subs:
Torres on for Negredo 75mins (same role)
Ince for Fellaini 75mins (same role)

Manchester United vs West Brom, Old Trafford

With only one win out of our last four league games, this is a must win game. We need a big effort to get the fans back on our side after a poor run.

Attacking 4-4-2, playing a high pressing game with plenty of width. Atletico and City have showed this formation can be hugely successful, and we feel this is the right way to go about attacking WBA.

Take the game to West Brom high up the pitch. Tevez plays in the number 10 role, Dzeko the out and out forward. Stretch the game, we press high up the pitch, attack down the wings.

------------ G.Buffon
D.Alves – Pepe – Vertonghen – Telles
---------- Khedira – Vilhena
Navas ------------------------- Shaqiri
---------- C.Tevez
---------------- E.Dzeko

Subs. Zieler, Smalling, Schneiderlin, Cazorla, Fabregas, Wellbeck, Balotelli

We will look to defend high up the pitch, playing a high pressing game. Tevez leads from the front with his natural high work rate. By defending high up the pitch in WBA’s half it will make it more difficult for them on the ball, they will find it hard to link their defence and attack, and we aim to isolate their furthest forward players.

While with two banks of four, we will have a solid defence to build upon. 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 play progresses.

Attacking movement in the final third is key. One fb/wg running inside, one going down the line. This ensures we have at least one dummy run, creating space and pulling wba 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 Dzeko/Tevez/opposite wg or Vilhena at edge.

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 is key to our attacking play, looking for fast combination layoffs.

We feel our team has a naturally high work rate, and this will allow us to play the high pressing game. Full of pace we want to move the ball quickly.

Our cms have fantastic energy, one always covers, generally Khedira, as the more disciplined. This also allows us to get Vilhena in the areas where he can hurt WBA.

Get our forwards on the ball in scoring positions.

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. We allow the opposition CBs and GK time on the ball in the final third. But close down midfielders coming deep in this area, pushing our team forward and playing a slightly higher line. Limit their options.
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.
Defending in a 4-5-1 shape at this point, Tevez drops deeper, leaving Dzkeo as the lone forward. 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 Dzeko look to close them down.

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

Khedira and Vilhena drop slightly deeper than the wide men, with Tevez in line with the wide men. This allows one cm to press, and the other to sweep between the lines. Ensuring there is no space between our defence and attack.

We always want at least one more defender than WBA has attacker.

We want our fbs high up the pitch, keeping their wgs in areas they can’t hurt us.

In our half, 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. Option to play long to Dzeko to hold up and bring wingers into play.

Attack down the wings. We have pace and quality in these areas that will hurt the opposition.

When we get down the wings in the final third we want lots of balls into the box for Dzeko and Tevez, Vilhena will look to be on the edge of the box. The opposite wg also seeks to come in from the wide towards the back post.

In the opposition half we will always look to be direct, go forward and stretch the opposition where possible.

Tevez up top will play his natural game as the number 10. Getting involved in all areas of the park. Freedom to be at his best.

Dzeko, likewise has creative freedom. Play his natural game as he feels right.

Subs. If winning after 70 mins bring on Wellbeck for Dzeko. Energy, pace and work rate that wont give WBA a seconds rest.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Oscar for Tevez. 4-2-3-1. Fresh legs.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Schneiderlin for Vilhena. More defensive cover

If drawing after 60 mins bring on Cesc for Vilhena.
If drawing after 65 mins bring on Cazorla for Navas.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Wellbeck for Telles. 3-4-3.
If losing after 50 mins bring on Cesc for Vilhena.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Smalling for Alves and Wellbeck for Telles. 3-4-3. All out attack.

HULL CITY vs Wolves

------------------------------Patricio----------------------------------

Juanfran-------------Benatia--------Musacchio---------Alex Sandro

Berardi--------------Cabaye----Witsel--------Lucas Moura

----------------------------James----------------------------------

----------------------------Rodrigo---------------------------------

subs: Forster, Srna, Marchisio, Rossi, Quintero

Game Plan: We're switching things up this week with a big tactical change, moving away from our high line and fast pressing game and moving more towards a counter attacking philosophy utilising our immense pace out wide and up front. Speed of thought, speed of movement, speed of passing. Very little is as important as speed to counter attack; we have to catch the opponents backpedaling and undermanned and imperative to this is a fast tempo, we have the ability and pace in the side to go from our own area to the opposition area in 3 or 4 passes and just a few seconds.

Rui Patricio: very intelligent goalkeeper, will command his area, very good under the high ball and from crosses, when he has the ball will look to release the ball quickly into wide areas to begin counter attacks, Schmeichel Style

Defence: The importance of the defence in a counter attack is two-fold: first, they must be strong and able to withstand a great deal of pressure, Benatia and Musacchio are both very quick and very good in the air and possess great concentration levels as they must be forever vigilent of runners from midfield and out wide into the channels, Juanfran and Alex Sandro also possess great pace and tenacity in the challenge as well as excellent positional sense, they will look to stop crosses in the wide areas and must also watch the runs of the wide players if they look to make a move inside. The entire back 4 must be in constant communication with each other. Secondly the defence must be able to start attacks from deep, and Benatia and Musacchio are both very accomplished with the ball at their feet and have a great passing range, while Juanfran and Alex Sandro both possess the pace to transition quickly into attack and support the wingers on the overlap.

Midfield: The midfield is the link between defence and attack, as ever, but their role is even more important in a counter attack. Our 2 defensive midfielders Cabaye and Witsel give us extra solidity in front of the defence, as ever, but they also serve a higher purpose in that they will force Wolves wingers to go wide by denying them space to cut into. Since we have big, aerial defenders, this is exactly what we want as we can trust our defenders to win the ball and use their ball skills to play it out nicely. Both Cabaye and Witsel while defensively very disciplined and strong are also very accomplished ball players and are able to start attacks from deep, they will look to use the ball quickly and effectively, they have 4 very quick and intelligent runners ahead of them.

Attack: The most important thing about the four forward most players is that they have the speed and movement to make each attack count, and this is certainly the case with Lucas, Berardi, Rodrigo and James. Rodrigo Moreno is a very intelligent player, who will have litte to no defensive responsibilty in open play, instead he will have to be aware of when the ball is turned over and then use his movement and pace to create space and cause havoc amongst the defence of Wolves on the counter attack. James Rodriguez as the attacking midfielder will also not have a great deal of defensive resonsibility, he is a player oozes flair, composure, decision making, creativity, passing, technique, pace and dribbling, he will use all of these attributes to create chances either for himself or the other forwards, the pace and movement of Rodrigo will open up through ball opportunities for James and he has the skill to execute these chances. Lucas and Berardi will have defensive resposibilty, they must look to drop back and help in wide areas and look to pick up clearances from our own box, they have the pace and energy to then get up the field quickly and transition into attack, they have very intelligent movement and can move inside or stay wide and look to stay on the defence's blind side.

Subs: Marchisio for Cabaye 70 minutes, straight swap.

if winning/drawing after 80 minutes: Nigel De Jong for James Rodriguez, NDJ to play as a holding player, very disciplined player who will snuff out any opportunites that Wolves look to create, we will also look to go more direct and risk free in our attacking player, long balls into the channels for Rodrigo to chase, look to play down time as much as possible.

Captain: Mehdi Benatia
Freekicks: Yohan Cabaye
Pens: James Rodriguez
Corners: Yohan Cabaye

-----------------------Cech
Piszczek------Cahill--------Chiellini-----Bernat
----------- Bender--------Schwein
Di Maria------------Eriksen---------------Lavezzi
---------------------Lacazette

Subs: Cesar, Veltman, Schmelzer, Carrick, Willian, Costa, Remy

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

Piszczek 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 Piszczek 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 Di Maria 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 Piszczek 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 Lacazette. 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, Di Maria and Lavezzi to intersect and change positions.

Lacazette 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.

SUBS

45th Minute and 1 Second – Costa for Lacazette
65th Min – Willian for Eriksen – Willian (RW), Di Maria (AM)
92nd Min – Carrick for Schwein

Captain: Schwein
Vice: Cech
FK: Di Maria
PK: Di Maria
CK: Di Maria