Arsenal away at Blues
Injuries:
De Sciglio, Chiellini, Kenedy, Niang
………………………………………..Buffon…………………………….
Hysaj………………….Rugani…………Romagnoli………….Gaya
……………………………Wanyama……Marchisio…………………
Berardi………………………….James………………………….Silva
……………………………………..Higuain……………………………..
Subs: Butland, Barzagli,Dier,Herrera,OX,Welbeck, El Shaarawy
Away at blouse is a pretty tough game, but we’ll take it on face on, we need to get back to winning ways to keep an outside shot at Europe alive
No more tinkering for tinkering sakes by Tino Bambino, a straight forward set-up today which I feel is well balanced a young but “proven” defence, a solid pivot, 3 lovely Am’s and a fantastic goal scorer.
I want us to dominate this game so the players at our disposal are comfortable ball players, we’ll hold the lions share of it, and silence the home fans, take the sting out of the game and control proceedings from the front foot. They’re the home team and will look to come to us utilising home advantage but we’re strong enough through the spine to absorb this.
The Defence:
Bags of pace in this back line so we’ll take a nice high line enabling us to press hard and fast when they have the ball…..a dink over the top we’ll hold our own in the sprint, BUT with the high line we can keep simple passing routes open, and dictate the play. Hysaj and Gaya will look to push forward simultaneously as we look to force Brums own FB’s backwards and isolate Blouse’ wingers. Rugs and Roma played together for the Italy U21’s and have both got into the seniors so it’s a ready made partnership.
The Midfield:
Wanyama comes in as our destroyer, solid as a tank he’ll sit on their AM and close him down at source, Marchisio is given the freedom to play as our box-to-box man getting forward to support the attacks as well as getting a foot in defensively.
The 3 AM’s:
Berardi and Silva are not your traditional wingers, they’ll play as inside forwards but with the freedom to drift and interchange, we want them moving Blues’ full-backs all over the shop making themselves much harder to mark, James comes in as a proper #10
Higuain:
A proper goal scorer, will play off the shoulder of the last man, splitting the CB’s and causing mischief when the ball comes in the box there’s not many I’d rather it drop to than him.
Subs 65 mins
Herrera > Wanyama
OX > Berardi
Welbz > Silva
Hull - Weiser, Biglia, Keita, Werner
Captain: Geis
Penalties: Werner (Driussi)
Free Kicks: Geis
----------------------------Horn
Klostermann---Stark----------Süle------Henrichs
------------------Geis-----------Dahoud
Gnabry----------------Schöpf-------------Forsberg
---------------------------Milik
Subs: Karius, Wimmer, Ascacibar, Gerhardt, Bailey, Óliver, Driussi
Our defensive unit consists of Niklas Stark and Niklas Süle paired up at centre-back, Benjamin Henrichs at left-back and Lukas Klostermann at right-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 Serge Gnabry, Alessandro Schöpf and Emil Forsberg as our band of three attacking midfielders with Arkadiusz Milik 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.
Henrichs and Klostermann 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 Serge Gnabry and Emil Forsberg, 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 Gnabry, Forsberg or Milik in via fast passing combinations.
Milik is predominantly an old-style centre forward, however he does possess the technical qualities and versatility to shine in this game. He’ll be physically imposing and not only will he be a threat in the air, but he can also score via great volleys. We’ll look towards his wonderful finishing and passing ability and he’ll also display good positioning and teamwork, and won’t be afraid to help his team defend.
Sub 70 Mins: Gerhardt 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: Driussi on for Milik
Driussi is an all-round centre forward, and with 10 minutes left to go he’s our man to go to for a late goal that could make all of the difference to our result.
let’s take a punt that it’ll be the other team nah if Horn gets sent off I’ll take off Milik (Driussi) for Karius and become a bit toothless. If any other player gets sent off then we’ll just look to tighten ranks.
sorry penalty taker is Milik not Werner!!
--------------------Patricio
Gaspar-----Pepe------Godin-----Bertrand
----------Casemiro-------Pjanic
Di Maria-------------Ozil-----------Firmino
--------------------Suarez
Subs
Ward, Hummels, Clyne, Nainggolan, Salah, Brandt, Lemar
Patricio 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, Di Maria flits around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Casemiro 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. Pjanic 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 - Radja 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 - Brandt for Firmino and Salah for Di Maria - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Radja for Casemiro - Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
70 Mins - Lemar, Hummels and Radja for Bertrand, Casemiro and Gaspar - 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.
————————————Cech
—————Manolas———N.Ake———B.Davies
Walker—————-Florenzi———Allen—————D.Rose
—————Hamsik—————————Mertens
————————————Fekir
Subs: Zieler, Lichtsteiner, Neny, Moutinho, Joao Mario, Shaqiri, Rashford.
Captain: Petr Cech
Free Kicks: Joe Allen/Dries Mertens
Corners: Marek Hamsik/Joe Allen
Penalties: Dries Mertens
Up against an out of position Arsenall side who will be very strong but its time for a new manager and some less guns ho tactics that with any luck will make us more solid at the back and give us more of a foothold in the midfield to try and get some goals.
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, Hamsik with more responsibility so Mertens can focus on getting close to Fekir. 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 remaining Arsenal defenders, looking to transition quickly before the Arsenal midfield can form a block. As previously stated we stay as a group to make it compact, with Florenzi and Allen looking to use this to their advantage, it allows them to work in tandem to slow Arsenal’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 Hamsik 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 Manolas/Davies 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 Ake 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 Ake as a sweeper to deal with the central striker’s movement in behind, looking to mark him out of the game, always putting his body in the way. With this system of defending in mind when Arsenal have the ball deeper we will look to press them into going wide as we can use our wing backs to good effect when we win the ball back, stretch the game and opening up room for the forwards.
If Arsenal do 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, Florenzi and Allen 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 Arsenal 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, Hamsik and Mertens will drop in closer to the CMs and we will simply shut up shop and wait for the ball back.
Like previously said the teams 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. Manolas and N.Ake will stretch out slightly so that there are no big gaps left by the WBs pushing up, with Florenzi and Allen 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. Allen and Florenzi keep the game ticking looking to use their creativity to transition the ball quickly, with one at a time having licence to join the front 3 and make it a 4. 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, Walker look to use his direct running and pace and movement to get in behind their defence. Rose 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 Hamsik 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 Mertens and Fekir the freedom to hurt Arsenal’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 Mertens or Fekir 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: Neny for Allen 70’ more defensive runner. Moutinho for Martens 75’. Lichtesteiner for Walker 85’.
If Drawing: Moutinho for Allen 70’. Rashford for Fekir 75’. Joao Mario for Florenzi 80’.
If Losing: Rashford for Davies 60’, 4-3-3, Hamsik into midfield. Moutinho for Allen 70’. Shaqiri for Florenzi 75’ 4-2-4.
Spurs v STOKE
Line up:
Perin
Sidibe Marquinhos Koscielny Coentrao
Fabinho
Mkhitaryan Fabregas Wilshere Ribery
Ibrahimovic
Substitutes: Rulli; Jedvaj; Cuadrado; Koziello; Pjaca; Belotti; Bacca
Captain: Ibrahimovic
Penalties: Ibrahimovic
Corners: Fabregas
Free Kicks: Ribery
Game Plan:
The idea with this 4-1-4-1 formation is to use our superior technique and passing ability to control the tempo of the game and keep Spurs on the back foot.
The formation we are lining up in facilitates our intention to play out from the back and build up at our own pace, using neat triangles and clever movement to keep Spurs away from the ball and to invite them to tire themselves out chasing shadows.
The sole defensive midfielder plays an important role in this formation. Given that he is the sole defensive shield (unlike in a two-man midfield) he must ensure that he’s always well-positioned and not too advanced, while at the same time being able to receive passes from the wide men. The two midfield players are also key, as their sense of positioning will change the flow of the game. If they’re too deep too soon, the tempo will be slow whereas if they’re too advanced they will be unable to contribute to the team’s offensive play.
The back four, too, play an important role in our attack as they must collect the ball from deep, spreading out across the entire width of the pitch, and keep calm in passing in to space and allowing Spurs to come forward on the press from where we can poke holes in their formation.
The two full backs are very good on the ball and attack minded and they will operate in a similar fashion to how Rafinha and Alaba operated in Guardiola's Bayern, pushing in to practically half back roles and influencing the possession game from a more central position.
Further up the pitch, Mkhitaryan has been chosen for the right flank due to Pedro’s injury and his pace and talent for playmaking, but also his industrious work ethic, which will come in to effect when we are out of possession.
In the centre of the pitch, Wilshere will be tasked with playing the box to box role, getting stuck in defensively to alleviate the pressure from Fabinho and the defence, and getting involved in the attacks by driving forward with the ball. Wilshere’s engine and exuberance will free space for Fabregas to operate in the pocket, dictating the tempo of the game and looking to unlock Spurs’ tough defence.
Ribery will operate more as an inside forward, coming in from the left flank and playing off knock downs and flick ons from Ibrahimovic. He will be looking to create opportunities from inside, with Coentrao and Wilshere moving in to space on the overlap. From this area, Ribery will be able to play in Mkhi and Ibra or dribble his way to a goalscoring opportunity.
Ibrahimovic is given a free role to influence the game in any way that he can. Ibra is a big man with great control and a fast mind and he will constantly keep the Spurs defence guessing - he can score from anywhere on the pitch and we will be expecting him to grab some goals today.
A key part of our game plan today is that we keep the ball on the deck and dictate how the game is played. We can't allow Spurs to press and unsettle us and we don't want to resort to pumping long hopeful balls as they will be gobbled up by the opposition defence more often than not.
Our defence relies solely on Barcelona's 6 second pressing rule, as usual. The idea is to win the ball back quickly by committing numbers to the press, surrounding the ball carrier and limiting the number of options that he has, thus increasing our chances of winning the ball back.
If this fails in the, roughly, 6 seconds, then we must fall back and tightly pack our defence, waiting for the next opportunity to press in numbers rather than wasting energy.
The idea of pressing is to put pressure on the ball with the intention of winning it back off of the opposition. By forcing the opposition to complete an action in a pressured atmosphere, every aspect of that action is made more difficult. An action consists of both a decision and the execution of that decision – if these two aspects can be manipulated correctly, the opponent will lose the ball and we will regain possession.
Substitutions:
70 minutes: Cuadrado for Ribery - Given his ageing legs, we will bring on Cuadrado to run the line on the left. His pace and energy will make for a tough time defensively on Spurs’ right flank and more assurance on our left.
75 minutes: Koziello for Wilshere - A high action game for Wilshere will leave him out of breath so we will bring on our young tenacious midfielder to play the same game as his predecessor.
80 minutes: Pjaca for Mkhitaryan - Another cameo for the young winger to show what he can do.
---------------------- Neuer ------------------
Carvajal ------ Bartra -- Laporte ---- Guerreiro
------ Rabiot ----- Gundogan -- Matuidi
Costa ----------- Lewandowski ---------- Dembele
Subs: Navas, Alves, Tah, Fernandinho, Coman, Martial, Morata
4-3-3, aim to dominate the mf today as we feel that is Hull's weakest area, very possession based as we play at a high tempo looking to get the front 3 in as much as possible stretching them with our pace and movement.
Look to control the game, as we advance our passing gets quicker and more direct. We look for avenues towards the flanks to create holes, wingers switch flanks to mix it up, fb’s overlap, runners from deep and service into the box.
High line, look to press higher up the pitch, quick on our feet as we look to narrow the options of any pass going forward, intensive pressing in mf and box them in with our attackers if they look to play out from the back.
When we press, press as a unit. High energy, organisation and aggression, cut off the supply by pressing the space and only allow them to play where we want them to. Man-mark and allow little time on the ball for their more creative based players to dictate or create.
If they look to go more counter attacking, our CDM (Rabiot) and Carvajal sit in more than they might. Bartra man-marks their ST, we look to get to any 2nd balls quicker than the opposition.
Neuer quick off his line and mops up at the back, one of the best at operating in a system where we press higher up so will be alert to any danger and ensure we are controlling possession through his distribution.
Playing out from the back, we should be quick to bypass their initial phase of pressing, keep it simple but 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.
Matuidi being the box to box engine he is, will be the link between mf and attack. At times maraud and use his burst of energy to get us moving forward, also very physical and getting in their faces off the ball.
I want us very direct and moving the ball at a quick pace, creating as many lines as possible in midfield. Movement is essential as we look to create holes in the opposition backline, ensure there is plenty of width on offer and link up with fluidity, snappy passes into feet, quick one two's and first time balls beyond their backline.
Defensively we transition into a 4-1-4-1 if we lose possession, two banks of four with a solid structure and organisation.
If they advance into dangerous areas or generally past the halfway line, we should look to drop deeper (10 men behind the ball) and crowd them out, press 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 and work as a unit.
Frustrate the opposition with our organisation, stay rigid and allow their attackers little involvement in the game so they have to come deeper to get involved, make them play in front of us and ensure we prevent runs in behind as much as possible.
If we win the ball in higher areas, counter attack with pace. Use the flanks as a base and don't allow them to re-organise, hit them hard on the break using our ST as a target-man.
In attack we need to create as many lines as possible in midfield to counter their press, 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.
Wingers today will provide plenty of width, stay wide and make sure we stretch the opposition. Allow the midfielders plenty of options going forward when on the ball through their movement, target their FB’s on a constant basis and get service into the front man from the flanks.
We should actively look for one on one situations in wide areas, have a right go at their backline, penetrate and create holes and always on the run, never standing still. Our FB’s should look to overlap depending on the flank with the other staying back, get the ball in the box with pace to create panic.
When we win the ball in midfield, Gundogan is the initiator in attack, get him on the ball and looking for an early release, we need his calm presence and eye for a pass, the base for a counter and feeding the ST’s as much as possible.
Service out from the back, put them off their organisation with diagonal balls over the top into feet, switch the play quickly and allow the attackers to run into space.
Lewandowski strong as an outlet, get our midfield and flankers into the game. Drop deep at times to get involved and dominate the CB's aerially, press from the front.
Subs:
68th minute - If winning - (4-3-3)
Fernandinho > Rabiot
Martial > Dembele
Like for like, stay compact defensively and hit them on the break if they flood forward.
74th minute – if draw - (4-5-1)
Martial > Dembele
Morata > Lewandowski
Fernandinho > Rabiot
Create as many lines as possible, fresh faces in attack, rigid in defence and look to to move the ball around with pace looking to target gaps.
74th minute - If losing (4-4-2)
Morata > Rabiot
Coman > Dembele
Alves > Carvajal
4-4-2, two banks of four and looking to attack, very direct, Morata partners Lewa. Costa and Coman as wingers with support from FB's.
C – Neuer
FK’s – Gundogan / near - Lewandowski
Corners – Gundogan
Pens – Lewandowski
Red card (4-4-1)
Matuidi off, 2 banks of four with men behind the ball and break with pace.
DF – Matuidi off, Alves/Tah on/ 4-4-1
CM’s – no change, change formation/ 4-4-1
WG/s – Matuidi off/ Coman (RW)/Martial (LW) on/ 4-4-1
ST – Matuidi off/ Morata on/ 4-4-1
———————————Courtois
Azpilicueta———Bailly——————Koulibaly———Marcelo
————————————Allan
———————Rakitic——————Koke
———————————Coutinho
—Carrasco————————————————Griezmann
Subs: Bravo, Aurier, Danilo, Jorginho, V.Moses, I.Williams, J.Hernandez
Captain: Koke
Free Kicks: Philippe Coutinho/Ivan Rakitic
Penalties: Antoine Griezmann
Corners: Koke/Ivan Rakitic
Huge game so we are going with a different tact to try and surprise them and gain an advantage with high pressing a 4-3-3/5-3-2 hybrid that targets the gaps between FB and CBs where Leicester will be most vulnerable.
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 we are pressing as a 4-3-3 and if we are in our half we are back to 5-3-2. Our biggest tweak this week is to use two wide forwards when we press, so that we push Griezmann and Carrasco onto their FBs to stop them becoming an outlet and to also make sure they are forced to stay back in more defensive positions. Coutinho will look to press the deep midfielder then, always in his face stopping him dictating the game, instead leaving the CBs unmarked and covering all their passing options so they have to play their team mates into danger. Behind the three we have what will be a 3 man midfield when we press, Koke and Rakitic both very tenacious and hard working looking to combat the oppositions box to box/attacking midfielders, going man to man, if we win this battle we can dominate the game. Allan is behind as a shield, looking to cut off the passing options into the CF and the wide men, basically positioning himself in line with the play and mopping up loose balls, which leaves a back 4, FBs tight to their wingers and CBs smothering the CF. Just like this we place a blanket over their entire team and force them into uncomfortable positions where we can work hard win the ball and attack them. If we are forced much deeper we revert to the usual 5-3-2 with Allan dropping into CB and Coutinho into midfield, the two forwards stay in the wide areas so the opposition FBs are too occupied to go forward, they can't risk leaving our two strikers alone as their pace is too much, which allows our FB and wide CBs to double up on their wide attacking players, Hazard for example with Azpi going 1 v 1 and Bailly covering.
We look to vary our attacking play today, with our two big weapons being the forwards pace and our midfielders passing ability. We can go for the fast free flowing football option so that when we win it we use the passing ability of Rakitic and Koke to cut them open. In these attacks, Allan drops in to CB to give us a back three, allowing Azpilicueta and Marcelo to push on and play as WBs, Marcelo with his great technical ability, and Azpilicueta with his running to the byline and crosses. When we win the ball, the opposition CBs will be panicking, looking who to pick up, with no one in a usual CF position, we look to take advantage of any organisation issues this costs by having one of the wide forwards stretch out to the touchline and one in the gap between CB and FB, we send the ball out to the stretch flank, doubling up with WB and WF to hurt their FBs, with Coutinho coming towards the play to play in the half spaces, looking to get unmarked and in position to pick his passes, dragging their DM out of positions also opens up more room for Rakitic and Koke who step forward and take control of the game. The aim then is to either shuffle the ball across quickly and find a pass to the opposite forward will look to run in behind with his pace, or alternatively we attack the FB, get out to the byeline and have the other forward coming central, forcing a CB to pick him up and allowing the WB and a Cm to attack the box, getting 4 in with Coutinho too for a ball in. Plan B is for if Allan, Koke, Rakitic or Coutinho to find themselves with some room to play a longer diagonal pass, looking to immediately release a WF between defenders and get them running in behind. Carrasco and Griezmann are so tricky on the ball they should be able to beat their men for pace and skill and drag the team forward with them.
Subs:
If Winning: I.Williams for Carrasco 70’, fresh legs and blistering pace to keep Leicester’s defenders pegged back. Aurier for Coutinho 75’, 5-3-2 with Azpi into CB, Williams and Griezmann will play narrow in order to keep the midfield packed, leave no space to break into. Danilo for Koke 80’, more defensive cover.
If Drawing: Williams for Carrasco 70’, faster runner to get in behind. Hernandez for Coutinho 75’, he plays further forward that Coutinho, looking to get into space in the box. Aurier for Azpilicueta 80’, look to push further on with his powerful running.
If Losing: Moses for Allan 60’, 3-4-3. Hernandez for Carrasco 70’, get into the box to poach goals.Williams for Marcelo 80’
Aston Villa v WOLVES
Injuries: Vrsaljko, Monreal, Bentaleb, Antonio
Ineligible: Kondogbia
Ter Stegen
De Vrij - Fonte - Howedes
De Marcos - Cazorla - Schneiderlin - Baba
Mata - Rooney
Lukaku
Subs: Begovic, Cahill, Schweinsteiger, Fraser, Bernardeschi, Schurrle, Long
-----------------
Big game today, going to try and get a positive result even though Villa are a very good side especially at home.
Going full strength today, taking no chances as Villa are a very good side and we want to make sure we get as good a result as we can. Ter Stegen in goal, back three of De Vrij, Fonte and Howedes, De Marcos and Baba Rahman in the wingback roles, Cazorla and Schneiderlin patrolling the midfield, with Mata and Rooney supporting Lukaku.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting through today. Villa 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 three with assistance from the wingbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a duo who can dictate the game in Cazorla and Schneiderlin, with Mata and Rooney ahead of them, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. De Marcos and Baba will get forward at times and 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.
De Vrij/Fonte/Howedes - Howedes to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, De Vrij and Fonte to be the spare men, be first to the second ball and their second striker/AM making runs from midfield. If they play two strikers Fonte pick up the second striker and De Vrij to be the spare man. 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. Two of you go forward for setpieces.
De Marcos/Baba Rahman - Both of you to force the Spurs 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 five with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Mata/Rooney 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. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Cazorla/Schneiderlin - Schneiderlin to focus on their AM and man mark him, Cazorla to stay in front of the back five and ensure any Midfielders breaking from deep, or wingers cutting infield are taken care of, while dictating possession from deep. In possession look for Mata/Rooney/Lukaku, or the wingbacks getting forward.
Mata/Rooney - Both of you to burst forward to join the Lukaku as our AM's, look to receive the ball and run at the Villa defence, bring the ball to create space for others and look for the runs of Lukaku. Shoot if you get into position, also force the Villa 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 5-4-1. Get behind Lukaku on occasion.
Lukaku - you will be expected to occupy the Villa 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 or drawing: Rooney and Mata off, Bernardeschi and Schurrle on. Bernardeschi to RM, Schurrle to LM and form a 5-4-1, but use your fresh legs to get at the overcommitting Villa defence.
If losing: De Vrij and Schneiderlin off, Bernardeschi and Schurrle on. Change to a 4-1-3-2 with De Marcos - Fonte - Howedes - Baba, Cazorla the playmaker, Bernardeschi - Mata - Schurrle behind Lukaku and Rooney. Push for goals.
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
24. Bellerin — 2. Alderweireld — 3. Benatia — 6. Sandro
————— 34. Coquelin —— 29. Xhaka
8. Lamela ————— 17. KDB ————— 11. Reus
———————————— 9. Benzema
SUBS: 31. Chesney, 15. Savic, 16. De Rossi, 23. Eriksen, 14. Plea, 22. Mor, 19. Falcao
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 Lamela coming into the side bringing his creativity with him, helping to dominate the midfield against a strong midfield, taking control with his dynamism especially when providing a threat from wide. 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 Alderweireld Xhaka and Coquelin will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. Xhaka and Coquelin will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line while Alderweireld 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 Bellerin 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 Coquelin are our second line of defence and attack, by playing two deeper lying players they can rotate, one of them will always be available for the ball when we're in possession and both are able to launch attacks quickly due to their passing ability, defensively they are to watch runs from the opposition midfield who will be dangerous, both are very tactically educated and comfortable playing this way. Xhaka will be tasked with pushing the team forwards in the attacking phase and arriving late in the box.
Our attacking midfield trio are absolutely crucial to the way we want to attack, KDB is somewhat free of defensive responsibility unless under pressure as both Lamela 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 Lamela 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.
Benzema will play as the centre forward, his reactions 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 KDB, Lamela and Reus to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on De Rossi for KDB. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.
If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Eriksen for Coquelin. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Xhaka will drop back to DM to control the game while Eriksen and KDB will dominate from behind Reus as well as adding an extra goal threat in a 4-1-4-1. Lamela on right and Reus to the left.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Falcao for KDB. Attacking 4-4-2 with Xhaka and Eriksen in the middle and Lamela on the right Reus on the left. Falcao and Benzema up front.
Leicester v Liverpool
Balanced 4-3-3
Away from home, we go with a balanced side but one we think can dominate possession and control the game. The opposition like to go 4-4-2, we go with 3 in the middle, with the extra man looking to win the midfield battle. 3 cm with great work rates.
Up top Ronaldo slots in to his favoured LW position, on the other side we go with Hazard who offers a real threat. Costa as well offers someone who will press from the front, giving freedom for Ronaldo to be at his best. Can on the left side, adding cover for Ronaldo.
We go with a hardworking team but with cbs and a cm trio that are all confident on the ball. We want to get the best out of Costa and Ronaldo.
Importantly we have a cm trio that are all strong on the ball. Going forward Can will tend to be the dm, sitting and offering cover against Villa who will likely have two strikers. The cm trio though are fluid, if the break is on the deepest sits.
The cm 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.
The two wingers have freedom to play central in the final third. In the first two thirds we want to keep them wide, test their fbs defensively.
With great movement in our midfield, and one fb bombing forward we’ll drag their players out of position, getting our midfielders on the ball to create the chances. After Liverpool 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.
--------------- Handanovic
Danilo - Otamendi – J.Martinez - Ghoulam
--------- Kroos – Kampl - E.Can
Hazard ------------------------ C.Ronaldo
------------------ D.Costa
Subs. Schmeichel, Rafael, Borthwick-Jackson, Nzonzi, Correa, Pereyra, Jese
Key to our attack is quick attacking play on the ball and when moving on. Varying our play and how we get the ball to our wingers/Costa quickly.
Defence
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 Ronaldo and Costa gets behind the ball into position. Stop them breaking.
In a deep, narrow, rigid formation, in two lines of four, 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. Can sits in front, when we’re attacking we always have 3 defenders with the dm in front, offering plenty of defensive cover.
As Villa advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-4-2. Hazard will drop in to a more defensive position, and Can fills in defensively on the left. We defend narrow if their fbs aren’t attacking, the midfielder on that side comes inside.
In the centre, Kampl presses the ball with Kroos dropping deep to cover. Likely one of their cms will be sitting deep covering, so one of Ronaldo or Costa will simply sit on him, take him out the game.
The winger opposite to the play coming narrow and deep next to him providing a further wall in between those pressing and the back four. Narrowing the play to the side 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 Kroos 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.
The cm trio look to control the play for us.
Javi has freedom to play long balls, over the top for our attackers, direct to Ronaldo or Costa. Stretch their team. If their defence drops deeper it gives us the ability to push up and dominate the game, if they keep a high line we can continue to try get in behind and find our attackers in space.
In possession, the defence push up playing a reasonably high line as all are comfortable in possession and have great pace with a dm offering further cover in front. The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, starting our attacks from the back.
The midfield should never be flat. The cm trio will look to pass the ball in triangles, always looking to go on further and provide another passing option.
Two of the cm trio have freedom to get forward at a time and look for space between their defence and midfield. One will look to get in the box when we’re getting balls in, the other hangs slightly further back, a few yards from the edge of the penalty box back, looking to get on any loose balls.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. The cms 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 and Ronaldo have freedom to play their natural game.
Substitutions:
70 minutes: Nzonzi for Kampl - Having Nzonzi to hold and spread the play around allows Kroos and Can to be more adventurous themselves, making use of their high levels of stamina.
75 minutes: Correa for Hazard - The young winger/forward always provides a threat when he's on the pitch and his ability to put a shift in defensively is not to be underestimated.
80 minutes: Pereyra for Can - A very tricky player to keep under wraps, Pereyra's acceleration and boundless energy could provide the spark required to seal the victory late on in this game.
--------------------------Leno--------------------
---Juanfran---Mussachio---Sokratis---Milner---
------------------Verratti------Dembele------------
----Candreva---------Lallana---------Draxler-----
-------------------------Cavani----------------------
Subs: Zoet, Tete, Bernat, Bakayoko, Banega, Mandzukic, Sanabria.
Looking to be a real tough home game against Newcastle, but our game plan is to go toe to toe with them and look to put as much pressure on them as we can. We know we have the quality to hurt them, but it's about showing that now at the crucial time to help us pick up as many points as we can in this relegation fight.
Our defence will be a nice rigid back 4 that will be organised and constructed by Leno. Milner in at LB as Newcastle usually like to play with Inside forwards on either/both flanks so that could be showing him inside onto his stronger right foot. If not, both full backs track the wide men inside at all costs. Sokratis picking up the main man with Mussachio in close attention being the "spare" defender in this case looking to sweep in behind everything. Our wingers Candreva and Draxler will also do their defensive duties, coming in and supporting our full backs wherever possible and looking to cut off the supply to the wide men as well be being wary of the full backs bombing on. As Newcastle don't usually play with an AM because their wingers will come inside, our full backs track the wingers, wingers will track the full backs and now we will have Verratti, Dembele and Lallana pressing the 2 middle men who will be more advanced. They will press them hard and because it will be a 3vs2 in our favour in the midfield, we should have always have that "spare" man in midfield to help cover the space. Cavani will be the one to press their DM when he is on the ball so he doesn't have too much time to pick passes and dictate the play.
Should we win the ball back, we will break quickly with short passes and we build up our attacks and try to force their players out of position quickly. We will also look to break forward using our wingers and full backs as well and stretch the play. As their wide men will be inside forwards, there is space to exploit down the flanks to get into a 2v1 with their full backs if we can.
When we go forward we push our full backs on to support our wingers and we look to use width to stretch the game as often as possible. Verratti will play in between the CB's as those 3 look to build our attacks from the back and feed it into more attacking or wide areas. Dembele acts as the link in midfield, with the ability to drive forward with speed and power and good passing ability, his all round attacking game needs to be good in midfield and he as to pick up space when he can. Lallana as well will be looking to pick up little pockets of space in the midfield when he can and really moving the midfield about, looking to thread little balls through their defence when he can. Our wingers and full backs are important as to how we attack. Juanfran and Milner will look to support Candreva and Draxler on each side. Milner and Draxler will look to cut inside onto their stronger feet respectively to put a better angle for a cross or open up more space in and around the edge of the box to link with other players. Candreva and Juanfran will both hug the touchline and Juanfran will run beyond Candreva to the byline and look to whip crosses in from there and they will look to make it a 2v2 down the flanks and make some space and really whip some dangerous crosses into the box when possible. Cavani will look to attack every cross he can and out crosses aimed for the near post so Cavani can run across the defender and look to flick it on into dangerous areas or towards goal. His movement has to be key, looking to peal away from the defenders whenever he can and then finding the finishes as well as looking for that space in and around the box.
Subs:
Bakayoko > Dembele, 75 mins
Mandzukic > Cavani, 80 mins
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
24. Bellerin — 2. Alderweireld — 3. Benatia — 6. Sandro
————— 16. De Rossi —— 29. Xhaka
8. Lamela ————— 17. KDB ————— 11. Reus
———————————— 9. Benzema
SUBS: 31. Chesney, 15. Savic, 14. Oriol Romeu, 23. Eriksen, 14. Plea, 7. Bernardo, 19. Falcao
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 Lamela coming into the side bringing his creativity with him, helping to dominate the midfield against a strong midfield, taking control with his dynamism especially when providing a threat from wide. Lamela will also make is more solid with his tracking back. 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 Alderweireld Xhaka and DDR will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. Xhaka and DDR will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line while Alderweireld 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 Bellerin 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 DDR are our second line of defence and attack, by playing two deeper lying players they can rotate, one of them will always be available for the ball when we're in possession and both are able to launch attacks quickly due to their passing ability, defensively they are to watch runs from the opposition midfield who will be dangerous, both are very tactically educated and comfortable playing this way. Xhaka will be tasked with pushing the team forwards in the attacking phase and arriving late in the box.
Our attacking midfield trio are absolutely crucial to the way we want to attack, KDB is somewhat free of defensive responsibility unless under pressure as both Lamela 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 Lamela 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.
Benzema will play as the centre forward, his reactions 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 KDB, Lamela and Reus to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on Romeu for KDB. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.
If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Eriksen for DDR. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Xhaka will drop back to DM to control the game while Eriksen and KDB will dominate from behind Reus as well as adding an extra goal threat in a 4-1-4-1. Lamela on right and Reus to the left.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Falcao for KDB. Attacking 4-4-2 with Xhaka and Eriksen in the middle and Lamela on the right Reus on the left. Falcao and Benzema up front.
League Cup semi final second leg
WOLVES (0) v Spurs (1)
Injuries: Long, Ter Stegen, Cahill, Gustavo
----------------------Begovic
Vrsaljko - Fonte - Howedes - Monreal
--------------------Kondogbia
-------------Cazorla - H.Herrera
------------------------Mata
---------------Lukaku - Rooney
Subs: Semper, De Vrij, Schneiderlin, Bernardeschi, Lanzini, Embolo, Fraser
-----------------
Big game in the cup, need to overturn a 1-0 defecit against Spurs. We will be going with the plan of dominating and congesting the midfield we aim to give ourselves the best possible chance of success today.
Going full strength today, taking no chances as Spurs are a very good side and we want to make sure we get to the final. Begovic in goal, Vrsaljko, Fonte, Howedes and Monreal in defence, Kondogbia at the bottom of the diamond, Cazorla and H.Herrera in central midfield, Mata at the tip of the diamond behind Lukaku and Rooney upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting through today. Spurs 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 trio who can dictate the game in Kondogbia, Cazorla and H.Herrera, with Mata ahead of them, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Vrsaljko and Monreal will overlap and get crosses in. 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, with Rooney a proven matchwinner up alongside him to give us the best chance of scoring the goals we need to progress.
Begovic - 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.
Fonte/Howedes - Howedes to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Fonte 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 Kondogbia 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.
Vrsaljko/Monreal - Both of you to force the Spurs 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 to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Lukaku/Rooney, and link with Cazorla/H.Herrera/Mata. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Kondogbia - Playing the DM role to keep things tight, you will be expected to mark their AM but don't follow him out wide. Cover any runs from their Midfielders. When on the ball look for Cazorla/H.Herrera/Mata.
Cazorla/H.Herrera - Both of you playing box to box playmaker roles, without the ball support Kondogbia/Vrsaljko/Monreal in dealing with the Spurs attack, but in possession bring the ball forward, look to supply the front three and look for the fullbacks overlapping you and providing width. Their runs should also give you space to run into with or without the ball. Shoot if the opportunity arises.
Mata - Mata to burst forward to join the front two as our AM, look to receive the ball and run at the Spurs defence, bring the ball to create space for others and look for the runs of Rooney/Lukaku. Shoot if you get into position, also force the Spurs defenders to foul you when you're attacking as we can be lethal from setpieces. Link with Lukaku and Rooney regularly. Drift out wide on occasion to create space for others. Essentially a free role as there will be 7 outfield players behind you doing the dirty work. Your job today is to score or create.
Lukaku/Rooney - Lukaku will be expected to occupy the Spurs 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. Rooney will be the second striker, drift left or right of Lukaku to create space, make the late run into the area to keep the defence guessing, and use your physicality with Big Rom to cause twice as many problems for their centrebacks. Be our matchwinner today. Big match Wayne.
------------------
Subs 75 mins:
If winning by 2 or more goals: Mata and Rooney off, Bernardeschi and Fraser on. Switch to a flat 4-5-1 with Bernardeschi at RW and Fraser at LW. Look to hit Spurs on the break when they overcommit.
If winning by 1 goal: Mata and Rooney off, Lanzini and Embolo on. Same system, Lanzini to AM, Embolo alongside Lukaku upfront. Fresh legs with pace and power to get at the tiring Spurs defence and force the winner.
If drawing or losing: Vrsaljko, Kondogbia and H.Herrera off, Bernardeschi, Fraser and Embolo on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, back three of Fonte, Howedes and Monreal, Cazorla the playmaker, Bernardeschi - Rooney - Mata - Fraser behind a front two of Embolo and Lukaku. Push for goals.
comment by Marty McFud (U19588)
posted 5 days ago
-------------------Forster---------------------
Cedric----van Dijk----Kompany---Kolarov
--------------Kante-----Matic----------------
Mahrez-----------Gotze-------------Willian
------------------Lacazette-------------------
Pickford, Valencia, B.Mendy, Prowse, Gelson, Dembele, Llorente
Forster behind the back four which is a solid defensive unit this defence has probably been as good as any in the league and we aim to keep it this way today, 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, Forster is a huge frame and dominates his area against the opposition.
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. Both go up for corners and free kicks as they are both very dangerous in the opposition box. Matic sits in with the fullabacks when they go forward.
Cedric 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. In this game we are obviously going to be up against top class players so our fullbacks must time there runs forward and not just do it for the sake of it. We MUST hold a strong line at the back to stop them breaking through and in on Forster.
We are going to look and play a compact midfield to reduce the time they have on the ball. Kante and Matic do this and will be sitting in with either making the occassional run forward, one of them must sit in at all times.Kante 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 wingers/Gotze. 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. Kante doesn't let anything go and will be at their players at all times, he has endless energy and wont give up, so as Matic takes care of the AM Kante will be at the heals of every one else in possession in the middle of the park.
Mahrez and Willian will play with freedom to attack and support Gotze 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 Cedric and Kolarov. When we defend this a flat bank of 4 with Gotze just a little further forward. 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. Both Willian and Mahrez are also very good in front of goal so if an opportunity arises then they have freedom to go for goal.
Gotze 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 also 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 Gotze 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 -Virgil van Dijk
Penalties - A.Lacazette
Free Kicks - Mario Gotze
Corners - Mario Gotze
Subbstitutes
If we a re losing, bring Valenica on for Cedric, he is a more attacking right back on 60 minutes, Dembele on for Gotze and he goes up front on 70 minutes with Lacazette and on 80 minutes Gelson will come on for Matic, he will go to the right wing with Mahrez playing a central attacking role.
If we are winning then Prowse will come on for Gotze on 70 minutes and go into central midfield and on 80 minutes Llorente will come on for Lacazette and Valencia for Mahrez at the same time
If we are drawing then Valencia for Mahrez and Prowse for Gotze on 80 minutes and play 451, Dembele for Lacazette on 85 minutes
Penalties
Lacazette
Valencia
Mahrez
Kolarov
Dembele/Llorente
Willian
van Dijk
Attacking 3-5-2
Inspired by Conte's all action Italian 3-5-2 at the Euros go with a 3 man defence to provide cover for the midfielders and attackers to overload the opposition. At home in the cup we push for the win.
The two strikers provide the first line of pressure, force the opposition to play out wide. Pressing high up the park, in a compact unit we will be able to press the space and make it difficult for Villa to play out of these areas.
Otamendi marks the striker, giving us two spare cbs, who will go wide to mark the winger on the side of play negating the space left behind the pressing wide midfielder.
Up top we give Hazard and Ronaldo complete creative freedom. Verratti and Vidal both offer great grit and fight in cm, but more importantly the trio are all great on the ball as we look to cut through the opposition. Thiago the slightly more attacking of the CM trio.
With two A.Vidals we'll also confuse the opposition and they wont know who to mark.
Going forward we will mix our play at times going long over the top for the pace of our forwards, or one forward dropping deep. The two forwards will both create space and chances for each other, we're confident they can both get the better of their man at times and with one cb being pulled away it can leave them one on one.
The forwards will also have great support coming from the midfield 5.
------------- Handanovic
---- Ramos - Otamendi - Umtiti
A.Vidal - Verrati - A.Vidal - Ghoulam
--------------- Thiago.A
---------- C.Ronaldo - Hazard
Subs. Schmeichel, Danilo, Miranda, Nzonzi, Pastore, L.Sane, D.Costa
Playing with a high tempo we look to hit Villa hard at the start of the match, and at the start of the second half. We have two wide midfielders with great work rates and stamina that will get up and down the park and provide the width in attack, getting crosses in for Ronaldo.
Defence
When we have the ball, the cb on the side of the play goes wide, negating the problem of space behind an attacking wb, by our wide cb being in a position to instinctively cover. It also gives us an easy pass back down the line.
When we lose the ball, the two forwards drop into a central area between the cbs and their deepest cms. Blocking passes in the central channels and forcing them wide. In these areas we press them high up the park and make Villa play into trouble. With the wide midfielder pressing the ball, the forward on that side of play and a cm looking to shut all options. With the other midfielders narrowing behind to cover.
As a compact unit we narrow to the side they are attacking.
When they progress further up to the middle third of the park, we stick in a 3-1-4-2 formation. The midfield four will press in a compact zig zag shape, the cm closest to play will sit deeper, as will the wing back opposite play that has came narrow. Allowing us to cover horizontal and vertical angles on the field, and cover space more effectively. Give them no options to play through.
Behind this four either Verratti or Vidal sits in order to cover. When the opposition play the ball forward to a midfielder we have a player in a position to get tight on him, pressing him so that the opposition player has his back to goal, limiting the passing options. The cbs behind will narrow to the side of play.
When defending in our own third the two wide midfielders drop back to fb positions setting us up in a 5-3-2 formation. Allowing us to have a cb and wide midfielder defending each wing. Defending aggressively in numbers.
Attack
We always leave Hazard and Ronaldo forward. Ronaldo coming back to defend set-pieces/corners. This gives us the opportunity to counter quickly.
If the counter is not on we have great quality in the midfield trio on the ball to create opportunities.
Quick one twos in the opposition half. The midfield look to keep the ball on the deck passing in triangles, triangles that are directed out wide as gaps appear in the opposition formation. Thiago has creative freedom in the opposition half. Quick interchangeable play in the final third, using our strong close control and pace to break through.
And mix things up using Ronaldo's ability to dominate in the air, with crosses from deep.
Subs. If winning after 65 mins bring on Danilo for Aleix Vidal. Like for like, fresh legs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Diego Costa for Ronaldo. Up against tired defenders a fresh Costa is the last thing they'll want to see.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Nzonzi for Verratti. Bring the power.
If drawing after 65 mins bring on Costa for Thiago. Moving to a 3-4-3, Ronaldo left, Hazard right.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Pastore for Aleix Vidal. 4-2-1-3. Pastore no.10. We need two goals. Ramos rb.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Danilo for Umtiti. All out gung ho. 2-4-1-3.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Costa for Verratti. 3-4-3.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Sane for Aleix Vidal and Pastore for Ghoulam. Score some goals.
----------------------- J.Hart -----------------------
Coleman --- M.Ginter --- L.Perrin --- J.Hector
------- Brozovic -- Strootman -- A.Gomes ------
Phillips ------------- Balotelli ------------ Perotti
Johnstone, Rojo, Cancelo, Rincon, Calhanoglu, Redmond, Icardi
In goal Joe Hart, a good 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.
Ginter beside club captain Loic Perrin, on this occassion Ginter will man mark the CF, he is quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, powerfully built so marking the CF should be no trouble as he has to man up to him most likely to be Vardy so must stick tight to him, this will be his sole purpose today, Stop Vardy or whoever plays up front and we have a chance, will keep him away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Perrin alongside is fantastic in the air, so will mark any other big players that come into our danger area, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger. Both go up for corners and are a huge threat.
Coleman and Hector at fullback, both good defensively and this will be vital against two top wingers we must keep them quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of attacks. They will look to keep them away from shooting areas where is dangerous in any position. Both FBs can attack. One goes the other stays as they look to make an extra man down the flank by overlapping our wingers allowing them to cut inside or play neat one twos to free the wingers up. .
We go with a midfield trio of Brozovic, Gomes and Strootman. Strootman the most defensive out the three so he sits in, not an out an out DM, but they work very hard together as a trio shutting the opposition down, so really if they stay in position whilst they attack it will be a hard task for them to break down. Strootman sits in allowing the other two to attack, Brozovic at times being the furthest forward as Stroots looks to dictate the passage of play from a deeper position (these two will swap roles during the game) and allow the 4 in front to go for goal, they are all good passers and have great vision and technique, they pick up from the back four always keep there heads up and look around before they get the ball, so if they are under pressure they know exactly where to play the quick pass. If they are under pressure from an opponent, shield the ball and pass back to defenders to start again. A very energetic trio and they all get right into the opposition players faces, not nasty players but strong in the tackle and dont give away much. Brozovic or Gomes I want to support Balotelli as much as possible and look to play neat triangles between the wingers to set them free.
Phillips and Perrotti are both aggressive attack minded players, but also good defensively, I want them to have a real go today, drive down the wings using pace and skill to get them beyond the fullbacks. They both have tricks in the locker and will use them as they look to get Icardi and CM's and each other in on goal. Phillips will look to bomb down the line with the support of Coleman and there pace will cause a lot of problems and look to fire in crosses whereas Perrotti will look to use his skill to cut inside and harrass the defence with Gomes, When defending then get back and stop the wingers becoming an attacking threat.
Balotelli up top, he is in fine form, certainly knows where the back of the net is,when he feels like it he is a predator, a natural finisher will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space,our forwards must hit them with pace. Icardi is good in the air and two good feet, can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front four/five will be a threat today we must go for it and keep pace with the league leaders. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Phillips, Perrotti and Coleman
Captain - Perrin
Penalties - Balotelli/Icardi
Free kicks - Brozovic
Corners - Wingers
Subs -
Losing -
65 Mins - go 4231 with Hakan coming on for Gomes and going to No.10
70 Mins - Icardi for Balotelli and Redmond for Coleman
Ginter - Perrin - Hector
Phillips - Brozovic - Stroots - Perrotti
Hakan
Icardi - Redmond
Winning -
70 Mins - Rincon for Gomes he will sit behind the other two as an out an out DM, Icardi for Balotelli
80 Mins - Cancelo for Phillips he plays RM as he and Perrotti sit in a bit 4141
Drawing
70 Mins - Redmond for Perrotti, Icardi for Balotelli, Hakan for Gomes 3 subs to freshen it up
Arkadiusz Milik (sus)
Alessandro Schöpf
Lukas Ascacibar
Lukas Klostermann
Captain: Geis
Penalties: Werner (Driussi)
Free Kicks: Geis
--------------------------Horn
Weiser---------Elvedi----------Süle------Henrichs
------------------Geis-----------Dahoud
Bailey-----------------Gnabry-------------Forsberg
-------------------------Werner
Subs: Karius, Stark, Wimmer, Biglia, Gerhardt, Keïta, Driussi
Our defensive unit consists of Nico Elvedi and Niklas Süle paired up at centre-back, Mitchell Weiser at right-back and Benjamin Henrichs at left-back, with Johannes Geis and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Geis and Dahoud we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Dahoud can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Geis can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Dahoud’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Dahoud running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Johannes Geis.
A holding midfielder through and through, Geis is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Geis such a talent.
Geis is also our dead ball specialist, so do watch out for his renowned pin-point accuracy.
The attacking unit consists of Leon Bailey, Serge Gnabry and Emil Forsberg 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 Leon Bailey and Emil Forsberg, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Serge Gnabry 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. Gnabry 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 Bailey, Forsberg or Werner in via fast passing combinations.
Very much like his comrades (Bailey, Gnabry & Forsberg), 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: Driussi on for Werner
Driussi is an all-round centre forward, and with 10 minutes left to go he’s our man to go to for a late goal that could make all of the difference to our result.
-------------------- De Gea --------------------
P.Lahm --- Mustafi --- Bonucci --- Ricardo
----------- Busquets --- L.Modric ------------
Sanchez ---------- Pogba ----------- Neymar
-------------------- Aguero ---------------------
Heaton, Boateng, Kessie, D.Alli, Sterling, G.Jesus, Benteke
In goal De Gea a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, shouting instructions to his defenders. Out very quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.
Bonucci in beside Mustafi on this occassion Mustafi will man mark the CF. Mustafi is quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, powerfully built so marking the CF should be no trouble as he has to man up to him, will keep him away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Bonucci alongside is fantastic in the air, so will mark any other big players that come into our danger area, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger. He too can carry the ball out from defence but we must be careful and only do this when it is possible. Both go up for corners and are a huge threat.
Lahm and Ricardo at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Both are perfect for this as they are both quick . They will look to keep them away from shooting areas where is dangerous in any position. This is a vital clash in this game. They will be up against quality wingers so look to force him away from goal and backwards. I want them to attack when in no danger (one at a time, dont be left exposed)so time these runs perfectly. One sits back a bit and allowing the other to attack, this is keeping a 3 at the back at all times. Their marking abilities are sound, both have good positional sense and very quick, do not make rash desicions and will stay on their feet. Both FBs can attack. When one goes the other stays as they look to make an extra man down the flank for our wingers to cut inside or play neat one twos to free the wingers up as there fullbacks get dragged out of position.
Busquets to stop the AM getting the ball from midfield to the striker, he must be right on top of him looking to close him down at the quickest opportunity, let him dictate play and there striker will get plenty chances, we must not let this happen. So quick and into him, fairly and stop this! Busquets himself will look to dictate from deep as he picks up from the defence and looks to drive us forward with precision passing. Modric v the second most advanced midfielder much the same, but obvs when we have the ball he is allowed to move forward and move into dangerous areas where he is best and force there players back, Modric should have a bit of time to look around him for the pass as he looks to find his team mates with ease, one of the best imo, his vision is top class. Pass and move always look for the return pass. When they have then close down the CM, he will look to ping the ball about so get to him before that opportunity arises. We have put Pogba in a No.10 role or just slightly withdrawn No.10 against there DM he must be strong, Pogba is an all round fantastic midfielder,, however he will look to take the DM on one v one drag him about open up spaces for others to drive into, with the ball at feet look to play quick one twos with those around him so he makes the runs into the box looking for that return ball that will get him in on goal. If the ball is played to him with his back to goal hold it up, draw the foul from the DM, if it doesnt come then look to lay it off, look to play the slide pass into Aguero All three are good all round midfielders, But Busquets i want to sit in the hole with the two either side when defending.
Sanchez and Neymar are known for their creativity, speed, and technical ability and are fearless, explosive attacking midfielders who can change the game with a turn of pace or a dribble. More importantly both scorers of wonderful and important goals. Both technically excellent in limited areas, fast explosive acceleration during the first ten yards. Which more often than not takes them passed defenders and allows them to get into dangerous areas. Always play with there heads up looking for the runs of others to get the ball into there feet. When they have the ball look to stick close to fullbacks and stop them coming forward. Just track the fullbacks and use pace to get back and in around there faces to stop them becoming a threat. Always be looking for Pogba/Modric inside as the four make an awesome quartet attack wise also with Ricardo pushing high up on the left allowing Neymar to cut in alongside or in behind Aguero and a scary proposition for there slow back line
Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front four/five will be a threat today we must go for it and keep pace with the league leaders. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Neymar and Sanchez .Pogba/Fullbacks will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side
Captain - Lahm
Penalties - Pogba
Free kicks - Pogba
Corners - Wingers
Losing
70 Mins - Sterling for Pogba, He goes to RW and Sanchez up front with Aguero 442
80 Mins - Benteke for Aguero, Ricardo to LM, Neymar up top 343, Benteke the focus to bring the other players into the game
Drawing -
70 Mins - Alli for Pogba fresh ideas and energy, good for a goal
80 Mins - Sterling for Sanchez
Winning -
70 Mins - Kessie for Modric, a Kante(esq) type player so runs down the Arsenal midfield allowing no time on the ball
80 Mins - Sterling for Aguero, he goes to LM and Neymar up top, Pogba drop into a CM role beside the other two
Arsenal vs the Chels
Injuries:
Alessio Romagnoli
Ezequiel Garay
Victor Wanyama
M'Baye Niang
……………………………………………….Buffon…………………………
…………………………Rugani…….Barzagli…..Chiellini………….
Oxlade…………………..Marchisio………..Herrera…………….Gray
…………………………………………….D.Silva……………………………………..
…………………………….Welbeck………………Higuain………………………
Subs: Butland, Dier, Gaya, Valero, Berardi, James, Michy B
Yet again Chelsea are the team to beat, and yet again it’s up to us to try and slow them down in their quest for glory – we’ve played them 5 times already this season, 2 wins each and a draw – incidentally we have both our wins at “The Bridge”
Bit of a change around for us today, we all know that Fan is a 4-2-3-1/4-3-3 loyalist so we’re gonna break that formation down today and really stop Chelsea hitting their groove, they do carry a real threat up-front, BUT they need to get the ball in order for them to be able to hurt us, we’re happy for them to have the ball, let them try and break us, we’ll smash em up on the counter.
Sanchez & Neymar
We all know the threat they bring and Fan will need them to be on it today because a midfield of Biscuits and Modric whilst quality can be gotten at and they won’t be bringing the ball forwards so we can get right at them…anyway, our Wing-backs are not marking the above – they are pushing right up to use their blistering pace to force Chelsea’s full-backs to stay back and defend, we’re cutting off their supply links all over the pitch forcing them to go long. Sanchez and Neymar will be man marked by our RCB and LCB- we don’t go out wide to meet them in space we stay compact let them come inside where we can get numerical overloads and force them down “blind alleys”
Our Defence:
Buffon for me is still one of the absolute best in the business, the fact we’ve lifted him and his Juve defence means we have a solid block, they know each other’s game, and we’ll get the job done, our wide cb’s to watch the wingers cutting in, if they run the line leave them be, we’re happy for crosses to come in…Barzagli will shepherd their striker, stay close and nip in to play man and ball.
The Ox and Gray:
Both having very good seasons, very quick and very direct, not your traditional wing-backs but I don’t need them defensively, their job is to pin Chelsea’s full-backs
Marchisio and Herrera:
2 box to boxers one goes one stays, both have goof technical abilities and thankfully both like to get stuck in…Marchisio knows Pogba well from their Juve days so it’s his job to keep Pogba busy.
Silva:
#10 one of the best in the role at operating between the lines and just finding those gaps to exploit, with 2 strikers in front of him, he’ll have some fun, time the runs into the box and get yourself a goal.
Welbz and Higgy:
A strange duo and not a natural pairing BUT I think it’ll pose Chelsea a few problems, I want Higgy slightly infront of their back line and Welbz running off them..Higuain is a great poacher so when the balls flicked he’ll spin and find space in the box, like he has his whole career, Welbz will use his pace and powerful running to get in behind the defence but take a man away and wide creating more space for Higgy.
Subs 65 mins regardless
James > Silva
Berardi > Welbz
Dier > Herrera
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
24. Bellerin — 2. Alderweireld — 3. Benatia — 6. Sandro
————— 16. De Rossi —— 29. Xhaka
8. Lamela ————— 17. KDB ————— 11. Reus
———————————— 9. Benzema
SUBS: 31. Chesney, 15. Inigo, 14. Oriol Romeu, 23. Eriksen, 14. Plea, 7. Bernardo, 19. Falcao
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 Lamela coming into the side bringing his creativity with him, helping to dominate the midfield against a strong midfield, taking control with his dynamism especially when providing a threat from wide. Lamela will also make is more solid with his tracking back. 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 Alderweireld Xhaka and DDR will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. Xhaka and DDR will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line while Alderweireld 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 Bellerin 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 DDR are our second line of defence and attack, by playing two deeper lying players they can rotate, one of them will always be available for the ball when we're in possession and both are able to launch attacks quickly due to their passing ability, defensively they are to watch runs from the opposition midfield who will be dangerous, both are very tactically educated and comfortable playing this way. Xhaka will be tasked with pushing the team forwards in the attacking phase and arriving late in the box.
Our attacking midfield trio are absolutely crucial to the way we want to attack, KDB is somewhat free of defensive responsibility unless under pressure as both Lamela 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 Lamela 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.
Benzema will play as the centre forward, his reactions 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 KDB, Lamela and Reus to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on Romeu for KDB. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.
If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Eriksen for DDR. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Xhaka will drop back to DM to control the game while Eriksen and KDB will dominate from behind Reus as well as adding an extra goal threat in a 4-1-4-1. Lamela on right and Reus to the left.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Falcao for KDB. Attacking 4-4-2 with Xhaka and Eriksen in the middle and Lamela on the right Reus on the left. Falcao and Benzema up front.
Key to our game plan today, is quick passing moves in the midfield and using our pace out wide. We want to win a cup.
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.
Nzonzi is the holding player today, Vidal box to box and Thiago 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 Thiago on the ball to create the chances. Using the pace of our wide men. After Stoke 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
A.Vida; - S.Ramos – Otamendi - Kurzawa
----------- A.Vidal - Nzonzi
---------------- Thiago.A
C.Ronaldo ------------------------ Hazard
---------------- D.Costa
Subs. Schmeichel, Umtiti, Verratti, Can, F.Anderson, Pastore, Giroud
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 Nzonzi 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.
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. Then get forward quickly.
We always keep one fb back. We have a quick defence and energy and pace in midfield to stop quick breaks.
As Stoke 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. Nzonzi will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, reading any dangers to get across. Thiago 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 Stoke 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 Nzonzi 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.
Thiago the playmaker, with Vidal looking to collect the ball from defence, picking the passes to start the attacks. Then looking to find space between their defence and midfield.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Vidal, Thiago 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 Verratti for Thiago. Vidal moves to more advanced cm role.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Anderson for Costa. Ronaldo to centre forward. Fresh pace to get at them.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Giroud for Ronaldo.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Verratti for Nzonzi.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Giroud for Costa. Route one.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Verratti for Nzonzi.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Giroud and Umitit for Aleix Vidal and Kurzawa
-------------------Forster---------------------
Cedric----van Dijk----Kompany----Mendy
--------------Kante------Matic---------------
Gelson------------Gotze-------------Willian
------------------Lacazette-------------------
Pickford, Sakho, Milinkovic-Savic, Mahrez, Boufal, Dembele, Prowse
Forster behind the back four which is a solid defensive unit this defence has probably been as good as any in the league and we aim to keep it this way today, 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, Forster is a huge frame and dominates his area against the opposition.
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. Both go up for corners and free kicks as they are both very dangerous in the opposition box. Matic sits in with the fullabacks when they go forward.
Cedric and Mendy 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 Gelson 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. In this game we are obviously going to be up against top class players so our fullbacks must time there runs forward and not just do it for the sake of it. We MUST hold a strong line at the back to stop them breaking through and in on Forster.
We are going to look and play a compact midfield to reduce the time they have on the ball. Kante and Matic do this and will be sitting in with either making the occassional run forward, one of them must sit in at all times.Kante 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 wingers/Gotze. 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. Kante doesn't let anything go and will be at their players at all times, he has endless energy and wont give up, so as Matic takes care of the AM Kante will be at the heals of every one else in possession in the middle of the park.
Gelson and Willian will play with freedom to attack and support Gotze 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 Gelson and Willian will push wide to stop there fullbacks if needed and support Cedric and Mendy. When we defend this a flat bank of 4 with Gotze just a little further forward. 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. Both Willian and Gelson are also very good in front of goal so if an opportunity arises then they have freedom to go for goal.
Gotze 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 also 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 Gotze 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 Gelson 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 -Virgil van Dijk
Penalties - A.Lacazette
Free Kicks - Mario Gotze
Corners - Mario Gotze
Substitutes
If we are winning then Prowse will come on for Gotze on 70 minutes and go into midfield, Dembele for Lacazette on 80 minutes and on 85 minutes Sakho will come on for Gelson, Sakho to LB, Willian to RM and Mendy to LM in a flat 451
If we are losing then Dembele will come on for Gotze on 75 minutes and Boufal for Willian and, Mahrez for Gelson and we go 442
Drawing then Dembele for Lacazette, Savic for Gotze and Boufal for Willian all on 75 minutes
----------------------- Navas ------------------
Carvajal ----- Varane --- Laporte ---- Guerreiro
-------------- Khedira ----- Gundogan ---------------
Costa --------------- Barkley ------------- Ousmane
------------------- Lewandowski
Subs: Neuer, Tah, Gibbs, Fernandinho, Guedes, Martial, Carroll
Back to a 4-2-3-1 at Home to Hull, solid in defence and plenty of movement and pace up top. A strong side picked as we look to start our FA Cup campaign with a win.
Very possession based, look to control the game. We play out from the back and as we advance our passing gets quicker and more direct. We look for avenues towards the flanks to create holes, runners from deep in mf, wingers switch flanks to mix it up, fb’s overlap and service into the box.
Create as many lines as possible in mf and attack, our CDM sits in and frees himself up as the pass back option, wingers on the move with support from FB's and the likes of Ilkay and Barkley linking up, pass and move with Lewandowski playing off the shoulder looking for that final ball.
High line, look to press higher up the pitch, When we press, press as a unit. High energy, organisation and aggression, cut off the supply going forward by pressing the space and only allow them to play where we want them to. Man-mark and allow little time on the ball for their more creative based players to dictate or create.
If they look to go more counter attacking, our CDM (Khedira) and Carvajal sit in more than they might. Varane man-marks their ST, we look to get to any 2nd balls quicker than the opposition.
Navas quick off his line and mops up at the back, very alert. Quick and precise with his distribution to ensure we are controlling possession and initiating attacks on the break.
Playing out from the back, we should be quick to bypass their initial phase of pressing, keep it simple but 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.
Gundogan will be the link between mf and attack, B2B. At times maraud and use his burst of energy to get us moving forward, very creative and pivotal to building attacks from deep.
Defensively we transition into a 4-1-4-1 if we lose possession, two banks of four with a solid structure and organisation.
If they advance into dangerous areas or generally past the halfway line, we should look to drop deeper (10 men behind the ball) and crowd them out, press 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 and work as a unit.
Frustrate the opposition with our organisation, stay rigid and allow their attackers little involvement in the game so they have to come deeper to get involved, make them play in front of us and ensure we prevent runs in behind as much as possible.
If we win the ball in higher areas, counter attack with pace. Use the flanks as a base and don't allow them to re-organise, hit them hard on the break using our ST as a target-man.
Wingers today will provide plenty of width, stay wide and make sure we stretch the opposition. Allow the midfielders plenty of options going forward when on the ball through their movement, target their FB’s on a constant basis and get service into the front man from the flanks.
We should actively look for one on one situations in wide areas, have a right go at their backline, penetrate and create holes and always on the run, never standing still. Our FB’s should look to overlap depending on the flank with the other staying back, get the ball in the box with pace to create panic.
When we win the ball in midfield, Barkley is the initiator in attack, get him on the ball and looking for an early release, we need his calm presence and eye for a pass, the base for a counter and feeding the ST’s as much as possible.
Service out from the back, put them off their organisation with diagonal balls over the top into feet, switch the play quickly and allow the attackers to run into space.
Lewandowski strong as an outlet, get our midfield and flankers into the game. Drop deep at times to get involved and dominate the CB's aerially, press from the front.
Subs:
60th minute - If winning - (4-2-3-1)
Guedes > Barkley
Martial > Ousmane
Rigid in defence, further pace going forward looking to stretch the opposition.
70th minute – if draw - (4-3-3)
Fernandinho > Barkley
Martial > Ousmane
Fernandinho sits in a MF 3 allowing Khedira/Gundogan to burst forward, front 3 on the move up top.
74th minute - If losing (4-4-2)
Carroll > Barkley
Martial > Ousmane
4-4-2, two banks of four and looking to attack, very direct, Carroll partners Lewa. Costa and Martial as wingers with support from FB's.
C – Khedira
FK’s – Guerreiro / near - Lewandowski
Corners – Costa
Pens – Lewandowski
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Tactics
Page 38 of 65
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posted on 20/1/17
Arsenal away at Blues
Injuries:
De Sciglio, Chiellini, Kenedy, Niang
………………………………………..Buffon…………………………….
Hysaj………………….Rugani…………Romagnoli………….Gaya
……………………………Wanyama……Marchisio…………………
Berardi………………………….James………………………….Silva
……………………………………..Higuain……………………………..
Subs: Butland, Barzagli,Dier,Herrera,OX,Welbeck, El Shaarawy
Away at blouse is a pretty tough game, but we’ll take it on face on, we need to get back to winning ways to keep an outside shot at Europe alive
No more tinkering for tinkering sakes by Tino Bambino, a straight forward set-up today which I feel is well balanced a young but “proven” defence, a solid pivot, 3 lovely Am’s and a fantastic goal scorer.
I want us to dominate this game so the players at our disposal are comfortable ball players, we’ll hold the lions share of it, and silence the home fans, take the sting out of the game and control proceedings from the front foot. They’re the home team and will look to come to us utilising home advantage but we’re strong enough through the spine to absorb this.
The Defence:
Bags of pace in this back line so we’ll take a nice high line enabling us to press hard and fast when they have the ball…..a dink over the top we’ll hold our own in the sprint, BUT with the high line we can keep simple passing routes open, and dictate the play. Hysaj and Gaya will look to push forward simultaneously as we look to force Brums own FB’s backwards and isolate Blouse’ wingers. Rugs and Roma played together for the Italy U21’s and have both got into the seniors so it’s a ready made partnership.
The Midfield:
Wanyama comes in as our destroyer, solid as a tank he’ll sit on their AM and close him down at source, Marchisio is given the freedom to play as our box-to-box man getting forward to support the attacks as well as getting a foot in defensively.
The 3 AM’s:
Berardi and Silva are not your traditional wingers, they’ll play as inside forwards but with the freedom to drift and interchange, we want them moving Blues’ full-backs all over the shop making themselves much harder to mark, James comes in as a proper #10
Higuain:
A proper goal scorer, will play off the shoulder of the last man, splitting the CB’s and causing mischief when the ball comes in the box there’s not many I’d rather it drop to than him.
Subs 65 mins
Herrera > Wanyama
OX > Berardi
Welbz > Silva
posted on 20/1/17
Hull - Weiser, Biglia, Keita, Werner
Captain: Geis
Penalties: Werner (Driussi)
Free Kicks: Geis
----------------------------Horn
Klostermann---Stark----------Süle------Henrichs
------------------Geis-----------Dahoud
Gnabry----------------Schöpf-------------Forsberg
---------------------------Milik
Subs: Karius, Wimmer, Ascacibar, Gerhardt, Bailey, Óliver, Driussi
Our defensive unit consists of Niklas Stark and Niklas Süle paired up at centre-back, Benjamin Henrichs at left-back and Lukas Klostermann at right-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 Serge Gnabry, Alessandro Schöpf and Emil Forsberg as our band of three attacking midfielders with Arkadiusz Milik 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.
Henrichs and Klostermann 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 Serge Gnabry and Emil Forsberg, 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 Gnabry, Forsberg or Milik in via fast passing combinations.
Milik is predominantly an old-style centre forward, however he does possess the technical qualities and versatility to shine in this game. He’ll be physically imposing and not only will he be a threat in the air, but he can also score via great volleys. We’ll look towards his wonderful finishing and passing ability and he’ll also display good positioning and teamwork, and won’t be afraid to help his team defend.
Sub 70 Mins: Gerhardt 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: Driussi on for Milik
Driussi is an all-round centre forward, and with 10 minutes left to go he’s our man to go to for a late goal that could make all of the difference to our result.
let’s take a punt that it’ll be the other team nah if Horn gets sent off I’ll take off Milik (Driussi) for Karius and become a bit toothless. If any other player gets sent off then we’ll just look to tighten ranks.
posted on 20/1/17
sorry penalty taker is Milik not Werner!!
posted on 21/1/17
--------------------Patricio
Gaspar-----Pepe------Godin-----Bertrand
----------Casemiro-------Pjanic
Di Maria-------------Ozil-----------Firmino
--------------------Suarez
Subs
Ward, Hummels, Clyne, Nainggolan, Salah, Brandt, Lemar
Patricio 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, Di Maria flits around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Casemiro 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. Pjanic 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 - Radja 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 - Brandt for Firmino and Salah for Di Maria - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Radja for Casemiro - Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
70 Mins - Lemar, Hummels and Radja for Bertrand, Casemiro and Gaspar - 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 21/1/17
————————————Cech
—————Manolas———N.Ake———B.Davies
Walker—————-Florenzi———Allen—————D.Rose
—————Hamsik—————————Mertens
————————————Fekir
Subs: Zieler, Lichtsteiner, Neny, Moutinho, Joao Mario, Shaqiri, Rashford.
Captain: Petr Cech
Free Kicks: Joe Allen/Dries Mertens
Corners: Marek Hamsik/Joe Allen
Penalties: Dries Mertens
Up against an out of position Arsenall side who will be very strong but its time for a new manager and some less guns ho tactics that with any luck will make us more solid at the back and give us more of a foothold in the midfield to try and get some goals.
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, Hamsik with more responsibility so Mertens can focus on getting close to Fekir. 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 remaining Arsenal defenders, looking to transition quickly before the Arsenal midfield can form a block. As previously stated we stay as a group to make it compact, with Florenzi and Allen looking to use this to their advantage, it allows them to work in tandem to slow Arsenal’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 Hamsik 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 Manolas/Davies 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 Ake 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 Ake as a sweeper to deal with the central striker’s movement in behind, looking to mark him out of the game, always putting his body in the way. With this system of defending in mind when Arsenal have the ball deeper we will look to press them into going wide as we can use our wing backs to good effect when we win the ball back, stretch the game and opening up room for the forwards.
If Arsenal do 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, Florenzi and Allen 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 Arsenal 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, Hamsik and Mertens will drop in closer to the CMs and we will simply shut up shop and wait for the ball back.
Like previously said the teams 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. Manolas and N.Ake will stretch out slightly so that there are no big gaps left by the WBs pushing up, with Florenzi and Allen 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. Allen and Florenzi keep the game ticking looking to use their creativity to transition the ball quickly, with one at a time having licence to join the front 3 and make it a 4. 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, Walker look to use his direct running and pace and movement to get in behind their defence. Rose 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 Hamsik 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 Mertens and Fekir the freedom to hurt Arsenal’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 Mertens or Fekir 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: Neny for Allen 70’ more defensive runner. Moutinho for Martens 75’. Lichtesteiner for Walker 85’.
If Drawing: Moutinho for Allen 70’. Rashford for Fekir 75’. Joao Mario for Florenzi 80’.
If Losing: Rashford for Davies 60’, 4-3-3, Hamsik into midfield. Moutinho for Allen 70’. Shaqiri for Florenzi 75’ 4-2-4.
posted on 21/1/17
Spurs v STOKE
Line up:
Perin
Sidibe Marquinhos Koscielny Coentrao
Fabinho
Mkhitaryan Fabregas Wilshere Ribery
Ibrahimovic
Substitutes: Rulli; Jedvaj; Cuadrado; Koziello; Pjaca; Belotti; Bacca
Captain: Ibrahimovic
Penalties: Ibrahimovic
Corners: Fabregas
Free Kicks: Ribery
Game Plan:
The idea with this 4-1-4-1 formation is to use our superior technique and passing ability to control the tempo of the game and keep Spurs on the back foot.
The formation we are lining up in facilitates our intention to play out from the back and build up at our own pace, using neat triangles and clever movement to keep Spurs away from the ball and to invite them to tire themselves out chasing shadows.
The sole defensive midfielder plays an important role in this formation. Given that he is the sole defensive shield (unlike in a two-man midfield) he must ensure that he’s always well-positioned and not too advanced, while at the same time being able to receive passes from the wide men. The two midfield players are also key, as their sense of positioning will change the flow of the game. If they’re too deep too soon, the tempo will be slow whereas if they’re too advanced they will be unable to contribute to the team’s offensive play.
The back four, too, play an important role in our attack as they must collect the ball from deep, spreading out across the entire width of the pitch, and keep calm in passing in to space and allowing Spurs to come forward on the press from where we can poke holes in their formation.
The two full backs are very good on the ball and attack minded and they will operate in a similar fashion to how Rafinha and Alaba operated in Guardiola's Bayern, pushing in to practically half back roles and influencing the possession game from a more central position.
Further up the pitch, Mkhitaryan has been chosen for the right flank due to Pedro’s injury and his pace and talent for playmaking, but also his industrious work ethic, which will come in to effect when we are out of possession.
In the centre of the pitch, Wilshere will be tasked with playing the box to box role, getting stuck in defensively to alleviate the pressure from Fabinho and the defence, and getting involved in the attacks by driving forward with the ball. Wilshere’s engine and exuberance will free space for Fabregas to operate in the pocket, dictating the tempo of the game and looking to unlock Spurs’ tough defence.
Ribery will operate more as an inside forward, coming in from the left flank and playing off knock downs and flick ons from Ibrahimovic. He will be looking to create opportunities from inside, with Coentrao and Wilshere moving in to space on the overlap. From this area, Ribery will be able to play in Mkhi and Ibra or dribble his way to a goalscoring opportunity.
Ibrahimovic is given a free role to influence the game in any way that he can. Ibra is a big man with great control and a fast mind and he will constantly keep the Spurs defence guessing - he can score from anywhere on the pitch and we will be expecting him to grab some goals today.
A key part of our game plan today is that we keep the ball on the deck and dictate how the game is played. We can't allow Spurs to press and unsettle us and we don't want to resort to pumping long hopeful balls as they will be gobbled up by the opposition defence more often than not.
Our defence relies solely on Barcelona's 6 second pressing rule, as usual. The idea is to win the ball back quickly by committing numbers to the press, surrounding the ball carrier and limiting the number of options that he has, thus increasing our chances of winning the ball back.
If this fails in the, roughly, 6 seconds, then we must fall back and tightly pack our defence, waiting for the next opportunity to press in numbers rather than wasting energy.
The idea of pressing is to put pressure on the ball with the intention of winning it back off of the opposition. By forcing the opposition to complete an action in a pressured atmosphere, every aspect of that action is made more difficult. An action consists of both a decision and the execution of that decision – if these two aspects can be manipulated correctly, the opponent will lose the ball and we will regain possession.
Substitutions:
70 minutes: Cuadrado for Ribery - Given his ageing legs, we will bring on Cuadrado to run the line on the left. His pace and energy will make for a tough time defensively on Spurs’ right flank and more assurance on our left.
75 minutes: Koziello for Wilshere - A high action game for Wilshere will leave him out of breath so we will bring on our young tenacious midfielder to play the same game as his predecessor.
80 minutes: Pjaca for Mkhitaryan - Another cameo for the young winger to show what he can do.
posted on 21/1/17
---------------------- Neuer ------------------
Carvajal ------ Bartra -- Laporte ---- Guerreiro
------ Rabiot ----- Gundogan -- Matuidi
Costa ----------- Lewandowski ---------- Dembele
Subs: Navas, Alves, Tah, Fernandinho, Coman, Martial, Morata
4-3-3, aim to dominate the mf today as we feel that is Hull's weakest area, very possession based as we play at a high tempo looking to get the front 3 in as much as possible stretching them with our pace and movement.
Look to control the game, as we advance our passing gets quicker and more direct. We look for avenues towards the flanks to create holes, wingers switch flanks to mix it up, fb’s overlap, runners from deep and service into the box.
High line, look to press higher up the pitch, quick on our feet as we look to narrow the options of any pass going forward, intensive pressing in mf and box them in with our attackers if they look to play out from the back.
When we press, press as a unit. High energy, organisation and aggression, cut off the supply by pressing the space and only allow them to play where we want them to. Man-mark and allow little time on the ball for their more creative based players to dictate or create.
If they look to go more counter attacking, our CDM (Rabiot) and Carvajal sit in more than they might. Bartra man-marks their ST, we look to get to any 2nd balls quicker than the opposition.
Neuer quick off his line and mops up at the back, one of the best at operating in a system where we press higher up so will be alert to any danger and ensure we are controlling possession through his distribution.
Playing out from the back, we should be quick to bypass their initial phase of pressing, keep it simple but 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.
Matuidi being the box to box engine he is, will be the link between mf and attack. At times maraud and use his burst of energy to get us moving forward, also very physical and getting in their faces off the ball.
I want us very direct and moving the ball at a quick pace, creating as many lines as possible in midfield. Movement is essential as we look to create holes in the opposition backline, ensure there is plenty of width on offer and link up with fluidity, snappy passes into feet, quick one two's and first time balls beyond their backline.
Defensively we transition into a 4-1-4-1 if we lose possession, two banks of four with a solid structure and organisation.
If they advance into dangerous areas or generally past the halfway line, we should look to drop deeper (10 men behind the ball) and crowd them out, press 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 and work as a unit.
Frustrate the opposition with our organisation, stay rigid and allow their attackers little involvement in the game so they have to come deeper to get involved, make them play in front of us and ensure we prevent runs in behind as much as possible.
If we win the ball in higher areas, counter attack with pace. Use the flanks as a base and don't allow them to re-organise, hit them hard on the break using our ST as a target-man.
In attack we need to create as many lines as possible in midfield to counter their press, 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.
Wingers today will provide plenty of width, stay wide and make sure we stretch the opposition. Allow the midfielders plenty of options going forward when on the ball through their movement, target their FB’s on a constant basis and get service into the front man from the flanks.
We should actively look for one on one situations in wide areas, have a right go at their backline, penetrate and create holes and always on the run, never standing still. Our FB’s should look to overlap depending on the flank with the other staying back, get the ball in the box with pace to create panic.
When we win the ball in midfield, Gundogan is the initiator in attack, get him on the ball and looking for an early release, we need his calm presence and eye for a pass, the base for a counter and feeding the ST’s as much as possible.
Service out from the back, put them off their organisation with diagonal balls over the top into feet, switch the play quickly and allow the attackers to run into space.
Lewandowski strong as an outlet, get our midfield and flankers into the game. Drop deep at times to get involved and dominate the CB's aerially, press from the front.
Subs:
68th minute - If winning - (4-3-3)
Fernandinho > Rabiot
Martial > Dembele
Like for like, stay compact defensively and hit them on the break if they flood forward.
74th minute – if draw - (4-5-1)
Martial > Dembele
Morata > Lewandowski
Fernandinho > Rabiot
Create as many lines as possible, fresh faces in attack, rigid in defence and look to to move the ball around with pace looking to target gaps.
74th minute - If losing (4-4-2)
Morata > Rabiot
Coman > Dembele
Alves > Carvajal
4-4-2, two banks of four and looking to attack, very direct, Morata partners Lewa. Costa and Coman as wingers with support from FB's.
C – Neuer
FK’s – Gundogan / near - Lewandowski
Corners – Gundogan
Pens – Lewandowski
Red card (4-4-1)
Matuidi off, 2 banks of four with men behind the ball and break with pace.
DF – Matuidi off, Alves/Tah on/ 4-4-1
CM’s – no change, change formation/ 4-4-1
WG/s – Matuidi off/ Coman (RW)/Martial (LW) on/ 4-4-1
ST – Matuidi off/ Morata on/ 4-4-1
posted on 21/1/17
———————————Courtois
Azpilicueta———Bailly——————Koulibaly———Marcelo
————————————Allan
———————Rakitic——————Koke
———————————Coutinho
—Carrasco————————————————Griezmann
Subs: Bravo, Aurier, Danilo, Jorginho, V.Moses, I.Williams, J.Hernandez
Captain: Koke
Free Kicks: Philippe Coutinho/Ivan Rakitic
Penalties: Antoine Griezmann
Corners: Koke/Ivan Rakitic
Huge game so we are going with a different tact to try and surprise them and gain an advantage with high pressing a 4-3-3/5-3-2 hybrid that targets the gaps between FB and CBs where Leicester will be most vulnerable.
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 we are pressing as a 4-3-3 and if we are in our half we are back to 5-3-2. Our biggest tweak this week is to use two wide forwards when we press, so that we push Griezmann and Carrasco onto their FBs to stop them becoming an outlet and to also make sure they are forced to stay back in more defensive positions. Coutinho will look to press the deep midfielder then, always in his face stopping him dictating the game, instead leaving the CBs unmarked and covering all their passing options so they have to play their team mates into danger. Behind the three we have what will be a 3 man midfield when we press, Koke and Rakitic both very tenacious and hard working looking to combat the oppositions box to box/attacking midfielders, going man to man, if we win this battle we can dominate the game. Allan is behind as a shield, looking to cut off the passing options into the CF and the wide men, basically positioning himself in line with the play and mopping up loose balls, which leaves a back 4, FBs tight to their wingers and CBs smothering the CF. Just like this we place a blanket over their entire team and force them into uncomfortable positions where we can work hard win the ball and attack them. If we are forced much deeper we revert to the usual 5-3-2 with Allan dropping into CB and Coutinho into midfield, the two forwards stay in the wide areas so the opposition FBs are too occupied to go forward, they can't risk leaving our two strikers alone as their pace is too much, which allows our FB and wide CBs to double up on their wide attacking players, Hazard for example with Azpi going 1 v 1 and Bailly covering.
We look to vary our attacking play today, with our two big weapons being the forwards pace and our midfielders passing ability. We can go for the fast free flowing football option so that when we win it we use the passing ability of Rakitic and Koke to cut them open. In these attacks, Allan drops in to CB to give us a back three, allowing Azpilicueta and Marcelo to push on and play as WBs, Marcelo with his great technical ability, and Azpilicueta with his running to the byline and crosses. When we win the ball, the opposition CBs will be panicking, looking who to pick up, with no one in a usual CF position, we look to take advantage of any organisation issues this costs by having one of the wide forwards stretch out to the touchline and one in the gap between CB and FB, we send the ball out to the stretch flank, doubling up with WB and WF to hurt their FBs, with Coutinho coming towards the play to play in the half spaces, looking to get unmarked and in position to pick his passes, dragging their DM out of positions also opens up more room for Rakitic and Koke who step forward and take control of the game. The aim then is to either shuffle the ball across quickly and find a pass to the opposite forward will look to run in behind with his pace, or alternatively we attack the FB, get out to the byeline and have the other forward coming central, forcing a CB to pick him up and allowing the WB and a Cm to attack the box, getting 4 in with Coutinho too for a ball in. Plan B is for if Allan, Koke, Rakitic or Coutinho to find themselves with some room to play a longer diagonal pass, looking to immediately release a WF between defenders and get them running in behind. Carrasco and Griezmann are so tricky on the ball they should be able to beat their men for pace and skill and drag the team forward with them.
Subs:
If Winning: I.Williams for Carrasco 70’, fresh legs and blistering pace to keep Leicester’s defenders pegged back. Aurier for Coutinho 75’, 5-3-2 with Azpi into CB, Williams and Griezmann will play narrow in order to keep the midfield packed, leave no space to break into. Danilo for Koke 80’, more defensive cover.
If Drawing: Williams for Carrasco 70’, faster runner to get in behind. Hernandez for Coutinho 75’, he plays further forward that Coutinho, looking to get into space in the box. Aurier for Azpilicueta 80’, look to push further on with his powerful running.
If Losing: Moses for Allan 60’, 3-4-3. Hernandez for Carrasco 70’, get into the box to poach goals.Williams for Marcelo 80’
posted on 21/1/17
Aston Villa v WOLVES
Injuries: Vrsaljko, Monreal, Bentaleb, Antonio
Ineligible: Kondogbia
Ter Stegen
De Vrij - Fonte - Howedes
De Marcos - Cazorla - Schneiderlin - Baba
Mata - Rooney
Lukaku
Subs: Begovic, Cahill, Schweinsteiger, Fraser, Bernardeschi, Schurrle, Long
-----------------
Big game today, going to try and get a positive result even though Villa are a very good side especially at home.
Going full strength today, taking no chances as Villa are a very good side and we want to make sure we get as good a result as we can. Ter Stegen in goal, back three of De Vrij, Fonte and Howedes, De Marcos and Baba Rahman in the wingback roles, Cazorla and Schneiderlin patrolling the midfield, with Mata and Rooney supporting Lukaku.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting through today. Villa 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 three with assistance from the wingbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a duo who can dictate the game in Cazorla and Schneiderlin, with Mata and Rooney ahead of them, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. De Marcos and Baba will get forward at times and 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.
De Vrij/Fonte/Howedes - Howedes to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, De Vrij and Fonte to be the spare men, be first to the second ball and their second striker/AM making runs from midfield. If they play two strikers Fonte pick up the second striker and De Vrij to be the spare man. 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. Two of you go forward for setpieces.
De Marcos/Baba Rahman - Both of you to force the Spurs 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 five with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Mata/Rooney 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. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Cazorla/Schneiderlin - Schneiderlin to focus on their AM and man mark him, Cazorla to stay in front of the back five and ensure any Midfielders breaking from deep, or wingers cutting infield are taken care of, while dictating possession from deep. In possession look for Mata/Rooney/Lukaku, or the wingbacks getting forward.
Mata/Rooney - Both of you to burst forward to join the Lukaku as our AM's, look to receive the ball and run at the Villa defence, bring the ball to create space for others and look for the runs of Lukaku. Shoot if you get into position, also force the Villa 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 5-4-1. Get behind Lukaku on occasion.
Lukaku - you will be expected to occupy the Villa 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 or drawing: Rooney and Mata off, Bernardeschi and Schurrle on. Bernardeschi to RM, Schurrle to LM and form a 5-4-1, but use your fresh legs to get at the overcommitting Villa defence.
If losing: De Vrij and Schneiderlin off, Bernardeschi and Schurrle on. Change to a 4-1-3-2 with De Marcos - Fonte - Howedes - Baba, Cazorla the playmaker, Bernardeschi - Mata - Schurrle behind Lukaku and Rooney. Push for goals.
posted on 21/1/17
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
24. Bellerin — 2. Alderweireld — 3. Benatia — 6. Sandro
————— 34. Coquelin —— 29. Xhaka
8. Lamela ————— 17. KDB ————— 11. Reus
———————————— 9. Benzema
SUBS: 31. Chesney, 15. Savic, 16. De Rossi, 23. Eriksen, 14. Plea, 22. Mor, 19. Falcao
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 Lamela coming into the side bringing his creativity with him, helping to dominate the midfield against a strong midfield, taking control with his dynamism especially when providing a threat from wide. 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 Alderweireld Xhaka and Coquelin will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. Xhaka and Coquelin will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line while Alderweireld 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 Bellerin 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 Coquelin are our second line of defence and attack, by playing two deeper lying players they can rotate, one of them will always be available for the ball when we're in possession and both are able to launch attacks quickly due to their passing ability, defensively they are to watch runs from the opposition midfield who will be dangerous, both are very tactically educated and comfortable playing this way. Xhaka will be tasked with pushing the team forwards in the attacking phase and arriving late in the box.
Our attacking midfield trio are absolutely crucial to the way we want to attack, KDB is somewhat free of defensive responsibility unless under pressure as both Lamela 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 Lamela 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.
Benzema will play as the centre forward, his reactions 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 KDB, Lamela and Reus to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on De Rossi for KDB. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.
If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Eriksen for Coquelin. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Xhaka will drop back to DM to control the game while Eriksen and KDB will dominate from behind Reus as well as adding an extra goal threat in a 4-1-4-1. Lamela on right and Reus to the left.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Falcao for KDB. Attacking 4-4-2 with Xhaka and Eriksen in the middle and Lamela on the right Reus on the left. Falcao and Benzema up front.
posted on 22/1/17
Leicester v Liverpool
Balanced 4-3-3
Away from home, we go with a balanced side but one we think can dominate possession and control the game. The opposition like to go 4-4-2, we go with 3 in the middle, with the extra man looking to win the midfield battle. 3 cm with great work rates.
Up top Ronaldo slots in to his favoured LW position, on the other side we go with Hazard who offers a real threat. Costa as well offers someone who will press from the front, giving freedom for Ronaldo to be at his best. Can on the left side, adding cover for Ronaldo.
We go with a hardworking team but with cbs and a cm trio that are all confident on the ball. We want to get the best out of Costa and Ronaldo.
Importantly we have a cm trio that are all strong on the ball. Going forward Can will tend to be the dm, sitting and offering cover against Villa who will likely have two strikers. The cm trio though are fluid, if the break is on the deepest sits.
The cm 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.
The two wingers have freedom to play central in the final third. In the first two thirds we want to keep them wide, test their fbs defensively.
With great movement in our midfield, and one fb bombing forward we’ll drag their players out of position, getting our midfielders on the ball to create the chances. After Liverpool 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.
--------------- Handanovic
Danilo - Otamendi – J.Martinez - Ghoulam
--------- Kroos – Kampl - E.Can
Hazard ------------------------ C.Ronaldo
------------------ D.Costa
Subs. Schmeichel, Rafael, Borthwick-Jackson, Nzonzi, Correa, Pereyra, Jese
Key to our attack is quick attacking play on the ball and when moving on. Varying our play and how we get the ball to our wingers/Costa quickly.
Defence
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 Ronaldo and Costa gets behind the ball into position. Stop them breaking.
In a deep, narrow, rigid formation, in two lines of four, 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. Can sits in front, when we’re attacking we always have 3 defenders with the dm in front, offering plenty of defensive cover.
As Villa advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-4-2. Hazard will drop in to a more defensive position, and Can fills in defensively on the left. We defend narrow if their fbs aren’t attacking, the midfielder on that side comes inside.
In the centre, Kampl presses the ball with Kroos dropping deep to cover. Likely one of their cms will be sitting deep covering, so one of Ronaldo or Costa will simply sit on him, take him out the game.
The winger opposite to the play coming narrow and deep next to him providing a further wall in between those pressing and the back four. Narrowing the play to the side 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 Kroos 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.
The cm trio look to control the play for us.
Javi has freedom to play long balls, over the top for our attackers, direct to Ronaldo or Costa. Stretch their team. If their defence drops deeper it gives us the ability to push up and dominate the game, if they keep a high line we can continue to try get in behind and find our attackers in space.
In possession, the defence push up playing a reasonably high line as all are comfortable in possession and have great pace with a dm offering further cover in front. The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, starting our attacks from the back.
The midfield should never be flat. The cm trio will look to pass the ball in triangles, always looking to go on further and provide another passing option.
Two of the cm trio have freedom to get forward at a time and look for space between their defence and midfield. One will look to get in the box when we’re getting balls in, the other hangs slightly further back, a few yards from the edge of the penalty box back, looking to get on any loose balls.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. The cms 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 and Ronaldo have freedom to play their natural game.
Substitutions:
70 minutes: Nzonzi for Kampl - Having Nzonzi to hold and spread the play around allows Kroos and Can to be more adventurous themselves, making use of their high levels of stamina.
75 minutes: Correa for Hazard - The young winger/forward always provides a threat when he's on the pitch and his ability to put a shift in defensively is not to be underestimated.
80 minutes: Pereyra for Can - A very tricky player to keep under wraps, Pereyra's acceleration and boundless energy could provide the spark required to seal the victory late on in this game.
posted on 22/1/17
--------------------------Leno--------------------
---Juanfran---Mussachio---Sokratis---Milner---
------------------Verratti------Dembele------------
----Candreva---------Lallana---------Draxler-----
-------------------------Cavani----------------------
Subs: Zoet, Tete, Bernat, Bakayoko, Banega, Mandzukic, Sanabria.
Looking to be a real tough home game against Newcastle, but our game plan is to go toe to toe with them and look to put as much pressure on them as we can. We know we have the quality to hurt them, but it's about showing that now at the crucial time to help us pick up as many points as we can in this relegation fight.
Our defence will be a nice rigid back 4 that will be organised and constructed by Leno. Milner in at LB as Newcastle usually like to play with Inside forwards on either/both flanks so that could be showing him inside onto his stronger right foot. If not, both full backs track the wide men inside at all costs. Sokratis picking up the main man with Mussachio in close attention being the "spare" defender in this case looking to sweep in behind everything. Our wingers Candreva and Draxler will also do their defensive duties, coming in and supporting our full backs wherever possible and looking to cut off the supply to the wide men as well be being wary of the full backs bombing on. As Newcastle don't usually play with an AM because their wingers will come inside, our full backs track the wingers, wingers will track the full backs and now we will have Verratti, Dembele and Lallana pressing the 2 middle men who will be more advanced. They will press them hard and because it will be a 3vs2 in our favour in the midfield, we should have always have that "spare" man in midfield to help cover the space. Cavani will be the one to press their DM when he is on the ball so he doesn't have too much time to pick passes and dictate the play.
Should we win the ball back, we will break quickly with short passes and we build up our attacks and try to force their players out of position quickly. We will also look to break forward using our wingers and full backs as well and stretch the play. As their wide men will be inside forwards, there is space to exploit down the flanks to get into a 2v1 with their full backs if we can.
When we go forward we push our full backs on to support our wingers and we look to use width to stretch the game as often as possible. Verratti will play in between the CB's as those 3 look to build our attacks from the back and feed it into more attacking or wide areas. Dembele acts as the link in midfield, with the ability to drive forward with speed and power and good passing ability, his all round attacking game needs to be good in midfield and he as to pick up space when he can. Lallana as well will be looking to pick up little pockets of space in the midfield when he can and really moving the midfield about, looking to thread little balls through their defence when he can. Our wingers and full backs are important as to how we attack. Juanfran and Milner will look to support Candreva and Draxler on each side. Milner and Draxler will look to cut inside onto their stronger feet respectively to put a better angle for a cross or open up more space in and around the edge of the box to link with other players. Candreva and Juanfran will both hug the touchline and Juanfran will run beyond Candreva to the byline and look to whip crosses in from there and they will look to make it a 2v2 down the flanks and make some space and really whip some dangerous crosses into the box when possible. Cavani will look to attack every cross he can and out crosses aimed for the near post so Cavani can run across the defender and look to flick it on into dangerous areas or towards goal. His movement has to be key, looking to peal away from the defenders whenever he can and then finding the finishes as well as looking for that space in and around the box.
Subs:
Bakayoko > Dembele, 75 mins
Mandzukic > Cavani, 80 mins
posted on 25/1/17
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
24. Bellerin — 2. Alderweireld — 3. Benatia — 6. Sandro
————— 16. De Rossi —— 29. Xhaka
8. Lamela ————— 17. KDB ————— 11. Reus
———————————— 9. Benzema
SUBS: 31. Chesney, 15. Savic, 14. Oriol Romeu, 23. Eriksen, 14. Plea, 7. Bernardo, 19. Falcao
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 Lamela coming into the side bringing his creativity with him, helping to dominate the midfield against a strong midfield, taking control with his dynamism especially when providing a threat from wide. Lamela will also make is more solid with his tracking back. 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 Alderweireld Xhaka and DDR will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. Xhaka and DDR will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line while Alderweireld 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 Bellerin 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 DDR are our second line of defence and attack, by playing two deeper lying players they can rotate, one of them will always be available for the ball when we're in possession and both are able to launch attacks quickly due to their passing ability, defensively they are to watch runs from the opposition midfield who will be dangerous, both are very tactically educated and comfortable playing this way. Xhaka will be tasked with pushing the team forwards in the attacking phase and arriving late in the box.
Our attacking midfield trio are absolutely crucial to the way we want to attack, KDB is somewhat free of defensive responsibility unless under pressure as both Lamela 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 Lamela 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.
Benzema will play as the centre forward, his reactions 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 KDB, Lamela and Reus to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on Romeu for KDB. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.
If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Eriksen for DDR. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Xhaka will drop back to DM to control the game while Eriksen and KDB will dominate from behind Reus as well as adding an extra goal threat in a 4-1-4-1. Lamela on right and Reus to the left.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Falcao for KDB. Attacking 4-4-2 with Xhaka and Eriksen in the middle and Lamela on the right Reus on the left. Falcao and Benzema up front.
posted on 25/1/17
For cup
posted on 25/1/17
League Cup semi final second leg
WOLVES (0) v Spurs (1)
Injuries: Long, Ter Stegen, Cahill, Gustavo
----------------------Begovic
Vrsaljko - Fonte - Howedes - Monreal
--------------------Kondogbia
-------------Cazorla - H.Herrera
------------------------Mata
---------------Lukaku - Rooney
Subs: Semper, De Vrij, Schneiderlin, Bernardeschi, Lanzini, Embolo, Fraser
-----------------
Big game in the cup, need to overturn a 1-0 defecit against Spurs. We will be going with the plan of dominating and congesting the midfield we aim to give ourselves the best possible chance of success today.
Going full strength today, taking no chances as Spurs are a very good side and we want to make sure we get to the final. Begovic in goal, Vrsaljko, Fonte, Howedes and Monreal in defence, Kondogbia at the bottom of the diamond, Cazorla and H.Herrera in central midfield, Mata at the tip of the diamond behind Lukaku and Rooney upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting through today. Spurs 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 trio who can dictate the game in Kondogbia, Cazorla and H.Herrera, with Mata ahead of them, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Vrsaljko and Monreal will overlap and get crosses in. 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, with Rooney a proven matchwinner up alongside him to give us the best chance of scoring the goals we need to progress.
Begovic - 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.
Fonte/Howedes - Howedes to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Fonte 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 Kondogbia 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.
Vrsaljko/Monreal - Both of you to force the Spurs 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 to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Lukaku/Rooney, and link with Cazorla/H.Herrera/Mata. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Kondogbia - Playing the DM role to keep things tight, you will be expected to mark their AM but don't follow him out wide. Cover any runs from their Midfielders. When on the ball look for Cazorla/H.Herrera/Mata.
Cazorla/H.Herrera - Both of you playing box to box playmaker roles, without the ball support Kondogbia/Vrsaljko/Monreal in dealing with the Spurs attack, but in possession bring the ball forward, look to supply the front three and look for the fullbacks overlapping you and providing width. Their runs should also give you space to run into with or without the ball. Shoot if the opportunity arises.
Mata - Mata to burst forward to join the front two as our AM, look to receive the ball and run at the Spurs defence, bring the ball to create space for others and look for the runs of Rooney/Lukaku. Shoot if you get into position, also force the Spurs defenders to foul you when you're attacking as we can be lethal from setpieces. Link with Lukaku and Rooney regularly. Drift out wide on occasion to create space for others. Essentially a free role as there will be 7 outfield players behind you doing the dirty work. Your job today is to score or create.
Lukaku/Rooney - Lukaku will be expected to occupy the Spurs 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. Rooney will be the second striker, drift left or right of Lukaku to create space, make the late run into the area to keep the defence guessing, and use your physicality with Big Rom to cause twice as many problems for their centrebacks. Be our matchwinner today. Big match Wayne.
------------------
Subs 75 mins:
If winning by 2 or more goals: Mata and Rooney off, Bernardeschi and Fraser on. Switch to a flat 4-5-1 with Bernardeschi at RW and Fraser at LW. Look to hit Spurs on the break when they overcommit.
If winning by 1 goal: Mata and Rooney off, Lanzini and Embolo on. Same system, Lanzini to AM, Embolo alongside Lukaku upfront. Fresh legs with pace and power to get at the tiring Spurs defence and force the winner.
If drawing or losing: Vrsaljko, Kondogbia and H.Herrera off, Bernardeschi, Fraser and Embolo on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, back three of Fonte, Howedes and Monreal, Cazorla the playmaker, Bernardeschi - Rooney - Mata - Fraser behind a front two of Embolo and Lukaku. Push for goals.
posted on 25/1/17
comment by Marty McFud (U19588)
posted 5 days ago
-------------------Forster---------------------
Cedric----van Dijk----Kompany---Kolarov
--------------Kante-----Matic----------------
Mahrez-----------Gotze-------------Willian
------------------Lacazette-------------------
Pickford, Valencia, B.Mendy, Prowse, Gelson, Dembele, Llorente
Forster behind the back four which is a solid defensive unit this defence has probably been as good as any in the league and we aim to keep it this way today, 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, Forster is a huge frame and dominates his area against the opposition.
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. Both go up for corners and free kicks as they are both very dangerous in the opposition box. Matic sits in with the fullabacks when they go forward.
Cedric 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. In this game we are obviously going to be up against top class players so our fullbacks must time there runs forward and not just do it for the sake of it. We MUST hold a strong line at the back to stop them breaking through and in on Forster.
We are going to look and play a compact midfield to reduce the time they have on the ball. Kante and Matic do this and will be sitting in with either making the occassional run forward, one of them must sit in at all times.Kante 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 wingers/Gotze. 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. Kante doesn't let anything go and will be at their players at all times, he has endless energy and wont give up, so as Matic takes care of the AM Kante will be at the heals of every one else in possession in the middle of the park.
Mahrez and Willian will play with freedom to attack and support Gotze 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 Cedric and Kolarov. When we defend this a flat bank of 4 with Gotze just a little further forward. 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. Both Willian and Mahrez are also very good in front of goal so if an opportunity arises then they have freedom to go for goal.
Gotze 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 also 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 Gotze 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 -Virgil van Dijk
Penalties - A.Lacazette
Free Kicks - Mario Gotze
Corners - Mario Gotze
Subbstitutes
If we a re losing, bring Valenica on for Cedric, he is a more attacking right back on 60 minutes, Dembele on for Gotze and he goes up front on 70 minutes with Lacazette and on 80 minutes Gelson will come on for Matic, he will go to the right wing with Mahrez playing a central attacking role.
If we are winning then Prowse will come on for Gotze on 70 minutes and go into central midfield and on 80 minutes Llorente will come on for Lacazette and Valencia for Mahrez at the same time
If we are drawing then Valencia for Mahrez and Prowse for Gotze on 80 minutes and play 451, Dembele for Lacazette on 85 minutes
Penalties
Lacazette
Valencia
Mahrez
Kolarov
Dembele/Llorente
Willian
van Dijk
posted on 25/1/17
Attacking 3-5-2
Inspired by Conte's all action Italian 3-5-2 at the Euros go with a 3 man defence to provide cover for the midfielders and attackers to overload the opposition. At home in the cup we push for the win.
The two strikers provide the first line of pressure, force the opposition to play out wide. Pressing high up the park, in a compact unit we will be able to press the space and make it difficult for Villa to play out of these areas.
Otamendi marks the striker, giving us two spare cbs, who will go wide to mark the winger on the side of play negating the space left behind the pressing wide midfielder.
Up top we give Hazard and Ronaldo complete creative freedom. Verratti and Vidal both offer great grit and fight in cm, but more importantly the trio are all great on the ball as we look to cut through the opposition. Thiago the slightly more attacking of the CM trio.
With two A.Vidals we'll also confuse the opposition and they wont know who to mark.
Going forward we will mix our play at times going long over the top for the pace of our forwards, or one forward dropping deep. The two forwards will both create space and chances for each other, we're confident they can both get the better of their man at times and with one cb being pulled away it can leave them one on one.
The forwards will also have great support coming from the midfield 5.
------------- Handanovic
---- Ramos - Otamendi - Umtiti
A.Vidal - Verrati - A.Vidal - Ghoulam
--------------- Thiago.A
---------- C.Ronaldo - Hazard
Subs. Schmeichel, Danilo, Miranda, Nzonzi, Pastore, L.Sane, D.Costa
Playing with a high tempo we look to hit Villa hard at the start of the match, and at the start of the second half. We have two wide midfielders with great work rates and stamina that will get up and down the park and provide the width in attack, getting crosses in for Ronaldo.
Defence
When we have the ball, the cb on the side of the play goes wide, negating the problem of space behind an attacking wb, by our wide cb being in a position to instinctively cover. It also gives us an easy pass back down the line.
When we lose the ball, the two forwards drop into a central area between the cbs and their deepest cms. Blocking passes in the central channels and forcing them wide. In these areas we press them high up the park and make Villa play into trouble. With the wide midfielder pressing the ball, the forward on that side of play and a cm looking to shut all options. With the other midfielders narrowing behind to cover.
As a compact unit we narrow to the side they are attacking.
When they progress further up to the middle third of the park, we stick in a 3-1-4-2 formation. The midfield four will press in a compact zig zag shape, the cm closest to play will sit deeper, as will the wing back opposite play that has came narrow. Allowing us to cover horizontal and vertical angles on the field, and cover space more effectively. Give them no options to play through.
Behind this four either Verratti or Vidal sits in order to cover. When the opposition play the ball forward to a midfielder we have a player in a position to get tight on him, pressing him so that the opposition player has his back to goal, limiting the passing options. The cbs behind will narrow to the side of play.
When defending in our own third the two wide midfielders drop back to fb positions setting us up in a 5-3-2 formation. Allowing us to have a cb and wide midfielder defending each wing. Defending aggressively in numbers.
Attack
We always leave Hazard and Ronaldo forward. Ronaldo coming back to defend set-pieces/corners. This gives us the opportunity to counter quickly.
If the counter is not on we have great quality in the midfield trio on the ball to create opportunities.
Quick one twos in the opposition half. The midfield look to keep the ball on the deck passing in triangles, triangles that are directed out wide as gaps appear in the opposition formation. Thiago has creative freedom in the opposition half. Quick interchangeable play in the final third, using our strong close control and pace to break through.
And mix things up using Ronaldo's ability to dominate in the air, with crosses from deep.
Subs. If winning after 65 mins bring on Danilo for Aleix Vidal. Like for like, fresh legs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Diego Costa for Ronaldo. Up against tired defenders a fresh Costa is the last thing they'll want to see.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Nzonzi for Verratti. Bring the power.
If drawing after 65 mins bring on Costa for Thiago. Moving to a 3-4-3, Ronaldo left, Hazard right.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Pastore for Aleix Vidal. 4-2-1-3. Pastore no.10. We need two goals. Ramos rb.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Danilo for Umtiti. All out gung ho. 2-4-1-3.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Costa for Verratti. 3-4-3.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Sane for Aleix Vidal and Pastore for Ghoulam. Score some goals.
posted on 26/1/17
----------------------- J.Hart -----------------------
Coleman --- M.Ginter --- L.Perrin --- J.Hector
------- Brozovic -- Strootman -- A.Gomes ------
Phillips ------------- Balotelli ------------ Perotti
Johnstone, Rojo, Cancelo, Rincon, Calhanoglu, Redmond, Icardi
In goal Joe Hart, a good 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.
Ginter beside club captain Loic Perrin, on this occassion Ginter will man mark the CF, he is quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, powerfully built so marking the CF should be no trouble as he has to man up to him most likely to be Vardy so must stick tight to him, this will be his sole purpose today, Stop Vardy or whoever plays up front and we have a chance, will keep him away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Perrin alongside is fantastic in the air, so will mark any other big players that come into our danger area, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger. Both go up for corners and are a huge threat.
Coleman and Hector at fullback, both good defensively and this will be vital against two top wingers we must keep them quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of attacks. They will look to keep them away from shooting areas where is dangerous in any position. Both FBs can attack. One goes the other stays as they look to make an extra man down the flank by overlapping our wingers allowing them to cut inside or play neat one twos to free the wingers up. .
We go with a midfield trio of Brozovic, Gomes and Strootman. Strootman the most defensive out the three so he sits in, not an out an out DM, but they work very hard together as a trio shutting the opposition down, so really if they stay in position whilst they attack it will be a hard task for them to break down. Strootman sits in allowing the other two to attack, Brozovic at times being the furthest forward as Stroots looks to dictate the passage of play from a deeper position (these two will swap roles during the game) and allow the 4 in front to go for goal, they are all good passers and have great vision and technique, they pick up from the back four always keep there heads up and look around before they get the ball, so if they are under pressure they know exactly where to play the quick pass. If they are under pressure from an opponent, shield the ball and pass back to defenders to start again. A very energetic trio and they all get right into the opposition players faces, not nasty players but strong in the tackle and dont give away much. Brozovic or Gomes I want to support Balotelli as much as possible and look to play neat triangles between the wingers to set them free.
Phillips and Perrotti are both aggressive attack minded players, but also good defensively, I want them to have a real go today, drive down the wings using pace and skill to get them beyond the fullbacks. They both have tricks in the locker and will use them as they look to get Icardi and CM's and each other in on goal. Phillips will look to bomb down the line with the support of Coleman and there pace will cause a lot of problems and look to fire in crosses whereas Perrotti will look to use his skill to cut inside and harrass the defence with Gomes, When defending then get back and stop the wingers becoming an attacking threat.
Balotelli up top, he is in fine form, certainly knows where the back of the net is,when he feels like it he is a predator, a natural finisher will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space,our forwards must hit them with pace. Icardi is good in the air and two good feet, can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front four/five will be a threat today we must go for it and keep pace with the league leaders. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Phillips, Perrotti and Coleman
Captain - Perrin
Penalties - Balotelli/Icardi
Free kicks - Brozovic
Corners - Wingers
Subs -
Losing -
65 Mins - go 4231 with Hakan coming on for Gomes and going to No.10
70 Mins - Icardi for Balotelli and Redmond for Coleman
Ginter - Perrin - Hector
Phillips - Brozovic - Stroots - Perrotti
Hakan
Icardi - Redmond
Winning -
70 Mins - Rincon for Gomes he will sit behind the other two as an out an out DM, Icardi for Balotelli
80 Mins - Cancelo for Phillips he plays RM as he and Perrotti sit in a bit 4141
Drawing
70 Mins - Redmond for Perrotti, Icardi for Balotelli, Hakan for Gomes 3 subs to freshen it up
posted on 26/1/17
Arkadiusz Milik (sus)
Alessandro Schöpf
Lukas Ascacibar
Lukas Klostermann
Captain: Geis
Penalties: Werner (Driussi)
Free Kicks: Geis
--------------------------Horn
Weiser---------Elvedi----------Süle------Henrichs
------------------Geis-----------Dahoud
Bailey-----------------Gnabry-------------Forsberg
-------------------------Werner
Subs: Karius, Stark, Wimmer, Biglia, Gerhardt, Keïta, Driussi
Our defensive unit consists of Nico Elvedi and Niklas Süle paired up at centre-back, Mitchell Weiser at right-back and Benjamin Henrichs at left-back, with Johannes Geis and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Geis and Dahoud we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Dahoud can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Geis can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Dahoud’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Dahoud running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Johannes Geis.
A holding midfielder through and through, Geis is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Geis such a talent.
Geis is also our dead ball specialist, so do watch out for his renowned pin-point accuracy.
The attacking unit consists of Leon Bailey, Serge Gnabry and Emil Forsberg 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 Leon Bailey and Emil Forsberg, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Serge Gnabry 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. Gnabry 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 Bailey, Forsberg or Werner in via fast passing combinations.
Very much like his comrades (Bailey, Gnabry & Forsberg), 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: Driussi on for Werner
Driussi is an all-round centre forward, and with 10 minutes left to go he’s our man to go to for a late goal that could make all of the difference to our result.
posted on 27/1/17
-------------------- De Gea --------------------
P.Lahm --- Mustafi --- Bonucci --- Ricardo
----------- Busquets --- L.Modric ------------
Sanchez ---------- Pogba ----------- Neymar
-------------------- Aguero ---------------------
Heaton, Boateng, Kessie, D.Alli, Sterling, G.Jesus, Benteke
In goal De Gea a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, shouting instructions to his defenders. Out very quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.
Bonucci in beside Mustafi on this occassion Mustafi will man mark the CF. Mustafi is quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, powerfully built so marking the CF should be no trouble as he has to man up to him, will keep him away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Bonucci alongside is fantastic in the air, so will mark any other big players that come into our danger area, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger. He too can carry the ball out from defence but we must be careful and only do this when it is possible. Both go up for corners and are a huge threat.
Lahm and Ricardo at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Both are perfect for this as they are both quick . They will look to keep them away from shooting areas where is dangerous in any position. This is a vital clash in this game. They will be up against quality wingers so look to force him away from goal and backwards. I want them to attack when in no danger (one at a time, dont be left exposed)so time these runs perfectly. One sits back a bit and allowing the other to attack, this is keeping a 3 at the back at all times. Their marking abilities are sound, both have good positional sense and very quick, do not make rash desicions and will stay on their feet. Both FBs can attack. When one goes the other stays as they look to make an extra man down the flank for our wingers to cut inside or play neat one twos to free the wingers up as there fullbacks get dragged out of position.
Busquets to stop the AM getting the ball from midfield to the striker, he must be right on top of him looking to close him down at the quickest opportunity, let him dictate play and there striker will get plenty chances, we must not let this happen. So quick and into him, fairly and stop this! Busquets himself will look to dictate from deep as he picks up from the defence and looks to drive us forward with precision passing. Modric v the second most advanced midfielder much the same, but obvs when we have the ball he is allowed to move forward and move into dangerous areas where he is best and force there players back, Modric should have a bit of time to look around him for the pass as he looks to find his team mates with ease, one of the best imo, his vision is top class. Pass and move always look for the return pass. When they have then close down the CM, he will look to ping the ball about so get to him before that opportunity arises. We have put Pogba in a No.10 role or just slightly withdrawn No.10 against there DM he must be strong, Pogba is an all round fantastic midfielder,, however he will look to take the DM on one v one drag him about open up spaces for others to drive into, with the ball at feet look to play quick one twos with those around him so he makes the runs into the box looking for that return ball that will get him in on goal. If the ball is played to him with his back to goal hold it up, draw the foul from the DM, if it doesnt come then look to lay it off, look to play the slide pass into Aguero All three are good all round midfielders, But Busquets i want to sit in the hole with the two either side when defending.
Sanchez and Neymar are known for their creativity, speed, and technical ability and are fearless, explosive attacking midfielders who can change the game with a turn of pace or a dribble. More importantly both scorers of wonderful and important goals. Both technically excellent in limited areas, fast explosive acceleration during the first ten yards. Which more often than not takes them passed defenders and allows them to get into dangerous areas. Always play with there heads up looking for the runs of others to get the ball into there feet. When they have the ball look to stick close to fullbacks and stop them coming forward. Just track the fullbacks and use pace to get back and in around there faces to stop them becoming a threat. Always be looking for Pogba/Modric inside as the four make an awesome quartet attack wise also with Ricardo pushing high up on the left allowing Neymar to cut in alongside or in behind Aguero and a scary proposition for there slow back line
Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front four/five will be a threat today we must go for it and keep pace with the league leaders. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Neymar and Sanchez .Pogba/Fullbacks will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side
Captain - Lahm
Penalties - Pogba
Free kicks - Pogba
Corners - Wingers
Losing
70 Mins - Sterling for Pogba, He goes to RW and Sanchez up front with Aguero 442
80 Mins - Benteke for Aguero, Ricardo to LM, Neymar up top 343, Benteke the focus to bring the other players into the game
Drawing -
70 Mins - Alli for Pogba fresh ideas and energy, good for a goal
80 Mins - Sterling for Sanchez
Winning -
70 Mins - Kessie for Modric, a Kante(esq) type player so runs down the Arsenal midfield allowing no time on the ball
80 Mins - Sterling for Aguero, he goes to LM and Neymar up top, Pogba drop into a CM role beside the other two
posted on 27/1/17
Arsenal vs the Chels
Injuries:
Alessio Romagnoli
Ezequiel Garay
Victor Wanyama
M'Baye Niang
……………………………………………….Buffon…………………………
…………………………Rugani…….Barzagli…..Chiellini………….
Oxlade…………………..Marchisio………..Herrera…………….Gray
…………………………………………….D.Silva……………………………………..
…………………………….Welbeck………………Higuain………………………
Subs: Butland, Dier, Gaya, Valero, Berardi, James, Michy B
Yet again Chelsea are the team to beat, and yet again it’s up to us to try and slow them down in their quest for glory – we’ve played them 5 times already this season, 2 wins each and a draw – incidentally we have both our wins at “The Bridge”
Bit of a change around for us today, we all know that Fan is a 4-2-3-1/4-3-3 loyalist so we’re gonna break that formation down today and really stop Chelsea hitting their groove, they do carry a real threat up-front, BUT they need to get the ball in order for them to be able to hurt us, we’re happy for them to have the ball, let them try and break us, we’ll smash em up on the counter.
Sanchez & Neymar
We all know the threat they bring and Fan will need them to be on it today because a midfield of Biscuits and Modric whilst quality can be gotten at and they won’t be bringing the ball forwards so we can get right at them…anyway, our Wing-backs are not marking the above – they are pushing right up to use their blistering pace to force Chelsea’s full-backs to stay back and defend, we’re cutting off their supply links all over the pitch forcing them to go long. Sanchez and Neymar will be man marked by our RCB and LCB- we don’t go out wide to meet them in space we stay compact let them come inside where we can get numerical overloads and force them down “blind alleys”
Our Defence:
Buffon for me is still one of the absolute best in the business, the fact we’ve lifted him and his Juve defence means we have a solid block, they know each other’s game, and we’ll get the job done, our wide cb’s to watch the wingers cutting in, if they run the line leave them be, we’re happy for crosses to come in…Barzagli will shepherd their striker, stay close and nip in to play man and ball.
The Ox and Gray:
Both having very good seasons, very quick and very direct, not your traditional wing-backs but I don’t need them defensively, their job is to pin Chelsea’s full-backs
Marchisio and Herrera:
2 box to boxers one goes one stays, both have goof technical abilities and thankfully both like to get stuck in…Marchisio knows Pogba well from their Juve days so it’s his job to keep Pogba busy.
Silva:
#10 one of the best in the role at operating between the lines and just finding those gaps to exploit, with 2 strikers in front of him, he’ll have some fun, time the runs into the box and get yourself a goal.
Welbz and Higgy:
A strange duo and not a natural pairing BUT I think it’ll pose Chelsea a few problems, I want Higgy slightly infront of their back line and Welbz running off them..Higuain is a great poacher so when the balls flicked he’ll spin and find space in the box, like he has his whole career, Welbz will use his pace and powerful running to get in behind the defence but take a man away and wide creating more space for Higgy.
Subs 65 mins regardless
James > Silva
Berardi > Welbz
Dier > Herrera
posted on 28/1/17
ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1
———————————— 1. Oblak
24. Bellerin — 2. Alderweireld — 3. Benatia — 6. Sandro
————— 16. De Rossi —— 29. Xhaka
8. Lamela ————— 17. KDB ————— 11. Reus
———————————— 9. Benzema
SUBS: 31. Chesney, 15. Inigo, 14. Oriol Romeu, 23. Eriksen, 14. Plea, 7. Bernardo, 19. Falcao
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 Lamela coming into the side bringing his creativity with him, helping to dominate the midfield against a strong midfield, taking control with his dynamism especially when providing a threat from wide. Lamela will also make is more solid with his tracking back. 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 Alderweireld Xhaka and DDR will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. Xhaka and DDR will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line while Alderweireld 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 Bellerin 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 DDR are our second line of defence and attack, by playing two deeper lying players they can rotate, one of them will always be available for the ball when we're in possession and both are able to launch attacks quickly due to their passing ability, defensively they are to watch runs from the opposition midfield who will be dangerous, both are very tactically educated and comfortable playing this way. Xhaka will be tasked with pushing the team forwards in the attacking phase and arriving late in the box.
Our attacking midfield trio are absolutely crucial to the way we want to attack, KDB is somewhat free of defensive responsibility unless under pressure as both Lamela 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 Lamela 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.
Benzema will play as the centre forward, his reactions 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 KDB, Lamela and Reus to create and take chances.
SUBS:
If winning after 75 mins bring on Romeu for KDB. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.
If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Eriksen for DDR. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Xhaka will drop back to DM to control the game while Eriksen and KDB will dominate from behind Reus as well as adding an extra goal threat in a 4-1-4-1. Lamela on right and Reus to the left.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Falcao for KDB. Attacking 4-4-2 with Xhaka and Eriksen in the middle and Lamela on the right Reus on the left. Falcao and Benzema up front.
posted on 28/1/17
Key to our game plan today, is quick passing moves in the midfield and using our pace out wide. We want to win a cup.
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.
Nzonzi is the holding player today, Vidal box to box and Thiago 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 Thiago on the ball to create the chances. Using the pace of our wide men. After Stoke 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
A.Vida; - S.Ramos – Otamendi - Kurzawa
----------- A.Vidal - Nzonzi
---------------- Thiago.A
C.Ronaldo ------------------------ Hazard
---------------- D.Costa
Subs. Schmeichel, Umtiti, Verratti, Can, F.Anderson, Pastore, Giroud
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 Nzonzi 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.
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. Then get forward quickly.
We always keep one fb back. We have a quick defence and energy and pace in midfield to stop quick breaks.
As Stoke 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. Nzonzi will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, reading any dangers to get across. Thiago 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 Stoke 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 Nzonzi 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.
Thiago the playmaker, with Vidal looking to collect the ball from defence, picking the passes to start the attacks. Then looking to find space between their defence and midfield.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Vidal, Thiago 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 Verratti for Thiago. Vidal moves to more advanced cm role.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Anderson for Costa. Ronaldo to centre forward. Fresh pace to get at them.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Giroud for Ronaldo.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Verratti for Nzonzi.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Giroud for Costa. Route one.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Verratti for Nzonzi.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Giroud and Umitit for Aleix Vidal and Kurzawa
posted on 28/1/17
-------------------Forster---------------------
Cedric----van Dijk----Kompany----Mendy
--------------Kante------Matic---------------
Gelson------------Gotze-------------Willian
------------------Lacazette-------------------
Pickford, Sakho, Milinkovic-Savic, Mahrez, Boufal, Dembele, Prowse
Forster behind the back four which is a solid defensive unit this defence has probably been as good as any in the league and we aim to keep it this way today, 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, Forster is a huge frame and dominates his area against the opposition.
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. Both go up for corners and free kicks as they are both very dangerous in the opposition box. Matic sits in with the fullabacks when they go forward.
Cedric and Mendy 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 Gelson 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. In this game we are obviously going to be up against top class players so our fullbacks must time there runs forward and not just do it for the sake of it. We MUST hold a strong line at the back to stop them breaking through and in on Forster.
We are going to look and play a compact midfield to reduce the time they have on the ball. Kante and Matic do this and will be sitting in with either making the occassional run forward, one of them must sit in at all times.Kante 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 wingers/Gotze. 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. Kante doesn't let anything go and will be at their players at all times, he has endless energy and wont give up, so as Matic takes care of the AM Kante will be at the heals of every one else in possession in the middle of the park.
Gelson and Willian will play with freedom to attack and support Gotze 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 Gelson and Willian will push wide to stop there fullbacks if needed and support Cedric and Mendy. When we defend this a flat bank of 4 with Gotze just a little further forward. 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. Both Willian and Gelson are also very good in front of goal so if an opportunity arises then they have freedom to go for goal.
Gotze 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 also 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 Gotze 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 Gelson 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 -Virgil van Dijk
Penalties - A.Lacazette
Free Kicks - Mario Gotze
Corners - Mario Gotze
Substitutes
If we are winning then Prowse will come on for Gotze on 70 minutes and go into midfield, Dembele for Lacazette on 80 minutes and on 85 minutes Sakho will come on for Gelson, Sakho to LB, Willian to RM and Mendy to LM in a flat 451
If we are losing then Dembele will come on for Gotze on 75 minutes and Boufal for Willian and, Mahrez for Gelson and we go 442
Drawing then Dembele for Lacazette, Savic for Gotze and Boufal for Willian all on 75 minutes
posted on 28/1/17
----------------------- Navas ------------------
Carvajal ----- Varane --- Laporte ---- Guerreiro
-------------- Khedira ----- Gundogan ---------------
Costa --------------- Barkley ------------- Ousmane
------------------- Lewandowski
Subs: Neuer, Tah, Gibbs, Fernandinho, Guedes, Martial, Carroll
Back to a 4-2-3-1 at Home to Hull, solid in defence and plenty of movement and pace up top. A strong side picked as we look to start our FA Cup campaign with a win.
Very possession based, look to control the game. We play out from the back and as we advance our passing gets quicker and more direct. We look for avenues towards the flanks to create holes, runners from deep in mf, wingers switch flanks to mix it up, fb’s overlap and service into the box.
Create as many lines as possible in mf and attack, our CDM sits in and frees himself up as the pass back option, wingers on the move with support from FB's and the likes of Ilkay and Barkley linking up, pass and move with Lewandowski playing off the shoulder looking for that final ball.
High line, look to press higher up the pitch, When we press, press as a unit. High energy, organisation and aggression, cut off the supply going forward by pressing the space and only allow them to play where we want them to. Man-mark and allow little time on the ball for their more creative based players to dictate or create.
If they look to go more counter attacking, our CDM (Khedira) and Carvajal sit in more than they might. Varane man-marks their ST, we look to get to any 2nd balls quicker than the opposition.
Navas quick off his line and mops up at the back, very alert. Quick and precise with his distribution to ensure we are controlling possession and initiating attacks on the break.
Playing out from the back, we should be quick to bypass their initial phase of pressing, keep it simple but 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.
Gundogan will be the link between mf and attack, B2B. At times maraud and use his burst of energy to get us moving forward, very creative and pivotal to building attacks from deep.
Defensively we transition into a 4-1-4-1 if we lose possession, two banks of four with a solid structure and organisation.
If they advance into dangerous areas or generally past the halfway line, we should look to drop deeper (10 men behind the ball) and crowd them out, press 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 and work as a unit.
Frustrate the opposition with our organisation, stay rigid and allow their attackers little involvement in the game so they have to come deeper to get involved, make them play in front of us and ensure we prevent runs in behind as much as possible.
If we win the ball in higher areas, counter attack with pace. Use the flanks as a base and don't allow them to re-organise, hit them hard on the break using our ST as a target-man.
Wingers today will provide plenty of width, stay wide and make sure we stretch the opposition. Allow the midfielders plenty of options going forward when on the ball through their movement, target their FB’s on a constant basis and get service into the front man from the flanks.
We should actively look for one on one situations in wide areas, have a right go at their backline, penetrate and create holes and always on the run, never standing still. Our FB’s should look to overlap depending on the flank with the other staying back, get the ball in the box with pace to create panic.
When we win the ball in midfield, Barkley is the initiator in attack, get him on the ball and looking for an early release, we need his calm presence and eye for a pass, the base for a counter and feeding the ST’s as much as possible.
Service out from the back, put them off their organisation with diagonal balls over the top into feet, switch the play quickly and allow the attackers to run into space.
Lewandowski strong as an outlet, get our midfield and flankers into the game. Drop deep at times to get involved and dominate the CB's aerially, press from the front.
Subs:
60th minute - If winning - (4-2-3-1)
Guedes > Barkley
Martial > Ousmane
Rigid in defence, further pace going forward looking to stretch the opposition.
70th minute – if draw - (4-3-3)
Fernandinho > Barkley
Martial > Ousmane
Fernandinho sits in a MF 3 allowing Khedira/Gundogan to burst forward, front 3 on the move up top.
74th minute - If losing (4-4-2)
Carroll > Barkley
Martial > Ousmane
4-4-2, two banks of four and looking to attack, very direct, Carroll partners Lewa. Costa and Martial as wingers with support from FB's.
C – Khedira
FK’s – Guerreiro / near - Lewandowski
Corners – Costa
Pens – Lewandowski
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