---------------------- DeGea --------------------
P.Lahm --- J.Stones --- Bonucci --- Umtiti
-------------- Lemina ---- Gomes -------------
Gabigol ------------ Pogba ---------- Neymar
---------------------- Dybala --------------------
Butland, Boateng, Diawara, Dele Alli, Pjaca, Sanchez, Aguero
A cup game v a tough side, a few changes but really like for like, so same system, same quick play on the deck and ball to feet..
In goal De Gea, a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, shouting instructions to his defenders. Out very quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.
Bonucci in beside Stones today, on this occassion Bonucci will man mark the CF. Bonucci is quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, powerfully built so marking the CF should be no trouble as he has to man up to him, will keep him away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Stones alongside is fantastic in the air, so will mark any other big players that come into our danger area, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger. Both are comfortable on the ball and can bring it out from defence but when in no danger and no erseing about with it, also both go up for corners and are a huge threat as the two fullbacks and Lemina hang back.
Lahm and Umtiti at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Lahm and Umtiti are perfect for this . They will look to keep them away from shooting areas where is dangerous in any position. This is a vital clash in this game. They will be up against quality wingers so look to force him away from goal and backwards. I want them to attack when in no danger so time these runs perfectly. One sits back a bit and allowing the other to attack, this is keeping a 3 at the back at all times. Their marking abilities are sound, both have good positional sense and very quick, do not make rash desicions and will stay on their feet. Both FBs can attack. When one goes the other stays as they look to make an extra man down the flank for our wingers to cut inside or play neat one twos to free the wingers up as there fullbacks get dragged out of position.
Lemina in for the injured Busquets to stop the AM getting the ball from midfield to the striker, he must be right on top of him looking to close him down at the quickest opportunity, let him dictate play and there striker will get plenty chances, we must not let this happen. So quick and into him, fairly and stop this! Lemina himself will look to dictate from deep as he picks up from the defence and looks to drive us forward with precision passing. Gomes v the second most advanced midfielder much the same, but obvs when we have the ball he is allowed to move forward and push him back, Gomes should have a bit of time to look around him for the pass, So he will look to find his team mates with ease. Use his upper body strength to get him away from the player. Pass and move always look for the return pass. When they have then close down the CM, he will look to ping the ball about so get to him before that opportunity arises. We have put Pogba in a No.10 role or just slightly withdrawn No.10 against there DM he must be strong, Pogba is an all round fantastic midfielder, however he will look to take the DM on one v one drag him about open up spaces for others to drive into, with the ball at feet look to play quick one twos with those around him so he makes the runs into the box looking for that return ball that will get him in on goal. If the ball is played to him with his back to goal hold it up, draw the foul from the DM, if it doesnt come then look to lay it off, look to play the slide pass into Dybala. All three are good all round midfielders, But Lemina i want to sit in the hole with the two either side when defending.
Neymar and Gabigol are known for their creativity, speed, and technical ability and are fearless, explosive attacking midfielders who can change the game with a turn of pace or a dribble. More importantly both scorers of wonderful and important goals. Both technically excellent in limited areas, fast explosive acceleration during the first ten yards. Which more often than not takes them passed defenders and allows them to get into dangerous areas. Always play with there heads up looking for the runs of others to get the ball into there feet. When they have the ball look to stick close to fullbacks and stop them coming forward. Just track the fullbacks and use pace to get back and in around there faces to stop them becoming a threat. Always be looking for Pogba inside as the three make an awesome trio attack wise in behind Dybala and a scary proposition for the Pompey back line
Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. Dybala is surprisingly good in the air and two good feet, can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front four/five will be a threat today we must go for it and keep pace with the league leaders. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Neymar and Gabigol running into support. Pogba will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side
Captain - Lahm
Penalties - Dybala/Aguero
Free kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Subs:-
Losing
65 Mins - Aguero for Gomes, he goes up top with Dybala sitting just off his shoulder, Pogba drops in beside Lemina.
75 Mins - Sanchez for Gabigol a straight switch, fresh legs and a goal threat
85 Mins - Pjaca for Lahm - 3 at the back, Pjaca to the LW & Neymar goes up top 343
Winning -
75 Mins - Sanchez for Gabigol helps track back, Diawara for Gomes, a more defensive CM
80 Mins - Aguero for Dybala
Drawing -
70 Mins - D.Alli for Gomes, Pogba drops into CM, Aguero for Dybala, Sanchez for Gabigol triple change to have fresh legs and have a go
------------------Forster-------------------
Holding--van Dijk--Kompany--Denayer
Mahrez---N.Kante--Dembele---Draxler
--------------------Fekir--------------------
-----------------Lacazette-----------------
Pickford, Shaw, Benassi, Haddadi, Silva, Milik, Berahino
Forster behind the back four which is a solid defence, with the keeper shouting when he comes out for the ball, he will punch clear what he cant catch and look to release the ball early
Kompany takes the free role at the back, he sits spare whilst van Dijk picks up the CF. While van Dijk is picking up the CF, Kompany takes a step off him as he will be mindful of the CF if he gets away from van Dijk or indeed any other attacker that comes through. Both need to be strong in the defence, they cannot be bullied by the CF or any other attackers, although they are both powerful boys. van Dijk must make desicions quickly to where he has to be and not make rash desicions, that is where Kompany helps him. They attack all high balls, they must stick tight as we are playing two attacking fullbacks, Both top class with the ball, so if they are feeling comfortable then move out with the ball.
Holding and Denyaer are in for their defensive attributes as we will be up agianst it v Ronaldo & Co, both are allowed to attack but will be sporadic.
I really want a solid back four today as Arsenals attack is unbelievably good, so defend the lines dont let anyone passed without at least challenging them. Make it as difficult as possible to get passed them. Hold firma nd stay tall, both strong and young so keeping them back should be ok. They can go forward but look to pass it to our midfield first and foremost and dont get too carried away.
We are going to look and play a compact midfield to reduce the time they have on the ball. Dembele and Kante will be sitting in with either making the occassional run forward, one of them must sit in at all times. I want them to break their attack up very quickly and get the ball forward or out to our fullbacks. Kante takes up the main role of marking there attacking midfielder. He is a very in your face type character and will hunt you down very quickly as is Dembele so there midfielders wont have much time on the ball. Both very powerful players in the centre of my midfield.
Mahrez and Draxler will play with freedom to attack and support Fekir and Lacazette,they have a lot of skill so can pick these players out easily when we break forward and as we break forward they can cut inside and allow our fullbacks to get beyond them to put in the cross, it may seem as if we are being withdrawn today but with cover from the fullbacks the wingers have a little more freedom to break forward. Mahrez and Draxler will push wide to stop there fullbacks if needed. Close control from our midfield pass quickly and look to get around there players. Our fullbacks are important today as midfielders when we attack, we need lots of energy and drive from them.
Fekir will be the link that will get the ball from midfield to attack, his passing is sublime. Will have his head up at all times and pick team mates out easily breaking down there defensive lines with ease, quick one touch passing to the front three and they will be in on goal very quickly. If he has to drop deep to get possession of the ball then so be it, he has the freedom to do so. Links very well with Lacazette
Lacazette is a fantastic outlet up front as he can not only take players on with his pace but is strong enough to hold off players to allow others to come in and support, especially Fekir who will be up in support a lot, always looking to go for goal and two good feet, with support from our fullbacks, Draxler and Mahrez also this is a very quick and powerul front line always driving forward and hopefully that defenders will fear. We must drive at them non stop, we have subs which we will use.
Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Lacazette
Free Kicks - Mahrez
Corners - Wingers
Substitutes
if we are losing Silva and Haddadi will come on for Fekir and Draxler on 65 minutes with Berahino coming on for Holding on 80 minutes and he will go up front
If we are winning then Benassi for Fekir and Milik for Lacazette on 75 Minutes
Drawing then Milik for Lacazette, Haddadi for Draxler and Silva for Fekir
the drawing subs on 70 minutes sorry I missed that bit
Injuries - Mertens, Hamsik, Vardy
-----------------------------------------Cech--------------------------------
Walker---------------Toprak------------Verthonghen-----------------Rose
---------------------------------------Carvalho----------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mario-------------------------------------------------------------------------Nolito
---------------------------------------Calhanoglu-------------------------------------------
----------------------------Depay------------------Rashford-----------------
Subs - Zieler, Ake, Young, Konoplyanka, Moutinho, Florenzi, Janssen
CAPTAIN - CECH
CK'S - CALHANOGLU
FK'S - CALHANOGLU
PENALTIES - RASHFORD
A cup game this week against rof so trying a different formation seeing as he has a lot of big names injured. This 41212 formation is solid in defence but also very attacking with 2 strikers up front and an AM playing behind them.
Defence
I got a world class keeper in goal so he will be hard to beat. The defence is well balanced. Toprak and Verthonghen are an excellent partnership and bring experience at the back. Toprak brings that old school no nonsense defending. Stay strong and if the opposition play 1 up front than stay close to him and not let him turn. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box.
Defence Mid
Carvalho
He will be ultra defensive mode, covering for our players when they are out of position and marking the oppo AM and strikers. Don't stray too far forward and if you have possession of the ball pass it to a teammate asap. Only job is to defend.
Wingers
Mario + Nolito
Giving these 2 a start this week. Nolito isn't yiur typical pacy winger, he is a very good dribbler and is very good at keeping hold of the ball. Play quick passes and try and carve open the oppo defence with intricate play. Be ready for the counter attack as and Mario are deadly on them. Mario will be more focused primarily on beating the left back on the outside and getting to the byline to get a decent cross in. Confuse the oppo left back by twisting and turning and you are also good at using your left foot so if you cut in and shoot you can. I want you both to help track back and help the full backs when they are in our half of the pitch.
Attack Mid
Calhanoglu
Shoot if you see a chance. Use your playmaking ability to create chances. Play quick passes with the players around you and try and find space inbetween the oppo players.
Strike
Depay + Rashford
I want you both to use your pace to try and beat the offside trap. Rashford, you have a lot of stamina so when the opposition CB'S have the ball I want you to close them down and pressure them. Try and bring other players into the game. Pass and move is the way to go. With two fast pacy strikers up front, we're bound to create chances on the counter.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Janssen for Rashford. Also bring on Konoplayanka for Nolito and Florenzi for Calhanoglu. Play a high line and try and get a goal.
Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take of Calhanoglu and put on Ake in CB and play 5atb ultra defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives. Janssen for Rashford aswell.
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Rashford off for Janssen
Calhanoglu off for Florenzi
Nolito off for Konoplyanka
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
5. Zabaleta — 3. Bailly — 4. Benatia — 6. Sandro
—————— 16. De Rossi —— 29. Xhaka
7. Mkhitaryan ————— 17. De Bruyne ————— 11. Reus
————————————— 9. Higuain
SUBS: 31. Begovic, 12. Smalling, 8. Coutinho, 38. Barry, 23. Eriksen, 39. Son, 49. Niang
Captain: Marco Reus
Corners: Kevin de Bruyne
Crossing free-kicks: Kevin de Bruyne
Shooting free-kicks: Marco Reus
Penalties: Marco Reus
We stick to a 4-2-3-1 counter attack and again a near full strength side with Mkhitaryan coming into the side bringing his tactical intelligence with him, helping with dominating the midfield alongside KDB and Reus. Up against a strong opposition team today in what is a crucial game for Aston Villa’s chances at getting a trophy we need a win and so we are very motivated, we expect the opposition to be looking to dominate, we usually play this way too, however with our greater experience and the pace on the break of our front 4 we're going to play more on the counter attack leaving very little space between the lines of midfield and defence when defending.
The advantage of the 4-2-3-1 formation in terms of counter attacking is it is very easy to change quickly from defence to attack and create superior number situations in the opposition half of the pitch with the 4 rows of players on the pitch, what is a 4-5-1 in defensive situations can very quickly become a 4-3-3 in attack.
The block of four of Benatia Bailly De Rossi and Xhaka will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. De Rossi and Xhaka will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line while Bailly will mark their striker tightly with Benatia sweeping behind if he does get through. KDB will come back in the defending phase to help win the ball back with the two midfielders.
Oblak will play in goal, his talents are obvious to anyone, fantastic shot stopper and very good coming off his line so he can sweep up any balls in behind and someone capable of wonder saves.
The first line of our formation is the defence, the full backs Zabaleta and Sandro are extremely fit and very strong in defence and tactically aware of their roles in this system which is crucial, they are to make the job of the wide attackers of the opposition as difficult as possible not allowing them to make runs in between themselves and the centre halves, keeping them as wide as possible and as far from goal as possible, good communication from the centre halves is crucial.
The two midfielders De Rossi and Xhaka are our second line of defence and attack, by playing two deeper lying players they can rotate, one of them will always be available for the ball when we're in possession and both are able to launch attacks quickly due to their passing ability, defensively they are to watch runs from the opposition midfield who will be dangerous, both are very tactically educated and comfortable playing this way. Xhaka will be tasked with pushing the team forwards in the attacking phase and arriving late in the box.
Our attacking midfield trio are absolutely crucial to the way we want to attack, KDB is somewhat free of defensive responsibility unless under pressure as both Mkhitaryan and Reus are very hard working and able to get up and down the pitch for 90 minutes, in defence it will become a 4-4-1-1 while the offensive ability and styles of Reus and Mkhitaryan means the formation automatically becomes a 4-3-3 when in possession. Their pace and intelligence in making runs will cause havoc for the the opposition defence and their records speak for themselves when creating and taking chances.
Higuain will play as the centre forward, his pace and energy will be crucial in pressurising the defensive midfielder of the opposition and he never stops running. When we obtain possession his first job is to get on the shoulder of the centre halves and make runs in behind and stretch the defence, this is crucial in creating gaps between the midfield and defence of the opposition for Reus, KDB and Mkhitaryan to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on Barry for KDB. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.
If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Coutinho for De Rossi. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Xhaka will drop back to DM to control the game while Coutinho and KDB will dominate from behind Higuain as well as adding an extra goal threat in a 4-1-4-1. Mkhitaryan on right and Reus goes to the left.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Son for KDB. Attacking 4-4-2 with Coutinho and Xhaka in the middle and Mkhitaryan on the right Coutinho on the left. Higuain and Son up front.
---------------------------Batalla-----------------------
---Piszczek-----Dragovic----Blind-----Hector-----
------------------Carvalho-----Wanyama------------
----------Marlos----------Gotze-------Pastore-----
----------------------------Icardi----------------------
Subs: Lovren, Gaya, Kranevitter, Witsel, A. Silva, Taison, Origi.
Game Plan: Cup game so we are not holding back against Liverpool. We are going to set up with our attacking game plan and really take the game to them. We will look to overload through the middle of the park and really work their midfielders defensively whilst our full backs bomb forward to create the width. We have our solid defensive base in midfield to help cover but we need to take the game to Liverpool and make this an exciting game.
Batalla makes his first start. Promising goalkeeper with plenty about him. A real test up against Liverpool's front men but it's crucial he plays his best game.
Piszczek and Hector are our 2 full backs. They are our width. They have the license to really push on down the flanks allowing both of Liverpool's wingers to track them and really pin them in. They need to be defensively sound and force their wingers as far away from the goal as possible and closing them down quickly to stop crosses coming in. But they need to be our width going forward whipping some dangerous crosses into the box from wide areas.
Dragovic and Blind will be our two centre backs. A mixture of strength and ball playing ability, it's important we stay sharp on their front man. They are likely to play with a nimble striker who has lightning pace, so they have to be positioned well to deal with him and restrict space for him to run in behind. Dragovic man marks, a powerful defender up against their front man. All of his tackles need to be firm but clean and he needs to let their forward know that he is in a game. He must be close to him at all times. Blind acts as the sweeper in this case. This is so he can position himself well for balls through our defensive line and so when he recovers possession, we can look to build from the back as he has a very good passing range and we can look to launch attacks quickly.
Carvalho and Wanyama are our base midfielders. These 2 are crucial to make sure we don't get split wide open when on the break. When our full backs move forward, they must drop in and cover for them so we don't leave space in our defence. They have plenty of rigidity in that pairing along with a lot of running ability and power. Their tackles need to be also firm and clean and they can not allow the man playing off the front of their main forward any space or time to pick passes and cause our defence trouble. Any midfield runners need to be picked up and marked tightly.
Marlos, Gotze and Pastore are our 3 more central attacking midfielders. We need to really look to overload through the middle and really make their midfielders work and get their legs running. When they have the ball deep in midfield, we press on them hard to make them rush passes. There has to be a fluidity and movement to make them difficult to pick up. Icardi is up front to link with them with his movement, one of them needs to be close to him, feeding off him so we can continue building our attacks and 2 of them need to be looking to make runs beyond Icardi to test the concentration of the midfield to see if they track. They need to look to pick up pockets of space in the midfield with a man over and play passes through gaps in their defence so we can get in behind. Looking wide for our full backs if we need the width.
Icardi is our front man, a typical number 9. He has plenty of support in behind him so he needs to be receiving the ball, continuing fluid attacking moves, being involved in the build up play and looking to be the end product at the end of it all. It's important that he links with the midfield and has plenty of movement making it tough for their defenders to pick him up and mark him. He needs to be on the end of our moves where possible and especially on the end of the crosses into the box.
Substitutions:
If winning:
Icardi Off - On Origi - Fresh legs up front to press the defence and looking to run in behind. (75 mins)
Marlos Off - On Witsel - Sitting in DM with Carvalho and Wanyama, making it tough for them to break us down. (75 mins)
Wanyama Off - On Kranevitter - Fresh legs in the midfield to do the running in the final 10 minutes. (80 mins)
If drawing:
Pastore Off - On Origi - Changing to a 4-2-2-2 so we can put their defence under more pressure. (70 mins)
Marlos Off - On Taison - Adding more dynamism and extravagant style to our attacking play in midfield. (70 mins)
Carvalho Off - On Lovren - Blind into DM, Lovren CB keeping an eye on their front man. (70 mins)
If losing:
Wanyama Off - On Origi - 4-1-3-2 formation, really going for broke going forward. (70 mins)
Piszczek Off - On Lovren - 3 CB's now, forcing an extra man forward for our attacks, 3-1-4-2 formation. (75 mins)
Hector Off - On Taison - Adding that dynamism and extravagant style to our attacking play as we go for it. (75 mins)
4-4-1-1 Total football
High tempo energetic football played at pace in attack and defence.
A compact 4-4-1-1 in defence that will be difficult to breakdown. Getting two lines behind the ball. Sane and Costa pressing in front of them. The opposition are missing their main striker, and so we push up, pressing high up the pitch.
When we attack, we get forward in numbers. One fb will be in line with the sitting cm, with the other fb bombing forward. Giving us numbers that can break forward at pace and overload Brum.
We have a midfield 4 full of energy, all offering attack and defence. One of the cms, will sit deep while the other attacks. We’ll look to get the ball wide, attack down the wings. Kroos who has played at dm for Real at times, in a box to box role dictating the play.
We get the ball forward as quickly as possible. Fbs and wingers doubling up and linking with Sane to work up the park and get the ball to Costa in the box.
When we lose possession, we hold a high, compact, defensive unit that narrows towards the play. Getting behind the ball. We let Brum have the ball in their own third. As soon as they look to play to a midfielder, or bring the ball forward themselves, Costa and Sane press from the front.
----------------- S.Rico
Danilo – Ramos – Elvedi - Ghoulam
Brozovic – Kroos – Vidal - Willian
--------------- L.Sane
---------------D.Costa
Subs. Bentley, Kurzawa, Bazoer, Strootman, Hazard, Correa, Oyarzabal
Defensive
Don’t let them play.
We look to press the opposition high up the pitch as soon as they look to play out from the back. We let their defenders have the ball, but as soon as it goes to their midfielders we are all over them. Costa blocking the pass to the cbs and a winger pressing the fb, with the team as a unit pushing up behind them in two banks of 4. Narrowing to the side of play.
Sane narrows to the side of play picking up any wide midfielders coming deep, while the opposite winger tucks inside to narrow our unit and keep us compact, and limiting the options they have to play out.
The midfield four is in a compact zig zag shape. The cm closest and the opposite winger sitting deeper. The closest winger and further cm away press. Allowing us to cover horizontal and vertical angles on the field, and cover space more effectively. Covering the high press with a further two mids behind. Give them no options to play through. Force them to make mistakes and take chances.
When the opposition do get the ball to the midfield, our 4 man midfield drops deeper. Keeping numbers behind the ball, pressing in our unit.
We aim to have 10 players behind the ball defending and keeping Brum high up the park at all times. Sane always looking to press the ball with two lines of 4 behind him. Defending in numbers, in a rigid compact unit that will be difficult to break through.
Attacking
As soon as we win the ball we look to get Kroos on the ball, use his passing to open up the opposition. Getting forward to our wingers and Sane as quickly as possible. Put the opposition under pressure. The trio are given freedom to take players on.
Use the pace of the trio to get them in behind where possible, Kroos and Brozovic will always be looking to play through balls or balls over the top. Vidal or Kroos looking to break forward and support.
The midfield should never be flat. Create as many lines as possible to increase the options we have in possession, and to create gaps in the opposition. Our wide attackers, and the attacking fb look to give us width and stretch the game.
Costa up top is always ready for a long diagonal to put him straight through on goal. We will vary our play going forward, looking to go direct if a ball is on.
Subs.
If drawing or winning after 65 mins bring on Hazard for Sane.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Correa for Brozovic. Super sub. Willian to rw. Correa lw.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Strootman for Vidal. Fresh energy.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Kurzawa for Brozovic. Willian rw. Kurzawa lw. Fresh pace.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Correa for Costa.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Hazard for Brozovic. 4-3-3. Willian to cm. Sane rw. Hazard lw.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Kurzawa for Ghoulam. More attacking.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Correa for Sane. Super sub.
--------------------Leno
Coleman—Ginter---Evans—Milner
--------------Dier-------Can
--------------------Mor
Moura---------Cavani--------Anderson
Caceres
McCarthy
Ramsey
Candreva
Hughes
Martinez
Bolasie
A younger and more energetic side has been picked for today. We feel that we combine an attacking threat featuring plenty of pace and width, with a defensive stronghold that will be difficult to break down.
We have plenty of experience in our two full back options today, with both consistently playing at a high standard. They will be given a license to bomb forward and support the attack, provided that they know that their respective wingers are being covered elsewhere.
I have chosen to partner Evans and Ginter today. I expect Evans to man mark their lone striker, limiting their chances by removing their snake’s head. Without him playing well they will not be able to create as many chances. Ginter will play a more covering role, mopping up anything that may get past either our full backs or Evans. He is also capable of covering for Coleman should he be caught too far forward.
I have gone for a more defensive pivot in the midfield, with Can and Dier both playing in deep roles to help nullify the threat of Hull’s attacking midfielders and wingers. They are both energetic players capable of patrolling that area and neither will be afraid to get themselves stuck in and break up the opposition play. Both are capable to slot into the full back positions as cover, but only one should do this at a time.
I’m giving More the license to be a free spirit in the attacking midfield position. It is his role to find space and exploit it, whether that means taking the ball down the flanks or dropping in just in front or behind the Hull defensive midfielders. He is good with both his feet and will prove a very technical threat to the opposition defence.
In Moura and Anderson we have two very fast and skilful players to cause havoc with the opposition full backs. We feel that they can terrorise the opposition with these attributes, taking advantage of the space that the opoosition may leave by sending their forwards through to contribute to their attack.
Cavani epitomises the energy and movement that we have up front. He can get around and use his experience and engine to take advantage of an inexperienced defence. We have to use the energy that we have in the final third to create plenty of chances for Cavani, because we know that we can get a few goals with our players ganging up on the opposition centre backs.
For this entire plan to work we need to concentrate on getting our creative players in behind the defence. This can be achieved by having Cavani constantly moving in the centre, tiring out their defensive players and keeping their centre backs preoccupied so that our wide men can exploit the space and make runs into the penalty area, either drawing fouls and earning free kicks/penalties, or getting shots away to test the opposition keeper.
In short, our defensive system is one of solidity, with multiple players capable of tackling and throwing themselves into the way of the ball and pushing them out wide, where their players cannot prove as threatening. We must show bravery in the tackle and in the blocks, attacking from the full backs, whilst also keeping our shape. This can be achieved by having midfielders capbel of covering, as well as starting play themselves.
When the ball is picked up in midfied then Dier and Can have many options. They have to release the ball quickly so we can hit them on the counter, either playing cross field balls to our wingers, going shorter to Mor or releasing the full backs to bomb forward. We will not be playing with the ball at the back. A similar policy will be undertaken if Evans or Ginter picks up the play.
Attacking wise, we have plenty of players that are capable of stretching and tiring out the opposition. Moura, Mor and Anderson will look to get in behind the lines and exploit space to create chances for our world class striker in the box. Both our wingers are also capable of swapping flanks, adding to the aspect of confusion that we are intending to impart in the opposition defence.
We can also pose a threat from corners, with Cavani, Evans, Ginter and Dier all posing as threats in the air. Corners and free kicks will be aimed at these four players, with Moura, Milner and Anderson waiting around the edge of the box to pick up on the second calls and force chances on goal.
Substitutes.
70 mins
Bolasie and Candreva on, Anderson and Moura off – Fresh legs and plenty of pace off the bench mean that we are capable of playing our attacking style of football for the entire game. Bolasie will also be able to use his strength to force open a tiring defence and give us some chances.
If losing
70 mins
Can off, Sanabria on – Go two up top and throw the kitchen sink at our opponents. Dier offers us defensive cover, but Sanabria means we can get more men in the box to get on the end of chances created by Candreva and Bolasie.
If winning
70 mins
Can off, McCarthy on – Fresh legs in central midfield so that we can keep up a high attacking game whilst having the legs to deal with potential counter attacks.
Captain: Milner
Penalties: Milner
Free kicks: Mor
Corners: Mor
--------------------- Neuer ------------------
Alves -------- Mustafi -- Hummels -- Digne
-------------------- Khedira -----------------
-------------- Matuidi -- Gundogan --------
Costa ---------- Lewandoswki ------- Payet
Subs: Navas, Carvajal, Savic, Carrick, Coman, Martial, Morata
Attacking 4-3-3, pace, power, possession, high work rate and discipline.
First game of the group, Chelsea are a strong side but have lost some key players to injury, we go in with a strong side looking to dominate in central areas, getting our most influential players on the ball as much as possible and taking the game to the opposition.
Emphasis will be on controlling the midfield, key to our attacking based possession game, i want a pack mentality always looking to have more numbers then the opposition in this area, winning the ball back through squeezing tightly and playing our attackers in early when the opposition are off their defensive organisation.
Sit deep, we are aware of the pace Chelsea possess going forward, Khedira screens the defence whilst Carvajal sits back too watch for any counters with our 2 CB’s at the back.
Neuer take command of his area and we look to take full advantage of his quality, sweep up at the back efficiently and distribute into space.
We should be quick to bypass their initial phase of pressing, play out from the back but keep it simple, get it into the feet of the midfielders without them having to come deep, as many options further up the field is imperative, bully the opposition and make them chase our shadows.
Our two wingers always stay wide and the front 3 always look to make runs in behind, stretch the opposition and allow our midfield trio to pick you out with ease, roaming into space and quick movement is essential to get at their backline.
Defensively we transition into a 4-1-4-1, two banks of four with a solid structure and organisation. When we press, we press as a unit, high work rate, if one of our players is quick to advance and shut down then his teammates either side must be quick to cut off any of their passing options, isolate and leave no easy option.
If they advance into dangerous areas, we should look to drop deep (10 men behind the ball) and crowd them out, squeeze the space and options in the final 3rd. Midfield and wingers look to provide barriers, these barriers need to make it as difficult as possible to breach our defence, never shy away from defensive responsibilities.
Frustrate the opposition with our organisation, stay rigid and allow their attackers little involvement in the game so they have to come deeper to get involved, make them play in front of us and ensure we prevent runs in behind as much as possible.
In attack we need to create as many lines as possible in midfield to counter their press, into feet with pace, never afraid to go back but look to probe and create gaps, open up space and feed the ball to the attackers.
Diamond in midfield, passing in triangles and using high energy, distribute and get them running after our shadows. The longer we are on the ball, the more they will tire as the game progresses.
We should actively look for one on one situations, take advantage of their injuries at the back, penetrate and create holes and always on the run, never standing still.
Wingers are key as we look to exploit the width on offer, stay wide and look to get it in their feet so we can transition instantly into a counter attacking threat. Look for the runs of the forward and get service into him from wide.
When we win the ball in midfield, Gundogan is the initiator in attack, get him on the ball and looking for an early release, we need his calm presence and eye for a pass, the base for a counter and feeding the ST as much as possible.
Service out from the back, put them off their organisation with diagonal balls over the top into feet, switch the play quickly and allow the attackers to run into space.
Lewandowski strong as an outlet, get our midfield and flankers into the game. Drop deep at times to get involved and dominate the CB's aerially.
Subs:
70th minute - If winning - (4-3-3 )
Carvajal > Alves
Coman > Costa
Morata > Lewandowski
Like for like, stay compact defensively and get Morata on to give their defenders a grilling.
70th minute – if draw - (4-5-1)
Coman > Costa
Morata > Lewandowski
Martial > Payet
5 in MF, create as many lines as possible in mf and get players with pace on, rigid in defence
70th minute - If losing (4-4-2)
Morata > Matuidi
Coman > Costa
Martial > Payet
4-4-2, two banks of four and looking to attack, very direct, getting as much service into the box for the front two to feed off.
C – Neuer
FK’s – Payet (If subbed - Gundogan)
Corners – Payet (If subbed - Gundogan)
Pens - Lewandoswki (If subbed - Morata)
--------------------------Bravo
G.Castro----Alderweireld-------Koulibaly-----Marcelo
-----------------------Christensen
-----------Griezmann----------------Koke
Williams---------------Aubameyang----------Carrasco
Subs: Courtois, Azpilicueta, Casemiro, Loftus-Cheek, Balde Keita, B.Traore, E.Unal
Captain: Koke
Free Kicks: Koke/Griezmann
Penalties: Aubameyang
Corners: Koke
Still adapting to the system but we keep faith and this week bring in Williams for Rakitic and Christensen for Danilo, Williams looking to provide greater width on the right and Christensen a player who can get us back on the front foot really quickly, whilst being a good one v one defender.
Tactically we go with the 5 and 5 system to allow us to defend higher up and dominate the midfield battle which will be crucial. This means that from the off we press their back line with 5 players, Aubameyang the first line getting in the faces of the CB’s with our two wide men right onto the FBs so City can’t move wide, with Koke and Griezmann able to step up and block the route to the CM players. By using this 5 man block to hurry City up in possession it allows us to set up with a second block of 5 who are organised into positions where they can just mop up the oppositions hurried attempts to get forward. At the head of this block are Marcelo and Castro, two very energetic players who will be quick to mop up anything that gets past our front 5, negating City’s AM trio who all want to play through the middle and making sure that we have the numbers in central areas to control things. If the oppo wide men look to pick pockets of space in the wide areas then the FBs will obviously readjust to deal with that and make sure they follow them. Behind the FBs we have Christensen and the CBs together as a 3 at all times and pushed up to make things compact, between them they have more than enough to deal with the striker, which means that Christensen can focus on following the central AM when he gets into our half, looking to focus solely on marking him out of the game. Alderweireld, Christensen and Koulibaly are all very strong in the air which means they can deal with any long ball forward, between them they have the pace to negate the striker trying to run wide and also all have a good passing range and can look to get us back on the front foot quickly by spreading out in possession to open up space in the middle, forcing the opposition attackers to vacate the middle, when they do so this allows Castro and Marcelo to push high up the field in wide areas to receive the ball and allows Koke to drop into the pocket of midfield space that opens up, with Bravo also excellent at helping us work the ball out, once the attack is into the opposition half Castro and Marcelo can squeeze in again so we can’t be countered.
If they get deep into our half we will begin focusing on controlling space rather than pressing their men, drop off and make sure their are no gaps to play through. At this stage we will look to make things narrow in midfield with the wide forwards dropping in to the midfield as narrow wide men, with Griezmann between them, Christensen and Koke covering the space behind so that City can't play in the lines. Defence drops deep and the FBs narrow to the CBs but in more natural FB positions, keeping the defence narrow and sat deep on the edge of our box means that the oppo can't use their pace to get through us, they will be forced into wide areas and we are strong aerially and can cope with crosses and sideways movement. Force them to keep going side to side and backwards, as soon as the ball is there to be won, stepping in and looking to release the front three. Koulibaly will man mark the CF today with his power, Alderweireld will use his reading of the game to sweep.
Going forward we want to be really positive today, controlling the game by using Castro and Marcelo infield and wide in order to move the opposition about, using their speed to get into City’s attackers quickly and then put us back on the attack. With these two in the midfield positions being disciplined it allows the 5 ahead to have more freedom in attack, they have to move, no standing still we want them all finding spaces. In particular, Koke and Griezmann have crucial roles in making sure things don't get overcrowded, they will look to drift all over the midfield to create chances, looking to get the ball into the three forwards but also make runs wider and look to drag the CMs out of their comfort zones, Koke and Griezmann 2 v 2 against the opposition CM isn’t a fair fight and will leave City vulnerable, from there they can then release the forwards into dangerous positions, either in behind the defence or into space between the lines where we've dragged Wanyama and co out. Griezmann in particular looks to do this job as he's very skilled in wide areas, whilst Koke looks to control the midfield area, dragging players wide when he needs to but mainly looking to dictate our attacks and allow Griezmann to get further ahead of him and make it a front 4. The three forwards then look to use their speed and movement on and off the ball to full effect. Carrasco looks to be the main source of width to really stretch the game, we want to get him up against the RB one v one as he has the beating of him, run him ragged and get balls into the box, or come infield and look to attack the CBs after the RB. Williams llooks to start wide and provide a runner between FB and CB using his incredible pace, with Carrasco holding width it allows Williams to come off the touchline and go and find the spaces, link up with his team mates and attack the goal as much as he can. Aubameyang then looks to get round the sides of the two CBs knowing he has the pace to beat them to any ball through and the instincts in the box to connect with the crosses, he's also adept at dropping deeper and looking to find the runs of Williams and Griezmann beyond him. The further forward we get the tighter it can become and at this stage we will release Marcelo/Castro to go wide, make an overlapping run to stretch the game and allow Williams to make an out to in run, both the two Fbs have excellent crossing. All the while if we lose the ball in the final third we have to become compact quickly, crowd City out and win it back in a matter of seconds.
Subs:
If Winning: Azpilicueta and Casemiro for G.Castro and Christensen 70’, natural RB and natural DM to keep us in control. Loftus-Cheek for Griezmann 75’, big powerful CM to keep us dominating the midfield, like Griezmann he loves to attack the area.
If Drawing: Keita for Carrasco 70’, fresh legs out in the wide area, lots of pace and trickery to hurt the opposition. Traore for Williams 75’, similar style of player, Traore will look to come infield and hit shots on his left foot. Enes Unal for Castro 80’, Christensen to RCB in a 3-5-2 with Marcelo pushed to WB, Traore as a WB and Unal up alongside Auba with Griezmann, Koke and Keita behind them.
If Losing: Loftus-Cheek for Carrasco 65’, 3-5-2 Castro and Marcelo higher up the pitch as WBs with Loftus-Cheek and Koke controlling midfield to allow Griezmann to play close to Williams and Aubameyang. Traore for Williams, Keita for Castro 75’, really go at them now.
Injuries - Mertens, Hamsik, Vardy
-----------------------------------------Cech--------------------------------
Walker---------------Toprak------------Verthonghen-----------------Rose
---------------------------------------Rabiot----------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mario-------------------------------------------------------------------------Nolito
---------------------------------------Calhanoglu-------------------------------------------
----------------------------Depay------------------Rashford-----------------
Subs - Zieler, Ake, Young, Konoplyanka, Moutinho, Florenzi, Janssen
CAPTAIN - CECH
CK'S - CALHANOGLU
FK'S - CALHANOGLU
PENALTIES - RASHFORD
A cup game this week against rof so trying a different formation seeing as he has a lot of big names injured. This 41212 formation is solid in defence but also very attacking with 2 strikers up front and an AM playing behind them.
Defence
I got a world class keeper in goal so he will be hard to beat. The defence is well balanced. Toprak and Verthonghen are an excellent partnership and bring experience at the back. Toprak brings that old school no nonsense defending. Stay strong and if the opposition play 1 up front than stay close to him and not let him turn. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box.
Defence Mid
Rabiot
He will be ultra defensive mode, covering for our players when they are out of position and marking the oppo AM and strikers. Don't stray too far forward and if you have possession of the ball pass it to a teammate asap. Only job is to defend.
Wingers
Mario + Nolito
Giving these 2 a start this week. Nolito isn't yiur typical pacy winger, he is a very good dribbler and is very good at keeping hold of the ball. Play quick passes and try and carve open the oppo defence with intricate play. Be ready for the counter attack as and Mario are deadly on them. Mario will be more focused primarily on beating the left back on the outside and getting to the byline to get a decent cross in. Confuse the oppo left back by twisting and turning and you are also good at using your left foot so if you cut in and shoot you can. I want you both to help track back and help the full backs when they are in our half of the pitch.
Attack Mid
Calhanoglu
Shoot if you see a chance. Use your playmaking ability to create chances. Play quick passes with the players around you and try and find space inbetween the oppo players.
Strike
Depay + Rashford
I want you both to use your pace to try and beat the offside trap. Rashford, you have a lot of stamina so when the opposition CB'S have the ball I want you to close them down and pressure them. Try and bring other players into the game. Pass and move is the way to go. With two fast pacy strikers up front, we're bound to create chances on the counter.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Janssen for Rashford. Also bring on Konoplayanka for Nolito and Florenzi for Calhanoglu. Play a high line and try and get a goal.
Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take of Calhanoglu and put on Ake in CB and play 5atb ultra defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives. Janssen for Rashford aswell.
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Rashford off for Janssen
Calhanoglu off for Florenzi
Nolito off for Konoplyanka
------------------ De Gea ------------------
P.Lahm - Boateng - Bonucci - Ricardo
---------- Busquets - L.Modric ----------
Sanchez -------- Pogba -------- Neymar
------------------ Aguero ------------------
Butland, Umtiti, Lemina, Gomes, Pjaca, Dybala, G.Jesus
In goal De Gea, a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, shouting instructions to his defenders. Out very quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.
Bonucci in beside Boateng today, on this occassion Bonucci will man mark the CF. Bonucci is quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, powerfully built so marking the CF should be no trouble as he has to man up to him, will keep him away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Boateng alongside is fantastic in the air, so will mark any other big players that come into our danger area, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger. Both are comfortable on the ball and can bring it out from defence but when in no danger and no erseing about with it, also both go up for corners and are a huge threat as the two fullbacks and Busquets hang back.
Lahm and Ricardo at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Lahm and Ricardo are perfect for this . They will look to keep them away from shooting areas where is dangerous in any position. This is a vital clash in this game. They will be up against quality wingers so look to force him away from goal and backwards. I want them to attack when in no danger so time these runs perfectly. One sits back a bit and allowing the other to attack, this is keeping a 3 at the back at all times. Their marking abilities are sound, both have good positional sense and very quick, do not make rash desicions and will stay on their feet. Both FBs can attack. When one goes the other stays as they look to make an extra man down the flank for our wingers to cut inside or play neat one twos to free the wingers up as there fullbacks get dragged out of position.
Busquets to stop the AM getting the ball from midfield to the striker, he must be right on top of him looking to close him down at the quickest opportunity, let him dictate play and there striker will get plenty chances, we must not let this happen. So quick and into him, fairly and stop this! Busquets himself will look to dictate from deep as he picks up from the defence and looks to drive us forward with precision passing. Modric v the second most advanced midfielder much the same, but obvs when we have the ball he is allowed to move forward and push him back, Modric should have a bit of time to look around him for the pass, So he will look to find his team mates with ease. Use his upper body strength to get him away from the player. Pass and move always look for the return pass. When they have then close down the CM, he will look to ping the ball about so get to him before that opportunity arises. We have put Pogba in a No.10 role or just slightly withdrawn No.10 against there DM he must be strong, Pogba is an all round fantastic midfielder, however he will look to take the DM on one v one drag him about open up spaces for others to drive into, with the ball at feet look to play quick one twos with those around him so he makes the runs into the box looking for that return ball that will get him in on goal. If the ball is played to him with his back to goal hold it up, draw the foul from the DM, if it doesnt come then look to lay it off, look to play the slide pass into Aguero. All three are good all round midfielders, But Busquets i want to sit in the hole with the two either side when defending.
Neymar and Sanchez are known for their creativity, speed, and technical ability and are fearless, explosive attacking midfielders who can change the game with a turn of pace or a dribble. More importantly both scorers of wonderful and important goals. Both technically excellent in limited areas, fast explosive acceleration during the first ten yards. Which more often than not takes them passed defenders and allows them to get into dangerous areas. Always play with there heads up looking for the runs of others to get the ball into there feet. When they have the ball look to stick close to fullbacks and stop them coming forward. Just track the fullbacks and use pace to get back and in around there faces to stop them becoming a threat. Always be looking for Pogba inside as the three make an awesome trio attack wise in behind Aguero and a scary proposition for the Brum back line
Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. Aguero is surprisingly good in the air and two good feet, can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front four/five will be a threat today we must go for it and keep pace with the league leaders. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Neymar and Sanchez running into support. Pogba will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side
Captain - Lahm
Penalties - Aguero
Free kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Subs:-
Losing -
70 Mins - Dybala > Modric, Pogba drops deep, Dybala up on Agueros shoulder
80 Mins - Pjaca > Ricardo 3 at the back Pjaca and Sanchez into a 4 man mid and 3 up top
Winning -
70 Mins - Lemina for Modric to shore up the midfield
80 Mins - Dybala for Aguero like for like
Drawing -
70 Mins - Dybala for Modric switch with Pogba and Dybala plays a little further forward
80 Mins - Gomes for Pogba
---------------- Ter Stegen ------------------
Bellerin - Sokratis - Williams - Monreal
------------ Bender --- Cazorla -------------
Walcott --------- Mata ----------- A.Iwobi
----------------- Chicarito ------------------
Pau, Barzagli, Defour, Tufan, Miirallas, Kelechi, Defrel
Captain Ashley Williams wont let the standards slip throughout. He and Sokratis are a hard nut partnership which no striker would relish coming up against, Sokratis will match him for power and strength as he goes heaed to head with him, dont give him any room at all to get himself into scoring opportunities. Be onto him like a fly round shiete, Williams will backj him up as the two form a fromidable wall in front of Ter Stegen who is a fanastic shot stopper and gives confidence to the rest of the team from the back. Punch clear what he cant catch.
Bellerin can drive forward as he knows Monreal will tuck in to keep at least a back 3 in case of break aways. He attacks and has a great understanding with Walcott, He can drive outside there fullback as the two go gung ho at him, Bellerin and Walcott are two of the quickest in the league so at full pace will easily get in beyond the defenders and create havoc amongst there back line. If he gets the ball back look to drive and cross in, play the trriangles with Walcott and Bender to get into space. On the otherside Monreal is more relaxed and will give Bellerin the freedom by staying back, you will see him at half way but from there he looks for the pass instead of driving on. When we defend we hava a solid bank of four with the midfield ahead of them. Solid as a rock man.
Bender and Cazorla ahead has a power of work in them, will harrass there midfield all day long if they have to. Both energetic players and wont give them a breather. Bender himself will pick up the AM whilst Cazorla will act as the box to box, he supports the defence when they drive at us but when we attack he will allow Mata to push on as he takes up the AM role just ahead of Bender, this allows Mata to roam and become a nuisance.
Outwide we have pace and skill Walcott has freedom to drive today obvs with Bellerin as spoken about, The two can go and have fun v there LB, really look to pose hunners of problems purely with pace. Pace these days is a massive attribute and if you got it use it. When Bellerin drives passed Walcott can push in and he and Chicarito will look for quick one twos to get one of them in on goal, this is if Bellerin hasnt got it to cross in. Iwobi is young and confident but also has a cool head and the skill to beat his man, he and Monreal will use their heads to pass it around with Cazorla until the right moment to play the presicion pass that will get Walcott/Iwobi/Mata into space or indeed the cross in for \Chicarito. As we defend this is also a flat 4 so we have two banks of 4 making it as difficult as possible for them.
Mata will have a free role, he is there to pass it around, make late dashes into the box and generally be a nuisance, pull players away from there area to allow others to drive into space, when Cazorla is looking up Mata will try and get into space for Cazorla to find him, then he himself will be looking for the front three so he can play them in. Defence wise, if they play a three he annoys the more defensive one and tries to stop holding onto the ball too long.
Chicarito up top, is great with his back to goal, can turn his man easily and go for goal, has the power and strength to get away from his man and drive in. Also can hold the ball up well to allow others to come in and support as he lays it off for them to have a go.
Very useful in the air for when the ball is crossed in.
Quick football especially down our right hand side, neat triangles, one twos to get beyond them, they may be top but we dont care.
Captain - Williams
Penalties - Chicarito
FreeKicks - Mata
Corners - Mata
Subs:-
Losing -
Kelechi for Mata, Defour for Cazorla on 75 Mins 442 fresh legs an all that
Winning -
Defour for Mata on 75 Mins and he sits in, Mirallas for Iwobi same time
Drawing -
Kelechi for Mata and switch it with Chicarito, Mirallas for Iwobi on 70 mins
Arsenal vs Stoke
Injuries
Clichy, Rugani, Valero, ADM
4-4-2 Diamond
…………………………………..Hart……………………………
Hysaj………………Chiellini……Romagnoli………..De Sciglio
…………………………………..Verratti………………………………..
………………………Matic…………………Marchisio……………………
……………………………………Oscar………………………………………….
………………………..Ronaldo…………Tevez…………………………..
Subs: Patricio, Luiz, Baselli, Berardi,Kane,Mandzukic, Cahill
Change of system await at Stoke – paying homage to Carlito’s all-conquering Milan side, nice slick fast paced possession football – The diamond allows us to play the passes short and crisp keeping the ball on the floor, no need to rush or go long.
The one weakness of this system is a perceived lack of width but with De Sciglio and Hysaj given the freedom to attack at will plus Oscar given a free role this isn’t as big an issue as people think.
The defence –
Hysaj and De Sciglio have great pace and fantastic engines so they’ll be motoring up and down the flanks given us balance on both flanks – their advances will be in line with the midfield in the early transition stages as we want them involved in the build up play, but as we venture into the final 3rd they will use their pace to kick on behind Stokes FB’s
Chiellini and Roma – will use their physical attributes to keep Stokes Striker(s) quiet by any means necessary, neither will venture forward today – except for set-pieces
The Midfield –
I know some will say Matic and Verratti need swapping but they don’t – Verratti is there because I want him as the heart-beat, Pirlo-esque so he has to get on the ball early and dictate the tempo of the game..Matic is in the engine room because he can make those marauding runs forward BUT with his tough-tackling in the middle of the pitch we can win the ball back higher up the field, which in turn enables us to get in more attacks before Stoke get bodies behind the ball…Marchisio pure and simple is our engine in there.
Oscar – Plays the role that Kaka did for Milan – not a pure #10 but a solid B2B AM – will drop deep to collect the ball but also has a decent strike rate so will look to get in the box and make things happen.
Ronaldo & Tevez – worked well at United back in the day, no reason why it can’t now, Ronaldo can do anything in a game of football and that’s what makes him so hard to stop because he really does have it all. Tevez is so hard working he truly is our first line of defence – will harry Stokes defence all day long forcing errors or long punts forward – always in amongst the goals and very good at running the channels
Subs 60 mins
Kane > Tevez
Berardi > Oscar
we then finish the game in a 4-3-3
Berardi……………..Kane…………Ronaldo
Injuries: Stark, Sule, Kostic, Gibson
Captain: Johannes Geis
Penalties: Werner (Vietto)
Free Kicks: Johannes Geis
-------------------------------Horn
Weiser-----Klostermann-------Tah-------Henrichs
---------------------Geis-----------Dahoud
-----Volland--------------Óliver--------------Brandt
---------------------------Werner
Subs: Karius, Wimmer, Biglia, Goretzka, Schöpf, Vietto, Pohjanpalo
Our defensive unit consists of Lukas Klostermann and Niklas Süle paired up at centre-back, Mitchell Weiser at right-back and Benjamin Henrichs at left-back, with Johannes Geis and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Geis and Dahoud we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Dahoud can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Geis can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Dahoud’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Dahoud running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Johannes Geis.
A holding midfielder through and through, Geis is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Geis such a talent.
Geis is also our deadball specialist so do watch out for his pin-point accuracy from free kicks.
The attacking unit consists of Kevin Volland, Óliver Torres and Julian Brandt as our band of three attacking midfielders with Timo Werner as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Geis or Dahoud, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Weiser and Henrichs can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Geis and Dahoud can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Kevin Volland and Julian Brandt who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Óliver Torres our attacking central midfielder’s diminutive physique and low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Óliver is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer who will look to play Volland, Brandt or Werner in via fast passing combinations.
Very much like his comrades (Volland, Brandt & Óliver), Timo Werner is blessed with incredible pace on and off the ball, and quick dribbling to get past defenders, and a real killer instinct in front of the goal. Werner will also be a good team player with the vision to set up his teammates.
Sub: 75 Mins: Goretzka on for Dahoud, Schöpf on for Óliver, and Vietto on for Werner
------------------Forster-------------------
Holding--van Dijk-Kompany-L.Shaw
Mahrez---N.Kante--Dembele---Draxler
--------------------Fekir--------------------
-----------------Lacazette-----------------
Pickford, Tierney, Valencia, Haddadi, Parejo, Dembele Berahino
Forster behind the back four which is a solid defence, with the keeper shouting when he comes out for the ball, he will punch clear what he cant catch and look to release the ball early
Kompany takes the free role at the back, he sits spare whilst van Dijk picks up the CF. While van Dijk is picking up the CF, Kompany takes a step off him as he will be mindful of the CF if he gets away from van Dijk or indeed any other attacker that comes through. Both need to be strong in the defence, they cannot be bullied by the CF or any other attackers, although they are both powerful boys. van Dijk must make desicions quickly to where he has to be and not make rash desicions, that is where Kompany helps him. They attack all high balls, they must stick tight as we are playing two attacking fullbacks, Both top class with the ball, so if they are feeling comfortable then move out with the ball.
Holding and Shaw are in for their defensive attributes as we will be up agianst it, both are allowed to attack but will be sporadic.
I really want a solid back four today as there attack is good, so defend the lines dont let anyone passed without at least challenging them. Make it as difficult as possible to get passed them. Hold firma nd stay tall, both strong and young so keeping them back should be ok. They can go forward but look to pass it to our midfield first and foremost and dont get too carried away.
We are going to look and play a compact midfield to reduce the time they have on the ball. Dembele and Kante will be sitting in with either making the occassional run forward, one of them must sit in at all times. I want them to break their attack up very quickly and get the ball forward or out to our fullbacks. Kante takes up the main role of marking there attacking midfielder. He is a very in your face type character and will hunt you down very quickly as is Dembele so there midfielders wont have much time on the ball. Both very powerful players in the centre of my midfield.
Mahrez and Draxler will play with freedom to attack and support Fekir and Lacazette,they have a lot of skill so can pick these players out easily when we break forward and as we break forward they can cut inside and allow our fullbacks to get beyond them to put in the cross, it may seem as if we are being withdrawn today but with cover from the fullbacks the wingers have a little more freedom to break forward. Mahrez and Draxler will push wide to stop there fullbacks if needed. Close control from our midfield pass quickly and look to get around there players. Our fullbacks are important today as midfielders when we attack, we need lots of energy and drive from them.
Fekir will be the link that will get the ball from midfield to attack, his passing is sublime. Will have his head up at all times and pick team mates out easily breaking down there defensive lines with ease, quick one touch passing to the front three and they will be in on goal very quickly. If he has to drop deep to get possession of the ball then so be it, he has the freedom to do so. Links very well with Lacazette
Lacazette is a fantastic outlet up front as he can not only take players on with his pace but is strong enough to hold off players to allow others to come in and support, especially Fekir who will be up in support a lot, always looking to go for goal and two good feet, with support from our fullbacks, Draxler and Mahrez also this is a very quick and powerul front line always driving forward and hopefully that defenders will fear. We must drive at them non stop, we have subs which we will use.
Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Lacazette
Free Kicks - Mahrez
Corners - Wingers
Substitutes
If we are losing Dembele the striker will come on for Fekir on 70 Mins also Haddadi for Draxler 2 up front
If we are winning Parejo will come on for Fekir and Dembele For Lacazette on 75 Minutes, Valencia for Holding on 80
Drawing then Haddadi for Draxler on 70 mins
--------------------Buffon
Juanfran---Pepe----Godin---Wendell
----------------Krychowiak
--------Nainggolan-------Pjanic
Mane-------------------------------Firmino
-------------------Suarez
Subs
Lloris, Manolas, Clyne, Fabregas, Salah, Dembele, Sturridge
Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will claim it without trouble, he and the defence have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance being conceded When he has the ball he will look to offload quickly in the direction of Suarez or Firmino to get those quick counter attacks started.
Godin is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM dropping in to make it a back 3 always ready to stop counter attacks, Both CB"s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are so they are always aware. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid sliding tackles unless necessary instead looking to use our experience to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space with the occasional long ball to the front 3 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.
For the full backs today the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly wfen defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly and launching an attack of our own.
Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who they go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, looking to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. when we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 3 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player around them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery to make runs between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Suarez, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece due to the ability of our set piece takers. When the opposite wide man has the ball, the wideman without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.
When Suarez is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead of the defender and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul, his unpredictable style when on the ball will look to cause a bit of doubt in the minds of the defenders as he has a knack of bouncing it off peoples shins and it landing in a perfect position for himself to create a chance for himself or others. He also has a knack of being the first to react to get onto rebounds or parries and taking those one touch chances..
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.
Set Pieces
Corners - Pjanic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out inbetween the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Suarez work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a freer run at the ball, Firmino and Mane flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Krychowiak looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him creating less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Radja takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and occasionally providing the short option to try and draw 2 defenders out of the box.
Free Kicks - Suarez takes Direct FK's
For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners
Penalties - Suarez is the designated taker.
Subs
If Winning
70 mins - Dembele for Firmino - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
81 + 85 Mins - Salah for Mane and Fabregas for Pjanic - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Fabregas for Radja - Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
70 Mins - Sturridge, Manolas and Fabregas for Wendell, Krychowiak and Juanfran - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and we go all out attacking for a way to get back into the game.
If a red card occurs, we go to a 4-4-1 formation with Krychowiak being the sacrificial lamb to cover the position we lost the player in, unless it is himself or one of the other centre mids.
Balanced 4-3-3
We are confident our trio of cms can win the midfield battle. Kroos dictates our tempo and play, mixing it up for us with his long passing ability. Vidal offers all action going forward and in defence, with Javi the enforcer at dm.
We play with a high tempo without the ball. We will vary our tempo in possession.
The fb on the side of play is tasked with providing attacking width. The wingers will look to come narrow and get close to Ibrahimovic, always looking to support, link up and play off him. James offers goals and creativity, Ibra the power and hold up play with Hazard always looking to get in behind the defence and using his pace to beat his man.
Target and overload their cbs, Ibra’s power will prove difficult for their cbs to deal with, he can dominate here. Get balls to him in the box.
Defensively we have a strong side, with pace at the back, and midfielders that can get back and form a solid defensive unit, with great intelligence, work rate and leadership throughout the side.
------------- Handanovic
Danilo – Ramos – Otamendi - Kurzawa
------------- J.Martinez
-------- A.Vidal ---- T.Kroos
-- James.R ------------------- Hazard --
------------ Ibrahimovic
Subs. Bentley, Ghoulam, Strootman, Brozovic, Sane, Turan, Costa
Key to our attack is quick attacking play. Varying our play and how we get the ball to our wingers/Ibra quickly.
Defending in numbers
We look to control the opposition by pressing the space with a narrow rigid defensive unit, only allowing them to play in areas we want them to. When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone else bar Ibra gets behind the ball into position. Stop them breaking.
In a deep, narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Draw them in to positions where they can’t hurt us, and then try and win the ball back.
We always keep one fb back. We have a quick defence and energy and pace in midfield to stop quick breaks. Javi sits in front, when we’re attacking we always have 3 defenders with the dm in front, offering plenty of defensive cover.
As Pompey advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1. Our wingers will track any forward runs made by their fbs, and Javi is the midfielder in between the lines, pressing the space in front of our cbs in a position to cover the midfield.
In this tight rigid formation, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Javi will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, reading any dangers to get across.
Vidal and Kroos, hold central positions in front of Javi, offering a strong defensive trio.
The winger opposite to the play coming narrow and deep next to him providing a further wall in between those pressing and the back four. Narrowing the play to the side Pompey are attacking, pushing them backwards and wide away from danger. When they switch play, we switch over.
Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, they will drop off more and narrow the play so they can bide their time, waiting for the right time to make the tackle, not diving in. If he does manage to get past you coming inside Javi and a cb will be there to tidy up or down the line then there’s a chance to get back and stop the cross.
Attack.
Get the ball to Kroos, he sets the tempo of our play. He has freedom to play long balls, over the top for our attackers, direct to Ibra or diagonals to our wingers. Stretch their team. If their defence drops deeper it gives us the ability to push up and get on top of the game, if they keep a high line we can continue to try get in behind and find our attackers in space.
In possession, the defence push up playing a reasonably high line as all are comfortable in possession and have great pace with Javi offering further cover in front. The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, starting our attacks from the back.
The midfield should never be flat. The cm trio will look to pass the ball in triangles, always looking to go on further and provide another passing option.
Kroos and Vidal both have freedom to get forward and look for space between their defence and midfiekld. One will look to get in the box when we’re getting balls in, the other hangs slightly further back, a few yards from the edge of the penalty box back, looking to get on any loose balls.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Vidal, Kroos and the wingers will always be looking for the killer ball. If it is not on, we are happy to keep possession, attacking down the wings.
Ibrahimovic has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals. Get crosses in to him.
Subs. If drawing or winning after 70 mins bring on Costa for Ibrahimovic. Let him loose.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Turan for James. Fresh energy and legs.
If winning after 85 mins bring on Sane for Hazard. Fresh pace and power.
If drawing after 78 mins bring on Turan for Javi.M. 4-2-3-1. James AM, Sane RW.
If drawing after 85 mins bring on Sane for Hazard.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Turan for Javi.M. 4-2-3-1. James AM, Sane RW.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Costa for James.R. 4-2-2-2. Two up top go for it.
Red cards for Wolves
Mata off 441
Ter stegen - Pau on
Fb - Tufan on
CB - Barzagli on
CM - Defour on
Winger - Mirallas on
CF - Kelechi on
Injuries - Rekik, Ake, Mario, Nolito
-----------------------------------------Cech--------------------------------
Walker-----Toprak----Shawcross----Verthonghen----Rose
------------------------------------Carvalho----------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pedro----------------------------Hamsik--------------------------Mertens
---------------------------------------Vardy-----------------------------------------
Subs - Zieler, Davies, Young, Sissoko, Moutinho, Florenzi, Janssen
CAPTAIN - CECH
CK'S - MERTENS
FK'S - MERTENS
PENALTIES - VARDY
OH SHEET! It's the big one. Up against Fan and the defending champions of the world Chelsea. Fan expects me to just bend over and let him do me over but I say NO! I will not give up! I will never back down! I will PARK THE AEROPLANE IN FRONT OF GOAL!
Defence
I got a world class keeper in goal so he will be hard to beat. This defence consists of the Turkish Delight, Toprak. The no nonsense yob Shawcross and the Belgian Bazooka Verthonghen. With these 3 playing CB, they are the trye definition of "Thou shall not pass!" Stay deep and compact. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box.
Defence Mid
Carvalho
He will be ultra defensive mode, covering for our players when they are out of position and marking the oppo AM and strikers. If one of the oppo players is lininh up a shot from long range i want you to close him down and block the shot. Don't stray too far forward and if you have possession of the ball pass it to a teammate asap. Only job is to defend.
Wingers
Pedro + Mertens
Giving these 2 a start this week. Pedro isn't your typical pacy winger, he is a very good dribbler and is very good at keeping hold of the ball. Play quick passes and try and carve open the oppo defence with intricate play. Be ready for the counter attack as Pedro and Mertens are deadly on them. Pedro will be more focused primarily on beating the left back on the outside and getting to the byline to get a decent cross in. Confuse the oppo left back by twisting and turning and you are also good at using your left foot so if you cut in and shoot you can. I want you both to help track back and help the full backs when they are in our half of the pitch.
Attack Mid
Hamsik
Shoot if you see a chance. Use your playmaking ability to create chances. Play quick passes with the players around you and try and find space inbetween the oppo players.
Strike
Vardy
I want you to use your pace to try and beat the offside trap. Vardy, you have a lot of stamina so when the opposition CB'S have the ball I want you to close them down and pressure them. Try and bring other players into the game. Pass and move is the way to go.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Change firmation to 41212. Put on Janssen for Shawcross . Also bring on Young for Pedro and Florenzi for Carvalho . Play a high line and try and get a goal.
Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take of Hamsik and put on Davies in CB and play 6atb ultra defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives. Janssen for Vardy aswell.
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Vardy off for Janssen
Hamsik off for Florenzi
Pedro off for Young
----------------------------Trapp--------------------------
----Howedes----Laporte----Dragovic-----Blind----
--------------------------Wanyama----------------------
------------------Rabiot-------------Witsel--------------
-----Gotze------------------------------Konoplayanka--
-----------------------------Icardi---------------------------
Subs: Batalla, Matip, Hector, Kranevitter, Barkley, Taison, Rodriguez.
Tough game at home to Villa. They have some quality attacking players but are very suspect in wide areas and at the back so we will look to use that to our advantage as much as possible. We have a solid back line that has plenty of defensive quality and rigidity about it. We have good tackles, physicality and ball players in the midfield and we have the quality out wide and up front to cause them problems. Our defence will stay sat, our full backs won't contribute much going forward as they need to be positioned well as we know they will want their wide men to really push on, so they have to keep tight. Dragovic and Laporte have to keep tight and strong on Higuaín. He is a danger in the box and we know we need to keep him tied down and under wraps for as much of this game as possible as well as looking to frustrate him when and where we can. We need to sit deep when we can to really restrict the space in behind the defence of them to play and we have to keep it tight and compact when deep so that they struggle to find gaps to pick passes and create chances. Wanyama sits in the defensive midfield role. His purpose of this job is to man mark KDB. He has to be on his toes at all time, not giving him the space to breathe when he is on the ball. Wanyama is a very fit and professional player at his job and he needs to shut down KDB. His tackles have to be strong and he needs to be disciplined throughout this game. Blind can offer support to Konoplayanka down the line, but he can't go racing past him as we cannot afford to get exposed down the flanks this game. Rabiot and Witsel are crucial in this game if we are to win it. They have to be the midfielders with energy and creativity and they have to break from deep to push us up the pitch and play with the ball. But there has to be energy in there and we must be playing up with the ball. Their defensive duties are to support Wanyama sitting in on KDB and to track any midfield runners coming forward. Gotze and Konoplayanka are our wide men. Defensively need to be sound at tracking back and supporting the full backs as we can't leave them isolated out wide in 1v1 situations but they have to be ruthless going forward as we know their full backs like to push up the pitch and we can expose them there. Icardi will be up front. We will look to play direct for his hold up play and he must be strong against the centre backs for them. He needs to be linking the play with the wide men and midfielders breaking at pace.
The man to man marking has to be done through the middle. KDB and Higuaín up top must be marked tightly through the middle and it's important that the midfield around Wanyama hold a position to block passes as much as possible through to them 2 through the middle as well as pressing their other midfielders when they get to the final third. Our full backs stay narrow to restrict the space until the ball gets played wide, then they go and meet the man and send him wide. Gotze and Konoplayanka come inside and sit on their 2 deeper midfielders to stop them playing passes and giving them time, but must push out to the full backs when they go forward and must hit on the break.
Going forward we have to use the energy in our midfield and we have to exploit the wide areas as much as we can. We know their full backs can be very suspect as they like to push forward and their positioning is also their to be questioned as well. Konoplayanka is a natural wide man, he really needs to hug the touchline and drag their right back out of position as much as possible and really get at him out wide. Using his pace and crossing ability, we really must utilise him as much as we can. Gotze has a separate role, he needs to float and roam around as a raumdeuter. He needs to make life difficult for the left back to pick him up and must also look to drag him out of position as much as possible and looking to find pockets of space in behind Icardi and work off from there. With both Rabiot and Witsel pushing forward with energy onto their sitting midfielders, Gotze can have the time and space to come inside and pick pockets without being tracked too well unless their left back wants to come out of position to stop him. Icardi must be working with these players. He has a trusted winger in Konoplayanka wide and must use his crosses to great effect and get on the end of them. With Gotze coming inside, he needs to be close to him so hat he can link with Gotze and really make life tough for their midfielders to track and deal with him. He has Rabiot and Witsel breaking from midfield and he must be looking to make movements in behind and into spaces so that they can both supply the passes in there for him and to really pull and pick their defence apart. Rabiot and Witsel need to push forward to make their midfielders pick up and track but they need to get hold of the ball, control it pushing forward and pick their defence apart with their passes and energy.
Subs
If winning:
Hector for Konoplayanka - Blind goes into CB, Hector LB and Gotze AM, formation set at 5-4-1 (AM), aiming to keep it tight and solid and to hold on. (75 mins)
Barkley for Gotze - Fresh legs in AM and to slow the tempo down a little bit. (80 mins)
Kranevitter for Rabiot - Another DM to help in closing down, pressing the ball and marking up. (80 mins)
If drawing:
Taison for Witsel - 4-2-3-1 with Gotze AM. (75 mins)
Kranevitter for Rabiot - Fresh legs in DM, watching for the break away. (75 mins)
If losing:
Rodrguez for Wanyama - Up top with Icardi, 4-2-2-2 formation. (70 mins)
Taison for Konoplayanka - Another AM to help play through the middle. (75 mins)
------------------Leno
Toure------Ginter------Evans----Baines
Candreva-----Illaramendi-----Anderson
---------Ramsey-----------Ozil
-------------------Cavani
Caceres
Bernat
Dier
Mor
Moura
Sanabria
Ward-Prowse
We have yet again set up in a different style, this time utilising our physicality down the middle and our flair on the flanks. Our aim is to play a game where we press the opponent high up the pitch, forcing them into mistakes and trying to seize on them for our own advantage. The players we have selected reflect a desire for a physical presence on the game, and have also been picked for their high energy levels.
I am giving Baines and Toure the license to push forward when we are on the ball, supporting Candreva and Anderson by pushing down the line and doubling up on the opponent’s full backs. We feel that this can help to give us the initiative in the final third as we can get men over on the opponent. Baines has a very strong delivery into the box, and will be looking to put it in low for the runs of Cavani, Ozil and Ramsey, flashing balls across the face of goal, or pulling it back to the edge of the box.
When off the ball I expect both to push and pull at the opponents wider players, harassing them and pressing them at the top end of the pitch so that they don’t have the time to move up and down the flanks. Both of my fullbacks are good defensive players that are willing to throw themselves in. If the opponent’s wide men do get the ball in our first third then they are to be pushed to the corner flag and onto their weaker foot.
Our centre back partnership have to learn to double up on the opponents. Evans will act as an aerial buffer, being the more physical of the two and getting himself stuck in. Ginter will act as the covering player, dealing with the ball on the ground and robbing the ball off anyone that gets past Evans. When on the ball our defenders should have plenty of options, but we encourage them to play short simple balls to the wings or Illaramendi.
Illaramendi plays the role of the midfield general and buffer to the opposition. He shields our defence from attack by being willing to throw himself into tackles and using his strength to limit the threat that attacking midfielders in the opponent’s game plan can do to us. It may be a huge ask getting him to do such a lot of work, but for this purpose he will not be asked to contribute much going forward, instead sitting right in front of the defence. When he does get the ball he should look to spread it out wide.
Candreva and Anderson are picked today for their work ethic of running up and down the line. When not on the ball it is their job to harass and press the opponents full backs, causing them to either hit it long or play it across their own back four. When they do get on the ball then they must run at the defence, either getting themselves into the penalty area or laying it off for a supporting full back on the overlap.
In Ramsey we have added a bit of strength into our attacking midfield positions. It is his job to run the length of the pitch, getting back to support the defence when the oppoisition have the ball in the first third, harrying and pressing when they have it in the second and third, and making runs past Cavani for Ozil to ping the ball over to and for the wingers and full backs to put in low balls for. It is important that he uses his strength and energy to win the ball high up the pitch.
Ozil will be given a slightly freer role than Ramsey. I still expect him to press high up the pitch in conjunction with his AM partner, but I don’t expect him to track back, leaving him up front with Cavani to peg the opposition defence back. When the wingers are on the ball he will look to find space on the edge of the box, making the option for the ball to be pulled back to, or will run through to try and get a foot on the ball at the near post.
Cavani has to use the strength and energy that he has in abundance to maintain the pressing game high up the pitch, with it being his job to target the opposition centre backs, stopping them from playing it out from the back by leading the line in pushing up and forcing them into holding the ball too long or hitting it long.
When we get on the ball he is to get himself into the penalty area, where he will make a nuisance of himself. He is to try and find some space, but if he cannot then get ball side of his man and get shots away on goal, knowing that the ball will be coming into feet gives him an advantage here.
Substitutes
65 mins – Ramsey off, Mor on – Fresh legs in the attacking midfield slot, with Mor taking up Ramsey’s responsibilities and adding some quick feet into the equation.
70 mins – Anderson and Baines off, Bernat and Moura on – Bernat comes in as a natural replacement for Baines at LB, and Moura slots in on the left hand side of midfield.
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
5. Zabaleta — 12. Smalling — 4. Benatia — 6. Sandro
—————— 16. De Rossi —— 5. Wijnaldum
10. Robben ————— 17. De Bruyne ————— 11. Reus
————————————— 9. Higuain
SUBS: 31. Begovic, 12. Smalling, 8. Coutinho, 38. Barry, 23. Eriksen, 39. Son, 7. Mkhitaryan
Captain: Marco Reus
Corners: Kevin de Bruyne
Crossing free-kicks: Kevin de Bruyne
Shooting free-kicks: Marco Reus
Penalties: Marco Reus
We stick to a 4-2-3-1 counter attack and again a near full strength side with Robben coming into the side bringing his tactical intelligence with him, helping with dominating the midfield alongside KDB and Reus. Up against a strong opposition team today in what is a crucial game for Aston Villa’s chances at getting a trophy we need a win and so we are very motivated, we expect the opposition to be looking to dominate, we usually play this way too, however with our greater experience and the pace on the break of our front 4 we're going to play more on the counter attack leaving very little space between the lines of midfield and defence when defending.
The advantage of the 4-2-3-1 formation in terms of counter attacking is it is very easy to change quickly from defence to attack and create superior number situations in the opposition half of the pitch with the 4 rows of players on the pitch, what is a 4-5-1 in defensive situations can very quickly become a 4-3-3 in attack.
The block of four of Benatia Smalling De Rossi and Wijnaldum will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. De Rossi and Wijnaldum will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line while Smalling will mark their striker tightly with Benatia sweeping behind if he does get through. KDB will come back in the defending phase to help win the ball back with the two midfielders.
Oblak will play in goal, his talents are obvious to anyone, fantastic shot stopper and very good coming off his line so he can sweep up any balls in behind and someone capable of wonder saves.
The first line of our formation is the defence, the full backs Zabaleta and Sandro are extremely fit and very strong in defence and tactically aware of their roles in this system which is crucial, they are to make the job of the wide attackers of the opposition as difficult as possible not allowing them to make runs in between themselves and the centre halves, keeping them as wide as possible and as far from goal as possible, good communication from the centre halves is crucial.
The two midfielders De Rossi and Wijnaldum are our second line of defence and attack, by playing two deeper lying players they can rotate, one of them will always be available for the ball when we're in possession and both are able to launch attacks quickly due to their passing ability, defensively they are to watch runs from the opposition midfield who will be dangerous, both are very tactically educated and comfortable playing this way. Wijnaldum will be tasked with pushing the team forwards in the attacking phase and arriving late in the box.
Our attacking midfield trio are absolutely crucial to the way we want to attack, KDB is somewhat free of defensive responsibility unless under pressure as both Robben and Reus are very hard working and able to get up and down the pitch for 90 minutes, in defence it will become a 4-4-1-1 while the offensive ability and styles of Reus and Robben means the formation automatically becomes a 4-3-3 when in possession. Their pace and intelligence in making runs will cause havoc for the the opposition defence and their records speak for themselves when creating and taking chances.
Higuain will play as the centre forward, his pace and energy will be crucial in pressurising the defensive midfielder of the opposition and he never stops running. When we obtain possession his first job is to get on the shoulder of the centre halves and make runs in behind and stretch the defence, this is crucial in creating gaps between the midfield and defence of the opposition for Reus, KDB and Robben to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on Barry for KDB. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.
If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Coutinho for De Rossi. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Wijnaldum will drop back to DM to control the game while Coutinho and KDB will dominate from behind Higuain as well as adding an extra goal threat in a 4-1-4-1. Robben on right and Reus goes to the left.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Son for KDB. Attacking 4-4-2 with Coutinho and Wijnaldum in the middle and Robben on the right Reus on the left. Higuain and Son up front.
———————————Bravo
———Azpilicueta——Alderweireld——Koulibaly
G.Castro————Danilo———Rakitic————Marcelo
————Aubameyang——————Griezmann
———————————Lukaku
Subs: Courtois, Christensen, Casemiro, Koke, Carrasco, Charly Musonda, Cornet
Captain: Cesar Azpilicueta
Free Kicks: Antoine Griezmann/Ivan Rakitic
Penalties: Pierre Emerik Aubameyang
Corners: Ivan Rakitic
We continue with the 5 and 5 system we’ve adopted however this week we make a slight change in formation that allows us to go with two or three up front when we attack so that we can take advantage of an unfair fight all across the key central areas of the field. Once again we look to use our excellent energy to press really high up and keep United under a constant flow of pressure, using a compact system, lines close together when defending to suffocate United before we start to spread on the ball to open the game up.
Defend from the front, right from the off and as soon as United gain possession, using the 3 forwards and the WBs as the high block of 5 to press United, Lukaku into the face of the DMs/CBs with Aubameyang and Griezmann closing in on the area of play and looking to block the route out wide, with Castro and Marcelo pushed right up onto the United wide men, tight to them and making sure they can’t be used as United’s out ball, force them to go into the middle and as soon as they make that forward pass everyone closes in on the man on the ball and cut off the support from his team mates, Rakitic and Danilo pushed right onto the United attacking midfielders and Griezmann and Auba hounding the man on the ball, Castro and Marcelo tucked further infield to add to the pressure, all the while blocking the wide route, with the 3 CBs pushed up and surrounding the CF so he can’t find an inch of space. Suffocating our opponents in such a manner will allow us to win possession quickly when its been lost and stay on the front foot throughout, always using the two closest men to the ball to press the ball with their team mates focused on squeezing the space and closing the passing routes.
If United get into wide areas they’ll find the route to goal blocked by a 3-2-5 press down the flanks, WBs and AMs doubling up against their wide players and looking to win the battles from there, with Lukaku as the out ball and the opposite AM and our CMs narrowing to the play to block Wellington’s route in field, the three CBs coming across, again allowing us to keep a compact defensive press, they give us that extra protection if United work the ball out. In the high press we will use Azpi and Koulibaly as forward thinking aggressive defenders, always looking to get to the ball in front of the attackers, Azpi with his determination and energy and Koulibaly in their to give Cavani a real physical dual, with Alderweireld as the cover, Azpi also provides us with someone who can go and close the ball down quickly in wide attacks if Castro is caught out. If United force us deeper we transition to a 4-4-2, Azpi and Marcelo as FBs keeping a narrow defence and midfield, focusing on blocking the space rather than putting all out pressure on the man on the ball, patiently waiting for a mistake and looking to quickly release Auba and Lukaku who pose a serious threat on the counter.
Attack starts right from the keeper with he and ‘defensive’ block of 5 looking to feed the high block of 5 into space. When we get the ball Azpi and Koulibaly pull wide and Castro and Marcelo push right up into the attacking 5, looking to force the wingers to follow them back, allowing the spread out CBs to drag Uniteds attempted press away from the middle to create gaps in the midfield third, Azpi and Koulibaly wide stretching them out and Alderweireld as the initial playmaker with his pressing range. When we draw Uniteds forwards out to press it should free Danilo and Rakitic into space, Danilo will be restricted in his play, just looking to move it quickly but his discipline as well as 3 CBs to cover should allow a more free role for Rakitic who will look to find the central gaps, get on the ball and connect defence to attack, being the deep lying playmaker with his energy to cover large spaces at pace and taking advantage of a lack of willingness to run backwards from Ozil and the like. This then leaves the high 5, WBs pushing right up the field looking to be the players who make the field really wide, keep Uniteds wide players focused on defending the flanks so that Rakitic and the 3 central forward players can out number United in the midfield and really hurt their defence. When we attack through the middle we will have Griezmann in a free role where he’s at his best, able to drop deeper to launch attacks and able to run at defenders and DMs and put them on the back foot. Auba and Lukaku then look to play as CFs, occupying the two CBs and running off each other, so that when one drops into the open midfield spaces the other looks to spin in behind. In central attacks we can also use direct balls from Alderweireld to Lukaku and get Griezmann and Auba running off them. When we need to stretch things more we look to attack wide areas, getting the ball out to the WB and then having the AM on the side go out and double up with him, with both WBs excellent at playing quick one touch football to get into the box or to the byeline to cross, we can open them up down the flank and then use the two CFs again to our advantage, one coming towards the front post to drag a CB with him leaving more space for the other CF to attack in the middle of the box. Both Marcelo and Castro are excellent infield which allows them to make inside runs when Griezmann and Auba run wide, another option to really drag United about. The important thing is to always move them about, Griezmann, Auba, Rakitic, Lukaku is not a fair fight for United central defensive players and we need to take advantage of that today.
Subs:
If Winning: Casemiro and Koke for Rakitic and Lukaku 70’, Koke RAM with Auba up front, intelligent players on and off the ball to continue our control over the game. Christensen for Castro, Azpi to RWB 80’.
If Drawing: Carrasco for Castro 70’, fresh legs and someone to play really high up the field and stretch the game right out, run at Baines/Bernat and test them defensively. Koke for Danilo 75’, looks to move the ball forward faster, knowing he and Rakitic have 3 defenders behind for cover. Cornet for Lukaku 80’, speed and finishers instincts up against a tiring back line.
If Losing: Azpilicueta off, Carrasco on 65’, 4-4-2 with Castro and Carrasco and Marcelo and Griezmann looking to double up down the flanks. Koke for Lukaku 70’, Koke LAM, Griezmann up top where we can get the best from him. Cornet for Danilo 80’, Koke into CM, Cornet up front, we play a 4-2-4 and really throw the kitchen sink at them.
STOKE CITY v Arsenal
Line Up:
Rulli
Sagna Marquinhos Koscielny Luis
Gustavo
Sterling Kovacic Herrera Ribery
Benzema
Substitutes: Bettinelli; Jedvaj; Coentrao; Bernardo Silva; Schurrle; Paredes; Jese Rodriguez
Captain: Koscielny
Penalties: Benzema
Corners: Ribery
Free Kicks: Ribery
Game Plan:
We are setting up in a 4-1-4-1 formation that will give us the most flexibility in both attack and defence. This formation gives us the ability to pack the middle of the park with bodies in defence and then break forward on the counter with speed and precision.
We will be content to sit deep in our own half, preserving energy and not wasting it by closing down their back line – by sitting deep we will invite their defence to move further up the pitch as they look to keep the distance between their defence and midfield manageable, which will be to our advantage.
When Arsenal gets the ball in our half, we want to set up with two banks of 4, with the defence just in front of the edge of the area and the midfield midway along our half of the pitch. With Gustavo playing a sweeping role between the two banks and Benzema sitting on the halfway line to keep their centre backs pinned back, we are confident that we will be able to congest the middle and negate the pace and flair of the Arsenal players.
With Di Maria out of action, Arsenal’s playmaking ability will take a big hit but they still have some very good players behind the forwards and, of course, Ronaldo up front who will get goals if he is given the time and space. With that in mind, we want to stick Koscielny on Ronaldo all game to stop him from drifting in to areas where he can hurt us. Koscielny is physically capable of keeping tabs on Ronaldo and he is also a very smart, experienced centre back who can read the game well. This frees up Marquinhos to cover against any other attacking threats. Given Tino’s tendencies, we expect Arsenal to line up with two forwards, which means one apiece for our centre backs and Gustavo to cover should any other Gooners wish to join the attack.
We want our two full backs to tuck in close to the centre backs in this formation to minimise the ability of Arsenal’s forward line to move around and stretch the play. With our wide midfielders tracking the runs of the full backs and doubling up with our own full backs to prevent being outnumbered, we are confident that we will be able to track their runs down the flank and nullify their crossing ability, and any attempts to cut inside will simply run in to too much traffic.
In the middle of the pitch, we are playing Hector Herrera and Mateo Kovacic, two central midfielders with good engines, plenty of tenacity in the tackle and enough technical ability to get things ticking over at the other end of the pitch. These two will be expected to be lively in the centre, looking to press on any Arsenal players that attempt to carry the ball through the middle and disrupt play so that Arsenal can’t start any fluid attacks. They will also be the first line of our attack as they will be looking to regain possession in the middle of the park and immediately initiate the counter.
By playing a deep, counter attacking game (think in terms of Man Utd v Arsenal circa 2009) we will invite the opposition defence to come forward, which will leave a lot of space in behind and highlight major flaws in their back line.
As soon as we get hold of the ball, we will be looking to break forward quickly and in numbers. With Benzema up top, he has perfected the art of holding up play and bringing pacey wingers in to the game and he will be looking to do that with Ribery and Sterling bombing down the wings. Kovacic and Herrera will also be looking to move up the pitch with pace which will give us a staggered five-prong attack in a kind-of zig-zag formation, with Ribery, Sterling and Benzema heading the trident and Kovacic and Herrera providing the support.
By going forward quickly in numbers we will be looking to, not only, overload Arsenal’s defence (especially if their offensive minded full backs have ventured forward) by stretching it out and causing their players to furiously back track, but it also gives us enough players in reserve to deal with any counter-counter attacks. This too will be highlighted in a zig-zag formation, with Luis, Gustavo and Sagna as the first line Marquinhos and Koscielny at the second. This serves the dual purpose of providing a bit of slack in our formation so that we can’t be undone by a long ball over the top and it also provides an outlet for our players so that Utd can’t just squeeze our attempted offensive in to one corner and stifle the attack.
I want to make it clear, also, that if we happen to lose possession in the counter, we absolutely must rush back to get in to our defensive positions and prepare for the next offensive.
Substitutions:
70 minutes: Schurrle for Sterling and Paredes for Herrera: Schurrle will add fresh legs, a good work ethic and some brilliant finishing abilities to the cause while Paredes will take up his holding role, similar to how he does at Roma, alongside Gustavo, bolstering defence and allowing Kovacic more freedome to influence the play.
75 minutes: Bernardo Silva for Ribery: With Silva and Schurrle now on, we have two wingers who are adept at playing on either flank and centrally, this means that these two players will be given the freedom to drift around the pitch in to areas where they can be most effective, looking specifically for that weak spot in the opposition defence.
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Tactics
Page 29 of 65
30 | 31 | 32 | 33 | 34
posted on 30/9/16
---------------------- DeGea --------------------
P.Lahm --- J.Stones --- Bonucci --- Umtiti
-------------- Lemina ---- Gomes -------------
Gabigol ------------ Pogba ---------- Neymar
---------------------- Dybala --------------------
Butland, Boateng, Diawara, Dele Alli, Pjaca, Sanchez, Aguero
A cup game v a tough side, a few changes but really like for like, so same system, same quick play on the deck and ball to feet..
In goal De Gea, a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, shouting instructions to his defenders. Out very quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.
Bonucci in beside Stones today, on this occassion Bonucci will man mark the CF. Bonucci is quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, powerfully built so marking the CF should be no trouble as he has to man up to him, will keep him away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Stones alongside is fantastic in the air, so will mark any other big players that come into our danger area, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger. Both are comfortable on the ball and can bring it out from defence but when in no danger and no erseing about with it, also both go up for corners and are a huge threat as the two fullbacks and Lemina hang back.
Lahm and Umtiti at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Lahm and Umtiti are perfect for this . They will look to keep them away from shooting areas where is dangerous in any position. This is a vital clash in this game. They will be up against quality wingers so look to force him away from goal and backwards. I want them to attack when in no danger so time these runs perfectly. One sits back a bit and allowing the other to attack, this is keeping a 3 at the back at all times. Their marking abilities are sound, both have good positional sense and very quick, do not make rash desicions and will stay on their feet. Both FBs can attack. When one goes the other stays as they look to make an extra man down the flank for our wingers to cut inside or play neat one twos to free the wingers up as there fullbacks get dragged out of position.
Lemina in for the injured Busquets to stop the AM getting the ball from midfield to the striker, he must be right on top of him looking to close him down at the quickest opportunity, let him dictate play and there striker will get plenty chances, we must not let this happen. So quick and into him, fairly and stop this! Lemina himself will look to dictate from deep as he picks up from the defence and looks to drive us forward with precision passing. Gomes v the second most advanced midfielder much the same, but obvs when we have the ball he is allowed to move forward and push him back, Gomes should have a bit of time to look around him for the pass, So he will look to find his team mates with ease. Use his upper body strength to get him away from the player. Pass and move always look for the return pass. When they have then close down the CM, he will look to ping the ball about so get to him before that opportunity arises. We have put Pogba in a No.10 role or just slightly withdrawn No.10 against there DM he must be strong, Pogba is an all round fantastic midfielder, however he will look to take the DM on one v one drag him about open up spaces for others to drive into, with the ball at feet look to play quick one twos with those around him so he makes the runs into the box looking for that return ball that will get him in on goal. If the ball is played to him with his back to goal hold it up, draw the foul from the DM, if it doesnt come then look to lay it off, look to play the slide pass into Dybala. All three are good all round midfielders, But Lemina i want to sit in the hole with the two either side when defending.
Neymar and Gabigol are known for their creativity, speed, and technical ability and are fearless, explosive attacking midfielders who can change the game with a turn of pace or a dribble. More importantly both scorers of wonderful and important goals. Both technically excellent in limited areas, fast explosive acceleration during the first ten yards. Which more often than not takes them passed defenders and allows them to get into dangerous areas. Always play with there heads up looking for the runs of others to get the ball into there feet. When they have the ball look to stick close to fullbacks and stop them coming forward. Just track the fullbacks and use pace to get back and in around there faces to stop them becoming a threat. Always be looking for Pogba inside as the three make an awesome trio attack wise in behind Dybala and a scary proposition for the Pompey back line
Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. Dybala is surprisingly good in the air and two good feet, can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front four/five will be a threat today we must go for it and keep pace with the league leaders. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Neymar and Gabigol running into support. Pogba will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side
Captain - Lahm
Penalties - Dybala/Aguero
Free kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Subs:-
Losing
65 Mins - Aguero for Gomes, he goes up top with Dybala sitting just off his shoulder, Pogba drops in beside Lemina.
75 Mins - Sanchez for Gabigol a straight switch, fresh legs and a goal threat
85 Mins - Pjaca for Lahm - 3 at the back, Pjaca to the LW & Neymar goes up top 343
Winning -
75 Mins - Sanchez for Gabigol helps track back, Diawara for Gomes, a more defensive CM
80 Mins - Aguero for Dybala
Drawing -
70 Mins - D.Alli for Gomes, Pogba drops into CM, Aguero for Dybala, Sanchez for Gabigol triple change to have fresh legs and have a go
posted on 30/9/16
------------------Forster-------------------
Holding--van Dijk--Kompany--Denayer
Mahrez---N.Kante--Dembele---Draxler
--------------------Fekir--------------------
-----------------Lacazette-----------------
Pickford, Shaw, Benassi, Haddadi, Silva, Milik, Berahino
Forster behind the back four which is a solid defence, with the keeper shouting when he comes out for the ball, he will punch clear what he cant catch and look to release the ball early
Kompany takes the free role at the back, he sits spare whilst van Dijk picks up the CF. While van Dijk is picking up the CF, Kompany takes a step off him as he will be mindful of the CF if he gets away from van Dijk or indeed any other attacker that comes through. Both need to be strong in the defence, they cannot be bullied by the CF or any other attackers, although they are both powerful boys. van Dijk must make desicions quickly to where he has to be and not make rash desicions, that is where Kompany helps him. They attack all high balls, they must stick tight as we are playing two attacking fullbacks, Both top class with the ball, so if they are feeling comfortable then move out with the ball.
Holding and Denyaer are in for their defensive attributes as we will be up agianst it v Ronaldo & Co, both are allowed to attack but will be sporadic.
I really want a solid back four today as Arsenals attack is unbelievably good, so defend the lines dont let anyone passed without at least challenging them. Make it as difficult as possible to get passed them. Hold firma nd stay tall, both strong and young so keeping them back should be ok. They can go forward but look to pass it to our midfield first and foremost and dont get too carried away.
We are going to look and play a compact midfield to reduce the time they have on the ball. Dembele and Kante will be sitting in with either making the occassional run forward, one of them must sit in at all times. I want them to break their attack up very quickly and get the ball forward or out to our fullbacks. Kante takes up the main role of marking there attacking midfielder. He is a very in your face type character and will hunt you down very quickly as is Dembele so there midfielders wont have much time on the ball. Both very powerful players in the centre of my midfield.
Mahrez and Draxler will play with freedom to attack and support Fekir and Lacazette,they have a lot of skill so can pick these players out easily when we break forward and as we break forward they can cut inside and allow our fullbacks to get beyond them to put in the cross, it may seem as if we are being withdrawn today but with cover from the fullbacks the wingers have a little more freedom to break forward. Mahrez and Draxler will push wide to stop there fullbacks if needed. Close control from our midfield pass quickly and look to get around there players. Our fullbacks are important today as midfielders when we attack, we need lots of energy and drive from them.
Fekir will be the link that will get the ball from midfield to attack, his passing is sublime. Will have his head up at all times and pick team mates out easily breaking down there defensive lines with ease, quick one touch passing to the front three and they will be in on goal very quickly. If he has to drop deep to get possession of the ball then so be it, he has the freedom to do so. Links very well with Lacazette
Lacazette is a fantastic outlet up front as he can not only take players on with his pace but is strong enough to hold off players to allow others to come in and support, especially Fekir who will be up in support a lot, always looking to go for goal and two good feet, with support from our fullbacks, Draxler and Mahrez also this is a very quick and powerul front line always driving forward and hopefully that defenders will fear. We must drive at them non stop, we have subs which we will use.
Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Lacazette
Free Kicks - Mahrez
Corners - Wingers
Substitutes
if we are losing Silva and Haddadi will come on for Fekir and Draxler on 65 minutes with Berahino coming on for Holding on 80 minutes and he will go up front
If we are winning then Benassi for Fekir and Milik for Lacazette on 75 Minutes
Drawing then Milik for Lacazette, Haddadi for Draxler and Silva for Fekir
posted on 30/9/16
the drawing subs on 70 minutes sorry I missed that bit
posted on 30/9/16
Injuries - Mertens, Hamsik, Vardy
-----------------------------------------Cech--------------------------------
Walker---------------Toprak------------Verthonghen-----------------Rose
---------------------------------------Carvalho----------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mario-------------------------------------------------------------------------Nolito
---------------------------------------Calhanoglu-------------------------------------------
----------------------------Depay------------------Rashford-----------------
Subs - Zieler, Ake, Young, Konoplyanka, Moutinho, Florenzi, Janssen
CAPTAIN - CECH
CK'S - CALHANOGLU
FK'S - CALHANOGLU
PENALTIES - RASHFORD
A cup game this week against rof so trying a different formation seeing as he has a lot of big names injured. This 41212 formation is solid in defence but also very attacking with 2 strikers up front and an AM playing behind them.
Defence
I got a world class keeper in goal so he will be hard to beat. The defence is well balanced. Toprak and Verthonghen are an excellent partnership and bring experience at the back. Toprak brings that old school no nonsense defending. Stay strong and if the opposition play 1 up front than stay close to him and not let him turn. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box.
Defence Mid
Carvalho
He will be ultra defensive mode, covering for our players when they are out of position and marking the oppo AM and strikers. Don't stray too far forward and if you have possession of the ball pass it to a teammate asap. Only job is to defend.
Wingers
Mario + Nolito
Giving these 2 a start this week. Nolito isn't yiur typical pacy winger, he is a very good dribbler and is very good at keeping hold of the ball. Play quick passes and try and carve open the oppo defence with intricate play. Be ready for the counter attack as and Mario are deadly on them. Mario will be more focused primarily on beating the left back on the outside and getting to the byline to get a decent cross in. Confuse the oppo left back by twisting and turning and you are also good at using your left foot so if you cut in and shoot you can. I want you both to help track back and help the full backs when they are in our half of the pitch.
Attack Mid
Calhanoglu
Shoot if you see a chance. Use your playmaking ability to create chances. Play quick passes with the players around you and try and find space inbetween the oppo players.
Strike
Depay + Rashford
I want you both to use your pace to try and beat the offside trap. Rashford, you have a lot of stamina so when the opposition CB'S have the ball I want you to close them down and pressure them. Try and bring other players into the game. Pass and move is the way to go. With two fast pacy strikers up front, we're bound to create chances on the counter.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Janssen for Rashford. Also bring on Konoplayanka for Nolito and Florenzi for Calhanoglu. Play a high line and try and get a goal.
Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take of Calhanoglu and put on Ake in CB and play 5atb ultra defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives. Janssen for Rashford aswell.
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Rashford off for Janssen
Calhanoglu off for Florenzi
Nolito off for Konoplyanka
posted on 1/10/16
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
5. Zabaleta — 3. Bailly — 4. Benatia — 6. Sandro
—————— 16. De Rossi —— 29. Xhaka
7. Mkhitaryan ————— 17. De Bruyne ————— 11. Reus
————————————— 9. Higuain
SUBS: 31. Begovic, 12. Smalling, 8. Coutinho, 38. Barry, 23. Eriksen, 39. Son, 49. Niang
Captain: Marco Reus
Corners: Kevin de Bruyne
Crossing free-kicks: Kevin de Bruyne
Shooting free-kicks: Marco Reus
Penalties: Marco Reus
We stick to a 4-2-3-1 counter attack and again a near full strength side with Mkhitaryan coming into the side bringing his tactical intelligence with him, helping with dominating the midfield alongside KDB and Reus. Up against a strong opposition team today in what is a crucial game for Aston Villa’s chances at getting a trophy we need a win and so we are very motivated, we expect the opposition to be looking to dominate, we usually play this way too, however with our greater experience and the pace on the break of our front 4 we're going to play more on the counter attack leaving very little space between the lines of midfield and defence when defending.
The advantage of the 4-2-3-1 formation in terms of counter attacking is it is very easy to change quickly from defence to attack and create superior number situations in the opposition half of the pitch with the 4 rows of players on the pitch, what is a 4-5-1 in defensive situations can very quickly become a 4-3-3 in attack.
The block of four of Benatia Bailly De Rossi and Xhaka will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. De Rossi and Xhaka will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line while Bailly will mark their striker tightly with Benatia sweeping behind if he does get through. KDB will come back in the defending phase to help win the ball back with the two midfielders.
Oblak will play in goal, his talents are obvious to anyone, fantastic shot stopper and very good coming off his line so he can sweep up any balls in behind and someone capable of wonder saves.
The first line of our formation is the defence, the full backs Zabaleta and Sandro are extremely fit and very strong in defence and tactically aware of their roles in this system which is crucial, they are to make the job of the wide attackers of the opposition as difficult as possible not allowing them to make runs in between themselves and the centre halves, keeping them as wide as possible and as far from goal as possible, good communication from the centre halves is crucial.
The two midfielders De Rossi and Xhaka are our second line of defence and attack, by playing two deeper lying players they can rotate, one of them will always be available for the ball when we're in possession and both are able to launch attacks quickly due to their passing ability, defensively they are to watch runs from the opposition midfield who will be dangerous, both are very tactically educated and comfortable playing this way. Xhaka will be tasked with pushing the team forwards in the attacking phase and arriving late in the box.
Our attacking midfield trio are absolutely crucial to the way we want to attack, KDB is somewhat free of defensive responsibility unless under pressure as both Mkhitaryan and Reus are very hard working and able to get up and down the pitch for 90 minutes, in defence it will become a 4-4-1-1 while the offensive ability and styles of Reus and Mkhitaryan means the formation automatically becomes a 4-3-3 when in possession. Their pace and intelligence in making runs will cause havoc for the the opposition defence and their records speak for themselves when creating and taking chances.
Higuain will play as the centre forward, his pace and energy will be crucial in pressurising the defensive midfielder of the opposition and he never stops running. When we obtain possession his first job is to get on the shoulder of the centre halves and make runs in behind and stretch the defence, this is crucial in creating gaps between the midfield and defence of the opposition for Reus, KDB and Mkhitaryan to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on Barry for KDB. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.
If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Coutinho for De Rossi. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Xhaka will drop back to DM to control the game while Coutinho and KDB will dominate from behind Higuain as well as adding an extra goal threat in a 4-1-4-1. Mkhitaryan on right and Reus goes to the left.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Son for KDB. Attacking 4-4-2 with Coutinho and Xhaka in the middle and Mkhitaryan on the right Coutinho on the left. Higuain and Son up front.
posted on 1/10/16
---------------------------Batalla-----------------------
---Piszczek-----Dragovic----Blind-----Hector-----
------------------Carvalho-----Wanyama------------
----------Marlos----------Gotze-------Pastore-----
----------------------------Icardi----------------------
Subs: Lovren, Gaya, Kranevitter, Witsel, A. Silva, Taison, Origi.
Game Plan: Cup game so we are not holding back against Liverpool. We are going to set up with our attacking game plan and really take the game to them. We will look to overload through the middle of the park and really work their midfielders defensively whilst our full backs bomb forward to create the width. We have our solid defensive base in midfield to help cover but we need to take the game to Liverpool and make this an exciting game.
Batalla makes his first start. Promising goalkeeper with plenty about him. A real test up against Liverpool's front men but it's crucial he plays his best game.
Piszczek and Hector are our 2 full backs. They are our width. They have the license to really push on down the flanks allowing both of Liverpool's wingers to track them and really pin them in. They need to be defensively sound and force their wingers as far away from the goal as possible and closing them down quickly to stop crosses coming in. But they need to be our width going forward whipping some dangerous crosses into the box from wide areas.
Dragovic and Blind will be our two centre backs. A mixture of strength and ball playing ability, it's important we stay sharp on their front man. They are likely to play with a nimble striker who has lightning pace, so they have to be positioned well to deal with him and restrict space for him to run in behind. Dragovic man marks, a powerful defender up against their front man. All of his tackles need to be firm but clean and he needs to let their forward know that he is in a game. He must be close to him at all times. Blind acts as the sweeper in this case. This is so he can position himself well for balls through our defensive line and so when he recovers possession, we can look to build from the back as he has a very good passing range and we can look to launch attacks quickly.
Carvalho and Wanyama are our base midfielders. These 2 are crucial to make sure we don't get split wide open when on the break. When our full backs move forward, they must drop in and cover for them so we don't leave space in our defence. They have plenty of rigidity in that pairing along with a lot of running ability and power. Their tackles need to be also firm and clean and they can not allow the man playing off the front of their main forward any space or time to pick passes and cause our defence trouble. Any midfield runners need to be picked up and marked tightly.
Marlos, Gotze and Pastore are our 3 more central attacking midfielders. We need to really look to overload through the middle and really make their midfielders work and get their legs running. When they have the ball deep in midfield, we press on them hard to make them rush passes. There has to be a fluidity and movement to make them difficult to pick up. Icardi is up front to link with them with his movement, one of them needs to be close to him, feeding off him so we can continue building our attacks and 2 of them need to be looking to make runs beyond Icardi to test the concentration of the midfield to see if they track. They need to look to pick up pockets of space in the midfield with a man over and play passes through gaps in their defence so we can get in behind. Looking wide for our full backs if we need the width.
Icardi is our front man, a typical number 9. He has plenty of support in behind him so he needs to be receiving the ball, continuing fluid attacking moves, being involved in the build up play and looking to be the end product at the end of it all. It's important that he links with the midfield and has plenty of movement making it tough for their defenders to pick him up and mark him. He needs to be on the end of our moves where possible and especially on the end of the crosses into the box.
Substitutions:
If winning:
Icardi Off - On Origi - Fresh legs up front to press the defence and looking to run in behind. (75 mins)
Marlos Off - On Witsel - Sitting in DM with Carvalho and Wanyama, making it tough for them to break us down. (75 mins)
Wanyama Off - On Kranevitter - Fresh legs in the midfield to do the running in the final 10 minutes. (80 mins)
If drawing:
Pastore Off - On Origi - Changing to a 4-2-2-2 so we can put their defence under more pressure. (70 mins)
Marlos Off - On Taison - Adding more dynamism and extravagant style to our attacking play in midfield. (70 mins)
Carvalho Off - On Lovren - Blind into DM, Lovren CB keeping an eye on their front man. (70 mins)
If losing:
Wanyama Off - On Origi - 4-1-3-2 formation, really going for broke going forward. (70 mins)
Piszczek Off - On Lovren - 3 CB's now, forcing an extra man forward for our attacks, 3-1-4-2 formation. (75 mins)
Hector Off - On Taison - Adding that dynamism and extravagant style to our attacking play as we go for it. (75 mins)
posted on 1/10/16
4-4-1-1 Total football
High tempo energetic football played at pace in attack and defence.
A compact 4-4-1-1 in defence that will be difficult to breakdown. Getting two lines behind the ball. Sane and Costa pressing in front of them. The opposition are missing their main striker, and so we push up, pressing high up the pitch.
When we attack, we get forward in numbers. One fb will be in line with the sitting cm, with the other fb bombing forward. Giving us numbers that can break forward at pace and overload Brum.
We have a midfield 4 full of energy, all offering attack and defence. One of the cms, will sit deep while the other attacks. We’ll look to get the ball wide, attack down the wings. Kroos who has played at dm for Real at times, in a box to box role dictating the play.
We get the ball forward as quickly as possible. Fbs and wingers doubling up and linking with Sane to work up the park and get the ball to Costa in the box.
When we lose possession, we hold a high, compact, defensive unit that narrows towards the play. Getting behind the ball. We let Brum have the ball in their own third. As soon as they look to play to a midfielder, or bring the ball forward themselves, Costa and Sane press from the front.
----------------- S.Rico
Danilo – Ramos – Elvedi - Ghoulam
Brozovic – Kroos – Vidal - Willian
--------------- L.Sane
---------------D.Costa
Subs. Bentley, Kurzawa, Bazoer, Strootman, Hazard, Correa, Oyarzabal
Defensive
Don’t let them play.
We look to press the opposition high up the pitch as soon as they look to play out from the back. We let their defenders have the ball, but as soon as it goes to their midfielders we are all over them. Costa blocking the pass to the cbs and a winger pressing the fb, with the team as a unit pushing up behind them in two banks of 4. Narrowing to the side of play.
Sane narrows to the side of play picking up any wide midfielders coming deep, while the opposite winger tucks inside to narrow our unit and keep us compact, and limiting the options they have to play out.
The midfield four is in a compact zig zag shape. The cm closest and the opposite winger sitting deeper. The closest winger and further cm away press. Allowing us to cover horizontal and vertical angles on the field, and cover space more effectively. Covering the high press with a further two mids behind. Give them no options to play through. Force them to make mistakes and take chances.
When the opposition do get the ball to the midfield, our 4 man midfield drops deeper. Keeping numbers behind the ball, pressing in our unit.
We aim to have 10 players behind the ball defending and keeping Brum high up the park at all times. Sane always looking to press the ball with two lines of 4 behind him. Defending in numbers, in a rigid compact unit that will be difficult to break through.
Attacking
As soon as we win the ball we look to get Kroos on the ball, use his passing to open up the opposition. Getting forward to our wingers and Sane as quickly as possible. Put the opposition under pressure. The trio are given freedom to take players on.
Use the pace of the trio to get them in behind where possible, Kroos and Brozovic will always be looking to play through balls or balls over the top. Vidal or Kroos looking to break forward and support.
The midfield should never be flat. Create as many lines as possible to increase the options we have in possession, and to create gaps in the opposition. Our wide attackers, and the attacking fb look to give us width and stretch the game.
Costa up top is always ready for a long diagonal to put him straight through on goal. We will vary our play going forward, looking to go direct if a ball is on.
Subs.
If drawing or winning after 65 mins bring on Hazard for Sane.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Correa for Brozovic. Super sub. Willian to rw. Correa lw.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Strootman for Vidal. Fresh energy.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Kurzawa for Brozovic. Willian rw. Kurzawa lw. Fresh pace.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Correa for Costa.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Hazard for Brozovic. 4-3-3. Willian to cm. Sane rw. Hazard lw.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Kurzawa for Ghoulam. More attacking.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Correa for Sane. Super sub.
posted on 1/10/16
--------------------Leno
Coleman—Ginter---Evans—Milner
--------------Dier-------Can
--------------------Mor
Moura---------Cavani--------Anderson
Caceres
McCarthy
Ramsey
Candreva
Hughes
Martinez
Bolasie
A younger and more energetic side has been picked for today. We feel that we combine an attacking threat featuring plenty of pace and width, with a defensive stronghold that will be difficult to break down.
We have plenty of experience in our two full back options today, with both consistently playing at a high standard. They will be given a license to bomb forward and support the attack, provided that they know that their respective wingers are being covered elsewhere.
I have chosen to partner Evans and Ginter today. I expect Evans to man mark their lone striker, limiting their chances by removing their snake’s head. Without him playing well they will not be able to create as many chances. Ginter will play a more covering role, mopping up anything that may get past either our full backs or Evans. He is also capable of covering for Coleman should he be caught too far forward.
I have gone for a more defensive pivot in the midfield, with Can and Dier both playing in deep roles to help nullify the threat of Hull’s attacking midfielders and wingers. They are both energetic players capable of patrolling that area and neither will be afraid to get themselves stuck in and break up the opposition play. Both are capable to slot into the full back positions as cover, but only one should do this at a time.
I’m giving More the license to be a free spirit in the attacking midfield position. It is his role to find space and exploit it, whether that means taking the ball down the flanks or dropping in just in front or behind the Hull defensive midfielders. He is good with both his feet and will prove a very technical threat to the opposition defence.
In Moura and Anderson we have two very fast and skilful players to cause havoc with the opposition full backs. We feel that they can terrorise the opposition with these attributes, taking advantage of the space that the opoosition may leave by sending their forwards through to contribute to their attack.
Cavani epitomises the energy and movement that we have up front. He can get around and use his experience and engine to take advantage of an inexperienced defence. We have to use the energy that we have in the final third to create plenty of chances for Cavani, because we know that we can get a few goals with our players ganging up on the opposition centre backs.
For this entire plan to work we need to concentrate on getting our creative players in behind the defence. This can be achieved by having Cavani constantly moving in the centre, tiring out their defensive players and keeping their centre backs preoccupied so that our wide men can exploit the space and make runs into the penalty area, either drawing fouls and earning free kicks/penalties, or getting shots away to test the opposition keeper.
In short, our defensive system is one of solidity, with multiple players capable of tackling and throwing themselves into the way of the ball and pushing them out wide, where their players cannot prove as threatening. We must show bravery in the tackle and in the blocks, attacking from the full backs, whilst also keeping our shape. This can be achieved by having midfielders capbel of covering, as well as starting play themselves.
When the ball is picked up in midfied then Dier and Can have many options. They have to release the ball quickly so we can hit them on the counter, either playing cross field balls to our wingers, going shorter to Mor or releasing the full backs to bomb forward. We will not be playing with the ball at the back. A similar policy will be undertaken if Evans or Ginter picks up the play.
Attacking wise, we have plenty of players that are capable of stretching and tiring out the opposition. Moura, Mor and Anderson will look to get in behind the lines and exploit space to create chances for our world class striker in the box. Both our wingers are also capable of swapping flanks, adding to the aspect of confusion that we are intending to impart in the opposition defence.
We can also pose a threat from corners, with Cavani, Evans, Ginter and Dier all posing as threats in the air. Corners and free kicks will be aimed at these four players, with Moura, Milner and Anderson waiting around the edge of the box to pick up on the second calls and force chances on goal.
Substitutes.
70 mins
Bolasie and Candreva on, Anderson and Moura off – Fresh legs and plenty of pace off the bench mean that we are capable of playing our attacking style of football for the entire game. Bolasie will also be able to use his strength to force open a tiring defence and give us some chances.
If losing
70 mins
Can off, Sanabria on – Go two up top and throw the kitchen sink at our opponents. Dier offers us defensive cover, but Sanabria means we can get more men in the box to get on the end of chances created by Candreva and Bolasie.
If winning
70 mins
Can off, McCarthy on – Fresh legs in central midfield so that we can keep up a high attacking game whilst having the legs to deal with potential counter attacks.
Captain: Milner
Penalties: Milner
Free kicks: Mor
Corners: Mor
posted on 1/10/16
--------------------- Neuer ------------------
Alves -------- Mustafi -- Hummels -- Digne
-------------------- Khedira -----------------
-------------- Matuidi -- Gundogan --------
Costa ---------- Lewandoswki ------- Payet
Subs: Navas, Carvajal, Savic, Carrick, Coman, Martial, Morata
Attacking 4-3-3, pace, power, possession, high work rate and discipline.
First game of the group, Chelsea are a strong side but have lost some key players to injury, we go in with a strong side looking to dominate in central areas, getting our most influential players on the ball as much as possible and taking the game to the opposition.
Emphasis will be on controlling the midfield, key to our attacking based possession game, i want a pack mentality always looking to have more numbers then the opposition in this area, winning the ball back through squeezing tightly and playing our attackers in early when the opposition are off their defensive organisation.
Sit deep, we are aware of the pace Chelsea possess going forward, Khedira screens the defence whilst Carvajal sits back too watch for any counters with our 2 CB’s at the back.
Neuer take command of his area and we look to take full advantage of his quality, sweep up at the back efficiently and distribute into space.
We should be quick to bypass their initial phase of pressing, play out from the back but keep it simple, get it into the feet of the midfielders without them having to come deep, as many options further up the field is imperative, bully the opposition and make them chase our shadows.
Our two wingers always stay wide and the front 3 always look to make runs in behind, stretch the opposition and allow our midfield trio to pick you out with ease, roaming into space and quick movement is essential to get at their backline.
Defensively we transition into a 4-1-4-1, two banks of four with a solid structure and organisation. When we press, we press as a unit, high work rate, if one of our players is quick to advance and shut down then his teammates either side must be quick to cut off any of their passing options, isolate and leave no easy option.
If they advance into dangerous areas, we should look to drop deep (10 men behind the ball) and crowd them out, squeeze the space and options in the final 3rd. Midfield and wingers look to provide barriers, these barriers need to make it as difficult as possible to breach our defence, never shy away from defensive responsibilities.
Frustrate the opposition with our organisation, stay rigid and allow their attackers little involvement in the game so they have to come deeper to get involved, make them play in front of us and ensure we prevent runs in behind as much as possible.
In attack we need to create as many lines as possible in midfield to counter their press, into feet with pace, never afraid to go back but look to probe and create gaps, open up space and feed the ball to the attackers.
Diamond in midfield, passing in triangles and using high energy, distribute and get them running after our shadows. The longer we are on the ball, the more they will tire as the game progresses.
We should actively look for one on one situations, take advantage of their injuries at the back, penetrate and create holes and always on the run, never standing still.
Wingers are key as we look to exploit the width on offer, stay wide and look to get it in their feet so we can transition instantly into a counter attacking threat. Look for the runs of the forward and get service into him from wide.
When we win the ball in midfield, Gundogan is the initiator in attack, get him on the ball and looking for an early release, we need his calm presence and eye for a pass, the base for a counter and feeding the ST as much as possible.
Service out from the back, put them off their organisation with diagonal balls over the top into feet, switch the play quickly and allow the attackers to run into space.
Lewandowski strong as an outlet, get our midfield and flankers into the game. Drop deep at times to get involved and dominate the CB's aerially.
Subs:
70th minute - If winning - (4-3-3 )
Carvajal > Alves
Coman > Costa
Morata > Lewandowski
Like for like, stay compact defensively and get Morata on to give their defenders a grilling.
70th minute – if draw - (4-5-1)
Coman > Costa
Morata > Lewandowski
Martial > Payet
5 in MF, create as many lines as possible in mf and get players with pace on, rigid in defence
70th minute - If losing (4-4-2)
Morata > Matuidi
Coman > Costa
Martial > Payet
4-4-2, two banks of four and looking to attack, very direct, getting as much service into the box for the front two to feed off.
C – Neuer
FK’s – Payet (If subbed - Gundogan)
Corners – Payet (If subbed - Gundogan)
Pens - Lewandoswki (If subbed - Morata)
posted on 1/10/16
--------------------------Bravo
G.Castro----Alderweireld-------Koulibaly-----Marcelo
-----------------------Christensen
-----------Griezmann----------------Koke
Williams---------------Aubameyang----------Carrasco
Subs: Courtois, Azpilicueta, Casemiro, Loftus-Cheek, Balde Keita, B.Traore, E.Unal
Captain: Koke
Free Kicks: Koke/Griezmann
Penalties: Aubameyang
Corners: Koke
Still adapting to the system but we keep faith and this week bring in Williams for Rakitic and Christensen for Danilo, Williams looking to provide greater width on the right and Christensen a player who can get us back on the front foot really quickly, whilst being a good one v one defender.
Tactically we go with the 5 and 5 system to allow us to defend higher up and dominate the midfield battle which will be crucial. This means that from the off we press their back line with 5 players, Aubameyang the first line getting in the faces of the CB’s with our two wide men right onto the FBs so City can’t move wide, with Koke and Griezmann able to step up and block the route to the CM players. By using this 5 man block to hurry City up in possession it allows us to set up with a second block of 5 who are organised into positions where they can just mop up the oppositions hurried attempts to get forward. At the head of this block are Marcelo and Castro, two very energetic players who will be quick to mop up anything that gets past our front 5, negating City’s AM trio who all want to play through the middle and making sure that we have the numbers in central areas to control things. If the oppo wide men look to pick pockets of space in the wide areas then the FBs will obviously readjust to deal with that and make sure they follow them. Behind the FBs we have Christensen and the CBs together as a 3 at all times and pushed up to make things compact, between them they have more than enough to deal with the striker, which means that Christensen can focus on following the central AM when he gets into our half, looking to focus solely on marking him out of the game. Alderweireld, Christensen and Koulibaly are all very strong in the air which means they can deal with any long ball forward, between them they have the pace to negate the striker trying to run wide and also all have a good passing range and can look to get us back on the front foot quickly by spreading out in possession to open up space in the middle, forcing the opposition attackers to vacate the middle, when they do so this allows Castro and Marcelo to push high up the field in wide areas to receive the ball and allows Koke to drop into the pocket of midfield space that opens up, with Bravo also excellent at helping us work the ball out, once the attack is into the opposition half Castro and Marcelo can squeeze in again so we can’t be countered.
If they get deep into our half we will begin focusing on controlling space rather than pressing their men, drop off and make sure their are no gaps to play through. At this stage we will look to make things narrow in midfield with the wide forwards dropping in to the midfield as narrow wide men, with Griezmann between them, Christensen and Koke covering the space behind so that City can't play in the lines. Defence drops deep and the FBs narrow to the CBs but in more natural FB positions, keeping the defence narrow and sat deep on the edge of our box means that the oppo can't use their pace to get through us, they will be forced into wide areas and we are strong aerially and can cope with crosses and sideways movement. Force them to keep going side to side and backwards, as soon as the ball is there to be won, stepping in and looking to release the front three. Koulibaly will man mark the CF today with his power, Alderweireld will use his reading of the game to sweep.
Going forward we want to be really positive today, controlling the game by using Castro and Marcelo infield and wide in order to move the opposition about, using their speed to get into City’s attackers quickly and then put us back on the attack. With these two in the midfield positions being disciplined it allows the 5 ahead to have more freedom in attack, they have to move, no standing still we want them all finding spaces. In particular, Koke and Griezmann have crucial roles in making sure things don't get overcrowded, they will look to drift all over the midfield to create chances, looking to get the ball into the three forwards but also make runs wider and look to drag the CMs out of their comfort zones, Koke and Griezmann 2 v 2 against the opposition CM isn’t a fair fight and will leave City vulnerable, from there they can then release the forwards into dangerous positions, either in behind the defence or into space between the lines where we've dragged Wanyama and co out. Griezmann in particular looks to do this job as he's very skilled in wide areas, whilst Koke looks to control the midfield area, dragging players wide when he needs to but mainly looking to dictate our attacks and allow Griezmann to get further ahead of him and make it a front 4. The three forwards then look to use their speed and movement on and off the ball to full effect. Carrasco looks to be the main source of width to really stretch the game, we want to get him up against the RB one v one as he has the beating of him, run him ragged and get balls into the box, or come infield and look to attack the CBs after the RB. Williams llooks to start wide and provide a runner between FB and CB using his incredible pace, with Carrasco holding width it allows Williams to come off the touchline and go and find the spaces, link up with his team mates and attack the goal as much as he can. Aubameyang then looks to get round the sides of the two CBs knowing he has the pace to beat them to any ball through and the instincts in the box to connect with the crosses, he's also adept at dropping deeper and looking to find the runs of Williams and Griezmann beyond him. The further forward we get the tighter it can become and at this stage we will release Marcelo/Castro to go wide, make an overlapping run to stretch the game and allow Williams to make an out to in run, both the two Fbs have excellent crossing. All the while if we lose the ball in the final third we have to become compact quickly, crowd City out and win it back in a matter of seconds.
Subs:
If Winning: Azpilicueta and Casemiro for G.Castro and Christensen 70’, natural RB and natural DM to keep us in control. Loftus-Cheek for Griezmann 75’, big powerful CM to keep us dominating the midfield, like Griezmann he loves to attack the area.
If Drawing: Keita for Carrasco 70’, fresh legs out in the wide area, lots of pace and trickery to hurt the opposition. Traore for Williams 75’, similar style of player, Traore will look to come infield and hit shots on his left foot. Enes Unal for Castro 80’, Christensen to RCB in a 3-5-2 with Marcelo pushed to WB, Traore as a WB and Unal up alongside Auba with Griezmann, Koke and Keita behind them.
If Losing: Loftus-Cheek for Carrasco 65’, 3-5-2 Castro and Marcelo higher up the pitch as WBs with Loftus-Cheek and Koke controlling midfield to allow Griezmann to play close to Williams and Aubameyang. Traore for Williams, Keita for Castro 75’, really go at them now.
posted on 1/10/16
Injuries - Mertens, Hamsik, Vardy
-----------------------------------------Cech--------------------------------
Walker---------------Toprak------------Verthonghen-----------------Rose
---------------------------------------Rabiot----------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mario-------------------------------------------------------------------------Nolito
---------------------------------------Calhanoglu-------------------------------------------
----------------------------Depay------------------Rashford-----------------
Subs - Zieler, Ake, Young, Konoplyanka, Moutinho, Florenzi, Janssen
CAPTAIN - CECH
CK'S - CALHANOGLU
FK'S - CALHANOGLU
PENALTIES - RASHFORD
A cup game this week against rof so trying a different formation seeing as he has a lot of big names injured. This 41212 formation is solid in defence but also very attacking with 2 strikers up front and an AM playing behind them.
Defence
I got a world class keeper in goal so he will be hard to beat. The defence is well balanced. Toprak and Verthonghen are an excellent partnership and bring experience at the back. Toprak brings that old school no nonsense defending. Stay strong and if the opposition play 1 up front than stay close to him and not let him turn. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box.
Defence Mid
Rabiot
He will be ultra defensive mode, covering for our players when they are out of position and marking the oppo AM and strikers. Don't stray too far forward and if you have possession of the ball pass it to a teammate asap. Only job is to defend.
Wingers
Mario + Nolito
Giving these 2 a start this week. Nolito isn't yiur typical pacy winger, he is a very good dribbler and is very good at keeping hold of the ball. Play quick passes and try and carve open the oppo defence with intricate play. Be ready for the counter attack as and Mario are deadly on them. Mario will be more focused primarily on beating the left back on the outside and getting to the byline to get a decent cross in. Confuse the oppo left back by twisting and turning and you are also good at using your left foot so if you cut in and shoot you can. I want you both to help track back and help the full backs when they are in our half of the pitch.
Attack Mid
Calhanoglu
Shoot if you see a chance. Use your playmaking ability to create chances. Play quick passes with the players around you and try and find space inbetween the oppo players.
Strike
Depay + Rashford
I want you both to use your pace to try and beat the offside trap. Rashford, you have a lot of stamina so when the opposition CB'S have the ball I want you to close them down and pressure them. Try and bring other players into the game. Pass and move is the way to go. With two fast pacy strikers up front, we're bound to create chances on the counter.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Janssen for Rashford. Also bring on Konoplayanka for Nolito and Florenzi for Calhanoglu. Play a high line and try and get a goal.
Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take of Calhanoglu and put on Ake in CB and play 5atb ultra defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives. Janssen for Rashford aswell.
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Rashford off for Janssen
Calhanoglu off for Florenzi
Nolito off for Konoplyanka
posted on 4/10/16
------------------ De Gea ------------------
P.Lahm - Boateng - Bonucci - Ricardo
---------- Busquets - L.Modric ----------
Sanchez -------- Pogba -------- Neymar
------------------ Aguero ------------------
Butland, Umtiti, Lemina, Gomes, Pjaca, Dybala, G.Jesus
In goal De Gea, a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, shouting instructions to his defenders. Out very quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.
Bonucci in beside Boateng today, on this occassion Bonucci will man mark the CF. Bonucci is quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, powerfully built so marking the CF should be no trouble as he has to man up to him, will keep him away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Boateng alongside is fantastic in the air, so will mark any other big players that come into our danger area, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger. Both are comfortable on the ball and can bring it out from defence but when in no danger and no erseing about with it, also both go up for corners and are a huge threat as the two fullbacks and Busquets hang back.
Lahm and Ricardo at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Lahm and Ricardo are perfect for this . They will look to keep them away from shooting areas where is dangerous in any position. This is a vital clash in this game. They will be up against quality wingers so look to force him away from goal and backwards. I want them to attack when in no danger so time these runs perfectly. One sits back a bit and allowing the other to attack, this is keeping a 3 at the back at all times. Their marking abilities are sound, both have good positional sense and very quick, do not make rash desicions and will stay on their feet. Both FBs can attack. When one goes the other stays as they look to make an extra man down the flank for our wingers to cut inside or play neat one twos to free the wingers up as there fullbacks get dragged out of position.
Busquets to stop the AM getting the ball from midfield to the striker, he must be right on top of him looking to close him down at the quickest opportunity, let him dictate play and there striker will get plenty chances, we must not let this happen. So quick and into him, fairly and stop this! Busquets himself will look to dictate from deep as he picks up from the defence and looks to drive us forward with precision passing. Modric v the second most advanced midfielder much the same, but obvs when we have the ball he is allowed to move forward and push him back, Modric should have a bit of time to look around him for the pass, So he will look to find his team mates with ease. Use his upper body strength to get him away from the player. Pass and move always look for the return pass. When they have then close down the CM, he will look to ping the ball about so get to him before that opportunity arises. We have put Pogba in a No.10 role or just slightly withdrawn No.10 against there DM he must be strong, Pogba is an all round fantastic midfielder, however he will look to take the DM on one v one drag him about open up spaces for others to drive into, with the ball at feet look to play quick one twos with those around him so he makes the runs into the box looking for that return ball that will get him in on goal. If the ball is played to him with his back to goal hold it up, draw the foul from the DM, if it doesnt come then look to lay it off, look to play the slide pass into Aguero. All three are good all round midfielders, But Busquets i want to sit in the hole with the two either side when defending.
Neymar and Sanchez are known for their creativity, speed, and technical ability and are fearless, explosive attacking midfielders who can change the game with a turn of pace or a dribble. More importantly both scorers of wonderful and important goals. Both technically excellent in limited areas, fast explosive acceleration during the first ten yards. Which more often than not takes them passed defenders and allows them to get into dangerous areas. Always play with there heads up looking for the runs of others to get the ball into there feet. When they have the ball look to stick close to fullbacks and stop them coming forward. Just track the fullbacks and use pace to get back and in around there faces to stop them becoming a threat. Always be looking for Pogba inside as the three make an awesome trio attack wise in behind Aguero and a scary proposition for the Brum back line
Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. Aguero is surprisingly good in the air and two good feet, can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front four/five will be a threat today we must go for it and keep pace with the league leaders. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Neymar and Sanchez running into support. Pogba will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side
Captain - Lahm
Penalties - Aguero
Free kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Subs:-
Losing -
70 Mins - Dybala > Modric, Pogba drops deep, Dybala up on Agueros shoulder
80 Mins - Pjaca > Ricardo 3 at the back Pjaca and Sanchez into a 4 man mid and 3 up top
Winning -
70 Mins - Lemina for Modric to shore up the midfield
80 Mins - Dybala for Aguero like for like
Drawing -
70 Mins - Dybala for Modric switch with Pogba and Dybala plays a little further forward
80 Mins - Gomes for Pogba
posted on 6/10/16
---------------- Ter Stegen ------------------
Bellerin - Sokratis - Williams - Monreal
------------ Bender --- Cazorla -------------
Walcott --------- Mata ----------- A.Iwobi
----------------- Chicarito ------------------
Pau, Barzagli, Defour, Tufan, Miirallas, Kelechi, Defrel
Captain Ashley Williams wont let the standards slip throughout. He and Sokratis are a hard nut partnership which no striker would relish coming up against, Sokratis will match him for power and strength as he goes heaed to head with him, dont give him any room at all to get himself into scoring opportunities. Be onto him like a fly round shiete, Williams will backj him up as the two form a fromidable wall in front of Ter Stegen who is a fanastic shot stopper and gives confidence to the rest of the team from the back. Punch clear what he cant catch.
Bellerin can drive forward as he knows Monreal will tuck in to keep at least a back 3 in case of break aways. He attacks and has a great understanding with Walcott, He can drive outside there fullback as the two go gung ho at him, Bellerin and Walcott are two of the quickest in the league so at full pace will easily get in beyond the defenders and create havoc amongst there back line. If he gets the ball back look to drive and cross in, play the trriangles with Walcott and Bender to get into space. On the otherside Monreal is more relaxed and will give Bellerin the freedom by staying back, you will see him at half way but from there he looks for the pass instead of driving on. When we defend we hava a solid bank of four with the midfield ahead of them. Solid as a rock man.
Bender and Cazorla ahead has a power of work in them, will harrass there midfield all day long if they have to. Both energetic players and wont give them a breather. Bender himself will pick up the AM whilst Cazorla will act as the box to box, he supports the defence when they drive at us but when we attack he will allow Mata to push on as he takes up the AM role just ahead of Bender, this allows Mata to roam and become a nuisance.
Outwide we have pace and skill Walcott has freedom to drive today obvs with Bellerin as spoken about, The two can go and have fun v there LB, really look to pose hunners of problems purely with pace. Pace these days is a massive attribute and if you got it use it. When Bellerin drives passed Walcott can push in and he and Chicarito will look for quick one twos to get one of them in on goal, this is if Bellerin hasnt got it to cross in. Iwobi is young and confident but also has a cool head and the skill to beat his man, he and Monreal will use their heads to pass it around with Cazorla until the right moment to play the presicion pass that will get Walcott/Iwobi/Mata into space or indeed the cross in for \Chicarito. As we defend this is also a flat 4 so we have two banks of 4 making it as difficult as possible for them.
Mata will have a free role, he is there to pass it around, make late dashes into the box and generally be a nuisance, pull players away from there area to allow others to drive into space, when Cazorla is looking up Mata will try and get into space for Cazorla to find him, then he himself will be looking for the front three so he can play them in. Defence wise, if they play a three he annoys the more defensive one and tries to stop holding onto the ball too long.
Chicarito up top, is great with his back to goal, can turn his man easily and go for goal, has the power and strength to get away from his man and drive in. Also can hold the ball up well to allow others to come in and support as he lays it off for them to have a go.
Very useful in the air for when the ball is crossed in.
Quick football especially down our right hand side, neat triangles, one twos to get beyond them, they may be top but we dont care.
Captain - Williams
Penalties - Chicarito
FreeKicks - Mata
Corners - Mata
Subs:-
Losing -
Kelechi for Mata, Defour for Cazorla on 75 Mins 442 fresh legs an all that
Winning -
Defour for Mata on 75 Mins and he sits in, Mirallas for Iwobi same time
Drawing -
Kelechi for Mata and switch it with Chicarito, Mirallas for Iwobi on 70 mins
posted on 7/10/16
Arsenal vs Stoke
Injuries
Clichy, Rugani, Valero, ADM
4-4-2 Diamond
…………………………………..Hart……………………………
Hysaj………………Chiellini……Romagnoli………..De Sciglio
…………………………………..Verratti………………………………..
………………………Matic…………………Marchisio……………………
……………………………………Oscar………………………………………….
………………………..Ronaldo…………Tevez…………………………..
Subs: Patricio, Luiz, Baselli, Berardi,Kane,Mandzukic, Cahill
Change of system await at Stoke – paying homage to Carlito’s all-conquering Milan side, nice slick fast paced possession football – The diamond allows us to play the passes short and crisp keeping the ball on the floor, no need to rush or go long.
The one weakness of this system is a perceived lack of width but with De Sciglio and Hysaj given the freedom to attack at will plus Oscar given a free role this isn’t as big an issue as people think.
The defence –
Hysaj and De Sciglio have great pace and fantastic engines so they’ll be motoring up and down the flanks given us balance on both flanks – their advances will be in line with the midfield in the early transition stages as we want them involved in the build up play, but as we venture into the final 3rd they will use their pace to kick on behind Stokes FB’s
Chiellini and Roma – will use their physical attributes to keep Stokes Striker(s) quiet by any means necessary, neither will venture forward today – except for set-pieces
The Midfield –
I know some will say Matic and Verratti need swapping but they don’t – Verratti is there because I want him as the heart-beat, Pirlo-esque so he has to get on the ball early and dictate the tempo of the game..Matic is in the engine room because he can make those marauding runs forward BUT with his tough-tackling in the middle of the pitch we can win the ball back higher up the field, which in turn enables us to get in more attacks before Stoke get bodies behind the ball…Marchisio pure and simple is our engine in there.
Oscar – Plays the role that Kaka did for Milan – not a pure #10 but a solid B2B AM – will drop deep to collect the ball but also has a decent strike rate so will look to get in the box and make things happen.
Ronaldo & Tevez – worked well at United back in the day, no reason why it can’t now, Ronaldo can do anything in a game of football and that’s what makes him so hard to stop because he really does have it all. Tevez is so hard working he truly is our first line of defence – will harry Stokes defence all day long forcing errors or long punts forward – always in amongst the goals and very good at running the channels
Subs 60 mins
Kane > Tevez
Berardi > Oscar
we then finish the game in a 4-3-3
Berardi……………..Kane…………Ronaldo
posted on 7/10/16
Injuries: Stark, Sule, Kostic, Gibson
Captain: Johannes Geis
Penalties: Werner (Vietto)
Free Kicks: Johannes Geis
-------------------------------Horn
Weiser-----Klostermann-------Tah-------Henrichs
---------------------Geis-----------Dahoud
-----Volland--------------Óliver--------------Brandt
---------------------------Werner
Subs: Karius, Wimmer, Biglia, Goretzka, Schöpf, Vietto, Pohjanpalo
Our defensive unit consists of Lukas Klostermann and Niklas Süle paired up at centre-back, Mitchell Weiser at right-back and Benjamin Henrichs at left-back, with Johannes Geis and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Geis and Dahoud we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Dahoud can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Geis can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Dahoud’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Dahoud running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Johannes Geis.
A holding midfielder through and through, Geis is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Geis such a talent.
Geis is also our deadball specialist so do watch out for his pin-point accuracy from free kicks.
The attacking unit consists of Kevin Volland, Óliver Torres and Julian Brandt as our band of three attacking midfielders with Timo Werner as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Geis or Dahoud, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Weiser and Henrichs can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Geis and Dahoud can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Kevin Volland and Julian Brandt who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Óliver Torres our attacking central midfielder’s diminutive physique and low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Óliver is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer who will look to play Volland, Brandt or Werner in via fast passing combinations.
Very much like his comrades (Volland, Brandt & Óliver), Timo Werner is blessed with incredible pace on and off the ball, and quick dribbling to get past defenders, and a real killer instinct in front of the goal. Werner will also be a good team player with the vision to set up his teammates.
Sub: 75 Mins: Goretzka on for Dahoud, Schöpf on for Óliver, and Vietto on for Werner
posted on 7/10/16
------------------Forster-------------------
Holding--van Dijk-Kompany-L.Shaw
Mahrez---N.Kante--Dembele---Draxler
--------------------Fekir--------------------
-----------------Lacazette-----------------
Pickford, Tierney, Valencia, Haddadi, Parejo, Dembele Berahino
Forster behind the back four which is a solid defence, with the keeper shouting when he comes out for the ball, he will punch clear what he cant catch and look to release the ball early
Kompany takes the free role at the back, he sits spare whilst van Dijk picks up the CF. While van Dijk is picking up the CF, Kompany takes a step off him as he will be mindful of the CF if he gets away from van Dijk or indeed any other attacker that comes through. Both need to be strong in the defence, they cannot be bullied by the CF or any other attackers, although they are both powerful boys. van Dijk must make desicions quickly to where he has to be and not make rash desicions, that is where Kompany helps him. They attack all high balls, they must stick tight as we are playing two attacking fullbacks, Both top class with the ball, so if they are feeling comfortable then move out with the ball.
Holding and Shaw are in for their defensive attributes as we will be up agianst it, both are allowed to attack but will be sporadic.
I really want a solid back four today as there attack is good, so defend the lines dont let anyone passed without at least challenging them. Make it as difficult as possible to get passed them. Hold firma nd stay tall, both strong and young so keeping them back should be ok. They can go forward but look to pass it to our midfield first and foremost and dont get too carried away.
We are going to look and play a compact midfield to reduce the time they have on the ball. Dembele and Kante will be sitting in with either making the occassional run forward, one of them must sit in at all times. I want them to break their attack up very quickly and get the ball forward or out to our fullbacks. Kante takes up the main role of marking there attacking midfielder. He is a very in your face type character and will hunt you down very quickly as is Dembele so there midfielders wont have much time on the ball. Both very powerful players in the centre of my midfield.
Mahrez and Draxler will play with freedom to attack and support Fekir and Lacazette,they have a lot of skill so can pick these players out easily when we break forward and as we break forward they can cut inside and allow our fullbacks to get beyond them to put in the cross, it may seem as if we are being withdrawn today but with cover from the fullbacks the wingers have a little more freedom to break forward. Mahrez and Draxler will push wide to stop there fullbacks if needed. Close control from our midfield pass quickly and look to get around there players. Our fullbacks are important today as midfielders when we attack, we need lots of energy and drive from them.
Fekir will be the link that will get the ball from midfield to attack, his passing is sublime. Will have his head up at all times and pick team mates out easily breaking down there defensive lines with ease, quick one touch passing to the front three and they will be in on goal very quickly. If he has to drop deep to get possession of the ball then so be it, he has the freedom to do so. Links very well with Lacazette
Lacazette is a fantastic outlet up front as he can not only take players on with his pace but is strong enough to hold off players to allow others to come in and support, especially Fekir who will be up in support a lot, always looking to go for goal and two good feet, with support from our fullbacks, Draxler and Mahrez also this is a very quick and powerul front line always driving forward and hopefully that defenders will fear. We must drive at them non stop, we have subs which we will use.
Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Lacazette
Free Kicks - Mahrez
Corners - Wingers
Substitutes
If we are losing Dembele the striker will come on for Fekir on 70 Mins also Haddadi for Draxler 2 up front
If we are winning Parejo will come on for Fekir and Dembele For Lacazette on 75 Minutes, Valencia for Holding on 80
Drawing then Haddadi for Draxler on 70 mins
posted on 7/10/16
--------------------Buffon
Juanfran---Pepe----Godin---Wendell
----------------Krychowiak
--------Nainggolan-------Pjanic
Mane-------------------------------Firmino
-------------------Suarez
Subs
Lloris, Manolas, Clyne, Fabregas, Salah, Dembele, Sturridge
Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will claim it without trouble, he and the defence have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance being conceded When he has the ball he will look to offload quickly in the direction of Suarez or Firmino to get those quick counter attacks started.
Godin is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM dropping in to make it a back 3 always ready to stop counter attacks, Both CB"s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are so they are always aware. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid sliding tackles unless necessary instead looking to use our experience to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space with the occasional long ball to the front 3 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.
For the full backs today the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly wfen defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly and launching an attack of our own. Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who they go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, looking to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. when we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 3 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player around them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery to make runs between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Suarez, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece due to the ability of our set piece takers. When the opposite wide man has the ball, the wideman without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.
When Suarez is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead of the defender and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul, his unpredictable style when on the ball will look to cause a bit of doubt in the minds of the defenders as he has a knack of bouncing it off peoples shins and it landing in a perfect position for himself to create a chance for himself or others. He also has a knack of being the first to react to get onto rebounds or parries and taking those one touch chances..
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.
Set Pieces
Corners - Pjanic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out inbetween the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Suarez work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a freer run at the ball, Firmino and Mane flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Krychowiak looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him creating less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Radja takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and occasionally providing the short option to try and draw 2 defenders out of the box.
Free Kicks - Suarez takes Direct FK's
For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners
Penalties - Suarez is the designated taker.
Subs
If Winning
70 mins - Dembele for Firmino - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
81 + 85 Mins - Salah for Mane and Fabregas for Pjanic - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Fabregas for Radja - Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
70 Mins - Sturridge, Manolas and Fabregas for Wendell, Krychowiak and Juanfran - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and we go all out attacking for a way to get back into the game.
If a red card occurs, we go to a 4-4-1 formation with Krychowiak being the sacrificial lamb to cover the position we lost the player in, unless it is himself or one of the other centre mids.
posted on 7/10/16
Balanced 4-3-3
We are confident our trio of cms can win the midfield battle. Kroos dictates our tempo and play, mixing it up for us with his long passing ability. Vidal offers all action going forward and in defence, with Javi the enforcer at dm.
We play with a high tempo without the ball. We will vary our tempo in possession.
The fb on the side of play is tasked with providing attacking width. The wingers will look to come narrow and get close to Ibrahimovic, always looking to support, link up and play off him. James offers goals and creativity, Ibra the power and hold up play with Hazard always looking to get in behind the defence and using his pace to beat his man.
Target and overload their cbs, Ibra’s power will prove difficult for their cbs to deal with, he can dominate here. Get balls to him in the box.
Defensively we have a strong side, with pace at the back, and midfielders that can get back and form a solid defensive unit, with great intelligence, work rate and leadership throughout the side.
------------- Handanovic
Danilo – Ramos – Otamendi - Kurzawa
------------- J.Martinez
-------- A.Vidal ---- T.Kroos
-- James.R ------------------- Hazard --
------------ Ibrahimovic
Subs. Bentley, Ghoulam, Strootman, Brozovic, Sane, Turan, Costa
Key to our attack is quick attacking play. Varying our play and how we get the ball to our wingers/Ibra quickly.
Defending in numbers
We look to control the opposition by pressing the space with a narrow rigid defensive unit, only allowing them to play in areas we want them to. When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone else bar Ibra gets behind the ball into position. Stop them breaking.
In a deep, narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Draw them in to positions where they can’t hurt us, and then try and win the ball back.
We always keep one fb back. We have a quick defence and energy and pace in midfield to stop quick breaks. Javi sits in front, when we’re attacking we always have 3 defenders with the dm in front, offering plenty of defensive cover.
As Pompey advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1. Our wingers will track any forward runs made by their fbs, and Javi is the midfielder in between the lines, pressing the space in front of our cbs in a position to cover the midfield.
In this tight rigid formation, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Javi will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, reading any dangers to get across.
Vidal and Kroos, hold central positions in front of Javi, offering a strong defensive trio.
The winger opposite to the play coming narrow and deep next to him providing a further wall in between those pressing and the back four. Narrowing the play to the side Pompey are attacking, pushing them backwards and wide away from danger. When they switch play, we switch over.
Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, they will drop off more and narrow the play so they can bide their time, waiting for the right time to make the tackle, not diving in. If he does manage to get past you coming inside Javi and a cb will be there to tidy up or down the line then there’s a chance to get back and stop the cross.
Attack.
Get the ball to Kroos, he sets the tempo of our play. He has freedom to play long balls, over the top for our attackers, direct to Ibra or diagonals to our wingers. Stretch their team. If their defence drops deeper it gives us the ability to push up and get on top of the game, if they keep a high line we can continue to try get in behind and find our attackers in space.
In possession, the defence push up playing a reasonably high line as all are comfortable in possession and have great pace with Javi offering further cover in front. The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, starting our attacks from the back.
The midfield should never be flat. The cm trio will look to pass the ball in triangles, always looking to go on further and provide another passing option.
Kroos and Vidal both have freedom to get forward and look for space between their defence and midfiekld. One will look to get in the box when we’re getting balls in, the other hangs slightly further back, a few yards from the edge of the penalty box back, looking to get on any loose balls.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Vidal, Kroos and the wingers will always be looking for the killer ball. If it is not on, we are happy to keep possession, attacking down the wings.
Ibrahimovic has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals. Get crosses in to him.
Subs. If drawing or winning after 70 mins bring on Costa for Ibrahimovic. Let him loose.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Turan for James. Fresh energy and legs.
If winning after 85 mins bring on Sane for Hazard. Fresh pace and power.
If drawing after 78 mins bring on Turan for Javi.M. 4-2-3-1. James AM, Sane RW.
If drawing after 85 mins bring on Sane for Hazard.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Turan for Javi.M. 4-2-3-1. James AM, Sane RW.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Costa for James.R. 4-2-2-2. Two up top go for it.
posted on 8/10/16
Red cards for Wolves
Mata off 441
Ter stegen - Pau on
Fb - Tufan on
CB - Barzagli on
CM - Defour on
Winger - Mirallas on
CF - Kelechi on
posted on 8/10/16
Injuries - Rekik, Ake, Mario, Nolito
-----------------------------------------Cech--------------------------------
Walker-----Toprak----Shawcross----Verthonghen----Rose
------------------------------------Carvalho----------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pedro----------------------------Hamsik--------------------------Mertens
---------------------------------------Vardy-----------------------------------------
Subs - Zieler, Davies, Young, Sissoko, Moutinho, Florenzi, Janssen
CAPTAIN - CECH
CK'S - MERTENS
FK'S - MERTENS
PENALTIES - VARDY
OH SHEET! It's the big one. Up against Fan and the defending champions of the world Chelsea. Fan expects me to just bend over and let him do me over but I say NO! I will not give up! I will never back down! I will PARK THE AEROPLANE IN FRONT OF GOAL!
Defence
I got a world class keeper in goal so he will be hard to beat. This defence consists of the Turkish Delight, Toprak. The no nonsense yob Shawcross and the Belgian Bazooka Verthonghen. With these 3 playing CB, they are the trye definition of "Thou shall not pass!" Stay deep and compact. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box.
Defence Mid
Carvalho
He will be ultra defensive mode, covering for our players when they are out of position and marking the oppo AM and strikers. If one of the oppo players is lininh up a shot from long range i want you to close him down and block the shot. Don't stray too far forward and if you have possession of the ball pass it to a teammate asap. Only job is to defend.
Wingers
Pedro + Mertens
Giving these 2 a start this week. Pedro isn't your typical pacy winger, he is a very good dribbler and is very good at keeping hold of the ball. Play quick passes and try and carve open the oppo defence with intricate play. Be ready for the counter attack as Pedro and Mertens are deadly on them. Pedro will be more focused primarily on beating the left back on the outside and getting to the byline to get a decent cross in. Confuse the oppo left back by twisting and turning and you are also good at using your left foot so if you cut in and shoot you can. I want you both to help track back and help the full backs when they are in our half of the pitch.
Attack Mid
Hamsik
Shoot if you see a chance. Use your playmaking ability to create chances. Play quick passes with the players around you and try and find space inbetween the oppo players.
Strike
Vardy
I want you to use your pace to try and beat the offside trap. Vardy, you have a lot of stamina so when the opposition CB'S have the ball I want you to close them down and pressure them. Try and bring other players into the game. Pass and move is the way to go.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Change firmation to 41212. Put on Janssen for Shawcross . Also bring on Young for Pedro and Florenzi for Carvalho . Play a high line and try and get a goal.
Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take of Hamsik and put on Davies in CB and play 6atb ultra defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives. Janssen for Vardy aswell.
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Vardy off for Janssen
Hamsik off for Florenzi
Pedro off for Young
posted on 8/10/16
----------------------------Trapp--------------------------
----Howedes----Laporte----Dragovic-----Blind----
--------------------------Wanyama----------------------
------------------Rabiot-------------Witsel--------------
-----Gotze------------------------------Konoplayanka--
-----------------------------Icardi---------------------------
Subs: Batalla, Matip, Hector, Kranevitter, Barkley, Taison, Rodriguez.
Tough game at home to Villa. They have some quality attacking players but are very suspect in wide areas and at the back so we will look to use that to our advantage as much as possible. We have a solid back line that has plenty of defensive quality and rigidity about it. We have good tackles, physicality and ball players in the midfield and we have the quality out wide and up front to cause them problems. Our defence will stay sat, our full backs won't contribute much going forward as they need to be positioned well as we know they will want their wide men to really push on, so they have to keep tight. Dragovic and Laporte have to keep tight and strong on Higuaín. He is a danger in the box and we know we need to keep him tied down and under wraps for as much of this game as possible as well as looking to frustrate him when and where we can. We need to sit deep when we can to really restrict the space in behind the defence of them to play and we have to keep it tight and compact when deep so that they struggle to find gaps to pick passes and create chances. Wanyama sits in the defensive midfield role. His purpose of this job is to man mark KDB. He has to be on his toes at all time, not giving him the space to breathe when he is on the ball. Wanyama is a very fit and professional player at his job and he needs to shut down KDB. His tackles have to be strong and he needs to be disciplined throughout this game. Blind can offer support to Konoplayanka down the line, but he can't go racing past him as we cannot afford to get exposed down the flanks this game. Rabiot and Witsel are crucial in this game if we are to win it. They have to be the midfielders with energy and creativity and they have to break from deep to push us up the pitch and play with the ball. But there has to be energy in there and we must be playing up with the ball. Their defensive duties are to support Wanyama sitting in on KDB and to track any midfield runners coming forward. Gotze and Konoplayanka are our wide men. Defensively need to be sound at tracking back and supporting the full backs as we can't leave them isolated out wide in 1v1 situations but they have to be ruthless going forward as we know their full backs like to push up the pitch and we can expose them there. Icardi will be up front. We will look to play direct for his hold up play and he must be strong against the centre backs for them. He needs to be linking the play with the wide men and midfielders breaking at pace.
The man to man marking has to be done through the middle. KDB and Higuaín up top must be marked tightly through the middle and it's important that the midfield around Wanyama hold a position to block passes as much as possible through to them 2 through the middle as well as pressing their other midfielders when they get to the final third. Our full backs stay narrow to restrict the space until the ball gets played wide, then they go and meet the man and send him wide. Gotze and Konoplayanka come inside and sit on their 2 deeper midfielders to stop them playing passes and giving them time, but must push out to the full backs when they go forward and must hit on the break.
Going forward we have to use the energy in our midfield and we have to exploit the wide areas as much as we can. We know their full backs can be very suspect as they like to push forward and their positioning is also their to be questioned as well. Konoplayanka is a natural wide man, he really needs to hug the touchline and drag their right back out of position as much as possible and really get at him out wide. Using his pace and crossing ability, we really must utilise him as much as we can. Gotze has a separate role, he needs to float and roam around as a raumdeuter. He needs to make life difficult for the left back to pick him up and must also look to drag him out of position as much as possible and looking to find pockets of space in behind Icardi and work off from there. With both Rabiot and Witsel pushing forward with energy onto their sitting midfielders, Gotze can have the time and space to come inside and pick pockets without being tracked too well unless their left back wants to come out of position to stop him. Icardi must be working with these players. He has a trusted winger in Konoplayanka wide and must use his crosses to great effect and get on the end of them. With Gotze coming inside, he needs to be close to him so hat he can link with Gotze and really make life tough for their midfielders to track and deal with him. He has Rabiot and Witsel breaking from midfield and he must be looking to make movements in behind and into spaces so that they can both supply the passes in there for him and to really pull and pick their defence apart. Rabiot and Witsel need to push forward to make their midfielders pick up and track but they need to get hold of the ball, control it pushing forward and pick their defence apart with their passes and energy.
Subs
If winning:
Hector for Konoplayanka - Blind goes into CB, Hector LB and Gotze AM, formation set at 5-4-1 (AM), aiming to keep it tight and solid and to hold on. (75 mins)
Barkley for Gotze - Fresh legs in AM and to slow the tempo down a little bit. (80 mins)
Kranevitter for Rabiot - Another DM to help in closing down, pressing the ball and marking up. (80 mins)
If drawing:
Taison for Witsel - 4-2-3-1 with Gotze AM. (75 mins)
Kranevitter for Rabiot - Fresh legs in DM, watching for the break away. (75 mins)
If losing:
Rodrguez for Wanyama - Up top with Icardi, 4-2-2-2 formation. (70 mins)
Taison for Konoplayanka - Another AM to help play through the middle. (75 mins)
posted on 8/10/16
------------------Leno
Toure------Ginter------Evans----Baines
Candreva-----Illaramendi-----Anderson
---------Ramsey-----------Ozil
-------------------Cavani
Caceres
Bernat
Dier
Mor
Moura
Sanabria
Ward-Prowse
We have yet again set up in a different style, this time utilising our physicality down the middle and our flair on the flanks. Our aim is to play a game where we press the opponent high up the pitch, forcing them into mistakes and trying to seize on them for our own advantage. The players we have selected reflect a desire for a physical presence on the game, and have also been picked for their high energy levels.
I am giving Baines and Toure the license to push forward when we are on the ball, supporting Candreva and Anderson by pushing down the line and doubling up on the opponent’s full backs. We feel that this can help to give us the initiative in the final third as we can get men over on the opponent. Baines has a very strong delivery into the box, and will be looking to put it in low for the runs of Cavani, Ozil and Ramsey, flashing balls across the face of goal, or pulling it back to the edge of the box.
When off the ball I expect both to push and pull at the opponents wider players, harassing them and pressing them at the top end of the pitch so that they don’t have the time to move up and down the flanks. Both of my fullbacks are good defensive players that are willing to throw themselves in. If the opponent’s wide men do get the ball in our first third then they are to be pushed to the corner flag and onto their weaker foot.
Our centre back partnership have to learn to double up on the opponents. Evans will act as an aerial buffer, being the more physical of the two and getting himself stuck in. Ginter will act as the covering player, dealing with the ball on the ground and robbing the ball off anyone that gets past Evans. When on the ball our defenders should have plenty of options, but we encourage them to play short simple balls to the wings or Illaramendi.
Illaramendi plays the role of the midfield general and buffer to the opposition. He shields our defence from attack by being willing to throw himself into tackles and using his strength to limit the threat that attacking midfielders in the opponent’s game plan can do to us. It may be a huge ask getting him to do such a lot of work, but for this purpose he will not be asked to contribute much going forward, instead sitting right in front of the defence. When he does get the ball he should look to spread it out wide.
Candreva and Anderson are picked today for their work ethic of running up and down the line. When not on the ball it is their job to harass and press the opponents full backs, causing them to either hit it long or play it across their own back four. When they do get on the ball then they must run at the defence, either getting themselves into the penalty area or laying it off for a supporting full back on the overlap.
In Ramsey we have added a bit of strength into our attacking midfield positions. It is his job to run the length of the pitch, getting back to support the defence when the oppoisition have the ball in the first third, harrying and pressing when they have it in the second and third, and making runs past Cavani for Ozil to ping the ball over to and for the wingers and full backs to put in low balls for. It is important that he uses his strength and energy to win the ball high up the pitch.
Ozil will be given a slightly freer role than Ramsey. I still expect him to press high up the pitch in conjunction with his AM partner, but I don’t expect him to track back, leaving him up front with Cavani to peg the opposition defence back. When the wingers are on the ball he will look to find space on the edge of the box, making the option for the ball to be pulled back to, or will run through to try and get a foot on the ball at the near post.
Cavani has to use the strength and energy that he has in abundance to maintain the pressing game high up the pitch, with it being his job to target the opposition centre backs, stopping them from playing it out from the back by leading the line in pushing up and forcing them into holding the ball too long or hitting it long.
When we get on the ball he is to get himself into the penalty area, where he will make a nuisance of himself. He is to try and find some space, but if he cannot then get ball side of his man and get shots away on goal, knowing that the ball will be coming into feet gives him an advantage here.
Substitutes
65 mins – Ramsey off, Mor on – Fresh legs in the attacking midfield slot, with Mor taking up Ramsey’s responsibilities and adding some quick feet into the equation.
70 mins – Anderson and Baines off, Bernat and Moura on – Bernat comes in as a natural replacement for Baines at LB, and Moura slots in on the left hand side of midfield.
posted on 8/10/16
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
5. Zabaleta — 12. Smalling — 4. Benatia — 6. Sandro
—————— 16. De Rossi —— 5. Wijnaldum
10. Robben ————— 17. De Bruyne ————— 11. Reus
————————————— 9. Higuain
SUBS: 31. Begovic, 12. Smalling, 8. Coutinho, 38. Barry, 23. Eriksen, 39. Son, 7. Mkhitaryan
Captain: Marco Reus
Corners: Kevin de Bruyne
Crossing free-kicks: Kevin de Bruyne
Shooting free-kicks: Marco Reus
Penalties: Marco Reus
We stick to a 4-2-3-1 counter attack and again a near full strength side with Robben coming into the side bringing his tactical intelligence with him, helping with dominating the midfield alongside KDB and Reus. Up against a strong opposition team today in what is a crucial game for Aston Villa’s chances at getting a trophy we need a win and so we are very motivated, we expect the opposition to be looking to dominate, we usually play this way too, however with our greater experience and the pace on the break of our front 4 we're going to play more on the counter attack leaving very little space between the lines of midfield and defence when defending.
The advantage of the 4-2-3-1 formation in terms of counter attacking is it is very easy to change quickly from defence to attack and create superior number situations in the opposition half of the pitch with the 4 rows of players on the pitch, what is a 4-5-1 in defensive situations can very quickly become a 4-3-3 in attack.
The block of four of Benatia Smalling De Rossi and Wijnaldum will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. De Rossi and Wijnaldum will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line while Smalling will mark their striker tightly with Benatia sweeping behind if he does get through. KDB will come back in the defending phase to help win the ball back with the two midfielders.
Oblak will play in goal, his talents are obvious to anyone, fantastic shot stopper and very good coming off his line so he can sweep up any balls in behind and someone capable of wonder saves.
The first line of our formation is the defence, the full backs Zabaleta and Sandro are extremely fit and very strong in defence and tactically aware of their roles in this system which is crucial, they are to make the job of the wide attackers of the opposition as difficult as possible not allowing them to make runs in between themselves and the centre halves, keeping them as wide as possible and as far from goal as possible, good communication from the centre halves is crucial.
The two midfielders De Rossi and Wijnaldum are our second line of defence and attack, by playing two deeper lying players they can rotate, one of them will always be available for the ball when we're in possession and both are able to launch attacks quickly due to their passing ability, defensively they are to watch runs from the opposition midfield who will be dangerous, both are very tactically educated and comfortable playing this way. Wijnaldum will be tasked with pushing the team forwards in the attacking phase and arriving late in the box.
Our attacking midfield trio are absolutely crucial to the way we want to attack, KDB is somewhat free of defensive responsibility unless under pressure as both Robben and Reus are very hard working and able to get up and down the pitch for 90 minutes, in defence it will become a 4-4-1-1 while the offensive ability and styles of Reus and Robben means the formation automatically becomes a 4-3-3 when in possession. Their pace and intelligence in making runs will cause havoc for the the opposition defence and their records speak for themselves when creating and taking chances.
Higuain will play as the centre forward, his pace and energy will be crucial in pressurising the defensive midfielder of the opposition and he never stops running. When we obtain possession his first job is to get on the shoulder of the centre halves and make runs in behind and stretch the defence, this is crucial in creating gaps between the midfield and defence of the opposition for Reus, KDB and Robben to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on Barry for KDB. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.
If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Coutinho for De Rossi. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Wijnaldum will drop back to DM to control the game while Coutinho and KDB will dominate from behind Higuain as well as adding an extra goal threat in a 4-1-4-1. Robben on right and Reus goes to the left.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Son for KDB. Attacking 4-4-2 with Coutinho and Wijnaldum in the middle and Robben on the right Reus on the left. Higuain and Son up front.
posted on 8/10/16
———————————Bravo
———Azpilicueta——Alderweireld——Koulibaly
G.Castro————Danilo———Rakitic————Marcelo
————Aubameyang——————Griezmann
———————————Lukaku
Subs: Courtois, Christensen, Casemiro, Koke, Carrasco, Charly Musonda, Cornet
Captain: Cesar Azpilicueta
Free Kicks: Antoine Griezmann/Ivan Rakitic
Penalties: Pierre Emerik Aubameyang
Corners: Ivan Rakitic
We continue with the 5 and 5 system we’ve adopted however this week we make a slight change in formation that allows us to go with two or three up front when we attack so that we can take advantage of an unfair fight all across the key central areas of the field. Once again we look to use our excellent energy to press really high up and keep United under a constant flow of pressure, using a compact system, lines close together when defending to suffocate United before we start to spread on the ball to open the game up.
Defend from the front, right from the off and as soon as United gain possession, using the 3 forwards and the WBs as the high block of 5 to press United, Lukaku into the face of the DMs/CBs with Aubameyang and Griezmann closing in on the area of play and looking to block the route out wide, with Castro and Marcelo pushed right up onto the United wide men, tight to them and making sure they can’t be used as United’s out ball, force them to go into the middle and as soon as they make that forward pass everyone closes in on the man on the ball and cut off the support from his team mates, Rakitic and Danilo pushed right onto the United attacking midfielders and Griezmann and Auba hounding the man on the ball, Castro and Marcelo tucked further infield to add to the pressure, all the while blocking the wide route, with the 3 CBs pushed up and surrounding the CF so he can’t find an inch of space. Suffocating our opponents in such a manner will allow us to win possession quickly when its been lost and stay on the front foot throughout, always using the two closest men to the ball to press the ball with their team mates focused on squeezing the space and closing the passing routes.
If United get into wide areas they’ll find the route to goal blocked by a 3-2-5 press down the flanks, WBs and AMs doubling up against their wide players and looking to win the battles from there, with Lukaku as the out ball and the opposite AM and our CMs narrowing to the play to block Wellington’s route in field, the three CBs coming across, again allowing us to keep a compact defensive press, they give us that extra protection if United work the ball out. In the high press we will use Azpi and Koulibaly as forward thinking aggressive defenders, always looking to get to the ball in front of the attackers, Azpi with his determination and energy and Koulibaly in their to give Cavani a real physical dual, with Alderweireld as the cover, Azpi also provides us with someone who can go and close the ball down quickly in wide attacks if Castro is caught out. If United force us deeper we transition to a 4-4-2, Azpi and Marcelo as FBs keeping a narrow defence and midfield, focusing on blocking the space rather than putting all out pressure on the man on the ball, patiently waiting for a mistake and looking to quickly release Auba and Lukaku who pose a serious threat on the counter.
Attack starts right from the keeper with he and ‘defensive’ block of 5 looking to feed the high block of 5 into space. When we get the ball Azpi and Koulibaly pull wide and Castro and Marcelo push right up into the attacking 5, looking to force the wingers to follow them back, allowing the spread out CBs to drag Uniteds attempted press away from the middle to create gaps in the midfield third, Azpi and Koulibaly wide stretching them out and Alderweireld as the initial playmaker with his pressing range. When we draw Uniteds forwards out to press it should free Danilo and Rakitic into space, Danilo will be restricted in his play, just looking to move it quickly but his discipline as well as 3 CBs to cover should allow a more free role for Rakitic who will look to find the central gaps, get on the ball and connect defence to attack, being the deep lying playmaker with his energy to cover large spaces at pace and taking advantage of a lack of willingness to run backwards from Ozil and the like. This then leaves the high 5, WBs pushing right up the field looking to be the players who make the field really wide, keep Uniteds wide players focused on defending the flanks so that Rakitic and the 3 central forward players can out number United in the midfield and really hurt their defence. When we attack through the middle we will have Griezmann in a free role where he’s at his best, able to drop deeper to launch attacks and able to run at defenders and DMs and put them on the back foot. Auba and Lukaku then look to play as CFs, occupying the two CBs and running off each other, so that when one drops into the open midfield spaces the other looks to spin in behind. In central attacks we can also use direct balls from Alderweireld to Lukaku and get Griezmann and Auba running off them. When we need to stretch things more we look to attack wide areas, getting the ball out to the WB and then having the AM on the side go out and double up with him, with both WBs excellent at playing quick one touch football to get into the box or to the byeline to cross, we can open them up down the flank and then use the two CFs again to our advantage, one coming towards the front post to drag a CB with him leaving more space for the other CF to attack in the middle of the box. Both Marcelo and Castro are excellent infield which allows them to make inside runs when Griezmann and Auba run wide, another option to really drag United about. The important thing is to always move them about, Griezmann, Auba, Rakitic, Lukaku is not a fair fight for United central defensive players and we need to take advantage of that today.
Subs:
If Winning: Casemiro and Koke for Rakitic and Lukaku 70’, Koke RAM with Auba up front, intelligent players on and off the ball to continue our control over the game. Christensen for Castro, Azpi to RWB 80’.
If Drawing: Carrasco for Castro 70’, fresh legs and someone to play really high up the field and stretch the game right out, run at Baines/Bernat and test them defensively. Koke for Danilo 75’, looks to move the ball forward faster, knowing he and Rakitic have 3 defenders behind for cover. Cornet for Lukaku 80’, speed and finishers instincts up against a tiring back line.
If Losing: Azpilicueta off, Carrasco on 65’, 4-4-2 with Castro and Carrasco and Marcelo and Griezmann looking to double up down the flanks. Koke for Lukaku 70’, Koke LAM, Griezmann up top where we can get the best from him. Cornet for Danilo 80’, Koke into CM, Cornet up front, we play a 4-2-4 and really throw the kitchen sink at them.
posted on 8/10/16
STOKE CITY v Arsenal
Line Up:
Rulli
Sagna Marquinhos Koscielny Luis
Gustavo
Sterling Kovacic Herrera Ribery
Benzema
Substitutes: Bettinelli; Jedvaj; Coentrao; Bernardo Silva; Schurrle; Paredes; Jese Rodriguez
Captain: Koscielny
Penalties: Benzema
Corners: Ribery
Free Kicks: Ribery
Game Plan:
We are setting up in a 4-1-4-1 formation that will give us the most flexibility in both attack and defence. This formation gives us the ability to pack the middle of the park with bodies in defence and then break forward on the counter with speed and precision.
We will be content to sit deep in our own half, preserving energy and not wasting it by closing down their back line – by sitting deep we will invite their defence to move further up the pitch as they look to keep the distance between their defence and midfield manageable, which will be to our advantage.
When Arsenal gets the ball in our half, we want to set up with two banks of 4, with the defence just in front of the edge of the area and the midfield midway along our half of the pitch. With Gustavo playing a sweeping role between the two banks and Benzema sitting on the halfway line to keep their centre backs pinned back, we are confident that we will be able to congest the middle and negate the pace and flair of the Arsenal players.
With Di Maria out of action, Arsenal’s playmaking ability will take a big hit but they still have some very good players behind the forwards and, of course, Ronaldo up front who will get goals if he is given the time and space. With that in mind, we want to stick Koscielny on Ronaldo all game to stop him from drifting in to areas where he can hurt us. Koscielny is physically capable of keeping tabs on Ronaldo and he is also a very smart, experienced centre back who can read the game well. This frees up Marquinhos to cover against any other attacking threats. Given Tino’s tendencies, we expect Arsenal to line up with two forwards, which means one apiece for our centre backs and Gustavo to cover should any other Gooners wish to join the attack.
We want our two full backs to tuck in close to the centre backs in this formation to minimise the ability of Arsenal’s forward line to move around and stretch the play. With our wide midfielders tracking the runs of the full backs and doubling up with our own full backs to prevent being outnumbered, we are confident that we will be able to track their runs down the flank and nullify their crossing ability, and any attempts to cut inside will simply run in to too much traffic.
In the middle of the pitch, we are playing Hector Herrera and Mateo Kovacic, two central midfielders with good engines, plenty of tenacity in the tackle and enough technical ability to get things ticking over at the other end of the pitch. These two will be expected to be lively in the centre, looking to press on any Arsenal players that attempt to carry the ball through the middle and disrupt play so that Arsenal can’t start any fluid attacks. They will also be the first line of our attack as they will be looking to regain possession in the middle of the park and immediately initiate the counter.
By playing a deep, counter attacking game (think in terms of Man Utd v Arsenal circa 2009) we will invite the opposition defence to come forward, which will leave a lot of space in behind and highlight major flaws in their back line.
As soon as we get hold of the ball, we will be looking to break forward quickly and in numbers. With Benzema up top, he has perfected the art of holding up play and bringing pacey wingers in to the game and he will be looking to do that with Ribery and Sterling bombing down the wings. Kovacic and Herrera will also be looking to move up the pitch with pace which will give us a staggered five-prong attack in a kind-of zig-zag formation, with Ribery, Sterling and Benzema heading the trident and Kovacic and Herrera providing the support.
By going forward quickly in numbers we will be looking to, not only, overload Arsenal’s defence (especially if their offensive minded full backs have ventured forward) by stretching it out and causing their players to furiously back track, but it also gives us enough players in reserve to deal with any counter-counter attacks. This too will be highlighted in a zig-zag formation, with Luis, Gustavo and Sagna as the first line Marquinhos and Koscielny at the second. This serves the dual purpose of providing a bit of slack in our formation so that we can’t be undone by a long ball over the top and it also provides an outlet for our players so that Utd can’t just squeeze our attempted offensive in to one corner and stifle the attack.
I want to make it clear, also, that if we happen to lose possession in the counter, we absolutely must rush back to get in to our defensive positions and prepare for the next offensive.
Substitutions:
70 minutes: Schurrle for Sterling and Paredes for Herrera: Schurrle will add fresh legs, a good work ethic and some brilliant finishing abilities to the cause while Paredes will take up his holding role, similar to how he does at Roma, alongside Gustavo, bolstering defence and allowing Kovacic more freedome to influence the play.
75 minutes: Bernardo Silva for Ribery: With Silva and Schurrle now on, we have two wingers who are adept at playing on either flank and centrally, this means that these two players will be given the freedom to drift around the pitch in to areas where they can be most effective, looking specifically for that weak spot in the opposition defence.
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