--------------------Guaita----------------------
-------------Dante--Gonzalez--Vlaar-------------
Clyne-----------------------------------Bertrand
-----------------Schweinsteiger-----------------
-------Florenzi----Fellaini----Bonaventura------
-------------------Demba Ba---------------------
BENCH
Lindegaard
Illaramendi
Downing
Aranguiz
Zardes
Going for a new line up this week against Shakhtar, which will hopefully give us the edge. We expect them to play one upfront and a 4-5-1 of sorts with narrow wingers. We are looking to out-think them by playing a system where we expect to keep a clean sheet, and will attack them with physicality in our attack. Overall, our team has the physicality to cope with whatever they try to throw at us.
Dante and Vlaar are both the main centre backs in our system who will hold their normal solid line, but Gonzalez is the key player who has more pace and mobility. He needs to sweep in behind whichever side he is needed. When we get forward, our attacks should be focussed on going down the wings and getting the ball into the box for Ba/Fellaini to win headers which I fancy against their centre backs. Schweinsteiger can also get forward as there are three staying back. A plan B if necessary to hit them faster on the counter, mainly using the pace of Florenzi and Demba Ba.
PLAYER ROLES
Guaita - Save the shots, don't let them score.
Dante/Vlaar - You two are the physicality. Be strong in the tackle, and get tight to Alcacer (if he's on your side). Hold a strong three man defense which is fairly deep with no room to play in behind.
Gonzalez - You need to cover should Dante or Vlaar make a mistake. In particular Alcacer will want to run in behind but he must not be allowed to do that.
Clyne/Bertrand - Get up and down the touchline, you have license to get forward when we have the ball, when we don't, look to force the wingers wide as they will want to come inside.
Schweinsteiger/Fellaini - When we don't have the ball, pressurise their midfielders as they start coming into our half, let them have it if De Rossi/Gabi are going to sit deep with it. Fellaini is the man to silence Toure today. When we have the ball, Schweinsteiger should hover around the edge of the box and look to be the easy option with the pass, while Fellaini should force his way into the box.
Florenzi/Bonaventura - The wing backs will be providing the overlap but I need you two to look to stretch their defense too, creating more room for our central three. Occasionally mix it up by cutting inside, particularly find space between full back and centre back. When they have the ball, I want you two to get narrower than usual and stop their centre midfielders from creating (almost like a diamond - both have played CM IRL this season)
Demba Ba - Lead the line with your power and pace, bully their centre backs, get in their faces not giving them a moments peace. You have the pace to get them on the counter as well.
SET PIECES
Left Corner - Bonaventura
Right Corner - Florenzi
Free Kicks - Schweinstieger
Penalties - Schweinsteiger
SUBSTITUTIONS
If winning - Illaramendi and Aranguiz for Bonaventura and Florenzi to add energy to our midfield (diamond)
If drawing - Zardes and Aranguiz for Bertrand and Fellaini, add pace to our attack to win us the game against a tiring defense. (Bonaventura to LWB)
If losing - Zardes and Downing for Vlaar, Bertrand. All out attack, 4-4-2.
Fiorentino vs Ludy's Galactico's
Injuries:
Locadia
Mastour
Alves
de Jong
.....................Casillas........................
Maggio.......Dede.......Badstuber.......Pasqual
..................Inler........Besic..........................
Darmian..............Iniesta......................Insigne
........................Ibrahimovic............................
Subs: Gordon, Vidic,Van Beek, Vazquez, Toni
Away at Galactico's FC in a top of the table clash.....Now the sensible thing to do would be shore up the centre of the pitch and play for a draw, But that's not how we do things...we're going into this game like "gatto grande"
Injuries we're reasonably kind to us, so it's almost full strength, where as Taiwan have lost Matic and Cescy baby.....
In light of this I expect them to utilise Barry and or Alonso now they're both good players. but pace and mobility aren't in their skill set, so our 3 man midfield will set-up with neat passing triangles as we move the ball about, keeping it moving and running the clock down. All of our players have a certain strength of character and will act as a well drilled machine...sportsmanship is encouraged when it can give us an edge....winning ugly is better than losing pretty
Ludy-kins only ever goes one up top so a 3 man defence is a luxury we don't need today so it's just the two men in the middle
Casillas - All the usual, won't bore you with the finer points about he can catch crosses etc etc....we're going for a bit of smash and grab on the counter, so if Casillas has it and the counter is on then go wide or go long.....if they sit off then just short will do and we'll build from there.
Maggio/Pasqual - 2 experienced players, both have bags of pace and plenty of know-ho...they're both given licence to attack at will today as we impose ourself on Taiwan....Run the lines and make the over-lap...our wingers are coming inside...they'll drag Ludy's wingers back with them, thus alienating Tevez further....Defensively allow the cross, that's bread and butter for us
Dede/Badstuber - Both men standing at 6ft3 will fancy their chances aerially against Tevez's 5ft8 frame....Neither of these two will man mark him...both are sitting off, and holding the 18 yard box...if he drops deep let him, DO NOT move out of position following him....if he runs at you wipe him out ball AND man or man AND ball I'm easy on.
Inler/Besic - Inler comes in for his debut...His job is to man mark Tevez...Tevez floats about so Inler is the man to sit in front of him and intercept any balls coming into feet...aerially he has the height advantage also, but needs to be wary of Dede/Badstuber coming through him....Tevez will will be a tricky opponent but he is their danger-man and Inler will stick to it...if he turns run him into the defence were numbers alone will dictate we get the ball
Besic - Has the pace to be a real box-box midfielder, tidy in possesion will keep things ticking over nicely... defensively Coutinho is his man, a fine talent is the Brazilian but he can go missing but his long distance shooting can not be discounted.
Darmian/Inisgne - Both have a great work ethic and will get up and down all day.....Although I want them no deeper than half-way...that's high enough to keep the pressure on, but close enough to Taiwans goal to keep them dangerous on the counter.
Coleman is a good full back and Insigne will find it hard to get much joy, but as he'll be cutting in to use his sweet right foot and Pasqual running the line we look to over-run the Irish-man...Inisgne will attack the space between Coleman and the Centre-back...I presume it'll be Chiellini as I have a plan for Bonucci
Darmian - Will be up against either Alaba (not good news) or Evra (good news)
The plan stays the same whichever he faces, which is to mirror Inisgne cut inside and attack the gap between full back and centre-back, making the most of his clever footwork and great acceleration hitting the gaps before they're closed off.
Iniesta - The #10 - such fantastic close control, can take a ball under heavy pressure and still bring it down in one touch sitting just off the shoulder of Ibra....clever passes, fantastic vision and one of the best dribblers I ever did see....will run at Taiwans DM's and CB's at every opportunity, drawing men towards him and cheap free-kicks...has the skill to deliver the perfectly weighted pass even at full pelt, the perfect foil for Ibracadabra
Ibra - The man has it all....strength,technique, finishing and heading, will be the spingboard for our team today, whether it be bullying defenders getting onto passes or crosses...or winning aerial battles from long punts downfield....we defend from the top...he's to leave Chiellini be but will put Bonucci under immense pressure....I like Ludy's (Juve' defence...Bonucci has it all but Chiellini although has strong as an ox can be cumbersome...so as Ibra out muscles Bonucci I expect Darmian/Inisgne to really target Chiellini at pace to turn him and either create openings or win free-kicks or even penalties in dangerous areas
Subs
Winning drawing 70 mins - N/A just crack on
Losing 70 Mins
Vazuez > Darmian.....go two up top in a 4-4-2 diamond and power our way through the middle
.....................Casillas........................
Maggio.......Dede.......Badstuber.......Pasqual
...............................Inler.....................
...............Besic................Iniesta.................
...........................Insigne..............................
............Ibrahimovic.........Vazquez.................
FC Pride:
------------------------Enyeama-------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------
Coke------------Luisao----------Castro-----------Blind
-----------------------------------------------------------
Pedro-----------Kouyate---------Masch--------Robben
-----------------------------------------------------------
--------------------PEA--------Afobe--------------------
Subs:
Van Aanholt, Hojbjerg, T. Hazard, Halilovic, Bueno
Injuries:
Immobile
Dybala
Pirlo
Koscielny
Captain: Luisao
Vice Captain: Mascherano
Penalties: Robben
Freekicks: Robben
Corners: Pedro/Robben
The game plan has been changed this week. We try to be an attacking side, but this week we're keen to add more goals to our game. By adding an extra man up front, we hope to put away more of the chances we create.
Enyeama keeps his place in goal, we put last weeks goals against as an off day for the slot giver, perhaps he got out of bed on the wrong side, unless his bed is against a wall then he may have just fallen out of it. He'll command his area and will look to distribute the ball through the defence rather than kicking it out long.
From set pieces he'll stay within his 6 yard box, allowing his defence to deal with anything outside that area.
Coke and Blind will play as the fullbacks. Both have good stamina and know how on the ball. They'll be able to get up and down the flank, with cover from our midfield when they overlap. Only one of them will go forward at a time to keep us solid when under threat from counter attacks.
Luisao and Castro will play in the middle of the back 4. Both leaders in their own right, with vast experience and intelligence. Luisao will look to win the aerial duals and battles, whilst Castro will do more of the leg work.
In the middle of the park we have the box to box, beast that is Kouyate, with the passer and receiver Mascherano. As much as it pains me to say it, I'm looking for a Vieira/Gilberto partnership. Kouyate has the power and stamina to do the box to box role, whilst Mascherano will sit and protect the back 4.
In the right and left midfield roles we have Robben and Pedro, we want to keep them wide on the flanks to give us decent width in attacking areas. I've switched them so their stronger feet give them a better cross on the ball. We'll be looking for earlier crosses round the back of the defence, rather than aerial balls, which will suit the pace of our attackers.
Up front we have Aubameyang and Afobe, plenty of pace, power and goals between them. PEA will look to stretch our opposition, making runs and looking for balls in behind, whilst Afobe will look to come too the ball and give options in front our opponents.
We want to attack our opponents, with speed a precision. Our wide men have the ability to beat their men on the flanks and get balls to the forwards. Their presence will also keep our opponents pinned back. We want to move the ball about with players only having a few touches at a time, pass and move. We'll create triangles to work the ball forward.
Without the ball, we will create more solid banks of players, stifling our opponents passing rhythm and making it tough for them to break us down.
After 75 mins:
If losing -
Hojbjerg > Afobe
Switch to 4-3-3
Coke-Luisao-Castro-Blind
-------------Masch
------Kouyate-Hojbjerg
Robben-----PEA-------Pedro
Last 5 mins:
Bueno > PEA
T. Hazard > Pedro
If winning -
Van Aanholt > Pedro
Hojbjerg > Afobe
Switch to 5-3-2
Coke-Castro-Luisao-Blind-Aanholt
------Kouyate-Masch-Hojbjerg
-----------Robben----PEA
This will make us more solid and compact, but we still have a decent outlet upfront, especially on the counter.
Gosport vs Southend
------------------------Joel
Weisler---Alderweireld---Nastasic---Robertson
-----------------------Rabiot
---------------Wijnaldum--Wanyama
Mané--------------Strandberg------------Jero
Wallace
Targett
Bishop
Armstrong
Sinclair
Tippy is likely to play a side that will centre around neat football and possession retention. To deal with this we have set up with three very energetic and physical central midfielders, to make sure his midfield spend little time on the ball.
When the opposition is on the ball our back four forms a strong, compact unit that is hard to break down. With two energetic and pacey full backs we hope to close out any pressure from the wings, whilst Alderweireld will seek to mark the figurehead of the Southend attack out of the game, nullifying part of their attacking threat. Nastasic may aid this, but can also pose a threat himself as a sweeper centre back, helping prevent runs from midfield and closing opposition down out wide. Off the ball Robertson and Weisler will be allowed to push forward and support the wingers on the overlap, hoping to catch Tippy off guard and exploit his full backs. Whilst we are on the ball Nastasic and Alderweireld will stay back, with Alders sticking close to their striker, and Nastasic prepared to get across and aid in the event of a counter attack. Rabiot will also be staying back, to ensure we are not caught light at the back.
Rabiot himself has a key role in midfield. He must press the opposition attackers, looking to put them off their game, and helping the centre backs strangle the supply that the strikers may recieve. His energy means he will be able to keep up this game throughout, and his physical nature allows him an advantage over most defensive midfielders.
Wanyama and Wijnaldum both must help Rabiot occupy the opposition midfield when they are on the ball. They must be quick to close down and go into the challenge confident of taking the ball. Both have the engines to keep this game up for 90 minutes, pressing constantly whilst not on the ball. When on the ball they must attack quickly, using their momentum to carry them forward. Both have license to shoot from range, and try and test the opposition goalkeeper.
Jero and Mané are tricky wingers, who are capable of getting both assists and goals. They will cut inside and attack the opposition centre backs, drawing the full backs out of position and can then choose to lay the ball off for the overlapping full backs, pull it back to Strandberg or have a shot themselves. They have pace, and aren't afraid to utilise it, however there is more to their game than simply that.
Strandberg will play the fox in the box role, looking to pick up on loose balls and fashion chances out of them. He will look to pick up on rebounds from parried shots and find space within the penalty area for the cross or the pulled back ball.
Notts County vs Cambuur
-------------------------------De Gea--------------------------------
Lichtsteiner----------Gimenez--------Marquinhos--------Bernat
-----------------------------Verratti----------------------------------
------------------Thiago-------------Isco---------------------------
Alexis-----------------------------------------------------Depay
-----------------------------Icardi------------------------------------
Subs: Tolisso, Romagnoli, Herrera, Brahimi, Martial
Game Plan: another big game up against LC's boys today, so we're ready and looking forward to a return to league action after a great cup win, we'll set up in our usual 4-3-3 system, we'll look to dominate possession from the off, every man from 1-11 is very comfortable in possession. By keeping as much possession as possible we'll look to be patient and create space by moving the ball from side to side with a quick tempo, with Cambuur expected to play a similar system to us it should give us plenty of opportunity to dominate the midfield and then take advantage in the wide areas with the pace and movement of our front 3, if however they set up in a natural 4-2-3-1 or a 3-4-3 formation that have been used in the past then we can adapt, 4-2-3-1 would give us more opportunity to dominate the midfield centrally and 3-5-2 would make it easier to be effective in the wide areas.
Defensively we will look to push high up the pitch, all of our defenders are lightning quick so are able to do this without fear of Cambuur being able to spring us on the counter attack. The reason for the high line is to condense the space while out of possession for the midfield and attack of Cambuur, denying them the space to get on the ball and turn at our defence will be crucial in winning this game, the idea is to keep their quality attacking players as far away from our goal as possible. The gap between the defence and the forwards should be very tight, we don't necessarily need to go chasing the ball from their CB's but when the wing backs and midfielders of Cambuur receive the ball, the nearest player (whether that be a midfielder, striker or defender) should be sprinting out to him to put him under pressure, when a player leaves his position, the next man must always be aware to cover the space he leaves, it's a very fluid system that requires a lot of hard work and concentration but we're good enough to do it, we want to force Cambuur to either have to pass backwards or force a mistake from the man in possession.
As spoken of previously in the tactics, we will look to be in possession a damn site more than we are out of it, we will move the ball with tempo and pace between the midfielders and forwards, however we must not be afraid to play the ball backwards in order to keep the ball if a forward pass is not on, the idea behind keeping possession for so long is to draw defenders out of position and exploit the gaps that they leave, it's very difficult to concentrate as a defender if you're under pressure for a long time, mistakes will happen.
Our 3 forwards Depay, Icardi and Alexis again are all comfortable receiving the ball to feet and linking play effectively, their movement and pace will be key in dragging defenders out of position and then exploiting that space in order to create chances, this front 3 will always create chances with the quality of our midfield supplying them, they just have to take them, and they have all proven capable of that in their careers.
Substitutions: if losing after 70 minutes, Yacine Brahimi for Marco Verratti, Brahimi to play as a genuine no10 off Icardi, Isco to play alongside Thiago in a 2 man midfield.
If winning after 70 minutes, Hector Herrera for Isco, Verratti stays in the holding role, Herrera will go alongside Thiago in the midfield and is a much more defensively sound player than Isco, he will chase and tackle all day, but retains the quality to keep the ball under pressure.
Captain: De Gea
Corners: Isco
Free Kicks: Thiago
Penalties: Depay
Comment deleted by Article Creator
Fishguard Sports AFC
Captain: Davy Klaassen
Corners: Andersen/Fischer
Goal Scoring Opportunity Free Kicks: Praet (Ödegaard)
Pens: Vietto
Formation: 3-4-3 (Sweeper System)
----------------------------Ryan
--------------------------Wimmer
---------Dendoncker------------------Friedrich
---------------------------de Sart
--------Tielemans--------------------Klaassen
---------------------------Praet
----Andersen------------------------------Fischer
---------------------------Vietto
Starting: Ryan; Dendoncker, Wimmer, Friedrich; de Sart, Tielemans, Klaassen (c), Praet (Ödegaard); Andersen, Vietto, Fischer
Subs: Onana, Diks, van der Beek, Ödegaard, Muric
We will line-up with two lightening quick wingers in Lucas Andersen and Viktor Fischer patrolling each flank with the intelligent and technically superb Dennis Praet behind the equally gifted Luciano Vietto.
My intentions are to pack the midfield with Tielemans, de Sart and Davy Klaassen protecting the back-three of Dendoncker, Friedrich and Kevin Wimmer.
We will operate with Wimmer as a sweeper. Pre-historic as it seems today, playing a sweeper will help to negate FC Pride’s threat in the attacking third. With the centre forward(s) picked up by Dendoncker and Friedrich – this will leave Wimmer to pick up stray balls, runs from deep and anything FC Pride throw at him.
We will be comfortable in having 3 defenders against our opponent’s centre forward(s), Dendoncker and Friedrich will comfortably pick up the FC Pride centre forward(s) and if they fail to control the FC Pride forward line, Wimmer is the contingency plan.
With Dendoncker and Friedrich picking up the centre forward(s) our defence is narrow. This would give the FC Pride wingers a lot of space to move forward. We will anticipate this by instructing our two central players – Tielemans and Klaassen to track these runs.
With Tielemans and Klaassen now tracking the runs of the wingers, it would leave de Sart outnumbered in midfield. Dennis Praet will always look to drop into midfield so that we will always have a spare man. This spare man again will be Kevin Wimmer – whose game intelligence and reading of the game will allow us to defend well.
When we are faced with doubling-up from our opposition (i.e. the opposition putting a winger and full back on to one of our defenders), we will use this to our advantage by switching the ball quickly and directly which will lead to our team finding an area of the pitch with no opposition player in. Such tactical nuances will be a distinct part of this Fishguard Sports team. This is an obvious and logical tactical ploy; expect at times for even talented players like Viktor Fischer to play a simple yet effective pass instead of attempting to pass his marker.
These tactics have proved that they can work by one of the greatest Ajax teams. The quick movement to an area where FC Pride may be a man-short will allow us to keep possession comfortably as well as creating opportunities. We will hope to have the opportunity to find space in the most predictable of positions on the pitch.
de Sart and Praet will always be available to receive the ball, and are capable of dissecting the FC Pride midfield with ease.
Our flexible, hard-working system will allow us to have a spare-man available when FC Pride have the ball, but significantly, it will gave flexibility and strength in keeping possession. With de Sart and Praet both floating around the half-way line and attacking third respectively, we can move the ball with ease.
FC Part may find it difficult to react to these players, as if they do move out of position to get closer to Praet and de Sart, the shape of the FC Pride team may fall apart. If an attempt is made to combat the constant space we hope Praet will be receiving. This will only give slick-heeled Andersen and Fischer more space to receive the ball.
My use of Tielemans and Klaassen will also be of interest too. As well as having defensive responsibilities, they will be instructed to run from deep to connect with our wingers and forwards. It will be their late runs that will often be the most dangerous to penetrate FC Pride. To do this, both Tielemans and Klaassen will show superb tactical understanding and discipline, not to mention supreme physical fitness. The combination of quick passing and runs from deep will be a constant menace for the FC Pride back-line. The implication of this will be that if FC Pride try to play a high-line to combat the threat of Praet, then FC Pride will have to drop deeper and deeper to negate the threat of our quick triangles through the midfield.
We will constantly be looking to stretch the FC Pride defence with Andersen and Fischer always looking to stay wide in the build-up of moves. It will therefore be unsurprising that either Tielemans or Klaassen will be the ones to break the deadlock in this game.
Vietto will not operate as purely an out and out centre forward – as he will also have a license to come a little bit deeper for the ball and run at defences, putting his pace and ability on the ball to full use. In that sort of scenario I will allow Andersen or Fischer to come a bit more central and make sure that Tielemans or Klaassen push out a bit wider to cover - meaning we will still keep a good shape in attack and also be well set out if FC Pride do try a counter. When Andersen or Fischer come a bit more central, this is where we will use our technical ability, acceleration and sheer pace to full effect. Andersen, Vietto, Praet and Fischer’s collective creative partnerships will give even the sturdiest of defences a very testing time through their combined technical abilities and pace.
Sub: 75th Minute – Praet off, Ödegaard on
---------------Wellenruether--------------
Corchia---J.Stones---Jagielka---Hector
-------Pogba-----Gomes-----Xhaka------
Santiago--------Benteke--------Berahino
Bazoer, Brandt, Coman, El Ghazi, Morata
(Santiago = Santiago Mina)
Gone off the boil a bit recently so a change in system to really go at the opposition...
Jagielka is the Captain, the leader at the back, he sits spare whilst Stones picks up the CF,, Jags will lead him through thegame, in fact the whole back 4 will go by Jags instructions. While Stones is picking up the CF, Jags, takes a step off him as he will be mindful of the CF if he gets away from Stones or indeed any other attcaker that comes through. Stones needs to be strong and mature in this role, he cannot be bullied by the CF, although he is a quick, powerful boy. AAlso by mature I mean he must make desicions quickly to where he has to be, that is where Jags helps him, The two will form a powerful partnership with no messing.
Corchia and Jonas Hector are two good attacking fullbacks, but I do stress, one goes at a time whilst the other stays back to keep three at the back. When they attack I want them up supporting our attack, getting beyond the wide forwards to take on there fullabacks and get to the bye line, so Santi and Saido can cut in and support Benteke. Whip in crosses for the big man to attack. When defending the lines, push the wingers out wide and stay on feet, dont dive in, this will force the player back or into a space they cant get out of.
With Wellenruether behind the back four this is a solid defence, with the keeper shouting when he comes out for the ball, he will punch clear what he cant catch and look to release the ball early.
Gone for a midfield 3 which has everything, they can tackle, attack, score...Gomes central is more defensiive so he sits in and takes care of there AM, he will hound him down and makes sure he doesnt have any time on the ball to dictate play, Pogba and Xhaka either side makes sure we ar very difficult to get passed as they will be onto the other midfielders very quickly. Once we have the ball then look to drive forward, passing and moving Pogba and Xhaka will be helped by an attacking fullback as they try to get the ball upfield, use triangles with the two wide men to get beyond the defenders and into support Benteke. All three are tireless runners and never give up a lost cause..
Santiago Mina and Berahino either side of Benteke, there for pace, I want to push them back by playing a high line which will stop there fullbacks attacking, do this and there is no real reason for them to track back, however I do want them to stop them if they do, by playing the high line it will make there defenders wary of any counter we have. with support from either fullback I want the opposite player to drive into the box so there is at least him, Benteke and Pogba/Hxaka in the box when crosses come in, one of Pogba/Xhaka sit on the edge. Benteke will win a good percentage of crosses coming in so if he doesnt go for goal, look to head/chest it down to on runners. He is a very powerful boy and will go passed defenders like they aint there. A good outlet for us. The attcking players I want swarming round him as we go for goal.
Captain - Jagileka
Penalties - Benteke
Free Kicks - Pogba
Corners - Wide men
Subs:-
Losing/Drawing
70 Mins - Xhaka, Mina OFF Brandt, El Ghazi on these two go RW, LW respectively and Betrahino goes up top 442
80 Mins - Morata for Corchia, 3 at the back, Morata up top 343
Winning
80 Mins - Mina OFF - Coman on sit back a bit, Berahino OFF, Bazoer on sit as a Left sided midfielder
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BATTERSEA IRONSIDES v Fiorentina
3-3-3-1
--------------Subasic--------------
---Gabriel---Otamendi---Balanta---
Vd.Wiel-----Kondogbia-----Peruzzi
-----Lucas----Firmino----Shaqiri----
---------------Mandzukic---------------
Subs: Fofana, Cartabia, Coman, Mitrovic, Sanson
Captain – Nicolas Otamendi
Free kicks – Roberto Firmino
Penalties – Mario Mandzukic
Corners – Roberto Firmino (R), Xherdan Shaqiri (L)
OVERVIEW
Change of plans this week as we’ve been hit hard by injuries to Gaya, Vidal and Silva. I’ve gone for a novel setup, a 3-3-3-1 that emulates Chile’s setups in past years. We have a very mobile back 3, rapid and energetic full backs to provide width, a physical beast of an anchorman and 3 quick and technical forward players supporting the striker.
Our game revolves around a high level of energy from start to finish today. I want us to keep our shape fairly high up the pitch, pressing in short sharp bursts when the opposition have the ball; the shortness of the bursts of pressing means my players won’t roam from their positions and we keep our defensive shape. I’m comfortable playing a high line as I don’t see Fiorentina’s forward players posing a real threat pace-wise, and Balanta and Gabriel are very quick to cover. I see Fiorentina playing a narrow 4-1-2-1-2 given their injuries, with Vazquez up top alongside Toni or Locadia.
Quick, incisive passing along the ground is the order of the day today. My 3 AMs will roam and interchange and press hard, winning the ball back and attacking space.
INDIVIDUAL
Goalkeeper – Danijel Subasic
Subasic comes in for his debut as he’s happier playing as a sweeper than Jefferson. Quick off his line to shut down any balls over the defence. Distribute quick to the flanks.
Centre backs – Gabriel Paulista, Nicolas Otamendi, Eder Balanta
Sitting high up the pitch, Otamendi is the libero and the other two are the aggressive quick men. One will step out to physically dominate Insigne if he plays at #10 as predicted (depending on which side of centre Insigne is on). I don’t think any of Tino’s forwards are quicker than Gabriel or Balanta. Insigne is quick but he’ll be playing behind a striker, so he’ll be starting deep enough that my centre halves have plenty of headstart chasing balls in behind. If Tino plays with wide men then (a) they're starting any offensive runs from deep giving my centre halves a headstart, and (b) they'll most likely be cutting inside in which case they'll run straight into the wider centre halves rather than into space.
Wing backs – Gregory Van der Wiel and Gino Peruzzi
Standard wing backs. Up-and-down, pace and energy. Drill low crosses.
Anchorman – Geoffrey Kondogbia
I’d imagine Insigne will play in behind the striker(s) – I think any direct threat he offers can be countered by the centre halves stepping out and smashing him. Kondogbia is tasked with sticking to Iniesta like Velcro covered in glue. I want Kondogbia to give the little wizard a horrible afternoon.
Wingers – Lucas Moura, Roberto Firmino and Xherdan Shaqiri
Here is where the game will be won. They all start out fairly central – like three #10s, almost – but as we move up the pitch Lucas and Shaqiri spread and attack outwards from their central position. This means that they’re not up directly against a full back, and the spare centre half (the other being occupied by Mandzukic) won’t want to step out and mark them because they’re both capable of beating Tino’s plodders with their bootlaces tied together. They drive into the gap between full back and centre half and keep the defenders running backwards. Importantly, when the ball is with Lucas and he pushes wide, Shaqiri moves central to provide a second man in the box for the cutback/drilled cross. Vice versa, when Shaqiri goes left, Lucas attacks the far post. Firmino pulls the strings from in front of the opposition defence, pulling deep to drag De Jong with him and open up more central space.
Striker – Mario Mandzukic
The perfect man to play a high-pressing attacking game. He must always occupy at least one centre half, pushing them back and dominating them.
SUBS
If winning: Fofana on for Peruzzi, Cartabia on for Shaqiri, Sanson on for Firmino – 80 mins
We drop into a 4-5-1:
-----------------Subasic-----------------
Vd.Wiel---Gabriel---Otamendi---Balanta
Lucas---Fofana---Kondogbia---Cartabia
------------------Sanson------------------
----------------Mandzukic----------------
We sit a little deeper and keep possession, waiting for counter opportunities.
If losing/drawing: Mitrovic on for Peruzzi, Coman on for Shaqiri – 80 mins
We go 4-1-3-2:
-----------------Subasic-----------------
Vd.Wiel---Gabriel---Otamendi---Balanta
--------------Kondogbia---------------
Lucas---------Firmino------Coman
-------Mandzukic----Mitrovic------
All out attack with Firmino/Coman switching between #10 and inside forward on the left.
PEACE.
Made a minor adjustment - please could you disregard/delete the first set
SHAKHTAR SENSELESS v Notts County
Injuries: Aurtenexte, J.Sanchez, Hateboer, Nathan, Eriksen
-------------------Frey
Aurier - De Vrij - Vermaelen - Criscito
----------------De Rossi
-----------Niguez - Y.Toure
-Munir---------------------------Perisic
-----------------Alcacer
Subs: Raeder, Bagnack, Gabi, Januzaj, Austin
--------------------
Tough but winnable game at home to Notts County, huge top of the table clash, we are unchanged from last week's win away to the Mandems, like last week this game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting all three points. They have some world class players in their side although we have some world class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front three with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a trio who can dictate the game in De Rossi, Saul Niguez and Yaya Toure. Munir at RW with Perisic at LW but both able to cut inside and get at the Notts County defence with Aurier/Criscito overlapping.
Frey - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Alcacer.
De Vrij/Vermaelen - De Vrij to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Vermaelen to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their second striker/AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Aurier/Criscito - Both of you to force the Notts wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Munir/Perisic as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Alcacer and link with De Rossi/Niguez/Yaya. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
De Rossi - Playing as the defensive midfielder, able to assist the defenders in dealing with the Notts attack but isn't just someone who can break up play, I want you to win possession then immediately look to retain possession with Saul and Yaya, also look for Munir, Perisic or Alcacer making runs.
Niguez/Yaya - Both of you playing the box to boxrole, both assist the CB's and De Rossi in dealing with the Notts attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Niguez to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Yaya to burst forward to join the front three on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others.
Munir/Perisic - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Notts 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 Alcacer with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Rossi/Niguez/Yaya, and capitalise on the space Alcacer's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.
Alcacer - you will be expected to occupy the Notts centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind.
------------------
Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Niguez off, Gabi on. Switch to 4-5-1, Gabi an extra DM as we shut up shop. Munir moves to RM with Perisic at LM, absorb pressure and hit on the break.
If drawing: Perisic and Alcacer off, Januzaj and Austin on. Januzaj to LW, Yaya moves forward to AM with De Rossi and Niguez holding, change to a 4-2-3-1, look to push for the winner without overcommitting.
If losing: De Vrij and Criscito off, Januzaj and Austin on. Switch to 3-1-4-2, Aurier - De Rossi - Vermaelen the back three, Niguez the deep playmaker, Munir - Yaya - Perisic - Januzaj behind a front two of Alcacer and Austin. Push for goals in this "must not lose" game.
Notts County vs Senseless
-------------------------------De Gea--------------------------------
Vrsaljko----------Gimenez--------Marquinhos--------Bernat
-----------------------------Verratti----------------------------------
------------------Thiago-------------Isco---------------------------
Alexis-----------------------------------------------------Depay
-----------------------------Martial------------------------------------
Subs: Tolisso, Romagnoli, Soriano, Brahimi, Juanmi
Game Plan: another big game up against Marky's boys today, so we're ready and looking forward to continuing our good form, we'll set up in our usual 4-3-3 system, we'll look to dominate possession from the off, despite being away from home, every man from 1-11 is very comfortable in possession. By keeping as much possession as possible we'll look to be patient and create space by moving the ball from side to side with a quick tempo, with Marky expected to play a similar system to us it should give us plenty of opportunity to dominate the midfield and then take advantage in the wide areas with the pace and movement of our front 3, if however they set up in a natural 4-2-3-1 or a 3-4-3 formation that have been used in the past then we can adapt, 4-2-3-1 would give us more opportunity to dominate the midfield centrally and 3-5-2 would make it easier to be effective in the wide areas.
Defensively we will look to push high up the pitch, all of our defenders are lightning quick so are able to do this without fear of Senseless being able to spring us on the counter attack. The reason for the high line is to condense the space while out of possession for the midfield and attack of Senseless, they seem to lack real pace throughout the side, they are a more physically dominant side with the likes of Yaya, De Rossi etc, denying them the space to get on the ball and turn at our defence will be crucial in winning this game, the idea is to keep their quality attacking players as far away from our goal as possible. The gap between the defence and the forwards should be very tight, we don't necessarily need to go chasing the ball from their CB's but when the wing backs and midfielders of Senseless receive the ball, the nearest player (whether that be a midfielder, striker or defender) should be sprinting out to him to put him under pressure, when a player leaves his position, the next man must always be aware to cover the space he leaves, it's a very fluid system that requires a lot of hard work and concentration but we're good enough to do it, we want to force Senseless to either have to pass backwards or force a mistake from the man in possession.
As spoken of previously in the tactics, we will look to be in possession a damn site more than we are out of it, we will move the ball with tempo and pace between the midfielders and forwards, however we must not be afraid to play the ball backwards in order to keep the ball if a forward pass is not on, the idea behind keeping possession for so long is to draw defenders out of position and exploit the gaps that they leave, it's very difficult to concentrate as a defender if you're under pressure for a long time, mistakes will happen.
Our 3 forwards Depay, Martial and Alexis again are all comfortable receiving the ball to feet and linking play effectively, their movement and pace will be key in dragging defenders out of position and then exploiting that space in order to create chances, this front 3 will always create chances with the quality of our midfield supplying them, they just have to take them, and they have all proven capable of that in their careers.
Substitutions: if losing after 70 minutes, Yacine Brahimi for Marco Verratti, Brahimi to play as a genuine no10 off Martial, Isco to play alongside Thiago in a 2 man midfield.
If winning after 75 minutes, Roberto Soriano for Isco, Verratti stays in the holding role, Soriano will go alongside Thiago in the midfield and is a much more defensively sound player than Isco, he will chase and tackle all day, but retains the quality to keep the ball under pressure.
Captain: De Gea
Corners: Isco
Free Kicks: Thiago
Penalties: Depay
Basingstoke tactics - away to FC Pride
------------------------Lloris-------------------
Carvajal----Zouma----Marquez---Grimaldo
------------------L.Silva----Rode------------------
-----------------------Teixeira-----------------
-Deulofeu----------Rossi---------Griezmann
Sub's: Fabianski, Bellerin, Vilhena, Quintero, Milik
Today's game plan is slightly different to usual, with a more defensive set up, due to the pace through Prides side and the injuries to our defence. Our plan is to basically defend deep and astutely whilst having a very pacey and decisive front 3, with Teixeira able to pick the passes and move us from defence to attack in a matter of seconds.
Captain - Marquez
Vice - Lloris
FK & C (R) - Griezmann
FK & C (L) - Teixeira
Pens - Rossi
Lloris - His usual gameplan today. While we're playing deep today they still have such pace, with Pirlo picking the passes, that he will need to be alert in coming off his line quickly. Otherwise the usual stuff, make yourself big & command your area. Look to distribute as quickly as possible to our wingers so we can break where possible.
FBs - both will be concentrating on their defensive duties firstly, playing against some of the most dangerous players in the league. I only want them going forward on rare occasions, mainly when they have the opportunity to use their pace to really hit Pride on the break. Otherwise the plan is to match the wingers - they have the pace to do so and will also have Rode and Marquez helping them out, making us very difficult to pass. I want them also to force the players onto their weaker foot at all time where possible.
Zouma - will be sticking close to the CF, who I assume is PEA. PEA could be a real nuisance but Zouma has the physicality to match him and I want him to really get stuck in, ruffle his feathers and make him think twice about wanting the ball. Its important he attacks the ball whenever possible as Marquez will not be doing that where possible.
Marquez - his experience could be vital today. He'll control our deep line, organising the defence and the two DMs, while he'll always be using his anticipation to put out fires. The young defenders around him compliment his game and he will have license to stay free and from this he can help double up on PEA, triple up on the wingers if FBs & Rode can't deal with it or get caught out, and also watching the midfield runners. As we've set up the rest of the team well, he should only have to do one of these at a time and this will suit him well!
Silva - big game for Silva but I think he's capable. He's the anchorman today - sitting in front of the defence an immovable object breaking up attacks and stopping anyone from running at the defence or taking free shots at Lloris.
Rode - he's the runner in midfield today. While Silva holds the middle Rode will be operating either side of him -mainly being used to double up on the wingers, meaning our FBs should never be exposed.
Teixeira - playing a little deeper than usual today as with Rode helping the FBs I don't want to leave Silva too exposed. Although that said with just Hazard through the middle for Pride usually, Tex should be able to step out and put pressure on Pirlo, stopping him from picking passes. When we have the ball he is vital - he will be looking to move the ball forward as quick as possible and has a lot to aim for ahead of him. By moving the ball quickly he should take the opposition ball winner out of the game and render him useless and allow our wingers to really get at the opposition.
Wingers - both very direct, fast, with great movement and an end product. Whilst we are playing the rest of the team more defensive, these two get free reign today and will look to expose the opposition on the break. They will either expose the opposition FBs when they go forward, or pin them back taking pressure off our defence which is a win win. They're free to swap wings and swarm in and around Rossi causing all sorts of havoc. Not much to tell them but to just have fun!
Rossi - want him constantly moving and dragging defenders around, giving the wingers space to move into and also knitting the play together from Tex & the wingers. When the ball gets in and around the box he comes alive and if he gets a sniff no doubt he'll take it.
Sub's - 60 mins, Vilhena for Tex
70 mins - Milik for Rossi
80 mins - Quintero for Deulofeu
All like for like to keep energy levels high.
Fiorentino - Vs some power-plant that Pink Floyd made famous
Injuries:
Holger Badstuber
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Ianis Hagi
Alex Meret
.....................Casillas......................
D.Alves.....Dede......Van Beek...Darmian
..................Inler.....De Jong..........
.......................Iniesta....................
Insigne............L. Toni............Piatti
Subs: Gordon, Vidic, Maggio, Vazquez, Besic
Home game against our biggest rivals...The losses of Badstuber and Ibra have hurt us pretty badly, that said Haaks lost some key players also
Home game and one we need to win to keep up with Ludy Galactico's.....enough waffling lets get down to business
All winning sides are built from the back and I feel we have a pretty decent defensive unit, Casillas is well experienced and will get the job done, organising the defence and being a safe pair of hands, there is nothing this man hasn't won and his desire to out-do Buffon keeps him going on and on.
Alves is a as a person but it's not a popularity contest, and his attacking nature is to be encouraged as he gets up and down the pitch stretching the power-plant as wide as is possible, defensively better than he's given credit for should be able to deal with their LW whoever Silva's replacement is....
Darmian - my Mr Flexible back over on the left today and like Alves is more wing-back than full back due to the nature of our midfield, will be up and down all game like the Italian Cafu, mirroring Alves but without being a , Defensively will have his work cut-out for him up against Lucas Moura but if he can keep him quiet it'll go a long way to turning the game in our favour....
Dede/Van Beek - Mandy is a real handful, all elbows and the likes, a Mourinho type player....our defenders are 6ft2 and 4 respectively so should be able to deal with his rough-house tactics....as they only have one-up top I want him double teamed...Dede forcing him with his back to goal allowing Van Beek to nip in and intercept either to pass into him or his lay-off into that over-rated Brasilian Firmino.....
The Midfield is as always where a game is won or lost, our trident is about as solid as they come.... Inler and De Jong will sit in the centre of park holding station allowing our full backs to freedom to attack at will and also allowing Iniesta to be the #10....Haak lost a lot of his brute strength with the sale of Yaya and Vidal's unfortunate injury.....our midfield trident move forwards and backwards together as a unit as I know Haak loves a heavy pressing game, by moving together we create spaces and simple passes as we play keep ball, gaining ourselves a breather when needed,
Individual roles:
De Jong is the enforcer, as noted they move together defence and attack, but he's always at the base, keeping an eye on Firmino as and when Battersea break.
Inler is the engine helping out with the defence but also comfortable enough in possession to be a viable option carrying the ball and moving it about tidily
Iniesta playmaker supreme and the master of the dribble, will be the heartbeat of the side as he links midfield and attack, he's the man who can bring the ball down under heavy pressure and always find a touch, when he's on the ball his low centre of gravity allows him to drop the shoulder and he's away, a "heads-up" player, will be given the creative freedom of a proper #10
The front three -
Haak has mentioned going with a back 3 a midfield 3 another midfield 3 and a lone striker...the front 4 we feel able to contain...his back 3 are all decent players, and without sounding whiny we're missing Ibra so it's a shuffle of the pack to exploit their strange formation.
Insigne - my right footed LW'er is playing on his "natural" right today as we look to keep the pitch as wide as possible...we get the ball into the final 3rd we are to attack at pace, this is why he's on this flank, no major need to cut-inside or turn round to cross the ball, will run the line and bang crosses in to Luca Toni...When Alves provides the over-lap then Lorenzo is free to attack the space inbetween LCB and CB
Piatti - is a speed demon and like Lorenzo and Iniesta a real talented dribbler, he's like a low-cost Messi, he'll mirror Insigne on the flank, running the line stretching the back 3 and hitting Toni on the run
Toni - May be 37 but the man's showing no signs of slowing down, 19 goals in 35 games this season, make him a great target man in this system, we have the midfield to create for him, meaning he doesn't need to drop deep, so he'll play as far forward as possible without straying off-side, and with two flying wingers plus our marauding full-backs he'll get plenty of aerial service for his 6ft4 frame to attack
subs
all subs 65 mins regardless of score
Vidic > SVB - Like for like at CB, but Vidic to use his wealth of experience to see the game out.
Maggio > Alves - Again like for like but fresh legs as we continue to press infront of an expectant home crowd
Vazquez > Toni - El Mudo (the mute) comes on, clever little player (not that little he's 6ft2) who will come a littler deeper connecting with the midfiled. helps with our ball retention
MANDEMS vs Tenby
--------------------------Guaita--------------------------
------------------Dante-------------Pepe------------------
Florenzi------------------Carrick-----------------Bertrand
-----------Illaramendi------------Schweinsteiger----------
--------------------------Fellaini------------------------
----------------Demba Ba-----------Suarez-----------------
BENCH
Lindegaard
Vlaar
Aranguiz
Silva
Bonaventura
TACTICS
An aggressive line up today as we feel we can really hurt their side. They will probably play the likes of Coquelin and Casemiro and try to defend against us so we will look to attack them, overloading them in the middle of the park. We can play a mixture of both passing play, using the ability of our midfield three (Carrick/Schwein and Illaramendi) and being direct using Fellaini and Ba's aerial ability. I want to get both styles in there, so sometimes be a little more patient to play in our attackers, sometimes play the 'anti-football' directness.
Their options upfront are Hernandez who will try and sneak in behind, and we must not allow there to be room in behind against him so we will use a slightly deeper than usual defensive line. If Pelle plays, Dante can equal him aerially and should man-mark him. Florenzi and Bertrand need to make sure they get back with Carrick just in front of the back four, not allowing an attacking midfielder the space.
PLAYER ROLES
Guaita - Don't let them score. Distribute the ball up to Fellaini/Ba from goalkicks, but that doesn't mean the whole gameplan is to be direct.
Florenzi/Bertrand - Run up and down the touchline all day long, bags of energy in you two young players. Get forward to provide width, crossing the ball, and get back to deal with their opposition wingers. Bertrand should be a little more cautious being likely up against Tello but Florenzi has more license to rampage down the wing.
Dante/Pepe - Our tactics depends on the striker(s) our opponents use. Chicharito will want to get in behind if he plays so use a deeper line than usual to counter that, ensuring that he can't get in behind and do any damage. Pelle should be marshalled by Dante, physically overpower him and beat him to any headers.
Carrick - Sit deep and protect the back four. I want you to distribute the ball with a range of passing, sometimes go for the simple ball to a wing back or Illara/Schwein, sometimes find a longer ball to Suarez, or Fellaini/Ba to head. Defensively you should sit deep and protect the back four, almost in fact a back five, don't get forward as we effectively are keeping three back with Florenzi/Bertrand attacking.
Illaramendi/Schweinsteiger - Both can pass the ball well and should look to move around, looking for a mixture of passes as Carrick. Schweinsteiger has license to get forward and into the box, move with the ball, shoot from range. Illaramendi should hold a position just outside the edge of the area where he can move the ball on, play it wide or aerially, or to Suarez in behind.
Fellaini - Roam around the final third when we have the ball looking for it in the air. Bully their defenders, I can see you winning headers all day long against their defense. When they have the ball I want you to stay high and press Xavi, not allowing him any time to do anything with it and not being allowed to dictate the game.
Demba Ba - Like Fellaini, try to power your way onto aerial balls but you also have the pace to cause problems. Really bully their defense who isn't the strongest and create space for Suarez. Knock the ball down, get on the scoresheet.
Suarez - Punish any moment where they try to push their defenders on by getting on the last man and in behind. Drift wide, get in behind to find the ball. Ba and Fellaini will look to keep the defenders occupied to give you more room to shine. Our star and you can make things happen.
SET PIECES
Left Corner - Schweinsteiger
Right Corner - Florenzi
Free Kicks - Schweinsteiger/Suarez
Penalties - Suarez
Fellaini, Ba, Pepe, Dante all key players in the box. I want us to score from a set piece today.
SUBSTITUTIONS
If winning - Aranguiz for one of the midfielders to add fresh energy.
If drawing - Bonaventura and Silva for Bertrand and Fellaini, more attacking down the left and creativity and pace in the middle to run at a tiring defense.
If losing - Silva, Bonaventura, Aranguiz for Carrick, Illaramendi, Bertrand. All out attack, get back into the game.
FC Pride:
------------------------Enyeama-------------------------
Coke------------Masch---------Koscielny--------Castro
-------------------Pirlo----------Blind--------------------
-------Robben--------T.Hazard----------Pedro---------
-------------------------Dybala--------------------------
Subs:
Baker, Höjbjerg, Halilovic, Aubameyang, Afobe
Injuries:
Bueno, Immobile, Luisao, Green, Kouyate
We go out with a point to prove this week, we're just not sure if we'll be playing one or two games.
Our game plan this week is slightly different due to our last few results. We want to attack our opponents, however we want to lure them onto us to create space in behind them that our attackers can break into. In order to do this we will play a few more passes in the middle of the park, rather than our normal high tempo approach. This should mean our opponents players will have to come towards the ball, rather than us bringing the ball to them. when they have been drawn out we'll then use quick, triangular passing to break on them int he pockets of space that have opened up in behind.
Enyeama takes his place in goal, he'll look to play the ball out through the defence, rather than kicking it long. He'll claim anything in his 6 yard box, but will allow the defenders to attack balls outside it.
Our back 4 consists of Coke, Mascherano, Koscielny and Castro. We have a very mobile back four, with a mixture of youth and experience. When one of our fullbacks pushes forward the other will stay back to make us tougher to break down on the counter. Our defence will look to play out through Pirlo.
Our two deeper lying midfielders will be Pirlo and Blind. Pirlo is the man who will set the tempo and rhythm of our game, he'll play the passes and and dictate the play. Blinds job will be to shield the back four and fill in for any players caught out of position at the back.
Robben, Thorgan and Pedro will be the 3 behind the striker. They'll look to play off of each other with short passes, looking to draw out our opponents creating space for the other to run into.
Dybala will lead the line, he's quick and skill full with an eye for goal. His movement will be key in opening up holes in our opponents defence. he will look to come for the ball, drawing his marker out of position, then peel away and use his speed to get in behind and receive through balls, that he can than turn into shots on goal.
Captain: Pirlo
Vice Captain: Mascherano
Penalties: Pirlo
Freekicks: Pirlo
Corners: Pedro/Robben
If losing after 75 mins:
PEA > Hazard
Move to 4-2-2-2, PEA up top with Dybala
If winning after 75 mins:
Play counter attacking football, keep compact
Höjbjerg > Hazard, play a little close to the midfield
PEA > Pedro, keep us a threat on the counter
TAIWAN 3-4-3
3-4-3. We will look to dominate possession from the back, pushing the opposition deep and forcing them to play direct. We expect them to play with one natural forward, Chiellini picks him up, Barzagli looks to ensure he picks up the second furthers forward player when they get up the pitch. Bonucci not man marking, and looking to sweep up after the other two.
We aim to attack the weaknesses in an existing football style that everyone in the league has become so complacent with.
Huge game, and at home we are going for all 3 points. We’re at home and are set up to continue our title push.
———————————— Navas
————— Barzagli — Bonucci — Chiellini
Coleman —— Alonso ——— Matic ———— Shaw
—————— Fabregas ——— Coutinho
—————————————Son
Subs: Laporte, Evra, Ward-Prowse, Bellarabi, Dost
Rigid in our positions when defending, fluid in our positions when attacking.
The formation also gives us the element of surprise. The opposition won’t be expecting this. Naturally an attacking formation, we set up to do just that. We want to force the opposition back, committing men forward and penning them in. Son plays as a false 9 up top, giving us more movement and proving too elusive for any opposition marking system. He likes to naturally drift wide and Coutinho likes to come inside from the sides. The interchangeability and flexibility of our attack will be key to unlocking the opposition defence.
By giving our front three real freedom when going forward this will make their movement impossible to pick up, allowing us to always have a man in space. Alonso comes in at cm, for his tactical brain and ability to pick passes and because he is another who knows how to play in front of a 3 man defence, his strong defensive play will be important.
We would usually keep 3 at the back anyway with one wing-back going forward, so this formation gives more freedom to the midfielders and attacking players to really get in positions to hurt the opposition. Navas plays with a three man defence in front of him, his leadership will be important to ensure they are kept right. However unlike Juve we have two wider attacking midfielders as well, these top-tier players give us an extra level of insurance due to the use of four wide men, not two. Furthermore Coleman, more of a natural attacker has the extra protection in the energy of Fabregas in front of him, plus Alonso on his side.
We want to defend high up the park, looking to win it back straight away after losing it. Let the opposition keeper and centre halves have the ball, everyone else we close down. One player closes down, the rest keep their shape. When the opposition take the ball into our half we get 10 men back. Rigid in our positions defensively.
Dominating the ball from the back with 3 defenders and pushing players forward takes the responsibility off Matic to be link our defence and attack. This should allow him to get in positions where we can get the best from him for stopping the opposition play.
With a back 3 it is vital we have defenders comfortable on the ball, in addition the mobility of the centre halves in a back 3 is crucial and so Bonucci gives us the perfect man to partner Barzagli and Chiellini.
Focus on the battle on the wings being in the opposition half, with their wide players on the defensive. Wing-backs will always stay touchline-wide to stretch the pitch out and provide an outlet.
The left-sided centre-half, Chiellni, will drift wide to create a passing lane and that encourages Shaw to go forward, creating gaps for Alonso and Matic to receive the ball into or get the ball down the wing.
With the opposition likely to play with only one natural forward, we should have two spare defenders at all times giving us more than adequate cover for their attacks. Our wings backs have the pace to get back as well. We expect the opposition to hit us on the counter with our attacking formation, ability on the ball is key in possession and mobility is key when the opposition are attacking and that is why we have opted for these 3 defenders.
With 3 central defenders providing real strength in the centre, we have two players in Alonso and Matic who can dominate the centre. Matic’s defensive play will be important and we want him to dominate defensively the middle of the park blocking balls and breaking up play, he also brings an added goal threat from set pieces due to his aerial ability. Alonso is used to playing in front of a back three and his experience here will be key.
The opposition don’t have great power in the centre, so our partnership gives us real quality that will allow us to dominate possession with options all around them. One of Alonso / Matic stays back in front of the defence when we attack.
One of Son, Fabregas or Coutinho will look to come inside occupying the space centrally between the opposition defence and midfield. The other two will look to bomb forward, with the two wing-backs providing width. When attacking we want constant movement from our front three, looking for runs in behind, looking for space to allow the diagonal ball, and drifting into space.
Set pieces will be important for us today. Fabregas’ delivery is one of the best in the world. And with the likes of Matic, Bonucci, Barzagli and Chiellini offering great ability in the air we also have the quick reactions and scoring instinct of Son.
Subs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Bellarabi for Coutinho. Straight replacement but Bellarabi will add pace and directness to our play, counter attacking ability and lungs to track back.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Dost for Coutinho. Fabregas goes behind the two strikers, Dost gives us sharpness through the middle against a tiring centre half pair. Also gives us more more of a threat from crosses and long balls as game stretches.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Bellarabi for Matic. Alonso dm, Bellarabi alongside the strikers and Fabregas cm with an attacking mentality.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Bellarabi for Matic. Fabregas back into centre midfield with Alonso becoming the defensive midfielder, Bellarabi moves over to right attacking midfield and Coutinho will operate on the left side. Get the ball down the wings linking up with Shaw.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Dost for Coutinho. Dost goes up front with Son and Bellarabi providing the pace behind the defenders.
Fishguard Sports AFC
Captain: Davy Klaassen
Corners: Muric/Fischer
Goal Scoring Opportunity Free Kicks: Praet (Ödegaard)
Pens: Vietto
Formation: 3-4-3 (Sweeper System)
----------------------------Ryan
---------------------------Engels
---------Dendoncker----------------Wimmer
---------------------------de Sart
--------Tielemans--------------------Klaassen
---------------------------Praet
----Muric-------------------------------------Fischer
---------------------------Vietto
Starting: Ryan; Dendoncker, Engels, Wimmer; de Sart, Tielemans, Klaassen (c), Praet (Ödegaard); Muric, Vietto, Fischer
Subs: Rajkovic, Diks, Friedrich, Ödegaard, Kawaya
We will line-up with two lightening quick wingers in Robert Muric and Viktor Fischer patrolling each flank with the intelligent and technically superb Dennis Praet behind the equally gifted Luciano Vietto.
My intentions are to pack the midfield with Tielemans, de Sart and Davy Klaassen protecting the back-three of Dendoncker, Wimmer and Björn Engels.
We will operate with Björn Engels as a sweeper. Pre-historic as it seems today, playing a sweeper will help to negate Gosport’s threat in the attacking third. With the centre forward(s) picked up by Dendoncker and Wimmer – this will leave Engels to pick up stray balls, runs from deep and anything Gosport throw at him.
We will be comfortable in having 3 defenders against our opponent’s centre forward(s), Dendoncker and Wimmer will comfortably pick up the Gosport centre forward(s) and if they fail to control the Gosport forward line, Engels is the contingency plan.
With Dendoncker and Wimmer picking up the centre forward(s) our defence is narrow. This would give the Gosport wingers a lot of space to move forward. We will anticipate this by instructing our two central players – Tielemans and Klaassen to track these runs.
With Tielemans and Klaassen now tracking the runs of the wingers, it would leave de Sart outnumbered in midfield. Dennis Praet will always look to drop into midfield so that we will always have a spare man. This spare man again will be Björn Engels – whose game intelligence and reading of the game will allow us to defend well.
When we are faced with doubling-up from our opposition (i.e. the opposition putting a winger and full back on to one of our defenders), we will use this to our advantage by switching the ball quickly and directly which will lead to our team finding an area of the pitch with no opposition player in. Such tactical nuances will be a distinct part of this Fishguard Sports team. This is an obvious and logical tactical ploy; expect at times for even talented players like Viktor Fischer to play a simple yet effective pass instead of attempting to pass his marker.
These tactics have proved that they can work by one of the greatest Ajax teams. The quick movement to an area where Gosport may be a man-short will allow us to keep possession comfortably as well as creating opportunities. We will hope to have the opportunity to find space in the most predictable of positions on the pitch.
de Sart and Praet will always be available to receive the ball, and are capable of dissecting the Gosport midfield with ease.
Our flexible, hard-working system will allow us to have a spare-man available when Gosport have the ball, but significantly, it will gave flexibility and strength in keeping possession. With de Sart and Praet both floating around the half-way line and attacking third respectively, we can move the ball with ease.
Gosport may find it difficult to react to these players, as if they do move out of position to get closer to Praet and de Sart, the shape of the Gosport team may fall apart. If an attempt is made to combat the constant space we hope Praet will be receiving. This will only give slick-heeled Muric and Fischer more space to receive the ball.
My use of Tielemans and Klaassen will also be of interest too. As well as having defensive responsibilities, they will be instructed to run from deep to connect with our wingers and forwards. It will be their late runs that will often be the most dangerous to penetrate Gosport. To do this, both Tielemans and Klaassen will show superb tactical understanding and discipline, not to mention supreme physical fitness. The combination of quick passing and runs from deep will be a constant menace for the Gosport back-line. The implication of this will be that if Gosport try to play a high-line to combat the threat of Praet, then Gosport will have to drop deeper and deeper to negate the threat of our quick triangles through the midfield.
We will constantly be looking to stretch the Gosport defence with Muric and Fischer always looking to stay wide in the build-up of moves. It will therefore be unsurprising that either Tielemans or Klaassen will be the ones to break the deadlock in this game.
Vietto will not operate as purely an out and out centre forward – as he will also have a license to come a little bit deeper for the ball and run at defences, putting his pace and ability on the ball to full use. In that sort of scenario I will allow Muric or Fischer to come a bit more central and make sure that Tielemans or Klaassen push out a bit wider to cover - meaning we will still keep a good shape in attack and also be well set out if Gosport do try a counter. When Muric or Fischer come a bit more central, this is where we will use our technical ability, acceleration and sheer pace to full effect. Muric, Vietto, Praet and Fischer’s collective creative partnerships will give even the sturdiest of defences a very testing time through their combined technical abilities and pace.
Sub: 75th Minute – Praet off, Ödegaard on
Here are my tic tacs for this week.
Starting XI
---------------------------Buffon----------------------------
Trippier------Mustafi----------Terry------------Kurzawa
--------------------------Geis------------------------------------
-----------------Pjanic------Strootman-----------------------
Gonzalez------------------Sturridge--------------------------Ox
Subs: Can, Assombalonga, Bijker, Kurzawa, Bony
Game plan: I want to take the game to the opposition whilst being wary of the threat they can pose to us.
We have fast talented wide men, a man up front who can score a variety of goals and a midfield that works harder than Leiva's insect repellent.
I will introduce you to the players and give you an insight in how I wish them to play.
Goalie: Buffon, possibly the best keeper to have ever graced Serie A...he needs no intro.
Defence:
RB: Trippier (RB), the best full back in the Championship last season who is now a regular in the premier league - he's good and defending and going forward and was whoscored.com's top right back in the league last season. His defence work is solid and reliable, rated at 7.55 out of 10 over the course of 40 games shows he is also a consistantly good performer. Another thing added to his game this season is the amount of assists he gets for the team with his hard work down the wing.
I want him to do exactly this. Trippier and Kurzawa will work in a way that will not leave us short at the back but will support our attack...that rhymes...Solid at the back, strong to attack... That's going to be sewn in to our shorts for this match . This will work by being disciplined, if the opposite full back is up there you stay keeping the 3 defenders and 1 DM to keep things tight in case of a counter.
I want both full backs to show there wingers outside them and offer the crossing option. It seems as if the opponents men like to come inside and do damage with the attackers in the middle so by showing them down the line they will have to do something magic or just aimlessly lob balls at Gigi's grateful hands.
LB:Just a word on Kurzawa as I have already outlined what I want him to do. He has shown his worth this season and was a key player in a season that saw them do more than many would have given them credit for. My main interest in Kurzawa is his positional ability and speed ability, he also seems to have a Joe Allen-esque ability to always find that pass when needed and he is an exceptionally good defender that can play on both sides of the back line.
Kurzawa and Trippier give great balance to the team and we long as we keep the understanding that we keep it tight at the back and strong in the attack I am really happy these two will be able to play their part.
CB's: I have selected a balanced CB pairing of youth + experience.
On the right side is German international and regular first team player Skhodran Mustafi...Mustafi was probably the best RCB in Italy last season and if it weren't for injury would have been part of the German world cup squad. He is young but incredibly talented.
Terry is playing very well despite his age and has made Chelsea the unit at the back this season that has seen them lose only once.
Mustafi's raw talent mixed with JT's intelligence will be a massive bonus to us.
Terry will tell his defence where to be and is the natural captain for our team.
DM: Geis is a player I have rated for a long time and now he is getting his chance in the Bundesliga...and he's taking full advantage of it, a member on IBWM's top 100 players under 25 he is blessed with a great ability to read the game and make vital interceptions. Not only can he win the ball back but perhaps more importantly he can recycle...exactly what I want him to do for us. Break down their play, restart the attack...it's easy ain't it?
CM: Pjanic and Strootman.
Pjanic is our star man...but we won't let him know that . He is full of running and can pop up and defend one minute and get a jinky run past 4-5 players the next whilst slipping the ball past the keeper. A real box to box player, and one with exceptional skills too!!
He is partnered with Strootman...A really hardworking pairing in the middle that is proven in the real world, they have a great knowledge and know how to compliment each other. When one goes the other will hold. Strootman will show this week why LVG is so keen on bringing him to united.
Attack:
Ox and Gonzalez out wide, work rate and pace...this is going to be key as much like liverpool last season I want to break quick with players round the back of the defenders... the more players the defenders have to think about the more likely they'll make mistakes...plus the make room for each other and the on rushing midfield.
ST:
Studge!
What a difference from the frustrated player at Chelsea. The boy has obvious talent and can score all sorts of goals, tap in's, long rangers, headers, skillfull flicks. The hope for England that we may soon have a very special player on our team. I put faith in Sturridge and this is what he needs to perform his best. Confidence is key and when this boy is confident he will be the key!
Subs:
If losing: 65mins: Geis off for Bony.
Strootman goes holding and we move a 4-4-2 Diamond with Pjanic at the tip.
-----------------------------Joel
Ivanovic---Alderweireld--Nastasic---Monreal
--------------------------Rabiot
----------------Wanyama---Wijnaldum
Mané----------------Strandberg---------Jero
Wallace
Weiser
Barkley
Simon
Sinclair
Against Fishguard we know that the key to victory is to find the gaps in between his formation, exploit the lack of experience in their team and play a high tempo, pressing game against their midfielders. We feel we have picked an applicable first 11 to accomplish all of these feats.
First we must acknowledge the set up of the entire back four. Each player is very capable at pressing the opposition and applying pressure to their attackers. Ivanovic and Monreal are both strong enough to nullify the attacking threat of the wingers, and will look to rob them of the ball before looking down the line to counter attack. Alderweireld has the duty of man marking the opposition's lone striker. Capable both in the air and on the ground, Alderweireld must not give him space or time to move on the ball, robbing it before looking for the pass forward. Nastasic will pull off slightly, monitoring any breaking runs from midfield and picking up and attacker who is unmarked at the time. He also has the job of sweeping for Alderweireld, looking to stop any danger the striker poses if he gets away from the Belgian. All four players are capable on the ball, but will sit back as a flat back four as we do not want to invIt's pressure from the counter attacks they may try and play. We feel this makes us sufficiently solid at the back, and reduces drastically the threat of the opposition attack force.
Rabiot plays a key role sat in front of the back four. It is his job to pick up the runs of the Fishguard attacking midfielders, preventing them from supporting the opposition striker, and as a result cutting off his service through the middle. He is strong enough to outmuscle anyone Fishguard throw at us, as well as being mobile enough not to get outwitted. If anyone does get past him then he will not be too afraid to get stuck in and put in last ditch tackles to alleviate the defence of further pressure.
Wanyama and Wijnaldum must work as a team to isolate the threat that the Foshguard midfielders pose. Both are strong, industrious players, capable of putting pressure on, and out muscling, much less experienced and younger players. When off the ball they will Harry and pressurise the central midfielders (if they hold possession) not giving them any time to build up play and attack our goal. They must block off runs towards our penalty area, doing whatever it takes to get in the way. When on the ball they have license to burst forward and support the attack. If they pick up the ball from range then they can take a shot, putting Ryan under as much pressure as we can as we see him as a weak point. They have high energy levels and as a result can keep up a high tempo game for 90 minutes.
Mané and Jero will pose direct threats from out wide. The Fishguard system leaves space open for us to exploit and attack. Both our wingers are technically ept and can get in crossing positions before putting crosses into our fox in the box in Strandberg. We have a clinical striker and two wingers that, through pace and guile, can present him with many, many chances. On top of this the wingers are equally capable at running at their opponent, creating more space for Strandberg in the penalty are. Like Wanyama and Wijnaldum they are licensed to take shots from range to put Ryan under high levels of pressure. Most of their game play will be about running into the penalty area and at the lonely sweeper that Welshy plays. One key tactic is for them to run at goal, pull Ryan out and knock the ball across goal for the other winger to race in and slot home.
Strandberg at times will act as a distraction, occupying the attentions of Welshy's two defensive centre backs. However he also has the strength to bomb into the penalty area and latch onto rebounds, thus making him a constant threat.
SUBSTITUTIONS
Whatever the score
Mané off, Barkley on 65 minutes
Offers us a different form of wide player, he will cut inside and carry on running at Welshy's sweeper, looking to create space for Jero. The wingers will continue to pose the majority of our threats. Barkley offers fresh legs against tiring defenders.
If losing
Jero off, Simon on 75 minutes
Fresh legs out wide
If winning
Ivanovic off, Weiser on 75 minutes
Fresh legs to deal with the pace of Fischer
Notts County vs Tenby
-------------------------------De Gea--------------------------------
Lichtsteiner----------Gimenez--------Marquinhos--------Bernat
-----------------------------Verratti----------------------------------
------------------Thiago-------------Isco---------------------------
Alexis-----------------------------------------------------Reus
-----------------------------Icardi------------------------------------
Subs: Tolisso, Romagnoli, Soriano, Correa, Martial
Game Plan: another big game up against Di's boys today, so we're ready and looking forward to continuing our good form, we'll set up in our usual 4-3-3 system, we'll look to dominate possession from the off, despite being away from home, every man from 1-11 is very comfortable in possession. By keeping as much possession as possible we'll look to be patient and create space by moving the ball from side to side with a quick tempo, with Didi expected to play a similar system to us it should give us plenty of opportunity to dominate the midfield and then take advantage in the wide areas with the pace and movement of our front 3, if however they set up in a natural 4-2-3-1 or a 3-4-3 formation that have been used in the past then we can adapt, 4-2-3-1 would give us more opportunity to dominate the midfield centrally and 3-5-2 would make it easier to be effective in the wide areas.
Defensively we will look to push high up the pitch, all of our defenders are lightning quick so are able to do this without fear of Tenby being able to spring us on the counter attack. The reason for the high line is to condense the space while out of possession for the midfield and attack of Tello, they have real pace outwide, but lack a bit of pace in the middle with Xavi, Allen and Jorginho etc, denying them the space to get on the ball and turn at our defence will be crucial in winning this game, the idea is to keep their quality attacking players as far away from our goal as possible. The gap between the defence and the forwards should be very tight, we don't necessarily need to go chasing the ball from their CB's but when the wing backs and midfielders of Tenby receive the ball, the nearest player (whether that be a midfielder, striker or defender) should be sprinting out to him to put him under pressure, when a player leaves his position, the next man must always be aware to cover the space he leaves, it's a very fluid system that requires a lot of hard work and concentration but we're good enough to do it, we want to force Tenby to either have to pass backwards or force a mistake from the man in possession.
As spoken of previously in the tactics, we will look to be in possession a damn site more than we are out of it, we will move the ball with tempo and pace between the midfielders and forwards, however we must not be afraid to play the ball backwards in order to keep the ball if a forward pass is not on, the idea behind keeping possession for so long is to draw defenders out of position and exploit the gaps that they leave, it's very difficult to concentrate as a defender if you're under pressure for a long time, mistakes will happen.
Our 3 forwards Reus, Icardi and Alexis again are all comfortable receiving the ball to feet and linking play effectively, their movement and pace will be key in dragging defenders out of position and then exploiting that space in order to create chances, this front 3 will always create chances with the quality of our midfield supplying them, they just have to take them, and they have all proven capable of that in their careers.
Substitutions: if losing after 70 minutes, Angel Correa for Marco Verratti, Correa to play as a genuine no10 off Icardi, Isco to play alongside Thiago in a 2 man midfield.
If winning after 75 minutes, Roberto Soriano for Isco, Verratti stays in the holding role, Soriano will go alongside Thiago in the midfield and is a much more defensively sound player than Isco, he will chase and tackle all day, but retains the quality to keep the ball under pressure.
Captain: De Gea
Corners: Isco
Free Kicks: Thiago
Penalties: Reus
---------------Wellenruether--------------
Corchia---J.Stones---Jagielka---Hector
-------Pogba-----Gomes-----Xhaka------
Santiago--------Benteke--------Berahino
Padoin, L.Silva, Brandt, Ritchie, Morata
(Santiago = Santiago Mina)
Jagielka is the Captain, the leader at the back, he sits spare whilst Stones picks up the CF,, Jags will lead him through thegame, in fact the whole back 4 will go by Jags instructions. While Stones is picking up the CF, Jags, takes a step off him as he will be mindful of the CF if he gets away from Stones or indeed any other attcaker that comes through. Stones needs to be strong and mature in this role, he cannot be bullied by the CF, although he is a quick, powerful boy. Also by mature I mean he must make desicions quickly to where he has to be, that is where Jags helps him, The two will form a powerful partnership with no messing.
Corchia and Jonas Hector are two good attacking fullbacks, but I do stress, one goes at a time whilst the other stays back to keep three at the back. When they attack I want them up supporting our attack, getting beyond the wide forwards to take on there fullabacks and get to the bye line, so Santi and Saido can cut in and support Benteke. Whip in crosses for the big man to attack. When defending the lines, push the wingers out wide and stay on feet, dont dive in, this will force the player back or into a space they cant get out of.
With Wellenruether behind the back four this is a solid defence, with the keeper shouting when he comes out for the ball, he will punch clear what he cant catch and look to release the ball early.
Gone for a midfield 3 which has everything, they can tackle, attack, score...Gomes central is more defensiive so he sits in and takes care of there AM, he will hound him down and makes sure he doesnt have any time on the ball to dictate play, Pogba and Xhaka either side makes sure we ar very difficult to get passed as they will be onto the other midfielders very quickly. Once we have the ball then look to drive forward, passing and moving Pogba and Xhaka will be helped by an attacking fullback as they try to get the ball upfield, use triangles with the two wide men to get beyond the defenders and into support Benteke. All three are tireless runners and never give up a lost cause..
Santiago Mina and Berahino either side of Benteke, there for pace, I want to push them back by playing a high line which will stop there fullbacks attacking, do this and there is no real reason for them to track back, however I do want them to stop them if they do, by playing the high line it will make there defenders wary of any counter we have. with support from either fullback I want the opposite player to drive into the box so there is at least him, Benteke and Pogba/Hxaka in the box when crosses come in, one of Pogba/Xhaka sit on the edge. Benteke will win a good percentage of crosses coming in so if he doesnt go for goal, look to head/chest it down to on runners. He is a very powerful boy and will go passed defenders like they aint there. A good outlet for us. The attcking players I want swarming round him as we go for goal.
Captain - Jagileka
Penalties - Benteke
Free Kicks - Pogba
Corners - Wide men
Subs
Losing -
70 Mins - Brandt > Berahino, M.Ritchie > Mina, Morata > Xhaka - 4-4-2 fresh wingers to hurt tiring fullbacks and Morata joins Benteke up front
Winning
70 Mins - Lucas Silva > Xhaka
80 Mins - Padoin > Mina, sits in a bit
85 Mins - Brandt > Berahino 4-5-1 a flat midfield 5
Drawing -
70 Mins - M.Ritchie > Mina, Brandt > Berahino new wingers new threat for fullbacks.
80 Mins - Morata > Xhaka 4-4-2
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Pencampwriaeth Cynghrair Dream Tactics
Page 19 of 25
20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24
posted on 29/4/15
--------------------Guaita----------------------
-------------Dante--Gonzalez--Vlaar-------------
Clyne-----------------------------------Bertrand
-----------------Schweinsteiger-----------------
-------Florenzi----Fellaini----Bonaventura------
-------------------Demba Ba---------------------
BENCH
Lindegaard
Illaramendi
Downing
Aranguiz
Zardes
Going for a new line up this week against Shakhtar, which will hopefully give us the edge. We expect them to play one upfront and a 4-5-1 of sorts with narrow wingers. We are looking to out-think them by playing a system where we expect to keep a clean sheet, and will attack them with physicality in our attack. Overall, our team has the physicality to cope with whatever they try to throw at us.
Dante and Vlaar are both the main centre backs in our system who will hold their normal solid line, but Gonzalez is the key player who has more pace and mobility. He needs to sweep in behind whichever side he is needed. When we get forward, our attacks should be focussed on going down the wings and getting the ball into the box for Ba/Fellaini to win headers which I fancy against their centre backs. Schweinsteiger can also get forward as there are three staying back. A plan B if necessary to hit them faster on the counter, mainly using the pace of Florenzi and Demba Ba.
PLAYER ROLES
Guaita - Save the shots, don't let them score.
Dante/Vlaar - You two are the physicality. Be strong in the tackle, and get tight to Alcacer (if he's on your side). Hold a strong three man defense which is fairly deep with no room to play in behind.
Gonzalez - You need to cover should Dante or Vlaar make a mistake. In particular Alcacer will want to run in behind but he must not be allowed to do that.
Clyne/Bertrand - Get up and down the touchline, you have license to get forward when we have the ball, when we don't, look to force the wingers wide as they will want to come inside.
Schweinsteiger/Fellaini - When we don't have the ball, pressurise their midfielders as they start coming into our half, let them have it if De Rossi/Gabi are going to sit deep with it. Fellaini is the man to silence Toure today. When we have the ball, Schweinsteiger should hover around the edge of the box and look to be the easy option with the pass, while Fellaini should force his way into the box.
Florenzi/Bonaventura - The wing backs will be providing the overlap but I need you two to look to stretch their defense too, creating more room for our central three. Occasionally mix it up by cutting inside, particularly find space between full back and centre back. When they have the ball, I want you two to get narrower than usual and stop their centre midfielders from creating (almost like a diamond - both have played CM IRL this season)
Demba Ba - Lead the line with your power and pace, bully their centre backs, get in their faces not giving them a moments peace. You have the pace to get them on the counter as well.
SET PIECES
Left Corner - Bonaventura
Right Corner - Florenzi
Free Kicks - Schweinstieger
Penalties - Schweinsteiger
SUBSTITUTIONS
If winning - Illaramendi and Aranguiz for Bonaventura and Florenzi to add energy to our midfield (diamond)
If drawing - Zardes and Aranguiz for Bertrand and Fellaini, add pace to our attack to win us the game against a tiring defense. (Bonaventura to LWB)
If losing - Zardes and Downing for Vlaar, Bertrand. All out attack, 4-4-2.
posted on 29/4/15
Fiorentino vs Ludy's Galactico's
Injuries:
Locadia
Mastour
Alves
de Jong
.....................Casillas........................
Maggio.......Dede.......Badstuber.......Pasqual
..................Inler........Besic..........................
Darmian..............Iniesta......................Insigne
........................Ibrahimovic............................
Subs: Gordon, Vidic,Van Beek, Vazquez, Toni
Away at Galactico's FC in a top of the table clash.....Now the sensible thing to do would be shore up the centre of the pitch and play for a draw, But that's not how we do things...we're going into this game like "gatto grande"
Injuries we're reasonably kind to us, so it's almost full strength, where as Taiwan have lost Matic and Cescy baby.....
In light of this I expect them to utilise Barry and or Alonso now they're both good players. but pace and mobility aren't in their skill set, so our 3 man midfield will set-up with neat passing triangles as we move the ball about, keeping it moving and running the clock down. All of our players have a certain strength of character and will act as a well drilled machine...sportsmanship is encouraged when it can give us an edge....winning ugly is better than losing pretty
Ludy-kins only ever goes one up top so a 3 man defence is a luxury we don't need today so it's just the two men in the middle
Casillas - All the usual, won't bore you with the finer points about he can catch crosses etc etc....we're going for a bit of smash and grab on the counter, so if Casillas has it and the counter is on then go wide or go long.....if they sit off then just short will do and we'll build from there.
Maggio/Pasqual - 2 experienced players, both have bags of pace and plenty of know-ho...they're both given licence to attack at will today as we impose ourself on Taiwan....Run the lines and make the over-lap...our wingers are coming inside...they'll drag Ludy's wingers back with them, thus alienating Tevez further....Defensively allow the cross, that's bread and butter for us
Dede/Badstuber - Both men standing at 6ft3 will fancy their chances aerially against Tevez's 5ft8 frame....Neither of these two will man mark him...both are sitting off, and holding the 18 yard box...if he drops deep let him, DO NOT move out of position following him....if he runs at you wipe him out ball AND man or man AND ball I'm easy on.
Inler/Besic - Inler comes in for his debut...His job is to man mark Tevez...Tevez floats about so Inler is the man to sit in front of him and intercept any balls coming into feet...aerially he has the height advantage also, but needs to be wary of Dede/Badstuber coming through him....Tevez will will be a tricky opponent but he is their danger-man and Inler will stick to it...if he turns run him into the defence were numbers alone will dictate we get the ball
Besic - Has the pace to be a real box-box midfielder, tidy in possesion will keep things ticking over nicely... defensively Coutinho is his man, a fine talent is the Brazilian but he can go missing but his long distance shooting can not be discounted.
Darmian/Inisgne - Both have a great work ethic and will get up and down all day.....Although I want them no deeper than half-way...that's high enough to keep the pressure on, but close enough to Taiwans goal to keep them dangerous on the counter.
Coleman is a good full back and Insigne will find it hard to get much joy, but as he'll be cutting in to use his sweet right foot and Pasqual running the line we look to over-run the Irish-man...Inisgne will attack the space between Coleman and the Centre-back...I presume it'll be Chiellini as I have a plan for Bonucci
Darmian - Will be up against either Alaba (not good news) or Evra (good news)
The plan stays the same whichever he faces, which is to mirror Inisgne cut inside and attack the gap between full back and centre-back, making the most of his clever footwork and great acceleration hitting the gaps before they're closed off.
Iniesta - The #10 - such fantastic close control, can take a ball under heavy pressure and still bring it down in one touch sitting just off the shoulder of Ibra....clever passes, fantastic vision and one of the best dribblers I ever did see....will run at Taiwans DM's and CB's at every opportunity, drawing men towards him and cheap free-kicks...has the skill to deliver the perfectly weighted pass even at full pelt, the perfect foil for Ibracadabra
Ibra - The man has it all....strength,technique, finishing and heading, will be the spingboard for our team today, whether it be bullying defenders getting onto passes or crosses...or winning aerial battles from long punts downfield....we defend from the top...he's to leave Chiellini be but will put Bonucci under immense pressure....I like Ludy's (Juve' defence...Bonucci has it all but Chiellini although has strong as an ox can be cumbersome...so as Ibra out muscles Bonucci I expect Darmian/Inisgne to really target Chiellini at pace to turn him and either create openings or win free-kicks or even penalties in dangerous areas
Subs
Winning drawing 70 mins - N/A just crack on
Losing 70 Mins
Vazuez > Darmian.....go two up top in a 4-4-2 diamond and power our way through the middle
.....................Casillas........................
Maggio.......Dede.......Badstuber.......Pasqual
...............................Inler.....................
...............Besic................Iniesta.................
...........................Insigne..............................
............Ibrahimovic.........Vazquez.................
posted on 29/4/15
FC Pride:
------------------------Enyeama-------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------
Coke------------Luisao----------Castro-----------Blind
-----------------------------------------------------------
Pedro-----------Kouyate---------Masch--------Robben
-----------------------------------------------------------
--------------------PEA--------Afobe--------------------
Subs:
Van Aanholt, Hojbjerg, T. Hazard, Halilovic, Bueno
Injuries:
Immobile
Dybala
Pirlo
Koscielny
Captain: Luisao
Vice Captain: Mascherano
Penalties: Robben
Freekicks: Robben
Corners: Pedro/Robben
The game plan has been changed this week. We try to be an attacking side, but this week we're keen to add more goals to our game. By adding an extra man up front, we hope to put away more of the chances we create.
Enyeama keeps his place in goal, we put last weeks goals against as an off day for the slot giver, perhaps he got out of bed on the wrong side, unless his bed is against a wall then he may have just fallen out of it. He'll command his area and will look to distribute the ball through the defence rather than kicking it out long.
From set pieces he'll stay within his 6 yard box, allowing his defence to deal with anything outside that area.
Coke and Blind will play as the fullbacks. Both have good stamina and know how on the ball. They'll be able to get up and down the flank, with cover from our midfield when they overlap. Only one of them will go forward at a time to keep us solid when under threat from counter attacks.
Luisao and Castro will play in the middle of the back 4. Both leaders in their own right, with vast experience and intelligence. Luisao will look to win the aerial duals and battles, whilst Castro will do more of the leg work.
In the middle of the park we have the box to box, beast that is Kouyate, with the passer and receiver Mascherano. As much as it pains me to say it, I'm looking for a Vieira/Gilberto partnership. Kouyate has the power and stamina to do the box to box role, whilst Mascherano will sit and protect the back 4.
In the right and left midfield roles we have Robben and Pedro, we want to keep them wide on the flanks to give us decent width in attacking areas. I've switched them so their stronger feet give them a better cross on the ball. We'll be looking for earlier crosses round the back of the defence, rather than aerial balls, which will suit the pace of our attackers.
Up front we have Aubameyang and Afobe, plenty of pace, power and goals between them. PEA will look to stretch our opposition, making runs and looking for balls in behind, whilst Afobe will look to come too the ball and give options in front our opponents.
We want to attack our opponents, with speed a precision. Our wide men have the ability to beat their men on the flanks and get balls to the forwards. Their presence will also keep our opponents pinned back. We want to move the ball about with players only having a few touches at a time, pass and move. We'll create triangles to work the ball forward.
Without the ball, we will create more solid banks of players, stifling our opponents passing rhythm and making it tough for them to break us down.
After 75 mins:
If losing -
Hojbjerg > Afobe
Switch to 4-3-3
Coke-Luisao-Castro-Blind
-------------Masch
------Kouyate-Hojbjerg
Robben-----PEA-------Pedro
Last 5 mins:
Bueno > PEA
T. Hazard > Pedro
If winning -
Van Aanholt > Pedro
Hojbjerg > Afobe
Switch to 5-3-2
Coke-Castro-Luisao-Blind-Aanholt
------Kouyate-Masch-Hojbjerg
-----------Robben----PEA
This will make us more solid and compact, but we still have a decent outlet upfront, especially on the counter.
posted on 29/4/15
Gosport vs Southend
------------------------Joel
Weisler---Alderweireld---Nastasic---Robertson
-----------------------Rabiot
---------------Wijnaldum--Wanyama
Mané--------------Strandberg------------Jero
Wallace
Targett
Bishop
Armstrong
Sinclair
Tippy is likely to play a side that will centre around neat football and possession retention. To deal with this we have set up with three very energetic and physical central midfielders, to make sure his midfield spend little time on the ball.
When the opposition is on the ball our back four forms a strong, compact unit that is hard to break down. With two energetic and pacey full backs we hope to close out any pressure from the wings, whilst Alderweireld will seek to mark the figurehead of the Southend attack out of the game, nullifying part of their attacking threat. Nastasic may aid this, but can also pose a threat himself as a sweeper centre back, helping prevent runs from midfield and closing opposition down out wide. Off the ball Robertson and Weisler will be allowed to push forward and support the wingers on the overlap, hoping to catch Tippy off guard and exploit his full backs. Whilst we are on the ball Nastasic and Alderweireld will stay back, with Alders sticking close to their striker, and Nastasic prepared to get across and aid in the event of a counter attack. Rabiot will also be staying back, to ensure we are not caught light at the back.
Rabiot himself has a key role in midfield. He must press the opposition attackers, looking to put them off their game, and helping the centre backs strangle the supply that the strikers may recieve. His energy means he will be able to keep up this game throughout, and his physical nature allows him an advantage over most defensive midfielders.
Wanyama and Wijnaldum both must help Rabiot occupy the opposition midfield when they are on the ball. They must be quick to close down and go into the challenge confident of taking the ball. Both have the engines to keep this game up for 90 minutes, pressing constantly whilst not on the ball. When on the ball they must attack quickly, using their momentum to carry them forward. Both have license to shoot from range, and try and test the opposition goalkeeper.
Jero and Mané are tricky wingers, who are capable of getting both assists and goals. They will cut inside and attack the opposition centre backs, drawing the full backs out of position and can then choose to lay the ball off for the overlapping full backs, pull it back to Strandberg or have a shot themselves. They have pace, and aren't afraid to utilise it, however there is more to their game than simply that.
Strandberg will play the fox in the box role, looking to pick up on loose balls and fashion chances out of them. He will look to pick up on rebounds from parried shots and find space within the penalty area for the cross or the pulled back ball.
posted on 29/4/15
Notts County vs Cambuur
-------------------------------De Gea--------------------------------
Lichtsteiner----------Gimenez--------Marquinhos--------Bernat
-----------------------------Verratti----------------------------------
------------------Thiago-------------Isco---------------------------
Alexis-----------------------------------------------------Depay
-----------------------------Icardi------------------------------------
Subs: Tolisso, Romagnoli, Herrera, Brahimi, Martial
Game Plan: another big game up against LC's boys today, so we're ready and looking forward to a return to league action after a great cup win, we'll set up in our usual 4-3-3 system, we'll look to dominate possession from the off, every man from 1-11 is very comfortable in possession. By keeping as much possession as possible we'll look to be patient and create space by moving the ball from side to side with a quick tempo, with Cambuur expected to play a similar system to us it should give us plenty of opportunity to dominate the midfield and then take advantage in the wide areas with the pace and movement of our front 3, if however they set up in a natural 4-2-3-1 or a 3-4-3 formation that have been used in the past then we can adapt, 4-2-3-1 would give us more opportunity to dominate the midfield centrally and 3-5-2 would make it easier to be effective in the wide areas.
Defensively we will look to push high up the pitch, all of our defenders are lightning quick so are able to do this without fear of Cambuur being able to spring us on the counter attack. The reason for the high line is to condense the space while out of possession for the midfield and attack of Cambuur, denying them the space to get on the ball and turn at our defence will be crucial in winning this game, the idea is to keep their quality attacking players as far away from our goal as possible. The gap between the defence and the forwards should be very tight, we don't necessarily need to go chasing the ball from their CB's but when the wing backs and midfielders of Cambuur receive the ball, the nearest player (whether that be a midfielder, striker or defender) should be sprinting out to him to put him under pressure, when a player leaves his position, the next man must always be aware to cover the space he leaves, it's a very fluid system that requires a lot of hard work and concentration but we're good enough to do it, we want to force Cambuur to either have to pass backwards or force a mistake from the man in possession.
As spoken of previously in the tactics, we will look to be in possession a damn site more than we are out of it, we will move the ball with tempo and pace between the midfielders and forwards, however we must not be afraid to play the ball backwards in order to keep the ball if a forward pass is not on, the idea behind keeping possession for so long is to draw defenders out of position and exploit the gaps that they leave, it's very difficult to concentrate as a defender if you're under pressure for a long time, mistakes will happen.
Our 3 forwards Depay, Icardi and Alexis again are all comfortable receiving the ball to feet and linking play effectively, their movement and pace will be key in dragging defenders out of position and then exploiting that space in order to create chances, this front 3 will always create chances with the quality of our midfield supplying them, they just have to take them, and they have all proven capable of that in their careers.
Substitutions: if losing after 70 minutes, Yacine Brahimi for Marco Verratti, Brahimi to play as a genuine no10 off Icardi, Isco to play alongside Thiago in a 2 man midfield.
If winning after 70 minutes, Hector Herrera for Isco, Verratti stays in the holding role, Herrera will go alongside Thiago in the midfield and is a much more defensively sound player than Isco, he will chase and tackle all day, but retains the quality to keep the ball under pressure.
Captain: De Gea
Corners: Isco
Free Kicks: Thiago
Penalties: Depay
posted on 29/4/15
Comment deleted by Article Creator
posted on 29/4/15
Fishguard Sports AFC
Captain: Davy Klaassen
Corners: Andersen/Fischer
Goal Scoring Opportunity Free Kicks: Praet (Ödegaard)
Pens: Vietto
Formation: 3-4-3 (Sweeper System)
----------------------------Ryan
--------------------------Wimmer
---------Dendoncker------------------Friedrich
---------------------------de Sart
--------Tielemans--------------------Klaassen
---------------------------Praet
----Andersen------------------------------Fischer
---------------------------Vietto
Starting: Ryan; Dendoncker, Wimmer, Friedrich; de Sart, Tielemans, Klaassen (c), Praet (Ödegaard); Andersen, Vietto, Fischer
Subs: Onana, Diks, van der Beek, Ödegaard, Muric
We will line-up with two lightening quick wingers in Lucas Andersen and Viktor Fischer patrolling each flank with the intelligent and technically superb Dennis Praet behind the equally gifted Luciano Vietto.
My intentions are to pack the midfield with Tielemans, de Sart and Davy Klaassen protecting the back-three of Dendoncker, Friedrich and Kevin Wimmer.
We will operate with Wimmer as a sweeper. Pre-historic as it seems today, playing a sweeper will help to negate FC Pride’s threat in the attacking third. With the centre forward(s) picked up by Dendoncker and Friedrich – this will leave Wimmer to pick up stray balls, runs from deep and anything FC Pride throw at him.
We will be comfortable in having 3 defenders against our opponent’s centre forward(s), Dendoncker and Friedrich will comfortably pick up the FC Pride centre forward(s) and if they fail to control the FC Pride forward line, Wimmer is the contingency plan.
With Dendoncker and Friedrich picking up the centre forward(s) our defence is narrow. This would give the FC Pride wingers a lot of space to move forward. We will anticipate this by instructing our two central players – Tielemans and Klaassen to track these runs.
With Tielemans and Klaassen now tracking the runs of the wingers, it would leave de Sart outnumbered in midfield. Dennis Praet will always look to drop into midfield so that we will always have a spare man. This spare man again will be Kevin Wimmer – whose game intelligence and reading of the game will allow us to defend well.
When we are faced with doubling-up from our opposition (i.e. the opposition putting a winger and full back on to one of our defenders), we will use this to our advantage by switching the ball quickly and directly which will lead to our team finding an area of the pitch with no opposition player in. Such tactical nuances will be a distinct part of this Fishguard Sports team. This is an obvious and logical tactical ploy; expect at times for even talented players like Viktor Fischer to play a simple yet effective pass instead of attempting to pass his marker.
These tactics have proved that they can work by one of the greatest Ajax teams. The quick movement to an area where FC Pride may be a man-short will allow us to keep possession comfortably as well as creating opportunities. We will hope to have the opportunity to find space in the most predictable of positions on the pitch.
de Sart and Praet will always be available to receive the ball, and are capable of dissecting the FC Pride midfield with ease.
Our flexible, hard-working system will allow us to have a spare-man available when FC Pride have the ball, but significantly, it will gave flexibility and strength in keeping possession. With de Sart and Praet both floating around the half-way line and attacking third respectively, we can move the ball with ease.
FC Part may find it difficult to react to these players, as if they do move out of position to get closer to Praet and de Sart, the shape of the FC Pride team may fall apart. If an attempt is made to combat the constant space we hope Praet will be receiving. This will only give slick-heeled Andersen and Fischer more space to receive the ball.
My use of Tielemans and Klaassen will also be of interest too. As well as having defensive responsibilities, they will be instructed to run from deep to connect with our wingers and forwards. It will be their late runs that will often be the most dangerous to penetrate FC Pride. To do this, both Tielemans and Klaassen will show superb tactical understanding and discipline, not to mention supreme physical fitness. The combination of quick passing and runs from deep will be a constant menace for the FC Pride back-line. The implication of this will be that if FC Pride try to play a high-line to combat the threat of Praet, then FC Pride will have to drop deeper and deeper to negate the threat of our quick triangles through the midfield.
We will constantly be looking to stretch the FC Pride defence with Andersen and Fischer always looking to stay wide in the build-up of moves. It will therefore be unsurprising that either Tielemans or Klaassen will be the ones to break the deadlock in this game.
Vietto will not operate as purely an out and out centre forward – as he will also have a license to come a little bit deeper for the ball and run at defences, putting his pace and ability on the ball to full use. In that sort of scenario I will allow Andersen or Fischer to come a bit more central and make sure that Tielemans or Klaassen push out a bit wider to cover - meaning we will still keep a good shape in attack and also be well set out if FC Pride do try a counter. When Andersen or Fischer come a bit more central, this is where we will use our technical ability, acceleration and sheer pace to full effect. Andersen, Vietto, Praet and Fischer’s collective creative partnerships will give even the sturdiest of defences a very testing time through their combined technical abilities and pace.
Sub: 75th Minute – Praet off, Ödegaard on
posted on 30/4/15
---------------Wellenruether--------------
Corchia---J.Stones---Jagielka---Hector
-------Pogba-----Gomes-----Xhaka------
Santiago--------Benteke--------Berahino
Bazoer, Brandt, Coman, El Ghazi, Morata
(Santiago = Santiago Mina)
Gone off the boil a bit recently so a change in system to really go at the opposition...
Jagielka is the Captain, the leader at the back, he sits spare whilst Stones picks up the CF,, Jags will lead him through thegame, in fact the whole back 4 will go by Jags instructions. While Stones is picking up the CF, Jags, takes a step off him as he will be mindful of the CF if he gets away from Stones or indeed any other attcaker that comes through. Stones needs to be strong and mature in this role, he cannot be bullied by the CF, although he is a quick, powerful boy. AAlso by mature I mean he must make desicions quickly to where he has to be, that is where Jags helps him, The two will form a powerful partnership with no messing.
Corchia and Jonas Hector are two good attacking fullbacks, but I do stress, one goes at a time whilst the other stays back to keep three at the back. When they attack I want them up supporting our attack, getting beyond the wide forwards to take on there fullabacks and get to the bye line, so Santi and Saido can cut in and support Benteke. Whip in crosses for the big man to attack. When defending the lines, push the wingers out wide and stay on feet, dont dive in, this will force the player back or into a space they cant get out of.
With Wellenruether behind the back four this is a solid defence, with the keeper shouting when he comes out for the ball, he will punch clear what he cant catch and look to release the ball early.
Gone for a midfield 3 which has everything, they can tackle, attack, score...Gomes central is more defensiive so he sits in and takes care of there AM, he will hound him down and makes sure he doesnt have any time on the ball to dictate play, Pogba and Xhaka either side makes sure we ar very difficult to get passed as they will be onto the other midfielders very quickly. Once we have the ball then look to drive forward, passing and moving Pogba and Xhaka will be helped by an attacking fullback as they try to get the ball upfield, use triangles with the two wide men to get beyond the defenders and into support Benteke. All three are tireless runners and never give up a lost cause..
Santiago Mina and Berahino either side of Benteke, there for pace, I want to push them back by playing a high line which will stop there fullbacks attacking, do this and there is no real reason for them to track back, however I do want them to stop them if they do, by playing the high line it will make there defenders wary of any counter we have. with support from either fullback I want the opposite player to drive into the box so there is at least him, Benteke and Pogba/Hxaka in the box when crosses come in, one of Pogba/Xhaka sit on the edge. Benteke will win a good percentage of crosses coming in so if he doesnt go for goal, look to head/chest it down to on runners. He is a very powerful boy and will go passed defenders like they aint there. A good outlet for us. The attcking players I want swarming round him as we go for goal.
Captain - Jagileka
Penalties - Benteke
Free Kicks - Pogba
Corners - Wide men
Subs:-
Losing/Drawing
70 Mins - Xhaka, Mina OFF Brandt, El Ghazi on these two go RW, LW respectively and Betrahino goes up top 442
80 Mins - Morata for Corchia, 3 at the back, Morata up top 343
Winning
80 Mins - Mina OFF - Coman on sit back a bit, Berahino OFF, Bazoer on sit as a Left sided midfielder
posted on 5/5/15
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
posted on 5/5/15
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
posted on 5/5/15
BATTERSEA IRONSIDES v Fiorentina
3-3-3-1
--------------Subasic--------------
---Gabriel---Otamendi---Balanta---
Vd.Wiel-----Kondogbia-----Peruzzi
-----Lucas----Firmino----Shaqiri----
---------------Mandzukic---------------
Subs: Fofana, Cartabia, Coman, Mitrovic, Sanson
Captain – Nicolas Otamendi
Free kicks – Roberto Firmino
Penalties – Mario Mandzukic
Corners – Roberto Firmino (R), Xherdan Shaqiri (L)
OVERVIEW
Change of plans this week as we’ve been hit hard by injuries to Gaya, Vidal and Silva. I’ve gone for a novel setup, a 3-3-3-1 that emulates Chile’s setups in past years. We have a very mobile back 3, rapid and energetic full backs to provide width, a physical beast of an anchorman and 3 quick and technical forward players supporting the striker.
Our game revolves around a high level of energy from start to finish today. I want us to keep our shape fairly high up the pitch, pressing in short sharp bursts when the opposition have the ball; the shortness of the bursts of pressing means my players won’t roam from their positions and we keep our defensive shape. I’m comfortable playing a high line as I don’t see Fiorentina’s forward players posing a real threat pace-wise, and Balanta and Gabriel are very quick to cover. I see Fiorentina playing a narrow 4-1-2-1-2 given their injuries, with Vazquez up top alongside Toni or Locadia.
Quick, incisive passing along the ground is the order of the day today. My 3 AMs will roam and interchange and press hard, winning the ball back and attacking space.
INDIVIDUAL
Goalkeeper – Danijel Subasic
Subasic comes in for his debut as he’s happier playing as a sweeper than Jefferson. Quick off his line to shut down any balls over the defence. Distribute quick to the flanks.
Centre backs – Gabriel Paulista, Nicolas Otamendi, Eder Balanta
Sitting high up the pitch, Otamendi is the libero and the other two are the aggressive quick men. One will step out to physically dominate Insigne if he plays at #10 as predicted (depending on which side of centre Insigne is on). I don’t think any of Tino’s forwards are quicker than Gabriel or Balanta. Insigne is quick but he’ll be playing behind a striker, so he’ll be starting deep enough that my centre halves have plenty of headstart chasing balls in behind. If Tino plays with wide men then (a) they're starting any offensive runs from deep giving my centre halves a headstart, and (b) they'll most likely be cutting inside in which case they'll run straight into the wider centre halves rather than into space.
Wing backs – Gregory Van der Wiel and Gino Peruzzi
Standard wing backs. Up-and-down, pace and energy. Drill low crosses.
Anchorman – Geoffrey Kondogbia
I’d imagine Insigne will play in behind the striker(s) – I think any direct threat he offers can be countered by the centre halves stepping out and smashing him. Kondogbia is tasked with sticking to Iniesta like Velcro covered in glue. I want Kondogbia to give the little wizard a horrible afternoon.
Wingers – Lucas Moura, Roberto Firmino and Xherdan Shaqiri
Here is where the game will be won. They all start out fairly central – like three #10s, almost – but as we move up the pitch Lucas and Shaqiri spread and attack outwards from their central position. This means that they’re not up directly against a full back, and the spare centre half (the other being occupied by Mandzukic) won’t want to step out and mark them because they’re both capable of beating Tino’s plodders with their bootlaces tied together. They drive into the gap between full back and centre half and keep the defenders running backwards. Importantly, when the ball is with Lucas and he pushes wide, Shaqiri moves central to provide a second man in the box for the cutback/drilled cross. Vice versa, when Shaqiri goes left, Lucas attacks the far post. Firmino pulls the strings from in front of the opposition defence, pulling deep to drag De Jong with him and open up more central space.
Striker – Mario Mandzukic
The perfect man to play a high-pressing attacking game. He must always occupy at least one centre half, pushing them back and dominating them.
SUBS
If winning: Fofana on for Peruzzi, Cartabia on for Shaqiri, Sanson on for Firmino – 80 mins
We drop into a 4-5-1:
-----------------Subasic-----------------
Vd.Wiel---Gabriel---Otamendi---Balanta
Lucas---Fofana---Kondogbia---Cartabia
------------------Sanson------------------
----------------Mandzukic----------------
We sit a little deeper and keep possession, waiting for counter opportunities.
If losing/drawing: Mitrovic on for Peruzzi, Coman on for Shaqiri – 80 mins
We go 4-1-3-2:
-----------------Subasic-----------------
Vd.Wiel---Gabriel---Otamendi---Balanta
--------------Kondogbia---------------
Lucas---------Firmino------Coman
-------Mandzukic----Mitrovic------
All out attack with Firmino/Coman switching between #10 and inside forward on the left.
PEACE.
posted on 5/5/15
Made a minor adjustment - please could you disregard/delete the first set
posted on 5/5/15
Cheers Admins
posted on 6/5/15
SHAKHTAR SENSELESS v Notts County
Injuries: Aurtenexte, J.Sanchez, Hateboer, Nathan, Eriksen
-------------------Frey
Aurier - De Vrij - Vermaelen - Criscito
----------------De Rossi
-----------Niguez - Y.Toure
-Munir---------------------------Perisic
-----------------Alcacer
Subs: Raeder, Bagnack, Gabi, Januzaj, Austin
--------------------
Tough but winnable game at home to Notts County, huge top of the table clash, we are unchanged from last week's win away to the Mandems, like last week this game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting all three points. They have some world class players in their side although we have some world class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front three with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a trio who can dictate the game in De Rossi, Saul Niguez and Yaya Toure. Munir at RW with Perisic at LW but both able to cut inside and get at the Notts County defence with Aurier/Criscito overlapping.
Frey - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Alcacer.
De Vrij/Vermaelen - De Vrij to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Vermaelen to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their second striker/AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Aurier/Criscito - Both of you to force the Notts wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Munir/Perisic as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Alcacer and link with De Rossi/Niguez/Yaya. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
De Rossi - Playing as the defensive midfielder, able to assist the defenders in dealing with the Notts attack but isn't just someone who can break up play, I want you to win possession then immediately look to retain possession with Saul and Yaya, also look for Munir, Perisic or Alcacer making runs.
Niguez/Yaya - Both of you playing the box to boxrole, both assist the CB's and De Rossi in dealing with the Notts attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Niguez to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Yaya to burst forward to join the front three on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others.
Munir/Perisic - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Notts 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 Alcacer with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Rossi/Niguez/Yaya, and capitalise on the space Alcacer's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.
Alcacer - you will be expected to occupy the Notts centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind.
------------------
Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Niguez off, Gabi on. Switch to 4-5-1, Gabi an extra DM as we shut up shop. Munir moves to RM with Perisic at LM, absorb pressure and hit on the break.
If drawing: Perisic and Alcacer off, Januzaj and Austin on. Januzaj to LW, Yaya moves forward to AM with De Rossi and Niguez holding, change to a 4-2-3-1, look to push for the winner without overcommitting.
If losing: De Vrij and Criscito off, Januzaj and Austin on. Switch to 3-1-4-2, Aurier - De Rossi - Vermaelen the back three, Niguez the deep playmaker, Munir - Yaya - Perisic - Januzaj behind a front two of Alcacer and Austin. Push for goals in this "must not lose" game.
posted on 6/5/15
Notts County vs Senseless
-------------------------------De Gea--------------------------------
Vrsaljko----------Gimenez--------Marquinhos--------Bernat
-----------------------------Verratti----------------------------------
------------------Thiago-------------Isco---------------------------
Alexis-----------------------------------------------------Depay
-----------------------------Martial------------------------------------
Subs: Tolisso, Romagnoli, Soriano, Brahimi, Juanmi
Game Plan: another big game up against Marky's boys today, so we're ready and looking forward to continuing our good form, we'll set up in our usual 4-3-3 system, we'll look to dominate possession from the off, despite being away from home, every man from 1-11 is very comfortable in possession. By keeping as much possession as possible we'll look to be patient and create space by moving the ball from side to side with a quick tempo, with Marky expected to play a similar system to us it should give us plenty of opportunity to dominate the midfield and then take advantage in the wide areas with the pace and movement of our front 3, if however they set up in a natural 4-2-3-1 or a 3-4-3 formation that have been used in the past then we can adapt, 4-2-3-1 would give us more opportunity to dominate the midfield centrally and 3-5-2 would make it easier to be effective in the wide areas.
Defensively we will look to push high up the pitch, all of our defenders are lightning quick so are able to do this without fear of Senseless being able to spring us on the counter attack. The reason for the high line is to condense the space while out of possession for the midfield and attack of Senseless, they seem to lack real pace throughout the side, they are a more physically dominant side with the likes of Yaya, De Rossi etc, denying them the space to get on the ball and turn at our defence will be crucial in winning this game, the idea is to keep their quality attacking players as far away from our goal as possible. The gap between the defence and the forwards should be very tight, we don't necessarily need to go chasing the ball from their CB's but when the wing backs and midfielders of Senseless receive the ball, the nearest player (whether that be a midfielder, striker or defender) should be sprinting out to him to put him under pressure, when a player leaves his position, the next man must always be aware to cover the space he leaves, it's a very fluid system that requires a lot of hard work and concentration but we're good enough to do it, we want to force Senseless to either have to pass backwards or force a mistake from the man in possession.
As spoken of previously in the tactics, we will look to be in possession a damn site more than we are out of it, we will move the ball with tempo and pace between the midfielders and forwards, however we must not be afraid to play the ball backwards in order to keep the ball if a forward pass is not on, the idea behind keeping possession for so long is to draw defenders out of position and exploit the gaps that they leave, it's very difficult to concentrate as a defender if you're under pressure for a long time, mistakes will happen.
Our 3 forwards Depay, Martial and Alexis again are all comfortable receiving the ball to feet and linking play effectively, their movement and pace will be key in dragging defenders out of position and then exploiting that space in order to create chances, this front 3 will always create chances with the quality of our midfield supplying them, they just have to take them, and they have all proven capable of that in their careers.
Substitutions: if losing after 70 minutes, Yacine Brahimi for Marco Verratti, Brahimi to play as a genuine no10 off Martial, Isco to play alongside Thiago in a 2 man midfield.
If winning after 75 minutes, Roberto Soriano for Isco, Verratti stays in the holding role, Soriano will go alongside Thiago in the midfield and is a much more defensively sound player than Isco, he will chase and tackle all day, but retains the quality to keep the ball under pressure.
Captain: De Gea
Corners: Isco
Free Kicks: Thiago
Penalties: Depay
posted on 6/5/15
Basingstoke tactics - away to FC Pride
------------------------Lloris-------------------
Carvajal----Zouma----Marquez---Grimaldo
------------------L.Silva----Rode------------------
-----------------------Teixeira-----------------
-Deulofeu----------Rossi---------Griezmann
Sub's: Fabianski, Bellerin, Vilhena, Quintero, Milik
Today's game plan is slightly different to usual, with a more defensive set up, due to the pace through Prides side and the injuries to our defence. Our plan is to basically defend deep and astutely whilst having a very pacey and decisive front 3, with Teixeira able to pick the passes and move us from defence to attack in a matter of seconds.
Captain - Marquez
Vice - Lloris
FK & C (R) - Griezmann
FK & C (L) - Teixeira
Pens - Rossi
Lloris - His usual gameplan today. While we're playing deep today they still have such pace, with Pirlo picking the passes, that he will need to be alert in coming off his line quickly. Otherwise the usual stuff, make yourself big & command your area. Look to distribute as quickly as possible to our wingers so we can break where possible.
FBs - both will be concentrating on their defensive duties firstly, playing against some of the most dangerous players in the league. I only want them going forward on rare occasions, mainly when they have the opportunity to use their pace to really hit Pride on the break. Otherwise the plan is to match the wingers - they have the pace to do so and will also have Rode and Marquez helping them out, making us very difficult to pass. I want them also to force the players onto their weaker foot at all time where possible.
Zouma - will be sticking close to the CF, who I assume is PEA. PEA could be a real nuisance but Zouma has the physicality to match him and I want him to really get stuck in, ruffle his feathers and make him think twice about wanting the ball. Its important he attacks the ball whenever possible as Marquez will not be doing that where possible.
Marquez - his experience could be vital today. He'll control our deep line, organising the defence and the two DMs, while he'll always be using his anticipation to put out fires. The young defenders around him compliment his game and he will have license to stay free and from this he can help double up on PEA, triple up on the wingers if FBs & Rode can't deal with it or get caught out, and also watching the midfield runners. As we've set up the rest of the team well, he should only have to do one of these at a time and this will suit him well!
Silva - big game for Silva but I think he's capable. He's the anchorman today - sitting in front of the defence an immovable object breaking up attacks and stopping anyone from running at the defence or taking free shots at Lloris.
Rode - he's the runner in midfield today. While Silva holds the middle Rode will be operating either side of him -mainly being used to double up on the wingers, meaning our FBs should never be exposed.
Teixeira - playing a little deeper than usual today as with Rode helping the FBs I don't want to leave Silva too exposed. Although that said with just Hazard through the middle for Pride usually, Tex should be able to step out and put pressure on Pirlo, stopping him from picking passes. When we have the ball he is vital - he will be looking to move the ball forward as quick as possible and has a lot to aim for ahead of him. By moving the ball quickly he should take the opposition ball winner out of the game and render him useless and allow our wingers to really get at the opposition.
Wingers - both very direct, fast, with great movement and an end product. Whilst we are playing the rest of the team more defensive, these two get free reign today and will look to expose the opposition on the break. They will either expose the opposition FBs when they go forward, or pin them back taking pressure off our defence which is a win win. They're free to swap wings and swarm in and around Rossi causing all sorts of havoc. Not much to tell them but to just have fun!
Rossi - want him constantly moving and dragging defenders around, giving the wingers space to move into and also knitting the play together from Tex & the wingers. When the ball gets in and around the box he comes alive and if he gets a sniff no doubt he'll take it.
Sub's - 60 mins, Vilhena for Tex
70 mins - Milik for Rossi
80 mins - Quintero for Deulofeu
All like for like to keep energy levels high.
posted on 6/5/15
Fiorentino - Vs some power-plant that Pink Floyd made famous
Injuries:
Holger Badstuber
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Ianis Hagi
Alex Meret
.....................Casillas......................
D.Alves.....Dede......Van Beek...Darmian
..................Inler.....De Jong..........
.......................Iniesta....................
Insigne............L. Toni............Piatti
Subs: Gordon, Vidic, Maggio, Vazquez, Besic
Home game against our biggest rivals...The losses of Badstuber and Ibra have hurt us pretty badly, that said Haaks lost some key players also
Home game and one we need to win to keep up with Ludy Galactico's.....enough waffling lets get down to business
All winning sides are built from the back and I feel we have a pretty decent defensive unit, Casillas is well experienced and will get the job done, organising the defence and being a safe pair of hands, there is nothing this man hasn't won and his desire to out-do Buffon keeps him going on and on.
Alves is a as a person but it's not a popularity contest, and his attacking nature is to be encouraged as he gets up and down the pitch stretching the power-plant as wide as is possible, defensively better than he's given credit for should be able to deal with their LW whoever Silva's replacement is....
Darmian - my Mr Flexible back over on the left today and like Alves is more wing-back than full back due to the nature of our midfield, will be up and down all game like the Italian Cafu, mirroring Alves but without being a , Defensively will have his work cut-out for him up against Lucas Moura but if he can keep him quiet it'll go a long way to turning the game in our favour....
Dede/Van Beek - Mandy is a real handful, all elbows and the likes, a Mourinho type player....our defenders are 6ft2 and 4 respectively so should be able to deal with his rough-house tactics....as they only have one-up top I want him double teamed...Dede forcing him with his back to goal allowing Van Beek to nip in and intercept either to pass into him or his lay-off into that over-rated Brasilian Firmino.....
The Midfield is as always where a game is won or lost, our trident is about as solid as they come.... Inler and De Jong will sit in the centre of park holding station allowing our full backs to freedom to attack at will and also allowing Iniesta to be the #10....Haak lost a lot of his brute strength with the sale of Yaya and Vidal's unfortunate injury.....our midfield trident move forwards and backwards together as a unit as I know Haak loves a heavy pressing game, by moving together we create spaces and simple passes as we play keep ball, gaining ourselves a breather when needed,
Individual roles:
De Jong is the enforcer, as noted they move together defence and attack, but he's always at the base, keeping an eye on Firmino as and when Battersea break.
Inler is the engine helping out with the defence but also comfortable enough in possession to be a viable option carrying the ball and moving it about tidily
Iniesta playmaker supreme and the master of the dribble, will be the heartbeat of the side as he links midfield and attack, he's the man who can bring the ball down under heavy pressure and always find a touch, when he's on the ball his low centre of gravity allows him to drop the shoulder and he's away, a "heads-up" player, will be given the creative freedom of a proper #10
The front three -
Haak has mentioned going with a back 3 a midfield 3 another midfield 3 and a lone striker...the front 4 we feel able to contain...his back 3 are all decent players, and without sounding whiny we're missing Ibra so it's a shuffle of the pack to exploit their strange formation.
Insigne - my right footed LW'er is playing on his "natural" right today as we look to keep the pitch as wide as possible...we get the ball into the final 3rd we are to attack at pace, this is why he's on this flank, no major need to cut-inside or turn round to cross the ball, will run the line and bang crosses in to Luca Toni...When Alves provides the over-lap then Lorenzo is free to attack the space inbetween LCB and CB
Piatti - is a speed demon and like Lorenzo and Iniesta a real talented dribbler, he's like a low-cost Messi, he'll mirror Insigne on the flank, running the line stretching the back 3 and hitting Toni on the run
Toni - May be 37 but the man's showing no signs of slowing down, 19 goals in 35 games this season, make him a great target man in this system, we have the midfield to create for him, meaning he doesn't need to drop deep, so he'll play as far forward as possible without straying off-side, and with two flying wingers plus our marauding full-backs he'll get plenty of aerial service for his 6ft4 frame to attack
subs
all subs 65 mins regardless of score
Vidic > SVB - Like for like at CB, but Vidic to use his wealth of experience to see the game out.
Maggio > Alves - Again like for like but fresh legs as we continue to press infront of an expectant home crowd
Vazquez > Toni - El Mudo (the mute) comes on, clever little player (not that little he's 6ft2) who will come a littler deeper connecting with the midfiled. helps with our ball retention
posted on 6/5/15
MANDEMS vs Tenby
--------------------------Guaita--------------------------
------------------Dante-------------Pepe------------------
Florenzi------------------Carrick-----------------Bertrand
-----------Illaramendi------------Schweinsteiger----------
--------------------------Fellaini------------------------
----------------Demba Ba-----------Suarez-----------------
BENCH
Lindegaard
Vlaar
Aranguiz
Silva
Bonaventura
TACTICS
An aggressive line up today as we feel we can really hurt their side. They will probably play the likes of Coquelin and Casemiro and try to defend against us so we will look to attack them, overloading them in the middle of the park. We can play a mixture of both passing play, using the ability of our midfield three (Carrick/Schwein and Illaramendi) and being direct using Fellaini and Ba's aerial ability. I want to get both styles in there, so sometimes be a little more patient to play in our attackers, sometimes play the 'anti-football' directness.
Their options upfront are Hernandez who will try and sneak in behind, and we must not allow there to be room in behind against him so we will use a slightly deeper than usual defensive line. If Pelle plays, Dante can equal him aerially and should man-mark him. Florenzi and Bertrand need to make sure they get back with Carrick just in front of the back four, not allowing an attacking midfielder the space.
PLAYER ROLES
Guaita - Don't let them score. Distribute the ball up to Fellaini/Ba from goalkicks, but that doesn't mean the whole gameplan is to be direct.
Florenzi/Bertrand - Run up and down the touchline all day long, bags of energy in you two young players. Get forward to provide width, crossing the ball, and get back to deal with their opposition wingers. Bertrand should be a little more cautious being likely up against Tello but Florenzi has more license to rampage down the wing.
Dante/Pepe - Our tactics depends on the striker(s) our opponents use. Chicharito will want to get in behind if he plays so use a deeper line than usual to counter that, ensuring that he can't get in behind and do any damage. Pelle should be marshalled by Dante, physically overpower him and beat him to any headers.
Carrick - Sit deep and protect the back four. I want you to distribute the ball with a range of passing, sometimes go for the simple ball to a wing back or Illara/Schwein, sometimes find a longer ball to Suarez, or Fellaini/Ba to head. Defensively you should sit deep and protect the back four, almost in fact a back five, don't get forward as we effectively are keeping three back with Florenzi/Bertrand attacking.
Illaramendi/Schweinsteiger - Both can pass the ball well and should look to move around, looking for a mixture of passes as Carrick. Schweinsteiger has license to get forward and into the box, move with the ball, shoot from range. Illaramendi should hold a position just outside the edge of the area where he can move the ball on, play it wide or aerially, or to Suarez in behind.
Fellaini - Roam around the final third when we have the ball looking for it in the air. Bully their defenders, I can see you winning headers all day long against their defense. When they have the ball I want you to stay high and press Xavi, not allowing him any time to do anything with it and not being allowed to dictate the game.
Demba Ba - Like Fellaini, try to power your way onto aerial balls but you also have the pace to cause problems. Really bully their defense who isn't the strongest and create space for Suarez. Knock the ball down, get on the scoresheet.
Suarez - Punish any moment where they try to push their defenders on by getting on the last man and in behind. Drift wide, get in behind to find the ball. Ba and Fellaini will look to keep the defenders occupied to give you more room to shine. Our star and you can make things happen.
SET PIECES
Left Corner - Schweinsteiger
Right Corner - Florenzi
Free Kicks - Schweinsteiger/Suarez
Penalties - Suarez
Fellaini, Ba, Pepe, Dante all key players in the box. I want us to score from a set piece today.
SUBSTITUTIONS
If winning - Aranguiz for one of the midfielders to add fresh energy.
If drawing - Bonaventura and Silva for Bertrand and Fellaini, more attacking down the left and creativity and pace in the middle to run at a tiring defense.
If losing - Silva, Bonaventura, Aranguiz for Carrick, Illaramendi, Bertrand. All out attack, get back into the game.
posted on 6/5/15
FC Pride:
------------------------Enyeama-------------------------
Coke------------Masch---------Koscielny--------Castro
-------------------Pirlo----------Blind--------------------
-------Robben--------T.Hazard----------Pedro---------
-------------------------Dybala--------------------------
Subs:
Baker, Höjbjerg, Halilovic, Aubameyang, Afobe
Injuries:
Bueno, Immobile, Luisao, Green, Kouyate
We go out with a point to prove this week, we're just not sure if we'll be playing one or two games.
Our game plan this week is slightly different due to our last few results. We want to attack our opponents, however we want to lure them onto us to create space in behind them that our attackers can break into. In order to do this we will play a few more passes in the middle of the park, rather than our normal high tempo approach. This should mean our opponents players will have to come towards the ball, rather than us bringing the ball to them. when they have been drawn out we'll then use quick, triangular passing to break on them int he pockets of space that have opened up in behind.
Enyeama takes his place in goal, he'll look to play the ball out through the defence, rather than kicking it long. He'll claim anything in his 6 yard box, but will allow the defenders to attack balls outside it.
Our back 4 consists of Coke, Mascherano, Koscielny and Castro. We have a very mobile back four, with a mixture of youth and experience. When one of our fullbacks pushes forward the other will stay back to make us tougher to break down on the counter. Our defence will look to play out through Pirlo.
Our two deeper lying midfielders will be Pirlo and Blind. Pirlo is the man who will set the tempo and rhythm of our game, he'll play the passes and and dictate the play. Blinds job will be to shield the back four and fill in for any players caught out of position at the back.
Robben, Thorgan and Pedro will be the 3 behind the striker. They'll look to play off of each other with short passes, looking to draw out our opponents creating space for the other to run into.
Dybala will lead the line, he's quick and skill full with an eye for goal. His movement will be key in opening up holes in our opponents defence. he will look to come for the ball, drawing his marker out of position, then peel away and use his speed to get in behind and receive through balls, that he can than turn into shots on goal.
Captain: Pirlo
Vice Captain: Mascherano
Penalties: Pirlo
Freekicks: Pirlo
Corners: Pedro/Robben
If losing after 75 mins:
PEA > Hazard
Move to 4-2-2-2, PEA up top with Dybala
If winning after 75 mins:
Play counter attacking football, keep compact
Höjbjerg > Hazard, play a little close to the midfield
PEA > Pedro, keep us a threat on the counter
posted on 6/5/15
TAIWAN 3-4-3
3-4-3. We will look to dominate possession from the back, pushing the opposition deep and forcing them to play direct. We expect them to play with one natural forward, Chiellini picks him up, Barzagli looks to ensure he picks up the second furthers forward player when they get up the pitch. Bonucci not man marking, and looking to sweep up after the other two.
We aim to attack the weaknesses in an existing football style that everyone in the league has become so complacent with.
Huge game, and at home we are going for all 3 points. We’re at home and are set up to continue our title push.
———————————— Navas
————— Barzagli — Bonucci — Chiellini
Coleman —— Alonso ——— Matic ———— Shaw
—————— Fabregas ——— Coutinho
—————————————Son
Subs: Laporte, Evra, Ward-Prowse, Bellarabi, Dost
Rigid in our positions when defending, fluid in our positions when attacking.
The formation also gives us the element of surprise. The opposition won’t be expecting this. Naturally an attacking formation, we set up to do just that. We want to force the opposition back, committing men forward and penning them in. Son plays as a false 9 up top, giving us more movement and proving too elusive for any opposition marking system. He likes to naturally drift wide and Coutinho likes to come inside from the sides. The interchangeability and flexibility of our attack will be key to unlocking the opposition defence.
By giving our front three real freedom when going forward this will make their movement impossible to pick up, allowing us to always have a man in space. Alonso comes in at cm, for his tactical brain and ability to pick passes and because he is another who knows how to play in front of a 3 man defence, his strong defensive play will be important.
We would usually keep 3 at the back anyway with one wing-back going forward, so this formation gives more freedom to the midfielders and attacking players to really get in positions to hurt the opposition. Navas plays with a three man defence in front of him, his leadership will be important to ensure they are kept right. However unlike Juve we have two wider attacking midfielders as well, these top-tier players give us an extra level of insurance due to the use of four wide men, not two. Furthermore Coleman, more of a natural attacker has the extra protection in the energy of Fabregas in front of him, plus Alonso on his side.
We want to defend high up the park, looking to win it back straight away after losing it. Let the opposition keeper and centre halves have the ball, everyone else we close down. One player closes down, the rest keep their shape. When the opposition take the ball into our half we get 10 men back. Rigid in our positions defensively.
Dominating the ball from the back with 3 defenders and pushing players forward takes the responsibility off Matic to be link our defence and attack. This should allow him to get in positions where we can get the best from him for stopping the opposition play.
With a back 3 it is vital we have defenders comfortable on the ball, in addition the mobility of the centre halves in a back 3 is crucial and so Bonucci gives us the perfect man to partner Barzagli and Chiellini.
Focus on the battle on the wings being in the opposition half, with their wide players on the defensive. Wing-backs will always stay touchline-wide to stretch the pitch out and provide an outlet.
The left-sided centre-half, Chiellni, will drift wide to create a passing lane and that encourages Shaw to go forward, creating gaps for Alonso and Matic to receive the ball into or get the ball down the wing.
With the opposition likely to play with only one natural forward, we should have two spare defenders at all times giving us more than adequate cover for their attacks. Our wings backs have the pace to get back as well. We expect the opposition to hit us on the counter with our attacking formation, ability on the ball is key in possession and mobility is key when the opposition are attacking and that is why we have opted for these 3 defenders.
With 3 central defenders providing real strength in the centre, we have two players in Alonso and Matic who can dominate the centre. Matic’s defensive play will be important and we want him to dominate defensively the middle of the park blocking balls and breaking up play, he also brings an added goal threat from set pieces due to his aerial ability. Alonso is used to playing in front of a back three and his experience here will be key.
The opposition don’t have great power in the centre, so our partnership gives us real quality that will allow us to dominate possession with options all around them. One of Alonso / Matic stays back in front of the defence when we attack.
One of Son, Fabregas or Coutinho will look to come inside occupying the space centrally between the opposition defence and midfield. The other two will look to bomb forward, with the two wing-backs providing width. When attacking we want constant movement from our front three, looking for runs in behind, looking for space to allow the diagonal ball, and drifting into space.
Set pieces will be important for us today. Fabregas’ delivery is one of the best in the world. And with the likes of Matic, Bonucci, Barzagli and Chiellini offering great ability in the air we also have the quick reactions and scoring instinct of Son.
Subs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Bellarabi for Coutinho. Straight replacement but Bellarabi will add pace and directness to our play, counter attacking ability and lungs to track back.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Dost for Coutinho. Fabregas goes behind the two strikers, Dost gives us sharpness through the middle against a tiring centre half pair. Also gives us more more of a threat from crosses and long balls as game stretches.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Bellarabi for Matic. Alonso dm, Bellarabi alongside the strikers and Fabregas cm with an attacking mentality.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Bellarabi for Matic. Fabregas back into centre midfield with Alonso becoming the defensive midfielder, Bellarabi moves over to right attacking midfield and Coutinho will operate on the left side. Get the ball down the wings linking up with Shaw.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Dost for Coutinho. Dost goes up front with Son and Bellarabi providing the pace behind the defenders.
posted on 6/5/15
Fishguard Sports AFC
Captain: Davy Klaassen
Corners: Muric/Fischer
Goal Scoring Opportunity Free Kicks: Praet (Ödegaard)
Pens: Vietto
Formation: 3-4-3 (Sweeper System)
----------------------------Ryan
---------------------------Engels
---------Dendoncker----------------Wimmer
---------------------------de Sart
--------Tielemans--------------------Klaassen
---------------------------Praet
----Muric-------------------------------------Fischer
---------------------------Vietto
Starting: Ryan; Dendoncker, Engels, Wimmer; de Sart, Tielemans, Klaassen (c), Praet (Ödegaard); Muric, Vietto, Fischer
Subs: Rajkovic, Diks, Friedrich, Ödegaard, Kawaya
We will line-up with two lightening quick wingers in Robert Muric and Viktor Fischer patrolling each flank with the intelligent and technically superb Dennis Praet behind the equally gifted Luciano Vietto.
My intentions are to pack the midfield with Tielemans, de Sart and Davy Klaassen protecting the back-three of Dendoncker, Wimmer and Björn Engels.
We will operate with Björn Engels as a sweeper. Pre-historic as it seems today, playing a sweeper will help to negate Gosport’s threat in the attacking third. With the centre forward(s) picked up by Dendoncker and Wimmer – this will leave Engels to pick up stray balls, runs from deep and anything Gosport throw at him.
We will be comfortable in having 3 defenders against our opponent’s centre forward(s), Dendoncker and Wimmer will comfortably pick up the Gosport centre forward(s) and if they fail to control the Gosport forward line, Engels is the contingency plan.
With Dendoncker and Wimmer picking up the centre forward(s) our defence is narrow. This would give the Gosport wingers a lot of space to move forward. We will anticipate this by instructing our two central players – Tielemans and Klaassen to track these runs.
With Tielemans and Klaassen now tracking the runs of the wingers, it would leave de Sart outnumbered in midfield. Dennis Praet will always look to drop into midfield so that we will always have a spare man. This spare man again will be Björn Engels – whose game intelligence and reading of the game will allow us to defend well.
When we are faced with doubling-up from our opposition (i.e. the opposition putting a winger and full back on to one of our defenders), we will use this to our advantage by switching the ball quickly and directly which will lead to our team finding an area of the pitch with no opposition player in. Such tactical nuances will be a distinct part of this Fishguard Sports team. This is an obvious and logical tactical ploy; expect at times for even talented players like Viktor Fischer to play a simple yet effective pass instead of attempting to pass his marker.
These tactics have proved that they can work by one of the greatest Ajax teams. The quick movement to an area where Gosport may be a man-short will allow us to keep possession comfortably as well as creating opportunities. We will hope to have the opportunity to find space in the most predictable of positions on the pitch.
de Sart and Praet will always be available to receive the ball, and are capable of dissecting the Gosport midfield with ease.
Our flexible, hard-working system will allow us to have a spare-man available when Gosport have the ball, but significantly, it will gave flexibility and strength in keeping possession. With de Sart and Praet both floating around the half-way line and attacking third respectively, we can move the ball with ease.
Gosport may find it difficult to react to these players, as if they do move out of position to get closer to Praet and de Sart, the shape of the Gosport team may fall apart. If an attempt is made to combat the constant space we hope Praet will be receiving. This will only give slick-heeled Muric and Fischer more space to receive the ball.
My use of Tielemans and Klaassen will also be of interest too. As well as having defensive responsibilities, they will be instructed to run from deep to connect with our wingers and forwards. It will be their late runs that will often be the most dangerous to penetrate Gosport. To do this, both Tielemans and Klaassen will show superb tactical understanding and discipline, not to mention supreme physical fitness. The combination of quick passing and runs from deep will be a constant menace for the Gosport back-line. The implication of this will be that if Gosport try to play a high-line to combat the threat of Praet, then Gosport will have to drop deeper and deeper to negate the threat of our quick triangles through the midfield.
We will constantly be looking to stretch the Gosport defence with Muric and Fischer always looking to stay wide in the build-up of moves. It will therefore be unsurprising that either Tielemans or Klaassen will be the ones to break the deadlock in this game.
Vietto will not operate as purely an out and out centre forward – as he will also have a license to come a little bit deeper for the ball and run at defences, putting his pace and ability on the ball to full use. In that sort of scenario I will allow Muric or Fischer to come a bit more central and make sure that Tielemans or Klaassen push out a bit wider to cover - meaning we will still keep a good shape in attack and also be well set out if Gosport do try a counter. When Muric or Fischer come a bit more central, this is where we will use our technical ability, acceleration and sheer pace to full effect. Muric, Vietto, Praet and Fischer’s collective creative partnerships will give even the sturdiest of defences a very testing time through their combined technical abilities and pace.
Sub: 75th Minute – Praet off, Ödegaard on
posted on 6/5/15
Here are my tic tacs for this week.
Starting XI
---------------------------Buffon----------------------------
Trippier------Mustafi----------Terry------------Kurzawa
--------------------------Geis------------------------------------
-----------------Pjanic------Strootman-----------------------
Gonzalez------------------Sturridge--------------------------Ox
Subs: Can, Assombalonga, Bijker, Kurzawa, Bony
Game plan: I want to take the game to the opposition whilst being wary of the threat they can pose to us.
We have fast talented wide men, a man up front who can score a variety of goals and a midfield that works harder than Leiva's insect repellent.
I will introduce you to the players and give you an insight in how I wish them to play.
Goalie: Buffon, possibly the best keeper to have ever graced Serie A...he needs no intro.
Defence:
RB: Trippier (RB), the best full back in the Championship last season who is now a regular in the premier league - he's good and defending and going forward and was whoscored.com's top right back in the league last season. His defence work is solid and reliable, rated at 7.55 out of 10 over the course of 40 games shows he is also a consistantly good performer. Another thing added to his game this season is the amount of assists he gets for the team with his hard work down the wing.
I want him to do exactly this. Trippier and Kurzawa will work in a way that will not leave us short at the back but will support our attack...that rhymes...Solid at the back, strong to attack... That's going to be sewn in to our shorts for this match . This will work by being disciplined, if the opposite full back is up there you stay keeping the 3 defenders and 1 DM to keep things tight in case of a counter.
I want both full backs to show there wingers outside them and offer the crossing option. It seems as if the opponents men like to come inside and do damage with the attackers in the middle so by showing them down the line they will have to do something magic or just aimlessly lob balls at Gigi's grateful hands.
LB:Just a word on Kurzawa as I have already outlined what I want him to do. He has shown his worth this season and was a key player in a season that saw them do more than many would have given them credit for. My main interest in Kurzawa is his positional ability and speed ability, he also seems to have a Joe Allen-esque ability to always find that pass when needed and he is an exceptionally good defender that can play on both sides of the back line.
Kurzawa and Trippier give great balance to the team and we long as we keep the understanding that we keep it tight at the back and strong in the attack I am really happy these two will be able to play their part.
CB's: I have selected a balanced CB pairing of youth + experience.
On the right side is German international and regular first team player Skhodran Mustafi...Mustafi was probably the best RCB in Italy last season and if it weren't for injury would have been part of the German world cup squad. He is young but incredibly talented.
Terry is playing very well despite his age and has made Chelsea the unit at the back this season that has seen them lose only once.
Mustafi's raw talent mixed with JT's intelligence will be a massive bonus to us.
Terry will tell his defence where to be and is the natural captain for our team.
DM: Geis is a player I have rated for a long time and now he is getting his chance in the Bundesliga...and he's taking full advantage of it, a member on IBWM's top 100 players under 25 he is blessed with a great ability to read the game and make vital interceptions. Not only can he win the ball back but perhaps more importantly he can recycle...exactly what I want him to do for us. Break down their play, restart the attack...it's easy ain't it?
CM: Pjanic and Strootman.
Pjanic is our star man...but we won't let him know that . He is full of running and can pop up and defend one minute and get a jinky run past 4-5 players the next whilst slipping the ball past the keeper. A real box to box player, and one with exceptional skills too!!
He is partnered with Strootman...A really hardworking pairing in the middle that is proven in the real world, they have a great knowledge and know how to compliment each other. When one goes the other will hold. Strootman will show this week why LVG is so keen on bringing him to united.
Attack:
Ox and Gonzalez out wide, work rate and pace...this is going to be key as much like liverpool last season I want to break quick with players round the back of the defenders... the more players the defenders have to think about the more likely they'll make mistakes...plus the make room for each other and the on rushing midfield.
ST:
Studge!
What a difference from the frustrated player at Chelsea. The boy has obvious talent and can score all sorts of goals, tap in's, long rangers, headers, skillfull flicks. The hope for England that we may soon have a very special player on our team. I put faith in Sturridge and this is what he needs to perform his best. Confidence is key and when this boy is confident he will be the key!
Subs:
If losing: 65mins: Geis off for Bony.
Strootman goes holding and we move a 4-4-2 Diamond with Pjanic at the tip.
posted on 6/5/15
-----------------------------Joel
Ivanovic---Alderweireld--Nastasic---Monreal
--------------------------Rabiot
----------------Wanyama---Wijnaldum
Mané----------------Strandberg---------Jero
Wallace
Weiser
Barkley
Simon
Sinclair
Against Fishguard we know that the key to victory is to find the gaps in between his formation, exploit the lack of experience in their team and play a high tempo, pressing game against their midfielders. We feel we have picked an applicable first 11 to accomplish all of these feats.
First we must acknowledge the set up of the entire back four. Each player is very capable at pressing the opposition and applying pressure to their attackers. Ivanovic and Monreal are both strong enough to nullify the attacking threat of the wingers, and will look to rob them of the ball before looking down the line to counter attack. Alderweireld has the duty of man marking the opposition's lone striker. Capable both in the air and on the ground, Alderweireld must not give him space or time to move on the ball, robbing it before looking for the pass forward. Nastasic will pull off slightly, monitoring any breaking runs from midfield and picking up and attacker who is unmarked at the time. He also has the job of sweeping for Alderweireld, looking to stop any danger the striker poses if he gets away from the Belgian. All four players are capable on the ball, but will sit back as a flat back four as we do not want to invIt's pressure from the counter attacks they may try and play. We feel this makes us sufficiently solid at the back, and reduces drastically the threat of the opposition attack force.
Rabiot plays a key role sat in front of the back four. It is his job to pick up the runs of the Fishguard attacking midfielders, preventing them from supporting the opposition striker, and as a result cutting off his service through the middle. He is strong enough to outmuscle anyone Fishguard throw at us, as well as being mobile enough not to get outwitted. If anyone does get past him then he will not be too afraid to get stuck in and put in last ditch tackles to alleviate the defence of further pressure.
Wanyama and Wijnaldum must work as a team to isolate the threat that the Foshguard midfielders pose. Both are strong, industrious players, capable of putting pressure on, and out muscling, much less experienced and younger players. When off the ball they will Harry and pressurise the central midfielders (if they hold possession) not giving them any time to build up play and attack our goal. They must block off runs towards our penalty area, doing whatever it takes to get in the way. When on the ball they have license to burst forward and support the attack. If they pick up the ball from range then they can take a shot, putting Ryan under as much pressure as we can as we see him as a weak point. They have high energy levels and as a result can keep up a high tempo game for 90 minutes.
Mané and Jero will pose direct threats from out wide. The Fishguard system leaves space open for us to exploit and attack. Both our wingers are technically ept and can get in crossing positions before putting crosses into our fox in the box in Strandberg. We have a clinical striker and two wingers that, through pace and guile, can present him with many, many chances. On top of this the wingers are equally capable at running at their opponent, creating more space for Strandberg in the penalty are. Like Wanyama and Wijnaldum they are licensed to take shots from range to put Ryan under high levels of pressure. Most of their game play will be about running into the penalty area and at the lonely sweeper that Welshy plays. One key tactic is for them to run at goal, pull Ryan out and knock the ball across goal for the other winger to race in and slot home.
Strandberg at times will act as a distraction, occupying the attentions of Welshy's two defensive centre backs. However he also has the strength to bomb into the penalty area and latch onto rebounds, thus making him a constant threat.
SUBSTITUTIONS
Whatever the score
Mané off, Barkley on 65 minutes
Offers us a different form of wide player, he will cut inside and carry on running at Welshy's sweeper, looking to create space for Jero. The wingers will continue to pose the majority of our threats. Barkley offers fresh legs against tiring defenders.
If losing
Jero off, Simon on 75 minutes
Fresh legs out wide
If winning
Ivanovic off, Weiser on 75 minutes
Fresh legs to deal with the pace of Fischer
posted on 12/5/15
Notts County vs Tenby
-------------------------------De Gea--------------------------------
Lichtsteiner----------Gimenez--------Marquinhos--------Bernat
-----------------------------Verratti----------------------------------
------------------Thiago-------------Isco---------------------------
Alexis-----------------------------------------------------Reus
-----------------------------Icardi------------------------------------
Subs: Tolisso, Romagnoli, Soriano, Correa, Martial
Game Plan: another big game up against Di's boys today, so we're ready and looking forward to continuing our good form, we'll set up in our usual 4-3-3 system, we'll look to dominate possession from the off, despite being away from home, every man from 1-11 is very comfortable in possession. By keeping as much possession as possible we'll look to be patient and create space by moving the ball from side to side with a quick tempo, with Didi expected to play a similar system to us it should give us plenty of opportunity to dominate the midfield and then take advantage in the wide areas with the pace and movement of our front 3, if however they set up in a natural 4-2-3-1 or a 3-4-3 formation that have been used in the past then we can adapt, 4-2-3-1 would give us more opportunity to dominate the midfield centrally and 3-5-2 would make it easier to be effective in the wide areas.
Defensively we will look to push high up the pitch, all of our defenders are lightning quick so are able to do this without fear of Tenby being able to spring us on the counter attack. The reason for the high line is to condense the space while out of possession for the midfield and attack of Tello, they have real pace outwide, but lack a bit of pace in the middle with Xavi, Allen and Jorginho etc, denying them the space to get on the ball and turn at our defence will be crucial in winning this game, the idea is to keep their quality attacking players as far away from our goal as possible. The gap between the defence and the forwards should be very tight, we don't necessarily need to go chasing the ball from their CB's but when the wing backs and midfielders of Tenby receive the ball, the nearest player (whether that be a midfielder, striker or defender) should be sprinting out to him to put him under pressure, when a player leaves his position, the next man must always be aware to cover the space he leaves, it's a very fluid system that requires a lot of hard work and concentration but we're good enough to do it, we want to force Tenby to either have to pass backwards or force a mistake from the man in possession.
As spoken of previously in the tactics, we will look to be in possession a damn site more than we are out of it, we will move the ball with tempo and pace between the midfielders and forwards, however we must not be afraid to play the ball backwards in order to keep the ball if a forward pass is not on, the idea behind keeping possession for so long is to draw defenders out of position and exploit the gaps that they leave, it's very difficult to concentrate as a defender if you're under pressure for a long time, mistakes will happen.
Our 3 forwards Reus, Icardi and Alexis again are all comfortable receiving the ball to feet and linking play effectively, their movement and pace will be key in dragging defenders out of position and then exploiting that space in order to create chances, this front 3 will always create chances with the quality of our midfield supplying them, they just have to take them, and they have all proven capable of that in their careers.
Substitutions: if losing after 70 minutes, Angel Correa for Marco Verratti, Correa to play as a genuine no10 off Icardi, Isco to play alongside Thiago in a 2 man midfield.
If winning after 75 minutes, Roberto Soriano for Isco, Verratti stays in the holding role, Soriano will go alongside Thiago in the midfield and is a much more defensively sound player than Isco, he will chase and tackle all day, but retains the quality to keep the ball under pressure.
Captain: De Gea
Corners: Isco
Free Kicks: Thiago
Penalties: Reus
posted on 12/5/15
---------------Wellenruether--------------
Corchia---J.Stones---Jagielka---Hector
-------Pogba-----Gomes-----Xhaka------
Santiago--------Benteke--------Berahino
Padoin, L.Silva, Brandt, Ritchie, Morata
(Santiago = Santiago Mina)
Jagielka is the Captain, the leader at the back, he sits spare whilst Stones picks up the CF,, Jags will lead him through thegame, in fact the whole back 4 will go by Jags instructions. While Stones is picking up the CF, Jags, takes a step off him as he will be mindful of the CF if he gets away from Stones or indeed any other attcaker that comes through. Stones needs to be strong and mature in this role, he cannot be bullied by the CF, although he is a quick, powerful boy. Also by mature I mean he must make desicions quickly to where he has to be, that is where Jags helps him, The two will form a powerful partnership with no messing.
Corchia and Jonas Hector are two good attacking fullbacks, but I do stress, one goes at a time whilst the other stays back to keep three at the back. When they attack I want them up supporting our attack, getting beyond the wide forwards to take on there fullabacks and get to the bye line, so Santi and Saido can cut in and support Benteke. Whip in crosses for the big man to attack. When defending the lines, push the wingers out wide and stay on feet, dont dive in, this will force the player back or into a space they cant get out of.
With Wellenruether behind the back four this is a solid defence, with the keeper shouting when he comes out for the ball, he will punch clear what he cant catch and look to release the ball early.
Gone for a midfield 3 which has everything, they can tackle, attack, score...Gomes central is more defensiive so he sits in and takes care of there AM, he will hound him down and makes sure he doesnt have any time on the ball to dictate play, Pogba and Xhaka either side makes sure we ar very difficult to get passed as they will be onto the other midfielders very quickly. Once we have the ball then look to drive forward, passing and moving Pogba and Xhaka will be helped by an attacking fullback as they try to get the ball upfield, use triangles with the two wide men to get beyond the defenders and into support Benteke. All three are tireless runners and never give up a lost cause..
Santiago Mina and Berahino either side of Benteke, there for pace, I want to push them back by playing a high line which will stop there fullbacks attacking, do this and there is no real reason for them to track back, however I do want them to stop them if they do, by playing the high line it will make there defenders wary of any counter we have. with support from either fullback I want the opposite player to drive into the box so there is at least him, Benteke and Pogba/Hxaka in the box when crosses come in, one of Pogba/Xhaka sit on the edge. Benteke will win a good percentage of crosses coming in so if he doesnt go for goal, look to head/chest it down to on runners. He is a very powerful boy and will go passed defenders like they aint there. A good outlet for us. The attcking players I want swarming round him as we go for goal.
Captain - Jagileka
Penalties - Benteke
Free Kicks - Pogba
Corners - Wide men
Subs
Losing -
70 Mins - Brandt > Berahino, M.Ritchie > Mina, Morata > Xhaka - 4-4-2 fresh wingers to hurt tiring fullbacks and Morata joins Benteke up front
Winning
70 Mins - Lucas Silva > Xhaka
80 Mins - Padoin > Mina, sits in a bit
85 Mins - Brandt > Berahino 4-5-1 a flat midfield 5
Drawing -
70 Mins - M.Ritchie > Mina, Brandt > Berahino new wingers new threat for fullbacks.
80 Mins - Morata > Xhaka 4-4-2
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