TAIWAN

4-2-3-1

_______________________Navas____________________
Coleman_______Musacchio_____Knoche_________Shaw
_________________Can______Ward-Prowse___________
Hahn___________________Drmic____________Bellarabi
______________________Di Natale__________________
SUBS: De Sanctis, Kolasinac, Teixeira, Brandt, Promes

Captain: Antonio Di Natale
Right free-kicks: James Ward-Prowse
Left free-kicks: James Ward-Prowse
Penalties: Antonio Di Natale
Right corners: James Ward-Prowse
Left corners: James Ward-Prowse

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

Hahn - Can - Ward-Prowse - Drmic
Di Natale - Bellarabi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Barcelona team and tactics:

-----------------------Iralzoz------------------------

Arbeloa—San Jose---Laporte----Balenzagia

-------------------Gabi---------Tiago--------------------

Deulofeu-------------Klaassen--------------Tello

---------------------------Unal-------------------------------

Subs:
Martinez, Jonathan, Dyer, Aduriz, Bamford

Game Plan:
Today we intend on playing a game of keep ball and quick 1, 2’s with pace when the opposition come and get the ball off us and get break forward quickly.

Defence:
Our back five all play in La Liga four of them play for Athletic Bilbao and all know each other well. Iralzoz will be a commanding presence at the back. He will come and collect every ball that comes in from height, but should the element of doubt happen I want him to punch the ball out of the box as far as possible. He will also spread himself and make himself big when he gets into one on one’s with the opposition players.

Arbeloa and Balenzagia are to get the ball off Iralzoz or our Centre backs and play neat 1, 2’s with our wingers and get the ball down the field as quickly as possible. When getting down to the attacking third of the pitch, get balls into the box and in for our creative players to get on the end of. When off the ball press the opposition players off the ball and tackles are welcome to stop balls getting into the box. Right should Gabi head forward these two will stay back in our half and not venture forward, just to protect us at on the wings against counter attacks.


San Jose and Laporte are to get the ball down and play it forward to our CM and FB’s and Wingers. When off the ball press the opposition’s front players off the ball and tackles are welcome to stop the opposition players from getting through on our goal. San Jose will win everything in the air and Laporte just needs to get the ball out of the box, even to Row Z if needs be.

Midfield:
Tiago will be the one sitting this week and will put last ditch tackles in to stop the opposition players getting a run into our box. When on the ball with his vision Tiago will pick out our more creative players with his passes. Gabi will be the legs going forward and will collect the ball from deep and get forward playing cute but quick 1, 2’s with our more forward thinking players. Tiago and Gabi are also encouraged to press the opposition off the ball. Should our full backs head forward Gabi will not be allowed to head forward and Tiago will slot in between our CB’s to avoid been done on the counter attack. However, when our full backs are back he’ll just sit in front of our CB’s.

Klaassen, Deulofeu and Tello will look to get beyond our strikers and get goals from breaking from deep. All three will have shots at the opposition goal as well from in or outside the box. But coming from deep they’ll also get the ball off our defensive players and break forward quickly with the pace they all have. When off the ball we welcome pressing and helping our defensive players against the opposition.

Unal:
He’ll come deep looking for the ball and when he does that the three behind him will be busting a vessel to get into the box. We also want him to get into the box and score goals when the ball comes to him in the box. When off the ball we want him hounding the life out of the opposition defenders and get the ball off them.


Subs:
If Losing/Drawing:
Jonathan and Dyer on for Tiago and Deloufeu respectively (65 minutes) – Like for like but fresh pace and legs to the team.

Bamford on for Tello (70 minutes) – Bamford will join Unal up top and we go to a diamond formation in midfield with Gabi holding, Dyer and Jonathan providing legs from the side and Klaassen linking midfield with attack to the front two.

If Winning:
Bamford on for Unal (70 minutes) – fresh pair of legs with pace and like for like

Dyer on for Deulofeu (70 minutes) – like for like fresh pair of legs

Basingstoke Tactics (4-2-3-1) vs Poundland Town

-----------------------Mersin------------------
Johnson-------Zouma----Reyes-----Kurzawa
--------------Carvalho-----Ramsey-------------
Gnabry-------------Quintero------------Gayle
-----------------------Berbatov------------------

Subs: Cropper, Grimaldo, Vilhena, Kramer, Milik

Captain - Ramsey
Vice - Zouma
All FKs & Corners - Ramsey

Press high, take control of the midfield and get at Andover and test their every changing team. We won't worry too much about their game plan, looking to play our own game but making slight adjustments if necessary, but it shouldn't affect us too much as our FBs can match him and if we do drop deep our MF three is full of energy to cover the extra ground in MF.

GK - Standard stuff, he's a great shot stopper so needs to concentrate on his organisation skills and commanding of his area.

Full backs - Both are great athletes who can get up and down a lot. I want to see them both using their pace, stamina and power to get forward at every given opportunity. They're important for us to stretch the opposition allowing us more space in the middle where our dangerman can operate. They will be looking for the ball all the time. Vital to stretch the opposition.

CBs - Zouma to play at the 'first knock defender', meaning he will be the one attacking the ball when it comes into the defence and generally going up against the attackers. This suits his game plan as he's a physical specimen and aggressive to match. Reyes will play a more reserved role, but equally important. He will be calling the line - we will be playing with a high line as we have the energy in the middle and the pace to recover if the line is beaten - and reading the game aiming to be able to cover the rest of the defence at the right times. These two are a great young defence defence, and compliment each other perfectly and could be one of the best partnerships around in seasons to come.

Carvalho - Huge role in todays game plan. He's a player no-one will want to come up against and I'm looking to him to disrupt the oppositions rhymth. When the FBs are back in position he will be rampant in the MF, protecting the back 4. When the FBs are back he will drop into the defence and offer them support in numbers as he has all the attributes to play there. His energy levels will be vital for us.

Ramsey - Gets to play his natural game today. He will dictate the play from deep often and will play as a more traditional box to box CM, almost like he's playing in a 4-4-2, just with Carvalho slightly behind him. It's important that if Carvalho drops into defence Ramsey makes sure he's protecting the defence, but it's his natural game to sit from deep first and attack when the time is right, so we should be tough to break down, especially given his incredible energy levels which should make it extremely tough for the opposition to play the ball in the middle, especially with our high line. When the time comes he can break forward at a decent speed and he has a knack of popping up at the right time to get important goals. Essentially the midfield energy levels and intelligence are vital today, as it will give us a solid foundation whilst also allowing us to get numbers forward to trouble the opposition.

Quintero - He's settled into the team now and I'm trying to get him playing his natural game and letting his talent flourish. Him and Ramsey will be the ones on the ball most often. He has license to come deep and pick the ball up if he likes and drive forward with it, but most of all I want him getting into the gaps left by the Andover midfield. They're not the most defensive midfield and have no natural anchorman, so there will be space for Quintero to exploit, and when he has the ball in this positions he can do it all - pick passes, beat men or hit them from distance. This variation will make him incredibly difficult to stop and will make the team less predictable as a whole. If people get drawn to Quintero, he can find the runners exploiting the space. If people back off him, he can drive forward or hit a twonker from range.

Gnabry and Gayle - Key role today as they are going to be our main outlets for the midfield, aside from the full backs. Whilst both have license to drift inside or swap wings, basically looking for weaknesses in the opposition defence, they still have defensive duties to perform. So it's important they keep an eye on each other and make sure between them both flanks are covered and they are willing to track back and help the defence.

Berbatov - Just to play his natural game today. Bring players into the game with his good hold up play and look to attack the box at the vital times as he is known for.

Subs - 70 mins - Milik & Vilhena on for Quintero and Berbatov

77 mins - Kramer for Carvalho

All changes are like for like, just to give us fresh legs and allow us to keep up with the style of play we want, whilst having genuine quality coming off the bench.

Tactics for 8/10

TAIWAN

4-2-3-1

_______________________Navas____________________
Coleman_______Musacchio____Demichelis_______Shaw
________________Barry________Alonso______________
Hahn___________________Totti_____________Bellarabi
______________________Di Natale__________________
SUBS: De Sanctis, Knoche, Ward-Prowse, Brandt, Promes

Captain: Francesco Totti
Right free-kicks: Francesco Totti
Left free-kicks: Francesco Totti
Penalties: Antonio Xabi Alonso
Right corners: Xabi Alonso
Left corners: Xabi Alonso

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

Hahn - Barry - Alonso - Totti
Di Natale - Bellarabi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Barcelona team and tactics:

-----------------------Iralzoz------------------------

Arbeloa—San Jose---Laporte----Balenzagia

-------------------Gabi---------de Marcos--------------------

Dyer------------Klaassen--------------Tello

---------------------------Unal-------------------------------

Subs:
Didtin, Jonathan, Kishna, Aduriz, Bamford

Game Plan:
Today we intend on playing a game of keep ball and quick 1, 2’s with pace when the opposition come and get the ball off us and get break forward quickly.

Defence:
Our back five all play in La Liga four of them play for Athletic Bilbao and all know each other well. Iralzoz will be a commanding presence at the back. He will come and collect every ball that comes in from height, but should the element of doubt happen I want him to punch the ball out of the box as far as possible. He will also spread himself and make himself big when he gets into one on one’s with the opposition players.

Arbeloa and Balenzagia are to get the ball off Iralzoz or our Centre backs and play neat 1, 2’s with our wingers and get the ball down the field as quickly as possible. When getting down to the attacking third of the pitch, get balls into the box and in for our creative players to get on the end of. When off the ball press the opposition players off the ball and tackles are welcome to stop balls getting into the box. Right should Gabi head forward these two will stay back in our half and not venture forward, just to protect us at on the wings against counter attacks.


San Jose and Laporte are to get the ball down and play it forward to our CM and FB’s and Wingers. When off the ball press the opposition’s front players off the ball and tackles are welcome to stop the opposition players from getting through on our goal. San Jose will win everything in the air and Laporte just needs to get the ball out of the box, even to Row Z if needs be.

Midfield:
De Marcos will be the one sitting this week and will put last ditch tackles in to stop the opposition players getting a run into our box. When on the ball with his vision de Marcos will pick out our more creative players with his passes. Gabi will be the legs going forward and will collect the ball from deep and get forward playing cute but quick 1, 2’s with our more forward thinking players. De Marcos and Gabi are also encouraged to press the opposition off the ball. Should our full backs head forward Gabi will not be allowed to head forward and de Marcos will slot in between our CB’s to avoid been done on the counter attack. However, when our full backs are back he’ll just sit in front of our CB’s.

Klaassen, Dyer and Tello will look to get beyond our strikers and get goals from breaking from deep. All three will have shots at the opposition goal as well from in or outside the box. But coming from deep they’ll also get the ball off our defensive players and break forward quickly with the pace they all have. When off the ball we welcome pressing and helping our defensive players against the opposition.

Unal:
He’ll come deep looking for the ball and when he does that the three behind him will be busting a vessel to get into the box. We also want him to get into the box and score goals when the ball comes to him in the box. When off the ball we want him hounding the life out of the opposition defenders and get the ball off them.

Subs:
Bamford for Unal (70 mins)
Kishna for Dyer (70 mins)

Whoops:

Pens: Gabi
Freekicks: Gabi
Corners: Gabi
Captain: Gabi

Fishguard Sports
Captain: Ryan
Corners: Andersen/Fischer
Free kicks: Andersen
Pens: Vietto

-----------------------------------Ryan
Meunier-----------Bazoer----------------Aké---------------Günter
---------------------------------Hendrix
----------------------------------------------Samper
----------------------Gaudino
-------Andersen---------------Vietto----------------Fischer

Starting: Ryan, Meunier, Bazoer, Aké, Günter , Hendrix, Samper, Gaudino, Andersen, Vietto, Fischer
Subs: van der Hart, Sakor, Scholl, Ödegaard, Tankovic



The first point to make about the players I have selected for this evening’s game is that they are all extremely comfortable on the ball. It is essential that this is the case as physically we are not the strongest team, but in terms of technical ability we have much quality.

In my opinion the position of defensive midfield is the key to all I want to achieve. For parts of the game Jorrit Hendrix will fill this position, but for stretches of the game it will be Sergi Samper – this I will explain below. As touched upon we do not possess an ‘enforcer style’ defensive midfielder, however instead we possess two players who are equally excellent at intercepting opposition passes and quickly recycling the ball, doing both with unequalled composure.

Now the question is; why do I need two players who can play at DM?

I’m going to play what appears to be a standard back four, with Hendrix sat in front of the two centre backs. However, whilst Meunier, Bazoer and Ake will need to follow a ‘defence first mentality’ I am going to use Gunter for far more offensive purposes.

When Gunter is advanced I will move Hendrix into the LCB position, with Samper becoming the DM, and Nathan Ake coving LB for the absent Christian Gunter.

Gunter has licence to combine with Fischer to terrorise the right hand side of Southend United’s defence. Both players have blistering acceleration, searing pace and the aim is to concentrate on exposing any weaknesses on that side of the pitch time and time again. I really want to stretch the right hand side of their defence by using the pace of Gunter down the line, allowing Fischer to cut in and do some serious damage. From there Fischer has a) licence to go at goal himself b) look to combine with Vietto to create goal scoring opportunities.

This all means that I can hammer their right sided defence but remain with 4 defenders and a defensive midfielder at all times.

When we are defending and Gunter is back in position then Hendric as DM will have both Samper and Gaudino as outlets ahead of him, when Samper is playing at DM then he has Gaudino or the Gunter/Fischer combo as his main forward outlets (see notes on Andersen also).

However, Samper or Hendrix can also play backwards if necessary as all of the defenders are happy to be on the ball as we look to recycle and concentrate on looking to get the ball to our left hand side and back up the pitch.

At some point Southend will have to react to our relentless torture of the right hand side of their defence. At which stage, we’ll look to bring Andersen more into play. Whilst at times Andersen will appear to be a spare leg, this is far from the truth. If Southend try to cover the weakness in their right – then I’ll want to see beautifully weighted long balls from Hendrix or Samper over to Andersen on our right hand side and he can go direct towards the goal at pace. A box of tricks, screaming pace – he’s the threat that they won’t see coming.

Gaudino is young (like the rest of our team) but he’s extremely composed for his age, and he has the important job of making sure that Hendrix/Samper have a forward option to play the ball whenever possible. He can then look to play Gunter in, or look for a killer through ball into Vietto or Fischer. He can also defend well, so if we’re becoming swamped then he can provide support to Samper.

Whilst Vietto is playing as CF he is equally known as a player who can play behind the main forward, which is good – as he’s prepared to drop deep if we’re losing the midfield battle, and with Fischer cutting in from the left hand side he’s not always going to be the most advanced player. However, when Gunter/Fischer – or Andersen are on the attack – he can leave waste to the opponent’s defensive midfielder and put immediate pressure on the centre backs, who best not be caught ball watching as Fischer/Andersen close in on them. Vietto is also well known for his goal scoring efforts outside the penalty box as well as close range, and I am happy to encourage him to do this if he thinks that he is in prime position to do so. Vietto also combines exceptionally well with players around him - Fischer in particular, so expect lots of clever movement, quick tidy interplay as we look to take apart the Southend defence.

Subs: Tankovic on for Vietto on 80th minute

Blyth vs Notts county 4-4-2 Diamond

.......................Reina.....................
De Sciglio...Barzagli..Romagnoli..Rojo
.....................De Jong....................
............De Rossi...........Barkley........
........................Insigne...........
...............Zaza..............Agbonlahor

Subs: Gordon, Maldini, Essien, Lambert, Toni

Captain - De Rossi
Free kicks - Insigne
Corners - Insigne
Pens - Insigne

Massive disappointment last week as we tasted defeat for the first time this season, This week is all about the mythical bounce-back ability...we've borrowed Carlito Ancelotti's 4-4-2 diamond that his all conquering Milan side used to great affect(culminating in a 2007 champions league victory and revenge over Liverpool)...today is about possession football keeping hold of the ball and tiring out Mex's players before upping the tempo with quick direct probing passes and runs, players are instructed to keep it simple and use the easy ball, the diamond in the middle lends itself readily to ball retention and all 4 men are comfortable in possession, I'm well aware this puts greater emphasis on my full backs but I'll cover that in the main body of my tactics. The other reason behind the switch to the 4-4-2 is that I'm not a fan of one up top as it leaves the striker isolated, this way we're solid at the back and have one on ones with County's centre backs.

Reina: After a good start for Blyth he's shipped too many goals lately, just a blip or a sign of things to come? he's knows his business and I'm sure he'll come good, will be asked to do all the standard goal keeper things like ya'know saving shots etc.....

De Sciglio/Rojo - De Scig and Rojo both have fantastic engines and will put them to good use as they plough up and down the lines like Pendolino trains. Harassing County's wingers when they have the ball snapping into tackles as we as a team press hard and try to get at them as they take the first touch, before charging forwards to join attacks and bang crosses into our strikers. defensively as always will show the line and try to force the cross or a pass backwards,

Barzagli/Romagnoli - The master and his apprentice, Barzagli battle hardened warhorse that he is will talk Romagnoli through the game, like a steady hand on his shoulder, Barz will be the man to man marker using all his guile and experience to try and eek out any advantages that he can. They say his pace has gone but his reading of the game is still stellar and this stands us all in good stead. Romagnoli comes in for his debut after leaving Notts county last week. Product of Roma's famed youth academy quick across the ground and great in the air already established in Italy's U21 side, will act as the spare man, dealing with loose balls (Secondary's) or tracking late runs from County's midfield, gives us a nice right/left footed centre back combination and great balance between skill sets.

De Jong - The enforcer is back and finally gives us our first choice midfield, his job is key for us today as he anchors our midfield and covers the forward runs by De Sciglio and Rojo, meaning we always have a minimum of 3 defenders back. In Possession NDJ will just keep simple with short quick passes to the likes of De Rossi or Barkley who are better on the ball or play out wide for De Sciglio and Rojo to run with. When County push on Tielemans becomes NDJ's responsibility to deal with as he sees fit.

De Rossi - The emperor will play more advanced this week as NDJ returns to be the anchor...There's not a lot this man can't do and it's those all action performances that we need of him this week and next as we chase an unlikely title. Box to box role for him as he looks to fully utilise his range of passing and dictating the pace and rhythm of the game...has a great shot and will look to try his luck from distance should the opportunity present itself. Part of me feels he's better as the anchor so he can be a deep lying playmaker, but defensively today he has a particular task and that is to shackle Thiago so by playing him in the middle of the park Alcantara is directly in his sights....If he can win this particular battle then it goes a long way to us controlling the midfield battle and thus the game.

Barkley - Another young talented player, good on the ball and very direct when running with it, will be the second box to box in our quest to control the centre of the pitch, where as De Jong and De Rossi are on man marking duties Ross's defensive work will be tracking County's full back on whichever side they're attacking (should they attack) to stop our full backs being overwhelmed. He doesn't have to chase all the way back but he does need to be a presence for our high pressing game to be effective, With the ball will look to use it sensibly linking with our other midfielders and/or running from deep, another player that likes to have a go from distance and as with De Rossi this will be encouraged....gotta buy a ticket to win the raffle and all that

Insigne - Now Totti's left he's again our undoubted #10...the leagues top assister and hopefully can get a few more playing more centrally, blessed with great acceleration and a low centre of gravity, playing for Napoli automatically gives him the Diego comparisons, big game player and we need one from him today...Offensively will link the midfield and attack, plays with his head up as he looks for the killer through ball, him De Rossi and Barkley should be able to link very well as Zaza and Aggy make runs to creat space for over-laps, Defensively he'll tuck in and press from the front helping us to double up on County's ball players.

Zaza/Agbonlahor - Could I feel be a good partnership. Zaza is big and strong a proper bull like striker, I've said it before but for me he's Tevez like, runs all day and won't give Manolas or Bonucci (for the record I rate both defenders highly) a breather as he harasses and harries from the front forcing rushed passes/clearances, will be a target/link up man using his 6ft frame to shield the ball from the defence spending great amounts of time with his back to goal, but has a great touch and will bring others into play. Aggy on the other hand is different kettle of fish, blessed with blistering pace so will play off Zaza's shoulder splitting the centre backs and trying to turn them, as good as Manolas and Bonucci are when he runs them they don't wont be catching him. will use this directness to his advantage forcing them to dive in and risk free kicks and bookings.

Subs 65 Mins regardless of score line

Essien > De Jong - Like for like change, but our high pressing game is a lung buster and Essien brings fresh legs.

Maldini > Barzagli - Maldini goes left back,Rojo goes centre back...Rojo adds more physicality and pace into the middle and with a better engine replaces the tiring Barzagli, Maldini wil be asked to provide the width and attacking outlet on the left to mirror De Sciglio on the right.

Toni > Zaza - Another who's lung busting efforts are rewarded with an early respite, Luca despite his age is still a fantastic target man big strong and great in the air will look to bully County's defenders and cause space for others to exploit. (20 goals and 11 assists in 34 games last season and 1 goal and 2 assists in 6 this season)

The end

FL FART vs Stockport tactics

------------------------1. Jefferson

15. Carvajal---4. Rami-----17. Zapata---3. Armero

--------------24. Toure----19. Cambiasso

20. Wijnaldum--------------------------------7. Menez

----------------9. Morata------29. Ba

SUBS:
2. Amat
12. Matthews
11. Hernandez
16. Bakkali
21. Piazon

*******************

Overview: I'm going with an attacking 4-4-2 this week. Annoying how Stockport against Fart was billed as a heavyweight encounter in midfield but both teams have been hit hard in the middle by injuries so that midfield battle looks like it'll be less of a spectacle than hoped.

Our general game plan is fairly standard for Fart - we have a good solid back line who will stay back in a tight and compact shape, protected by a strong midfield spine, looking to win the ball in our own half before getting it forward quickly, marauding forwards with our prodigious pace and power on the flanks and up front. We're not a hoof-ball team - I'd like us to move the ball from back to front with quick and snappy passes, one-twos and lay-offs along the ground rather than lumping it up - although our strikers are both strong in the air so the long ball is an option if we're desperate.

*******************

Keeper - Jefferson
He'll be asked to keep things simple today. No sweeping or anything daft like that. Brazil's #1 will save whatever would go in the goal, and distribute it short or with a quick throw to the flanks or Toure.

Full backs: Carvajal and Armero
Same story - both are quick and dynamic and will tuck in alongside the centre halves in defence to keep things tight before springing forward at pace and getting round the wingers when they tuck inside. They have the gas to get up and down all match long. Armero will appreciate playing alongside his Colombian compatriot Zapata. I expect Stockport to be stronger in attacking midfield than up front, so I'll be asking Carvajal and Armero to stick like glue to the Stockport attacking midfielders (especially Draxler) whenever they have the ball in dangerous positions.

Centre backs: Rami and Zapata
Both CBs are excellent all-rounders, good in the air and comfortable on the ball, both strong and quick. Rami is a born leader, physically immense and not afraid to scream his head off to keep his back line organised. I'm expecting them to dominate the Stockport strikers - with the best will in the world I don't think Stockport's strength is up front, and the Fart CBs' experience and power should prove too much. Stockport's Danny Ings is quick so the CBs will be asked to defend fairly deep to protect against the ball in behind; the full backs will be tasked with closing down the wingers aggressively and spotting and blocking off any gaps Stockport might look to exploit before banging forward on the counter. The centre halves will distribute the ball quickly to our forward players on the counter.

Central midfield: Toure and Cambiasso
Toure will do his normal thing, smashing his way through midfield with pace and power and getting forwards as much as possible when in possession. Cambiasso will do his usual thing, bustling across the defensive line, closing down space and being a terrier in the tackle. He'll keep possession ticking with sensible ball use and will keep his positional discipline to make interceptions in our own half before offloading the ball to a more forward-thinking colleague - Toure, or the full backs or wide men primarily. Toure will have extra defensive responsibilities today, looking to overpower the depleted Stockport midfielder, and we'll look to him to win the ball aggressively from the Stockport midfielders before bursting forward in support of the forwards.

Wingers: Wijnaldum and Menez
Both attacking mids are quick, direct, tricky and strong, and I'm letting them interchange at will to confuse the Stockport defence and pull them out of shape all along their back line. Wijnaldum and Menez are both creative playmakers as well as wingers who will look to play balls in to Morata's and Ba's feet for the one-two, but they're also quick and have great energy so can get round the back of the Stockport defence and drill in low balls and cutbacks, or they can drive at the defence and cause them problems in their own right. The left-sided winger will cut in and go for goal more often, putting the Stockport right back on his weaker side while Ba pulls wide to drag the centre half out of position, leaving the left-sided winger with a gap to attack. The winger is then free to go for goal with his stronger right foot. The right-sided winger will be more of a traditional winger, looking to cut inside less and get round the back more (meaning Carvajal at right back can stay back and defend a bit more than Armero rather than constantly looking to overlap). When the right winger does drift inside I'll look for him to play one-twos with Morata and to thread balls through to Morata, Ba and the onrushing Toure.

Up front: Morata and Ba
Morata will do his normal thing - being big, strong and a handful for defenders. He'll pull deeper than Ba to provide a link between midfield and attack, as a target man for Toure and the wingers to hit with balls to feet as he's excellent with his back to goal. Most crosses into Morata will be low-ish and hard. Morata will play an unselfish role bringing others into play, particularly the wingers and Toure as they look to get beyond, and his hard work will create plenty of space for them all by occupying a centre half and pulling him out of the backline for Toure to exploit the space. Ba will play more on the shoulder and rather than pulling his centre half into midfield by dropping deep (which Morata will do), he'll look to run the channels and pull his centre half wide, meaning that the left-sided winger can drive inside into the left striker position. Ba is a bit quicker off the mark than Morata so for the most part he'll be the one getting on the end of through balls from the wingers and Toure/Morata and will potentially provide more of a goal threat than Morata.

Captain: Rami
Free kicks: Toure
Penalties: Toure
Corners: Wijnaldum (right); Menez (left)

*******************

IF WINNING:
Ba off for Hernandez, 70 mins - Like for like.

Armero off for Matthews, 75 mins - Like for like, although Matthews is less offensive-minded than Armero and will be a bit more solid defensively.

Morata off for Bakkali, 75 mins - Bakkali takes over from Wijnaldum on the wing, and Wijnaldum drops into the #10 position behind Hernandez. We go 4-2-3-1 and play more of a possession game to see out the win.

*******************

IF LOSING/DRAWING:

Cambiasso off for Piazon, 70 mins - Toure steps in as the holding midfielder (less licence to get forwards although he still can when the time is right). Wijnaldum into the #10 position, Piazon to the right wing (although all 3 attacking mids - Wijnaldum, Piazon and Menez, can interchange at will) as we go 4-1-3-2 and throw the kitchen sink at Stockport.

Carvajal off for Amat, and Armero off for Hernandez, 80 mins - proper kitchen sink time. We line up as follows:

------------------------1. Jefferson

------------2. Amat----4. Rami----17. Zapata

-------------------------24. Toure

21. Piazon---------20. Wijnaldum-----------7. Menez

-----------29. Ba-----9. Morata---11. Hernandez

With that much attacking power on the pitch, we should be able to get at least one goal back, don'tcha think? We'll be super aggressive in the tackle, pushing forwards even more and chucking in the odd long ball as we chase a goal.

PEACE

SPUNKALLOVERYOURFORT vs Haak's side

------------------------Forster-------------------------
Clyne--------Fonte---------Ginter---------Targett
---------------Hughes-------Clasie------------------
--Berardi-----------------------------------Draxler---
--------------D. Ings--------Gallagher---------------

Subs: Green, McNair, Reed, Grealish, Muric

General - Oh injuries Basically tore my team to shreds, 4 starters, and a couple of immediate back ups sees my team playing a very much weakened side.

We're going for a very much tried and tested formation of 4-4-2, with the focus being on the wingers being the danger men, and a 'little and large' combination up front which should get the best out of each other and the wingers.

Haak's danger man is, obviously, Toure. However, the Ivorian has a massive achilles heel which we'll look to exploit... All will be explained below

Defence - With the main danger being from my wingers getting up and wide to whip crosses in, the two FBs will be asked to offer support, but rarely overlap their team mate - Think Gary Neville and David Beckham. By doing this, the FBs offer support when we attack, giving us numbers, but also they don't need to neglect their defensive duties, because they should be deep enough to quickly return into the correct position if we lose the ball.

The CBs have a tough job today, we know Haak has a hell of a strike force on him. Today, I'm asking them to stick nice and deep, around the 18 yard box, this forces Haak to rely on shots from distance, which Forster will easily mop up. Or, he'll have to really work something special to break through the CB pairing (due to the limited amount of space behind them, any through ball has to be perfect).

When distributing the ball, Forster, and the two CBs, should look to the FBs or into the feet of the CMs and or go long to Gallagher who offers us the best chance of retaining the ball if it's lumped forward.

Midfield - Hughes and Clasie may look light weight, and well, they are, I'm not looking forward to Yaya barrelling through either of them However, they are feisty young players, always up for a battle and their constant menacing presence should be enough to put Yaya off, stopping him having as much time as he'd like.

As I said, I feel Toure has one major problem... He leaves acres of space behind him when he barrels forward, once he gets going, he leaves little regard for the defensive side. Once he's on the move, Clasie should look to intercept his run (as the more defensive of my two CMs) and Hughes will look to move to occupy the space that Yaya leaves behind, allowing us to initiate speedy counters with numbers and space on our side. Once they get the ball, they need to get it out to the wingers as quickly as possible.

Now the important bits! Berardi and Draxler are two of the very best wingers in the league, speed, skill, and creativity in abundance, they need to isolate their FBs and force the issue to them (the strikers will aid this, as discussed below ). They need to try and beat them (inside or out, either's good). The aim is really to get behind the defensive line, from here, they can lay it in low to Ings (who's pace should carry him beyond the strikers, in line with the wingers who are now beyond the defensive line), or they can take their time and pick out a cross for Gallagher who's aerial presence and power should have him fighting strongly for any crosses.

I think the key point to really pull out and emphasise is that with the ability that Draxler and Berardi possess, they should annihilate Haak's FBs, and thus buy themselves time and space * behind Haak's defenders *. At this point the 'little and large' striker combination I talked about comes into play, because it gives the two wingers plenty of options to aim for.

Strikers - Sorry to repeat myself Di These two are a 'little and large' combination - If Berardi and Clyne were Becks and Neville, these two could be Heskey and Owen I suppose.

Ings possesses so much pace it's frightening, he's faster than all of Haak's CBs. This is an important trait, because if the wingers are aiming to beat the defensive lines, then they can simply play a straight ball across, and Ings will be the first one onto it - The CBs will still be playing catch up. This should be the easiest way to break through the Fart defence as it leaves Ings one-on-one. Obviously though, if Haak has left one CB playing deeper than the other, rather than a conventional line, this tactic may get a bit more difficult to execute. I can't see him playing a sweeper though, only ever came up against Welshy who's done that as far as I remember.

Gallagher - The 'Heskey' of the duo (seems so rude to call him that ). But hey ho. He's the big, brutish battle axe. Once the wingers have beaten their man, the whole of Haak's back line should be chasing backwards, trying to catch up to Ings. This is just a natural reaction that any, and all, defences are guilty of. Ings should then be able to drop a little deeper, occupying the space that the CBs have left in their charge to catch Ings. The wingers should have the time and space to look up, see him alone in the area and pick out a perfect cross to give him a chance to strike, or head, at goal.

To sum up, Ings pulls strikers back towards goal, and makes the low cross an option. Gallagher plays on the space that Ings' run opens up, giving the option for a more considered cross.

Subs -

Losing -

60 - Gallagher off for Grealish.

Grealish is a fantastic talent, playing either wing, he's very quick which is important here. Draxler will move into the middle, a conventional No.10 spot and really use his talent to run at the defence, opening up lots of space and dragging Haak's players all across the park. With a No.10 in front of them, it takes pressure of Hughes and Clasie, who will now be asked to step up the pitch, and really take the game to Fart.

The wingers will look to cut in more often, allowing the FBs to get beyond them and whip in crosses.

Drawing/Winning -

60 - Gallagher off for Reed.

Drop a striker for a CM, really shore up the midfield and take control of the game. Reed is, again, a young talent, but one schooled in Southampton's possession game. Very good on the ball, he should give us that extra bit of control we need to see the game out.

Should be noted, we're happy to take a draw today against a dangerous Fart side, especially whilst we're so badly affected by injury.

Arsenal tactics

---------------------------Bravo---------------------------
Arias----------Fernandez------De Vrij----------Cole
----------------------Silva-------Xavi---------------------
---Piatti-----------------Cabella-----------------Perisic
-------------------------Ibrahimovic--------------------

Subs: Aranzubia, Naldo, Gago, Coman, Drogba

General: We attack and penetrate them with the crowd cheering us on. We have to take advantage that their star striker is injured which will give us the impetus to attack and take more risks. However, we know the attack for Robben and we make sure is doubled up every time he steps inside our half. We have to play in a fast tempo and make sure our midfield are in their most focussed as we can't assume that they will just let us play. We have to dominate the midfield and have to get the ball as quick (on the floor) to Zlatan as possible as we know his current form is nothing short of brilliant. We are balanced yet we shall press them and cut the supply to Robben and co.

Defence
We expect Robben to be their catalyst so we have to respect his quality and have Cole and Silva to double up on him. Cole is more calculated and Silva more a destroyer and Robben won't like a kick from time to time. Other than him, they have quality players and we can't take them lightly so Fernandez and De Vrij have to be concentrated. In the air we shall dominate and we do have Silva to protect as well. Both CB's to go for corners as we think they will score. When we defend, we cannot commit to dive into tackles as we know how 'certain' players dive for a living and we can't let them have any excuse for it.
Districution wise, we play it simple and quickly to Xavi and co.

Midfield
Silva will be loitering around and will be the one helping the defender that Robben targets so we dont give him any time and space to meanoeuvre and dictate. Xavi will assist him defensively but he will be looking for Cabella and Ibra to do our damage and finding them in space is key. Xavi knows that he has the talent to find anyone but he will do this with quick pace. Cabella, Perisic and Piatti have that skill to unlock any defence and Ibra will be licking his lips at the thought of all these players helping him to add to his impressive tally. The wingers will be playing wide when we attack and Perisic to also keep an eye on Robben when he defends. Cabella's pace will be a problem for any team and when he is in full flow, anything is possible.

Forward
Lone striker once again but again he will be a menace as he will be playing along the line and looking to play onside and expect our midfield to find him and the rest will be history. He has the confidence which is matched by his talent. We feel he will be too strong if he is 1v1 against anyone so Cabella to make surging runs as well as Piatti and go for goal.

Xavi off Gago 70mins. Extra protection as Gago more defensive role.

Cabella off Coman 75mins. Direct and spint for the last 15mins at tired legs.

FC Pride Tactics:

------------------------Enyeama-------------------------
Coke------------Luisao--------Castro-----------Blind
-----------------------Mascherano------------------------
-----------Hojbjerg--------------------Pirlo----------
Robben------------------Wilson---------------T.Hazard

Subs: Van Aanholt, Rosicky, Pereira, Green, Afobe

Squad:

GK: Areola
DEF: Janko, Ozcipka, James, Perrey, Suliman,
MID: Lawrence, Baker, Rowe, Roberts, Robert, Britton, Schöpf, Lingard
FOR: S. Ramirez


Injuries: Ondoa, Immobile, Abidal, Christensen

Suspended: Kouyate


Enyeama takes his place in goal, he's an experienced, agile keeper with bags of experience. He'll command his area, playing the ball out on the deck.

Luisao and Castro take up the CB spots. They're both very strong and able to win the ball back by putting pressure on the opponents attackers. Luisao is the leader at the back, he'll command the defence and bark the orders. Castro has plenty of pace to cover if needs be. They will look to feed the ball out through Pirlo or the wider players if he's marked.

Coke and Blind will take up the wing back roles. Both players have high stamina and a good range of passing. They'll be able to get up the wings tirelessly contributing in both defence and attack.

Mascherano takes up a defensive midfield role with Hojbjerg and Pirlo in more advanced roles. Pirlo will set the tempo of our play, he'll make the passes that make us tick, slowing the game down if we're under pressure or being more direct if the counter attack is on. Mascherano will sit deeper as the defensive midfielder marshalling the area in front of the defence. Hojbjerg will be the one to bring the ball forward. I'd liken them to the old Xavi (Pirlo), Iniesta (Hojbjerg) and Busquets (Masch) in terms of their responsibilities. We have the passer, the more direct player who can bring the ball forward and the defensive solidity.

Robben and Hazard will play in the wider areas, they'll have the freedom to drift inside and out (with Halilovic moving the other way) when we attack.

Wilson leads the line. He's young and quick with an eye for goal, who's also good with the ball at his feet.


Defending:

We come up against the big man, Zlatan this week. Despite his stature, he's still a player who prefers to come and pick the ball up to feet or on his chest, rather than running in behind. We have the strength and discipline of Luisao to put him under pressure when looking for the ball, and the energy and pace of Castro alongside him to clean up and loose touches. With Mascherano screening the pair, Zlatan will find it very difficult to get on the ball and that should limit his impact on the game.

We essentially become a '4-5-1' when out of possession of the ball, though Mascherano won't be rigid, he'll be hunting down the ball either side of the pitch as shown below.

Coke------Luisao-----Castro----Blind
----------- < < Mascherano > > ------------
Robben---Hojbjerg-----Pirlo-----Hazard
---------------------Wilson

His movement across the pitch is essentially to cut off the supply between Zlatan and his team mates.

When out of possession from their goal kicks we want to press our opponents high up the pitch. When they are in active possession, i.e. the ball is in play, not a dead ball situation, we will only press them when they enter our half which should open up space in behind their defence for us to attack. We are fairly rigid in terms of defending, to reduce the risk of gaps opening up, other than the role outlined for Mascherano.


Attacking:

We want to win the midfield battle, through keeping possession of the football and playing around our opponents. We have the tenacity and power, mixed with technique and pace which should allow us to do so. We have an abundance of ability and speed in wide areas which will allow us to break quickly and Pirlo will have plenty of options for a forward pass that can cut through our opponents once we've won the ball back. Also as stated above, from their goal kicks we want to give them as little time to settle on the ball as possible, with Wilson, Robben, Hazard and Hojbjerg closing men down in their areas of the pitch, this should allow us to mount quick attacks.

However in possession we will work the ball about a bit more, pulling their players out of position and exploiting the spaces created.


Captain: Pirlo
Penalties: Robben
Freekicks: Pirlo


Subs after 75 mins if losing/drawing:

Move to a 4-2-2-2

Afobe on for Hojbjerg

-----Masch---Pirlo
Rob-----------------Haz
--------Wil----Afo


If winning:

Rosicky will come in for Hojbjerg
Afobe for Hazard

Tactics vs Blyth


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

Darmian---------Bonucci-----------Manolas----------Bernat

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

------------------Thiago------------Tielemans--------------------

Brahimi------------------------------------------------------Depay

-------------------------------Alcacer--------------------------------

subs: Yedlin, Diaz, Januzaj, Marcos Lopes, Zivkovic

Game plan: our plan today is to go at Blyth from the off,our second to last game of the season against the title faves, everyone will be fired up and raring to go. We will look to press high up the pitch and condense the space in the midfield. Successful pressing is dependant on group understanding, collective perception of ball, opponent and team mate, and a massive amount of hunger and desire to have the ball. It isn’t possible to press for 90 minutes. We will have to pick our times wisely in order to do it successfully. If our players are tracking back or not close enough to the ball it isn't sensible to press the ball, we will look to capitalise on poor passes by the opposition or when a player is facing his own goal or has his head down when receiving the ball, at these times to opposition player does not have a full view of the pitch and cannot pick a forward pass.

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

In Possession

------------------------Bonucci-------Manolas------------------

Darmian------------------Iturraspe--------------------Bernat

-----------------Thiago-------------------Tielemans------------

Brahimi------------------------------------------------------Depay

----------------------------------Alcacer-----------------------------

out of possession

Darmian-----------Bonucci-------Manolas-----------Bernat

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

Brahimi----------Thiago------------Tielemans---------Depay

---------------------------------Alcacer----------------------------------

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

Defence: as has been spoken about in the game plan section, the full backs will look to push up the field when we are in possession creating the multiple lines across the pitch which is the basis of our possession philosophy. The central defenders will look to stay close to one another when out of possession, the full backs will also tuck in leaving little room in the centre of the pitch as Blyth will look to do most of their attacking through the middle, while the midfield and attack will cover the defence of the wide areas, this is not the specific job of one player as we are playing in a fluid system, it will be whoever is available to do the job at that point in time, our players have great discipline and concentration to perform in this system.

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

Thiago and Tielemans will get up and down the pitch throughout, both are very quick and very creative and can carry the ball. Both will look to move the ball quickly, as will the whole team, we will play with a high tempo throughout the game not giving Blyth any breathing space, without the ball they will look to pressurise the opposition in the centre of the pitch, but as spoken of earlier, only when it is sensible, no point doing it willy nilly and being picked off, we need to be very wary of the runs and movement of Blyth's midfield and give them as little space and time as possible, this will be key to winning the match.

Yacine Brahimi and Memphis Depay will look to move wide when in possession, both have the ability to run at the opposition and will look to move inside at times and take the opportunity to shoot and link with Alcacer they both have the pace and movement to make runs beyond Alcacer in the centre forward positions, we are playing a very fluid system and will not just be looking to throw the ball into the box at every opportunity so their movment, pace and runs into the channels will be crucial in creating space and chances during the 90 minutes. When Depay and Brahimi do move inside, Darmian and Bernat will look to provide the outlet wide with overlapping runs.

Alcacer will play as the centre forward for us today, his pace, movement and energy suits the change in the way we are going to play, he will look to roam across the pitch, dragging defenders out of position which will leave space for the other attackers and our midfield to benefit from, as stated previously in the tactics he is part of the fluid front 5 we are playing with today so will pop in different areas of the pitch on occasion, we are not just going to throw the ball into the box at every opportunity so his running of the channels and his technical ability are crucial in the way we want to play.

Substitutions: Adnan Januzaj for Yacine Brahimi on 70 minutes, switch to a midfield diamond, and look to keep the ball and be more patient in possession, the fullbacks Darmian and Bernat must now push higher up the pitch to provide the width

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

-------------------Tielemans--------------Thiago-----------------

--------------------------------Januzaj-----------------------------

------------------Depay---------------Alcacer---------------------


Captain: Bonucci
Freekicks: Thiago
Penalties: Thiago

Basingstoke Tactics (4-2-3-1) vs Walkover United

---------------------------Cesar------------------
Johnson----Zouma----Marquez-----Kurzawa
--------------Carvalho-----Ramsey-------------
Gayle------------------------------------Boetius
-------------------Milik--------Berbatov----------

Subs: Fabianski, Grimaldo, Reyes, Kramer, Kallstrom

Captain - Marquez
Vice - Cesar
All FKs & Corners - Ramsey

Press high, take control of the midfield and get at Colchester and test their non existent team. We won't worry too much about their game plan, looking to play our own game but making slight adjustments if necessary, but it shouldn't affect us too much as our FBs can match him and if we do drop deep our MF three is full of energy to cover the extra ground in MF.

GK - Standard stuff, he's a great shot stopper so needs to concentrate on his organisation skills and commanding of his area.

Full backs - Both are great athletes who can get up and down a lot. I want to see them both using their pace, stamina and power to get forward at every given opportunity. They're important for us to stretch the opposition allowing us more space in the middle where our dangerman can operate. They will be looking for the ball all the time. Vital to stretch the opposition.

CBs - Zouma to play at the 'first knock defender', meaning he will be the one attacking the ball when it comes into the defence and generally going up against the attackers. This suits his game plan as he's a physical specimen and aggressive to match. Marquez will play a more reserved role, but equally important. He will be calling the line - we will be playing with a high line as we have the energy in the middle and the pace to recover if the line is beaten - and reading the game aiming to be able to cover the rest of the defence at the right times. These two are a greatly balanced defence, and compliment each other perfectly and could be one of the best partnerships around in seasons to come.

Carvalho - Huge role in todays game plan. He's a player no-one will want to come up against and I'm looking to him to disrupt the oppositions rhymth. When the FBs are back in position he will be rampant in the MF, protecting the back 4. When the FBs are back he will drop into the defence and offer them support in numbers as he has all the attributes to play there. His energy levels will be vital for us.

Ramsey - Gets to play his natural game today. He will dictate the play from deep often and will play as a more traditional box to box CM, almost like he's playing in a 4-4-2, just with Carvalho slightly behind him. It's important that if Carvalho drops into defence Ramsey makes sure he's protecting the defence, but it's his natural game to sit from deep first and attack when the time is right, so we should be tough to break down, especially given his incredible energy levels which should make it extremely tough for the opposition to play the ball in the middle, especially with our high line. When the time comes he can break forward at a decent speed and he has a knack of popping up at the right time to get important goals. Essentially the midfield energy levels and intelligence are vital today, as it will give us a solid foundation whilst also allowing us to get numbers forward to trouble the opposition.

Gnabry and Gayle - Key role today as they are going to be our main outlets for the midfield, aside from the full backs. Whilst both have license to drift inside or swap wings, basically looking for weaknesses in the opposition defence, they still have defensive duties to perform. So it's important they keep an eye on each other and make sure between them both flanks are covered and they are willing to track back and help the defence.

Berbatov & Milik - Just to play their natural game today. Bring players into the game with his good hold up play and look to attack the box at the vital times as he is known for. Get close to each other and form a good partnership.

Week 15

Fishguard Sports
Captain: Ryan
Corners: Halilovic (Andersen)/Suarez (Tankovic)
Free kicks: Halilovic (Andersen)/Suarez (Tankovic)
Pens: Vietto

-----------------------------------Ryan
Meunier-------van Beek----------------Aké---------------Günter
---------------------------------Hendrix
----------------------------------------------Samper
------------------------------Gaudino
-------Halilovic--------------------Vietto------------Denís Suárez

Starting: Ryan, Meunier, van Beek, Aké, Günter , Hendrix, Samper, Gaudino, Halilovic, Vietto, Denís Suárez
Subs: van der Sar, Bazoer, Scholl, Ödegaard, Andersen, Tankovic



The first point to make about the players I have selected for this evening’s game is that they are all extremely comfortable on the ball. It is essential that this is the case as physically we are not the strongest team, but in terms of technical ability we have much quality.

In my opinion the position of defensive midfield is the key to all I want to achieve. For parts of the game Jorrit Hendrix will fill this position, but for stretches of the game it will be Sergi Samper – this I will explain below. As touched upon we do not possess an ‘enforcer style’ defensive midfielder, however instead we possess two players who are equally excellent at intercepting opposition passes and quickly recycling the ball, doing both with unequalled composure.

Now the question is; why do I need two players who can play at DM?

I’m going to play what appears to be a standard back four, with Hendrix sat in front of the two centre backs. However, whilst Meunier, van Beek and Ake will need to follow a ‘defence first mentality’ I am going to use Gunter for far more offensive purposes.

When Gunter is advanced I will move Hendrix into the LCB position, with Samper becoming the DM, and Nathan Ake coving LB for the absent Christian Gunter.

Gunter has licence to combine with Suarez to terrorise the right hand side of Taiwan’s defence. Both players have blistering acceleration, searing pace and the aim is to concentrate on exposing any weaknesses on that side of the pitch time and time again. I really want to stretch the right hand side of their defence by using the pace of Gunter down the line, allowing Suarez to cut in and do some serious damage. From there Suarez has a) licence to go at goal himself b) look to combine with Vietto to create goal scoring opportunities.

This all means that I can hammer their right sided defence but remain with 4 defenders and a defensive midfielder at all times.

When we are defending and Gunter is back in position then Hendrix as DM will have both Samper and Gaudino as outlets ahead of him, when Samper is playing at DM then he has Gaudino or the Gunter/Suarez combo as his main forward outlets (see notes on Halilovic also).

However, Samper or Hendrix can also play backwards if necessary as all of the defenders are happy to be on the ball as we look to recycle and concentrate on looking to get the ball to our left hand side and back up the pitch.

At some point Taiwan will have to react to our relentless torture of the right hand side of their defence. At which stage, we’ll look to bring Halilovic more into play. Whilst at times Halilovic will appear to be a spare leg, this is far from the truth. If Taiwan try to cover the weakness in their right – then I’ll want to see beautifully weighted long balls from Hendrix or Samper over to Halilovic on our right hand side and he can cut inside and go direct towards the goal at pace looking for quick 1-2’s with Vietto and Suarez to cause absolute mayhem in the Taiwan third. A box of tricks, lots of energy and screaming pace – he’s the threat that they won’t see coming.

Gaudino is young (like the rest of our team) but he’s extremely composed for his age, and he has the important job of making sure that Hendrix/Samper have a forward option to play the ball whenever possible. He can then look to play Gunter in, or look for a killer through ball into Vietto or Suarez. He can also defend well, so if we’re becoming swamped then he can provide support to Samper.

Whilst Vietto is playing as CF he is equally known as a player who can play behind the main forward, which is good – as he’s prepared to drop deep if we’re losing the midfield battle, and with Suarez cutting in from the left hand side and Halilovic cutting in from the right hand side he’s not always going to be the most advanced player. However, when Gunter/Suarez – or Halilovic are on the attack – he can leave waste to the opponent’s defensive midfielder and put immediate pressure on the centre backs, who best not be caught ball watching as Suarez/Halilovic close in on them. Vietto is also well known for his goal scoring efforts outside the penalty box as well as close range, and I am happy to encourage him to do this if he thinks that he is in prime position to do so. Vietto also combines exceptionally well with players around him i.e. Suarez and Halilovic, so expect lots of clever movement, quick tidy interplay as we look to take apart the Taiwan defence.

Subs: 80th Minute, Tankovic on for Denis Suarez, Andersen on for Halilovic, Odegaard on for Gaudino

take Bazoer off the bench - too many subs

FL FART vs Notts County


------------------------1. Jefferson

15. Carvajal---4. Rami---5. Albiol---3. Armero

----------19. Cambiasso--22. Kondogbia

16. Bakkali-------8. Wijnaldum-------21. Piazon

-----------------------9. Morata

SUBS:
2. Amat
10. Ronaldinho
11. Hernandez
12. Matthews
23. Pugliese

*******************

Overview: We've been slaughtered by injuries this week, with Yaya Toure, new signing Ross Barkley, Frank Lampard and Demba Ba all missing out. I've still managed to get a well-balanced 4-2-3-1 out though and hopefully we'll pose Notts County some problems in this dead rubber.

Our general game plan is fairly standard for Fart - we have a good solid back line who will stay back in a tight and compact shape, protected by a strong midfield spine, looking to win the ball in our own half before getting it forward quickly, marauding forwards with our prodigious pace and power on the flanks and up front. We're not a hoof-ball team - I'd like us to move the ball from back to front with quick and snappy passes, one-twos and lay-offs along the ground rather than lumping it up - although Morata is strong in the air so the long ball is an option if we're desperate.

*******************

Keeper - Jefferson
He'll be asked to keep things simple today. No sweeping or anything daft like that. Brazil's #1 will save whatever would go in the goal, and distribute it short or with a quick throw to the flanks or Toure.

Full backs: Carvajal and Armero
Same story - both are quick and dynamic and will tuck in alongside the centre halves in defence to keep things tight before springing forward at pace and getting round our wingers when they tuck inside. They have the gas to get up and down all match long.

Centre backs: Rami and Albiol
Both CBs are excellent all-rounders, good in the air and comfortable on the ball, both strong and quick. Rami is a born leader, physically immense and not afraid to scream his head off to keep his back line organised. The CBs will be asked to defend fairly deep to protect against the ball in behind; the full backs and DMs will be tasked with closing down the wingers aggressively and spotting and blocking off any gaps in front of our defence that Notts County might look to exploit before banging forward on the counter. The centre halves will distribute the ball quickly to our wide players and Wijnaldum forward players on the counter.

Central midfield: Cambiasso and Kondogbia
Serious defensive solidity in the Fart midfield today. Cambiasso will do his usual thing, bustling across the defensive line, closing down space and being a terrier in the tackle. He'll keep possession ticking with sensible ball use and will keep his positional discipline to make interceptions in our own half before offloading the ball to a more forward-thinking colleague - Wijnaldum, the full backs or wide men primarily. Kondogbia is a master of interceptions and is a terrifying physical presence. When the full backs bomb on Kondogbia will drop back into a back 3 and will play as the sweeper between Rami and Albiol. Cambiasso will continue to prowl in front.

Wingers: Bakkali and Piazon
Both wingers are quick, direct and tricky, and I'm letting them interchange at will to confuse the Notts County defence and pull them out of shape all along their back line. Piazon and Bakkali are both creative playmakers as well as wingers who will look to play balls in to Morata's and Wijnaldum's feet for the one-two, but they're also quick and have great energy so can get round the back of the Notts County defence and drill in low balls and cutbacks, or they can drive at the defence and cause them problems in their own right. The left-sided winger will cut in and go for goal more often, putting the Notts County right back on his weaker side while Morata pulls wide to drag the centre half out of position, leaving the left-sided winger with a gap to attack. The winger is then free to go for goal with his stronger right foot. The right-sided winger will be more of a traditional winger, looking to cut inside less and get round the back more (meaning Carvajal at right back can stay back and defend a bit more than Armero rather than constantly looking to overlap). When the right winger does drift inside I'll look for him to play one-twos with Wijnaldum and to thread balls through to Morata who will look to stretch the Notts County defence.

In the hole: Wijnaldum
A quick, clever and powerful player, Wijnaldum has it all; I'm looking for him to run the show at #10 today, playing through balls for Morata and the wingers as they cut inside. Morata will play on the shoulder and run the channels giving Wijnaldum more room to operate in between the Notts County defence and midfield; he's got a good shot on him and his decision making skills are excellent so I'm giving him a free role to act as a playmaker or a second striker as he sees fit. In other words, he has licence to create and to shoot at will.

Up front: Morata
Morata will do his normal thing - being big, strong and a handful for defenders. He'll look to run the channels and pull his centre half wide, meaning that the wingers can drive inside into the gap. Morata will look to put the defence on the back foot as much as possible to free up space for Wijnaldum and the wingers; he'll be on the end of any crosses and he'll be there to poach any spilled shots. Wijnaldum has the guile to lay plenty of chances on for Morata and Morata has the all-round game to take the chances with either foot or his head.

Captain: Rami
Free kicks: Wijnaldum
Penalties: Wijnaldum
Corners: Wijnaldum

*******************

IF WINNING:
Armero off for Matthews, 75 mins - Like for like, although Matthews is less offensive-minded than Armero and will be a bit more solid defensively.

Bakkali off for Pugliese, 75 mins - Wijnaldum moves to RW and Pugliese drops into central midfield just ahead of Pugliese and Kondogbia. More solidity throughout the team and we look to soak up pressure and hit them on the counter even more.

Morata off for Hernandez, 80 mins - Like for like to save tired legs.

*******************

IF LOSING/DRAWING:

Cambiasso off for Ronaldinho, 70 mins - Wijnaldum drops back to play as a deeper-lying playmaker and Ronaldinho takes up the creative mantle behind the striker. Ronaldinho takes over FK and penalty duties.

Bakkali off for Hernandez, 80 mins - we go 4-1-3-2 as follows:

------------------------1. Jefferson

15. Carvajal---4. Rami---5. Albiol---3. Armero

----------------------22. Kondogbia

8. Wijnaldum----10. Ronaldinho----21. Piazon

---------------9. Morata---11. Hernandez

We look to get the ball forward quicker and really throw the kitchen sink.

PEACE

Tactics vs FL Fart


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

Darmian---------Bonucci-----------Manolas----------Bernat

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

------------------Thiago------------Tielemans--------------------

Brahimi------------------------------------------------------Depay

-------------------------------Alcacer--------------------------------

subs: Rugani, Ledson, Meyer, Ibe, Bonazzoli

Game plan: our plan today is to go at Fart from the off,our last game of the season against the title faves, everyone will be fired up and raring to go. We will look to press high up the pitch and condense the space in the midfield. Successful pressing is dependant on group understanding, collective perception of ball, opponent and team mate, and a massive amount of hunger and desire to have the ball. It isn’t possible to press for 90 minutes. We will have to pick our times wisely in order to do it successfully. If our players are tracking back or not close enough to the ball it isn't sensible to press the ball, we will look to capitalise on poor passes by the opposition or when a player is facing his own goal or has his head down when receiving the ball, at these times to opposition player does not have a full view of the pitch and cannot pick a forward pass.

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

In Possession

------------------------Bonucci-------Manolas------------------

Darmian------------------Iturraspe--------------------Bernat

-----------------Thiago-------------------Tielemans------------

Brahimi------------------------------------------------------Depay

----------------------------------Alcacer-----------------------------

out of possession

Darmian-----------Bonucci-------Manolas-----------Bernat

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

Brahimi----------Thiago------------Tielemans---------Depay

---------------------------------Alcacer----------------------------------

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

Defence: as has been spoken about in the game plan section, the full backs will look to push up the field when we are in possession creating the multiple lines across the pitch which is the basis of our possession philosophy. The central defenders will look to stay close to one another when out of possession, the full backs will also tuck in leaving little room in the centre of the pitch as Fart will look to do most of their attacking through the middle, while the midfield and attack will cover the defence of the wide areas, this is not the specific job of one player as we are playing in a fluid system, it will be whoever is available to do the job at that point in time, our players have great discipline and concentration to perform in this system.

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

Thiago and Tielemans will get up and down the pitch throughout, both are very quick and very creative and can carry the ball. Both will look to move the ball quickly, as will the whole team, we will play with a high tempo throughout the game not giving Fart any breathing space, without the ball they will look to pressurise the opposition in the centre of the pitch, but as spoken of earlier, only when it is sensible, no point doing it willy nilly and being picked off, we need to be very wary of the runs and movement of Fart's midfield and give them as little space and time as possible, this will be key to winning the match.

Yacine Brahimi and Memphis Depay will look to move wide when in possession, both have the ability to run at the opposition and will look to move inside at times and take the opportunity to shoot and link with Alcacer they both have the pace and movement to make runs beyond Alcacer in the centre forward positions, we are playing a very fluid system and will not just be looking to throw the ball into the box at every opportunity so their movment, pace and runs into the channels will be crucial in creating space and chances during the 90 minutes. When Depay and Brahimi do move inside, Darmian and Bernat will look to provide the outlet wide with overlapping runs.

Alcacer will play as the centre forward for us today, his pace, movement and energy suits the change in the way we are going to play, he will look to roam across the pitch, dragging defenders out of position which will leave space for the other attackers and our midfield to benefit from, as stated previously in the tactics he is part of the fluid front 5 we are playing with today so will pop in different areas of the pitch on occasion, we are not just going to throw the ball into the box at every opportunity so his running of the channels and his technical ability are crucial in the way we want to play.

Substitutions: Max Meyer for Yacine Brahimi on 70 minutes, switch to a midfield diamond, and look to keep the ball and be more patient in possession, the fullbacks Darmian and Bernat must now push higher up the pitch to provide the width

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

-------------------Tielemans--------------Thiago-----------------

--------------------------------Meyer-----------------------------

------------------Depay---------------Alcacer---------------------


Captain: Bonucci
Freekicks: Thiago
Penalties: Thiago

Just realised on my 2nd winning sub - "Pugliese drops into central midfield just ahead of Pugliese and Kondogbia" - should read "...just ahead of Cambiasso and Kondogbia."

TAIWAN

4-2-3-1

_______________________Navas____________________
Coleman_______Musacchio____Demichelis____Kolasinac
________________Matic________Alonso______________
Bellarabi________________Totti_____________Naismith
_______________________Drmic____________________
SUBS: De Sanctis, Knoche, Barry, Brandt, Hahn

Captain: Francesco Totti
Right free-kicks: Francesco Totti
Left free-kicks: Francesco Totti
Penalties: Xabi Alonso
Right corners: Xabi Alonso
Left corners: Xabi Alonso

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

Totti - Matic - Alonso - Naismith
Drmic - Bellarabi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Blyth vs Basingstoke

....................Reina...................
......De Rossi..Barzagli..Rojo...
Maggio.....Gerrard..Cirigliano.....Robinson
.....................Insigne........................
.................Zaza......Pellé.................

Subs: Gordon, Maldini, Essien, Lambert, Gauld

Captain: De Rossi
Free Kicks: Insigne/Gerrard
Corners: Insigne/Gerrard
Pens: Gerrard

General:
Final game of an eventful season, Basingstoke are a very well organised unit and this could prove to be a tough game as we go in search of an unexpected league title. A draw is all that's needed but as always Blyth will go out with a win in mind. back to our tried and tested 3-5-2 as we look to try and control the midfield and take the sting out of the game...simple balls nothing risky but go for it if the attacks on is the order of they day...6 Italians in our side so we're well drilled in time wasting and seeing out a result. Injuries have hit our defence hard this week side-lining Vlaar,Romagnoli and De Sciglio so the defence looks makeshift but is incredibly strong still.

Reina - Still a top 'keeper....will keep it calm and controlled at the back, we have 3 CB's so no need for any crazy rushing out antics, will just be his usual top class shot-stopping self. With the ball no need to up the tempo, have plenty of players comfortable on the ball for easy throw outs/short passes. But if the opportunity of a quick break is on Pellé and Zaza are two big units uptop for a direct ball.

The Defence
Bit of a shake up after the afore mentioned injury crisis. Barzagli will act as the "libero" today, excellent reader of the game and good on the ball will look to get things moving with short sharp passes always forwards nothing risky across the back line. As sweeper will step forwards when we have the ball as De Rossi joins the midfield, under pressure they both drop back and Barzagli takes responsibility of the secondary balls or late midfield runs. De Rossi has played CB numerous times for the Azzurri, hard as nails and strong in the tackle but with an eye for a pass, will be an asset further back as he man marks one of Basingstoke's strikers, in possession he has the ability to mix it up with crisp short passes and the "quarterback style" Hollywood passes. When we have the ball he will push into midfield giving us a central 3 as Barzagli covers him. Rojo another tough customer completes our rugged defence, naturally attacking but asked today to be more disciplined he will stay back marking Basingstoke's second striker, if they play one up top then he watches the AM. as always all 3 men will go up for set-pieces. Maggio/Robinson...Maggio is an experienced player with great pace and a good solid engine enabling him to bomb up and down the line providing much needed width and crosses for our front men. Robinson Liverpool youth product and former Wolf comes in for his debut another player full of running. Big strong and loves a crunching tackle, will be told not to dive in today as we look to minimize risk and keep things tight, Both men will show their winger or wing back (depending on Baggy's formation) the line don't dive in but jockey them forcing a cross or a backward pass allowing us to once again close up into tight ranks. Both men will sit for set-pieces covering the centre backs advance

Gerrard/Cirigliano - Stevie G is another battle hardened veteran, will be tasked with being the heart beat of the team today controlling the midfield and spreading the ball about, should be able to link well De Rossi behind him and Lorenzo ahead of him. Defensive duties are relatively light as he will be given the freedom to get forwards and time his legendary late surging runs to get in on the action or chance his arm from distance. Without the ball he tucks in alongside Chilli as we become compact through the middle.
Cirigliano - Chilli is your traditional Argentinian "Cinco" the number 5 likened to Mascherano but I see him more like Banega...will sit infront of the defence intercepting passes rather then smashing into forwards, but is incredibly comfortable on the ball, young quick and two footed linked to several of Europe's top clubs and Man Utd, Chilli will be the defensive shield when we don't have the ball, but when we do have it will keep things nice and tidy as we take the sting out of the game with little neat passing triangles (other shapes are available) another man who will sit at set-pieces as we always have 3 men back to cover any counter-attacks by Basingstoke.

Insigne - My little Scugnizzo and the leagues top assister will be the #10 today, possibly our only contender for the team of the season, a man for the big occasion and none come bigger than a title decider. Will look to drop deep for the ball and surge forwards looking for the killer pass or having a go when it's on. with our 2 strikers both 6ft+ he should get a fair few lay offs to put that wand of a right boot through.

Zaza/Pellé - Zaza making the final appearance of his loan spell and Pellé making his debut, both are big strong units but both have great technique and ball control, not your usual kind of target men that stay static, full of moving as they look to bully Baggy's defence and pull them out of position creating space for Lorenzo and Gerrard to exploit. Maggio and Robinson are both good at getting forwards banging in crosses so our strikers should have a field day. As always we press hard from the front and I see no reason to change that today.

Subs:

Winning or drawing at 75 mins
This potential result will see us win the league so we look to hang onto it slow the game down and see it out.
Essien > Zaza...Essien goes CM effectively meaning Pellé is a lone striker and we go 3-6-1 packing the middle and taking atleast a point.

Losing at 75
Kitchen sink time as we go all out attack gung-ho direct football
Lambert > Robinson
..................Reina..............
Maggio...De Rossi..Barzagli....Rojo
...........Gerrard....Cirigliano........
....................Insigne..............
.........Zaza......Pellé.....Lambert

3 central strikers attacking everything that comes into box.....Maggio and Rojo lose all defensive duties as we risk it all on a late goal or two

The end

Last weeks tactics, with changes for injuries:

Immobile in for Wilson
Green in for robben

Barcelona team and tactics:

-----------------------Iralzoz------------------------
de Marcos —San Jose---Laporte----Balenzagia

-------------------Gabi---------Tiago--------------------

Deulofeu----------Klaassen--------------Tello

---------------------------Unal-------------------------------

Subs:
Distin, Jonathan, Dyer, Aduriz, Bamford

Captain: Gabi
Freekicks: Gabi
Pens: Gabi
Corners: Gabi

Yes Gabi is a god!


Game Plan:
Today we intend on playing a game of keep ball and quick 1, 2’s with pace when the opposition come and get the ball off us and get break forward quickly.

Defence:
Our back five all play in La Liga all of them play for Athletic Bilbao and all know each other well. Iralzoz will be a commanding presence at the back. He will come and collect every ball that comes in from height, but should the element of doubt happen I want him to punch the ball out of the box as far as possible. He will also spread himself and make himself big when he gets into one on one’s with the opposition players.

de Marcos and Balenzagia are to get the ball off Iralzoz or our Centre backs and play neat 1, 2’s with our wingers and get the ball down the field as quickly as possible. When getting down to the attacking third of the pitch, get balls into the box and in for our creative players to get on the end of. When off the ball press the opposition players off the ball and tackles are welcome to stop balls getting into the box. Right should Gabi head forward these two will stay back in our half and not venture forward, just to protect us at on the wings against counter attacks.


San Jose and Laporte are to get the ball down and play it forward to our CM and FB’s and Wingers. When off the ball press the opposition’s front players off the ball and tackles are welcome to stop the opposition players from getting through on our goal. San Jose will win everything in the air and Laporte just needs to get the ball out of the box, even to Row Z if needs be.

Midfield:
Tiago will be the one sitting this week and will put last ditch tackles in to stop the opposition players getting a run into our box. When on the ball with his vision Tiago will pick out our more creative players with his passes. Gabi will be the legs going forward and will collect the ball from deep and get forward playing cute but quick 1, 2’s with our more forward thinking players. Tiago and Gabi are also encouraged to press the opposition off the ball. Should our full backs head forward Gabi will not be allowed to head forward and Tiago will slot in between our CB’s to avoid been done on the counter attack. However, when our full backs are back he’ll just sit in front of our CB’s.

Klaassen, Deulofeu and Tello will look to get beyond our strikers and get goals from breaking from deep. All three will have shots at the opposition goal as well from in or outside the box. But coming from deep they’ll also get the ball off our defensive players and break forward quickly with the pace they all have. When off the ball we welcome pressing and helping our defensive players against the opposition.

Unal:
He’ll come deep looking for the ball and when he does that the three behind him will be busting a vessel to get into the box. We also want him to get into the box and score goals when the ball comes to him in the box. When off the ball we want him hounding the life out of the opposition defenders and get the ball off them.

Subs:
Dyer on for Deulofeu (65 mins)
Jonathan on for Tiago (70 mins)
Aduriz on for Unal (75 mins)

Basingstoke Tactics (4-2-3-1) vs Mafia FC

---------------------------Cesar------------------
Johnson-----Reyes----Marquez-----Grimaldo
--------------Carvalho-----Vilhena-------------
Gnabry--------------Quintero--------------Boetius
-------------------------Milik------------------

Subs: Fabianski, Bellerin, Zouma, Kramer, Kallstrom

Captain - Marquez
Vice - Cesar
All FKs & Corners - Quintero

Today the pressure is off, we don't care whether or not we play in div one or div two and all the impotus is on Tino and his side whilst they try to clinch the championship. We have an extremely young, talented and hungry team here today, being marshalled by the experience of Cesar and Marquez, which I feel could be a great combition. I want the players to fly out of the blocks, playing at a high intensity and no fear against an ageing Blyth side and really use our quality in the midfield to get on top, take control and get at them. Blyth have a midfield of nearly men in De Rossi and Gerrard, who aren't exactly young either. Our midfield is young, mobile and fearless and I want them to prey on the oppositions nerves and not let them get into the game. We will play our usual game, with a high line helping us press in the midfield, which will play into our young hands and stop Gerrard getting any time on the ball to spread the play. Going forward we have a natural goalscorer through the middle who is in great form and two very direct, powerful, skillful players outwide who will always be looking to get at Blyth. Overall I think the balance, energy and talent we have will be enough to get us the win.

GK - Standard stuff, he's a great shot stopper so needs to concentrate on his organisation skills and commanding of his area.

Full backs - Both are great athletes who can get up and down a lot. I want to see them both using their pace, stamina and power to get forward at every given opportunity. They're important for us to stretch the opposition allowing us more space in the middle where our dangerman can operate. They will be looking for the ball all the time. Vital to stretch the opposition.

CBs - Reyes to play at the 'first knock defender', meaning he will be the one attacking the ball when it comes into the defence and generally going up against the attackers. Marquez will play a more reserved role, but equally important. He will be calling the line - we will be playing with a high line as we have the energy in the middle and the pace to recover if the line is beaten - and reading the game aiming to be able to cover the rest of the defence at the right times. These two are a greatly balanced defence, and compliment each other perfectly and could be one of the best partnerships around in seasons to come. The defence should not be afraid to drop 10 yards if necessary - it shouldn't come to it given Marquez's reading of the game and the pace of the others, but if we need to drop the midfield has enough energy to compensate for the extra ground needed to cover.

Carvalho - Huge role in todays game plan. He's a player no-one will want to come up against and I'm looking to him to disrupt the oppositions rhymth. When the FBs are back in position he will be rampant in the MF, protecting the back 4. When the FBs are back he will drop into the defence and offer them support in numbers as he has all the attributes to play there. His energy levels will be vital for us.

Vilhena - Gets to play his natural game today. He will dictate the play from deep often and will play as a more traditional box to box CM, almost like he's playing in a 4-4-2, just with Carvalho slightly behind him. It's important that if Carvalho drops into defence Vilhena makes sure he's protecting the defence, but it's his natural game to sit from deep first and attack when the time is right, so we should be tough to break down, especially given his incredible energy levels which should make it extremely tough for the opposition to play the ball in the middle, especially with our high line. When the time comes he can break forward at a decent speed and he has a knack of popping up at the right time to get important goals. Essentially the midfield energy levels and intelligence are vital today, as it will give us a solid foundation whilst also allowing us to get numbers forward to trouble the opposition.

Gnabry and Boetius - Key role today as they are going to be our main outlets for the midfield, aside from the full backs. Whilst both have license to drift inside or swap wings, basically looking for weaknesses in the opposition defence, they still have defensive duties to perform. So it's important they keep an eye on each other and make sure between them both flanks are covered and they are willing to track back and help the defence.

Quintero - Another opportunity for him to show what he can do on a huge scale today. He will have the desire to truly announce his arrival in the league and what better way to do it than to engineer a win against the league leaders? He will be directly against De Rossi and Gerrard, which will be no easy challenge, but one he'll thrive on. I want him to aim more for Gerrard, to stop Gerrard getting on the ball as he's got a good range of passing, but also when we have the ball Gerrards defensive game is weak, so it's something he can exploit. When he has the ball he can do it all - pick passes, beat men or hit them from distance. This variation should make him too much for Gerrard as it makes him unpredictable and impossible to shoehorn.

Milik - Just to play his natural game today. Bring players into the game with his good hold up play and look to attack the box at the vital times as he is known for.

Subs - 70 mins

Kramer & Bellerin for Carvalho & Johnson - like for like swaps to keep our energy levels up