FA Cup Quarter Final
Birmingham City v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

Injuries: Valencia, Mendy, Redmond, Welbeck

Ter Stegen
Bernardo - Toprak - Howedes - Kolarov
A.Herrera - Kondogbia
Lucas Moura - Mata - Schurrle
Lacazette

Subs: Begovic, Cahill, Gustavo, Cazorla, Keita Balde, Rooney, Gameiro

-----------------

Big FA Cup tie away at Birmingham, going with the plan of dominating the midfield we aim to give ourselves the best possible chance of success today.

Going full strength today, taking no chances as Birmingham are a very good side and we want to make sure we get as many points as we can. Ter Stegen in goal, Bernardo, Toprak, Howedes and Kolarov in defence, Herrera and Kondogbia in midfield, Lucas Moura, Mata and Schurrle behind Lacazette upfront.

This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting through today. Birmingham have some class players in their side although we have some class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front four with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a duo who can dictate the game in Herrera and Kondogbia, with Mata ahead of them, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Lucas Moura at RW and Schurrle at LW both able to use their pace and get at the Birmingham defence with Bernardo and Kolarov overlapping. Lacazette 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 Lacazette.

Toprak/Howedes - Howedes to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Toprak 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.

Bernardo/Kolarov - Both of you to force the Birmingham wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Lucas/Schurrle 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 Lacazette and link with Herrera/Kondogbia/Mata. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Herrera/Kondogbia - Herrera playing the box to box role, assist Kondogbia in dealing with the Birmingham attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Kondogbia stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Kondogbia to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Herrera to burst forward to join the front four on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others.

Lucas Moura/Schurrle - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Birmingham fullbacks and get crosses in, but both of you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Lacazette with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Herrera/Kondogbia/Mata, and capitalise on the space Lacazette's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.

Mata - Mata to burst forward to join the front three as our AM, look to receive the ball and run at the Birmingham defence, bring the ball to create space for others and look for the runs of Lucas/Schurrle/Lacazette. Shoot if you get into position, also force the Birmingham defenders to foul you when you're attacking as we can be lethal from setpieces. Link with Lacazette regularly. Able to drop into midfield with Herrera/Kondogbia when under pressure and make a 4-5-1. Get behind Lacazette on occasion.

Lacazette - you will be expected to occupy the Birmingham 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 Lucas/Schurrle/Mata on occasion.

------------------

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Mata and Lacazette off, Gustavo and Gameiro on. Switch to a flat 4-5-1 with Gustavo alongside Herrera and Kondogbia in midfield.

If drawing: Mata and Lacazette off, Cazorla and Gameiro on. Switch to a 4-3-3 with Cazorla alongside Herrera and Kondogbia, Lucas and Schurrle either side of Gameiro.

If losing: Bernardo and Kondogbia off, Cazorla and Gameiro on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, back three of Toprak, Howedes and Kolarov, Cazorla the playmaker, Lucas - Herrera - Mata - Schurrle behind a front two of Gameiro and Lacazette. Push for goals.

Feck I forgot I was still in the FA cup Thought I was playing Portsmouth

————————Courtois
Aurier——Koulibaly——Luiz——Azpilicueta
——————-—Wanyama
———Rakitic———————Fabregas
Pedro—-———Griezmann————Carrasco

Subs: Bravo, Christensen, Tielemans, Koke, Williams, D.Jota, Aubameyang

Captain: David Luiz
Free Kicks: David Luiz/Cesc Fabregas
Penalties: Ivan Rakitic
Corners: Cesc Fabregas/Ivan Rakitic

Probably the toughest draw we could have got but we go for a very solid set up, two Fbs instead of wing backs today, we will have a flat back 4 when under pressure that changes to a 3 when we win the ball, Aurier looking to provide an overlap to Pedro whilst Azpi tucks in. We look to get on top of the midfield with the players we have, high energy of Wanyama and Rakitic and the calmness and control of Cesc looking to get our front three working around each other and between the opposition lines.

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 4-5-1. Our biggest tweak this week is to use two wide forwards when we press, so that we push Pedro 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. Griezmann will look to press the DM, always in his face stopping him dictating the game and put him on the back foot, 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, Fabregas and Rakitic both very tenacious and hard working looking to combat Newcastle’s two CMs, Rakitic using his energy to hold and Fabregas always there by his side ready to nip in and take possession. Wanyama 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. When we are forced back, Pedro and Carrasco drop make it 5 in midfield but they will look to keep in positions where if we win the ball they are ready for the counter, ready to attack any space the FB leaves, again something that will stretch out Newcastles midfield to try and cut off this problem, which in turn opens up more space for the creativity of Fabregas and Rakitic.

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 Cesc to cut them open. In these attacks, Wanyama sits in midfield ready to mop up any counter attacks before they start, with Azpi and Koulibaly slightly outstretched but forming a back 3 with Luiz at its centre, allowing Aurier to go and press on, overlapping to allow Pedro to come and play infield, with Carrasco holding the width as we look to use his trickery to stretch the game. When we win the ball, the opposition CBs will be looking who to pick up, with no one in a usual CF position (Griezmann more of a free role), we look to take advantage of any organisation issues this costs by having Carrasco stretch out to the touchline and Pedro in the gap between CB and FB, we send the ball out to the stretched out flank, doubling up with Fabregas or Griezmann able to come across to join Carrasco to hurt their FBs, with the other one coming towards the play to play in the half spaces, looking to get unmarked and in position to pick his passes, dragging the DM out of position also opens up more room for Rakitic and with Fabregas quick one touch pass and move, him to drift back into space infield and dominate 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 Aurier and a Cm to attack the box, getting 4 in the box, with Rakitic too waiting for a ball in. Plan B is for if Fabregas, Luiz, Rakitic or Azpilicueta 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 Pedro 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. We want lots of rotation in attacks, in particular Fabregas making it a front 4 with Carrasco looking to provide the direct running and Pedro the out to in runs the get him in behind and in his favoured striking role.

Subs:

If Winning: Tielemans for Fabregas 70’, fresh legs in midfield. Jota for Pedro 75’. Christensen for Carrasco 80’, 3-4-3 with Rakitic going to AM alongside Jota behind Griezmann.

If Drawing: Aubameyang for Carrasco 65’, Griezmann LW. Koke for Rakitic 75’. Williams for Pedro 80’.

If Losing: Auabmeyang for Carrasco 60’, Griezmann LW. Williams for Wanyama 70’, 3-4-3 with Aurier and Williams and Pedro as aggressive WBs, Williams, Auba and Griezmann as a front three. Koke for Fabregas 75’, extra energy in midfield.

Man City

---------------------- Hart ------------------------

Sorensen - S.Mustafi - Koscielny - FilipeLuis

------------------ Schneiderlin ------------------

Walcott ---- J.Mario --- Y.Toure ---- Perrotti

---------------------- Icardi -----------------------

Rajkovic, Keane, Roque Mesa, Calhanoglu, Sigurdsson, Bacca, Turan

All about possession today and keeping it simple,pass and move and wait for the opportunity to hit them on the break, we have some good footballers on show today, some vastly experienced so keep it down, wait for the moment and set our forwards free!

Solid back 5 with Hart in goal, a super shot stopper, always on his toes ready. Is extremely confident and that will ooze out to the rest of the team. Always look to get the team away quickly on the counter by shipping it out wide to the wingers early. Close down forwards early and reduce there shooting angles.

Mustafi and Koscielny know each other well and have a good relationship which always helps at centre back. Mustafi picks up the danger man, stay tight on him and watches his every move, even when we attack Mustafi must always be prepared to get onto to him quickly just in case, be solid in the tackle, hit him early but don't dive in. Koscielny sits spare, if they have two up top then he goes for the second striker, if its just one then he sits just off Mustafi in case the forward breaks free, both must dominate today don't give the forwards an inch. Sorensen sits in which allows Luis to attack, putting us into a 352 of some sort then Sorensen simply moves to RCB and Luis pushes on this will see Perotti move inside. Anyway in our line up to start Luis is allowed to support Perotti, get up and to his outside allowing him to move inside as the two look to push there RB back and cause havoc, look to fire in a cross to Icardi or if Icardi/Yaya in space a simple ball inside. Soensen on the other hand will take the ball to half way and look to get Walcott away with his pace and look to put a ball in between the defenders for him to chase. He sits back most of the time however as Luis will be on the attack.
We keep it simple at the back nothing silly, Luis doesn't have a free reign to attack, but he knows when and when not to.

Morgan just in front, he patrols that area, a big player for us today, a lot will go through him, wether its the defenders passing forward or the midfielders passing back to him to start again. He can supply some very good balls, but with there AM on him he must do it quickly, an intelligent player so will know where the pass is going before he gets the ball, mostly just keep it simple but if he sees a long pass on either out wide or to Icardi up top then ping it to them. Defending then there AM will be dangerous, so again look at his positioning make sure it is correct and don't allow the player to control the game, get right on top of him, so he panics and puts away a silly pass.

Yaya and Mario ahead of him and fantastic ball players, both can attack and defend well, so again when we are in possession always go looking for the ball, quick one touch passing letting Stoke chase them around the park and tire themselves out, if it has to go backwards to get us forwards then so be it, Morgan is the re to start again, a quick turn with the ball will not only take there player out of it but it will also give them room to get there head up and see where the front three are then its up to them to make sure the pass goes straight to them, both similar players and will be allowed to make a move forward into the box, but II always want one just holding back, in case they break or the ball comes out, both can shoot from distance so if the opportunity arises then go for it. When ddefending then along with Morgan these three powerhouses will look to dominate the Stoke midfield.

Walcott is quick, very quick, Perotti is skillfull and likes to take on his man so there fullbacks are up against it, Walcott may have to do a lot on his own as Sorensen wont be upp that much, however his pace allows this, Sorensen will look to play the pass that allows Walcott to use his pace and get down the line and take on the LB, use those inside to give and go and get right into the mixer and give to Mario/Icardi or go for goal. Perotti and Luis will have fun down our left, Luis will time his runs down the left so Perotti will look for him so he can pass it passed there |RB for Luis to run onto, once this is done Perotti can shuffle inside to make himself available again. If Luis isn't up then Perotti will be looking to get in early crosses for Icardi and Walcott to run at.

Both must help out defensively, we set up with the two banks of 4 with Morgan in between them, when we do this it make it very difficult for Stoke to break down, we chase down everything, we don't give them any time on the ball, this is a must win today, so 100% from every single player out there.

Icardi is a top striker, he sits on the last man all the time, he runs the line looking to ruffle up there defenders if he has a marker then look to drag him about and out of position for other players to drift into when we attack. He has a great eye for goal so if he gets a chance he will bury it, good in the air too so time his jumps and if he gets up before the CB then get a good powerful head onto it.

4-1-4-1 looks defensive but we have the players to hurt them at times when we attack it will be 352/343, but we must be professional today and committed, this is a must win for us and Stoke are looking for Europe so they will be on it today too, they have a younger team now so we cant chase them, they chase us and we use our experience all round the pitch to tire them out, pass and move, possession football and we hopefully will prevail!

Captain - Koscielny
Penalties - Icardi
Free Kicks - Perotti/Turan
Corners - Perotti/Turan

Subs

Losing
65 Mins - Turan for Yaya we go 4411
75 mins - Bacca for Perotti 442
80 Mins 0 Gyfi for Luis 3412

Winning -
70 Mins - Roque Mesa for Yaya
80 Mins - Bacca for Icardi

Drawing -
70 Mins - Turan for Yaya
80 Mins - Calhanoglu for Perotti, Bacca for Icardi

Red Cards

Always go 351 to keep on top of the midefield
Hart - Rajkovic for Luis
defender - go 3 at the back
CM - Roque Mesa for Luis
Perotti - Luis goes to LM
Walcott - Perotti to RM Luis to LM
Icardi - Walcott up front, Luis LM, Perotti RM

-----------------------Forster-----------------------
-------van Dijk-----Kompany-----D.Blind--------
-----------------Kante-------Matic-----------------
Coleman--------------------------------Robertson
-----------------------Barkley-----------------------
----------------Lukaku------Moussa----------------

Pickford, Mahrez, Cedric, Wilshire, Garcia, Lamela, Batshuayi

Forster is a top notch goalkeeper, a very big barrier to try and pass, and also for such a big lad he can get down to low shots very quickly, his reaction time is very fast. His big frame almost fills the goals, and he has not conceded many this season so will look to continue his fine form. Out for crosses and they are dealt with with ease.

We go with a 3 man defence with wingbacks today, Kompany is central to our defence, he is superb at marking, tackling and bringing the ball out, a very modern day centre back who can play football, he can start attacks from the back and look to play some good balls forward, when we defend we will look to him to mark the main striker out of the game. With van Dijk and Blind either side this will form a tough barrier to try and break down especially with Kante and Matic ahead of them, they will help out the wingbacks and Kompany, if they play two strikers then they can pick up too, if Kompany is marking the main one then they will decide which one of them picks up the second one depending where he is, we will not be dragged about out of position and they are all experienced enough to know this. Also look to help out when there wingers and fullbacks come forward, one who isn't marking will go out to help. van Dijk/Kompany goes up for set pieces, leaving Kante and one wingback in there place. All our CBs are comfortable with the ball at feet so can bring it out if possible and in no trouble.

Robertson and Coleman are very important today in our defence and attack, first of all when we defend, if they attack with fullbacks then allow the winger to move onto Blind/van Dijk, its not very often we see sides pushing both fullbacks on so the opposite fullback will come in to become a spare defender picking up elsewhere. When we attack they will get down the line and look to get in crosses to the strikers quite early, or play it into Barkley who will then push it forward. If they see space to cut in and go for goal then they can do so.

Kante and Matic still the partnership in front of the defence, this time Matic sits just in front of Kompany allowing Kante time and space to do what he does best and run about like a mad man! He does this with great effect tho, especially in the middle third of the pitch, he will close down and press anyone with the ball in that area and more often that not he will get his man, however on the off chance he doesn't Matic will be there to sort it out, when we are defending it will be 3-4 formation with Barkley just ahead so this will be very difficult to break down. When they have the ball however, Kante and Matic aren't the kind to launcha 40/50 yard pass so look to get it to the wingbacks or Barkley with nice short passes to get us moving forward.

Barkley central is important, the way we play will be quick and direct so he must be on the ball to get the ball turn quickly and either ship it wide or straight through to our strikers, he will be closed down early too so he must think of the pass before he even gets the ball so he is a step ahead of every one else, an intelligent player so knows the best option and will look to cut open the defence wether its down to the bye line for Robertson/Coleman to chase or look to split the defender open for the two up front.

And those two very prolific in form strikers must form a quick partnership as we have two very good strikers waiting there turn. Both powerful men who wont be bully, they will look to always have the defenders on there toes looking to split them open with very clever runs for Barkley to pass the ball into, or they will be in the box awaiting a cross coming in from wide, both brilliant in the air so if the get up early enough and attack the ball against a static defender then a good chance they will get there first. They must move about that's is imperative today as they have top notch defenders and wont get much change out of them if they just stand around expecting things to happen for them, they must make them happen!

A new formation, but still strong, look to stifle there midfield and stop them playing football, if we can do this and get the ball to our quick players out wide or Barkley then we have a chance with our strikers on show today hopefully

Captain is Virgil van Dijk
Ross Barkley is our set piece taker
and Penalties will be Lukaku

Substitutes are as follows

If we are losing then Lamela will replace Robertson on the left on 70 minutes and Mahrez will replace Coleman on the right, Batshuayi will come on for Moussa also we go with wingers instead of wingbacks

If we are drawing then on 70 minutes Batshuayi for Moussa and Garcia for Matic with Barkley going to CM, Kante becomes the DM

If we are winning then Wilshire for Moussa on 70 minutes we go 3241 and Cedric for Coleman on 80 minutes

Leicester vs ARSENAL (4-3-3)
Injuries:
Hysaj, Barzagli, Jorginho, Berardi


…………………………………Buffon………………………………
De Sciglio……….Rugani………….Chiellini………….Sandro
…………………………………….Allan………………………………..
………………………..Hamsik…………Marchisio………………..
Bernardeschi…………………………………………………..Zaha
……………………………………..Higuain…………………………….

Subs: Butland, Romagnoli, Bruma, Ward-Prowse, El Shaarawy, Lopes, Mandragora

Away at title chasing Lesta and was torn between rolling over or just not submitting tactics, But Fan sent the boys round for a straightener so what can you do?

Nice lovely Serie A balance to this side (let’s ignore Zaha – but his name sounds like it fits no?)

Rof has built a stellar side and we go to the crisp factory or pot noodle stadium whatever it’s called now as massive underdogs – he’ll have to come on to us (behave) and take the initiative (behave) whilst we soak it all up and smash them on the counter-attack – proper old school cynical anti-football by the Italians – we don’t care though we have

The back-line will be well disciplined and will stay deep, Sandro and De Sciglio like to push on but not today I want a solid defensive line – leave no space behind for their wide-men to exploit – Rugani and Chiellini will act as a nice combo – I expect Rof to go one up top and he will be Chiellini’s man to deal with by any means necessary it doesn’t need to be pretty, just effective – Rugs will be the insurance policy drifting wide to help out our full-backs if required, when our Fb’s have the ball we want it going diagonal – lets aim for our wingers on the “fly” to try and turn Rof’s FB’s and get them running at their own goal….Rugs and Chiellini are cultured on the ball and will be given the freedom to go long quickly to start off any counters before Lesta get men back behind the ball – but they’re decent enough to play shorter crisp passes to take the sting out of the game – Lesta have too many matchwinners to cough up the ball too cheaply against them and bring more pressure on ourselves.

The Midfield area is where this game is won or lost (maybe drawn) my midfield is pretty narrow so whilst we may be hurt out-wide we can control the centre ground and with it the tempo of the game, Allan (god I miss proper Brazilian names) is a very good holding midfielder, breaks up the play nicely but is useful on the ball too, I want him positioned infront of the striker (not goal side) so that the strikers pretty much sandwiched between Chiellini and Allan – hopefully leaving him isolated and frustrated by the lack of service – it’s rare for a DM to mark a striker rather than an Am but that’s the plan – Marchisio is the engine going box to box today that work ethic is vital for us against such a strong side whilst Hamsik comes in as our all action playmaker – likes to get a foot in but also has a fantastic range of passing as well as carrying a proper goal threat. This trident for me has it all and should see us get a good foothold in the game.

The Front three have enough about them to conjure something up and be clinical enough in front of goal to keep us in the game – Bernardeschi is having a fantastic season and will look to come inside from the right flank – goals and assists a plenty for Fiorentina so will bring that form into this game for us – on the opposite side Zaha comes in as a proper winger, pace and power will look to keep it wide and really run at his FB, drawing tackles and fouls, leaving Higgy to be our fox in the box, may not be the greatest in terms of build up play, but when that ball falls in the box, there’s not many you’d want there over him.

Subs:

65 mins Romagnoli > Chiellini (like for like)
70 mins El Shaarawy > Zaha (like for like)
75 mins Gabbiadini > Higuain (like for like)

Weiser, Schopf, Gnabry, Driussi

Captain: Süle
Penalties: Milik (Werner)
Free Kicks: Bailey/Amiri/Forsberg

---------------------------Horn
Klostermann-----Süle-----Kempf-------Toljan
----------------Diawara---------Dahoud
---Bailey----------------Amiri -------------Forsberg
---------------------------Milik

Subs: Karius, Stark, Elvedi, Augustinsson, Biglia, Geis, Werner


Our defensive unit consists of Niklas Süle and Marc-Oliver Kempf paired up at centre-back, Lukas Klostermann at right-back and Jeremy Toljan at left-back, with Amadou Diawara and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Diawara 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 Diawara 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, Amadou Diawara.

A holding midfielder through and through, Diawara 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 Diawara such a talent.

The attacking unit consists of Leon Bailey, Nadiem Amiri 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 Diawara or Dahoud, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.

Klostermann and Toljan can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Diawara 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. Nadiem Amiri 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. Amiri 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 Forsberg, Bailey 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 75 Mins: Keita 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: Werner on for Milik
Very much like his comrades (Forsberg, Bailey & Amiri), 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.

Sorry take Biglia off the bench and replace with Keita!!!

------------------------ De Gea -----------------------

Bellerin ----- Bonucci ----- Caldara ----- Ricardo

---------------- Arturo ------- Sergio ----------------

Sterling ---------------- Alli ---------------- Neymar

------------------------ Aguero ------------------------

Lafont, Lahm, Fabinho, Sanchez, Dybala, Benteke, Mbappe

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 Caldara on this occassion Caldara will man mark the CF. Caldara is a very cultured defender who 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.

Bellerin 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. 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.

We have a very industrious pairing in the middle, 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. Vidal 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, Vidal should have a bit of time to look around him for the pass as he looks to find his team mates with ease. 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 Dele Alli in a No.10 role against there DM he must be strong, he 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, he must support Aguero as best he can and the two must link up very well, very quickly, Alli is fantastic in front of goal, I think his record speaks for itself. All three are good all round midfielders, But Busquets i want to sit in the hole with the two either side when defending. I want our defence and midfield shutting down everything quickly, even if its high up the pitch, we don't give them time on the ball to get it to their dangerous front three.

Neymar and Sterling 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. Sterling I want to be a proper winger today and look to drive down the line and keep it to the outside making them come to him, which will leave holes in the centre of the pitch hopefully he will get the ball into. 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 Alli inside as the four make an awesome quartet in behind Aguero and a scary proposition for there slow back line, Neymar, Sterling are versatile players so may switch during the course of the game to annoy defenders, They have attacking fullbacks so I want them to get in behind them and force them back

Aguero will get plenty chances, hat trick last week so bang in form, 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 Sterling. Alli will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side. But especially look for Alli as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.

Captain - Bonucci
Penalties - Neymar
Free kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers

Losing -
70 Min - Sanchez > Sterling, Dybala > Alli(he sits just off Aguero)
80 Mins - Mbappe > Aguero go 442 but we are really quick up top now v tiring defenders

Winning -
70 Mins - Sanchez > Neymar, Fabinho > Alli, Fabinho sits in beside Vidal and Busquets, Sanchez helps out the defensive side but still a huge threat
80 Mins - Dybala for Aguero a new threat but will work tirelessly

Drawing -
70 Mins - Sanchez > Sterling, Dybala > Alli (he sits just off Aguero)
80 Mins - Mbappe > Neymar

BHAM VS Portsmouth

-----------------------------------Cech-----------------------------------
Walker------------Manolas---------Verthonghen---------Rose
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------Brozovic----------Goretzka------------------------
James--------------------------------------------------------------------Depay
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------Mertens------------------Vardy-----------------

Subs - Zieler, Shawcross, Moutinho, Shaqiri, Nasri, Rashford , Niang

CAPTAIN - CECH
CK'S - MERTENS
FK'S - JAMES
PENALTIES - JAMES


This 4222 formation is solid in defence but also very attacking with 2 strikers up front and 2 wingers. I want us to play high up and to not give the oppo attackers any room to breath. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move footbal. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. When we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.

Defence
I got a world class keeper in goal so he will be hard to beat. The defence is well balanced. Manolas and Verthonghen are an excellent partnership and bring experience at the back. Vert brings that old school no nonsense defending. Stay strong and if the opposition play 1 up front than stay close to him and not let him turn. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box.

Centre Mids
Brozovic + Goretzka
Brozovic and Goretzka will play a b2b role. When Brozovic attacks, Goretzka stays back to defend and vice versa. Close the oppo AM down and don't let the other team have any time on the ball in the centre of midfield. Brozovic has the ability to pick out a pass while Goretzka is an engine which can run all day long. They complement each other perfectly.

Wingers
James + Depay
Depay is a pacy winger, he is a very good dribbler and is very good at keeping hold of the ball. Play quick passes and try and carve open the oppo defence with intricate play. Be ready for the counter attack as both are deadly on them. James is also a tricky winger/attack mid who will look to cut in on to his stronger left foot. Confuse the oppo left back by twisting and turning and get some decent crosses in. I want you both to help track back and help the full backs when they are in our half of the pitch.

Strike
Mertens + Vardy
I want you both to use your pace to try and beat the offside trap. Pass and move is the way to go. With two fast pacy strikers up front, we're bound to create chances on the counter.

Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Rashford for Mertens. Also bring on Nasri for Brozovic and Shaqiri for Goretzka. Play a high line and try and get a goal.

Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take off Mertens and put on Shawcross in CB and play 5atb ultra defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives. Moutinho for James aswell.

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Mertens off for Rashford
Goretzka off for Moutinho
James off for Shaqiri

-----------------------Leno------------------
--Juanfran-----Glik-----Savic---Baines--
--------------Bakayoko----Dembele--------
---Candreva---------Silva--------Otavio---
------------------------Morata------------------
Subs: Zoet, Traore, Mussachio, Baines, Ndidi, Lallana, Giroud.

Leno is our goalkeeper. Basic job of shot stopping throughout, organising his defence and communicating from the last line of defence.

Our full backs are Juanfran and Baines. There jobs are to sit along with the back 4 when defending to create a rigid 4 at the back when defending and supporting the wingers to create width when going forward. They force their wingers wide and show them down the line at all costs and look to be that extra man in a wide area as an option. Our centre backs are Glik and Savic. Glik will mark the striker tightly, not giving him the time or space for shots or to create chances. Savic will be the cover defender for the rest of defence, sweeping up with balls over the top and tracking any runners if they haven't already been picked up as the last man.

Bakayoko and Dembele will be our holding midfielders. They will both look to hold a good position to sit in front of the back 4 and protect. Bakayoko will look to be the ball winning midfielder, breaking up the play when and where he can and looking to keep hold of possession. Dembele will be the play maker from deep and he will look to create chances or openings by feeding little passes through the gaps and into spaces for our players to run onto or that our attacking players have created. Dembele and Bakayoko wanting to be the main creators in the engine room and use your energy in midfield to look to dominate.

Our 3 more advanced midfielders are Candreva, Silva and Otavio. Candreva will stick wide and create our width, using the support from Juanfran to look to get in a 1v1 against the full back, putting dangerous, whipped crosses into the box. Otavio will look to come inside to support Silva and Morata when he can, looking to pick up little gaps in between the lines and receive balls from the deeper midfielders and then looking to get the ball in behind wherever possible. Silva deploys the same role but in a much more central position, looking to receive passes from deep and pick little gaps between the midfield and defence and looking to create and get the ball in behind when possible.

Morata will look to make runs in behind the defence where possible. Looking to latch onto balls through and into the spaces in behind as well as attacking crosses from either side but mainly from the right side. He needs to attempt to find himself that half a yard of space in the box when he can to get that finishing opportunity as well as tucking away his chances.

Subs:

Ndidi > Bakayoko, 75 mins
Lallana > Candreva, 80 mins (Narrow)

Attacking 3-4-2-1

An attacking formation that allows us to commit a high number of players forward to create a defensive overload for the opposition. Importantly we’ll always have 3 strong defensive players with good pace back to guard against a counter.

We go with pace in our front trio. Douglas Costa comes in on the right to give us a trio of players with fantastic pace capable of creating something from nothing. In midfield we have a good mix of pace, creativity and grit.

We look to dominate the game and possession, building from the back. We have 3 defenders who are very strong on the ball. We’ll vary our play, mix it up with long balls from the back and Verratti from midfield. Stretch them, and put us on the front foot quickly.

A fluid formation, it allows us to keep a compact shape defensively. Ramos marks the striker, giving us two spare cbs, who will help the wbs defend against their pacey wingers. Vallejo gets the nod as third cb for his pace and ability on the ball.

If they have more than one striker go man for man, with 3rd cb sweeping. Will give them less to defend with and we feel we could outscore them at home.

We have great pace going forward, and attack as direct as possible. The wbs provide the width, providing an overlap, the front trio have creative freedom in the opposition half.

In the midfield 4 we have great work rate giving us a strong side when defending.

Going forward the idea underpinning our formation is the interconnectivity between the players in the formation. The layers to the formation allow for the setup of multiple diamonds and triangle shapes throughout the team, creating space and passing options for each player. Quick passing moves forward.

When we lose the ball, on the side of play the wing back drops to fb, and the wide forward drops to midfield. Narrowing to the side of play. Getting numbers back that Arsenal will have to try and play through, make their dangerous players go deeper to get the ball.

----------------- Neuer
------ Vallejo – S.Ramos - Umtiti
Danilo – S.Khedira – Verratti - Kurzawa
--- D.Costa ------------- Hazard
-------------- C.Ronaldo

Subs. Schmeichel, Otamendi, A.Vidal, Partey, Gagliardini, Sane, Diego Costa,

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, we look to get back to a compact 4-4-1-1 formation. Narrow to the side they are attacking. The wing back on the side of play drops to full back in line with the defence, and the attacking midfielder drops in line with the midfielders.

In this formation we press the opposition as soon as they enter the middle third of the park. In the middle third of the park, 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.

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 second closest midfielder presses towards to cut the passing lane for the most obvious pass that the player on the ball could make. The attacking mid(Costa/Hazard) on the opposite side of play looks to sit on their dm, and Ronaldo sits in between their cbs, split them. Closing potential passes for the opposition, force them to take risks.

As the opposition advance higher into the final third, we will have two compact walls of four behind the ball with next to no space between them. The ball is pressed by the two closest players from each side. Force them backwards.

Narrow to the ball, overloading the side of play they are attacking, restricting options. Defending aggressively in numbers.

Our wb’s have fantastic pace up against their wingers, they get close but bide their time, waiting for the right time to make the tackle, not diving in. Behind them is a cb to cover, and two cbs to defend any balls into the box.

Attack

Play the ball out from the back. 3 defenders who are comfortable on the ball and allow us to vary our play.

If a quick counter is not on, we circulate possession patiently in our own half to find gaps in the opposition before switching to a very quick passing approach as we get the ball to our midfielders in the opposition half, looking to get the ball to our attacking trio as quickly as possible with short passing moves.

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. Kroos has creative freedom on the ball, he has the ability to play through balls and long diagonals to open up the opposition.

Quick interchangeable play in the final third, using our strong close control and pace to break through.

Get the ball to our wingers, the trio have freedom to find space and play their natural game. Taking on players and creating.

Captain: Ramos.

Subs

If winning after 70 mins bring on Partey for Khedira. Fresh energy and power in an important position.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Diego Costa and Sane for Hazard and Douglas Costa. Fresh pace and power to take advantage of tired Arsenal legs.

If drawing after 65 mins bring on Diego Costa for Douglas Costa. Hazard right, Ronaldo left. Costa to bully their cbs. Give them something different to deal with.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Gagliardini for Khedira. Strong but more creative player.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Sane for Danilo. Go for the win.

If losing after 45 mins bring on Diego Costa for Douglas Costa. Ronaldo left. Hazard right. More direct.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Sane and Partey for Khedira and Vallejo. 4-3-3. Gung ho.

Hull City v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

Injuries: Galloway, Kolarov, Redmond, Lanzini

Ter Stegen
Valencia - Toprak - Howedes - Mendy
A.Herrera - Kondogbia
Lucas Moura - Mata - Schurrle
Lacazette

Subs: Begovic, Cahill, Bernardo, Gustavo, Cazorla, Keita Balde, Gameiro

-----------------

Huge relegation six pointer away at Hull, going with the plan of dominating the midfield we aim to give ourselves the best possible chance of success today.

Going full strength today, taking no chances as Hull are a very good side and we want to make sure we get as many points as we can. Ter Stegen in goal, Valencia, Toprak, Howedes and Mendy in defence, Herrera and Kondogbia in midfield, Lucas Moura, Mata and Schurrle behind Lacazette upfront.

This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting through today. Hull have some class players in their side although we have some class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front four with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a duo who can dictate the game in Herrera and Kondogbia, with Mata ahead of them, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Lucas Moura at RW and Schurrle at LW both able to use their pace and get at the Hull defence with Valencia and Mendy overlapping. Lacazette 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 Lacazette.

Toprak/Howedes - Howedes to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Toprak 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.

Valencia/Mendy - Both of you to force the Hull wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Lucas/Schurrle 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 Lacazette and link with Herrera/Kondogbia/Mata. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Herrera/Kondogbia - Herrera playing the box to box role, assist Kondogbia in dealing with the Hull attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Kondogbia stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Kondogbia to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Herrera to burst forward to join the front four on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others.

Lucas Moura/Schurrle - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Hull fullbacks and get crosses in, but both of you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Lacazette with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Herrera/Kondogbia/Mata, and capitalise on the space Lacazette's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.

Mata - Mata to burst forward to join the front three as our AM, look to receive the ball and run at the Hull defence, bring the ball to create space for others and look for the runs of Lucas/Schurrle/Lacazette. Shoot if you get into position, also force the Hull defenders to foul you when you're attacking as we can be lethal from setpieces. Link with Lacazette regularly. Able to drop into midfield with Herrera/Kondogbia when under pressure and make a 4-5-1. Get behind Lacazette on occasion.

Lacazette - you will be expected to occupy the Hull 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 Lucas/Schurrle/Mata on occasion.

------------------

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Mata and Lacazette off, Gustavo and Gameiro on. Switch to a flat 4-5-1 with Gustavo alongside Herrera and Kondogbia in midfield.

If drawing: Mata and Lacazette off, Cazorla and Gameiro on. Switch to a 4-3-3 with Cazorla alongside Herrera and Kondogbia, Lucas and Schurrle either side of Gameiro.

If losing: Valencia and Kondogbia off, Cazorla and Gameiro on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, back three of Toprak, Howedes and Mendy, Cazorla the playmaker, Lucas - Herrera - Mata - Schurrle behind a front two of Gameiro and Lacazette. Push for goals.

Rulli
Mammana Ginter Marquinhos
Sidibe Kovacic Paredes Gaya
Lemar Belotti Coutinho

Substitutes: Dragowski; Dendoncker; Pellegrini; Boschilia; Cyprien; Koziello; Ponce

Captain: Belotti
Penalties: Paredes
Free Kicks: Coutinho
Corners: Coutinho

Game Plan:

Starting at the back, the three defenders are protected in front by the hard working, yet technically sound, duo of Kovacic and Paredes – who will be operating as box to box midfielders intent on disrupting Chelsea's flow. Width is provided by the wing-backs Sidibe and Gaya, both are naturally very offensive but their defensive discipline will be key to preventing our defensive from being overrun. Lemar and Coutinho are natural inside forwards and Belotti can drop into space or offer himself as a target man.

The movement from the forwards is enabled by Ginter who essentially plays as a sweeper in front of the other two centre-backs. He can start attacks by bringing the ball into midfield, or he can drop back into defence to intercept passes. The other two centre backs will look to keep things simple and play short passes in to the midfield, as one of the 4 will always be in space – whereas Ginter, with his superior passing range, will look to use City's pressing attempts against them and pinpoint our forwards further up the pitch.

Against City, Gaya and Sidibe will push forward to deny the opposition full-backs space and will seek to create an overload. By creating this numerical advantage in the opponents half, Lemar and Coutinho can attack the channels between full-back and centre-back.
Alternatively, the wing-backs can cut inside and swap positions with the inside-forwards. Belotti is the focal point and he will occupy at least one of the opposing centre-backs which means that we will always have a man spare in attack with this method and, even if an opposing midfielder drops, Kovacic and Paredes can push up to sustain the overload.

The key to breaking down a solid defensive unit using a numerical advantage is speed in the overload. As soon as we get possession, we will be looking to move the ball up the pitch with quick, simple, pass and move football that will create space for our wide players to move in to and stretch out the City defence, creating more opportunities for our central players, especially Belotti, to cause problems.

When off the ball, we will operate in a 5-4-1 shape with the wing-backs acting alongside the 3 defenders to make a back 5, whilst the inside forwards drop to positions alongside Paredes and Kovacic to create a line of 4 in midfield. This will allow us a significant numerical advantage in defence, as City will have to keep their centre backs and, possibly, their central midfielders deeper to combat any potential counters. This means that we will likely find ourselves in plenty of situations where we have 2/3 defenders to every 1 City attacker. This numerical advantage allows us to challenge for the ball while simultaneously having a player or 2 in reserve to cover if the City player manages to evade the tackle or to block off passing lanes.

This strangulation of space in our final 3rd will prevent City from being able to attack with any pace, meaning they will have to play a more patient passing game through the midfield, which will suit our players as we will be able to cover against balls in behind and maintain a solid defensive shape at the back while our midfielders and wingers harry the ball carrier in to losing possession with rushed passes.

The four midfielders defend in a position-oriented manner with their focus being primarily on occupying strong positions in relation to the ball's location to block important spaces in front of the defence. However, the scheme is not wholly passive as the nearest midfielder to the ball steps forward to press the ball carrier. Regaining the ball is not the primary intention, but by applying a level of pressure on the ball they seek to control the opposition's circulation by reducing the ball carrier's time to make dangerous passes.

Within the position-oriented zonal defence, as with any other zonal defence, there is a high level of team-mate orientation this means the players are constantly adjusting their positions based on not only the ball but also the actions of their team-mates. When a midfielder steps forward the surrounding players narrow up and deepen slightly to provide extra cover in the space just vacated.

Furthermore, the defensive duties of Belotti cannot be underestimated in this formation. Though not particularly expected to sprint from touchline to touchline in pursuit of the ball, his occupation of a central position high up the pitch effectively negates the use of City's centre backs as part of the possession unless they drop very deep and open up far too much space between them and the midfield. It also means that any deep lying playmakers that City hope to employ cannot spend much time searching for the right pass as Belotti bearing down from behind will not allow possession to be held up.

Similarly, Belotti’s presence up top makes the counter attack drastically more effective as he is able to hold up long balls and wait for our wide attackers to charge up the field before releasing them and keeping City's defence from forming up quickly.


Substitutions:

70 minutes: Dendoncker for Ginter- From here, we will look to switch in to a 433 formation, allowing Dendoncker to be an aggressive ball winner in the centre with Kovacic and Paredes running on either side.

75 minutes: Pellegrini for Paredes- Pellegrini is a solid centre mid and very assured in possession, which will allow him to spread the ball around under pressure and keep City chasing.

80 minutes: Boschilia for Lemar- Fresh legs up front late on to cause some holes to appear in the City back line.


In case of a red card:

With our formation and line up as it is, ever player on the pitch can play in at least 2 positions, which means we will not have to change much in the case of a dismissal.

In any case, we will drop in to a 441 formation and look to play on the counter with 2 solid banks and Belotti up front. If Belotti is sent off, Coutinho will lead the line.

If Rulli is dismissed, Dragowski will have to come on in place of Sidibe, with Ginter fitting in at right back.

—————————Courtois
———Christensen——Luiz——Azpilicueta
Aurier——Wanyama————Koke———Marcelo
———Carrasco————————Griezmann
————————Aubameyang

Subs: Bravo, Moses, Terry, Danilo, Fabregas, Pedro, Chicharito

Captain: David Luiz
Free Kicks: David Luiz/Koke
Penalties: Pierre Emerik Aubameyang
Corners: Koke

We’ve got our game plan today and we must stick to it, defend deeper than usual and make everything compact with a back 5 and 4 man midfield ahead of it, we look to make it 9 vs 8 when they attack us and 3 v 3 or 5 vs 5 when we attack them, this way we are attacking into space which suits the pace we have, and they are attacking into a crowded third of the pitch for their attacks which will limit their ability to find space. Defend as a unit and let Auba, Griezmann and Carrasco, with support of the WBs/Koke do the rest.

A more cautious approach and one designed to limit the opponents space, we will form a block in our own half and begin our hard work in nullifying their attacks by getting the forwards back helping out so that they’ll be between the opposition CMs and FBs so that off the ball they help us defend by pressing the FBs, with Carrasco and Griezmann positioning themselves between the two off the ball in order to keep the Chelsea FBs from risking too much going forward, or if the FBs do, occupying a position we can quickly counter from, whilst AUbameyang comes and hounds Busquets every time the ball goes near him, stopping him controlling the tempo of the game. 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 Chelsea defenders, looking to transition quickly before the Chelsea midfield can form a block. As previously stated we stay as a group to make it compact, with Wanyama and Koke looking to use this to their advantage, it allows them to work in tandem to slow Chelsea attacks down, Wanyama working tirelessly to press the man on the ball and Koke working to close passing angles down, which will allow the energetic WBs and the two wide CBs, along with the AMs to press around our CM’s, the WBs narrowing in to our compact unit to get a foot in, with Azpilicueta/Christensen able to step out of the back line and use their excellent aggressive form of defending to break down attacks before they can get into our third, knowing that we will always have Luiz’s power and pace behind them to cover as well as two WBs who can drop in if needed, using their pace to get back quickly if we make a mistake. This leaves Luiz as a sweeper to deal with the Aguero’s movement in behind, looking to bully him out of the game, always putting his body in the way and frustrating him as he tends to do. With this system of defending in mind when Chelsea have the ball in our half we will look to press them into going wide as we can double up with WB and wide CB to stifle their wingers whilst we can also use our wing backs to good effect when we win the ball back, stretch the game and opening up room for the forwards.

If Chelsea 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. With this in mind we want to force them to their right as we can use Marcelo and Azpi to stop the attack and if they do get crosses in, Aurier, Christensen and Luiz are all very powerful in the air. In these positions we can simply make things too compact to break through, Wanyama and Koke closed right in blocking the route out whilst the forward on that side comes back to press and then act as the link man to the two high forwards who are free of defensive duties, close to the play but in positions where they are focusing on making runs when we win it back rather than trying to get a foot in, unless of course the ball goes back towards where they are.

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. Azpilicueta and Christensen will stretch out slightly so that there are no big gaps left by the WBs pushing up but also in order to get wide CB, WB and AM all down the flank and really stretch the game out, move the ball out to the side so that Chelsea’s press is forced wide and opens up more room for Luiz to drop deeper than the wide CBs and avoid being pressed, giving him more time on the ball when he gets it. When the ball is moved about we have the option of the wide CBs looking to play the ball to the WB and introduce the overload in wide areas where we feel Chelsea will be most vulnerable, their wingers aren’t hard working and their FBs both suspect defensively, we can run at them and open up gaps that Busquets and Vidal have to try and fill, which lets Koke and co take over. When we counter we have Koke in CM today, he knows this aggressive counter from deep so well, he can carry the ball and he can pick passes, but he’s also clinical higher up the field, he makes excellent runs, so he can drag the two CMs out to the wide areas to allow our inside forwards more space, or he can switch the ball to the flank quickly, as well as making late runs, knowing that he has the energetic Wanyama as cover, constantly in position to snuff out counters quickly. The WBs will look to get forward whenever we win the ball, overlapping and stretching the defence out, forcing the opposition FBs backwards into more defensive positions where they can’t counter as quickly and have to play to the weak part of their games. Aurier look to use his direct running and pace to keep overlapping and stretching the game, acting as a foil for Carrasco and likely as a spare man in attacks. Marcelo can get the ball wide and then look to come infield with his trickery or by playing quick passes with the CMs or the attackers, his penetrating runs provide us with something different and a player who is always willing to break from deep to get in behind the opposition backline, where his marker won’t track him and he can get to the byline and pull the ball back. Carrasco and Griezmann play in the half space, neither out wide nor in the hole, they occupy the positions between, roaming where they can effect the game in the way they like, Griezmann linking midfield to attack and then looking to get into the box to get on the end of balls in/through and Carrasco occupying defenders with his trickery and pace, particularly running at Rodriguez as much as possible. We introduce the two AM’s into the spaces between FB and central players where they can overload and bully the players that others are attacking(especially the opposition FBs/WBs in the initial build up phase) or occupy the vacant spaces between lines and players where once they receive the ball they will have time and space to turn which makes these two very dangerous. Aubameyang leads the line, he jumps from hounding Busquets to making those runs that will stretch one CB out from his comfort zone, if he can get on 4 one and in a foot race from a David Luiz ball over the top, theres only going to be one winner. He looks to offer quick link up, one touch to keep the counters flowing, always with the end aim of getting in the goal scoring positions.

Subs:

If Winning: Fabregas for Carrasco 70’, 3-5-2, with Fabregas coming into midfield to calm our performance down, give it an element of control and pick those killer passes on the break. Danilo for Koke 75’, extra power into midfield to keep them out of it. Terry for Marcelo 80’, Azpilicueta LWB, Terry into defence, make sure everything is cleared away.

If Drawing: Pedro for Carrasco 70’, gets between opposition defenders more, perfect for diagonal balls from Luiz. Fabregas and Danilo for Griezmann and Koke 80’, solid base to give Fabregas the space to keep picking out runs from Pedro and Auba.

If Losing: Fabregas for Azpilicueta 60’, 4-3-3. Pedro for Carrasco 70’. Chicharito for Koke 75’, 4-4-2.

---------------------- Handanovic
---------- J.Tah ------- Javi.M ----- Laporte
Carvajal ----- Gundogan --- Matuidi -------- Ghoulam
------------ De Bruyne ---------- Martial
--------------------- Lewandowski

Subs: Navas, Alves, Guerreiro, Fernandinho, Rabiot, Coman, Mandzukic

3-4-3, counter attack. We sit deep and defend as a compact XI, breaking with pace when we regain the ball as our fb's and front three fly forward.

Today we defend as a unit and attack as a unit, structured and narrowing passing lanes in defence to enforce errors whilst creating overloads in attack within a instance when on the break, as many if not more attackers getting forward then they have defenders.

Carvajal and Ghoulam integral to how we play. As we break I want our central midfield duo to sit in and remained disciplined allowing our fullbacks to burst forward and stretch the opposition.

Martial comes into the side, can use his acceleration and speed to break and start many a counter attack today, platform for a quick transition as he carries the ball forward and leaves defenders in his wake, allowing others more time and space when in support.

With our CM's sitting in providing a base and three CB's at the back, it gives our attackers the flexibility to get forward whilst we remain solid at the back, in short giving us a great balance and fluidity to our play.

Hit them hard and fast, quick movement and numbers in attack. Width outwide and options through the middle, clinical in the final third.

If a quick counter is not on, we should play more possession based. Passing the ball out from the back and playing at a high tempo, creating lanes and getting De Bruyne to come short and dictate the pace. One FB goes forward at a time, we probe and look to get it wide, runners on and off the ball and in the box. At times we look to vary our play but always maintain that we keep numbers back to cover the danger of a swift opposition counter.

It starts with Handanovic at the back, very good with his hands and feet. Fast and precise with his distribution to ensure we are controlling possession and initiating attacks quickly.

Quick and nimble CB’s either side of Martinez, stay tight at the back and makes themselves available for pass. At times Martinez can step out and get his foot on the ball or come short and collect from Handanovic, looking to thread a ball through to the midfielders/flanks or simple long ball over the top looking for Lewandowski to hold up play and bring others into the game.

Our wing-backs stay wide, looking to link with our midfielders and stretching the opposition. When our mf'ers are on the ball we need to give them as much passing options as possible, create lines and pass and move with the aim of getting it into our attackers pronto, overlap consistently on the flanks and work opportunities inside linking with KDB/Martial.

Offensively, our midfielders sit deep and spread the play at a quick tempo, patient but penetrative. The duo provide a shield, if they are being vigorously pressed they know the next pass on before they receive the ball, good at working in restrictive space also. Matuidi at times maraud and use his burst of energy to get us moving forward, very physical and able to shield the ball in tight areas.

Defensively, need to oppress their midfielders and not allow them to adventure forward, roam or pick a pass in space. Matuidi and Gundogan need to work their socks off and cover every blade of grass, high on stamina. Man-mark, If they want to find an attacker make sure it is with a high degree of risk of losing possession, if they move the ball backwards, we re-organise and repeat as a well organised unit.

Off the ball, we revert to more of a defensive structured unit. Lewa, KdB and Martial getting behind the ball in our half and as a unit we cut out passing lanes. 5 in defence, 4 in mf and Lewa the man to press the ball from the front.

When they enter our half, 10 players behind the ball and press with high intensity. When we press, press as a unit. High workrate, 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.

Our structure and unit behind the ball should enforce the opposition to take risk as they press to find an attacker, allowing us to take advantage and transition to counter when we regain possession.

Throughout we should frustrate them with our organisation, stay rigid and allow their attackers little involvement in the game so they have to come deeper to get involved, make them play in front of us and ensure we prevent runs in behind as much as possible.

In mf/attack we need to counter their press especially in central areas, diamond in midfield with Martinez dropping anchor playing slightly ahead of the other two CB's when on the ball, 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 and the more time we get to take a breather from defending.

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, strong support from attackers. Link constantly with teammates and run in-behind, dominate the CB's aerially and press from the front.

Subs:
65th minute - If winning - (3-4-3)
Rabiot > Matuidi
Guerreiro > Ghoulam
Rabiot & Guerreiro look to provide more energy, we stay compact and continue to counter going forward.

70th minute – if draw - (4-3-3 wide)
Fernandinho > Laporte
Alves > Carvajal
Fernandinho sits in and allows Gundogan and Matuidi to play with freedom as a trio in midfield, width from FB's and KdB (RW) and Martial (LW)

75th minute - If losing (4-4-2 - direct)
Alves > Carvajal
Mandzukic > Laporte
Coman > KdB
4-4-2, Mandz on to support Lewa in attack, plenty of width with Coman and Alves on, get crosses into the box and punt the ball forward from the back.

C – Lewandowski
FK’s – De Bruyne / near - Lewandowski
Corners – Gundogan/ De Bruyne
Pens – Lewandowski

ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1

———————————— 13. Oblak
24. Vrsaljko — 31. Benatia — 17. Boateng — 32. Digne
————— 6. Strootman —— 19. Modric
10. Robben ————— 22. Mkhitaryan ————— 7. Bernardo
———————————— 9. Ibrahimovic

SUBS: 1. Chesney, 4. Jones, 23. Eriksen, 29. Xhaka, 19. Falcao, 22. Castillejo, 18. Benzema

Captain: Arjen Robben
Corners: Luka Modric
Crossing free-kicks: Luka Modric
Shooting free-kicks: Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Penalties: Edinson Cavani

We stick to a 4-2-3-1 counter attack and again a near full strength side with Strootman coming into the side bringing his vision with him, helping to dominate the midfield against a strong midfield, taking control with his experience especially when providing a threat from deep with his passing. 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 Boateng Benatia Modric and Strootman will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. Modric and Strootman will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line while Benatia will mark their striker tightly with Boateng sweeping behind if he does get through. Mkhitaryan 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 Vrsaljko and Digne 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 Modric and Strootman 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. Modric 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, nobody is somewhat free of defensive responsibility especially under pressure as both Bernardo and Robben 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 Bernardo and Robben means the formation automatically becomes a 4-3-3 when in possession. Their pace and intelligence in making runs will cause havoc for the the opposition defence and their records speak for themselves when creating and taking chances.

Ibrahimovic 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 Bernardo, Mkhitaryan and Robben to create and take chances.

SUBS:

If winning after 75 mins bring on Xhaka for Mkhitaryan. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover in a 433.

If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Eriksen for Strootman. Fresh creativity and legs. Pace will also cause problems. Modric will drop back to DM to control the game while Eriksen and Mkhitaryan will dominate from behind Ibrahimovic as well as adding an extra goal threat in a 4-1-4-1. Robben on right and Bernardo on the left.

If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Benzema for Mkhitaryan. Attacking 4-4-2 with Modric and Eriksen in the middle and Robben on the right Bernardo on the left. Ibrahimovic and Benzema up front.

Comment deleted by Article Creator

whoops, disregard that set

--------------------Lloris
Clyne----Hummels-----Godin-----Bertrand
-----------------Krycowiak
-----------Radja------------Pjanic
Di Maria----------------------------------Firmino
-------------------Suarez
Subs
Patricio, Matip, Wendell, Henderson, Ozil, Brandt, Kane


Lloris is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will claim it without trouble, he and the defence have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance being conceded When he has the ball he will look to offload quickly in the direction of the front 5 to get those quick counters started.

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.


Radja is in today, with the focus on him working with Krych and Pjanic using their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, looking to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. when we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 3 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player around them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.

Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery to make runs between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Suarez, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece due to the ability of our set piece takers. When the opposite wide man has the ball, the wideman without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.



When Suarez is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead of the defender and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul, his unpredictable style when on the ball will look to cause a bit of doubt in the minds of the defenders as he has a knack of bouncing it off peoples shins and it landing in a perfect position for himself to create a chance for himself or others. He also has a knack of being the first to react to get onto rebounds or parries and taking those one touch chances.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.



Set Pieces


Corners - Pjanic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out inbetween the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Suarez work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Firmino and Di Maria flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Krychowiak looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him creating less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Radja takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, he will also occasionally provide the short corner 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 - Henderson for Radja - 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 - Gaspar for Di Maria and Brandt for Firmino - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Ozil for Radja - Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.

If Losing



70 Mins - Kane, Matip and Ozil for Bertrand, Krych and Clyne - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and we go all out attacking for a way to get back into the game.

--------------------Lloris
Clyne-----Hummels-----Godin-----Wendell
----------Casemiro-------Radja
Salah--------------Ozil-----------Di Maria
--------------------Kane
Subs
Patricio, Pepe, Bertrand, Tolisso, Brandt, Suarez, Firmino


Lloris is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will claim it without trouble, he and the defence have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance being conceded When he has the ball he will look to offload quickly in the direction of the front 5 to get those quick counters started.


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 Kane is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead of the defender and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul. He 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 energy 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 and Kane 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, Salah and Di Maria flit 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 to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Radja takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt and occasionally providing the short option to try and draw 2 defenders out of the box.





Free Kicks - Wendell takes Direct FK's



For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners





Penalties - Kane is the designated taker.

Subs



If Winning


70 mins - Firmino for Di Maria - 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 - Tolisso for Ozil and Bertrand for Salah - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Tolisso for Casemiro - Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.

If Losing



70 Mins - Pepe, Firmino and Tolisso for Wendell, Casemiro and Clyne - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and we go all out attacking for a way to get back into the game.

Comment deleted by Article Creator

Comment deleted by Article Creator

----------------------- Hart ----------------------

Cancelo -- S.Mustafi -- Koscielny -- Filipe.L

------------------ Schneiderlin ------------------

Cuadrado -- Florenzi -- Chalobah -- Perrotti

----------------------- Icardi ---------------------

Rajkovic, Keane, Roque Mesa, Prowse, Calhanoglu, Walcott, Wilson

All about possession today and keeping it simple,pass and move and wait for the opportunity to hit them on the break, we have some good footballers on show today, some vastly experienced so keep it down, wait for the moment and set our forwards free. This formation worked to an extent v Stoke, so even if Liverpool are man for man better we just work our socks off today, high energy performance, close everyone down quickly and do our very best.

Solid back 5 with Hart in goal, a super shot stopper, always on his toes ready. Is extremely confident and that will ooze out to the rest of the team. Always look to get the team away quickly on the counter by shipping it out wide to the wingers early. Close down forwards early and reduce there shooting angles.

Mustafi and Koscielny know each other well and have a good relationship which always helps at centre back. Mustafi picks up the danger man, stay tight on him and watches his every move, even when we attack Mustafi must always be prepared to get onto to him quickly just in case, be solid in the tackle, hit him early but don't dive in. Koscielny sits spare, if they have two up top then he goes for the second striker, if its just one then he sits just off Mustafi in case the forward breaks free, both must dominate today don't give the forwards an inch. Luis sits in which allows Cancelo to attack, putting us into a 352 of some sort then Luis simply moves to LCB and Cancelo pushes on this will see Cuadrado move inside. Anyway in our line up to start Cancelo is allowed to support Cuadrad, get up and to his outside allowing him to move inside as the two look to push there LB back and cause havoc, look to fire in a cross to Icardi or if Icardi/Florenzi in space a simple ball inside. Luis on the other hand will take the ball to half way and look to get Perrotti away with his pace and look to put a ball in between the defenders for him to chase. He sits back most of the time however as Cancelo will be on the attack.

We keep it simple at the back nothing silly, Cancelo doesn't have a free reign to attack, but he knows when and when not to.

Morgan just in front, he patrols that area, a big player for us today, a lot will go through him, wether its the defenders passing forward or the midfielders passing back to him to start again. He can supply some very good balls, but with there AM on him he must do it quickly, an intelligent player so will know where the pass is going before he gets the ball, mostly just keep it simple but if he sees a long pass on either out wide or to Icardi up top then ping it to them. Defending then there AM will be dangerous, so again look at his positioning make sure it is correct and don't allow the player to control the game, get right on top of him, so he panics and puts away a silly pass.

Florenzi and Chalobah ahead of him and fantastic ball players, both can attack and defend well, so again when we are in possession always go looking for the ball, quick one touch passing letting Liverpool chase them around the park and tire themselves out, if it has to go backwards to get us forwards then so be it, Morgan is the re to start again, a quick turn with the ball will not only take there player out of it but it will also give them room to get there head up and see where the front three are then its up to them to make sure the pass goes straight to them, both similar players and will be allowed to make a move forward into the box, but II always want one just holding back, in case they break or the ball comes out, both can shoot from distance so if the opportunity arises then go for it. When ddefending then along with Morgan these three powerhouses will look to dominate the Liverpool midfield.

Cuadrado & Perotti are skillfull and like to take on there man so there fullbacks are up against it, Perrotti may have to do a lot on his own asLuis wont be upp that much, however his pace allows this, Luis will look to play the pass that allows Perrotti to use his skill to beat his man and get down the line and take on the RB, use those inside to give and go and get right into the mixer and give to Florenzi/Icardi or go for goal. Cuadrado and Cancelo will have fun down our left, Cancelo will time his runs down the right so Cuadrado will look for him so he can pass it passed there LB for Luis to run onto, once this is done Cuadrado can shuffle inside to make himself available again. If Cancelo isn't up then Cuadrado will be looking to get in early crosses for Icardi and Florenzi to run at.

Both must help out defensively, we set up with the two banks of 4 with Morgan in between them, when we do this it make it very difficult for Liverpool to break down, we chase down everything, we don't give them any time on the ball, this is a must win today, so 100% from every single player out there.

Icardi is a top striker, he sits on the last man all the time, he runs the line looking to ruffle up there defenders if he has a marker then look to drag him about and out of position for other players to drift into when we attack. He has a great eye for goal so if he gets a chance he will bury it, good in the air too so time his jumps and if he gets up before the CB then get a good powerful head onto it.

4-1-4-1 looks defensive but we have the players to hurt them at times when we attack it will be 352/343, but we must be professional today and committed, this is a must win for us and Liverpool are looking for CL so they will be on it today too, they have a better team now so we cant chase them, they chase us and we use our experience all round the pitch to tire them out, pass and move, possession football and we hopefully will prevail!

Captain - Koscielny
Penalties - Icardi
Free Kicks - Florenzi
Corners - Wingers

Subs

Losing -
65 Mins - Calhanoglu for Chalobah he goes to No.10 4231
75 Mins - Walcott for Perrotti, Hakan goes to LW, Walcott up top to hurt them with his pace
80 Mins - Luis moves to LCB, Cancelo to RM, Cuadrado off for Calum Wilson 343

Winning -
75 Mins - Jankto for Chalobah, likes to keep hold of the ball and spray it about
85 Mins - Walcott for Icardi , chases everyone down

Drawing -
70 Mins - Walcott for Cuadrado, Jankto for Chalobah
80 Mins - Calhanoglu for Perrotti

---------------------Forster-----------------------
-------van Dijk-----Kompany-----D.Blind--------
-----------------Kante-------Matic-----------------
Coleman--------------------------------Robertson
-----------------------Willian-----------------------
----------------Lukaku------Moussa----------------

Pickford, Mahrez, Tierney, Wilshire, Garcia, Lamela, Kelechi

Forster is a top notch goalkeeper, a very big barrier to try and pass, and also for such a big lad he can get down to low shots very quickly, his reaction time is very fast. His big frame almost fills the goals, and he has not conceded many this season so will look to continue his fine form. Out for crosses and they are dealt with with ease.

We go with a 3 man defence with wingbacks today, Kompany is central to our defence, he is superb at marking, tackling and bringing the ball out, a very modern day centre back who can play football, he can start attacks from the back and look to play some good balls forward, when we defend we will look to him to mark the main striker out of the game. With van Dijk and Blind either side this will form a tough barrier to try and break down especially with Kante and Matic ahead of them, they will help out the wingbacks and Kompany, if they play two strikers then they can pick up too, if Kompany is marking the main one then they will decide which one of them picks up the second one depending where he is, we will not be dragged about out of position and they are all experienced enough to know this. Also look to help out when there wingers and fullbacks come forward, one who isn't marking will go out to help. van Dijk/Kompany goes up for set pieces, leaving Kante and one wingback in there place. All our CBs are comfortable with the ball at feet so can bring it out if possible and in no trouble.

Robertson and Coleman are very important today in our defence and attack, first of all when we defend, if they attack with fullbacks then allow the winger to move onto Blind/van Dijk, its not very often we see sides pushing both fullbacks on so the opposite fullback will come in to become a spare defender picking up elsewhere. When we attack they will get down the line and look to get in crosses to the strikers quite early, or play it into Willian who will then push it forward. If they see space to cut in and go for goal then they can do so.

Kante and Matic still the partnership in front of the defence, this time Matic sits just in front of Kompany allowing Kante time and space to do what he does best and run about like a mad man! He does this with great effect tho, especially in the middle third of the pitch, he will close down and press anyone with the ball in that area and more often that not he will get his man, however on the off chance he doesn't Matic will be there to sort it out, when we are defending it will be 3-4 formation with Willian just ahead so this will be very difficult to break down. When they have the ball however, Kante and Matic aren't the kind to launcha 40/50 yard pass so look to get it to the wingbacks or Willian with nice short passes to get us moving forward.

Willian central is important, the way we play will be quick and direct so he must be on the ball to get the ball turn quickly and either ship it wide or straight through to our strikers, he will be closed down early too so he must think of the pass before he even gets the ball so he is a step ahead of every one else, an intelligent player so knows the best option and will look to cut open the defence wether its down to the bye line for Robertson/Coleman to chase or look to split the defender open for the two up front.

And those two very prolific in form strikers must form a quick partnership as we have two very good strikers waiting there turn. Both powerful men who wont be bully, they will look to always have the defenders on there toes looking to split them open with very clever runs for Willian to pass the ball into, or they will be in the box awaiting a cross coming in from wide, both brilliant in the air so if the get up early enough and attack the ball against a static defender then a good chance they will get there first. They must move about that's is imperative today as they have top notch defenders and wont get much change out of them if they just stand around expecting things to happen for them, they must make them happen!

More attacking, but still strong, look to stifle there midfield and stop them playing football, if we can do this and get the ball to our quick players out wide or Willian then we have a chance with our strikers on show today hopefully

Captain is Virgil van Dijk
Willian s our set piece taker
and Penalties will be Lukaku

Substitutes are as follows

If we are losing then Lamela will replace Robertson on the left on 70 minutes and Mahrez will replace Coleman on the right, Kelechi will come on for Moussa also we go with wingers instead of wingbacks

If we are drawing then on 70 minutes Kelechi for Moussa and Wilshire for Matic, Kante becomes the DM

If we are winning then Wilshire for Moussa on 70 minutes we go 3241

Arsenal vs Spurs

Injuries:
Buffon, Lyanco, Jorginho, Gotze

………………………………………….Butland…………………………………
Hysaj……………..Romagnoli……………Chiellini………………Sandro
………………………….Marchisio…………Hamsik………………………..
Berardi…………………………………………………………………….Mertens
…………………………….Higuain……………Gabbiadini…………………..

Subs: Macey, Barzagli, Allan, De Sciglio, Zaha, El Shaarawy, Milinkovic-Savic

North London derby big weekend and we go back to our 4-4-2 roots, we may get out-muscled in midfield but we have the better ball players in there, so our footballing brain will soon wear out the physicality of our opponents.

We’re gonna play possession football today but not in a Barca style where we move it for moving it sake, our Cb’s are good on the ball and will be used in the early stages of the build-up so we move it cleverly fast and sharp one or two touch passing, draw Spurs out of position and then hit them hard and fast on the break.

I know the 4-4-2 is seen as old fashioned but for me it covers all the bases, a strong defence, a midfield that can dictate the game with 2 flying wingers that will keep Spur’s full-backs pushed back, and most importantly two front men bang in form and pretty much guaranteeing goals.


Butland: comes in today to replace Buffon, whilst not on his level he is a very talented shot-stopper and sitting behind a pretty strong defence, he won’t let us down as long as he sticks to the basics.

Hysaj and Sandro are two very competent full-backs both are decent enough defensively but both possess a lovely engine and turn of pace so they’ll be encouraged to get forwards today and really stretch out the spurs midfield.
Chiellini and Roma – not sure if Fud will go one up top like he so often does, if he does then Chiellini is that man’s shadow with Roma as the insurance policy as the spare man, if Fud surprises us with two-uptop then Chiellini takes seniority and picks “his man”

Marchisio and Hamsik may not give us a pure enforcer but in this system we don’t need one, we’re playing on the front and are going to take the game to Spurs, both men get stuck in anyway but bring great technique and a goal scoring threat with them, so both will go box to box today as we look to press Spurs hard when they do get the ball.
Berardi and Mertens both very quick and both have that goal scoring touch, neither are your traditional out and out winger but that’s ok, they go wide and look to come inside attack the gaps between FB & CB, leaving space for our Full-backs to run the line, we want to overwhelm Spurs and take this game out of their reach, keeping them hard and fast out-wide we have clinical strikers so we should be able to keep them pegged back.

Higuain and Gabbiadini, two predatory strikers, both carry a decent physical presence, granted it’s not a natural pairing but I think it can and will work, we’ll get them service and they’ll thrive…Gabbi gets involved more so he’ll be the man to drop off slightly whilst Higgy will split the two CB’s

Subs 65 mins just for fresh legs:
Allan > Hamsik

El Egypt > Berardi