swap Blind for Chilwell please Blind no longer with me
---------------------Forster---------------------
Coleman---van Dijk----Kompany---Kolarov
----------------Matic------Kante---------------
Mahrez------------Haddadi------------Willian
--------------------Lacazette-------------------
Pickford, Blind, Keane, Oscar, Gotze, Ziyech, Dembele
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.
Coleman and Kolarov are allowed to attack. When the fullbacks attack I want them up supporting our wingers getting beyond the wide forwards to give us some width and get to the bye line, so Mahrez and Willian can cut in if they wish and support Lacazette. Put in crosses for him to attack. When defending the lines, push there wingers out wide and stay on feet, dont dive in, this will force the player back or into a space they cant get out of.
With two attacking fullbacks with freedom we are going to look and play a compact midfield to reduce the time they have on the ball. Kante and Matic 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. Matic takes up the main role of marking there attacking midfielder. He is a very in your face type character so as is Kante so there midfielders wont have much time on the ball.
Mahrez and Willian will play with freedom to attack and support Haddadi 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, we may seem like it is all about attack with the fullbacks attacking but when they attack Mahrez and Willian will push wide to stop there fullbacks if needed and support Kolarov and Coleman. 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.
Haddadi will be the link that will get the ball from midfield to attack, his passing is sublime and he has bursts of energy that sees him passed players. 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.
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 Haddadi who will be up in support a lot, always looking to go for goal and two good feet, with support from our fullbacks, Willian 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, we have to go 110% for 90 minutes and show we are not just here to make up the numbers!
Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Lacazette
Free Kicks - Mahrez
Corners - Haddadi
Substitutes
If we are losing, Gotze will come on for Haddadi on 55 minutes
On 70 Mins Kolarov will go into a back 3 and Dembele will come on for Coleman and go up front 3412, Ziyech will come on for Mahrez on 80 minutes
If we are winning then on 70 Minutes Blind will come on for Haddadi and move in beside Matic and Kante, and Dembele for Lacazette on 80 minutes
Drawing then Gotze for Haddadi, Dembele for Lacazette and Oscar for Matic on 70 minutes, Oscar will provide more attacks from deep
Arsenal vs Pompey
Injuries: De Sciglio, Romagnoli, Gray, Mandzukic
…………………………………….Hart…………………………………..
Hysaj………………Chiellini……Romagnoli……….Gaya
……………………….Marchisio…….Luiz………………….
Berardi…………………Fabregas……………….Di Maria
………………………………Ronaldo…………………………
Subs: Patricio, Garay, Cataldi, Valero, Anderson, Michy B, El Shaarawy
Going well in the cups and with Fan not going full strength vs Spurs we most likely need a win or face going out, With this in mind I’ve gone against my principles and picked a 4-2-3-1
The key to any system is all about balance – this side is nicely balanced with a solid spine, bags of pace out-wide and a clinical goal scorer up-top.
We want nice fast paced one or two touch passing, leave it all on the field today don’t want to leave any what-if’s, you never know what’s gonna happen in the other game.
The Defence:
Although a loss will surely see us out, we have to go for looking for the win, so we want a high-line with the aim of pushing Pompey deeper back into their own half, Hysaj and Gaya will push on at will as we look to really get at Pompey from the start, unsettle them and keep them on the back foot….Chiellini will man-mark their striker (presuming they go one-up-top) Romagnoli will be the spare man dealing with any runners from midfield as well as using his pace as an insurance policy incase the striker gives Chiellini the slip.
The Midfield:
Marchisio and Luiz are both great athletes and will go box to box in tandem, we want to harry Pompeys attacking players on their “touch” keep them with their back to goal as much as possible, Chiellini and Roma are solid in the air and with Luiz at DM we get even more aerial presence at the back. Both men are comfortable on the ball and will look to keep it moving forwards and quickly – Both are also capable of driving it forwards with the ball at their feet, drawing players into them before offloading it to a team-mate.
The Three Amigo’s:
Berardi and ADM will be inside-forwards today attacking the spaces between Full-backs & Centre-backs – this gives room for our own Full-backs to run the line giving us 6 players in the final third. If you need a player who can receive the ball in a tight spot and pick a pass then its Cesc Fabregas – playing in the hole today, will drop off to help Luiz and Marchisio in midfield but with the passing range to inject some speed and urgency to our attack whether its spread wide or long over the top for Ronaldo to chase down.
Ronaldo – is there a better “lone forward” ? Pace, Power, good in the air and a great finisher…he has a tendency to drift about the pitch which isn’t really a bad thing in our system as Berardi or ADM will go in the middle – shoot on site policy for Ronnie today – gotta buy a ticket to win the raffle
Subs 65 mins:
Felipe Anderson > Berardi
El Egypt > ADM
Man United
-----------------------Leno-----------------
-----Dier----Sokratis---Umtiti----Milner---
---------------Dembele----Ramsey-----------
---Candreva----------Ozil----------Draxler---
------------------------Cavani--------------------
Subs: Hassan, Meunier, Evans, Banega, McCarthy, Navas, Mandzukic.
Local derby in the league cup and being at home we will look to really put the pressure on City at home and press them high and hurry their passes.
We have 4 at the back who will be a unit and have a block of 4 defensively and Dembele and Ramsey will drop back, mark space and close down to offer protection in front of the defence. Dier and Milner both tuck in when they have possession so that there isn't any space for their creative players to play passes. Sokratis will pick up their main forward and use his power and tackling ability in order to limit his threat throughout the game. Umititi will sit and sweep in behind the whole defence and organise along with Leno in goal. Dier and Milner will push out to their wing backs on the ball. We will look to sit in when City have possession roughly about 35 yards from goal. If they are not in this zone, we will push up and our midfield will put pressure on them and our wingers will pressurise their full backs until they are forced backwards to their centre backs. Our back 4 will keep their shape and play a high line so that any long balls we can look to isolate their striker and make it difficult for him to link the play together.
In the middle third we press them well and look to win the ball back in high areas to keep the pressure on their defence as often as possible. Once we win the ball, we will look to keep hold of possession and build up our attacks and have patience rather than looking for the killer ball immediately and we want City to chase the ball for long periods. We will want to build up our attacks and be patient with the ball and don't rush the final ball.
Going forward, Dembele and Ramsey will look to push on and really put their defence under pressure as often as possible and really pin their midfield in. As City only play with wing backs, we will look to exploit this space out wide by doubling up by having both of our full backs bomb forward and make runs beyond the wingers as we want to stretch their defensive 3 as much as possible. We want to put quality and dangerous crosses into the box as often as possible and get many bodies in there so somebody can get on the end of it or we can pick up the 2nd balls in the area. Ozil will look to float around looking for space between the lines and looking to pick up the ball in threatening areas. We will look for him to link between the midfield and attack as often as possible and look to split their defence open when we can with balls in behind. If not, we will look to keep possession, keep patient and build up our attacks once again. Candreva and Draxler operate as our wide men, they play right on the wing backs and wait for the full backs to bomb forward and look for the overlap. Both Draxler and Milner on the left side will want to come forward, cut inside onto their stronger right foot and get a better angle for the cross into the box. Cavani needs to work with Ozil, follow with his movement and link with him. He needs to be close to Ozil as often as he can so he can link with the midfield and keep building up the attacks. He needs to look to make runs in behind when he can to give himself the best chance of getting himself a goal. He needs to be attacking all crosses that come into the box and looking to anticipate 2nd balls near the balls and he needs to be looking to gamble on any low crosses as well.
Subs:
65 mins - Meunier > Ramsey - Dier into CM, Meunier goes RB, extra cover in midfield and fresh full backs legs.
75 mins - Mandzukic > Cavani, Extra height in the air from crosses, aim for him in the area as the target man.
80 mins - Banega > Dembele, Fresh creative legs in midfield and look to make an impact to the tempo of our possession to kill off the game/get us back into the game.
Hull - Weiser, Biglia, Keita, brandt
Captain: Süle
Penalties: Werner (Pohjanpalo)
Free Kicks: Geis
-----------------------------Horn
Klostermann------Stark-------Süle-------Henrichs
-------------------Geis-----------Dahoud
-----Óliver---------------Schöpf--------------Gnabry
----------------------------Werner
Subs: Karius, Wimmer, Goretzka, Kampl, Volland, Vietto, Pohjanpalo
Our defensive unit consists of Niklas Stark and Niklas Süle paired up at centre-back, Lukas Klostermann 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 dead ball specialist, so do watch out for his renowned pin-point accuracy.
The attacking unit consists of Óliver Torres, Alessandro Schöpf and Serge Gnabry 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.
Klostermann 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 Oliver Torres and Serge Gnabry who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Alessandro Schöpf 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. Schöpf 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 Oliver, Gnabry or Werner in via fast passing combinations.
Very much like his comrades (Óliver Torres, Schöpf & Gnabry), Timo Werner is blessed with 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 70 Mins: Goretzka on for Dahoud
Goretzka has a massive engine on him and will bring a fresh intensity in terms of his pressing game. The midfield is where this game may be won or lost, and we do not intend on losing this battle.
Sub 80 Mins: Pohjanpalo on for Werner
Pohjanpalo is gaining a reputation as a super sub so with 10 mins to go, and if we badly need a goal then he may be our go-to-man.
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
5. Zabaleta — 3. Bailly — 4. Benatia — 6. Sandro
—————— 34. Coquelin —— 18. Kovavic
10. Robben ————— 17. de Bruyne ————— 11. Reus
————————————— 9. Higuain
SUBS: 31. Begovic, 12. Smalling, 16. De Rossi, 42. Yaya Toure, 23. Eriksen, 8. Coutinho, 37. Son
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 Coquelin coming into the side bringing his energy with him, helping to dominate the middle of the park with Kovacic against Brum's strong midfield. 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 Coquelin and Kovacic will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. Coq and Kovacic 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 Coq and Kovacic 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. Kovacic 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 Robben and Reus 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, Robben and KDB to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on Yaya 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 Coq. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Kovacic will drop back to DM to control the game while KDB and Coutinho 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 Kovacic in the middle and Robben on the right Reus on the left. Son and Higgers up front.
Man City
---------------------- Butland ----------------------
------------ S. de Vrij ------ Howedes ------------
Cuadrado --------- Wanyama ---------- J.Hector
---------------- Witsel ------ Gomes ---------------
-------- Embolo ----- Icardi ----- Kelechi --------
Batalla, Savic, E.Can, Mirallas, Tadic, Sansone, Piszczek
We have nothing to lose but a Derby as we are out of the competition already, we go in to attack Utd and get right in there faces, we will play a high line and hopefully get into them and force them back
Our CBs will stay focussed on the striker, de Vrij as the quicker of the two will pick him up in open play, Howedes will pick him up at set pieces, they will work this out between them, as one is picking up the other will be spare to help out/double up or watch for others coming through.
Now the three in front will watch there AMs mano o mano, they press them from the off, get stuck right into them, they wont like it. This will be a typical derby and a hard game so we are prepared. So picked three players in these positions that are not afraid to get stuck in, they don't have too attack, I mean they can move up to half way when they have the ball but look to lay the ball off to the attacker.
Witsel and Gomes in the middle are both ball players who again are not scared to go in hard on the opposition, they will get the ball from deep and look to break forward and play the front three into goal scoring positions, play possession football, even if they have to play it back to start again then so be it.
We have an exciting front three, no fcking about today we want to win this match, all three will be a pain as they look to move around up top, play on the last foot which will stop there defence pushing forward, they wont be able to pick any of them up due to there movement, but once the ball is played into them they will be right on it looking to get in on goal. No need to defend just stop there defenders going forward by making them fearful of a quick counter by us when we play 3 up front.
Captain - Howedes
Pens - Kelechi
Free Kicks - Gomes
Corners - Embolo/Sansone
Subs -
60 Mins - Emre Can for Witsel - fresh legs
70 Mins - Sansone for Embolo
80 Mins -
Losing - Tadic for Hector play as a winger
Winning - Savic for Kelechi go into a back 3
Drawing - Piszczek for Cuadrado
--------------------Lloris
Clyne---Manolas----Tah----Bertrand
----------------Henderson
----------Verratti--------Herrera
Dembele-------------------------Lemar
-------------------Kane
Subs
Ward, Bartra, Juanfran, Tolisso, Lallana, Bernadeschi, Sturridge
Lloris 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 the front 5 to get those quick counters started.
Manolas 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 always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possesion 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 when 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 Kane, 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 Kane 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.
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 - Verratti 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 Kane 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, Dembele and Lemar flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Henderson 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. Herrera takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt and occasionally providing the short option to try and draw 2 defenders out of the box.
Free Kicks - Lemar takes Direct FK's
For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners
Penalties - Kane is the designated taker.
Subs
If Winning
70 mins - Lallana for Dembele - 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 - Bernadeschi for Lemar and Tolisso for Verratti - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Lallana and Juanfran for Henderson and Clyne - Verratti drops deeper. Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
70 Mins - Sturridge, Bartra and Lallana for Bertrand, Henderson and Clyne - 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.
Stoke City v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Injuries: Vrsaljko, Mata, Giroud
Ter Stegen
De Marcos - Ginter - Rudiger - Monreal
Cazorla - Schneiderlin
Walcott - Rooney - Chamberlain
Lukaku
Subs: Heaton, Williams, Gustavo, Castro, Deulofeu, Asensio, Slimani
-----------------
Very tough game today against Stoke, going with the plan of dominating the midfield we aim to give ourselves the best possible chance of success today.
Going full strength today, taking no chances as Stoke are a very good side and we want to make sure we advance in this cup. Ter Stegen in goal, De Marcos, Ginter, Rudiger and Monreal in defence, Cazorla and Schneiderlin in midfield, Walcott, Rooney and Oxlade-Chamberlain behind Lukaku upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting through today. Stoke have some class players in their side although we have some class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front four with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a duo who can dictate the game in Cazorla and Schneiderlin, with Rooney ahead of them, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Walcott at RW and Chamberlain at LW both able to use their pace and get at the Stoke defence with De Marcos and Monreal overlapping. Lukaku upfront to give us a physical presence and somebody who is able to hold up possession as well as create chances for himself and his teammates.
Ter Stegen - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Lukaku.
Ginter/Rudiger - Rudiger to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Ginter to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their second striker/AM making runs from midfield. If they play two strikers pick up a man each and leave Schneiderlin to deal with the AM. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
De Marcos/Monreal - Both of you to force the Stoke wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Walcott/Chamberlain as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Lukaku and link with Cazorla/Schneiderlin/Rooney. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Cazorla/Schneiderlin - Cazorla playing the box to box role, assist Schneiderlin in dealing with the Stoke attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Schneiderlin stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Schneiderlin to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Cazorla to burst forward to join the front four on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others.
Walcott/Chamberlain - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Stoke fullbacks and get crosses in, but both of you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Lukaku with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Cazorla/Schneiderlin/Rooney, and capitalise on the space Lukaku's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.
Rooney - Roony to burst forward to join the front three as our AM, look to receive the ball and run at the Stoke defence, bring the ball to create space for others and look for the runs of Walcott/Chamberlain/Lukaku. Shoot if you get into position, also force the Stoke defenders to foul you when you're attacking as we can be lethal from setpieces. Link with Lukaku regularly. Able to drop into midfield with Cazorla/Schneiderlin when under pressure and make a 4-5-1. Get behind Lukaku on occasion.
Lukaku - you will be expected to occupy the Stoke centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Rooney on occasion.
------------------
Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Rooney and Lukaku off, Gustavo and Slimani on. Switch to 4-5-1, Gustavo alongside Cazorla and Schneiderlin in midfield, Walcott at RM and Chamberlain LM. Slimani like for like upfront. Absorb pressure and hit on the break.
If drawing: Lukaku off, Slimani on. Same system but fresh legs upfront. De Marcos and Monreal push forward to overlap the wingers more often and push for the winner.
If losing: Schneiderlin and De Marcos off, Asensio and Slimani on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, back three of Ginter, Rudiger and Monreal, Cazorla the playmaker, Walcott, Rooney, Asensio and Chamberlain behind a front two of Slimani and Lukaku. Push for goals.
Balanced 4-3-3
Key to our game plan today, is quick passing moves in the midfield and using our pace out wide.
We have fantastic pace down the wings, with Ibra providing a target up top, and someone to play off going forward. The central midfield trio are full of energy and give us a solid midfield in front of the defence.
Javi is the holding player today, Vidal box to box and Brozo the more attacking of the trio. Going forward we vary our attacks. The majority of the time, we look for quick fluid passing movements but we will be direct now and then.
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.
In the middle of the park, the midfield trio look to keep the ball on the deck passing in triangles, triangles that are directed out wide as gaps appear in the opposition formation, we look to shift the ball wider as we advance into the opposition half. This will be key to our attacks, as we look to overload one side of the play.
Drag their players out of position, and getting Vidal and Brozo on the ball to create the chances. Using the pace of our wide men, and the link up play of Ibra to cut through Villa. After Villa attacks, we will also try the odd long ball, either direct to Ibra or over the top for the pace of our wingers to run on to.
We defend in a rigid defensive unit behind the ball, the two closest players pressing the balls, the others getting back and pressing the space so that they have no options to break.
-------------- Schmeichel
Danilo - S.Ramos – Vallejo - Kurzawa
----------- Javi.M – A.Vidal
---------------- Brozovic
L.Sane ------------------------ A.Correa
------------- Ibrahimovic
Subs. Handanovic, Otamendi, Kroos, James.R, D.Silva, Hazard, 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.
As Villa 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 who presses the space in front of our cbs, picking up their CAM.
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. Brozo presses their deep playmaker/cm, while Vidal presses the space in front of Javi.
The winger opposite to the play comes narrow, slightly ahead of the midfield, in a position to break, and stop them going back to their dm to switch the play. Narrowing the play to the side Villa 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 our wingers, get them attacking their fbs, and get balls into Ibra. Or direct to Ibra.
In possession, the defence push up playing a reasonably high line as all are comfortable in possession and have great pace. The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game.
Javi and Vidal picking the passes to start the attacks. They take turns to look for space in between the defence and midfield. They both have the ability to link with our front three and be a threat in and around their box.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Vidal, Brozo 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.
Captain: Ramos
Subs.
After 65 mins bring on Silva for Brozovic.
After 70 mins bring on Hazard and Costa for Correa and Ibra.
------------------------ Navas ------------------
Carvajal ---- Hummels ---- Laporte ----- Digne
-------------------- Fernandinho ------------------
Coman -------- Khedira -- Gundogan ----- Costa
------------------------ Morata
Subs: Neuer, Varane, Guerreiro, Carrick, Payet, Moura, Lewandowski
Looking to close out the group and stay in top spot, strong side picked looking to play possession based with plenty of width. Arsenal need to win so will look to come at us, we stay patient, spray the ball at will and look for space in between the lines and in the final third.
We should look to play at a high tempo, creating as many lines as possible, nothing risky or needlessly losing possession however, allow the opposition to come at us and pick them off. Movement is essential, front 3 should always look to roam and pick up pockets of space, late runs into the box from our mf duo with Fernandinho providing the cover behind them.
Emphasis will be on dominating 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. Ball retention is also vitally important so if there is no easy opening, pass the ball about and create one in time.
Deep defensive line looking to minimize the threat they pose with the pace of their attackers. Fernandinho sits in as cover and is the link between defence and attack, Carvajal/Digne take it in turns to bomb forward with the other sitting back.
Navas 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.
We need to be highly structured at all times and work as a unit. When defending we stay compact in a 4-1-4-1, two banks of four with a rigid 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.
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 into 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, have a right go at their backline and fullbacks, penetrate and create holes and always on the run, never standing still.
Wingers are key today 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 forwards 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 to an attacker in space, 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.
Morata 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, press front the front.
Subs:
65th minute - If winning - (4-1-4-1 )
Moura > Costa
Carrick > Khedira
Stay compact and rigid, hit them on the break.
70th minute – if draw - (4-5-1)
Lewandowski > Morata
Payet > Coman (Costa RW, Payet LW)
Guerreiro > Digne
Dominate, link with fluidity and probe for a winner.
70th minute - If losing (4-4-2)
Lewandowski > Gundogan
Moura > Coman
Payet > Costa
4-4-2, Lewandowski joins Morata up front, Payet and Moura on the wings with support from FB's, we go all out looking to get back in the game.
C – Hummels
FK’s – Gundogan
Corners – Gundogan
Pens - Morata
Comment deleted by Article Creator
----------------------- DeGea -----------------------
P.Lahm ---- Boateng ----- Bonucci ---- Ricardo
--------- Modric --- Busquets --- Pogba ---------
Sanchez ------------ Aguero ------------ Neymar
Lafont, Stones, Bender, Alli, Benteke, Gabigol, Dybala
In goal De Gea, a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, leads by example from the back, shouting instructions to hos defenders. Out quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.
Boateng alongside Bonucci again at CB, on this occassion Bonucci will man mark the CF, we must still be wary of whoever it is. Bonucci is quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, will keep the CF away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Boateng alongside is fantastic v big men and 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, will help out Bonucci if needed.
Ricardo and Lahm at fullback, when we attack one goes at a time the other sits back. When they attack I want them bombing down the wing over lapping the winger to allow them to cut inside, quick passing between the two to get them passed the opposition fullback, which will see the fullback drive towards the bye line to get a quick cross in. If its not a cross then look for the winger inside to play a quick pass back to them so they can drive into the box. Defending both will have to be vigilant and always mindful of the tricks the opposite winger can do. Be onto them quickly not allowing them the time to get going, push them out wide and stop them becoming a threat.
We go with a midfield 3 of Modric, Busquets and Pogba, three absolute workhorses, with fantastic defensive attributes as well as being good on the attack, when we defend they will work together to shut there midfield going man for man, Busquets will pick up the most advanced midfielder, the second most advanced will be picked up by one of the other two depending what side he goes to thus allowing our 3rd player to be free to close down the DM if he decideds to roam , they will close down everything very quickly and not allow there players any time on the ball whatsoever, once the ball is won, then Modric/Pogba will drive forward leaving Busquets to sit in and depending on which fullback is attacking Modric/Pogba will cover for the marauding fullbacks who will drive on into support the front three, they all have impressive workrate so if the ball is lost they track back and provide a formidible barrier for them to try and break down. they all have a great eye for a pass so look to control things and pass about with ease looking for the break, especially Modric who will control things in the centre, alot will go through him so others will make sure they are ready for a pass to feet from him, they can shoot from a variety of angles. look out for Neymar and Sanchez coming inside and put some nice crisp through balls into them and Aguero and the wingers cutting in. Quick passing from the three as to not be shut down by the opposition midfielders.
Sanchez and Neymar both quick with nimble feet which more often than not takes them passed the fullback, wether they knock it passed them and drive on or simple a quick turn, and there away. Will have fullbacks supporting them so this allows them to pass and cut inside where both are very useful. Give and go, wait for the return and go for goal, or look to drive into the box in support of Aguero. Neymar focusses more on the tricks and twists to see him passed, whereas Sanchez likes to make the pass that gives him time to look for space for him to drive into and use the CMs and wait for the return. Also alot of the time Ricardo/Lahm will be up so they will be troublesome for the fullbacks. . When defending look to get back and stop there defenders becoming a threat. Like said they support the defenders when they have the ball and the defenders support them when we attack.
Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away this side who will be solid at the back. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Our forwards must hit them with pace and look to run them ragged with there movement. Aguero is surprisingly good in the air and two good feet, can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front three will be a threat today we must go for it. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Neymar and Sanchez running into support. With others (Modric/Pogba/FB's)making dangerous runs into the area also
A very difficult game but we have a good side defensively and going forward, quick passing, one twos and drive into positions to receive a return ball, we really must go fr it, at the same time nothing risky.
Captain - Lahm
Penalties - Neymar
Free kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Losing
70 Mins - Dybala > Pogba 442
80 Mins - Benteke for Aguero look to bully tiring cbs & Alli on for Ricardo 3412
Winning -
70 Mins - Bender > Modric to shore it up a bit
80 Mins - Benteke > Aguero to hold things up if needed and bully Cbs
Drawing -
70 Mins - Gabigol > Sanchez, Dybala > Pogba sit just off Aguero
80 Mins - Benteke for Aguero
Arsenal away at Pompey
Injuries: Walcott – Gaya – Romagnoli – Garay
……………………………….Buffon…………………………
……………..Rugani…..Manolas……Chiellini………..
Hysaj…………Marchisio………….Herrera………..De Sciglio
…………………………………Fabregas……………………………
………………………..Bacca……….Ronaldo…………………..
Subs: Hart, Dier, Valero, Gagliardini, Berardi, Anderson, Michy B
Capt – Buffon
Corners – Fabregas
Free-kicks (indirect) Cesc
Free-licks (direct) Ronaldo
Pens – Ronaldo
Another week and another game against Pompey – we won but ultimately drew against them in the cup last weekend and now we head down to Fratton Park….Pompey much like ourselves are better than the league table suggests – so even though we’re above them in the table and in the form table we can’t take this game lightly.
Injuries have knackered our defence but we’ve managed to cobble a half decent side together – back to the tried and tested 3-5-2 today, it’s not at the stage of the season where this games a must win but it’s certainly a must not lose game if we retain any hopes of European football next season.
We’ve gone without a holding midfielder purely because with 3 CB’s we can afford to be more pro-active in midfield we want to get a hold of the ball and play the game on the ground nice slick passing – The ball is always quicker than the man, so let the ball do the work…as we go for our own brand of Tiki-Talia (Spanish ball retention meet Italian Catenaccio) – we’re gonna be a little re-active defensively when they get it…no massive heavy press until they get within 30 yards of our goal – then steal the ball and break – as the great Inter coach Herrera once said the ideal is to get into the opponents box in no more than 3 passes – I know this paragraph contradicts itself BUT it doesn’t really – when we have controlled possession and they have men back we use it cleverly, move the ball and Pompeys players about before hitting fast – when we counter we go fast and direct – 3 touches from back to front no way Pompey’s players can cover 100 metres quicker than the ball.
It is important to stress that there is nothing inherently defensive about three-at-the-back; formations, after all, are neutral, and it is their application that defines the overall approach. Indeed, two sides can employ the same formation in very different ways: Antonio Conte’s Juventus pressed high and dominated possession when using a 3-5-2, while Walter Mazzarri’s Inter preferred to sit deep before getting the ball forward quickly in transition.
Nevertheless, the 3-5-2 invariably satisfies the Italian desire for security that catenaccio also aimed to assuage. Against a 4-4-2, it offers a spare man in both defence and midfield, the former providing cover as the other two defenders pick up the opposition striker, the latter boosting a team’s chances of controlling the ball. This extra midfielder is lost against a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, but since the 3-5-2 then benefits from a 3 v 1 at the back, one of the centre backs can step forward into midfield when in possession, a role expertly performed by Leonardo Bonucci at Juventus.
Gigi Buffon – The man, The myth, The legend – comes in for his Arsenal debut still one of the very best in the business, commands the respect of the team and will lead by example, has spent pretty much is whole career behind a back-three so makes sense for him to come in and play his natural game.
The Defence:
We presume Pompey will go one up top which suits us just fine – if it’s 2 then that’s cool as well – such is the advantage of the 3 at the back – Manolas and Rugani are pretty quick so we go with a high defensive line today to compact the pitch – makes our long direct counter attacking game more potent but also means we can play keep ball – if it’s one up top then Manolas is the man-marker – big strong and very quick whether its Lewa or Morata he faces he has the skill-set – if they both play then Rugani goes spare, Chiellini and Manolas take one each (Chiellini/Lewa and Manolas/Morata)
The Midfield:
Hysaj and De Sciglio will provide the width – more wingers than wing-backs – will obvs need to be aware defensively BUT 2 at the back gives enough security through the middle that we can concede some width – they aint scoring from out there so the balls gotta come into the box and we three 6-footers ready to deal with it……Marchisio and Herrera both have a great worth ethic and are comfortable with ball to feet – I think their link up play with Cesc who’s playing as the #10 should be able to create considerable chances for our front-men to exploit – No proper ball winner in there but they can all put their foot in well enough.
The Attack:
Bacca is your stereotypical goal-scoring #9 – he won’t be massively involved in the build up play but we don’t need him to, I want him on the shoulder of the last defender only coming back deep enough to stay onside – play on his toes ready to spin and sprint into space as our defence send one over the top.
Ronaldo – given a free role today – has the physical attributes to be a great striker, plus the speed and skill to tear it up out-wide – will drift along the front line, linking play and getting on the end of balls into the box – he does well we do well.
Subs 65 mins
Dier > Herrera
Berardi > Bacca
Felipe > Fabregas
Attacking 4-3-3
Key to our game plan today, is quick passing moves in the midfield and using our pace out wide.
We have fantastic pace down the wings, with Costa providing energy, power and someone to play off and run in behind. The central midfield trio are full of energy and give us a solid midfield in front of the defence.
Javi is the holding player today, Vidal box to box and Kroos the more attacking of the trio. Going forward we vary our attacks. The majority of the time, we look for quick fluid passing movements but we will be direct now and then.
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.
In the middle of the park, the midfield trio look to keep the ball on the deck passing in triangles, triangles that are directed out wide as gaps appear in the opposition formation, we look to shift the ball wider as we advance into the opposition half. This will be key to our attacks, as we look to overload one side of the play.
Drag their players out of position, and getting Vidal and Kroos on the ball to create the chances. Using the pace of our wide men. After City attacks, we will also try the odd long ball, either direct to Costa or over the top for the pace of our forwards to run on to.
We defend in a rigid defensive unit behind the ball, the two closest players pressing the balls, the others getting back and pressing the space so that they have no options to break.
--------------- Handanovic
Danilo - S.Ramos – Otamendi - Kurzawa
----------- Javi.M – A.Vidal
---------------- T.Kroos
A.Correa ------------------------ Hazard
---------------- D.Costa
Subs. Schmeichel, Barzagli, Brozovic, Sane, Otavio, Benzema
Key to our attack is quick attacking play. Varying our play and how we get the ball to our wingers/Costa quickly. Both full backs bomb forward in attack, with Javi sitting to cover.
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 Hazard and Benzema 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.
As City 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 who presses the space in front of our cbs, picking up their CAM.
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. Kroos presses their deep playmaker/cm, while Vidal presses the space in front of Javi.
The winger opposite to the play comes narrow, slightly ahead of the midfield, in a position to break, and stop them going back to their dm to switch the play. Narrowing the play to the side City 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 our wingers, get them attacking their fbs, and get balls into Costa.
In possession, the defence push up playing a reasonably high line as all are comfortable in possession and have great pace. The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game.
Javi and Vidal picking the passes to start the attacks. They take turns to look for space in between the defence and midfield. They both have the ability to link with our front three and be a threat in and around their box.
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.
Costa has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals.
Captain: Ramos
Subs.
If winning after 65 mins bring on Sane for Correa.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Benzema for Costa.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Brozovic for Kroos.
If drawing after 65 mins bring on Benzema for Correa. Costa supports Benzema. More attacking.
If drawing after 72 mins bring on Brozovic for Javi.
If drawing after 85 mins bring on Sane for Danilo. 3-5-2.
If losing after 55 mins bring on Benzema for Correa. 3-4-1-2. Javi to cb. Fbs to wb. Hazard behind.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Sane and Brozovic for Kurzawa and Danilo.
Comment deleted by Article Creator
-------------------- Lodygin --------------------
M.Ginter --- Zouma --- Lovren --- J.Hector
------------------- Wanyama -------------------
--------------- Rabiot --- Gomes --------------
Oxlade --------------------------------- Perotti
--------------------- Icardi ----------------------
Butland, Coleman, Goretzka, J.Correa, Thorgan, Kelechi, Slimani
A very tough game v Leicester sbut we have nothing to lose so go in with no fear
Lodygin in goal is a big powerful goalkeeper, keeps his back four right and positions himself very well and distribution of the ball is also very good, Always makes himself big as he stands tall as forwards come onto him, close them down early and reduce there shooting angles. Punches clear when he cant catch a high ball.
A strong back 4, Ginter in for Coleman for his defensive attributes, solid at fullback and will look to take no prisoners, if its wingers or wingbacks look to push them back and away from the danger area, with good old fashioned in yer face aggressive (but fair) play, make them wary of taking you on, attack when possible but one at a time and support the wingers. Zouma will man mark the striker, he is quick and powerful so wont be bullied, sometimes he is a tad rash so Lovren will lead him through the game together they will look to keep the striker quiet and way out the game, play the passes from deep and don't travel too far when in possession. Zouma up for set pieces.
Wanyama is the destroyer in front, nothing fancy about his game, he protects the back four leaving Rabiot and Gomes to play ball. He doesn't fck about, in hard for the ball win it, pass it, simple stuff reall, no more no less. Get intae them
Rabiot and Gomes when defending will sit either side and create a wall for Leicester to try and break down it will be hard for them but our boys will work there socks off in making sure they do not get a sniff as they can be quite deadly. When we have it look to pass it round Leicester, out to the wings etc , we too have a deadly striker who just needs a glimpse of goal to have a go so lets play the ball in triangles, quick football to get the ball to him. Also time the late runs into the box to support Icardi and get onto crosses from wide.
Oxlade is quick and direct, Perotti will take his man on pass it around and use his skill to beat them, contrasting styles which is good as they will interchange every so often when I say so which will confuse there defenders, along with Icardi these three will be troublesome for Leicesters back line as its all about movement and speed and taking defenders away and opening up gaps for others like Rabiot and Gomes to drive into. Icardi will if he cant fgo for goal look to hold it up for these two coming in and lay it off for them to have a go. Always running about looking to get into space to receive the ball, a perfect No.9
When we defend we defend from the front which means our wingers track back and Icardi will drop if a CB moves forward. Possession football will be hard today as they are obvs a good team but we look at trying to have more positives than negatives in this game, pass it about, don't be frightened to take them on, if first you don't succeed try, try again. I wont shout!
Captain - Lovren
Pens - Icardi
Free Kicks - Perotti
Corners - Perotti
Subs
Losing
70 Mins - Kelechi for Rabiot 442, Coleman for Ginter he is a more attack minded RB
80 Mins - Coleman to RM and Slimani for Oxlade 343
Winning -
70 Mins - |Goretzka for Rabiot
80 Mins - Coleman for Oxlade, Kelechi for Icardi
Drawing - Joaquin Correa for Oxlade, Kelechi for Icardi, Thorgan for Rabiot 4231
Karius, Süle, Óliver, Forsberg
Captain: Geis
Penalties: Werner (Pohjanpalo)
Free Kicks: Geis
-----------------------Horn
Weiser-------Stark-------Kempf-----Henrichs
--------------Geis-----------Dahoud
Mor---------------Schöpf-------------Gnabry
--------------------Werner
Subs: Hennessey, Klostermann, Biglia, Keïta, Kampl, Gerhardt, Pohjanpalo
Our defensive unit consists of Niklas Stark and Marc-Oliver Kempf 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 dead ball specialist, so do watch out for his renowned pin-point accuracy.
The attacking unit consists of Emre Mor, Alessandro Schöpf and Serge Gnabry 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 Emre Mor and Serge Gnabry who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Alessandro Schöpf 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. Schöpf 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 Mor, Gnabry or Werner in via fast passing combinations.
Very much like his comrades (Mor, Schöpf & Gnabry), Timo Werner is blessed with 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 70 Mins: Keïta on for Dahoud
Keïta has a massive engine on him and will bring a fresh intensity in terms of his pressing game. The midfield is where this game may be won or lost, and we do not intend on losing this battle.
Sub 80 Mins: Pohjanpalo on for Werner
Pohjanpalo is gaining a reputation as a super sub so with 10 mins to go, and if we badly need a goal then he may be our go-to-man.
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
5. Zabaleta — 3. Bailly — 4. Benatia — 6. Sandro
—————— 29. Xhaka —— 18. Kovavic
10. Robben ————— 42. Yaya Toure ————— 11. Reus
————————————— 9. Higuain
SUBS: 31. Begovic, 12. Smalling, 38. Barry, 25. Strootman, 23. Eriksen, 8. Coutinho, 21. Gameiro
Captain: Marco Reus
Corners: Marco Reus
Crossing free-kicks: Marco Reus
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 Yaya coming into the side bringing his physicality with him, helping to dominate the middle of the park against a strong midfield as we can drop into a 433 with Yaya who can also provide a goal threat. 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 Xhaka and Kovacic will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. Xhaka and Kovacic 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. Yaya 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 Xhaka and Kovacic 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. Kovacic 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, Yaya 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 Robben and Reus 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, Robben and Yaya to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on Strootman for Yaya. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.
If d rawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Coutinho for Yaya. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Xhaka will drop back to DM to control the game while Kovacic and Coutinho 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 Gameiro for Kovacic. Attacking 4-4-2 with Xhaka and Coutinho in the middle and Robben on the right Reus on the left. Gameiro and Higgers up front.
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
5. Zabaleta — 3. Bailly — 4. Benatia — 6. Sandro
—————— 29. Xhaka —— 18. Kovavic
10. Robben ————— 42. Yaya Toure ————— 11. Reus
————————————— 9. Higuain
SUBS: 31. Begovic, 12. Smalling, 38. Barry, 25. Strootman, 23. Eriksen, 8. Coutinho, 21. Gameiro
Captain: Marco Reus
Corners: Marco Reus
Crossing free-kicks: Marco Reus
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 Yaya coming into the side bringing his physicality with him, helping to dominate the middle of the park against a strong midfield as we can drop into a 433 with Yaya who can also provide a goal threat. 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 Xhaka and Kovacic will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. Xhaka and Kovacic 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. Yaya 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 Xhaka and Kovacic 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. Kovacic 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, Yaya 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 Robben and Reus 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, Robben and Yaya to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on Strootman for Yaya. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.
If d rawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Coutinho for Yaya. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Xhaka will drop back to DM to control the game while Kovacic and Coutinho 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 Gameiro for Kovacic. Attacking 4-4-2 with Xhaka and Coutinho in the middle and Robben on the right Reus on the left. Gameiro and Higgers up front.
---------------------Lloris
Rudiger----Pepe----Godin----Bertrand
------Krychowiak------Nainggolan
Mane--------------Ozil------------Firmino
-------------------Suarez
Subs
Patricio, Matip, Wendell, Pjanic, Di Maria, Salah, 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 the front 5 to get those quick counters 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 always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possesion 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 when 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 2 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with Ozil 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 behind 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 - Ozil 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, Firmino and Suarez work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Mane flits 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 go for the odd thundercunt 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 - Pjanic for Ozil - 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 Di Maria for Firmino - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Pjanic for Radja - Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
70 Mins - Sturridge, Matip and Di Maria for Bertrand, Krychowiak and Juanfran - switch to a 3-4-3 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and we go all out attacking for a way to get back into the game.
------------------Forster-----------------
Cedric---van Dijk---Kompany---Blind
-------------Oscar-----Matic-------------
Willian----------Ziyech-----------Turan
-----------------Dembele-----------------
Pickford, Denayer, Lemina, Mahrez, Benassi, Haddadi, Giroud
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.
Cedric and Blind are allowed to attack. When the fullbacks attack I want them up supporting our wingers getting beyond the wide forwards to give us some width and get to the bye line, so Turan and Willian can cut in if they wish and support Dembele. Put in crosses for him to attack. When defending the lines, push there wingers out wide and stay on feet, dont dive in, this will force the player back or into a space they cant get out of.
With two attacking fullbacks with freedom we are going to look and play a compact midfield to reduce the time they have on the ball. Oscar and Matic will be sitting in with either making the occassional run forward, one of them must sit in at all times. Oscar more than Matic will be making these runs. I want them to break their attack up very quickly and get the ball forward or out to our fullbacks. Matic takes up the main role of marking there attacking midfielder. He is a very in your face type character so there midfielders wont have much time on the ball.
Turan and Willian will play with freedom to attack and support Ziyech and Dembele,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, we may seem like it is all about attack with the fullbacks attacking but when they attack Turan and Willian will push wide to stop there fullbacks if needed and support Cedirc and Blind. 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.
Ziyech will be the link that will get the ball from midfield to attack, his passing is sublime and he has bursts of energy that sees him passed players. 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.
Dembele 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 Ziyech who will be up in support a lot, always looking to go for goal and two good feet, with support from our fullbacks, Willian and Turan 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, we have to go 110% for 90 minutes and show we are not just here to make up the numbers!
Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Dembel
Free Kicks - Turan
Corners - Oscar
Substitutes
If we are losing Giroud will come on for Ziyech and Mahrez for Willian and we will play 442 on 70 minutes, Haddadi for Cedric on 80 minutes and we play 343
if we are drawing then Giroud and Mahrez for Dembele and Willian on 70 minutes and Benassi for Ziyech on 80 minutes and he will swap with Oscar
If we are winning then Benassi for Ziych on 70 minutes going into midfield 3 and Goroud for Dembele. and on 80 minutes Denayer for Oscar and Blind goes into midfield and Denayer to LB
-----------------------------------------Cech--------------------------------
Lichtsteiner-----------N Ake--------Verthonghen-----------Rose
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------Hamsik----------Carvalho------------------------------------
Shaqiri--------------------------------------------------------------------------Nolito
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------Vardy------------------Origi-----------------
Subs - Zieler, Shawcross, Sissoko, Young, Mario, Mertens, Rashford
CAPTAIN - CECH
CK'S - NOLITO
FK'S - SHAQIRI
PENALTIES - VARDY
Up against LTSD this week. Watch out for the pace of Aubameyang.
This 4222 formation is solid in defence but also very attacking with 2 strikers up front and 2 wingers.
Defence
I got a world class keeper in goal so he will be hard to beat. The defence is well balanced. Ake and Verthonghen are an excellent partnership and bring experience at the back. Vert 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.
Centre Mids
Hamsik + Carvalho
Hamsik will play a b2b role, while Carvalho will only focus on covering for our players when they are out of position When Hamsik attacks, Carvalho stays back to defend. Close the oppo AM down and don't let the other team have any time on the ball in the centre of midfield. Hamsik has the ability to pick out a pass while Carvalho is an engine which can run all day long. They complement each other perfectly.
Wingers
Shaqiri + Nolito
Nolito is a 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 both are deadly on them. Shaqiri is also a tricky pacy winger who will look to cut in on to his stronger left foot. Confuse the oppo left back by twisting and turning and get some decent crosses in. I want you both to help track back and help the full backs when they are in our half of the pitch.
Strike
Vardy + Origi
I want you both 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. With two fast pacy strikers up front, we're bound to create chances on the counter. Origi will be the muscle in strike. He brings pace AND strenght which is a deadly combo.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Rashford for Origi. Also bring on Young for Nolito and Mertens for Carvalho. Play a high line and try and get a goal.
Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take off Vardy and put on Shawcross in CB and play 5atb ultra defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives. Janssen for Origi aswell.
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Origi off for Rashford
Carvalho off for Sissoko
Nolito off for Young
—————————Courtois
———Alderweireld—-Luiz—-Koulibaly
Azpilicueta———Rakitic—Koke———Marcelo
——————Carrasco———Griezmann
————————Aubameyang
Subs: Scuffet, Terry, Danilo, Jorginho, Lamela, I.Williams, Hernandez
Captain: David Luiz
Free Kicks: David Luiz/Ivan Rakitic
Corners: Ivan Rakitic/Koke
Penalties: Pierre Emerik Aubameyang
Up against a Birmingham side who like to play out from the back, get on the front foot and look to get Jamie Vardy in the channels, we think this is a dangerous game to play against us. We will look to start the game with a high press, using the energy in our front 3 to put their CB’s leaving our CMs to get on theres, our WBs to dominate the flanks and our CBs to boss two average forwards. If that fails, we simply drop deeper, negate the pace of Vardy in the channels and play in the gaps they leave behind.
Today we defend as an 11 in that we will always be compact no matter where the play is, so if we are in their half the defence is pushed up and if we are in our half the forwards are back helping out in that they’ll be between the opposition CMs and CBs so that off the ball they help us defend by pressing them from behind, Carrasco with more responsibility so Griezmann can focus on getting close to Aubameyang. With the 3 CBs and line of 4 that are solid defensively it means that other than this pressing, the forwards can focus on getting forward and hurting the Birmingham defence, looking to transition quickly to 3 v 3’s(Birmingham will push a FB forward in attacks). As previously stated we stay as a group to make it compact, with Koke and Rakitic looking to use this to their advantage, it allows them to work in tandem to slow Birmingham’s attacks down, squeezing the space the man on the ball wants to use, which will allow the energetic WBs and the two wide CBs, as well as Carrasco to do the pressing, these four working constantly, the WBs narrowing in to our compact unit to get a foot in and one forward dropping slightly deeper than the other two, with Alderweireld/Koulibaly able to step out of the back line and use their excellent aggressive form of defending to break down attacks before they can get into our third, knowing that we will always have Luiz’s power and pace behind them to cover as well as two WBs who can drop in if needed, using their pace to get back quickly if we make a mistake. This leaves Luiz as a sweeper to deal with the central strikers movement in behind, looking to bully him out of the game, always putting his body in the way. With this system of defending in mind when Birmingham have the ball deeper we will look to press them into going into the centre where we have the numerical advantage, this allows us to squeeze them then quickly transition the ball to wide areas to attack the game where there is more space.
If Birmingham get into wide areas we narrow to that side of the field with the WB and the CB on that side able to come out and defend against FB and winger, leaving two CBs to deal with the striker and the WB on the opposite side to tuck in so we always have that spare defender, although he will be focused on the winger looking to make inside runs. In these positions we can simply make things too compact to break through, Rakitic and Koke closed right in blocking the route out whilst the forward on that side comes back to press and then act as the link man to the two high forwards who are free of defensive duties, close to the play but in positions where they are focusing on making runs when we win it back rather than trying to get a foot in, unless of course the ball goes back towards where they are. If Birmingham force us right back into our third then we stop the pressing and we squeeze space only, this means a back 5 will be erected, Carrasco and Griezmann will drop in closer to the CMs and we will simply shut up shop and wait for the ball back.
Like previously said the team moves up the field as a unit so when we attack the CBs push up too, so we can make it hard for them to break. Alderweireld and Koulibaly will stretch out slightly so that there are no big gaps left by the WBs pushing up, with Rakitic and Koke also there behind our attacks covering our attackers, this should mean that we can break counters up quickly and get back on the attack quickly, especially by getting the ball out to the wide CBs who can play the WBs in or play the forwards into the channels. Rakitic and Koke look to receive the ball from the defenders and transition it on to the attacking players, inviting the WBs to play high up and feed the 3 forwards into the spaces between defenders, taking in turns to make runs forward to join the from 3. The WBs will look to get forward whenever we win the ball, as soon as it goes to the three forwards they are overlapping and stretching the defence out, Azpilicueta looking to get to the byline, Marcelo can get the ball wide and then look to come infield with his trickery or by playing quick passes with the CMs or the attackers, his penetrating runs provide us with something different and we know their wide men won’t track our WBs. That then leaves the front three, with Carrasco excellent at driving forward and squaring up defenders this means he’s the one that picks the ball up and crosses into the attacking third, looking to move around and link up with the WBs and link midfield to attack, also capable of penetrating the box, leaving Griezmann and Aubameyang the freedom to hurt Birmingham’s back line using their speed and trickery to beat a man and make runs in behind, particularly when one drops deeper towards the ball it drags a CB out and leaves space between the FB(who will have to cover the WBs forward movement and the other CB, if either Griezmann or Aubameyang receives the ball in this gap they are away. All 3 of the forwards are comfortable out wide, they’re all comfortable in field or dropping deep to create things and they are all good at making runs in behind, so we have the movement to make holes in their defence. If they press the midfield we look to get the ball to the WBs high up the pitch with one quick ball forward and look to stretch the game out quickly, distorting their attempts to press us.
Subs:
If Winning: Jorginho and Lamela for Rakitic and Carrasco 70’. Danilo for Griezmann 80’, Koke into AM.
If Drawing: Lamela for Azpilicueta 70’, Hernandez for Griezmann 75’, goes up front with Auba, leaving Carrasco to drift around.
If Losing: Hernandez for Luiz 65’, 4-4-2. Lamela and Jorginho for Carrasco and Koke 75’, fresh legs to do the running.
STOKE CITY v Newcastle
Krul
Fabinho Marquinhos Koscielny Luis
Witsel
Pedro Mkhitaryan Silva Ribery
Ibrahimovic
Substitutes: Jedvaj; Savic; Ponce; Silva; Rode; Welbeck; Perisic
Captain: Koscielny
Penalties: Ibrahimovic
Corners: Ribery
Free Kicks: Ribery
Game Plan:
At home to a solid team with a good defensive structure and good on the counter, we want to use our fluid 4141 line up to dictate the tempo of the game and enjoy the lion's share of the possession. From there, we will be able to stretch out Newcastle's formation and exploit the cracks that appear.
Newcastle's primary threat is their pace on the counter and so we will play with fairly reserved full backs in this game, instead allowing our midfield trio free reign to get forward and attack the back line, assisting our interchangeable forward trio.
We want to attack with a high tempo throughout the game, spreading the ball around at pace so that Newcastle can’t settle and getting play moving forward as quickly as possible.
Pedro and Ribery on the wings will be looking to target the space in between the full backs and the centre backs while Ibrahimovic will be looking to use his significant strength and work rate to cause Newcastle’s centre backs problems. Behind them, Silva will be looking to push up through the centre as our main playmaker while Mkhitaryan will also push forward and provide space with his intelligent runs, leaving Wiesel to hold the centre.
In defence, we want to test how Newcastle’s side does when they are put under significant pressure across the pitch. We don’t want to give them space to play their own game at their own tempo and we don’t want to allow them to control possession.
We want to keep our players as close to theirs throughout the game as possible. We don't want to give them time to relax on the ball and think about where the next pass is going and force them to play with their backs to goal. We want to crowd the pitch, effectively splitting the playing surface in to halves and quadrants, and dictate where they can pass the ball and when.
Ibrahimovic intercepts the space between the CBs so that they can't move the ball along the back four. Our two wingers then press inside and our midfielders press up and stick close to their man so that space is lacking for their centre backs. Along with this, our defensive line presses high so that the midfield becomes further congested (the pace in our back line is more than capable of covering ground in the events of a long ball - hit too long and Krul comes out to mop it up) and the centre back in possession is left with a choice: play it back to the keeper, wherein the play starts again, or attempt a risky ball forward that has a good chance of being intercepted.
If the ball gets out to the full back, we make it a 3-on-1 scenario, we don't want them having an easy time of playing the ball forward. Depending on the wing, that winger will press, Ibrahimovic will come across to cut out passing lanes along the back four and the closest central midfielder will come forward to cut any passes to the midfield. The only option for the full back is backwards. In addition, our entire formation shifts across to plug any gaps in the line and effectively cut off a third of the pitch, making the switch impossible.
If the ball hits the midfield, their attempt will be to get the ball to the forward players are quickly as possible. The first way to stop this is to keep their back to goal, they can’t see the forwards that way. If we are pressing them with their back to goal, we will very rarely get turned (provided the other players close down the passing lanes) and this results usually in a turnover.
The midfielder is in the same dilemma as the defenders here about whether to dribble/pass forward and risk a turnover or pass the ball back and break down the move. The most important part to consider here is that the defenders and midfielders have only a second or two to think this before the ball is taken off them and thus finding the right pass isn’t easy.
If the ball makes it all the way to the front line, somehow, then we drop back deep and defend as a unit, plugging all gaps and not allowing them the space and time to work their way through. At no time do we want them to be in a one-on-one situation in our own half. We must double team them all game so that they can't make use of their technical ability. Even the best players in the world struggle to break through a wall of 10 men and, from here, we can look to spring an instant counter with pace of our own.
Though we will be playing an aggressive pressing game, we don’t want to be aggressive in our tackles. We will not slide in to challenges, rather stand up to our opposition and use our pressing game to force them out of possession without having to make risky challenges.
On the flip side, though, if any of their players pick up a yellow card during the course of play, we want to target their area of the pitch and coax them in to making another foul that will see Newcastle go down to 10 men. No diving, though!
Substitutions:
70 minutes: Welbeck for Pedro - Welbeck will provide pace and a great work ethic to keep Newcastle’s left flank busy late on.
75 minutes: Bernardo Silva for David Silva - Almost a like for like swap, though Bernardo’s fresh legs could prove the difference in the middle.
80 minutes: Rode for Mkhitaryan - Rode will sit next to Wiesel and provide a strong spine that will allow the creative players to push forward and probe for gaps in the tired Newcastle defence late on.
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Tactics
Page 34 of 65
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posted on 23/11/16
swap Blind for Chilwell please Blind no longer with me
posted on 24/11/16
---------------------Forster---------------------
Coleman---van Dijk----Kompany---Kolarov
----------------Matic------Kante---------------
Mahrez------------Haddadi------------Willian
--------------------Lacazette-------------------
Pickford, Blind, Keane, Oscar, Gotze, Ziyech, Dembele
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.
Coleman and Kolarov are allowed to attack. When the fullbacks attack I want them up supporting our wingers getting beyond the wide forwards to give us some width and get to the bye line, so Mahrez and Willian can cut in if they wish and support Lacazette. Put in crosses for him to attack. When defending the lines, push there wingers out wide and stay on feet, dont dive in, this will force the player back or into a space they cant get out of.
With two attacking fullbacks with freedom we are going to look and play a compact midfield to reduce the time they have on the ball. Kante and Matic 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. Matic takes up the main role of marking there attacking midfielder. He is a very in your face type character so as is Kante so there midfielders wont have much time on the ball.
Mahrez and Willian will play with freedom to attack and support Haddadi 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, we may seem like it is all about attack with the fullbacks attacking but when they attack Mahrez and Willian will push wide to stop there fullbacks if needed and support Kolarov and Coleman. 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.
Haddadi will be the link that will get the ball from midfield to attack, his passing is sublime and he has bursts of energy that sees him passed players. 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.
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 Haddadi who will be up in support a lot, always looking to go for goal and two good feet, with support from our fullbacks, Willian 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, we have to go 110% for 90 minutes and show we are not just here to make up the numbers!
Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Lacazette
Free Kicks - Mahrez
Corners - Haddadi
Substitutes
If we are losing, Gotze will come on for Haddadi on 55 minutes
On 70 Mins Kolarov will go into a back 3 and Dembele will come on for Coleman and go up front 3412, Ziyech will come on for Mahrez on 80 minutes
If we are winning then on 70 Minutes Blind will come on for Haddadi and move in beside Matic and Kante, and Dembele for Lacazette on 80 minutes
Drawing then Gotze for Haddadi, Dembele for Lacazette and Oscar for Matic on 70 minutes, Oscar will provide more attacks from deep
posted on 25/11/16
Arsenal vs Pompey
Injuries: De Sciglio, Romagnoli, Gray, Mandzukic
…………………………………….Hart…………………………………..
Hysaj………………Chiellini……Romagnoli……….Gaya
……………………….Marchisio…….Luiz………………….
Berardi…………………Fabregas……………….Di Maria
………………………………Ronaldo…………………………
Subs: Patricio, Garay, Cataldi, Valero, Anderson, Michy B, El Shaarawy
Going well in the cups and with Fan not going full strength vs Spurs we most likely need a win or face going out, With this in mind I’ve gone against my principles and picked a 4-2-3-1
The key to any system is all about balance – this side is nicely balanced with a solid spine, bags of pace out-wide and a clinical goal scorer up-top.
We want nice fast paced one or two touch passing, leave it all on the field today don’t want to leave any what-if’s, you never know what’s gonna happen in the other game.
The Defence:
Although a loss will surely see us out, we have to go for looking for the win, so we want a high-line with the aim of pushing Pompey deeper back into their own half, Hysaj and Gaya will push on at will as we look to really get at Pompey from the start, unsettle them and keep them on the back foot….Chiellini will man-mark their striker (presuming they go one-up-top) Romagnoli will be the spare man dealing with any runners from midfield as well as using his pace as an insurance policy incase the striker gives Chiellini the slip.
The Midfield:
Marchisio and Luiz are both great athletes and will go box to box in tandem, we want to harry Pompeys attacking players on their “touch” keep them with their back to goal as much as possible, Chiellini and Roma are solid in the air and with Luiz at DM we get even more aerial presence at the back. Both men are comfortable on the ball and will look to keep it moving forwards and quickly – Both are also capable of driving it forwards with the ball at their feet, drawing players into them before offloading it to a team-mate.
The Three Amigo’s:
Berardi and ADM will be inside-forwards today attacking the spaces between Full-backs & Centre-backs – this gives room for our own Full-backs to run the line giving us 6 players in the final third. If you need a player who can receive the ball in a tight spot and pick a pass then its Cesc Fabregas – playing in the hole today, will drop off to help Luiz and Marchisio in midfield but with the passing range to inject some speed and urgency to our attack whether its spread wide or long over the top for Ronaldo to chase down.
Ronaldo – is there a better “lone forward” ? Pace, Power, good in the air and a great finisher…he has a tendency to drift about the pitch which isn’t really a bad thing in our system as Berardi or ADM will go in the middle – shoot on site policy for Ronnie today – gotta buy a ticket to win the raffle
Subs 65 mins:
Felipe Anderson > Berardi
El Egypt > ADM
posted on 25/11/16
Man United
-----------------------Leno-----------------
-----Dier----Sokratis---Umtiti----Milner---
---------------Dembele----Ramsey-----------
---Candreva----------Ozil----------Draxler---
------------------------Cavani--------------------
Subs: Hassan, Meunier, Evans, Banega, McCarthy, Navas, Mandzukic.
Local derby in the league cup and being at home we will look to really put the pressure on City at home and press them high and hurry their passes.
We have 4 at the back who will be a unit and have a block of 4 defensively and Dembele and Ramsey will drop back, mark space and close down to offer protection in front of the defence. Dier and Milner both tuck in when they have possession so that there isn't any space for their creative players to play passes. Sokratis will pick up their main forward and use his power and tackling ability in order to limit his threat throughout the game. Umititi will sit and sweep in behind the whole defence and organise along with Leno in goal. Dier and Milner will push out to their wing backs on the ball. We will look to sit in when City have possession roughly about 35 yards from goal. If they are not in this zone, we will push up and our midfield will put pressure on them and our wingers will pressurise their full backs until they are forced backwards to their centre backs. Our back 4 will keep their shape and play a high line so that any long balls we can look to isolate their striker and make it difficult for him to link the play together.
In the middle third we press them well and look to win the ball back in high areas to keep the pressure on their defence as often as possible. Once we win the ball, we will look to keep hold of possession and build up our attacks and have patience rather than looking for the killer ball immediately and we want City to chase the ball for long periods. We will want to build up our attacks and be patient with the ball and don't rush the final ball.
Going forward, Dembele and Ramsey will look to push on and really put their defence under pressure as often as possible and really pin their midfield in. As City only play with wing backs, we will look to exploit this space out wide by doubling up by having both of our full backs bomb forward and make runs beyond the wingers as we want to stretch their defensive 3 as much as possible. We want to put quality and dangerous crosses into the box as often as possible and get many bodies in there so somebody can get on the end of it or we can pick up the 2nd balls in the area. Ozil will look to float around looking for space between the lines and looking to pick up the ball in threatening areas. We will look for him to link between the midfield and attack as often as possible and look to split their defence open when we can with balls in behind. If not, we will look to keep possession, keep patient and build up our attacks once again. Candreva and Draxler operate as our wide men, they play right on the wing backs and wait for the full backs to bomb forward and look for the overlap. Both Draxler and Milner on the left side will want to come forward, cut inside onto their stronger right foot and get a better angle for the cross into the box. Cavani needs to work with Ozil, follow with his movement and link with him. He needs to be close to Ozil as often as he can so he can link with the midfield and keep building up the attacks. He needs to look to make runs in behind when he can to give himself the best chance of getting himself a goal. He needs to be attacking all crosses that come into the box and looking to anticipate 2nd balls near the balls and he needs to be looking to gamble on any low crosses as well.
Subs:
65 mins - Meunier > Ramsey - Dier into CM, Meunier goes RB, extra cover in midfield and fresh full backs legs.
75 mins - Mandzukic > Cavani, Extra height in the air from crosses, aim for him in the area as the target man.
80 mins - Banega > Dembele, Fresh creative legs in midfield and look to make an impact to the tempo of our possession to kill off the game/get us back into the game.
posted on 26/11/16
Hull - Weiser, Biglia, Keita, brandt
Captain: Süle
Penalties: Werner (Pohjanpalo)
Free Kicks: Geis
-----------------------------Horn
Klostermann------Stark-------Süle-------Henrichs
-------------------Geis-----------Dahoud
-----Óliver---------------Schöpf--------------Gnabry
----------------------------Werner
Subs: Karius, Wimmer, Goretzka, Kampl, Volland, Vietto, Pohjanpalo
Our defensive unit consists of Niklas Stark and Niklas Süle paired up at centre-back, Lukas Klostermann 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 dead ball specialist, so do watch out for his renowned pin-point accuracy.
The attacking unit consists of Óliver Torres, Alessandro Schöpf and Serge Gnabry 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.
Klostermann 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 Oliver Torres and Serge Gnabry who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Alessandro Schöpf 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. Schöpf 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 Oliver, Gnabry or Werner in via fast passing combinations.
Very much like his comrades (Óliver Torres, Schöpf & Gnabry), Timo Werner is blessed with 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 70 Mins: Goretzka on for Dahoud
Goretzka has a massive engine on him and will bring a fresh intensity in terms of his pressing game. The midfield is where this game may be won or lost, and we do not intend on losing this battle.
Sub 80 Mins: Pohjanpalo on for Werner
Pohjanpalo is gaining a reputation as a super sub so with 10 mins to go, and if we badly need a goal then he may be our go-to-man.
posted on 26/11/16
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
5. Zabaleta — 3. Bailly — 4. Benatia — 6. Sandro
—————— 34. Coquelin —— 18. Kovavic
10. Robben ————— 17. de Bruyne ————— 11. Reus
————————————— 9. Higuain
SUBS: 31. Begovic, 12. Smalling, 16. De Rossi, 42. Yaya Toure, 23. Eriksen, 8. Coutinho, 37. Son
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 Coquelin coming into the side bringing his energy with him, helping to dominate the middle of the park with Kovacic against Brum's strong midfield. 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 Coquelin and Kovacic will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. Coq and Kovacic 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 Coq and Kovacic 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. Kovacic 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 Robben and Reus 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, Robben and KDB to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on Yaya 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 Coq. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Kovacic will drop back to DM to control the game while KDB and Coutinho 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 Kovacic in the middle and Robben on the right Reus on the left. Son and Higgers up front.
posted on 26/11/16
Man City
---------------------- Butland ----------------------
------------ S. de Vrij ------ Howedes ------------
Cuadrado --------- Wanyama ---------- J.Hector
---------------- Witsel ------ Gomes ---------------
-------- Embolo ----- Icardi ----- Kelechi --------
Batalla, Savic, E.Can, Mirallas, Tadic, Sansone, Piszczek
We have nothing to lose but a Derby as we are out of the competition already, we go in to attack Utd and get right in there faces, we will play a high line and hopefully get into them and force them back
Our CBs will stay focussed on the striker, de Vrij as the quicker of the two will pick him up in open play, Howedes will pick him up at set pieces, they will work this out between them, as one is picking up the other will be spare to help out/double up or watch for others coming through.
Now the three in front will watch there AMs mano o mano, they press them from the off, get stuck right into them, they wont like it. This will be a typical derby and a hard game so we are prepared. So picked three players in these positions that are not afraid to get stuck in, they don't have too attack, I mean they can move up to half way when they have the ball but look to lay the ball off to the attacker.
Witsel and Gomes in the middle are both ball players who again are not scared to go in hard on the opposition, they will get the ball from deep and look to break forward and play the front three into goal scoring positions, play possession football, even if they have to play it back to start again then so be it.
We have an exciting front three, no fcking about today we want to win this match, all three will be a pain as they look to move around up top, play on the last foot which will stop there defence pushing forward, they wont be able to pick any of them up due to there movement, but once the ball is played into them they will be right on it looking to get in on goal. No need to defend just stop there defenders going forward by making them fearful of a quick counter by us when we play 3 up front.
Captain - Howedes
Pens - Kelechi
Free Kicks - Gomes
Corners - Embolo/Sansone
Subs -
60 Mins - Emre Can for Witsel - fresh legs
70 Mins - Sansone for Embolo
80 Mins -
Losing - Tadic for Hector play as a winger
Winning - Savic for Kelechi go into a back 3
Drawing - Piszczek for Cuadrado
posted on 26/11/16
--------------------Lloris
Clyne---Manolas----Tah----Bertrand
----------------Henderson
----------Verratti--------Herrera
Dembele-------------------------Lemar
-------------------Kane
Subs
Ward, Bartra, Juanfran, Tolisso, Lallana, Bernadeschi, Sturridge
Lloris 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 the front 5 to get those quick counters started.
Manolas 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 always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possesion 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 when 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 Kane, 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 Kane 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.
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 - Verratti 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 Kane 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, Dembele and Lemar flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Henderson 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. Herrera takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt and occasionally providing the short option to try and draw 2 defenders out of the box.
Free Kicks - Lemar takes Direct FK's
For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners
Penalties - Kane is the designated taker.
Subs
If Winning
70 mins - Lallana for Dembele - 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 - Bernadeschi for Lemar and Tolisso for Verratti - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Lallana and Juanfran for Henderson and Clyne - Verratti drops deeper. Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
70 Mins - Sturridge, Bartra and Lallana for Bertrand, Henderson and Clyne - 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.
posted on 26/11/16
Stoke City v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Injuries: Vrsaljko, Mata, Giroud
Ter Stegen
De Marcos - Ginter - Rudiger - Monreal
Cazorla - Schneiderlin
Walcott - Rooney - Chamberlain
Lukaku
Subs: Heaton, Williams, Gustavo, Castro, Deulofeu, Asensio, Slimani
-----------------
Very tough game today against Stoke, going with the plan of dominating the midfield we aim to give ourselves the best possible chance of success today.
Going full strength today, taking no chances as Stoke are a very good side and we want to make sure we advance in this cup. Ter Stegen in goal, De Marcos, Ginter, Rudiger and Monreal in defence, Cazorla and Schneiderlin in midfield, Walcott, Rooney and Oxlade-Chamberlain behind Lukaku upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting through today. Stoke have some class players in their side although we have some class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front four with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a duo who can dictate the game in Cazorla and Schneiderlin, with Rooney ahead of them, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Walcott at RW and Chamberlain at LW both able to use their pace and get at the Stoke defence with De Marcos and Monreal overlapping. Lukaku upfront to give us a physical presence and somebody who is able to hold up possession as well as create chances for himself and his teammates.
Ter Stegen - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Lukaku.
Ginter/Rudiger - Rudiger to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Ginter to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their second striker/AM making runs from midfield. If they play two strikers pick up a man each and leave Schneiderlin to deal with the AM. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
De Marcos/Monreal - Both of you to force the Stoke wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Walcott/Chamberlain as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Lukaku and link with Cazorla/Schneiderlin/Rooney. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Cazorla/Schneiderlin - Cazorla playing the box to box role, assist Schneiderlin in dealing with the Stoke attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Schneiderlin stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Schneiderlin to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Cazorla to burst forward to join the front four on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others.
Walcott/Chamberlain - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Stoke fullbacks and get crosses in, but both of you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Lukaku with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Cazorla/Schneiderlin/Rooney, and capitalise on the space Lukaku's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.
Rooney - Roony to burst forward to join the front three as our AM, look to receive the ball and run at the Stoke defence, bring the ball to create space for others and look for the runs of Walcott/Chamberlain/Lukaku. Shoot if you get into position, also force the Stoke defenders to foul you when you're attacking as we can be lethal from setpieces. Link with Lukaku regularly. Able to drop into midfield with Cazorla/Schneiderlin when under pressure and make a 4-5-1. Get behind Lukaku on occasion.
Lukaku - you will be expected to occupy the Stoke centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Rooney on occasion.
------------------
Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Rooney and Lukaku off, Gustavo and Slimani on. Switch to 4-5-1, Gustavo alongside Cazorla and Schneiderlin in midfield, Walcott at RM and Chamberlain LM. Slimani like for like upfront. Absorb pressure and hit on the break.
If drawing: Lukaku off, Slimani on. Same system but fresh legs upfront. De Marcos and Monreal push forward to overlap the wingers more often and push for the winner.
If losing: Schneiderlin and De Marcos off, Asensio and Slimani on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, back three of Ginter, Rudiger and Monreal, Cazorla the playmaker, Walcott, Rooney, Asensio and Chamberlain behind a front two of Slimani and Lukaku. Push for goals.
posted on 26/11/16
Balanced 4-3-3
Key to our game plan today, is quick passing moves in the midfield and using our pace out wide.
We have fantastic pace down the wings, with Ibra providing a target up top, and someone to play off going forward. The central midfield trio are full of energy and give us a solid midfield in front of the defence.
Javi is the holding player today, Vidal box to box and Brozo the more attacking of the trio. Going forward we vary our attacks. The majority of the time, we look for quick fluid passing movements but we will be direct now and then.
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.
In the middle of the park, the midfield trio look to keep the ball on the deck passing in triangles, triangles that are directed out wide as gaps appear in the opposition formation, we look to shift the ball wider as we advance into the opposition half. This will be key to our attacks, as we look to overload one side of the play.
Drag their players out of position, and getting Vidal and Brozo on the ball to create the chances. Using the pace of our wide men, and the link up play of Ibra to cut through Villa. After Villa attacks, we will also try the odd long ball, either direct to Ibra or over the top for the pace of our wingers to run on to.
We defend in a rigid defensive unit behind the ball, the two closest players pressing the balls, the others getting back and pressing the space so that they have no options to break.
-------------- Schmeichel
Danilo - S.Ramos – Vallejo - Kurzawa
----------- Javi.M – A.Vidal
---------------- Brozovic
L.Sane ------------------------ A.Correa
------------- Ibrahimovic
Subs. Handanovic, Otamendi, Kroos, James.R, D.Silva, Hazard, 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.
As Villa 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 who presses the space in front of our cbs, picking up their CAM.
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. Brozo presses their deep playmaker/cm, while Vidal presses the space in front of Javi.
The winger opposite to the play comes narrow, slightly ahead of the midfield, in a position to break, and stop them going back to their dm to switch the play. Narrowing the play to the side Villa 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 our wingers, get them attacking their fbs, and get balls into Ibra. Or direct to Ibra.
In possession, the defence push up playing a reasonably high line as all are comfortable in possession and have great pace. The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game.
Javi and Vidal picking the passes to start the attacks. They take turns to look for space in between the defence and midfield. They both have the ability to link with our front three and be a threat in and around their box.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Vidal, Brozo 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.
Captain: Ramos
Subs.
After 65 mins bring on Silva for Brozovic.
After 70 mins bring on Hazard and Costa for Correa and Ibra.
posted on 26/11/16
------------------------ Navas ------------------
Carvajal ---- Hummels ---- Laporte ----- Digne
-------------------- Fernandinho ------------------
Coman -------- Khedira -- Gundogan ----- Costa
------------------------ Morata
Subs: Neuer, Varane, Guerreiro, Carrick, Payet, Moura, Lewandowski
Looking to close out the group and stay in top spot, strong side picked looking to play possession based with plenty of width. Arsenal need to win so will look to come at us, we stay patient, spray the ball at will and look for space in between the lines and in the final third.
We should look to play at a high tempo, creating as many lines as possible, nothing risky or needlessly losing possession however, allow the opposition to come at us and pick them off. Movement is essential, front 3 should always look to roam and pick up pockets of space, late runs into the box from our mf duo with Fernandinho providing the cover behind them.
Emphasis will be on dominating 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. Ball retention is also vitally important so if there is no easy opening, pass the ball about and create one in time.
Deep defensive line looking to minimize the threat they pose with the pace of their attackers. Fernandinho sits in as cover and is the link between defence and attack, Carvajal/Digne take it in turns to bomb forward with the other sitting back.
Navas 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.
We need to be highly structured at all times and work as a unit. When defending we stay compact in a 4-1-4-1, two banks of four with a rigid 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.
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 into 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, have a right go at their backline and fullbacks, penetrate and create holes and always on the run, never standing still.
Wingers are key today 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 forwards 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 to an attacker in space, 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.
Morata 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, press front the front.
Subs:
65th minute - If winning - (4-1-4-1 )
Moura > Costa
Carrick > Khedira
Stay compact and rigid, hit them on the break.
70th minute – if draw - (4-5-1)
Lewandowski > Morata
Payet > Coman (Costa RW, Payet LW)
Guerreiro > Digne
Dominate, link with fluidity and probe for a winner.
70th minute - If losing (4-4-2)
Lewandowski > Gundogan
Moura > Coman
Payet > Costa
4-4-2, Lewandowski joins Morata up front, Payet and Moura on the wings with support from FB's, we go all out looking to get back in the game.
C – Hummels
FK’s – Gundogan
Corners – Gundogan
Pens - Morata
posted on 29/11/16
Comment deleted by Article Creator
posted on 30/11/16
----------------------- DeGea -----------------------
P.Lahm ---- Boateng ----- Bonucci ---- Ricardo
--------- Modric --- Busquets --- Pogba ---------
Sanchez ------------ Aguero ------------ Neymar
Lafont, Stones, Bender, Alli, Benteke, Gabigol, Dybala
In goal De Gea, a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, leads by example from the back, shouting instructions to hos defenders. Out quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.
Boateng alongside Bonucci again at CB, on this occassion Bonucci will man mark the CF, we must still be wary of whoever it is. Bonucci is quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, will keep the CF away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Boateng alongside is fantastic v big men and 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, will help out Bonucci if needed.
Ricardo and Lahm at fullback, when we attack one goes at a time the other sits back. When they attack I want them bombing down the wing over lapping the winger to allow them to cut inside, quick passing between the two to get them passed the opposition fullback, which will see the fullback drive towards the bye line to get a quick cross in. If its not a cross then look for the winger inside to play a quick pass back to them so they can drive into the box. Defending both will have to be vigilant and always mindful of the tricks the opposite winger can do. Be onto them quickly not allowing them the time to get going, push them out wide and stop them becoming a threat.
We go with a midfield 3 of Modric, Busquets and Pogba, three absolute workhorses, with fantastic defensive attributes as well as being good on the attack, when we defend they will work together to shut there midfield going man for man, Busquets will pick up the most advanced midfielder, the second most advanced will be picked up by one of the other two depending what side he goes to thus allowing our 3rd player to be free to close down the DM if he decideds to roam , they will close down everything very quickly and not allow there players any time on the ball whatsoever, once the ball is won, then Modric/Pogba will drive forward leaving Busquets to sit in and depending on which fullback is attacking Modric/Pogba will cover for the marauding fullbacks who will drive on into support the front three, they all have impressive workrate so if the ball is lost they track back and provide a formidible barrier for them to try and break down. they all have a great eye for a pass so look to control things and pass about with ease looking for the break, especially Modric who will control things in the centre, alot will go through him so others will make sure they are ready for a pass to feet from him, they can shoot from a variety of angles. look out for Neymar and Sanchez coming inside and put some nice crisp through balls into them and Aguero and the wingers cutting in. Quick passing from the three as to not be shut down by the opposition midfielders.
Sanchez and Neymar both quick with nimble feet which more often than not takes them passed the fullback, wether they knock it passed them and drive on or simple a quick turn, and there away. Will have fullbacks supporting them so this allows them to pass and cut inside where both are very useful. Give and go, wait for the return and go for goal, or look to drive into the box in support of Aguero. Neymar focusses more on the tricks and twists to see him passed, whereas Sanchez likes to make the pass that gives him time to look for space for him to drive into and use the CMs and wait for the return. Also alot of the time Ricardo/Lahm will be up so they will be troublesome for the fullbacks. . When defending look to get back and stop there defenders becoming a threat. Like said they support the defenders when they have the ball and the defenders support them when we attack.
Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away this side who will be solid at the back. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Our forwards must hit them with pace and look to run them ragged with there movement. Aguero is surprisingly good in the air and two good feet, can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front three will be a threat today we must go for it. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Neymar and Sanchez running into support. With others (Modric/Pogba/FB's)making dangerous runs into the area also
A very difficult game but we have a good side defensively and going forward, quick passing, one twos and drive into positions to receive a return ball, we really must go fr it, at the same time nothing risky.
Captain - Lahm
Penalties - Neymar
Free kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Losing
70 Mins - Dybala > Pogba 442
80 Mins - Benteke for Aguero look to bully tiring cbs & Alli on for Ricardo 3412
Winning -
70 Mins - Bender > Modric to shore it up a bit
80 Mins - Benteke > Aguero to hold things up if needed and bully Cbs
Drawing -
70 Mins - Gabigol > Sanchez, Dybala > Pogba sit just off Aguero
80 Mins - Benteke for Aguero
posted on 1/12/16
Arsenal away at Pompey
Injuries: Walcott – Gaya – Romagnoli – Garay
……………………………….Buffon…………………………
……………..Rugani…..Manolas……Chiellini………..
Hysaj…………Marchisio………….Herrera………..De Sciglio
…………………………………Fabregas……………………………
………………………..Bacca……….Ronaldo…………………..
Subs: Hart, Dier, Valero, Gagliardini, Berardi, Anderson, Michy B
Capt – Buffon
Corners – Fabregas
Free-kicks (indirect) Cesc
Free-licks (direct) Ronaldo
Pens – Ronaldo
Another week and another game against Pompey – we won but ultimately drew against them in the cup last weekend and now we head down to Fratton Park….Pompey much like ourselves are better than the league table suggests – so even though we’re above them in the table and in the form table we can’t take this game lightly.
Injuries have knackered our defence but we’ve managed to cobble a half decent side together – back to the tried and tested 3-5-2 today, it’s not at the stage of the season where this games a must win but it’s certainly a must not lose game if we retain any hopes of European football next season.
We’ve gone without a holding midfielder purely because with 3 CB’s we can afford to be more pro-active in midfield we want to get a hold of the ball and play the game on the ground nice slick passing – The ball is always quicker than the man, so let the ball do the work…as we go for our own brand of Tiki-Talia (Spanish ball retention meet Italian Catenaccio) – we’re gonna be a little re-active defensively when they get it…no massive heavy press until they get within 30 yards of our goal – then steal the ball and break – as the great Inter coach Herrera once said the ideal is to get into the opponents box in no more than 3 passes – I know this paragraph contradicts itself BUT it doesn’t really – when we have controlled possession and they have men back we use it cleverly, move the ball and Pompeys players about before hitting fast – when we counter we go fast and direct – 3 touches from back to front no way Pompey’s players can cover 100 metres quicker than the ball.
It is important to stress that there is nothing inherently defensive about three-at-the-back; formations, after all, are neutral, and it is their application that defines the overall approach. Indeed, two sides can employ the same formation in very different ways: Antonio Conte’s Juventus pressed high and dominated possession when using a 3-5-2, while Walter Mazzarri’s Inter preferred to sit deep before getting the ball forward quickly in transition.
Nevertheless, the 3-5-2 invariably satisfies the Italian desire for security that catenaccio also aimed to assuage. Against a 4-4-2, it offers a spare man in both defence and midfield, the former providing cover as the other two defenders pick up the opposition striker, the latter boosting a team’s chances of controlling the ball. This extra midfielder is lost against a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, but since the 3-5-2 then benefits from a 3 v 1 at the back, one of the centre backs can step forward into midfield when in possession, a role expertly performed by Leonardo Bonucci at Juventus.
Gigi Buffon – The man, The myth, The legend – comes in for his Arsenal debut still one of the very best in the business, commands the respect of the team and will lead by example, has spent pretty much is whole career behind a back-three so makes sense for him to come in and play his natural game.
The Defence:
We presume Pompey will go one up top which suits us just fine – if it’s 2 then that’s cool as well – such is the advantage of the 3 at the back – Manolas and Rugani are pretty quick so we go with a high defensive line today to compact the pitch – makes our long direct counter attacking game more potent but also means we can play keep ball – if it’s one up top then Manolas is the man-marker – big strong and very quick whether its Lewa or Morata he faces he has the skill-set – if they both play then Rugani goes spare, Chiellini and Manolas take one each (Chiellini/Lewa and Manolas/Morata)
The Midfield:
Hysaj and De Sciglio will provide the width – more wingers than wing-backs – will obvs need to be aware defensively BUT 2 at the back gives enough security through the middle that we can concede some width – they aint scoring from out there so the balls gotta come into the box and we three 6-footers ready to deal with it……Marchisio and Herrera both have a great worth ethic and are comfortable with ball to feet – I think their link up play with Cesc who’s playing as the #10 should be able to create considerable chances for our front-men to exploit – No proper ball winner in there but they can all put their foot in well enough.
The Attack:
Bacca is your stereotypical goal-scoring #9 – he won’t be massively involved in the build up play but we don’t need him to, I want him on the shoulder of the last defender only coming back deep enough to stay onside – play on his toes ready to spin and sprint into space as our defence send one over the top.
Ronaldo – given a free role today – has the physical attributes to be a great striker, plus the speed and skill to tear it up out-wide – will drift along the front line, linking play and getting on the end of balls into the box – he does well we do well.
Subs 65 mins
Dier > Herrera
Berardi > Bacca
Felipe > Fabregas
posted on 1/12/16
Attacking 4-3-3
Key to our game plan today, is quick passing moves in the midfield and using our pace out wide.
We have fantastic pace down the wings, with Costa providing energy, power and someone to play off and run in behind. The central midfield trio are full of energy and give us a solid midfield in front of the defence.
Javi is the holding player today, Vidal box to box and Kroos the more attacking of the trio. Going forward we vary our attacks. The majority of the time, we look for quick fluid passing movements but we will be direct now and then.
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.
In the middle of the park, the midfield trio look to keep the ball on the deck passing in triangles, triangles that are directed out wide as gaps appear in the opposition formation, we look to shift the ball wider as we advance into the opposition half. This will be key to our attacks, as we look to overload one side of the play.
Drag their players out of position, and getting Vidal and Kroos on the ball to create the chances. Using the pace of our wide men. After City attacks, we will also try the odd long ball, either direct to Costa or over the top for the pace of our forwards to run on to.
We defend in a rigid defensive unit behind the ball, the two closest players pressing the balls, the others getting back and pressing the space so that they have no options to break.
--------------- Handanovic
Danilo - S.Ramos – Otamendi - Kurzawa
----------- Javi.M – A.Vidal
---------------- T.Kroos
A.Correa ------------------------ Hazard
---------------- D.Costa
Subs. Schmeichel, Barzagli, Brozovic, Sane, Otavio, Benzema
Key to our attack is quick attacking play. Varying our play and how we get the ball to our wingers/Costa quickly. Both full backs bomb forward in attack, with Javi sitting to cover.
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 Hazard and Benzema 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.
As City 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 who presses the space in front of our cbs, picking up their CAM.
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. Kroos presses their deep playmaker/cm, while Vidal presses the space in front of Javi.
The winger opposite to the play comes narrow, slightly ahead of the midfield, in a position to break, and stop them going back to their dm to switch the play. Narrowing the play to the side City 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 our wingers, get them attacking their fbs, and get balls into Costa.
In possession, the defence push up playing a reasonably high line as all are comfortable in possession and have great pace. The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game.
Javi and Vidal picking the passes to start the attacks. They take turns to look for space in between the defence and midfield. They both have the ability to link with our front three and be a threat in and around their box.
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.
Costa has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals.
Captain: Ramos
Subs.
If winning after 65 mins bring on Sane for Correa.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Benzema for Costa.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Brozovic for Kroos.
If drawing after 65 mins bring on Benzema for Correa. Costa supports Benzema. More attacking.
If drawing after 72 mins bring on Brozovic for Javi.
If drawing after 85 mins bring on Sane for Danilo. 3-5-2.
If losing after 55 mins bring on Benzema for Correa. 3-4-1-2. Javi to cb. Fbs to wb. Hazard behind.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Sane and Brozovic for Kurzawa and Danilo.
posted on 2/12/16
Comment deleted by Article Creator
posted on 2/12/16
-------------------- Lodygin --------------------
M.Ginter --- Zouma --- Lovren --- J.Hector
------------------- Wanyama -------------------
--------------- Rabiot --- Gomes --------------
Oxlade --------------------------------- Perotti
--------------------- Icardi ----------------------
Butland, Coleman, Goretzka, J.Correa, Thorgan, Kelechi, Slimani
A very tough game v Leicester sbut we have nothing to lose so go in with no fear
Lodygin in goal is a big powerful goalkeeper, keeps his back four right and positions himself very well and distribution of the ball is also very good, Always makes himself big as he stands tall as forwards come onto him, close them down early and reduce there shooting angles. Punches clear when he cant catch a high ball.
A strong back 4, Ginter in for Coleman for his defensive attributes, solid at fullback and will look to take no prisoners, if its wingers or wingbacks look to push them back and away from the danger area, with good old fashioned in yer face aggressive (but fair) play, make them wary of taking you on, attack when possible but one at a time and support the wingers. Zouma will man mark the striker, he is quick and powerful so wont be bullied, sometimes he is a tad rash so Lovren will lead him through the game together they will look to keep the striker quiet and way out the game, play the passes from deep and don't travel too far when in possession. Zouma up for set pieces.
Wanyama is the destroyer in front, nothing fancy about his game, he protects the back four leaving Rabiot and Gomes to play ball. He doesn't fck about, in hard for the ball win it, pass it, simple stuff reall, no more no less. Get intae them
Rabiot and Gomes when defending will sit either side and create a wall for Leicester to try and break down it will be hard for them but our boys will work there socks off in making sure they do not get a sniff as they can be quite deadly. When we have it look to pass it round Leicester, out to the wings etc , we too have a deadly striker who just needs a glimpse of goal to have a go so lets play the ball in triangles, quick football to get the ball to him. Also time the late runs into the box to support Icardi and get onto crosses from wide.
Oxlade is quick and direct, Perotti will take his man on pass it around and use his skill to beat them, contrasting styles which is good as they will interchange every so often when I say so which will confuse there defenders, along with Icardi these three will be troublesome for Leicesters back line as its all about movement and speed and taking defenders away and opening up gaps for others like Rabiot and Gomes to drive into. Icardi will if he cant fgo for goal look to hold it up for these two coming in and lay it off for them to have a go. Always running about looking to get into space to receive the ball, a perfect No.9
When we defend we defend from the front which means our wingers track back and Icardi will drop if a CB moves forward. Possession football will be hard today as they are obvs a good team but we look at trying to have more positives than negatives in this game, pass it about, don't be frightened to take them on, if first you don't succeed try, try again. I wont shout!
Captain - Lovren
Pens - Icardi
Free Kicks - Perotti
Corners - Perotti
Subs
Losing
70 Mins - Kelechi for Rabiot 442, Coleman for Ginter he is a more attack minded RB
80 Mins - Coleman to RM and Slimani for Oxlade 343
Winning -
70 Mins - |Goretzka for Rabiot
80 Mins - Coleman for Oxlade, Kelechi for Icardi
Drawing - Joaquin Correa for Oxlade, Kelechi for Icardi, Thorgan for Rabiot 4231
posted on 2/12/16
Karius, Süle, Óliver, Forsberg
Captain: Geis
Penalties: Werner (Pohjanpalo)
Free Kicks: Geis
-----------------------Horn
Weiser-------Stark-------Kempf-----Henrichs
--------------Geis-----------Dahoud
Mor---------------Schöpf-------------Gnabry
--------------------Werner
Subs: Hennessey, Klostermann, Biglia, Keïta, Kampl, Gerhardt, Pohjanpalo
Our defensive unit consists of Niklas Stark and Marc-Oliver Kempf 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 dead ball specialist, so do watch out for his renowned pin-point accuracy.
The attacking unit consists of Emre Mor, Alessandro Schöpf and Serge Gnabry 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 Emre Mor and Serge Gnabry who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Alessandro Schöpf 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. Schöpf 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 Mor, Gnabry or Werner in via fast passing combinations.
Very much like his comrades (Mor, Schöpf & Gnabry), Timo Werner is blessed with 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 70 Mins: Keïta on for Dahoud
Keïta has a massive engine on him and will bring a fresh intensity in terms of his pressing game. The midfield is where this game may be won or lost, and we do not intend on losing this battle.
Sub 80 Mins: Pohjanpalo on for Werner
Pohjanpalo is gaining a reputation as a super sub so with 10 mins to go, and if we badly need a goal then he may be our go-to-man.
posted on 2/12/16
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
5. Zabaleta — 3. Bailly — 4. Benatia — 6. Sandro
—————— 29. Xhaka —— 18. Kovavic
10. Robben ————— 42. Yaya Toure ————— 11. Reus
————————————— 9. Higuain
SUBS: 31. Begovic, 12. Smalling, 38. Barry, 25. Strootman, 23. Eriksen, 8. Coutinho, 21. Gameiro
Captain: Marco Reus
Corners: Marco Reus
Crossing free-kicks: Marco Reus
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 Yaya coming into the side bringing his physicality with him, helping to dominate the middle of the park against a strong midfield as we can drop into a 433 with Yaya who can also provide a goal threat. 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 Xhaka and Kovacic will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. Xhaka and Kovacic 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. Yaya 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 Xhaka and Kovacic 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. Kovacic 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, Yaya 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 Robben and Reus 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, Robben and Yaya to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on Strootman for Yaya. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.
If d rawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Coutinho for Yaya. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Xhaka will drop back to DM to control the game while Kovacic and Coutinho 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 Gameiro for Kovacic. Attacking 4-4-2 with Xhaka and Coutinho in the middle and Robben on the right Reus on the left. Gameiro and Higgers up front.
posted on 2/12/16
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
5. Zabaleta — 3. Bailly — 4. Benatia — 6. Sandro
—————— 29. Xhaka —— 18. Kovavic
10. Robben ————— 42. Yaya Toure ————— 11. Reus
————————————— 9. Higuain
SUBS: 31. Begovic, 12. Smalling, 38. Barry, 25. Strootman, 23. Eriksen, 8. Coutinho, 21. Gameiro
Captain: Marco Reus
Corners: Marco Reus
Crossing free-kicks: Marco Reus
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 Yaya coming into the side bringing his physicality with him, helping to dominate the middle of the park against a strong midfield as we can drop into a 433 with Yaya who can also provide a goal threat. 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 Xhaka and Kovacic will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. Xhaka and Kovacic 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. Yaya 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 Xhaka and Kovacic 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. Kovacic 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, Yaya 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 Robben and Reus 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, Robben and Yaya to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on Strootman for Yaya. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.
If d rawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Coutinho for Yaya. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Xhaka will drop back to DM to control the game while Kovacic and Coutinho 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 Gameiro for Kovacic. Attacking 4-4-2 with Xhaka and Coutinho in the middle and Robben on the right Reus on the left. Gameiro and Higgers up front.
posted on 2/12/16
---------------------Lloris
Rudiger----Pepe----Godin----Bertrand
------Krychowiak------Nainggolan
Mane--------------Ozil------------Firmino
-------------------Suarez
Subs
Patricio, Matip, Wendell, Pjanic, Di Maria, Salah, 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 the front 5 to get those quick counters 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 always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possesion 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 when 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 2 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with Ozil 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 behind 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 - Ozil 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, Firmino and Suarez work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Mane flits 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 go for the odd thundercunt 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 - Pjanic for Ozil - 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 Di Maria for Firmino - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Pjanic for Radja - Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
70 Mins - Sturridge, Matip and Di Maria for Bertrand, Krychowiak and Juanfran - switch to a 3-4-3 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and we go all out attacking for a way to get back into the game.
posted on 3/12/16
------------------Forster-----------------
Cedric---van Dijk---Kompany---Blind
-------------Oscar-----Matic-------------
Willian----------Ziyech-----------Turan
-----------------Dembele-----------------
Pickford, Denayer, Lemina, Mahrez, Benassi, Haddadi, Giroud
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.
Cedric and Blind are allowed to attack. When the fullbacks attack I want them up supporting our wingers getting beyond the wide forwards to give us some width and get to the bye line, so Turan and Willian can cut in if they wish and support Dembele. Put in crosses for him to attack. When defending the lines, push there wingers out wide and stay on feet, dont dive in, this will force the player back or into a space they cant get out of.
With two attacking fullbacks with freedom we are going to look and play a compact midfield to reduce the time they have on the ball. Oscar and Matic will be sitting in with either making the occassional run forward, one of them must sit in at all times. Oscar more than Matic will be making these runs. I want them to break their attack up very quickly and get the ball forward or out to our fullbacks. Matic takes up the main role of marking there attacking midfielder. He is a very in your face type character so there midfielders wont have much time on the ball.
Turan and Willian will play with freedom to attack and support Ziyech and Dembele,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, we may seem like it is all about attack with the fullbacks attacking but when they attack Turan and Willian will push wide to stop there fullbacks if needed and support Cedirc and Blind. 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.
Ziyech will be the link that will get the ball from midfield to attack, his passing is sublime and he has bursts of energy that sees him passed players. 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.
Dembele 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 Ziyech who will be up in support a lot, always looking to go for goal and two good feet, with support from our fullbacks, Willian and Turan 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, we have to go 110% for 90 minutes and show we are not just here to make up the numbers!
Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Dembel
Free Kicks - Turan
Corners - Oscar
Substitutes
If we are losing Giroud will come on for Ziyech and Mahrez for Willian and we will play 442 on 70 minutes, Haddadi for Cedric on 80 minutes and we play 343
if we are drawing then Giroud and Mahrez for Dembele and Willian on 70 minutes and Benassi for Ziyech on 80 minutes and he will swap with Oscar
If we are winning then Benassi for Ziych on 70 minutes going into midfield 3 and Goroud for Dembele. and on 80 minutes Denayer for Oscar and Blind goes into midfield and Denayer to LB
posted on 3/12/16
-----------------------------------------Cech--------------------------------
Lichtsteiner-----------N Ake--------Verthonghen-----------Rose
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------Hamsik----------Carvalho------------------------------------
Shaqiri--------------------------------------------------------------------------Nolito
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------Vardy------------------Origi-----------------
Subs - Zieler, Shawcross, Sissoko, Young, Mario, Mertens, Rashford
CAPTAIN - CECH
CK'S - NOLITO
FK'S - SHAQIRI
PENALTIES - VARDY
Up against LTSD this week. Watch out for the pace of Aubameyang.
This 4222 formation is solid in defence but also very attacking with 2 strikers up front and 2 wingers.
Defence
I got a world class keeper in goal so he will be hard to beat. The defence is well balanced. Ake and Verthonghen are an excellent partnership and bring experience at the back. Vert 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.
Centre Mids
Hamsik + Carvalho
Hamsik will play a b2b role, while Carvalho will only focus on covering for our players when they are out of position When Hamsik attacks, Carvalho stays back to defend. Close the oppo AM down and don't let the other team have any time on the ball in the centre of midfield. Hamsik has the ability to pick out a pass while Carvalho is an engine which can run all day long. They complement each other perfectly.
Wingers
Shaqiri + Nolito
Nolito is a 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 both are deadly on them. Shaqiri is also a tricky pacy winger who will look to cut in on to his stronger left foot. Confuse the oppo left back by twisting and turning and get some decent crosses in. I want you both to help track back and help the full backs when they are in our half of the pitch.
Strike
Vardy + Origi
I want you both 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. With two fast pacy strikers up front, we're bound to create chances on the counter. Origi will be the muscle in strike. He brings pace AND strenght which is a deadly combo.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Rashford for Origi. Also bring on Young for Nolito and Mertens for Carvalho. Play a high line and try and get a goal.
Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take off Vardy and put on Shawcross in CB and play 5atb ultra defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives. Janssen for Origi aswell.
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Origi off for Rashford
Carvalho off for Sissoko
Nolito off for Young
posted on 3/12/16
—————————Courtois
———Alderweireld—-Luiz—-Koulibaly
Azpilicueta———Rakitic—Koke———Marcelo
——————Carrasco———Griezmann
————————Aubameyang
Subs: Scuffet, Terry, Danilo, Jorginho, Lamela, I.Williams, Hernandez
Captain: David Luiz
Free Kicks: David Luiz/Ivan Rakitic
Corners: Ivan Rakitic/Koke
Penalties: Pierre Emerik Aubameyang
Up against a Birmingham side who like to play out from the back, get on the front foot and look to get Jamie Vardy in the channels, we think this is a dangerous game to play against us. We will look to start the game with a high press, using the energy in our front 3 to put their CB’s leaving our CMs to get on theres, our WBs to dominate the flanks and our CBs to boss two average forwards. If that fails, we simply drop deeper, negate the pace of Vardy in the channels and play in the gaps they leave behind.
Today we defend as an 11 in that we will always be compact no matter where the play is, so if we are in their half the defence is pushed up and if we are in our half the forwards are back helping out in that they’ll be between the opposition CMs and CBs so that off the ball they help us defend by pressing them from behind, Carrasco with more responsibility so Griezmann can focus on getting close to Aubameyang. With the 3 CBs and line of 4 that are solid defensively it means that other than this pressing, the forwards can focus on getting forward and hurting the Birmingham defence, looking to transition quickly to 3 v 3’s(Birmingham will push a FB forward in attacks). As previously stated we stay as a group to make it compact, with Koke and Rakitic looking to use this to their advantage, it allows them to work in tandem to slow Birmingham’s attacks down, squeezing the space the man on the ball wants to use, which will allow the energetic WBs and the two wide CBs, as well as Carrasco to do the pressing, these four working constantly, the WBs narrowing in to our compact unit to get a foot in and one forward dropping slightly deeper than the other two, with Alderweireld/Koulibaly able to step out of the back line and use their excellent aggressive form of defending to break down attacks before they can get into our third, knowing that we will always have Luiz’s power and pace behind them to cover as well as two WBs who can drop in if needed, using their pace to get back quickly if we make a mistake. This leaves Luiz as a sweeper to deal with the central strikers movement in behind, looking to bully him out of the game, always putting his body in the way. With this system of defending in mind when Birmingham have the ball deeper we will look to press them into going into the centre where we have the numerical advantage, this allows us to squeeze them then quickly transition the ball to wide areas to attack the game where there is more space.
If Birmingham get into wide areas we narrow to that side of the field with the WB and the CB on that side able to come out and defend against FB and winger, leaving two CBs to deal with the striker and the WB on the opposite side to tuck in so we always have that spare defender, although he will be focused on the winger looking to make inside runs. In these positions we can simply make things too compact to break through, Rakitic and Koke closed right in blocking the route out whilst the forward on that side comes back to press and then act as the link man to the two high forwards who are free of defensive duties, close to the play but in positions where they are focusing on making runs when we win it back rather than trying to get a foot in, unless of course the ball goes back towards where they are. If Birmingham force us right back into our third then we stop the pressing and we squeeze space only, this means a back 5 will be erected, Carrasco and Griezmann will drop in closer to the CMs and we will simply shut up shop and wait for the ball back.
Like previously said the team moves up the field as a unit so when we attack the CBs push up too, so we can make it hard for them to break. Alderweireld and Koulibaly will stretch out slightly so that there are no big gaps left by the WBs pushing up, with Rakitic and Koke also there behind our attacks covering our attackers, this should mean that we can break counters up quickly and get back on the attack quickly, especially by getting the ball out to the wide CBs who can play the WBs in or play the forwards into the channels. Rakitic and Koke look to receive the ball from the defenders and transition it on to the attacking players, inviting the WBs to play high up and feed the 3 forwards into the spaces between defenders, taking in turns to make runs forward to join the from 3. The WBs will look to get forward whenever we win the ball, as soon as it goes to the three forwards they are overlapping and stretching the defence out, Azpilicueta looking to get to the byline, Marcelo can get the ball wide and then look to come infield with his trickery or by playing quick passes with the CMs or the attackers, his penetrating runs provide us with something different and we know their wide men won’t track our WBs. That then leaves the front three, with Carrasco excellent at driving forward and squaring up defenders this means he’s the one that picks the ball up and crosses into the attacking third, looking to move around and link up with the WBs and link midfield to attack, also capable of penetrating the box, leaving Griezmann and Aubameyang the freedom to hurt Birmingham’s back line using their speed and trickery to beat a man and make runs in behind, particularly when one drops deeper towards the ball it drags a CB out and leaves space between the FB(who will have to cover the WBs forward movement and the other CB, if either Griezmann or Aubameyang receives the ball in this gap they are away. All 3 of the forwards are comfortable out wide, they’re all comfortable in field or dropping deep to create things and they are all good at making runs in behind, so we have the movement to make holes in their defence. If they press the midfield we look to get the ball to the WBs high up the pitch with one quick ball forward and look to stretch the game out quickly, distorting their attempts to press us.
Subs:
If Winning: Jorginho and Lamela for Rakitic and Carrasco 70’. Danilo for Griezmann 80’, Koke into AM.
If Drawing: Lamela for Azpilicueta 70’, Hernandez for Griezmann 75’, goes up front with Auba, leaving Carrasco to drift around.
If Losing: Hernandez for Luiz 65’, 4-4-2. Lamela and Jorginho for Carrasco and Koke 75’, fresh legs to do the running.
posted on 3/12/16
STOKE CITY v Newcastle
Krul
Fabinho Marquinhos Koscielny Luis
Witsel
Pedro Mkhitaryan Silva Ribery
Ibrahimovic
Substitutes: Jedvaj; Savic; Ponce; Silva; Rode; Welbeck; Perisic
Captain: Koscielny
Penalties: Ibrahimovic
Corners: Ribery
Free Kicks: Ribery
Game Plan:
At home to a solid team with a good defensive structure and good on the counter, we want to use our fluid 4141 line up to dictate the tempo of the game and enjoy the lion's share of the possession. From there, we will be able to stretch out Newcastle's formation and exploit the cracks that appear.
Newcastle's primary threat is their pace on the counter and so we will play with fairly reserved full backs in this game, instead allowing our midfield trio free reign to get forward and attack the back line, assisting our interchangeable forward trio.
We want to attack with a high tempo throughout the game, spreading the ball around at pace so that Newcastle can’t settle and getting play moving forward as quickly as possible.
Pedro and Ribery on the wings will be looking to target the space in between the full backs and the centre backs while Ibrahimovic will be looking to use his significant strength and work rate to cause Newcastle’s centre backs problems. Behind them, Silva will be looking to push up through the centre as our main playmaker while Mkhitaryan will also push forward and provide space with his intelligent runs, leaving Wiesel to hold the centre.
In defence, we want to test how Newcastle’s side does when they are put under significant pressure across the pitch. We don’t want to give them space to play their own game at their own tempo and we don’t want to allow them to control possession.
We want to keep our players as close to theirs throughout the game as possible. We don't want to give them time to relax on the ball and think about where the next pass is going and force them to play with their backs to goal. We want to crowd the pitch, effectively splitting the playing surface in to halves and quadrants, and dictate where they can pass the ball and when.
Ibrahimovic intercepts the space between the CBs so that they can't move the ball along the back four. Our two wingers then press inside and our midfielders press up and stick close to their man so that space is lacking for their centre backs. Along with this, our defensive line presses high so that the midfield becomes further congested (the pace in our back line is more than capable of covering ground in the events of a long ball - hit too long and Krul comes out to mop it up) and the centre back in possession is left with a choice: play it back to the keeper, wherein the play starts again, or attempt a risky ball forward that has a good chance of being intercepted.
If the ball gets out to the full back, we make it a 3-on-1 scenario, we don't want them having an easy time of playing the ball forward. Depending on the wing, that winger will press, Ibrahimovic will come across to cut out passing lanes along the back four and the closest central midfielder will come forward to cut any passes to the midfield. The only option for the full back is backwards. In addition, our entire formation shifts across to plug any gaps in the line and effectively cut off a third of the pitch, making the switch impossible.
If the ball hits the midfield, their attempt will be to get the ball to the forward players are quickly as possible. The first way to stop this is to keep their back to goal, they can’t see the forwards that way. If we are pressing them with their back to goal, we will very rarely get turned (provided the other players close down the passing lanes) and this results usually in a turnover.
The midfielder is in the same dilemma as the defenders here about whether to dribble/pass forward and risk a turnover or pass the ball back and break down the move. The most important part to consider here is that the defenders and midfielders have only a second or two to think this before the ball is taken off them and thus finding the right pass isn’t easy.
If the ball makes it all the way to the front line, somehow, then we drop back deep and defend as a unit, plugging all gaps and not allowing them the space and time to work their way through. At no time do we want them to be in a one-on-one situation in our own half. We must double team them all game so that they can't make use of their technical ability. Even the best players in the world struggle to break through a wall of 10 men and, from here, we can look to spring an instant counter with pace of our own.
Though we will be playing an aggressive pressing game, we don’t want to be aggressive in our tackles. We will not slide in to challenges, rather stand up to our opposition and use our pressing game to force them out of possession without having to make risky challenges.
On the flip side, though, if any of their players pick up a yellow card during the course of play, we want to target their area of the pitch and coax them in to making another foul that will see Newcastle go down to 10 men. No diving, though!
Substitutions:
70 minutes: Welbeck for Pedro - Welbeck will provide pace and a great work ethic to keep Newcastle’s left flank busy late on.
75 minutes: Bernardo Silva for David Silva - Almost a like for like swap, though Bernardo’s fresh legs could prove the difference in the middle.
80 minutes: Rode for Mkhitaryan - Rode will sit next to Wiesel and provide a strong spine that will allow the creative players to push forward and probe for gaps in the tired Newcastle defence late on.
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