-----------------------Patricio----------------------

Ivanovic----J.Stones------Jagielka-----Targett

-----------Sissoko-----Blind-----Morgan----------

Willian--------------Llorente--------------Gaitan

Dragowski, Van Dijk, Wanyama, Prowse, Odegaard, Milik, Rondon

We are going to try a new approach today, we just dont score enough goals to win matches, so against a top quality Leceister side we go with an adventurous 433 formation.

With Patricio behind the back four this is a solid defence, with the keeper shouting when he comes out for the ball, he will punch clear what he cant catch and look to release the ball early

Jagielka takes the leadership role again at the back, he sits spare whilst John Stones picks up the CF, Jagielka will lead the whole back 4 and they will go by his instructions. While Stones is picking up the CF, Jagielka takes a step off him as he will be mindful of the CF if he gets away from Stones or indeed any other attacker that comes through. Stones needs to be strong and mature in this role, he cannot be bullied by the CF, although he is a quick, powerful boy. Also by mature I mean he must make desicions quickly to where he has to be, that is where Jagielka helps him, The two have formed a powerful partnership with no messing. They attack all high balls and clear danger from ball whipped in.

Ivanovic and Targett are allowed to attack, a big game for young Matt Targett but one I hope he takes full on and puts pressure on Baines. When the fullbacks attack I want them up supporting our wingers getting beyond the wide forwards to give us some width and get to the bye line, so Willian and Gaitan can cut in and support Llorente. Whip in crosses for Llorente to attack. When defending the lines, push there wingers out wide and stay on feet, dont dive in, this will force the player back or into a space they cant get out of.

We have a new trio in the centre of the park but a three that we feel can gel quickly, Blind central sits in and watches there attacking midfielder whilst Sissoko and Schneiderlin have a bit more room to advance into dangerous areas and support the forwards. However, we are up against a potent midfield and attack so when we are retreating the 3 must stick tight and not allow anyone through! All neat and tidy footballers so when are in possession we will look to pass it abput, short passing until there is a gap or Willian or Gaitan or indeed the fullbacks have found room, then we will look to get it into there feet..

Willian and Gaitan add the flair and pace to the wings along with the power we have centrally this is a dangerous combination for there back 4, look to take men on either play it down the wing and drive passed the full back with support from the fullbacks and whip in some dangerous crosses or play it inside to Morgan, Sissoko and Llorente and look for the one two so they can drive into the box and smash it goal wards, always driving at there defence, never giving them a moments rest when they are in possession. When we defend these two get back and make a strong midfield 5 not allowing there fullbacks to get anywhere passed the halfway line.

Llorente, a good outlet up front as he can not only take players on with his pace but is strong enough to hold off players to allow others to come in and support, especially Sissoko who will be up in support a lot, always looking to go for goal and two good feet, with support form Willian and Gaitan this is a very quick and powerul front three always driving as a trio at defenders with Sissoko in particular also in support.

Captain is Morgan Schneiderlin
Penalty taker is Ivanovic
Free Kicks is Gaitan
Corners - Wingers

Substitues

If we are winning then 75 minutes, Milik on for Llorente and Willian and Gaitan drop a little deeper, Milik will provide pace and power up front, on 80 minutes Wanyama will come on for Sissoko and sit in with Blind and Morgan.

If we are Losing then on 75 minutes Milik and Odegaard will come on for Sissoko and Llorente to give us a quick vibrant front two 4231 and wif we are still losing on 85 Rondon will come on for Targett and go up front with 3 defenders at the back

Drawing Milik on for Llorente on 70 minutes, Prowse for Sissoko on 80 Minutes and Odegaard for Gaitan on 80 as well

---------------------Buffon
Juanfran--Mustafi--Godin---Coentrao
-----------------Fernandinho
---------Fabregas-------Pjanic
Walcott--------------------------Firmino
-------------------Sturridge
Subs
Perin, Sakho, Baba, Henderson, Nasri, Candreva, Higuain

Tactical Overview
For the first 20 minutes of each half we are going to try and blitz the opposition, pressing them all over the pitch and using the pace in attack to try and catch them cold, then then settling down into a 3 quarter press allowing the opposition CB's and Keeper to have the ball as much as they want whilst still pressing the other areas of the pitch.



Keeper


When distributing the ball, he should look to keep it simple and play the simple pass. At crosses and set pieces, should look to punch clear towards our wingers rather than having to flap at pressurised catches.



Full Backs

Defensively the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, we want them to stop 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 wether to go with him. They won't put too many crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch or run to the byline and cut back passes along the ground with pace.

Centre Backs

They will generally play a slightly deeper line, looking to limit the space to get in behind them generally shuffling across to make it a back 3 if one full back is caught up the pitch, Godin will compete with the striker for the aerial balls played into him, with Mustafi concentrating on winning the 2nd ball. When the ball is on the floor, Mustafi will be the defender who looks to meet the striker looking to stifle his space and rush his decisions, with Godin making the covering runs. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should look to take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space and retain possession with the occasional long ball to the front 3 thrown in to use their pace and keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.

Centre Mids


The midfield 3 will be utilising their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, being key figures in the pressing game and always making themselves available for a pass when we are in the final third to shift their 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. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/AMs as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.

Wingers


When they are off the ball, the emphasis for both wingers will be to drift around combining with the other attackers to get little areas of space before using their pace 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 Sturridge, they should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a free kick or penalty. When the opposite winger has the ball, the winger 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 blocking the passing lines to the full backs as well as keeping track of them when they go forward.





Striker


When attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to face the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, he will be looking to get between the defender and the ball and then use his strength to make sure he stays ahead of the defender to create a chance/shot or draw a foul.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long.

Set Pieces


Corners - Fabregas takes the corners, the CB's go into the box, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Sturridge work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a freer run at the ball, Walcott and Firmino flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and bobbles around the area. Fernandinho looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving around the 6 yard box, looking to take a defender with him meaning more blocking for the keeper and one less man in the action area. Pjanic takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and occasionally providing the short option to try and draw 2 defenders out of the box.





Free Kicks - Pjanic takes Direct FK's



For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners





Penalties - Fabregas is the designated taker.





Subs



If Winning


70 mins - Baba for Firmino - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.




81 + 85 Mins - Henderson for Fabregas and Candreva for Walcott - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Henderson, Baba + Nasri for Fernandinho, Coentrao + Pjanic - Bring a bit more urgency into attacks.

If Losing



70 Mins - Higuain, Sakho and Nasri for Coentrao, Fernandinho and Juanfran - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and we go all out attacking for a way to get back into the game.

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

Aston Villa v PORTSMOUTH

Line Up:

-----------------------------Neuer
Alves----------Marquinhos-------Hummels---------Kurzawa
----------Rakitic----------Matuidi---------Moutinho
----------------Goetze------------------Silva
---------------------------Martinez

Captain: Neuer
Vice Captain: Hummels
Penalties: Jackson Martinez
Free Kicks: Goetze
Corners: David Silva

Substitutes: Horn; Bellerin; Amavi; Carrick; Goretzka; Sterling; Bacca

Game Plan:

Villa are a very capable side despite their less than impressive form of late and so, whilst we are confident that we can claim the 3 points here, we must be wary of the threats that they can pose.

We are lining up in a 4-3-2-1 formation with the intention of playing a short but crisp passing game with plenty of movement that will slice through the Villa defence. We want to play out from the back, and we have the right caliber of player to do that.

We have plenty of technically gifted players in our midfield whol will be looking to get forward at every opportunity and, with Alves and Kurzawa bombing down the wings in support, we will be looking to stretch out the Villa defence and take advantage of the gaps left.

We want to play a high tempo pressing game with our defensive line high up the pitch in order to squash any space that Villa could play in to. We feel we have enough pace and experience in our back line to play a high line without fears of being caught on the break. We want to close down the ball at every opportunity, not letting up all game and forcing Villa in to constant mistakes. The first line of defence will be Jackson Martinez. Every time Villa try to play the ball out from the back, Martinez will be there to close down the defender and steal the ball off him. If the ball evades Martinez, we will use Guardiola's 6-second rule of pressing. 6 seconds of high intensity pressing to take the ball from whomever has it. Should we not succeed in those 6 seconds, we will drop back and compact until we can regain the ball.

Our midfield will look to compact in the centre of the pitch and our full backs will shift inside slightly so that there will be no room to maneuver in the centre of the park. We want to keep Villa's attacks focused to the wings where we can crowd them out in numbers and force the ball off them.

Once in possession, we will look to bring the game back to basics and play effective pass and move football. There's no need for Hollywood passes, we will simply move the ball in short, sharp passes and look to move in to more space. Through this, we will aim to dictate the tempo of the game and keep Villa off the ball for extended periods of the game while we work our way up the pitch.

Up front, Jackson Martinez will have in interesting dual role. On the one hand, he will look to use his size and strength to play as a target man, coming deep and shielding the ball before playing in our midfield to rush forward. On the other hand, though, he will be looking to roam the length of Villa's back 4, looking to target weak areas in their defence and make it so that he can't be man marked. With the attacking prowess of our midfield, we will never be short of numbers up front if Martinez moves out wide.

Kurzawa and Alves will have important roles today in providing width for the team. Their primary objective will be to rush down the flanks, thus taking defensive priority away from the centre of the pitch, and look to get balls in to the box. Occasionally, they will cut inside and look to enter the box themselves but, for the most part, their jobs will be to make sure the ball gets on the head of Martinez.

In midfield, we have two superb creative players in Silva and Goetze who will be given free roles to move about the pitch, finding space and looking to play people in on goal. With Matuidi, Moutinho and Rakitic behind them, we have three sufficiently talented box-to-box midfielders who will relish the opportunity to get forward. We won't bother asking any of them to stay back - if we have the ball near their area, we want to overload with players and get ourselves a goal.


Substitutions:

70 minutes: Sterling for Goetze - Sterling will provide a greater goalscoring threat. He will roam around the pitch and attack from all angles.

75 minutes: Goretzka for Moutinho - Goretzka will be asked to play a holding role, affording greater protection to our defence while we either look for an equaliser or a winner.

80 minutes: Bacca for Martinez - A top quality goalscorer, Bacca will play on the last shoulder of a tired Villa defence and look to get one on one with the keeper.

------------------------Muslera
--Jedvaj---------------Miranda------------Dória
-----------------------Kranevitter
-------H. Herrera------------------Jorginho
Ferreira Carrasco--Denis Suárez----Felipe Anderson
--------------------------Vietto

Subs: Karius, Wimmer, Geis, Höjbjerg, Klaassen, González, Rolán

Captain: Miranda
Corners: Ferreira Carrasco (Gonzalez) / Felipe Anderson
Free Kicks: Felipe Anderson


From kick off we’ll have a ‘pressing’ 3-1-5-1 formation with the aim of playing a nice passing game and using our obvious pace to get the opposition on the back foot, with the ultimate aim of causing some serious damage to the City back line.

Muslera is a gifted composed keeper who commands his area, and distributes the ball in a very intelligent and effective manner.

The trio of Jedvaj, Miranda & Doria are composed defenders who will look to play a low risk, sensible defensive game. There is no need for risk taking, as they will find support from Kranevitter when required and they will always have plenty of options when looking to distribute the ball. All 3 are strong in the air and equally technically gifted with the ball at their feet.

In front of this defensive trio, Kranevitter will play as the defensive midfielder who if required will be comfortable in dropping deep and assisting our defence (a la Mascherano). Kranevitter is a great tackler, has a big engine and is also a great passer of the ball. He will keep the ball moving with neat tidy passing, whilst not doing anything too extravagant and fancy, and he is more than capable of getting stuck in the nitty gritty of things.

In front of Kranevitter we have Herrera and Jorginho who are both fine composed passing footballers. They will look to play a quick passing style of play, playing beautifully timed balls for Ferreira Carrasco on the right, Felipe Anderson on the left and Denis Suarez down the centre to run onto.

When we are on the back foot so to speak Herrera and Jorginho will drop much deeper and so on – technically becoming a 3-3-3-1 formation. We aim to use this flexibility to tinker with the formation according to how the game pans out.

Herrera and Jorginho have more than enough pace to get back into shape again and thwart any possible counters.

Ferreira Carrasco, Denis Suarez & Felipe Anderson have no defensive worries in this match, with our solid 3 defenders and 3 midfielders allowing this kind of freedom. They are purely here to batter opponents with wave and wave of tidy and varied pacy attacks. All three are extremely talented individuals with fantastic pace and skills. The ability to go past a player, take on defence and to play the sort of tricks that will wrong foot the opposition. They are as equally at home at making assists for Luciano Vietto and each other as they are at creating chances for themselves.

All 3 have tremendous engines and the intentions are to batter the opposition back line until they have no option but to submit to this constant attacking threat from the right, left and straight down the middle.

Luciano Vietto’s movement, technique and clinical finishing are hallmarks of his game, and whilst he is certainly quick, as the old adage goes the first two yards are in your head and Vietto’s intelligence and off the ball movement often allows him to steal a march on defenders. With licence to drop deep and combine with our 3 attacking midfielders expect some exciting interchanging attacking threats across the width of the pitch.


Subs:
70th minute: Derlis González on for Ferreira Carrasco
80th Minute: Klaassen on for Suarez

Subs are in many ways like for likes - but fresh legs in key attacking areas to keep the pressure on the opponents defence.

Rafael Varane
Jonny Evans
Nacer Chadli
Karim Benzema
Gabriel Suspended

----------------------Lolris
Carvajal----Ramos-----Dante------Marcelo
-----------------Coquelin
-----------Ozil-----------Modric
Ronaldo--------Bony-----------Draxler

Subs: Krul, Trippier, Cresswell, Krychowiak, Payet, Campbell, Illarra

Subs:
Krychowiak for Coquelin 70'
Payet for Ozil 75'

In today's game we are playing an attacking 4-3-3 formation. We want the win and we are gonna get it. We need to show the league why we are league champions and by God we are going to do that. We have had a poor start so far but today we will rise faster than when a man sees Katy Perry naked.

As team we will play super dooper quick. Daze the opposition. We need to be getting the ball to our pacey players. They will bring the players away from the positions thus allowing our other players to take advantage. This also means quick passing in order to keep the fast players in space.

Defensively we will play a high line and keep their forwards offside while trying to open up space for our faster players. This means our full backs will need to stick with our centre backs when we are off the ball. We will have a defensive midfielder who will stay just in front of our defence to protect them so we are not at a total weakness of being counter attacked.

Attacking wise we will get the ball into space and the fast players will take advantage. The full backs in an attacking sense will also help. We need to play quick passes, quick runs and quick changes of direction. We also need to allow a quick response to recover from mistakes.

If we are winning from the 70th minute I want us to start to keep the ball for longer periods and hold possession. Slow play right down and seriously time waste.

Positional Tactics

Our full backs defensively will stick in a high line with our centre backs. We need to trap our opposition offside making it hard for them to counter attack. However in times when it doesn't work they need to push the opposition back and reduce the space made available on this side of the pitch. They need to prevent the wingers from running in behind them and cutting inside of them. Offensively they will need to move forward with the ball and use up the space left by the opposition. When our wingers cut in, I want our full backs to take up the wide position and put the crosses in.

Our centre backs will be apart of this high line we are playing. Use their strength and pace to keep the opposition offisde and then clear the ball away. They must stay on guard for any potential runners and therefor close them off as soon as they get going. We need to limit the opportunity for them to find space by keeping goal side of them at all times. They need to use their height and strength to beat them off the ball. They also must be aware of any high balls into the box. Offensively only go up for corners.

We will play a defensive midfielder today who will protect the defence and hold up play. This means filling the gaps and creating a defensive wall to stop the opposition from breaking through. Coquelin must keep with the playmaker by discouraging him from moving into space, limit the chances he's able to create and keeping goal side of him at all times. Limit the available players for them, and force them to pass the ball back. Offsensively I will not allow Coquelin to go forward.

Modric will play further forward than normal to give us that extra option to open up the opposition and send Draxler and Ronaldo away. He needs to control play more by creating and forming the attacks. He should look to move forward to be the new option. His passing must be quick, slick and clever. He with Ozil will control our passing that allows the pacy players to take advantage of defensive friailties.

Our attacking midfielder will be Ozil who will look to run into space and finding the opportunity to change and dictate the game. He must force the opposition to open up space and allow the attacking players to break through. I want him to move about all across the centre and depending on move towards the right or the left to the ball. Defensively he must prevent people running forward and creating more ability for runs. He must try and collect the ball and release it to our wingers to form attacks since.

Our wingers need to use plenty of their skill, strength, power, pace and physicality to open up the opposition. I want them to force the attacks straight at them, bring the defenders out and then allow our attackers to take advantage. They must cut inside, run in from behind and cross the ball in so that our attacks don't end up predictable. Try and use our full backs as much as possible when attacking the opposition so that having to handle more than one player forces a mistake. Defensively they should fall back and help the full backs to defending and prevent the wingers from creating opportunities. Ronaldo should stay further forward as most players will look to leave the ball for him in the next attack.

Our striker needs to use their brain to workout how the defence works. They need to run at them using their strength and skill to cause nerves in their defence and force mistakes. The striker needs to open up space and find space as he is good at getting On the end of crosses and opportunities created. He needs to use his height to open the scoring and also use his power to force his way into goal scoring opportunities. Defensively I want him to move back to the centre circle and wait for the midfield to supply the ball to him in the event of an attack, if after 70 mins and we are winning I want the striker to move further back to control and protect the nation. We just time waste as much as possible.

Pens: Ronaldo
Long FK: Ronaldo
Short FcK: Ronaldo
Corners: Draxler
---------------------------------------------------------------------

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

---------------------- D.Ospina
Alderweireld ------- Nkoulou -------- Skrtel
--------------------- A Iturraspe
-------------- J.Milner ------ Pereyra
J.Navas ----------- Calhanoglu ----- D.Cheryshev
--------------------- C.Benteke

Subs: Foster, Rafael, Ogbonna, Fernando, Young, Ocampos, Huntelaar

A change in formation this week as we look to nullify our opponents threats and break with incisiveness.

3 in defence, we play deep looking to ensure their attackers have little opportunity to exploit us at the back with pace. We isolate their striker and cut off the supply.

We start with a packed midfield with a strong determination and energy to cover quick ground, we feel this is the area they are strongest however we need to get players behind the ball and crowd them out. Iturraspe drops anchor and keeps it simple, Milner, Pereyra and Hakan need to cover the space left between the defence and mf whilst ensuring we can transition from defence to attack within a instance and seriously hurt them on the counter.

J.Navas and D.Cheryshev allow us to play with real width, we need them to come back and put in a defensive shift however when attacking we use them as outlets to break with pace, hug the touchline and get deliveries into Benteke.

Ospina’s not a big name but he’s a top keeper that I have every faith in, I want him quick on his toes today looking to lead from the front and setting the example. He should look to make himself big at all times and narrow the angle down for the shooter, command his area with his notable presence, deal with set-pieces effectively and release swiftly and on point.

We go in with deep defensive line today with a strong emphasis on physical presence. Nkoulou plays in the heart of defence and has the responsibility of marking their main striker out the game, a type of cb that will revel in his role today as he is big, strong and powerful. I want a rugged approach looking to dominate with strength looking to imply it will be a real battle to get the better of him today. Alderweireld starts on the right and is the more mobile and tactically astute cb, I need him making the covering runs and watching for midfield runners from deep generally looking to keep everything in check and clearing danger from its first whiff, Skrtel plays similarly on the left, it’s imperative the wide cb’s get real support defensively from our wingers however as we feel the oppositions fb’s aren’t as skilled offensively we are more then capable of keeping their attacking threat from the flanks to a minimum.

An extra body comes into midfield today as we look to get our game plan into motion. The need for us to transition from defence to attack with speed is key today however not only that we need to tie their midfielders down and press with intensity whilst crowding out the space. A Iturraspe, J.Milner and Pereyra all have great traits however one they all have in common is work rate, I need them putting themselves about today and covering as much distance as possible looking to press with a real intensity and forcing them backwards. We work in conjunction to cut off the space and minimise the gaps. Calhanoglu is imperative to our side today as he forms as outlet of attack from deep, I feel with his phenomenal passing range we can release our wingers and Benteke early, a strong engine and burst of pace ensures we can offload to him and he can get us moving forward very swiftly whilst he is one of the best in the business striking from long-range and at free-kicks.

Navas and Cheryshev provide the width and look to get the service into Benteke, Navas is very nimble and has real pace so we to get him hugging that touchline and taking on his FB as much as possible. He can also look to come inside and link with our midfield looking to play quick 1-2’s and looking to get in behind and in space. Cheryshev continues on the left, a skilful and talented player that has the ability to make things happen, I want him very direct today looking to impose himself on the game as much as possible, linking with his FB and continually cutting inside and getting shots off.

Benteke starts up top and is very much the heart of the side, we feel with such an imposing outlet we can get at the opposition on a consistent basis. He is used to playing in sides like this where he may not necessarily get plenty of chances however when he does he will make sure he converts and makes it count. He will be integral to the side today as we look to play on the counter as we feel there are few like him that can hold the ball up so well and get others involved. He needs to be strong and defiant looking to get in and around the box hustling their defenders and causing as much nuisance and panic as possible.

Subs:
Fernando > Iturraspe - 60th minute – Fernando keep up the intensive pressing and shore up the midfield.

Ocampos > D.Cheryshev – 60th minute – Nimble and pacey, look to get at FB and link with others.

If losing – Huntelaar > Hakan – 80th minute – 2 up top, look to get back in the game.

C – J.Milner
FK’s – Calhanoglu
Corners – Milner
Pens - Benteke

ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1

———————————— 1. ter Stegen
26. Pizszcek — 4. Kompany — 21. Toprak — 3. Shaw
———————— 28. Khedira —— 19. Cazorla
6. Koke ——————— 8. Kroos ————— 11. Reus
————————————— 32. Tevez

SUBS: 31. Begovic, 5. Dier, 23. Can, 10. Sneijder, 13. Mkhitaryan, 7. Kagawa, 9. Lacazette

Captain: Marco Reus
Corners: Toni Kroos
Crossing free-kicks: Toni Kroos
Shooting free-kicks: Santi Cazorla
Penalties: Marco Reus

Little bit of a change up from last week, with ter Stegen back in goal and again a near full strength side with the experienced Toprak in for Smalling. Up against a strong opposition team today in what is a crucial game for Aston Villa’s chances at getting European football 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.

ter Stegen 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.

The first line of our formation is the defence, the full backs Pizszcek and Shaw 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 Khedira and Cazorla 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.

Our attacking midfield trio are absolutely crucial to the way we want to attack, Kroos is somewhat free of defensive responsibility as both Koke and Reus are very hard working and able to get up and down the pitch for 90 minutes, in defence it will become a 4-4-1-1 while the offensive ability and styles of Reus and Koke 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.

Tevez will play as the centre forward, his pace and energy will be crucial in pressurising the defensive midfielder of the opposition and he never stops running. When we obtain possession his first job is to get on the shoulder of the centre halves and make runs in behind and stretch the defence, this is crucial in creating gaps between the midfield and defence of the opposition for Reus, Koke and Kroos to create chances.

SUBS:

If winning after 80 mins bring on Can for Cazorla. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover.

If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Mkhitaryan for Khedira. Fresh creativity and legs. Kroos will drop back to DM to control the game and Mkhitaryan will playmake from behind Tevez as well as adding an extra goal threat.

If drawing or losing after 80 mins bring on Lacazette for Koke. More goal threat, plays closer to Tevez.

MANCHESTER UNITED v Stoke City

Injuries: Sokratis, Lukaku, Redmond

Handanovic
Zabaleta Subotic Howedes Gaya
Gundogan Strootman
Pedro Mata Turan
Lewandowski

Subs: Szczesny, Inigo, Gustavo, Cabaye, Ramsey, Teixeira, Zivkovic

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

Big game today as we attempt to get another win under our belts, tough match against Stoke, but we are going with the plan of dominating the midfield to give ourselves the best possible chance of success, we also have made some changes while keeping the same spine to the side, a few improvements compared to the previous setup which gives us a stronger attack. Handanovic in goal as our new number one, Zabaleta at right back to significantly improve us in that position, Gundogan, Strootman in midfield with Pedro, Mata and Turan providing support to Lewandowski upfront.

This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting three points today. Stoke have some class players in their side although we have some world class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front three with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a duo who can dictate the game in Gundogan and Strootman, and Mata ahead of them, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Pedro at RW and Arda Turan at LW both able to cut inside and get at the Stoke defence with Zabaleta/Gaya overlapping. Lewandowski 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.

Handanovic - 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 Lewandowski.

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

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

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

Pedro/Turan - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Stoke fullbacks and get crosses in, but both of you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Lewandowski with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Gundogan/Strootman/Mata, and capitalise on the space Lewandowski'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 Stoke defence, bring the ball to create space for others and look for the runs of Pedro/Turan/Lewandowski. Shoot if you get into position, also force the Stoke defenders to foul you when you're attacking as you're lethal from setpieces. Link with Lewandowski regularly.

Lewandowski - you will be expected to occupy the Stoke centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind.

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

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Mata off, Gustavo on. Change of formation, Gustavo plays deeper alongside Gundogan and Strootman in a flat 4-5-1, Pedro to RM with Turan at LM, absorb pressure and hit on the break.

If drawing: Strootman off, Ramsey on. Same system. Ramsey to CM alongside Gundogan, Zabaleta/Gaya to get forward more often. Get closer to Lewandowski to create chances.

If losing: Gaya and Strootman off, Ramsey and Zivkovic on. Switch to 3-1-4-2, Zabaleta - Subotic - Howedes the back three, Gundogan the deep playmaker, Pedro - Mata - Ramsey - Turan behind a front two of Zivkovic and Lewandowski. Push for goals in this must not lose game.

—————————————Courtois
Azpilicueta————Benatia———————Terry——Vrsaljko
——————————————Matic
————————-Vidal————————Verratti
Aubameyang—————————————————Griezmann
——————————————Costa

subs: Navas, Musacchio, Kondogbia, Garcia, Bellerabi, Muniain, Williams

Captain: John Terry
Free Kicks: Antoine Griezmann
Penalties: Arturo Vidal
Corners: Marco Verratti

We will look to dominate today, using our power and technical abilities to control the game high up the field, using the ball quickly to drag southampton around and make sure that Benteke remains isolated with little space.

Early on we press from the front, the attack and Vidal hurry their defence, two pressing, one closing off the nearest wide option and the other holding station a little deeper to cut off easy central passes, with Matic, Verratti and the FBs together ready for a second stage of pressing and keeping Southampton pegged in, FBs forcing their wingers right back, leave no time and space to pick their passes and make them rush the ball into the midfield area where we make it crowded and impossible to play through, first to every lose ball. Once the ball is played we trap Southampton in vertical spaces. If the ball is moved into wider areas then our midfield push across looking to keep things compact and surround Southampton on the flank, with the FB pushing up to shut off space, and the winger on that side coming across to help the FB, if their wingers cut in Matic, Verratti and Vidal are always there ready to close off the route to goal or a teammate, with Costa and the opposite winger closing off the pass into midfield, look to force them down the flank and cut the man on the ball off from his support, one v one our FBs can stop anyone, Vrsaljko in to give extra pace against Navas. When they attempt to get forward in the central third we defend in a narrow 4-5-1, Aubameyang and Griezmann narrow to the CMs and Costa as the first line of defence, pressing the deep midfielders, whilst the 5 man midfield make the game compact and surround Southampton in possession, FBs once again pushing up onto the oppositions wingers so we leave them no easy pass, all 5 midfielders and the FBs have high work rates and will look to make it impossible for Southampton to retain possession with this high energy pressing, winning it back as quickly as Southampton get the ball and pushing forward quickly. the FBs are always tight to their man in the early stages when Southampton have the ball unless they go infield off the ball, it is then the job of the midfield to deal with them and the FBs to stop any midfielder who roams wide, if all Southamptons players stay central the FBs push inside and we keep things narrow. Terry man marks the Benteke, with Benatia helping to keep him tightly marked and isolated, in uncomfortable circumstances and cut off from his support with help from the FBs and midfield, he doesnt have great hold up play under these circumstances, if we keep him isolated we stop Southamptons big threat.

Defending as a unit high up means we can attack as a unit high up, looking to maintain possession using pace and power upfront to create openings. Lots of rotation in attack with Griezmann coming central and Vidal roaming wide and Griezmann/Aubameyang using the space he vacates or Vidal running beyond Costa, all of which will give a great fluidity to our play today. It starts from the back with Terry and Benatia having the distribution to keep us on the front foot, especially mopping up long balls when Southampton attempt to break out, getting the ball wide or into midfield and putting us straight onto the attack. Matic will sit in the midfield, he’s excellent at getting in position where we attack, just behind the play ready to step in if the ball is lost and recovering possession immediately, it is important here that the FB on the opposite flank is narrow here so he can step in if Southampton move it into space on the opposite side to where we attack, Matic is quick to cover any space centrally but he needs the FB close enough to not leave a massive gap, something Benatia and Terry also cover when they step up. Verratti will be the playmaker, feeding the forwards and finding the spaces to move the ball into, always looking to keep us going forward, with Vidal the engine, rampaging through the field to find spaces. One FB attacks, usually Azpi as we target the opposition left, with them looking to stretch the game out and open the flanks up so our wide men can play between the lines and between defenders, using the movement of the front 3 to cause havoc.

We look to create a cushion and then kill the game by controlling possession and defending deeper, allowing them possession in the midfield when they have the ball, keeping them at arms length where they can’t hurt us. We will defend from half way at this point and in a 4-5-1. Costa presses the DMs , looking to slow their passing game down whilst the midfield change to pressing space rather than the man, looking to plug all the gaps when Southampton come forward. The midfield will stay compact as will the back 4 in order to leave no space centrally, Vidal, Griezmann, Aubameyang and Verratti covering space with Matic just a little deeper stoping Southampton from playing between the lines. FB and CB keep together, with the FB only pushing out when Southampton try and introduce some width, we make sure we have a massive wall around our area. In the deep defensive set up their instructions when facing an opponent is the same as in the high press, always make sure they stand up and don’t let the opponent have the ball. Hit them on the break, attack the space down the sides of Southampton with Aubameyang and Griezmann.

Subs:

If Winning: Kondogbia for Verratti 70’, completely over power the midfield. Garcia for Griezmann 75. Williams for Costa 80’, extra pace on the break.

If Drawing: Garcia for Verratti 70’, we want him to push up and support Costa, allowing us to focus our attacks more centrally, Garcia causes lots of problems in the box. Vrsaljko and Azpilicueta off for Bellerabi and Musacchio 75’, 3 at the back, Aubameyang can go central and Bellerabi outwide, the wingers must continue the FBs job of pressing high up, Aubameyang, Garcia and Costa will press as a 3 with Vidal and Matic in behind.

If Losing: As above, triple change on 65’.

__________________Muslera
_______Schär______Miranda______Dória
_________________Kranevitter
_________Herrera___________Jorginho
Ferreira Carrasco__Óliver Torres__Felipe Anderson
____________________Vietto

Subs: Karius, Jedvaj, Höjbjerg, Halilovic, De Arrascaeta, González, Calleri

Captain: Miranda
Corners: Ferreira Carrasco (Calleri) / Felipe Anderson
Free Kicks: Felipe Anderson


From kick off we’ll have a ‘pressing’ 3-1-5-1 formation with the aim of playing a nice passing game and using our obvious pace to get the opposition on the back foot, with the ultimate aim of causing some serious damage to Newcastle’s back line.

Muslera is a gifted composed keeper who commands his area, and distributes the ball in a very intelligent and effective manner.

The trio of Schär, Miranda & Doria are composed defenders who will look to play a low risk, sensible defensive game. There is no need for risk taking, as they will find support from Kranevitter when required and they will always have plenty of options when looking to distribute the ball. All 3 are strong in the air and equally technically gifted with the ball at their feet.

In front of this defensive trio, Kranevitter will play as the defensive midfielder who if required will be comfortable in dropping deep and assisting our defence (a la Mascherano). Kranevitter is a great tackler, has a big engine and is also a great passer of the ball. He will keep the ball moving with neat tidy passing, whilst not doing anything too extravagant and fancy, and he is more than capable of getting stuck in the nitty gritty of things.

In front of Kranevitter we have Herrera and Jorginho who are both fine composed passing footballers. They will look to play a quick passing style of play, playing beautifully timed balls for Ferreira Carrasco on the right, Felipe Anderson on the left and Óliver Torres down the centre to run onto.

When we are on the back foot so to speak Herrera and Jorginho will drop much deeper and so on – technically becoming a 3-3-3-1 formation. We aim to use this flexibility to tinker with the formation according to how the game pans out.

Herrera and Jorginho have more than enough pace to get back into shape again and thwart any possible counters.

Ferreira Carrasco, Óliver Torres & Felipe Anderson have no defensive worries in this match, with our solid 3 defenders and 3 midfielders allowing this kind of freedom. They are purely here to batter opponents with wave and wave of tidy and varied pacy attacks. All three are extremely talented individuals with fantastic pace and skills. The ability to go past a player, take on defence and to play the sort of tricks that will wrong foot the opposition. They are as equally at home at making assists for Luciano Vietto and each other as they are at creating chances for themselves.

All 3 have tremendous engines and the intentions are to batter the opposition back line until they have no option but to submit to this constant attacking threat from the right, left and straight down the middle.

Luciano Vietto’s movement, technique and clinical finishing are hallmarks of his game, and whilst he is certainly quick, as the old adage goes the first two yards are in your head and Vietto’s intelligence and off the ball movement often allows him to steal a march on defenders. With licence to drop deep and combine with our 3 attacking midfielders expect some exciting interchanging attacking threats across the width of the pitch.


Subs:
70th minute: Calleri on for Ferreira Carrasco
80th Minute: Halilovic on for Óliver Torres

Subs are in many ways like for likes - but fresh legs in key attacking areas to keep the pressure on the opponents defence.

Comment deleted by Article Creator

-------------------Romero--------------------
Caceres---Mbemba---M.Ginter---Criscito
------------Carvalho---Wilshire-------------
A.Traore---------Barkley-----------Lavezzi
--------------------Yilmaz--------------------

Batalla, De Vrij, Veretout, Sigurðsson, Wellbeck, Austin, Lichtsteiner

Up against it this week so gone for a solid line up with obvious talent up front, Caceres comes in for Lichtsteiner to give us a more 'defensive' RB

Caceres and Criscito are not the most attacking fullbacks this gives us a solid structured back 4 who wont give much away, sit in a bank of four, be determined to get to every ball, get right into the forwards of Everton and look to really frustrate them. Attack sporadically, where we are in no danger at all, but be on yer toes as they are very quick on the counter, the cants.
Mbemba and Ginter come in as both are quick and we need that today, there striker will move about so positional awareness from the pair is vital, I dont want this bank of four ripped apart, so zonal marking comes into play, the two CBs have to be vocal and speak to each other throughout, the CB closest to the CF will pick him up, keep him on his wrong side and as far away from the danger area. Clear all high balls, no feckin about today lads !

Carvalho is the beast in front of them, he will keep the AM well out of this game, he tackles very hard but fair most of the time, wont allow the AM as much time as he would like on the ball. Dont want him to venture to far forward, as said we are up against it, so he helps out the defenders by sitting just in front. Wilshire beside him will pass it about looking to get players free, he will always follow his pass and look to get intoi dangerous areas and have apop at goal. He has more freedom to get forward, but always be ready to track back.

Barkley given a free role, will support defence and attack aalthough better at thje latter, we obvs need some sort of attacking players so even tho he has a tough role today always look to get it forward and get onto Yilmaz shoulder, when we have the ball and look for anything coming his way, will link with Adama Traore and Lavezzi as we look to have a real go today. He must pass and move into positions and not stay static or he will be easily picked up, it is up to him and Wilshire to get our front three into dangerous positions.

Adama and Lavezzi are very dangerous, quick and skillful, love playing football and will drive at the opposition, looking to creat chances for the central two, Adama I want to take risks, he is a powerful boy, with plenty defensive cover he has freedom to have a right good go at there defenders. Lavezzi has the experience and will use his head wether to fire in a cross or take players on. Yilmaz is fantastic in the air so when crosses do go in look to pop it onto his head, one twos with those inside and drive into the danger area.

All three AMs I want to track back and stop there midfield controlling the game, we must take charge early and dictate this game.

Burak Yimaz comes in, a striker that scores for fun, with either foot and great in the air, will hopefully have crosses aimed at him all day, so he must out jump the CBS to get to the ball and look to power home. Do not give them any peace at the back, always on your toes ready to pounce.

Even tho quite defensive we still have players to hurt them

Captain - Carvalho
Penalties - Yilmaz
Free Kicks - Barkley
Corners - Wingers

Subs

Losing -
65 Mins - Sigurdsson and Wellbeck for Barkley and Lavezzi new pace and energy
75 Mins - Austin for Criscito 3 at the back

Winning -
75 Mins - Veretout for Barkley sit in, and Lichtsteiner for Adama a solid bank of 4 with CArvalho in between defense and midfield
80 Mins - Wellbeck for Yilmaz on to run at there back 4 and hold it up.

Drawing
70 Mins - Sigurdsson > Barkley, Wellbeck > Lavezzi, Austin > Yilmaz all straight swaps

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

---------------------De Gea----------------------
Darmian----Bonucci----Chiellini----A.Sandro
---------------Bender----Pogba-----------------
Sanchez----------De Bruyne-----------Neymar
-------------------Kun Aguero-------------------

Rulli, Zouma, Laporte, Kovacic, El Ghazi, Morata, Berahino

In goal De Gea, a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, leads by example from the back, shouting instructions to hos defenders. Out quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.

Chiellini alongside Bonucci is as good a partnership you will see in the league, on this occassion Bonucci will man mark the CF probably Costa. Bonucci is quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, powerfully built so marking Costa should be of no problem, 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. Chiellini alongside not only brings experience but also he is fantastic v big men and in the air, so will mark any other big players that come into our danger area, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger, will help out Bonucci if needed.

A.Sandro and Darmian at fullback, when we attack one goes at a time the other sits back. When they attack I want them bombing down the wing over lapping the winger to allow them to cut inside, quick passing between the two to get them passed the opposition fullback, which will see the fullback drive towards the bye line to get a quick cross in. If its not a cross then look for the winger inside to play a quick pass back to them so they can drive into the box. Defending both will have to be vigilant and always mindful of the tricks the opposite winger can do. Be onto them quickly not allowing them the time to get going, push them out wide and stop them becoming a threat.

We go with Bender and Pogba in the centre of midfield, two absolute workhorses, with fantastic defensive attributes as well as being good on the attack, when we defend they will work together to shut there midfield down the AM(Bender) and second most advanced CM(Pogba) , they will close down everything very quickly and not allow there players any time on the ball whatsoever, once the ball is won, then Pogba will drive on into support De Bruyne and Aguero, Bender will stay back just in case Both good on the ball Pogba has a great eye for goal, can shoot from a variety of angles. look out for Sanchez and Neymar coming inside and put some nice crisp through balls into them and Neymar and Aguero. Quick passing from the two as to not be shut down by the Liverpool midfielders.

Sanchez and Neymar are known for their creativity, speed, and technical ability and are fearless, explosive attacking midfielders who can change the game with a turn of pace or a dribble. 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, especially with De Bruyne and Aguero central. Always play with there heads up looking for the runs of others to get the ball into there feet. When they have the ball look to stick close to fiullbacks and stop them coming forward.

De Bruyne is given a free role today to try and break them down, and if Liverpool go with 3 guys in the middle he simply drops in as well when they attack, not too defend but to simply stop there DM trying to dictate from deep areas, if not he will drift all over as to make it difficult for his marker to pick him up, as he drifts this will leave holes in the Arsenal midfield for us to take advantage of. He will look to drive forward often finding himself in 1v1 or 2v2 with Aguero, he and Aguero will cause a lot of problems with skill and pace he will pass to the Aguero and look to move into fantastic positions for Aguero to get him in in on goal.

Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away this Liverpool side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target Terry who is pretty slow. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. They are slow at the back so our forwards must hit them with pace. Good is surprisingly good in the air and two good feet, can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front four 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, De Bruyne and Sanchez running into support.

A very difficult game but we have a good side defensively and going forward, quick passing, one twos and drive into positions to receive a return ball, we really must go for it, at the same time nothing risky. On this tho when we attack our front four are very adaptable and will see them changing positions, so when they do, they will each take up the role as given in tactics, this will really confuse the Liverpool defenders and drag them all over the place.

Captain - Chiellini
Penalties - Aguero
Free kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers

Losing -
Morata for de Bruyne on 70 , Aguero plays just off him
Zouma fro Darmian on 80, 3 at the back, Sandro to LM and Neymar into the hole behind Aguero and Morata

Winning
Kovacic for De Bruyne on 75, goes to the right of Bender to shore up the middle of the park, Morata for Aguero on 85, on to hold it up, take to corners etc, still go for goal if a chance is there

Drawing
Morata for De bruyne on 70 switch with Aguero, El Ghazi for Sanchez on 80 fresh legs and will drive at the defence

Red Card
DDG - Rulli on for KDB
Darmian/Bonucci - Zouma for KDB
Sandro/Chiellini - Laporte for KDB
CM - Kovacic for KDB
WG - KDB switches wide
Aguero - Morata > KDB

Balanced, possession based 4-5-1.

We aim to win this game in central midfield, with Busquets setting the tempo of our play, allowing us to control possession. Setting up with two defensive midfielders,

We have a settled team and clear tactics, in great form we are especially fired up for this match after Villa copied our play. Today we play with a strong defensive midfield trio that have the perfect attributes to control the game. Villa have some top players that will challenge the best in the league, today though we don’t let them settle. Capitalise on the changes they’ve made defending strongly, dominating possession to not let them click.

Control the game, a midfield trio full of quality that can dominate possession. With plenty of quality and pace in defence we will play a reasonably high line in possession giving us control. Mandzukic offers fantastic work rate up top, defending from the front. Mandz and one winger press the ball as soon as we lose it, allowing the rest of the team to drop into a rigid deep formation.

In the final third we spread the play to our wingers. Get the ball to di Maria and target their lb. We want to stretch the game, creating space and attacking at pace down the wings. Getting crosses in to Mandz.

----------------- Oblak
Danilo – Otamendi - Manolas – Bernat
-------- S.Buquets – Witsel
A.di Maria - Ander Herrera --- Jese.R
-------------- Mandzukic

Subs. Green, Dragovic, Banega, A.Vidal, Guarin, van Persie, Bacca

We seek to control possession, ensuring it is Villa chasing us. When they do have the ball we look to close the space, keeping them in areas they can't hurt us. Busquets and Witsel provides a solid foundation to our midfield and play, while Ander has fantastic work rate to press the opposition. They have wide players that like to come inside, this will play into our hands with the strength in cm, making it difficult for them to create, as we defend in a narrow rigid unit.

Defending in numbers

Again we look to control the opposition pressing up the pitch with a rigid defensive unit, allowing them to play in areas we want them to. As they progress forward we get almost everyone behind the ball, bar Mandzukic. Leave no space, crowding them out. When we win the ball back, we have numbers back to keep possession and build attacks from the back.

As Villa advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1. Busquets drops pressing the space in front of our cbs.
In this deep tight rigid formation, we focus on pressing space. Ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Busquets will be key here, sweeping in between the defence and midfield, reading any dangers to get across and stop Villa.

Ander and Witsel, hold a central positions in front of the back 4, with the winger opposite to the play coming narrow and deep next to him providing a further wall in between those pressing and the back four. Narrowing the play to the side Villa are attacking, crowding them out and pushing them backwards and wide away from danger. When they switch play, we switch over.

Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, they will drop off more and narrow the play so they can bide their time, waiting for the right time to make the tackle and not diving in. If he does manage to get past you, there’s a chance to stop the cross. Manolas picks up the striker, Otamendi has the pace and quality to read the play and get across to danger and is always the last man, holding our back four in line.

Attack.

Fast flowing attacking football, controlling possession and attacking down the wings. Busquets and Axel seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Busquets spreading the play, and setting the tempo of the game. Axel always providing an option.

In the opposition half, the 3 AMs have the freedom of the pitch, support Mandzukic as much as possible. Getting into positions in between their midfield and defence to open up Villa.

Running at the opposition defence, putting them under pressure and forcing their players to come out of position. The attacking trio have freedom to switch positions. Ander is to always be looking for the final ball. If it is not on, we are happy to keep possession, switching the play and creating gaps in the Villa defensive formation.

The midfield should never be flat. Create as many lines as possible to increase the options we have in possession, and to create gaps in the opposition. In the middle of the park, the midfield trio look to keep the ball on the deck passing in triangles, triangles that are directed out wide as gaps appear in the opposition formation, we look to shift the ball wider as we advance into the opposition half.

We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Busquets patrolling the centre of midfield behind, always offering an option. Ander has the energy and intelligence to get forward and link the play.

One fb bombs forward, the other remains in line with the cbs. The fb will get out and with Busquets will provide a first block to stop any quick counters, and the defence has great pace to get back and so if they beat this first press we have a chance to get back.

Attacking movement in the final third is key. Either the attacking fb or the winger run inside, the other going down the line. This ensures we have at least one dummy run, creating space and pulling defenders out of position.

Mandzukic plays his natural game up top, using his intelligence to find space in the box, getting on the end of crosses.

Subs.
If drawing or winning after 68 mins bring on Bacca for Mandzukic. Fresh legs in an important area, keeping up the pressure on Villa.

If winning after 77 mins bring on Vidal for Jese. Di Maria to lw. With greater defensive cover and fresh legs to target their lb.
If winning after 82 mins bring on Guarin for Ander. Power to give us fresh drive.

If drawing after 75 mins bring on Guarin for Ander. Power and added goals to break down Villa.
If drawing after 79 mins bring on van Persie for Jese. 4-4-1-1, van Persie free role behind Bacca, Guarin to rm.

If losing after 68 mins bring on Bacca for Witsel. 4-4-2 Attack.

ASTON VILLA 4-3-3

———————————— 1. ter Stegen
26. Piszczek — 4. Kompany — 12. Smalling — 15. Willems
————————————— 28. Khedira
————————— 19. Cazorla — 6. Koke
11. Reus —————————————————————— 10. Hazard
————————————— 32. Tevez

SUBS: 31. Begovic, 37. Skrtel, 8. Can, 7. Son, 23. Kagawa, 18. Mkhitaryan, 9. Lacazette

Captain: Marco Reus
Crossing free-kicks: Eden Hazard
Shooting free-kicks: Santi Cazorla
Penalties: Marco Reus
Corners: Koke

Game Plan: A very hard game this away to one of the best tacticians in the league, in need of the points to continue our charge into the top 4, we're ready and raring to go after a good result last time out. We have recently been boosted by the arrival of Eden Hazard which will no doubt give our players a lift in terms of confidence. We'll set up in a 4-3-3 system so that we have control over the middle of the park then let the wide players do the damage, we'll look to dominate possession from the off, every man from 1-11 is very comfortable in possession. By keeping as much possession as possible we'll look to be patient and create space by moving the ball from side to side with a quick tempo, with 3 players in the middle it should give us plenty of opportunity to dominate the midfield and then take advantage in the wide areas with the pace and movement of our front 3, however we are still able to manage the game when we need to cope with the pressure thrown on us by the opposition by becoming a 4-1-4-1 defensively having two banks of 4 so that we are hard to break down.

Defensively we will look to push high up the pitch, all of our defenders are quick, intelligent and comfortable in this system of defending so are able to do this without fear of the opposition being able to spring us on the counter attack. The reason for the high line is to condense the space while out of possession for their attacking players, denying them the space to get on the ball and turn at our defence will be crucial in winning this game while also keeping players who are good in the air as far away from our goal as possible. The gap between the defence and the forwards should be very tight, we don't necessarily need to go chasing the ball from their CB's but when the full backs and midfielders of the opposition receive the ball, the nearest player (whether that be a midfielder, striker or defender) should be sprinting out to him to put him under pressure, when a player leaves his position, the next man must always be aware to cover the space he leaves, it's a very fluid system that requires a lot of hard work and concentration but we're good enough to do it, we want to force the opposition to either have to pass backwards or force a mistake from the man in possession.

As spoken of previously in the tactics, we will look to be in possession a damn site more than we are out of it, we will move the ball with tempo and pace between the midfielders and forwards, however we must not be afraid to play the ball backwards in order to keep the ball if a forward pass is not on, the idea behind keeping possession for so long is to draw defenders out of position and exploit the gaps that they leave, it's very difficult to concentrate as a defender if you're under pressure for a long time, mistakes will happen.

Our 3 forwards Reus, Hazard and Tevez again are all comfortable receiving the ball to feet and linking play effectively, their movement and pace will be key in dragging defenders out of position and then exploiting that space in order to create chances, this front 3 will always create chances with the quality of our midfield supplying them, they just have to take them, and they have all proven capable of that in their careers. Our 3 forwards will also need to look for the ball behind the opposition back line supplied by our midfielders since that will always unsettle the opposition back line.

SUBS:

If winning after 80 mins bring on Can for Cazorla. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater cover.

If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Mkhitaryan for Khedira. Fresh creativity and legs. Koke will then sit deep and control the game and Cazorla and Mkhitaryan will playmake just ahead of Koke.

If drawing or losing after 80 mins bring on Lacazette for Cazorla. More goal threat, plays alongside to Tevez in a 4-4-2.

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———————--———Courtois
Azpilicueta———Benatia——Musacchio——Luis
———————————Matic
———————Vidal——----——Kondogbia
Bellarabi———————————————Griezmann
———————————Costa

Subs: Navas, Terry, Vrsaljko, Oscar, Garcia, Williams, Mitrovic

Captain: Thibaut Courtois
Free Kicks: Antoine Griezmann/Felipe Luis
Corners: Karim Bellarabi
Penalties: Arturo Vidal

We want to surprise Chelsea today by not letting them settle, use our power and work rate advantage over them, especially in the midfield to get on top of the game, pressing high and looking to throw as much at their defence as possible, especially down the flanks.

We press from the front, the front 3 and Vidal press the defence/DMs, two pressing, one closing off the nearest wide option and the other holding station a little deeper to cut off easy central passes, with Matic, Kondogbia and the FBs together ready for a second stage of pressing and keeping Chelsea pegged in, leave no time and space to pick their passes and make them rush the ball into compact areas of the field, leaving their play easy to break up. Once the ball is played we trap Chelsea in vertical spaces. If the ball is moved into wider areas then our midfield push across looking to keep things compact and surround Chelsea on the flank, with the FB also pushing up to shut off space, and the winger on that side coming across to help with the FB. Chelsea’s wingers are very predictable, they always look to come infield which is why we use Vidal, Matic, Kondogbia and the remaining strikers to narrow the area of play, forming a barrier that stops them cutting in or picking central passes, one on one our FBs are excellent and will stand up strong and force them down the line if they can’t step in and reclaim possession, any crosses are easy for the defence. When they attempt to get forward in the central third we defend in a 4-5-1, Bellarabi and Griezmann narrow to the CMs and Costa as the first line of defence, pressing the deep midfielders, whilst the 5 man midfield make the game compact and surround Chelsea in possession, FBs once again pushing up onto the oppositions wingers so we leave them no easy pass. This is where our advantage lies, they have great technical players but physically they can’t match our power or speed to the ball, the 5 men in midfield and the FBs will run tirelessly and overrun Chelsea to establish our foothold. The FBs are always tight to their man when Chelsea have the ball unless they go infield off the ball, it is then the job of the midfield to deal with them and the FBs to stop any midfielder who roams wide. Benatia man marks the CF, Musacchio covers his partner, either with quick interceptions or dropping back and stopping flick ons, isolate him.

If the key is to be compact when defending to allow our extra energy to give us an advantage, going forward we look to stretch things out more to force them out of their comfort zones. Defending as a unit high up means we can attack as a unit high up, hitting them before they can get into position. It starts from the back with Musacchio and Benatia pushed up to keep it compact and allow us to stop any counters quickly, Matic will sit in the midfield, he’s excellent at getting in position where we attack, just behind the play ready to step in if the ball is lost and recovering possession immediately, it is important here that the FB on the opposite flank is narrow here so he can step in if Chelsea look to the space on the opposite side to where we attack, Matic is quick to cover any space centrally but he needs the FB close enough to not leave a massive gap, something Benatia and Musacchio also cover when they step up. The FBs take it in turn to attack, looking to stretch the game out and double up down the flanks, looking to get to the byline and link up. Vidal and Kondogbia provide lots of powerful running and their job is to use that to make space in the game, powering forward and getting into the box to give us plenty to aim at, they must keep us in possession so if theres nothing on they slow things down and allow us to regain control. Bellarabi and Griezmann will cause lots of problems with their pace and movement, stretching the game by attacking their FBs or cutting inside and linking up quickly to get down the sides of their slower CBs. Bellarabi will mainly hold the width whilst Griezmann is free to move infield and work with Costa and the midfield. Costa will look to occupy the CBs with a big battle today so that when others attack centrally they have more time. He holds the ball up well bringing others in and his movement off defenders is superb.

Chelsea will start to over commit if we can get a lead and this will allow us to drop deeper mid way through the second half and defend space rather than the man, making sure there are no spaces to play through, still keeping compact but leaving more space for us to counter into. Costa presses the DMs , looking to slow their passing game down whilst the midfield change to pressing space rather than the man, looking to plug all the gaps when Chelsea come forward. The midfield will stay compact as will the back 4(5) in order to leave no space centrally, with the midfield covering the space with Matic just a little deeper stoping Chelsea playing between the lines. FB and CB keep together, with the FB only pushing out when Chelsea try and introduce some width, we make sure we have a massive wall around our area. In the deep defensive set up their instructions when facing an opponent is the same as in the high press, always make sure they stand up and don’t let the opponent have the ball. Hit them on the break, attack the space down the sides of Chelsea with Griezmann and co.

subs:

If Winning: Terry for Bellarabi 70’, 3-4-2-1, will allow us to keep advantage in central areas with extra players with the 2 behind the striker playing wide if we have to defend wide areas and attack when the space is there. Garcia for Griezmann 80’:

Courtois
Benatia Terry Musacchio
Azpilicueta Matic Kondogbia Luis
Vidal Garcia
Costa

If Drawing: Williams for Bellarabi 65’, like for like. Oscar for Kondogbia 75’, someone different who can add greater creativity to our attacks with his movement central to wide and back again. Garcia for Vidal 85’, extra nuisance for Chelsea to deal with in their area.

If Losing: Williams for Kondogbia 65’, we go to a 4-4-2, two rapid wingers and Griezmann up with Costa. Oscar for Matic 75’, Vidal will be more disciplined with Oscar looking to create things. Mitrovic for Bellarabi 80’, Griezmann back out wide, Mitrovic and Costa upfront, an orthodox 4-4-2 with two big strikers and runners into the box.

If Red Card:

If we have a man sent off we won’t be able to press with the same intensity therefore we will drop and play a deep defensive game, covering the space and waiting for the counter attacks. We defend the same as we would if we get a lead in this game.

Courtois = Navas for Bellarabi and Terry for Kondogbia, change to a 3-4-1-1, Griezmann behind Costa helping the midfield and acting as the out ball.

Azpi/Luis = Vrsaljko and Terry for Bellarabi and Kondogbia, 3-4-1-1

Benatia/Musacchio = Terry for Bellarabi and we play a 4-4-1

Matic/Vidal/Kondogbia = Terry for Bellerabi, 3-4-1-1

Bellarabi/Griezmann off = Terry for Kondogbia, 3-4-1-1

Costa off = Terry for Kondogbia, 3-4-1-1, Bellarabi AM, Griezmann CF.

-----------------------Forster----------------------

C.Soares----J.Stones----Van Dijk----L.Baines

----------Sissoko-----Blind-----Morgan----------

Willian---------------Icardi----------------Depay

Patricio, M.Targett, Van Ginkel, S.de Jong, Yarmolenko, Milik, Llorente

We are going for the same approach as last week even tho we lost, we just dont score enough goals to win matches, so against a top quality Arsenal side we go with an adventurous 433 formation as we really have nothing to lose.

With Forster behind the back four this is a solid defence, with the keeper shouting when he comes out for the ball, he will punch clear what he cant catch and look to release the ball early

Van Dijk takes the leadership role at the back, he sits spare whilst John Stones picks up the CF, Van Dijk will lead the whole back 4 and they will go by his instructions. While Stones is picking up the CF, Van Dijk takes a step off him as he will be mindful of the CF if he gets away from Stones or indeed any other attacker that comes through. Stones needs to be strong and mature in this role, he cannot be bullied by the CF, although he is a quick, powerful boy. Also by mature I mean he must make desicions quickly to where he has to be, that is where Van Dijk helps him, The two can form a powerful partnership with no messing. They attack all high balls and clear danger from ball whipped in.

Soares and Baines are allowed to attack. When the fullbacks attack I want them up supporting our wingers getting beyond the wide forwards to give us some width and get to the bye line, so Willian and Depay can cut in and support Icardi. Whip in crosses for Icardi to attack. When defending the lines, push there wingers out wide and stay on feet, dont dive in, this will force the player back or into a space they cant get out of.

We have the same trio in the centre of the park and a three that we feel can gel quickly, Blind central sits in and watches there attacking midfielder whilst Sissoko and Schneiderlin have a bit more room to advance into dangerous areas and support the forwards. However, we are up against a potent midfield and attack so when we are retreating the 3 must stick tight and not allow anyone through! All neat and tidy footballers so when are in possession we will look to pass it abput, short passing until there is a gap or Willian or Depay or indeed the fullbacks have found room, then we will look to get it into there feet..

Willian and Depay add the flair and pace to the wings along with the power we have centrally this is a dangerous combination for there back 4, look to take men on either play it down the wing and drive passed the full back with support from the fullbacks and whip in some dangerous crosses or play it inside to Morgan, Sissoko and Icardi and look for the one two so they can drive into the box and smash it goal wards, always driving at there defence, never giving them a moments rest when they are in possession. When we defend these two get back and make a strong midfield 5 not allowing there fullbacks to get anywhere passed the halfway line.

Icardi, a good outlet up front as he can not only take players on with his pace but is strong enough to hold off players to allow others to come in and support, especially Sissoko who will be up in support a lot, always looking to go for goal and two good feet, with support form Willian and Icardi this is a very quick and powerul front three always driving as a trio at defenders with Sissoko in particular also in support.

Captain is Morgan Schneiderlin
Penalty taker is Icardi
Free Kicks is Depay
Corners - Wingers

Substitutes

If we are winning, then Van Ginkel will come on for Sissoko on 70 Minutes and Matt Targett on for Depay on 80 Minutes, this will shore th midfield up and restrict Arsenal, also on 80 Minutes Llorente will come on for Icardi

If we are losing the on 70 Minutes Milik will come on for Icardi and Yarmolenko for Sissoko, Yarmolenko will go to LW and Depay will play just behind Milik in a sort of 4-4-2

If we are drawing then on 65 Minutes Siem de Jong will come on for Sissoko and play at a withdrawn No.10 but can push on when we attack, Milik for Icardi on 75 Minutes and Yarmolenko for Depay on 85 Minutes

-----------------Lloris-----------------
Ivanovic---Koscienly--Luiz---clichy
-------------lahm--Scwein------------
--Robben------James-----Coutinho--
-----------------Rooney----------------

Subs:
Valdes
Vermelean
Asamoah
Carrick
Toulalan
Ribery
Negredo

Tactics:
This is a massive match and the players are well up for it, we will give this everything to get the 3 points. We will look to get at United straight away from the first whistle, we feel we are the stronger team and we have home advantage so we want to show them who's boss. A quick start will get the fans on our side and it will camp United in their half with a lot of their attacking options having to defend which dont suit them. We will be patient in possession looking to dominate the ball playing pass and move football. We can be patient but incisive when the right opportunity comes up, we know we have the quality in players like robben, James, Coutinho and Rooney to carve them open and score. United have a good team but there defensive player are no match for our attacking talent and our defence is good enough to keep United out.

Lloris is a great shot stopper and keeper but one of his biggest roles today is to lead the team by being vocal and being our eyes at the back helping to stop any dangerous attacks. If the opportunity is on Lloris will look to play the quick ball out to get at United quickly. Koscienly will man mark their main striker In lewandoski who's a top striker but Koscienly can match him for strength, pace and heading ability and he has the intelligence to keep him quiet. Luiz is the spare cb always on hand to help Koscienly if needed and watching for midfield runners into the box. Ivanovic and clichy can both get forward to support attacks as we have Lahm and Scwein who will sit deep so we are covered defensively and we want to keep pressure on United all the time and this means men in advanced positions. Ivanovic and clichy will show United's wingers down the line and not get too close to them, showing them down the line eliminates their main threat which is cutting Inside, not getting too close to their wingers means we're not likely to get skinned either. United wingers will be limited to putting crosses into the box which makes them less threatening to us and we have two good headers of the ball in Luiz and kos who can deal with this threat. Lahm will always stay back using his high energy to close down the United players quick and try to win the ball back. Lahm will man mark their likely am in mata he's a quality playmaker but lahm will give him no space and mata don't have the pace or energy to escape lahm. Lahm is also a leader in the middle and is a man for the main occasion like this massive Derby and he been there and done it all before. Lahm also can pass well so he will always be an option to pass to and will look to start attacks from deep but mostly playing the simple pass. Scwein will sit deep and be a playmaker from deep, closing United down when we don't have the ball and looking to dictate tempo and make key passes when we do have the ball, on rare occasions Scwein can go forward. Scwein and lahm have played together their whole careers and they will form a very solid partnership.

Coutinho will start on the left but will cut inside if he can get more space or go down the left and whip in low crosses with Rooney making near post runs, James will be a available edge of the area for the pull back and Robben will go far post. Coutinho can use the runs of clichy as a decoy to cut inside while clichy provides the width and a passing option. Coutinho will look to run at the heart of the United defence and take shots or play quick one twos with Rooney and James. Coutinho has bags of energy and may be too much for the ageing zabaleta to handle. James will look to get on the ball and dictate play, getting in the box to support Rooney and looking to get others like Rooney and robben and Coutinho in behind the defence. James will have to drop off and use his high work rate to close United players down when we don't have the ball as we cannot allow United to dominate us in central midfield. If James struggling to get on the ball or lahm and Scwein finding it hard to pick out the attacking players then James will drop deeper to get on the ball. Robben will look to cut inside from the right as he is so dangerous at doing, he can score and make goals with ease. Robben will play quick passes with intelligent payers like James and Rooney we will make chances. Robben will sometimes go out wide and cross to keep United players guessing and even if he don't Ivanovic can provide the width. Robben will look to get shots away with Rooney always looking to tap I'm anything the keeper spills, Robben worldclass and it's unlikley United lb will be able to handle him and United don't have strong enough defensive midfielders to handle Robben, James, Coutinho. Just to make it worse for United Robben, Coutinho and james will swap positions during the match but this won't happen too often. Rooney will be looking to get in behind all the time and try to make space for himself. He will help link the play with the players behind him and he needs to be on hand to convert any chances he gets.

Subs 65 Any score
Ribery for Coutinho
Carrick for Scwein

Extra sub if winning 70
Toulalan for James and we go more defensive with Toulalan in cm

Extra sub if losing 70
Negredo for lahm and Negredo plays st with Rooney given a fee role

---------------------Buffon
Clyne--Mustafi--Sakho---Coentrao
----------------Fernandinho
---------Fabregas-------Pjanic
Suarez-------Sturridge------Firmino
Subs
Perin, Tah, Juanfran, Henderson, Walcott, Candreva, Higuain

Tactical Overview
We anticipate Hull will be playing with 3 centre backs, so we are going to match them up 1v1 by playing a true 433 with 3 strikers.

For the first 20 minutes of each half we are going to try and blitz the opposition, pressing them all over the pitch and using the pace in attack to try and catch them cold, then then settling down into a 3 quarter press allowing the opposition CB's and Keeper to have the ball as much as they want whilst still pressing the other areas of the pitch.



Keeper


When distributing the ball, he should look to keep it simple and play the simple pass. At crosses and set pieces, should look to punch clear towards our wingers rather than having to flap at pressurised catches.



Full Backs

Defensively the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, we want them to stop 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 wider forwards on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition defender that split second of indecision on wether to go with him. They won't put too many crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the players who have come out from the middle of the pitch or run to the byline and cut back passes along the ground with pace.

Centre Backs

They will generally play a slightly deeper line, looking to limit the space to get in behind them generally shuffling across to make it a back 3 if one full back is caught up the pitch, Sakho will compete with the striker for the aerial balls played into him, with Mustafi concentrating on winning the 2nd ball. When the ball is on the floor, Sakho will be the defender who looks to meet the striker looking to stifle his space and rush his decisions, with Mustafi making the covering runs. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should look to take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space and retain possession with the occasional long ball to the front 3 thrown in to use their pace and keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.

Centre Mids


The midfield 3 will be looking to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, being key figures in the pressing game and always making themselves available for a pass when we are in the final third to shift their 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. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/AMs as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.



Striker


With 3 genuine forwards on the pitch, we will be matching up man for man against Hulls 3 man defence, all 3 will be drifting across the line, forcing the centre backs to go with their man to create gaps for others to exploit, or let them go and leave the defensive partners in 2 v 1 situations, the strikers have a good mix of pace and industry to keep going for all 90 minutes not giving the defence a moments rest.
When running onto a pass, they will look to make diagonal runs to get their body between the defender and the ball and forcing the defender to either stop their own run or make contact with the striker and concede a foul.
When defending, Suarez and Firmino will get back and put in their defensive shift, Sturridge stays tight to Hulls defensive midfielder, looking to limit his turning space and rush his passes.

Set Pieces


Corners - Fabregas takes the corners, the CB's go into the box, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's, Suarez and Sturridge 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 flits around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and bobbles around the area. Fernandinho looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving around the 6 yard box, looking to take a defender with him meaning more blocking for the keeper and one less man in the action area. Pjanic takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and occasionally providing the short option to try and draw 2 defenders out of the box.





Free Kicks - Suarez takes Direct FK's



For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners





Penalties - Suarez is the designated taker.





Subs



If Winning


70 mins - Juanfran for Firmino - The wider forwards 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 - Henderson for Fabregas and Walcott for Sturridge - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Henderson, Juanfran + Walcott for Fernandinho, Clyne + Firmino - Bring a bit more energy and urgency into attacks.

If Losing



70 Mins - Higuain, Juanfran and Candreva for Fernandinho, Clyne and Coentrao - All out attacking 4-3-3 with Firmino playing behind the 3 strikers.

---------------- D.Ospina
Alderweireld Vertonghen Nkoulou Kolarov
------ A.Iturraspe --- R.Pereyra
J.Navas ---- H.Calhanoglu ------ A.Young
----------------- Benteke

Subs: Foster, Sagna, Tompkins, Fernando, Rode, Ocampos, L.Adriano

A winnable game I feel, we’re at home and Birmingham have only won 1 of their last 6 so we need a concentrated effort to ensure we pile even more misery on them today.

D.Ospina starts between the sticks, a reliable keeper that I have a lot of faith in. I want him quick on his toes today looking to lead from the front and setting the example. He should look to make himself big at all times and narrow the angle down for the shooter, command his area with his notable presence, deal with set-pieces effectively and release swiftly and on point.

2 CB’s at the back form a solid spine in the centre of defence, two very contrasting styles of play ensure we are more than a match for any attacker to get the better of. Nkoulou is given the responsibility of man marking their main CF, I want him tough but fair looking to physically dominate and intimidate the opposition striker, we need to push him back from goal as far as possible and cut off the supply completely. He needs to use his upper frame as a shield looking to come across and go toe to toe with every challenge looking to block him in. Vertonghen partners and is the more nimble and tactically astute of the two, I need him making the covering runs and watching for midfield runners from deep generally looking to keep everything in check and clearing danger from its first whiff. Alder’ and Kolarov start at FB, priority first and foremost today is defensively as we look to keep the threat from out wide to a minimum, we need to force their wingers wide using our strength to bully them and not allowing them a inch of space, attacking wise Alder’ will be the more conservative looking to be more selective with his forward runs whilst Kolarov is the more adventurous and looks to get in behind looking to whip balls into the box with his trademark deliveries.

A.Iturraspe starts at DM looking to drop anchor and shield the back 4. He looks to keep up the intense pressure looking to win us the ball back as quick as possible and simply offloading to our more creative players. He also needs to plug the holes making key interceptions to ensure they can’t thread it through to their forwards whilst aiding in watching midfield runners from deep and intervening prior to them becoming a threat. R.Pererya partners and acts as the workhorse, I need him using his great work ethic to cover quick ground looking to make strong and robust challenges whilst getting first to everything, in terms of attack he’s ultimately a great weapon in us being able to transition from defence to attack within a instance using his sharp burst of pace and excellent passing range to get us moving forward as swiftly and smoothly as possible as he plays more box to box.

J.Navas and A.Young start out wide and both ensure we can play with real width and thus stretch the opposition. Navas is very nimble on his feet and has bags of pace so I want him looking to take on his FB as much as possible, if need be go down easily in dangerous areas and force a free-kick but look to get the FB in two minds (about making a challenge) consistently and torment as much as possible looking to make it a real duel down the right and getting constant deliveries into the box. I want Young on the left as direct as Navas on the right looking to target their LB as much as possible as this is where we feel Birmingham’s biggest weakness lies, Kolarov will form more of an outlet on the outside ensuring Young can consistently cut inside and link with others whilst getting shots off.

Calhanoglu is given a free role, our wingers and Benteke will free him up a lot today and he will look to use his spark in the centre to make things happen. A real creative outlet and acting as the brains of the side I want him drifting throughout looking for pockets of space and manoeuvring the ball at will looking to get his teammates into space. He is not only a great creative mastermind, however, he is also very capable of goal-scoring so should look to take up positions in and around the box looking to get shots off and sharp to re-bounds, in terms of defence he should look to form the tip of a diamond in MF and man mark the oppositions most creative AM.

Benteke starts up top and is very much the focal point of the side, I feel he is more than capable of bullying their CB’s today and shoeing them in so others are afforded more time and space. In terms of attack he is such an imposing outlet that we have taylor-made our game to his needs however this works both ways as he will attract defenders to him and this will open up the game for others ensuring we have various avenues to goal. In short this means he’s an ideal CF both on and off the ball but he needs to stay strong and defiant throughout looking to make himself as difficult to mark as possible and converting any chances that come his way.

C – R.Pereyra
FK’S – H.Calhanoglu
Corners – H.Calhanoglu/A.Young (CB’s come up)
Pens – C.Benteke

Substitutes:
Fernando.R > A.Iturraspe – 65th min – A like for like replacement but Fernando comes onto shore up the midfield and ensure we’re on the front foot.

L.Ocampos > A.Young – 65th min – An area we are looking to target so fresh legs on so Ocampos can continue to cause havoc and link with Kolarov.

(If Losing) – L.Adriano > Vertonghen – 80th minute – 3 at the back, L.Adriano partners Benteke up top and looks to get us back into the game.

(If Winning) – Rode > Calhanoglu – 80th minute – (4-3-3) Rode sits in midfield and we look to play keep ball.

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----------------------hart
Arbeloa----Ramos-----pepe---Bertrand
-----------------krychowiak
-----------Ozil-----------Modric
Ronaldo--------Benzema---------Draxler

Subs: Krul, Trippier, Cresswell, motta, cuadrado, chadli Illarra

Subs:

Cuadrado for draxler 70'.play ronnie lw cuadrado rw



In today's game we are playing an attacking 4-3-3 formation. We want the win and we are gonna get it. We need to show the league why we are league champions and by God we are going to do that. We have had a poor start so far but today we will rise faster than when a man sees Katy Perry naked.

As team we will play super dooper quick. Daze the opposition. We need to be getting the ball to our pacey players. They will bring the players away from the positions thus allowing our other players to take advantage. This also means quick passing in order to keep the fast players in space.

Defensively we will play a high line and keep their forwards offside while trying to open up space for our faster players. This means our full backs will need to stick with our centre backs when we are off the ball. We will have a defensive midfielder who will stay just in front of our defence to protect them so we are not at a total weakness of being counter attacked.

Attacking wise we will get the ball into space and the fast players will take advantage. The full backs in an attacking sense will also help. We need to play quick passes, quick runs and quick changes of direction. We also need to allow a quick response to recover from mistakes.

If we are winning from the 70th minute I want us to start to keep the ball for longer periods and hold possession. Slow play right down and seriously time waste.

Positional Tactics

Our full backs defensively will stick in a high line with our centre backs. We need to trap our opposition offside making it hard for them to counter attack. However in times when it doesn't work they need to push the opposition back and reduce the space made available on this side of the pitch. They need to prevent the wingers from running in behind them and cutting inside of them. Offensively they will need to move forward with the ball and use up the space left by the opposition. When our wingers cut in, I want our full backs to take up the wide position and put the crosses in.

Our centre backs will be apart of this high line we are playing. Use their strength and pace to keep the opposition offisde and then clear the ball away. They must stay on guard for any potential runners and therefor close them off as soon as they get going. We need to limit the opportunity for them to find space by keeping goal side of them at all times. They need to use their height and strength to beat them off the ball. They also must be aware of any high balls into the box. Offensively only go up for corners.

We will play a defensive midfielder today who will protect the defence and hold up play. This means filling the gaps and creating a defensive wall to stop the opposition from breaking through. krychowiak must keep with the playmaker by discouraging him from moving into space, limit the chances he's able to create and keeping goal side of him at all times. Limit the available players for them, and force them to pass the ball back. Offsensively I will not allow krychowiak to go forward.

Modric will play further forward than normal to give us that extra option to open up the opposition and send Draxler and Ronaldo away. He needs to control play more by creating and forming the attacks. He should look to move forward to be the new option. His passing must be quick, slick and clever. He with Ozil will control our passing that allows the pacy players to take advantage of defensive friailties.

Our attacking midfielder will be Ozil who will look to run into space and finding the opportunity to change and dictate the game. He must force the opposition to open up space and allow the attacking players to break through. I want him to move about all across the centre and depending on move towards the right or the left to the ball. Defensively he must prevent people running forward and creating more ability for runs. He must try and collect the ball and release it to our wingers to form attacks since.

Our wingers need to use plenty of their skill, strength, power, pace and physicality to open up the opposition. I want them to force the attacks straight at them, bring the defenders out and then allow our attackers to take advantage. They must cut inside, run in from behind and cross the ball in so that our attacks don't end up predictable. Try and use our full backs as much as possible when attacking the opposition so that having to handle more than one player forces a mistake. Defensively they should fall back and help the full backs to defending and prevent the wingers from creating opportunities. Ronaldo should stay further forward as most players will look to leave the ball for him in the next attack.

Our striker needs to use their brain to workout how the defence works. They need to run at them using their strength and skill to cause nerves in their defence and force mistakes. The striker needs to open up space and find space as he is good at getting On the end of crosses and opportunities created. He needs to use his height to open the scoring and also use his power to force his way into goal scoring opportunities. Defensively I want him to move back to the centre circle and wait for the midfield to supply the ball to him in the event of an attack, if after 70 mins and we are winning I want the striker to move further back to control and protect the nation. We just time waste as much as possible.

Pens: Ronaldo
Long FK: Ronaldo
Short FcK: Ronaldo
Corners: Draxler
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Manchester City v MANCHESTER UNITED

Injuries: Handanovic, Subotic, Vilhena, Teixeira

Szczesny
Zabaleta - Sokratis - Howedes - Gaya
Gundogan - Gustavo
Pedro - Mata - Turan
Lewandowski

Subs: Johnstone, Inigo, Strootman, Cabaye, Ramsey, Mirallas, Lukaku

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Big game today as we attempt to bounce back from last weeks shocker against Stoke with a win in the Manchester derby. Taking the game to City by going with the plan of dominating the midfield to give ourselves the best possible chance of success, we also have made some changes while keeping the same spine to the side, a few improvements compared to the previous setup which gives us a stronger attack. Szczesny in goal for the injured Handanovic, Zabaleta at right back to significantly improve us in that position, Gundogan and Gustavo in midfield with Pedro, Mata and Turan providing support to Lewandowski upfront.

This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting three points today. City have some class players in their side although we have some world class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front three with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a duo who can dictate the game in Gundogan and Gustavo, and Mata ahead of them, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Pedro at RW and Arda Turan at LW both able to cut inside and get at the City defence with Zabaleta/Gaya overlapping. Lewandowski 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.

Szczesny - 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 Lewandowski.

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

Zabaleta/Gaya - Both of you to force the City 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 Pedro/Turan 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 Lewandowski and link with Gundogan/Gustavo/Mata. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

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

Pedro/Turan - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the City 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 Lewandowski with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Gundogan/Gustavo/Mata, and capitalise on the space Lewandowski'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 City defence, bring the ball to create space for others and look for the runs of Pedro/Turan/Lewandowski. Shoot if you get into position, also force the City defenders to foul you when you're attacking as you're lethal from setpieces. Link with Lewandowski regularly.

Lewandowski - you will be expected to occupy the City 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.

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Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Mata off, Strootman on. Change of formation, Strootman plays deeper alongside Gundogan and Gustavo in a flat 4-5-1, Pedro to RM with Turan at LM, absorb pressure and hit on the break.

If drawing: Gustavo off, Ramsey on. Same system. Ramsey to CM alongside Gundogan, Zabaleta/Gaya to get forward more often. Get closer to Lewandowski to create chances.

If losing: Gaya and Gustavo off, Ramsey and Lukaku on. Switch to 3-1-4-2, Zabaleta - Subotic - Howedes the back three, Gundogan the deep playmaker, Pedro - Mata - Ramsey - Turan behind a front two of Lukaku and Lewandowski. Push for goals in this must not lose game.