vs Stoke
———————————Courtois
—————Lindelof——Skriniar——Umtiti
R.Pereira——————-Fabinho——————Gaya
——————Ceballos—————Tielemans
————————Dybala———Icardi
Subs: Svilar, Torreira, Loftus-Cheek, Milinkovic-Savic, Carrasco, Bernardeschi, Mariano
Captain: Thibaut Courtois
Free Kicks: Fabinho(right)/Paulo Dybala(left and centre)
Corners: Youri Tielemans
Penalties: Mauro Icardi
Setting up to dominate the possession today, starting from the back looking to use the excellent playmaking abilities of our CBs. We expect Stoke to come and soak up pressure then counter which means we need to have the variation in our play to open them up, whilst retaining a strong structure.
Building with Fabinho between the first two lines of defence, looking to drag the opposition forward across to one side of the field and allow the opposite side wide CB to bring ball forward, once he steps into midfield we transition with the WB pushing into the forward line to push the opposition FB back and keep him tuck by the touchline to stretch the defence, opposite side WB tucking in alongside Fabinho and the wide CB to create a 2-3-2-3 that keeps up stable in possession. From here we want Dybala occupying the opposite side half space in order to find space. The aim is to overload the ball side area, wide CB bringing it out to draw forward one of the opposition midfielders and then allow Ceballos and Tielemans to go up and double up against the other. Fabinho will act as a 2nd passer remaining between the lines, Ceballos and Tielemans can use each other and Fabinho/wide CB to take the CM’s out of the game and get between midfield and defence, or find a ball through for the WB to latch onto. Likewise we can use Fabinho to release Dybala, by dragging play and Stoke to one side, going back to Fabinho who will release the ball to Dybala. As soon as Dybala gets it he will have the WB overlapping him to take away a FB, and Icardi making a run behind to take away the CBs. This will give him that bit of extra time to make something happen.
Other times when we have Stoke pegged right back we will work with a 3-4-3 diamond, pushing the WBs right up into the front line to keep the opposition back line stretched right out on both sides. The wide CBs will stretch out to make it impossible for us to be pressured successfully, all 3 excellent ball players who will be able to break the lines. Having the diamond with our WBs higher up also means that we get our 4 best ball players central, well staggered and well connected, allowing us to play through the opposition. Fabinho the 2nd passer at the base, whilst Ceballos and Tielemans operating in the half space, either dropping deep to help make build up fluid, or pushing higher up, drawing a CM towards them and then taking them out of the game with a good first touch pass or a quick movement behind or to the side.
This leaves Dyballa working on a tangent with Icardi, Icardi running behind and Dybala dropping into AM, defences tend to pick the man threatening the goal which will allow Dybala to drop off and find precious time on the ball, able to then use his long range shooting, his dribbling and his passing to unlock the opposition. Midfield will turn to face him and this will mean they lose their men, allowing Ceballos/Tielemans to make a blind side run.
In the final third we have a lot of fluidity in movement using triangles, so when one drags wide, another pushing beyond and one stays deep, meaning we have open passing lanes between the opponent lines, but also meaning we have an excellent foundation to counterpress. Our aggressive ball-orientated support will also aid the counterpress. We use our overloads and triangles to press the ball as soon as we lose it, 2 pressing the ball from the back and the side and the deeper player shutting the vertical passing lane, with the rest of the attack compacting to this area to squeeze the opponents in. We should have 5 pressing, 5 organising, 2 of the CBs dealing with the striker, ball side wide CB pushed up to help Fabinho defend the ball side space and opposite side WB/CM in position to cut out any diagonals to the free man.
When forced deeper we defend with a 5-3-1-1, giving us full control of the width of the field, with 4 midfielders to keep us in control of the middle too. Back 5 defend zonally, pressing if the ball carrier enters their zone whilst the rest of the defence drops to cover the space in behind. Fabinho patrols the area in front of the defence, helping us to press 2 v 1 centrally, whilst the CMs will go out to help defend the flanks when needed.
Subs:
If Winning: Torreira for Tielemans 70’, brings great energy to stop attacks quickly. Loftus-Cheek and Milikovic-Savic for Ceballos and Dybala 80’, 5-3-1-1 with Loftus-Cheek in behind Icardi.
If Drawing: Carrasco and Bernardeschi for Lindelof and Tielemans 70’, 4-3-3. FBs will invert and get two out and out wingers stretching the game to allow Dybala a free role. Milinkovic-Savic for Ceballos 75’, drive us to a win.
If Losing: Carrasco for R.Pereira 60’, more offensive WB. Mariano and Milinkovic-Savic for Tielemans and Ceballos 70’, 3-2-3-2:
Lindelof Skriniar Umtiti
Fabinho Milinkovic-Savic
Carrasco Dybala Gaya
Mariano Icardi
Portsmouth v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR (Cup)
Injuries:
Keylor Navas, Kingsley Coman, Ashley Young, Michael Keane
------------------------ Forster -----------------------
D.Alves ----- Boateng –--- Van Dijk ---- Rodriguez
----------------------- Verratti ----------------------
-------------- Fabregas ---–-- B.Silva --------------
---- T.Lemar --------------------------- L.Sane -—
---------------------- A.Morata ---------------------
Subs:
Carevic, Chiellini, Kolarov, Matuidi, Bakayoko, Willian, M.Dembele
Captain: van Dijk
Free Kicks: Fabregas/Rodriguez
Penalties: Morata
Corners: Fabregas
Another big game and we go with a strong lineup. A back four of D.Alves, Boateng, VVD and Rodriguez. A midfield trio of Verratti, Cesc and Bernardo playing in the CM roles. Lemar and Sane occupy the flanks with Morata playing through the middle.
Goalkeeper – Fraser Forster – Dominant keeper with fantastic shot stopping ability. With the aerial challenge likely to be presented by the oppositions attack Forster will dominant the box, come for the ball and commanding on set pieces. We look to start attacks from the back, distributing to the fall backs or if the opposition press we bypass this by taking advantage of the plethora of options in front of him. The primary aim however is to get the ball to our ball playing CM’s as quickly as possible.
Centre Backs – We go with the physically commanding centre halve pairing of Boateng and van Dijk, both of whom offer superb pace and athleticism which will be integral in eliminating the threat posed by the pace and strength of the opposition. If the opposition play with one up top Boateng will mark with VVD offer cover in behind. The aim will be to stick tight to the forward and giving no room to manoeuvre, look to anticipate and cut off the ball into feet with VVD sweeping up if the opposition go long. With two extremely comfortable ball players we are not afraid to bring the ball out from the back. Draw the opposition on to us and exploit the space in behind.
Full Backs – Two solid full backs who's focus today will be providing support to the attack. When the opposition are in possession they drop back, creating a rigid back 4 with the centre halves playing close together leaving no space in or around our box. We force the wingers out wide, make them play down the line and do not allow them to come inside. If the opposition play with inverted wingers this will severely negate their ability to come inside and shoot as they will be forced to go down the line and cross with their weaker foot. Our commanding centre halves will deal with any balls into the box. When in possession the full backs have license to push forward and offer width, although only one will push forward at a time with the other offering cover in defence. They will be tasked with whipping balls in behind the opposition’s defence as we look to utilise the pace offered by our front 3.
Central Midfield – In the centre we utilise Verratti’s who’s tenacity and quality is integral to how we play. He will sit deep as the DM, breaking up the oppositions play and providing the holding force in the middle whilst Silva and Cesc pull the strings ahead of him. If the opposition play with an AM Bakayoko will sit on him, cutting out the supply line to the striker. He will be the deep lying playmaker who alongside Bernardo Silva and Fabregas will aim to pull the strings in the middle of the park, dictating the play with Bernardo in particular having license to push forward and join the attack. We aim to control the game by getting the ball to these three and letting them pick apart the opposition. With three quality forwards ahead of them they will have plenty of options, sliding the ball in behind the opposition defence if they play a high or unpicking the lock should they sit deep and camp inside their own box.
Forwards – We play with a central striker and two pacey wide forwards. Morata is one has fantastic his link up play and is capable of scoring or assisting at any moment. We will look to utilise his aerial presence with balls into the box from our full backs and our wide forward sticking tight, looking for any knockdowns and flicks in behind which will allow them to utilise their pace to devastating effect. Morata’s aerial presence coupled with the distribution of Fabregas will prove a deadly combination. Lemar and Sane will make continuous runs in behind the defence, when our wingbacks push forward they will attack the box, one at the near post, one at the back with Morata in the middle. They will force the oppositions full backs to track them into the box which opens up space for our full backs and Silva to push forward.
When the opposition are in possession – we drop into a 4-5-1 formation, the wingers drop into midfield making it increasingly difficult for the opposition to play through us. We sit deep and do not allow any space in behind, drawing the opposition onto us which will create plenty of space which we will look to exploit with a swift counter attack.
When we are in possession – We will look to dominate possession. Comfortable enough in possession we will look to utilise the creativity of our midfield 3 to retain possession and dictate play. The pace of our forwards will be key as we play a front 3 when in possession and force the opposition on the back foot. Set pieces will be key and an area that we will specifically target. Fabregas’s dead ball delivery is superb and with the aerial ability of Boateng, van Dijk and Morata we will look to cause havoc in the oppositions box at any opportunity. If the free kick is within shooting range then Rodriguez has license to shoot.
Subs 65 mins;
If winning: Fabregas and B.Silva off, Matuidi and Bakayoko on. 4-5-1, Wingers drop back into midfield with Bakayoko, Verratti and Matuidi dominating the physical battle in the middle of the pitch.
80 mins: Lemar off, Chiellini on. We go 5-4-1, Boateng, VVD and Chiellini playing through the middle of a solid back 5, creating a brick wall in front of our goal as we see the game out.
If drawing: Rodriguez and Fabregas off, Chiellini and Willian on, we go to 3-4-3, Chiellini goes to LCB alongside VVD and Boateng in a back 3 with D.Alves and Willian on the flanks behind the front 3 as we push for the winner.
If losing: B.Silva and Lemar off, M.Dembele and Willian on. We go 4-2-4 with Morata and Dembele play as a front two with Sane and Willian playing either side. Plenty of pace will force the opposition back as we go for goals.
Hull City v BRIGHTON AND HOVE ALBION
Injuries: Lallana, Schneiderlin, Anderson, Cech
---------------------- Trapp
Zabaleta - Sokratis - Evans - Bernat
------ Fellaini - Carvalho - Pastore
Callejon ---- Benzema ---- Richarlison
Subs: Gunn, Holding, Robertson, Krychowiak, Payet, Jese, Falcao
-----------------
A very tough game today, but we can get at this Hull side, I feel we can target them down the middle and create chances for Benzema to finish.
Playing a 4-3-3/4-5-1, Trapp in goal, Zabaleta, Sokratis, Evans and Bernat across the back, Fellaini, Carvalho and Pastore in midfield, Callejon and Richarlison either side of Benzema upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Hull have some world class players in their side although we have some class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front three with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a trio who can dictate the game in Lallana, Krychowiak and Matuidi, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Berardi at RW and Payet at LW both able to use their creativity and get at the Hull defence with Zabaleta and Bernat overlapping. Falcao 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.
Trapp - 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 Benzema.
Sokratis/Evans - Sokratis to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Evans 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 Carvalho 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/Bernat - Both of you to force the Hull wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Callejon/Richarlison 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 Benzema and link with Fellaini/Carvalho/Pastore. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Fellaini/Carvalho/Pastore - Pastore and Fellaini playing the box to box roles, assist Carvalho dealing with the Villa attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Carvalho stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Carvalho to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Pastore to burst forward to join the front four on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others. Fellaini to get forward and provide a physical threat alongside Benzema whenever crosses come into the area.
Callejon/Richarlison - Both playing out wide and both have the creativity and trickery to beat the Hull fullbacks and get crosses in, but both of you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Benzema with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Fellaini/Carvalho/Pastore, and capitalise on the space Benzema's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.
Benzema - you will be expected to occupy the Hull centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Callejon/Richarlison on occasion.
------------------
Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Richarlison off, Krychowiak on. Switch to a flat 4-5-1 with Krychowiak alongside Fellaini and Carvalho in midfield. Callejon to RM and Pastore to LM, look to absorb pressure and hold out for the win.
If losing: Carvalho and Evans off, Payet and Falcao on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, back three of Zabaleta - Sokratis - Bernat, Pastore the playmaker, Callejon - Fellaini - Payet - Richarlison behind a front two of Benzema and Falcao. Push for goals.
Chelsea v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Injuries: Trippier, J Mario, Ginter, L Moura
-------------------- Ter Stegen
------------ Mustafi - Pepe - Cahill
Juanfran - Jorginho - Gundogan - Hector
-------------- R Sanches - Eriksen
------------------- Aubameyang
Subs: Foderingham, Milner, Wilshere, Xhaka, Bernard, D Costa, Immobile
-----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Chelsea, hopefully our back three will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 3-4-2-1 today, Ter Stegen in goal, Mustafi, Pepe and Cahill in the back three, Juanfran and Hector as wingbacks, Jorginho and Gundogan anchoring the midfield, with Christian Eriksen and Renato Sanches in attacking midfield roles off of Aubameyang upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Chelsea are strong and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Ter Stegen - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Aubameyang.
Mustafi/Pepe/Cahill - Cahill and Mustafi to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Pepe to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Two of you go forward for setpieces.
Juanfran/Hector - Both of you to force the Chelsea wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back five with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Eriksen and Sanches 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 Aubameyang and link with Jorginho/Gundogan. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Jorginho/Gundogan - Gundogan playing the box to box role, assist Jorginho in dealing with the Chelsea attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Jorginho stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Jorginho to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Gundogan to burst forward to join the front three on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others.
Eriksen/Sanches - Playing at AM, both with the trickery to beat the Chelsea fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Aubameyang with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Jorginho/Gundogan, and capitalise on the space Aubameyang's presence will create for you.
Aubameyang - you will be expected to occupy the Chelsea centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Eriksen and Sanches on occasion. Try and link with those two to create opportunities.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Sanches off, Xhaka on. 5-3-1-1, wingbacks to fullback, Xhaka in midfield alongside Gundogan and Jorginho, Eriksen behind Aubameyang.
If drawing: Mustafi and Sanches off, Bernard and Douglas Costa on. Change to 4-2-3-1, Juanfran - Pepe - Cahill - Hector, Gundogan and Jorginho in midfield, D Costa - Eriksen - Bernard behind Aubameyang upfront.
If losing: R Sanches, Mustafi and Cahill off, Immobile, Bernard and Douglas Costa on. 3-1-4-2, Juanfran - Pepe - Hector, Jorginho the playmaker, D Costa - Gundogan - Eriksen - Bernard behind Aubameyang and Immobile upfront. Push for goals.
comment by Fan Gillhaus 1903 (U3339)
posted 6 days, 15 hours ago
v Arsenal SAT/SUN - Reposted
--------------------- Butland ---------------------
D.Sidibe --- Rudiger --- Vertong --- Kurzawa
-------------------- Wanyama --------------------
------------ M.Kovacic -- Strootman -----------
Sterling --------------------------------- Min-Son
-------------------- Lacazette --------------------
Strakosha, Retsos, Blind, Delph, Lingard, Correa, Gabbiadini
In goal Butland, a super confident keeper, excellent shot stopper, who will close down strikers and reduce there shooting angels, look to spread the play from the back and release our wide men early. Many attacks will start from the goalkeeper.
Sidibe and Kurzawa have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, one always staying back so we will have a back 3, they will bomb down the line supporting the wingers, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Lacazette. They look to play one twos with the attacking midfield 3 which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Rudiger the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Vertonghen alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, bot hstrong defenders, dominate in the air and good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Rudiger and Vertonghen up for corners, fullbacks and Wanyama stay back. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both Vertonghen and Rudiger are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..
Wanyama's primary role is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defence where the opposition’s number 10 will likely to be operating whilst also being aware when the full-backs had pushed forward.Take care of of the No 10/SS is also a main focus, stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat
Strootman is our box-to-box midfielder and has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for team mates, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running they are expected to do. The box-to-box midfielder is more likely to be found on the side of the pitch where the full-back that is less efficient in the attacking third plays to provide balance on both flanks. Kovacic's main responsibility is to create chances for the three attackers in front of him. He will often find himself the furthest forward of the three midfielders and sometimes even in the number 10 role if the correct situation arises. The main requirement of Kovacic is creativity; he needs to be able to play a pass that penetrates the opposition’s defense or dictates the direction of the attack These three should work well together and between them have everything a midfield needs.
Sterling and Son are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos, using Kovacic to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drives passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of himself centrally. Sane will use his tricks and flicks and pace to get him where he wants to be, again using Kovacic to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Lacazette so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.Lacazette will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two/three with the aid of Kovacic and the wingers. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges with hopefully a few crosses coming in he can get up and above defenders for. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Sterling,Kovacic and Son will be making his runs also so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side if he cant go for goal himself. But especially look for Kovacic as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.
Captain - Vertonghen
Penalties - Lacazette
Free kicks - Kovacic
Corners - Wingers
Subs -
Losing -
60 Mins - Correa for Strootman 424 Correa up top with Lacazette
70 Mins - Retsos for Sidibe, he goes into a back 3, Kurzawa to LM and Son up front to the left of Lacazette
80 Mins - Gabbiadini for Son
Drawing -
70 Mins - Correa for Strootman 4231 he goes to No.10
80 Mins - Lingard for Son
Winning -
70 Mins - Delph for Strootman
80 Mins - Correa for Lacazette, Blind for Kurzawa(more defensive)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
comment by Fan Gillhaus 1903 (U3339)
posted 4 days, 19 hours ago reposted
Wolves on SATURDAY/SUNDAY
----------------------- De Gea -----------------------
Carvajal ---- Sanchez ---- Lenglet ---- A.Sandro
---------- Rakitic --- Paredes --- Draxler ---------
Mbappe ------------- Poulsen ------------- Neymar
Heaton, Henrichs, Tolisso, Pogba, Brandt, Aguero, Jesus
We want to play high tempo football with plenty of possession, no point in long balls with the lack of height up front so lets start from the back and play through them, quick one touch, triangles to get beyond the lines of defence
In goal De Gea a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, shouting instructions to his defenders. Out very quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.
Sanchez and Lenglet at CB, Lenglet picks up th CF, Sanchez sits spare, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, by getting onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it away, look to move it simply to Paredes or our fullabacks as we look to start our attacks from deep.
Carbajal and Sandro at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Both are perfect for this, They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. A lot of focus today is getting the ball wide, so both can attack, hence the three in midfield, they drive down the line in support of the wingers, Sandro gets outside Neymar to allow him to cut inside whereas Carbajal will support Mbappe by either pushing out wide or going inside to allow the winger to drive passed his man, but the two always make themselves available to the wingers.
Our midfield 3 are essential to our style of play, Paredes central sits a little deeper as he looks to pick up the ball from CBs or GK, a quick turn and head up he will look to get us moving with a ball either out wide to Carvajal/Sandro or a little further up to the wingers, if he is getting hounded down then he is physical enough to brush these players off him, having Draxler and Rakitic alongside allows him the time as they shield him, they don't allow anyone to get on top of Paredes which gives him that extra second to get the ball moving. We can move very quickly from defence to attack, so if Wolves are up field and lose it then we can counter very quickly,
like said Draxler and Rakitic are vital in both defensive and attacking mode, they with Paredes shield our back 4 but when we are in control they will push just up ahead of Paredes to support the attack, they will at times receive the ball from the fullbacks so a quick pass back or ahead to the wingers, playing the ball in triangles to get round the opposition quickly will get them away from the Wolves fullbacks/midfielders. I want them to be a dominating midfield 3 in both defence and attack and work as a unit. Draxler will be the one furthest up field to support Poulsen , looking to get him in on goal or indeed have a go himself, Poulsen good in the air so Draxler can get beyond him as he flicks it on or just lays it back for him.
In Mbappe and Neymar we will look to push them back up the pitch by pressing them, as everyone keeps reminding me these two aren't the best tacklers or at tracking back all I want them to do is get into the face of the fullbacks, stop them breaking up the pitch and getting up to support their own forwards. When attacking they will have the support from Carvajal/Sandro as we look to have a real go down the flanks, Mbappe is more of a 'winger' than Neymar so he will drive down the line with pace, beating his man along the way, can use Rakitic and Carvajal as the three look to eventually get the ball into Poulsen or Neymar driving in from the left. Neymar himself does all the fancy stuff, but it does tend to come off, so we allow him to be free today, with Sandro in support and Draxler there making himself available like the right our left will be very dangerous
We want a high tempo game from our midfield 5 if you want to call it that, passing and moving, getting it out wide to where we see our strengths, push them back wards even when they have the ball, they may well have possession but if its in there own half they wont cause us many problems.
Poulsen will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower/Smaller of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Mbappe and Neymar, Draxler, who will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side. But especially look for Neymar as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.As he is good in the air he will win a good amount of headers so will look to flick it on for the runners or knock it down for them comin in
Captain - Rakitic
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Subs
Winnng
70 Mins - Tolisso for Draxler, help out the midfield defensively as they start bring on more forwards and Aguero for Poulsen
80 Mins - Henrichs for Mbappe and go to RM to help out Carvajal
Losing -
65 Mins - Aguero and Jesus for Draxler and Poulsen 424
80 Mins - Sandro to LM, Neymar up top 343, Pogba com eon for Rakitic
Drawing
70 Mins - Tolisso for Rakitic, Aguero for Poulsen freshen things up Aguero will run at everything
80 Mins - Pogba for Draxler
------------------------- DeGea --------------------------
Carvajal ----- Bonucci ----- Laporte ----- Grimaldo
----------- Tolisso --- Busquets --- Pogba ------------
Mbappe --------------- Aguero --------------- Neymar
Heaton, Sanchez, Rabiot, Draxler, Coman, Jesus, Poulsen
We want to play high tempo football with plenty of possession, no point in long balls with the lack of height up front so lets start from the back and play through them, quick one touch, triangles to get beyond the lines of defence
In goal De Gea a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, shouting instructions to his defenders. Out very quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.
Bonucci and Laporte at CB, Laporte picks up th CF, Bonucci sits spare, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, by getting onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it away, look to move it simply to Busquets or our fullbacks as we look to start our attacks from deep.
Carvajal and Grimaldo at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Both are perfect for this, They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. A lot of focus today is getting the ball wide, so both can attack, hence the three in midfield, they drive down the line in support of the wingers, Grimaldo gets outside Neymar to allow him to cut inside whereas Carvajal will support Mbappe by either pushing out wide or going inside to allow the winger to drive passed his man, but the two always make themselves available to the wingers.
Our midfield 3 are essential to our style of play, Busquets central sits a little deeper as he looks to pick up the ball from CBs or GK, a quick turn and head up he will look to get us moving with a ball either out wide to Carvajal/Grimaldo or a little further up to the wingers, if he is getting hounded down then he is physical enough to brush these players off him, having Pogba and Tolisso alongside allows him the time as they shield him, they don't allow anyone to get on top of Busquets which gives him that extra second to get the ball moving. We can move very quickly from defence to attack, so if Wolves are up field and lose it then we can counter very quickly,
like said Pogba and Tolisso are vital in both defensive and attacking mode, they with Busquets shield our back 4 but when we are in control they will push just up ahead of Busquets to support the attack, they will at times receive the ball from the fullbacks so a quick pass back or ahead to the wingers, playing the ball in triangles to get round the opposition quickly will get them away from the Wolves fullbacks/midfielders. I want them to be a dominating midfield 3 in both defence and attack and work as a unit. Pogba will be the one furthest up field to support Aguero , looking to get him in on goal or indeed have a go himself,
In Mbappe and Neymar we will look to push them back up the pitch by pressing them, as everyone keeps reminding me these two aren't the best tacklers or at tracking back all I want them to do is get into the face of the fullbacks, stop them breaking up the pitch and getting up to support their own forwards. When attacking they will have the support from Carvajal/Grimaldo as we look to have a real go down the flanks, Mbappe is more of a 'winger' than Neymar so he will drive down the line with pace, beating his man along the way, can use Tolisso and Carvajal as the three look to eventually get the ball into Aguero or Neymar driving in from the left. Neymar himself does all the fancy stuff, but it does tend to come off, so we allow him to be free today, with Grimaldo in support and Pogba there making himself available like the right our left will be very dangerous
We want a high tempo game from our midfield 5 if you want to call it that, passing and moving, getting it out wide to where we see our strengths, push them back wards even when they have the ball, they may well have possession but if its in there own half they wont cause us many problems.
Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Mbappe and Neymar & Pogba, who will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side. But especially look for Neymar as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.If he cant go for goal he will look to bring others into the game with short passes or lay offs.
Captain - Bonucci
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Subs
Winnng -
70 Mins - Rabiot for Pogba and he can sit in, will still get forward if needed but sporadically
80 Mins - Poulsen for Aguero will hold it up well and look to bully defenders
85 Mins - Coman for Mbappe on to take the ball on a run and into corners
Losing -
70 Mins - Jesus for Pogba 442
80 Mins - Coman for Mbappe & Poulsen for Aguero, look to get the crosses in for Poulsen to win and get to Jesus
Drawing -
70 Mins - Draxler for Pogba, fresh energy in the centre of pitch and a new attacking threat
75 Mins - Jesus for Aguero, Coman for Mbappe
85 Mins - Draxler to AM
Hull City v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Injuries:
Blaise Matuidi, Tiemoue Bakayoko, Oguzhan Ozyakup, Nathaniel Chalobah
--------------------- K.Navas ---------------------
D.Alves --- Van Dijk --- Chiellini – Rodriguez
------- B.Silva ---- Verratti ---- Fabregas -----
-- T.Lemar ------ M.Balotelli ------- L.Sane --
Subs:
Forster, J.Boateng, L.Shaw, A.Young, Willian, M.Dembele, A.Morata
Captain: Chiellini
Free Kicks: Rodriguez
Penalties: Balotelli
Corners: Fabregas
Another big game and we go with a strong lineup. A back four of D.Alves, VVD, Chiellini and Rodriguez. A midfield trio of Verratti, Cesc and Bernardo playing in the CM roles. Lemar and Sane occupy the flanks with Balotelli playing through the middle.
Goalkeeper – Keylor Navas – Fantastic shot stopping keeper whose job is to distribute from the back with a plethora of options in front of him. He will look to dominate the box, come for the ball and be commanding on set pieces. We look to start attacks from the back, distributing to the full backs or if the opposition press we bypass this by taking advantage of the plethora of options in front of him. The primary aim however is to get the ball to our creative CM’s as quickly as possible.
Centre Backs – We go with the physically commanding centre halve pairing of van Dijk and Chiellini, with the pace and athleticism of the former combined with the strength and experience of the latter we feel we have the perfect combination to neutralise the threat posed by the opposition. If the opposition play with one up top Chiellini will mark with VVD offering cover in behind. The aim will be to stick tight to the forward and giving no room to manoeuvre, look to anticipate and cut off the ball into feet with VVD sweeping up if the opposition go long. With two extremely strong centre halves we will look to dominate and overpower the centre forward. Both are comfortable on the ball and we are not afraid to bring the ball out from the back. Draw the opposition on to us and exploit the space in behind.
Full Backs – Two solid full backs who's focus today will be providing support to the attack. When the opposition are in possession they drop back, creating a rigid back 4 with the centre halves playing close together leaving no space in or around our box. We force the wingers out wide, make them play down the line and do not allow them to come inside. If the opposition play with inverted wingers this will severely negate their ability to come inside and shoot as they will be forced to go down the line and cross with their weaker foot. Our commanding centre halves will deal with any balls into the box. When in possession the full backs have license to push forward and offer width, although only one will push forward at a time with the other offering cover in defence. They will be tasked with whipping balls in behind the opposition’s defence as we look to utilise the pace offered by our front 3.
Central Midfield – In the centre we utilise Verratti who’s tenacity and quality is integral to how we play. He will play through the middle and will be tasked with breaking up the oppositions play and providing the holding force whilst Silva and Cesc pull the strings beside him. If the opposition play with an AM Verratti will sit on him, cutting out the supply line to the striker. He will be the deep lying playmaker who alongside Bernardo Silva and Fabregas will aim to pull the strings in the middle of the park, dictating the play with Bernardo in particular having license to push forward and join the attack. We aim to control the game by getting the ball to these three and letting them pick apart the opposition. With three quality forwards ahead of them they will have plenty of options, sliding the ball in behind the opposition defence if they play a high or unpicking the lock should they sit deep and camp inside their own box. Retaining possession will be key and we have three of the best technical passers of the ball around and will look to move the opposition out of position and aim to create plenty of scoring opportunities.
Forwards – We play three up top with a central striker and two pacey wide forwards. Though the middle we play Balotelli who is in fine form and will look to continue his scoring streak in today’s game. He offers both pace and power which combined with deadly finishing we expect him to take any goal scoring chances that come his way. We will look to utilise the technical quality of our three central midfield players playing passes in behind the defence to maximise the pace of our front three. Lemar and Sane will make continuous runs in behind the defence, when our fullbacks push forward they will attack the box, one at the near post, one at the back with Balotelli in the middle. They will force the oppositions full backs to track them into the box which opens up space for the likes of Silva and Fabregas to exploit from midfield.
When the opposition are in possession – we drop into a 4-5-1 formation, the wingers drop into midfield making it increasingly difficult for the opposition to play through us. We sit deep and do not allow any space in behind, drawing the opposition onto us which will create plenty of space which we will look to exploit with a swift counter attack.
When we are in possession – We will look to dominate possession. Comfortable enough in possession we will look to utilise the creativity of our midfield 3 to retain possession and dictate play. The pace of our forwards will be key as we play a front 3 when in possession and force the opposition on the back foot. Set pieces will be key and an area that we will specifically target. Rodriguez’s dead ball delivery is superb and with the aerial ability of Chiellini, van Dijk and Balotelli we will look to cause havoc in the oppositions box at any opportunity. If the free kick is within shooting range then Rodriguez has license to shoot.
Subs 65 mins;
If winning: Silva off, Boateng on. We go 5-4-1, Boateng, Chiellini and VVD playing through the middle of a solid back 5, creating a brick wall in front of our goal as we see the game out.
If drawing: Rodriguez, Silva, Balotelli off, Chiellini, Willian and Morata on, we go to 3-4-3, Chiellini goes to LCB alongside VVD and Boateng in a back 3 with D.Alves and Willian on the flanks behind the front 3 as we push for the winner.
If losing: B.Silva and Lemar off, Morata and Willian on. We go 4-2-4 with Morata and Balotelli play as a front two with Sane and Willian playing either side. A deadly combination in attack as we look to force the opposition back as we go for goals.
Brighton
A very tough game today, but we can get at this Liverpool side, I feel we can target them down the middle and create chances for Falcao to finish.
Playing a 4-3-3/4-5-1, Cech in goal, Cedric, Sokratis, Evans and Bernat across the back, Fellaini, Carvalho and Pastore in midfield, Callejon and Richarlison either side of Falcao upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Liverpool have some world class players in their side although we have some class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front three with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a trio who can dictate the game in Pastore, Fellaini and Carvalho, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Callejon at RW and Richarlisno at LW both able to use their creativity and get at the Liverpool defence with Cedric and Bernat overlapping. Falcao 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.
Cech - 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 Falcao.
Sokratis/Evans - Sokratis to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Evans 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 Carvalho 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.
Cedric/Bernat - Both of you to force the Liverpool 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 Callejon/Richarlison 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 Falcao and link with Fellaini/Carvalho/Pastore. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Fellaini/Carvalho/Pastore - Pastore and Fellaini playing the box to box roles, assist Carvalho dealing with the Liverpool attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Carvalho stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Carvalho to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Pastore to burst forward to join the front four on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others. Fellaini to get forward and provide a physical threat alongside Benzema whenever crosses come into the area.
Callejon/Richarlison - Both playing out wide and both have the creativity and trickery to beat the Hull fullbacks and get crosses in, but both of you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Falcao with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Fellaini/Carvalho/Pastore, and capitalise on the space Falcao's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.
Falcao - you will be expected to occupy the Liverpool centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Callejon/Richarlison on occasion.
------------------
Subs
If Winning
70 Mins - Krychowiak for Fellaini, more energy and defensive cover in the centre
80 Mins - Walcott for Falcao - Use his pace and energy to run down players in the final third
Drawing -
70 Mins - Mkhitaryan for Pastore - see if he can unlock the Liverpool defence
80 Mins - Walcott for Callejon - adds some pace v tiring defenders
82 Mins - A.Diakhaby for Falcao - a new presence up top
Losing -
70 Mins - Mkhitaryan, Krychowiak and Walcott for Fellaini, Pastore and Callejon 4231 with Mkhit in his favoured No.10 role, Krychowiak will try and get the front four moving into space
Should have maybe posted the team with it
Brighton XI to go with tactics above
---------------------- Cech ----------------------
Cedric ---- Sokratis ---- J.Evans ---- Bernat
-------- Fellaini - Carvalho - Pastore --------
J.Callejon -------- Falcao ------- Richarlison
Trapp, Glik, Krychowiak, Mkhitaryan, Walcott, Brekalo, A.Diakhaby
---------------------Buffon
Clyne---Rudiger---Verthongen---Blind
-------------------Wanyama
---------Strootman------Parejo
Sterling-----------------------------Son
------------------Lacazette
Subs
Butland, Kurzawa, Sidibe, Bender, Gray, Cuadrado, Sanabria
Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control of the situation, he and the defence have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance being conceded When he has the ball he will look to offload quickly in the direction of the front 3 to get those quick counters started.
Verthongen is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counter attacks, Both CB"s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid sliding tackles unless necessary instead looking to use our experience to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space with the occasional long ball to the front 3 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.
For the full backs today the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly and launching an attack of our own.
Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who they go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 3 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift 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 Lacazette, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece due to the ability of our set piece takers. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.
When Lacazette is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead of the defender and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.
Set Pieces
Corners - Parejo takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Lacazette 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, Son and Sterling flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Wanyama looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Strooty takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, as well as occasionally providing the short option to try and draw 2 defenders out of the box.
Free Kicks - Parejo takes Direct FK's
For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners
Penalties - Lacazette is the designated taker.
Subs
If Winning
70 mins - Cuadrado for Son - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
82 + 86 Mins - Vecino for Parejo and Gray for Sterling - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Kurzawa for Blind - Add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
67 Mins - Cuadrado and Kurzawa for Wanyama and Clyne - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.
4-3-3 Total Football
At home and with a strong defence, we take the game to Everton. A defence capable of playing out from the back with an energetic midfield with Koke and Asensio creating for a fluid front three. Ronaldo on the right, but he and Hazard just play where they want really.
High tempo football played at pace. Seamless interchanging of positions in attack, and relentless pressing in our own half when defending.
We look to play our usual game and take the game to Everton, passing out from the back and with an energetic midfield trio. Find space in between the opposition lines. Knock the ball about the opposition, tiring them out, and allowing us to push players forward into attack. Isolate their attacking players.
Both fbs bomb forward , providing our wingers creative freedom in attack, let them find space. The fbs offer width, allowing our attackers to support each other and overload the opposition cbs. Fbs and midfielders both look to get balls into the box, use Costa and Ronaldo's strength.
As soon as we get the ball to our midfield, we look to move the ball quickly, quick passing and moving.
Kante the dm reading the play looking to win the ball back, Koke offers another strong defensive player next to him with Asensio's energy also important for pressing. Get Koke and Asensio on the ball and looking to play neat one twos in between the lines to open up the opposition using the pace of our attacking trio.
--------------------- Neuer
Azpilicueta - Ramos - Otamendi - Marcelo
-------------------- Kante
---------------- Koke --- Asensio
-- Ronaldo ------------------------- E.Hazard -
------------------- D.Costa
Subs. Schmeichel, Odriozola, E.Can, Malcom, Herrera, Vitolo, Guedes
Defence
We have a quick defence and energy and pace in midfield to stop quick breaks.
We defend in a 4-4-2 formation. Hazard drops to LM. Asensio RM. Allow Costa and Ronaldo the freedom of staying further forward. Giving us a great out ball and two players than can hold the ball up, and break on their own if need be.
Control the opposition by pressing the space with a narrow, compact rigid defensive unit, only allowing them to play in areas we want them to. When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Looking to stop any attacks before they begin.
Look to leave no space for them in between the lines, make it difficult for them to create, if they beat a man, they'll run into another. The wide midfielders will track any forward runs made by their fbs/wbs, and Kante presses the space in front of our cbs, sweeping up danger in front of the defence when it gets through, Koke pressing the ball.
In this tight formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Kante will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, getting across to cut out any danger. The winger opposite play comes inside and picks up the other cm.
As we drop deeper we are really compact. No space in between the lines. Isolate their attackers and force them to take risks.
Attack
We will counter quickly using Costa and Ronaldo who we leave up top when we can. Where it's not we build possession from the back. The defenders will be a bit more patient on the ball taking care with their passing. When the midfielders get the ball they look to move it quickly, playing quick one twos or spreading the play to our wingers/forwards.
Positional structure, in addition to our technical players will be key to our quick passing gameplan going forward. Our approach in build up is to play a flexible asymmetric shape, 2 cb supported by Kante and fbs pushing on that comes close to the first line to provide strong connection in order to transit the ball between the lines.
Koke and Asensio work the ball to space and to the forwards. Koke advances in line with Asensio, who will also have Hazard looking to come deeper to link with him. The two fbs continue to progress offering an option wide.
These players will look to find spaces in between the Everton lines. As we progress to this next line Kante stays in the dm position. Looking to push more players further forward as we progress, the fbs looks to overlap the wingers. Asensio and Koke seeking to link up with the fbs and wingers.
We let our attackers play natural game in the final third. Create chances and score. Simple.
Subs. If winning or drawing fter 65 mins bring on Malcom for D.Costa. Fresh pace and more natural width. Get at Everton as more space appears.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Ander for Asensio. Fresh energy.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Guedes for Ronaldo. Hazard central. Pure pace.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Guedes for Asensio. 4-2-4.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Odriozola for Azpi. More attacking fb.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Malcom and Herrera for Costa and Marcelo. Azpi in back 3. 3-3-4. Malcom and Asensio wide attackers.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Guedes for Herrera. Gund ho, 3-2-3-2. Guedes up top with Ronaldo.
————————Courtois
Fabinho—Christensen—Umtiti—Gaya
—————Torreira——Zielinski
—Carrasco———Dybala———Sisto
———————Icardi
Subs: Pope, Lindelof, Ceballos, Tielemans, Sabitzer, Philipp, Mariano
Captain: Thibaut Courtois
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala(left/centre)/Fabinho(right)
Corners: Fabinho
Penalties: Fabinho
Our build up will usually take place in a 2-3-2-3/3-2-2-3 today in order to create overloads and passing lanes within the opposition lines of defence. For a clean build up we need numerical superiority so if they press with their forwards Fabinho will tuck in next to the CBs whilst Zielinski and Torreira drop to receive the ball from the defence, with Dybala and Sisto occupying the 10 spaces and Gaya and Carrasco high and wide to stretch the opposition back line. If Brighton drop off then we change this by having Fabinho pushing into CM to create a 3 man CM. This will then allow our CBs to bring the ball forward and play the ball to one of the three CMs, once this happens a Brighton midfielder will have to step out to slow play down and this will open space up for Dybala and Sisto in behind the opposition midfield.
Once we establish dominance of possession and force Brighton to be more compact defensively to stop these gaps opening up our aim is to create overloads to create space in the opposite side, usually this would be through the flanks or the half spaces. To make this happen we need constant movement of players and clever ball circulation, with never more than 3 players in vertical or horizontal alignment, working in triangles or duos, so that when Gaya stretches high and wide, Sisto takes up the half space, when Gaya sits deeper and inverted, Sisto occupies the touchline, when Gaya is infield, Zielinski can move forward into the half space etc.
To create space on the flanks we we build up centrally, inverting Fabinho at all times as he can occupy the right half space and pick his passes from there, including the long diagonal switches to the underloaded flank that’s going to kill Brighton today. By having a 3 man midfield of Fabinho, Torreira and Gaya/Zielinski and then Dybala and Sisto/Zielinski further a head in the half spaces we give Brighton’s midfield a lot more space to cover and they will need their wingers to respond by tucking in, once this happens we will create 1 v 1’s on the flanks, Carrasco vs Bernat, Gaya/Sisto vs Cedric, where we have a clear advantage, we should be looking to get the ball to them as quickly as possible to take advantage, be that from the CMs or the CBs who can completely bypass their midfield with their passing range.
To open spaces in the half space we overload the opposite side so for example if the ball goes to the right half space with Fabinho, Carrasco comes deeper to support, Dybala drops to create a diamond and Torreira and Zielinski also push a cross to force Brighton to commit numbers to defending this area. When we have them pulled across we look to switch the play quickly, be it with a long ball to the opposite flank where Gaya will wait to receive, or a flatter pass into the opposite side half space where Sisto will wait, in space ready to run at the Brighton backline.
To finish off moves we look to get the ball into the box where Icardi will be waiting to pounce, with Dybala and opposite side winger also able to flood the area for the passes.
Off the ball the 2-3-2-3 should allow us a solid structure to press the opposition quickly. The advanced 5 should be doing the pressing when the ball is lost up the field and from goal kicks, focusing on squeezing Brighton into one corner, so if the ball goes to the RCB/RB Icardi and the wide player are the first line press with the opposite winger and the 2 AM’s being the 2nd line press to block of the routes to the other side and vertical lanes, pen them in and force them to go longer, Brighton’s midfield won’t play through us today.
This then allows the remaining block of 5 to form a bowl shape around the opposition attackers, with Fabinho and Zielinski/Gaya covering the half space and flanks, Umtiti marking the CF, and Christensen providing the additional cover be it to his side or in front of him. Torreira covers the central ground, when others put the pressure on he comes to mop up with his great work rate and then use his passing range to restart attacks.
If we are forced to defend deeper we remain in our 4-2-3-1, a solid shape with allows us to cover the length of the field and keep our strength centrally with Torreira and Zielinski able to the dirty work whilst Dybala stops the DM dictating the tempo. Carrasco and Sisto two hard working wingers who will track back as is needed.
Subs:
If Winning: Sabitzer and Philipp for Carrasco 70’ and Sisto, fresh legs to continue with our excellent work rate off the ball, as well as offering a huge threat off it. Lindelof for Dybala 80’, 5-4-1.
If Drawing: Sabitzer and Philipp for Carrasco and Sisto 70’, fresh legs, Philipp someone who can play as another CF when Gaya attacks the flank. Ceballos for Zielinski 75’, look to get on the ball and control the tempo, make things happen.
If Losing: Mariano for Gaya 60’, 3-4-3 with offensive WBs, back 3 will go man to man. Philipp for Sisto 70’. Tielemans for Zielinski 75’, can play as our box to box and use his long range shooting as a weapon.
Villa vs Stoke
—————————Rico
Almamy——Zouma--—Diop——Jorge
—Soler——Diawara—Jankto—Oyarzabal
——————Schick——B.Keita
Subs: Dragowski, Wober, Laimer, Barella, Lo Celso, Bertrand Traore, Saint-Maximin
Captain: Issa Diop
Corners: Carlos Soler
Free Kicks: Jakub Jankto
Penalties: Balde Keita
We expect a very attack minded Villa side so we are going to be patient, frustrate them and wait for the chance to attack in behind. We expect them to want to play out from the back, we will allow their CBs possession of the ball and instead focus on defending their attackers. Our aim is to force them wider as this is where they will be least dangerous. Schick and B.Keita as the first line of defence today will take up dealing with the deep CMs, stay touch tight to them off the ball so that they cannot be effective in build up. That allows us to then get 8 players, two narrow banks of 4 to cover the rest of the space, making the centre of the field massively congested. Force them to try and build up wide and then shuffle across to use our same structure but in the wide areas, using the touchline as an extra weapon to press them.
Our midfield four will create a narrow zonal line, Soler and Oyarzabal occupying half spaces and Diawara and Jankto the central lanes. The back four will also be narrow and compact to the the midfield line to keep everything very tight. Each player then will have their zone, when the ball enters this zone, particularly the midfield line, they will press the ball carrier whilst the other 3 drops behind the ball so we can put pressure on but not lose ur shape, when one midfielder steps out to press the ball side CF will come to press from behind. The combination of 3 compact lines and zonal pressure should force Villa to use the WBs more often, once this happens we can go 2 v 1 with wide man and FB, wide man pressing and FB behind to back him up. Keita will drop back in and create a staggered diamond with the remaining 3 midfielders, Keita at the tip moving towards ball side and Diawara at the base, not allowing gaps between the lines. Far side CM will step up to block any switches of play and the ball side CM will step across to block the route central. Any pass into this diamond and it narrows very quickly, all four players working hard to shut the ball carried and his passing lanes down. Keep the opposition down the flank, if it goes forward, wide man and FB press harder, if it goes backwards, wide man and Keita press harder, working 2 vs 1. Back four should remain in their line at all times, when the ball side FB has to step out, the rest shuffle across. In Diop and Zouma we have the power and pace to deal with any type of CF.
Going forward we have a great amount of pace and we should be looking to target Villa down the sides of their defence. Our two side midfielders love to burst forward and when we win the ball wide the first thing that needs to happen is that we take advantage of the 2 v 1 we have out wide, for example on the left, if Jorge wins it, Oyarzabal must make a run for him, if Oarzabal wins it, Jorge must overlap into the space behind. Two strikers up front and both love to play on the counter so when the ball is won they must be off, most of the time we want Keita moving out to the left when we win it back and Schick out to the right, for quick balls forward to them up against the wide CBs, isolate them one v one and do them for pace and power. This will be particularly effective with Keita against their RCB, he’ll be dragged into an unfamiliar RB role and Keita flourishes with space to run at a player on the back foot. When we win it centrally then the first look must be for runners into wide areas. If its the wide men/FBs bringing it forward then we want both strikers in the middle, working on a tandem, usually Schick coming to support play and drag defenders out and Keita running behind, but at times Schick can play off of Keita. Second option if we can’t attack the wide spaces is to use Balde Keita’s dribbling through the middle, he has the beating of the Villa CMs for pace and skill and if he can take them out of the game it will force the CBs and WBs to leave their position and leave space for blind side runs for supporting players. Third option is longer balls into Schick, one touch lay offs to Keita to burst beyond him, or lay offs into wider areas. He can also look to position himself for diagonal switches of play, attacking the free side of the pitch. CMs will look to stay deeper so we can’t get caught out in turnovers, instead using their range of passing to hurt Villa from deep.
Subs:
If Winning: Wober for Balde Keita 70’, 5-4-1, control the length of the pitch with a back 5 and keep the middle compact. Barella for Oyarzabal 75’, we can even use a diamond midfield at times to close down space. Laimer for Jankto 80’.
If Drawing: Bertrand Traore for Schick 70’, more speed, look to get in behind and down the sides. Lo Celso for Oyarzabal, Barella for Jankto 75’, fresh legs in midfield to keep competing.
If Losing: Change to a 3-5-2 with Almamy CB, Oyarzabal RWB, Jorge LWB. Lo Celso for Jankto 65’, add more creativity behind the strikers with Soler and Lo Celso looking to move about the midfield. Traore for Schick 75’, fresh pace. Saint Maximin for Jorge 80’.
BRUM vs Portsmouth
-------------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Bellerin------------Gomez---------------Bailly-------------Alonso
---------------------------------------Matic-------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inaki---------------------------------------------------------------------Perisic
-----------------------------------------Alli-------------------------------------------
------------------------Gomez--------------Rashford--------------------------
Subs - Batalla, Ake, Allan, Winks, Lingard, Calvert Lewin, Rodrigo
CAPTAIN - MATIC
CK'S - PERISIC
FK'S - PERISIC
PENALTIES - PERISIC
Welcome back lads! Made some signings over the winter break let's give them a chance to prove themselves. Going for a 41212 formation. The DM will fully focus on defensive duties so the attacking players have the freedom to do their stuff.
I want us to play high up and to not give the Portsmouth attackers any room to breath. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. When we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
Lafont a quality young keeper. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Gomez and Bailly bring a whole lot of pace to the defence. They are probably 2 of the quickest CB's around and will be able to handle any pacy players coming at them. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Matic will be covering for them when they go attacking.
Defence Mid
Matic
Matic will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or play a through ball from deep to our strikers.
Wingers
Inaki + Perisic
Inaki and Perisic are two quick wingers but with a sense of physicality to them. They are tall and have to ability to use their strength to shrug off oppo defenders. Inaki will look to play on the outside and get to the byline and whip in some crosses. Perisic likewise although he is one of the most ambidextrous footed players in the world and is comfortable on using both his feet, so I want him to mix things up and cut in from time to time and make space for a shot. I want you both to help track back and help the full backs when they are in our half of the pitch.
Attack Mid
Dele Alli
Dele will look to have a free role in midfield. I want him to make different types of runs from midfield so it is harder for the oppo to mark you. Make diagonal runs and drift into the wings etc. You will be the link between the midfield and the attack. Play quick passes and play 1 2's to find space and create a chance to shoot.
Strikers
Gomez + Rashford
Gomez will be the target man striker who will look to hold the ball up and bring others around him into the game. When we whip in crosses he will be the main target, as he is a threat in the air. Rashford will look to use his pace and play off the oppo defenders shoulders and try and outpace them. With 2 different types of strikers, it will be a mare for the oppo to mark them.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Rodrigo for Gomez. Also bring on Lingard for Inaki and Allan for Matic. Play a high line and try and get a goal.
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Rashford and put on Maguire in CB and play 5atb ultra defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives. Allan on for Perisic aswell and Lingard on for Inaki to bring some much needed freshness in midfield.
-------------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Bellerin--------Gomez------Maguire---------Bailly---------Alonso
-----------------------------Allan------------Matic-------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Lingard---------------------------Alli--------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------Gomez---------------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Gomez off for Rodrigo
Alli off for Lingard
Inaki off for Calvert Lewin
Fresh legs to bring on.
--------------------------Horn
Weiser----F. de Jong-------Baumgartl------Max
--------------Ascacíbar-------Dahoud
-------Mahrez---------Ziyech----------Forsberg
----------------------Ibrahimovic
Subs: Pollersbeck, Plattenhardt, Tousart, Aouar, Ben Arfa, Younes, Selke
Our defensive unit consists of Frenkie de Jong and Timo Baumgartl paired up at centre-back, Mitchell Weiser at right-back and Philipp Max at left-back, with Frenkie de Jong and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Ascacíbar and Dahoud we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Dahoud can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as de Jong can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Dahoud’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Dahoud running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Santiago Ascacíbar.
A holding midfielder through and through, de Jong is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Ascacíbar such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Riyad Mahrez, Hakim Ziyech and Emil Forsberg as our band of three attacking midfielders with Zlatan Ibrahimovic as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Ascacíbar or Dahoud, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Weiser and Max can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Ascacíbar and Dahoud can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Riyad Mahrez and Emil Forsberg, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Hakim Ziyech our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Ziyech is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer who will look to play Mahrez, Forsberg or Ibrahimovic in via fast passing combinations.
Ibrahimovic is a formidable centre forward and he possesses the technical qualities and versatility to shine in this game. He’ll be physically imposing and not only will he be a threat in the air, but he can also score via great volleys. We’ll look towards his wonderful finishing and passing ability and he’ll also display good positioning and teamwork, and won’t be afraid to help his team defend.
Subs on 80 mins
Aouar on for Ziyech and Tousart on for Ascacíbar
NEWCASTLE
-----------------------Lloris
-----Hummels-----Sule-----Marquinhos
Florenzi-----Pjanic------Nainggolan-------Rose
-------Salah-------Suarez---------Mane
Subs
Keita, Ozil, Casemiro, N’Zonzi, Danilo (city), Suso, Kane
Hummels is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, the centre backs will always stay back to stop counter attacks, The CB"s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid sliding tackles unless necessary instead looking to use our experience to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space with the occasional long ball to the front 3 or the wing backs thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.
For the wing backs today the objective is to provide the width for the team and keep the oppositon stretched as much as possible, both still have a defensive mindset so will be getting back into a back 5 if we lose the ball. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.
The focus of the midfield 2 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 3 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Suarez, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece due to the ability of our set piece takers. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.
When Suarez is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead of the defender and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul, his unpredictable style when on the ball will look to cause a bit of doubt in the minds of the defenders as he has a knack of bouncing it off peoples shins and it landing in a perfect position for himself to create a chance for himself or others. He also has a knack of being the first to react to get onto rebounds or parries and taking those one touch chances.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.
Set Pieces
Corners - Pjanic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the WB's stay back to prevent counters, 2 of the CB's and Suarez work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball.
Free Kicks - Pjanic takes Direct FK's
For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners
Penalties - Suarez is the designated taker.
Subs
If Winning
70 mins - Danilo for Rose - The wing backs stay back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
82 + 86 Mins - Casemiro for Nainggolan and Suso for Mane - Actively time waste and Mourinho the opposition.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Ozil for Nainggolan - Add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
67 Mins - Ozil and Kane for Nainggolan and Rose - The wings backs act as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.
-------------------------- Ederson
------- Alderwer'd ------ Javi.M ----- Varane
K.Walker -- Fernandinho ----- A.Vidal ------ Ghoulam
---------------- De Bruyne ----- A.Sanchez
------------------------ Timo Werner
Subs: Zappacosta, Tah, Kolasinac, Khedira, D.Silva, A.Martial, Mertens
One or two strong additions made to the side to ensure we remain highly competitive in the second half of the season and push for those top spots.
We look to play a high tempo possession game today, looking to stretch Birmingham out wide with our quick FB's and opening up the game within the central areas so our influential attackers can dictate.
Pass & move and quick link up play, switching the play on a regular basis, creating space for our players in mf & attacking zones and making Birmingham chase the ball to create holes in their backline.
Initially playing out from the back, Ederson's distribution is one of the best in the game. As we move the ball into midfield, Javi Martinez will move into more of a pivot role alongside Fernandinho to allow Vidal to burst forward, as he has been very productive this season.
Werner plays off the shoulder, perfect CF to run the channels and keep the opposition CB's on their feet, drag the CB's wide and create space for the likes of De Bruyne and Sanchez to operate in higher up field. Fox in and around the box looking to pounce on anything loose.
Defensively, we revert to a compact 3-5-2. De Bruyne moves into AM looking to form a midfield trio and man-mark their most influential CM. A.Sanchez plays alongside Werner pressing intensively from the front.
3-4-3- Possession based:
It starts from the back. Ederson is very able with his hands and feet and should look to find our players in space.
The CB trio are excellent on the ball, very good passing success rates and should look to move the ball into mf quickly. At times collecting short from Ederson and getting their heads up, looking for movement from the attackers and attempting diagonal or long balls into feet, using Werner and co as target men to bypass their mf.
Alder & Varane should shift slightly wider when on the offense allowing our wing-backs to push up in a bank of 4 in mf.
Fernandinho and Vidal, a midfield pair that will provide plenty of energy and will work their socks off for the side to allow others around them to express themselves. They should look to stamp their authority with their work rate and power looking to take a grip on mf and shielding our defence, oppressing the opposition midfielders and covering every blade of grass out there.
When attacking, Fernandinho sits just infront of the defence and makes himself available for a pass back. A passing outlet if we are being vigorously pressed whilst also allowing us to create space when working the ball around in triangles, also prevent counter attacks.
De Bruyne and Alexis have free roles in attack, at times going wider to support the WG-backs. Sanchez partnering Werner up top with De Bruyne in behind, or them sitting and dictating/driving from deep to open up the game ahead.
Generally they will look to play inbetween the lines, roaming in the oppositions half and and looking to act as the link between midfield and attack. Picking up pockets of space and using their awareness to dictate the play, never afraid to play a key pass in behind to unlock their defence or drive from deep.
Flanks will be key as we look to expose them in wide areas and create space in midfield.
Two quick & powerful WG-backs in Walker and Ghoulam, need to hug the touchline and provide the width allowing us to stretch the opposition. Always on the move so we can get them in behind and use them as outlets going forward when picking a pass.
Very possession orientated, comfortable playing quick 1-2's and accelerating into space, overlapping often and getting early deliveries into the box for our striker/s to attack.
When Birmingham are in possession we will initially look to press from front with our two strikers (Werner & A.Sanchez) and then drop off deeper with men behind the ball if they bypass with a strong block of 5 in midfield.
Don’t allow them to play out from the back and hurry their passes. Our attackers form a duo looking to cut avenues into midfield as one goes to press the ball, force them into tight spots with their backs to goal towards the touchline.
The reason we want our front two to press is to force Birmingham to play long and concede possession, we feel they lack any sort of aerial presence in the side so are less likely to win contested duels.
If they advance we then form a rigid structure looking to press the space and dropping off with men behind the ball, only allowing them to play where we want them too, stifle the midfield and stop them from picking their passes into an attacker, Vidal man-man their AM, looking to harass him and using his physical prowess to really put him off his game, Fernandinho and De Bruyne cutting off passing lanes.
Essentially a 3-5-2, 5 in mf working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wing-backs then drop off to mark the oppositions wingers and help our CB's to prevent any space being left in behind.
Key is leaving no gaps or space to get in behind, working as a staunch unit so their quick attackers have to come deeper to get involved making their first point of contact with the ball much deeper than they anticipated and notably further away from our final third.
When we have them deep we have more to work with, we can plug at them and tactically foul in areas that will prevent them from playing with any flow, breaking up the game.
If we manage to win the ball we must immediately look to counter and hit the opposition hard. Walker & Ghoulam can come up to support the play and provide the width. The front 3 burst forward.
Subs:
IF WINNING: 66th minute – (3-4-3)
- Khedira > Vidal
- Martial > A.Sanchez
- D.Silva > De Bruyne (75th minute)
Compact 3-4-3, Khedira fresh legs in mf, Martial replaces Sanchez and looks to get in behind with his pace and movement. D.Silva plays a similar role to KDB.
IF DRAW: 70th minute – (3-5-2)
- D.Silva > Vidal
- Mertens > Werner
- Khedira > Fernandinho (75th min)
Get D.Silva on looking to provide that spark and get us going forward. Mertens great link-up play and should provide a different option up front. Khedira replaces Fernandinho as CDM.
IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- Mertens > Varane
- Martial > Vidal
- D.Silva > De Bruyne
4-4-2, direct. long balls into the box and constantly looking for the two strikers.
Flood forward and look for an equalizer/winner.
C - Javi.M
FK's - De Bruyne
Corners - De Bruyne/A.Sanchez
Pens – T.Werner
Completely forgot the red
Red Card
Red Card:
In all cases Mane subbed off, if Mane red then no change
If goal keeper, ooopppps
If wing backs, Danilo
If CB, Casemiro and go 4–3-2
If centre mids, Casemiro
If am, Suso
If striker, Kane
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v Newcastle United
Injuries: Semper, Wilshere, Bernard, Digne
-------------------- Ter Stegen
--------- Mustafi - Koscielny - Cahill
Juanfran - Jorginho - Gundogan - Hector
--------------- Eriksen - Sigurdsson
------------------- Aubameyang
Subs: Foderingham, Pepe, Milner, Xhaka, Musonda, L Moura, Immobile
-----------------
In case of red card, switch from 3-4-2-1 to 3-4-1-1
If Ter Stegen: Sigurdsson off, Foderingham on.
If Mustafi/Koscielny/Cahill, Sigurdsson off, Pepe on.
If Juanfran/Hector, Sigurdsson off, Milner on.
If Jorginho/Gundogan, Sigurdsson off, Xhaka on.
If Eriksen/Sigurdsson, no change.
If Aubameyang, Sigurdsson off, Immobile on.
-----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Newcastle, hopefully our back three will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 3-4-2-1 today, Ter Stegen in goal, Mustafi, Koscielny and Cahill in the back three, Juanfran and Hector as wingbacks, Jorginho and Gundogan anchoring the midfield, with Christian Eriksen and Gylfi Sigurdsson in attacking midfield roles off of Aubameyang upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Newcastle are strong and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Ter Stegen - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Aubameyang.
Mustafi/Koscielny/Cahill - Cahill and Mustafi to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Koscielny to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Two of you go forward for setpieces.
Juanfran/Hector - Both of you to force the Newcastle wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back five with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Eriksen and Sigurdsson 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 Aubameyang and link with Jorginho/Gundogan. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Jorginho/Gundogan - Gundogan playing the box to box role, assist Jorginho in dealing with the Newcastle attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Jorginho stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Jorginho to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Gundogan to burst forward to join the front three on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others.
Eriksen/Sigurdsson - Playing at AM, both with the trickery to beat the Newcastle fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Aubameyang with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Jorginho/Gundogan, and capitalise on the space Aubameyang's presence will create for you.
Aubameyang - you will be expected to occupy the Newcastle centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Eriksen and Sigurdsson on occasion. Try and link with those two to create opportunities.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Sigurdsson off, Xhaka on. 5-3-1-1, wingbacks to fullback, Xhaka in midfield alongside Gundogan and Jorginho, Eriksen behind Aubameyang.
If drawing: Cahill off, Lucas Moura on. Change to 4-2-3-1, Juanfran - Mustafi - Koscielny - Hector, Gundogan and Jorginho in midfield, Lucas - Eriksen - Sigurdsson behind Aubameyang upfront.
If losing: Jorginho, Mustafi and Cahill off, Immobile, Lucas Moura and Musonda on. 3-1-4-2, Juanfran - Pepe - Hector, Gundogan the playmaker, Lucas - Sigurdsson - Eriksen - Musonda behind Aubameyang and Immobile upfront. Push for goals.
Chelsea v ARSENAL
Injuries: Mandzukic, Cyprien, Nastasic, Amiri
Pickford
Manolas - Kompany - D Llorente
Valencia - M Llorente - Goretzka - Wendell
D Costa - Belotti - James Rod
Subs: Scuffet, Smalling, D Pereira, Pellegrini, Ramsey, El Shaarawy, Aspas
Playing a 3-4-3 today, hoping to get something from this Chelsea side using the wingbacks for width while keeping the middle and our third congested to frustrate the Chelsea attack. Our front three has plenty of skill and ability to cause the Chelsea defence problems on the counter attack.
Pickford, be wary of long range efforts, command your area, look to distribute to the wingbacks and midfield.
Manolas/Kompany/D Llorente, if they play one striker as expected, Kompany man mark him, and Manolas/D Llorente tuck in and meet their wingers cutting in. Watch for runners from midfield. When we have the ball, look for the wingbacks/midfield/wingers.
Valencia/Wendell, in possession, bomb forward, overlap D Costa/James and get crosses in for Belotti, without the ball drop back and form a back five outside Manolas/D Llorente, look to frustrate the Chelsea wingers by doubling up on them and be wary of the Chelsea fullbacks getting forward. Try and drive the Chelsea fullbacks back to prevent them causing us issues defensively.
M Llorente/Goretzka, both in box to box roles, without the ball both of you sit in front of the back five, frustrate their AM/third CM trying to get forward, but when we have the ball take it in turns to get forward and support the front three, look to supply passes to Belotti down the middle.
D Costa/James, both playing wide in a front three, but both in positions where you can cut infield, link together, and create havoc for the Chelsea defence. Look for Valencia/Wendell overlapping and either feed them passes or use the space created from their runs to create opportunities. Try and supply Belotti with as many chances as possible, his finishing means we should score today if you do your jobs.
Belotti, stay on the deepest Chelsea CB, look to spin in behind to receive passes from the wingbacks/midfield/wingers, be it passes from deep, or from wide. Work hard to close down their defender's if they bring the ball out as they aren't the most confident in possession. Shoot on sight.
Substitutions 70 mins
If winning: Costa off, D Pereira on. Change to a 5-3-1-1, with D Pereira in midfield and James off of Belotti. Wingbacks to fullback.
If drawing: D Llorente off, El Shaarawy on. Change to a 4-2-3-1, Valencia - Manolas - Kompany - Wendell, M Llorente - Goretzka, D Costa - James - El Shaarawy behind Belotti upfront.
If losing: Manolas, M Llorente and D Llorente off, El Shaarawy, Aspas and Ramsey on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, Valencia - Kompany - Wendell, Goretzka as the playmaker, D Costa - James - Ramsey - El Shaarawy behind Belotti - Aspas upfront. Push for goals.
Swap Danilo sub for Pellegrini
Brighton v HULL CITY
--------------------------Horn
Pavard-----Baumgartl-------Kempf--------Max
--------------Ascacíbar-------Dahoud
-------Mahrez---------Ziyech----------Forsberg
----------------------Ibrahimovic
Subs: Pollersbeck, Stark, Plattenhardt, Tousart, Ben Arfa, Younes, Selke
Our defensive unit consists of Timo Baumgartl and Marc-Oliver Kempf paired up at centre-back, Benjamin Pavardat right-back and Philipp Max at left-back, with Santiago Ascacíbar and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Ascacíbar and Dahoud we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Dahoud can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Ascacíbar can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Dahoud’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Dahoud running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Santiago Ascacíbar.
A holding midfielder through and through, Ascacíbar is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Ascacíbar such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Riyad Mahrez, Hakim Ziyech and Emil Forsberg as our band of three attacking midfielders with Zlatan Ibrahimovic as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Ascacíbar or Dahoud, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Pavard and Max can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Ascacíbar and Dahoud can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Riyad Mahrez and Emil Forsberg, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Hakim Ziyech our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Ziyech is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer who will look to play Mahrez, Forsberg or Ibrahimovic in via fast passing combinations.
Ibrahimovic is a formidable centre forward and he possesses the technical qualities and versatility to shine in this game. He’ll be physically imposing and not only will he be a threat in the air, but he can also score via great volleys. We’ll look towards his wonderful finishing and passing ability and he’ll also display good positioning and teamwork, and won’t be afraid to help his team defend.
Subs on 80 mins
Tousart on for Ascacíbar and Younes on for Forsberg
---------------------- De Gea ----------------------
Henrichs --- Bonucci --- Sanchez --- A.Sandro
------- Tolisso ---- Busquets ---- Pogba --------
Mbappe ------------ Aguero ------------ Neymar
Heaton, Laporte, Rabiot, Bailey, Draxler, Poulsen, Jesus
We want to play high tempo football with plenty of possession, no point in long balls with the lack of height up front so lets start from the back and play through them, quick one touch, triangles to get beyond the lines of defence
In goal De Gea a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, shouting instructions to his defenders. Out very quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.
Bonucci and Sanchez at CB, Sanchez picks up th CF, Bonucci sits spare, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, by getting onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it away, look to move it simply to Busquets or our fullbacks as we look to start our attacks from deep. Both go up for corners, Tolisso and the fullbacks stay back.Henrichs and Sandro at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Both are perfect for this, They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. A lot of focus today is getting the ball wide, so both can attack, hence the three in midfield, they drive down the line in support of the wingers, Sandro gets outside Neymar to allow him to cut inside whereas Henrichs will support Mbappe by either pushing out wide or going inside to allow the winger to drive passed his man, but the two always make themselves available to the wingers.
Our midfield 3 are essential to our style of play, Busquets central sits a little deeper as he looks to pick up the ball from CBs or GK, a quick turn and head up he will look to get us moving with a ball either out wide to Henrichs and Sandro or a little further up to the wingers, if he is getting hounded down then he is physical enough to brush these players off him, having Pogba and Tolisso alongside allows him the time as they shield him, they don't allow anyone to get on top of Busquets which gives him that extra second to get the ball moving. We can move very quickly from defence to attack, so if Everton are up field and lose it then we can counter very quickly, like said Pogba and Tolisso are vital in both defensive and attacking mode, they with Busquets shield our back 4 but when we are in control they will push just up ahead of Busquets to support the attack, they will at times receive the ball from the fullbacks so a quick pass back or ahead to the wingers, playing the ball in triangles to get round the opposition quickly will get them away from the Everton fullbacks/midfielders. I want them to be a dominating midfield 3 in both defence and attack and work as a unit. Pogba will be the one furthest up field to support Aguero , looking to get him in on goal or indeed have a go himself,
In Mbappe and Neymar we will look to push them back up the pitch by pressing them, as everyone keeps reminding me these two aren't the best tacklers or at tracking back all I want them to do is get into the face of the fullbacks, stop them breaking up the pitch and getting up to support their own forwards. When attacking they will have the support from Sandro/Henrichs as we look to have a real go down the flanks, Mbappe is more of a 'winger' than Neymar so he will drive down the line with pace, beating his man along the way, can use Tolisso and Henrichs as the three look to eventually get the ball into Aguero or Neymar driving in from the left. Neymar himself does all the fancy stuff, but it does tend to come off, so we allow him to be free today, with Sandro in support and Pogba there making himself available like the right our left will be very dangerous
We want a high tempo game from our midfield 5 if you want to call it that, passing and moving, getting it out wide to where we see our strengths, push them back wards even when they have the ball, they may well have possession but if its in there own half they wont cause us many problems.
Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Mbappe and Neymar & Pogba, who will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side. But especially look for Neymar as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.If he cant go for goal he will look to bring others into the game with short passes or lay offs.
Captain - Bonucci
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Subs
Winning -
70 Mins - Rabiot for Pogba, sit in to provide defensive cover as Everton bring on attackers
70 Mins - Draxler for Neymar, Bailey for Mbappe go to a flat midfield 5 and those two help defensively
Losing -
70 Mins - Bailey for Mbappe, fresh legs and pace down the right hand side and Jesus for Tolisso go 442
80 Mins - Poulsen for Sandro, he is a vocal point up top to aim for Henrichs into a back 3 at LCB 343
Drawing -
70 Mins - Bailey for Mbappe, Jesus for Tolisso, Poulsen for Aguero 4231 with Jesus just off Poulsen as he looks for knock downs from the big CF
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Tactics
Page 57 of 65
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posted on 17/12/17
vs Stoke
———————————Courtois
—————Lindelof——Skriniar——Umtiti
R.Pereira——————-Fabinho——————Gaya
——————Ceballos—————Tielemans
————————Dybala———Icardi
Subs: Svilar, Torreira, Loftus-Cheek, Milinkovic-Savic, Carrasco, Bernardeschi, Mariano
Captain: Thibaut Courtois
Free Kicks: Fabinho(right)/Paulo Dybala(left and centre)
Corners: Youri Tielemans
Penalties: Mauro Icardi
Setting up to dominate the possession today, starting from the back looking to use the excellent playmaking abilities of our CBs. We expect Stoke to come and soak up pressure then counter which means we need to have the variation in our play to open them up, whilst retaining a strong structure.
Building with Fabinho between the first two lines of defence, looking to drag the opposition forward across to one side of the field and allow the opposite side wide CB to bring ball forward, once he steps into midfield we transition with the WB pushing into the forward line to push the opposition FB back and keep him tuck by the touchline to stretch the defence, opposite side WB tucking in alongside Fabinho and the wide CB to create a 2-3-2-3 that keeps up stable in possession. From here we want Dybala occupying the opposite side half space in order to find space. The aim is to overload the ball side area, wide CB bringing it out to draw forward one of the opposition midfielders and then allow Ceballos and Tielemans to go up and double up against the other. Fabinho will act as a 2nd passer remaining between the lines, Ceballos and Tielemans can use each other and Fabinho/wide CB to take the CM’s out of the game and get between midfield and defence, or find a ball through for the WB to latch onto. Likewise we can use Fabinho to release Dybala, by dragging play and Stoke to one side, going back to Fabinho who will release the ball to Dybala. As soon as Dybala gets it he will have the WB overlapping him to take away a FB, and Icardi making a run behind to take away the CBs. This will give him that bit of extra time to make something happen.
Other times when we have Stoke pegged right back we will work with a 3-4-3 diamond, pushing the WBs right up into the front line to keep the opposition back line stretched right out on both sides. The wide CBs will stretch out to make it impossible for us to be pressured successfully, all 3 excellent ball players who will be able to break the lines. Having the diamond with our WBs higher up also means that we get our 4 best ball players central, well staggered and well connected, allowing us to play through the opposition. Fabinho the 2nd passer at the base, whilst Ceballos and Tielemans operating in the half space, either dropping deep to help make build up fluid, or pushing higher up, drawing a CM towards them and then taking them out of the game with a good first touch pass or a quick movement behind or to the side.
This leaves Dyballa working on a tangent with Icardi, Icardi running behind and Dybala dropping into AM, defences tend to pick the man threatening the goal which will allow Dybala to drop off and find precious time on the ball, able to then use his long range shooting, his dribbling and his passing to unlock the opposition. Midfield will turn to face him and this will mean they lose their men, allowing Ceballos/Tielemans to make a blind side run.
In the final third we have a lot of fluidity in movement using triangles, so when one drags wide, another pushing beyond and one stays deep, meaning we have open passing lanes between the opponent lines, but also meaning we have an excellent foundation to counterpress. Our aggressive ball-orientated support will also aid the counterpress. We use our overloads and triangles to press the ball as soon as we lose it, 2 pressing the ball from the back and the side and the deeper player shutting the vertical passing lane, with the rest of the attack compacting to this area to squeeze the opponents in. We should have 5 pressing, 5 organising, 2 of the CBs dealing with the striker, ball side wide CB pushed up to help Fabinho defend the ball side space and opposite side WB/CM in position to cut out any diagonals to the free man.
When forced deeper we defend with a 5-3-1-1, giving us full control of the width of the field, with 4 midfielders to keep us in control of the middle too. Back 5 defend zonally, pressing if the ball carrier enters their zone whilst the rest of the defence drops to cover the space in behind. Fabinho patrols the area in front of the defence, helping us to press 2 v 1 centrally, whilst the CMs will go out to help defend the flanks when needed.
Subs:
If Winning: Torreira for Tielemans 70’, brings great energy to stop attacks quickly. Loftus-Cheek and Milikovic-Savic for Ceballos and Dybala 80’, 5-3-1-1 with Loftus-Cheek in behind Icardi.
If Drawing: Carrasco and Bernardeschi for Lindelof and Tielemans 70’, 4-3-3. FBs will invert and get two out and out wingers stretching the game to allow Dybala a free role. Milinkovic-Savic for Ceballos 75’, drive us to a win.
If Losing: Carrasco for R.Pereira 60’, more offensive WB. Mariano and Milinkovic-Savic for Tielemans and Ceballos 70’, 3-2-3-2:
Lindelof Skriniar Umtiti
Fabinho Milinkovic-Savic
Carrasco Dybala Gaya
Mariano Icardi
posted on 17/12/17
Portsmouth v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR (Cup)
Injuries:
Keylor Navas, Kingsley Coman, Ashley Young, Michael Keane
------------------------ Forster -----------------------
D.Alves ----- Boateng –--- Van Dijk ---- Rodriguez
----------------------- Verratti ----------------------
-------------- Fabregas ---–-- B.Silva --------------
---- T.Lemar --------------------------- L.Sane -—
---------------------- A.Morata ---------------------
Subs:
Carevic, Chiellini, Kolarov, Matuidi, Bakayoko, Willian, M.Dembele
Captain: van Dijk
Free Kicks: Fabregas/Rodriguez
Penalties: Morata
Corners: Fabregas
Another big game and we go with a strong lineup. A back four of D.Alves, Boateng, VVD and Rodriguez. A midfield trio of Verratti, Cesc and Bernardo playing in the CM roles. Lemar and Sane occupy the flanks with Morata playing through the middle.
Goalkeeper – Fraser Forster – Dominant keeper with fantastic shot stopping ability. With the aerial challenge likely to be presented by the oppositions attack Forster will dominant the box, come for the ball and commanding on set pieces. We look to start attacks from the back, distributing to the fall backs or if the opposition press we bypass this by taking advantage of the plethora of options in front of him. The primary aim however is to get the ball to our ball playing CM’s as quickly as possible.
Centre Backs – We go with the physically commanding centre halve pairing of Boateng and van Dijk, both of whom offer superb pace and athleticism which will be integral in eliminating the threat posed by the pace and strength of the opposition. If the opposition play with one up top Boateng will mark with VVD offer cover in behind. The aim will be to stick tight to the forward and giving no room to manoeuvre, look to anticipate and cut off the ball into feet with VVD sweeping up if the opposition go long. With two extremely comfortable ball players we are not afraid to bring the ball out from the back. Draw the opposition on to us and exploit the space in behind.
Full Backs – Two solid full backs who's focus today will be providing support to the attack. When the opposition are in possession they drop back, creating a rigid back 4 with the centre halves playing close together leaving no space in or around our box. We force the wingers out wide, make them play down the line and do not allow them to come inside. If the opposition play with inverted wingers this will severely negate their ability to come inside and shoot as they will be forced to go down the line and cross with their weaker foot. Our commanding centre halves will deal with any balls into the box. When in possession the full backs have license to push forward and offer width, although only one will push forward at a time with the other offering cover in defence. They will be tasked with whipping balls in behind the opposition’s defence as we look to utilise the pace offered by our front 3.
Central Midfield – In the centre we utilise Verratti’s who’s tenacity and quality is integral to how we play. He will sit deep as the DM, breaking up the oppositions play and providing the holding force in the middle whilst Silva and Cesc pull the strings ahead of him. If the opposition play with an AM Bakayoko will sit on him, cutting out the supply line to the striker. He will be the deep lying playmaker who alongside Bernardo Silva and Fabregas will aim to pull the strings in the middle of the park, dictating the play with Bernardo in particular having license to push forward and join the attack. We aim to control the game by getting the ball to these three and letting them pick apart the opposition. With three quality forwards ahead of them they will have plenty of options, sliding the ball in behind the opposition defence if they play a high or unpicking the lock should they sit deep and camp inside their own box.
Forwards – We play with a central striker and two pacey wide forwards. Morata is one has fantastic his link up play and is capable of scoring or assisting at any moment. We will look to utilise his aerial presence with balls into the box from our full backs and our wide forward sticking tight, looking for any knockdowns and flicks in behind which will allow them to utilise their pace to devastating effect. Morata’s aerial presence coupled with the distribution of Fabregas will prove a deadly combination. Lemar and Sane will make continuous runs in behind the defence, when our wingbacks push forward they will attack the box, one at the near post, one at the back with Morata in the middle. They will force the oppositions full backs to track them into the box which opens up space for our full backs and Silva to push forward.
When the opposition are in possession – we drop into a 4-5-1 formation, the wingers drop into midfield making it increasingly difficult for the opposition to play through us. We sit deep and do not allow any space in behind, drawing the opposition onto us which will create plenty of space which we will look to exploit with a swift counter attack.
When we are in possession – We will look to dominate possession. Comfortable enough in possession we will look to utilise the creativity of our midfield 3 to retain possession and dictate play. The pace of our forwards will be key as we play a front 3 when in possession and force the opposition on the back foot. Set pieces will be key and an area that we will specifically target. Fabregas’s dead ball delivery is superb and with the aerial ability of Boateng, van Dijk and Morata we will look to cause havoc in the oppositions box at any opportunity. If the free kick is within shooting range then Rodriguez has license to shoot.
Subs 65 mins;
If winning: Fabregas and B.Silva off, Matuidi and Bakayoko on. 4-5-1, Wingers drop back into midfield with Bakayoko, Verratti and Matuidi dominating the physical battle in the middle of the pitch.
80 mins: Lemar off, Chiellini on. We go 5-4-1, Boateng, VVD and Chiellini playing through the middle of a solid back 5, creating a brick wall in front of our goal as we see the game out.
If drawing: Rodriguez and Fabregas off, Chiellini and Willian on, we go to 3-4-3, Chiellini goes to LCB alongside VVD and Boateng in a back 3 with D.Alves and Willian on the flanks behind the front 3 as we push for the winner.
If losing: B.Silva and Lemar off, M.Dembele and Willian on. We go 4-2-4 with Morata and Dembele play as a front two with Sane and Willian playing either side. Plenty of pace will force the opposition back as we go for goals.
posted on 17/12/17
Hull City v BRIGHTON AND HOVE ALBION
Injuries: Lallana, Schneiderlin, Anderson, Cech
---------------------- Trapp
Zabaleta - Sokratis - Evans - Bernat
------ Fellaini - Carvalho - Pastore
Callejon ---- Benzema ---- Richarlison
Subs: Gunn, Holding, Robertson, Krychowiak, Payet, Jese, Falcao
-----------------
A very tough game today, but we can get at this Hull side, I feel we can target them down the middle and create chances for Benzema to finish.
Playing a 4-3-3/4-5-1, Trapp in goal, Zabaleta, Sokratis, Evans and Bernat across the back, Fellaini, Carvalho and Pastore in midfield, Callejon and Richarlison either side of Benzema upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Hull have some world class players in their side although we have some class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front three with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a trio who can dictate the game in Lallana, Krychowiak and Matuidi, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Berardi at RW and Payet at LW both able to use their creativity and get at the Hull defence with Zabaleta and Bernat overlapping. Falcao 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.
Trapp - 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 Benzema.
Sokratis/Evans - Sokratis to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Evans 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 Carvalho 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/Bernat - Both of you to force the Hull wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Callejon/Richarlison 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 Benzema and link with Fellaini/Carvalho/Pastore. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Fellaini/Carvalho/Pastore - Pastore and Fellaini playing the box to box roles, assist Carvalho dealing with the Villa attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Carvalho stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Carvalho to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Pastore to burst forward to join the front four on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others. Fellaini to get forward and provide a physical threat alongside Benzema whenever crosses come into the area.
Callejon/Richarlison - Both playing out wide and both have the creativity and trickery to beat the Hull fullbacks and get crosses in, but both of you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Benzema with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Fellaini/Carvalho/Pastore, and capitalise on the space Benzema's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.
Benzema - you will be expected to occupy the Hull centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Callejon/Richarlison on occasion.
------------------
Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Richarlison off, Krychowiak on. Switch to a flat 4-5-1 with Krychowiak alongside Fellaini and Carvalho in midfield. Callejon to RM and Pastore to LM, look to absorb pressure and hold out for the win.
If losing: Carvalho and Evans off, Payet and Falcao on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, back three of Zabaleta - Sokratis - Bernat, Pastore the playmaker, Callejon - Fellaini - Payet - Richarlison behind a front two of Benzema and Falcao. Push for goals.
posted on 17/12/17
Chelsea v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Injuries: Trippier, J Mario, Ginter, L Moura
-------------------- Ter Stegen
------------ Mustafi - Pepe - Cahill
Juanfran - Jorginho - Gundogan - Hector
-------------- R Sanches - Eriksen
------------------- Aubameyang
Subs: Foderingham, Milner, Wilshere, Xhaka, Bernard, D Costa, Immobile
-----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Chelsea, hopefully our back three will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 3-4-2-1 today, Ter Stegen in goal, Mustafi, Pepe and Cahill in the back three, Juanfran and Hector as wingbacks, Jorginho and Gundogan anchoring the midfield, with Christian Eriksen and Renato Sanches in attacking midfield roles off of Aubameyang upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Chelsea are strong and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Ter Stegen - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Aubameyang.
Mustafi/Pepe/Cahill - Cahill and Mustafi to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Pepe to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Two of you go forward for setpieces.
Juanfran/Hector - Both of you to force the Chelsea wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back five with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Eriksen and Sanches 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 Aubameyang and link with Jorginho/Gundogan. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Jorginho/Gundogan - Gundogan playing the box to box role, assist Jorginho in dealing with the Chelsea attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Jorginho stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Jorginho to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Gundogan to burst forward to join the front three on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others.
Eriksen/Sanches - Playing at AM, both with the trickery to beat the Chelsea fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Aubameyang with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Jorginho/Gundogan, and capitalise on the space Aubameyang's presence will create for you.
Aubameyang - you will be expected to occupy the Chelsea centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Eriksen and Sanches on occasion. Try and link with those two to create opportunities.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Sanches off, Xhaka on. 5-3-1-1, wingbacks to fullback, Xhaka in midfield alongside Gundogan and Jorginho, Eriksen behind Aubameyang.
If drawing: Mustafi and Sanches off, Bernard and Douglas Costa on. Change to 4-2-3-1, Juanfran - Pepe - Cahill - Hector, Gundogan and Jorginho in midfield, D Costa - Eriksen - Bernard behind Aubameyang upfront.
If losing: R Sanches, Mustafi and Cahill off, Immobile, Bernard and Douglas Costa on. 3-1-4-2, Juanfran - Pepe - Hector, Jorginho the playmaker, D Costa - Gundogan - Eriksen - Bernard behind Aubameyang and Immobile upfront. Push for goals.
posted on 18/12/17
comment by Fan Gillhaus 1903 (U3339)
posted 6 days, 15 hours ago
v Arsenal SAT/SUN - Reposted
--------------------- Butland ---------------------
D.Sidibe --- Rudiger --- Vertong --- Kurzawa
-------------------- Wanyama --------------------
------------ M.Kovacic -- Strootman -----------
Sterling --------------------------------- Min-Son
-------------------- Lacazette --------------------
Strakosha, Retsos, Blind, Delph, Lingard, Correa, Gabbiadini
In goal Butland, a super confident keeper, excellent shot stopper, who will close down strikers and reduce there shooting angels, look to spread the play from the back and release our wide men early. Many attacks will start from the goalkeeper.
Sidibe and Kurzawa have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, one always staying back so we will have a back 3, they will bomb down the line supporting the wingers, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Lacazette. They look to play one twos with the attacking midfield 3 which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Rudiger the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Vertonghen alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, bot hstrong defenders, dominate in the air and good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Rudiger and Vertonghen up for corners, fullbacks and Wanyama stay back. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both Vertonghen and Rudiger are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..
Wanyama's primary role is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defence where the opposition’s number 10 will likely to be operating whilst also being aware when the full-backs had pushed forward.Take care of of the No 10/SS is also a main focus, stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat
Strootman is our box-to-box midfielder and has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for team mates, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running they are expected to do. The box-to-box midfielder is more likely to be found on the side of the pitch where the full-back that is less efficient in the attacking third plays to provide balance on both flanks. Kovacic's main responsibility is to create chances for the three attackers in front of him. He will often find himself the furthest forward of the three midfielders and sometimes even in the number 10 role if the correct situation arises. The main requirement of Kovacic is creativity; he needs to be able to play a pass that penetrates the opposition’s defense or dictates the direction of the attack These three should work well together and between them have everything a midfield needs.
Sterling and Son are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos, using Kovacic to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drives passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of himself centrally. Sane will use his tricks and flicks and pace to get him where he wants to be, again using Kovacic to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Lacazette so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.Lacazette will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two/three with the aid of Kovacic and the wingers. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges with hopefully a few crosses coming in he can get up and above defenders for. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Sterling,Kovacic and Son will be making his runs also so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side if he cant go for goal himself. But especially look for Kovacic as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.
Captain - Vertonghen
Penalties - Lacazette
Free kicks - Kovacic
Corners - Wingers
Subs -
Losing -
60 Mins - Correa for Strootman 424 Correa up top with Lacazette
70 Mins - Retsos for Sidibe, he goes into a back 3, Kurzawa to LM and Son up front to the left of Lacazette
80 Mins - Gabbiadini for Son
Drawing -
70 Mins - Correa for Strootman 4231 he goes to No.10
80 Mins - Lingard for Son
Winning -
70 Mins - Delph for Strootman
80 Mins - Correa for Lacazette, Blind for Kurzawa(more defensive)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
posted on 18/12/17
comment by Fan Gillhaus 1903 (U3339)
posted 4 days, 19 hours ago reposted
Wolves on SATURDAY/SUNDAY
----------------------- De Gea -----------------------
Carvajal ---- Sanchez ---- Lenglet ---- A.Sandro
---------- Rakitic --- Paredes --- Draxler ---------
Mbappe ------------- Poulsen ------------- Neymar
Heaton, Henrichs, Tolisso, Pogba, Brandt, Aguero, Jesus
We want to play high tempo football with plenty of possession, no point in long balls with the lack of height up front so lets start from the back and play through them, quick one touch, triangles to get beyond the lines of defence
In goal De Gea a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, shouting instructions to his defenders. Out very quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.
Sanchez and Lenglet at CB, Lenglet picks up th CF, Sanchez sits spare, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, by getting onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it away, look to move it simply to Paredes or our fullabacks as we look to start our attacks from deep.
Carbajal and Sandro at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Both are perfect for this, They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. A lot of focus today is getting the ball wide, so both can attack, hence the three in midfield, they drive down the line in support of the wingers, Sandro gets outside Neymar to allow him to cut inside whereas Carbajal will support Mbappe by either pushing out wide or going inside to allow the winger to drive passed his man, but the two always make themselves available to the wingers.
Our midfield 3 are essential to our style of play, Paredes central sits a little deeper as he looks to pick up the ball from CBs or GK, a quick turn and head up he will look to get us moving with a ball either out wide to Carvajal/Sandro or a little further up to the wingers, if he is getting hounded down then he is physical enough to brush these players off him, having Draxler and Rakitic alongside allows him the time as they shield him, they don't allow anyone to get on top of Paredes which gives him that extra second to get the ball moving. We can move very quickly from defence to attack, so if Wolves are up field and lose it then we can counter very quickly,
like said Draxler and Rakitic are vital in both defensive and attacking mode, they with Paredes shield our back 4 but when we are in control they will push just up ahead of Paredes to support the attack, they will at times receive the ball from the fullbacks so a quick pass back or ahead to the wingers, playing the ball in triangles to get round the opposition quickly will get them away from the Wolves fullbacks/midfielders. I want them to be a dominating midfield 3 in both defence and attack and work as a unit. Draxler will be the one furthest up field to support Poulsen , looking to get him in on goal or indeed have a go himself, Poulsen good in the air so Draxler can get beyond him as he flicks it on or just lays it back for him.
In Mbappe and Neymar we will look to push them back up the pitch by pressing them, as everyone keeps reminding me these two aren't the best tacklers or at tracking back all I want them to do is get into the face of the fullbacks, stop them breaking up the pitch and getting up to support their own forwards. When attacking they will have the support from Carvajal/Sandro as we look to have a real go down the flanks, Mbappe is more of a 'winger' than Neymar so he will drive down the line with pace, beating his man along the way, can use Rakitic and Carvajal as the three look to eventually get the ball into Poulsen or Neymar driving in from the left. Neymar himself does all the fancy stuff, but it does tend to come off, so we allow him to be free today, with Sandro in support and Draxler there making himself available like the right our left will be very dangerous
We want a high tempo game from our midfield 5 if you want to call it that, passing and moving, getting it out wide to where we see our strengths, push them back wards even when they have the ball, they may well have possession but if its in there own half they wont cause us many problems.
Poulsen will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower/Smaller of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Mbappe and Neymar, Draxler, who will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side. But especially look for Neymar as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.As he is good in the air he will win a good amount of headers so will look to flick it on for the runners or knock it down for them comin in
Captain - Rakitic
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Subs
Winnng
70 Mins - Tolisso for Draxler, help out the midfield defensively as they start bring on more forwards and Aguero for Poulsen
80 Mins - Henrichs for Mbappe and go to RM to help out Carvajal
Losing -
65 Mins - Aguero and Jesus for Draxler and Poulsen 424
80 Mins - Sandro to LM, Neymar up top 343, Pogba com eon for Rakitic
Drawing
70 Mins - Tolisso for Rakitic, Aguero for Poulsen freshen things up Aguero will run at everything
80 Mins - Pogba for Draxler
posted on 9/1/18
------------------------- DeGea --------------------------
Carvajal ----- Bonucci ----- Laporte ----- Grimaldo
----------- Tolisso --- Busquets --- Pogba ------------
Mbappe --------------- Aguero --------------- Neymar
Heaton, Sanchez, Rabiot, Draxler, Coman, Jesus, Poulsen
We want to play high tempo football with plenty of possession, no point in long balls with the lack of height up front so lets start from the back and play through them, quick one touch, triangles to get beyond the lines of defence
In goal De Gea a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, shouting instructions to his defenders. Out very quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.
Bonucci and Laporte at CB, Laporte picks up th CF, Bonucci sits spare, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, by getting onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it away, look to move it simply to Busquets or our fullbacks as we look to start our attacks from deep.
Carvajal and Grimaldo at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Both are perfect for this, They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. A lot of focus today is getting the ball wide, so both can attack, hence the three in midfield, they drive down the line in support of the wingers, Grimaldo gets outside Neymar to allow him to cut inside whereas Carvajal will support Mbappe by either pushing out wide or going inside to allow the winger to drive passed his man, but the two always make themselves available to the wingers.
Our midfield 3 are essential to our style of play, Busquets central sits a little deeper as he looks to pick up the ball from CBs or GK, a quick turn and head up he will look to get us moving with a ball either out wide to Carvajal/Grimaldo or a little further up to the wingers, if he is getting hounded down then he is physical enough to brush these players off him, having Pogba and Tolisso alongside allows him the time as they shield him, they don't allow anyone to get on top of Busquets which gives him that extra second to get the ball moving. We can move very quickly from defence to attack, so if Wolves are up field and lose it then we can counter very quickly,
like said Pogba and Tolisso are vital in both defensive and attacking mode, they with Busquets shield our back 4 but when we are in control they will push just up ahead of Busquets to support the attack, they will at times receive the ball from the fullbacks so a quick pass back or ahead to the wingers, playing the ball in triangles to get round the opposition quickly will get them away from the Wolves fullbacks/midfielders. I want them to be a dominating midfield 3 in both defence and attack and work as a unit. Pogba will be the one furthest up field to support Aguero , looking to get him in on goal or indeed have a go himself,
In Mbappe and Neymar we will look to push them back up the pitch by pressing them, as everyone keeps reminding me these two aren't the best tacklers or at tracking back all I want them to do is get into the face of the fullbacks, stop them breaking up the pitch and getting up to support their own forwards. When attacking they will have the support from Carvajal/Grimaldo as we look to have a real go down the flanks, Mbappe is more of a 'winger' than Neymar so he will drive down the line with pace, beating his man along the way, can use Tolisso and Carvajal as the three look to eventually get the ball into Aguero or Neymar driving in from the left. Neymar himself does all the fancy stuff, but it does tend to come off, so we allow him to be free today, with Grimaldo in support and Pogba there making himself available like the right our left will be very dangerous
We want a high tempo game from our midfield 5 if you want to call it that, passing and moving, getting it out wide to where we see our strengths, push them back wards even when they have the ball, they may well have possession but if its in there own half they wont cause us many problems.
Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Mbappe and Neymar & Pogba, who will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side. But especially look for Neymar as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.If he cant go for goal he will look to bring others into the game with short passes or lay offs.
Captain - Bonucci
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Subs
Winnng -
70 Mins - Rabiot for Pogba and he can sit in, will still get forward if needed but sporadically
80 Mins - Poulsen for Aguero will hold it up well and look to bully defenders
85 Mins - Coman for Mbappe on to take the ball on a run and into corners
Losing -
70 Mins - Jesus for Pogba 442
80 Mins - Coman for Mbappe & Poulsen for Aguero, look to get the crosses in for Poulsen to win and get to Jesus
Drawing -
70 Mins - Draxler for Pogba, fresh energy in the centre of pitch and a new attacking threat
75 Mins - Jesus for Aguero, Coman for Mbappe
85 Mins - Draxler to AM
posted on 12/1/18
Hull City v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Injuries:
Blaise Matuidi, Tiemoue Bakayoko, Oguzhan Ozyakup, Nathaniel Chalobah
--------------------- K.Navas ---------------------
D.Alves --- Van Dijk --- Chiellini – Rodriguez
------- B.Silva ---- Verratti ---- Fabregas -----
-- T.Lemar ------ M.Balotelli ------- L.Sane --
Subs:
Forster, J.Boateng, L.Shaw, A.Young, Willian, M.Dembele, A.Morata
Captain: Chiellini
Free Kicks: Rodriguez
Penalties: Balotelli
Corners: Fabregas
Another big game and we go with a strong lineup. A back four of D.Alves, VVD, Chiellini and Rodriguez. A midfield trio of Verratti, Cesc and Bernardo playing in the CM roles. Lemar and Sane occupy the flanks with Balotelli playing through the middle.
Goalkeeper – Keylor Navas – Fantastic shot stopping keeper whose job is to distribute from the back with a plethora of options in front of him. He will look to dominate the box, come for the ball and be commanding on set pieces. We look to start attacks from the back, distributing to the full backs or if the opposition press we bypass this by taking advantage of the plethora of options in front of him. The primary aim however is to get the ball to our creative CM’s as quickly as possible.
Centre Backs – We go with the physically commanding centre halve pairing of van Dijk and Chiellini, with the pace and athleticism of the former combined with the strength and experience of the latter we feel we have the perfect combination to neutralise the threat posed by the opposition. If the opposition play with one up top Chiellini will mark with VVD offering cover in behind. The aim will be to stick tight to the forward and giving no room to manoeuvre, look to anticipate and cut off the ball into feet with VVD sweeping up if the opposition go long. With two extremely strong centre halves we will look to dominate and overpower the centre forward. Both are comfortable on the ball and we are not afraid to bring the ball out from the back. Draw the opposition on to us and exploit the space in behind.
Full Backs – Two solid full backs who's focus today will be providing support to the attack. When the opposition are in possession they drop back, creating a rigid back 4 with the centre halves playing close together leaving no space in or around our box. We force the wingers out wide, make them play down the line and do not allow them to come inside. If the opposition play with inverted wingers this will severely negate their ability to come inside and shoot as they will be forced to go down the line and cross with their weaker foot. Our commanding centre halves will deal with any balls into the box. When in possession the full backs have license to push forward and offer width, although only one will push forward at a time with the other offering cover in defence. They will be tasked with whipping balls in behind the opposition’s defence as we look to utilise the pace offered by our front 3.
Central Midfield – In the centre we utilise Verratti who’s tenacity and quality is integral to how we play. He will play through the middle and will be tasked with breaking up the oppositions play and providing the holding force whilst Silva and Cesc pull the strings beside him. If the opposition play with an AM Verratti will sit on him, cutting out the supply line to the striker. He will be the deep lying playmaker who alongside Bernardo Silva and Fabregas will aim to pull the strings in the middle of the park, dictating the play with Bernardo in particular having license to push forward and join the attack. We aim to control the game by getting the ball to these three and letting them pick apart the opposition. With three quality forwards ahead of them they will have plenty of options, sliding the ball in behind the opposition defence if they play a high or unpicking the lock should they sit deep and camp inside their own box. Retaining possession will be key and we have three of the best technical passers of the ball around and will look to move the opposition out of position and aim to create plenty of scoring opportunities.
Forwards – We play three up top with a central striker and two pacey wide forwards. Though the middle we play Balotelli who is in fine form and will look to continue his scoring streak in today’s game. He offers both pace and power which combined with deadly finishing we expect him to take any goal scoring chances that come his way. We will look to utilise the technical quality of our three central midfield players playing passes in behind the defence to maximise the pace of our front three. Lemar and Sane will make continuous runs in behind the defence, when our fullbacks push forward they will attack the box, one at the near post, one at the back with Balotelli in the middle. They will force the oppositions full backs to track them into the box which opens up space for the likes of Silva and Fabregas to exploit from midfield.
When the opposition are in possession – we drop into a 4-5-1 formation, the wingers drop into midfield making it increasingly difficult for the opposition to play through us. We sit deep and do not allow any space in behind, drawing the opposition onto us which will create plenty of space which we will look to exploit with a swift counter attack.
When we are in possession – We will look to dominate possession. Comfortable enough in possession we will look to utilise the creativity of our midfield 3 to retain possession and dictate play. The pace of our forwards will be key as we play a front 3 when in possession and force the opposition on the back foot. Set pieces will be key and an area that we will specifically target. Rodriguez’s dead ball delivery is superb and with the aerial ability of Chiellini, van Dijk and Balotelli we will look to cause havoc in the oppositions box at any opportunity. If the free kick is within shooting range then Rodriguez has license to shoot.
Subs 65 mins;
If winning: Silva off, Boateng on. We go 5-4-1, Boateng, Chiellini and VVD playing through the middle of a solid back 5, creating a brick wall in front of our goal as we see the game out.
If drawing: Rodriguez, Silva, Balotelli off, Chiellini, Willian and Morata on, we go to 3-4-3, Chiellini goes to LCB alongside VVD and Boateng in a back 3 with D.Alves and Willian on the flanks behind the front 3 as we push for the winner.
If losing: B.Silva and Lemar off, Morata and Willian on. We go 4-2-4 with Morata and Balotelli play as a front two with Sane and Willian playing either side. A deadly combination in attack as we look to force the opposition back as we go for goals.
posted on 12/1/18
Brighton
A very tough game today, but we can get at this Liverpool side, I feel we can target them down the middle and create chances for Falcao to finish.
Playing a 4-3-3/4-5-1, Cech in goal, Cedric, Sokratis, Evans and Bernat across the back, Fellaini, Carvalho and Pastore in midfield, Callejon and Richarlison either side of Falcao upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Liverpool have some world class players in their side although we have some class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front three with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a trio who can dictate the game in Pastore, Fellaini and Carvalho, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Callejon at RW and Richarlisno at LW both able to use their creativity and get at the Liverpool defence with Cedric and Bernat overlapping. Falcao 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.
Cech - 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 Falcao.
Sokratis/Evans - Sokratis to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Evans 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 Carvalho 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.
Cedric/Bernat - Both of you to force the Liverpool 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 Callejon/Richarlison 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 Falcao and link with Fellaini/Carvalho/Pastore. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Fellaini/Carvalho/Pastore - Pastore and Fellaini playing the box to box roles, assist Carvalho dealing with the Liverpool attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Carvalho stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Carvalho to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Pastore to burst forward to join the front four on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others. Fellaini to get forward and provide a physical threat alongside Benzema whenever crosses come into the area.
Callejon/Richarlison - Both playing out wide and both have the creativity and trickery to beat the Hull fullbacks and get crosses in, but both of you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Falcao with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Fellaini/Carvalho/Pastore, and capitalise on the space Falcao's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.
Falcao - you will be expected to occupy the Liverpool centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Callejon/Richarlison on occasion.
------------------
Subs
If Winning
70 Mins - Krychowiak for Fellaini, more energy and defensive cover in the centre
80 Mins - Walcott for Falcao - Use his pace and energy to run down players in the final third
Drawing -
70 Mins - Mkhitaryan for Pastore - see if he can unlock the Liverpool defence
80 Mins - Walcott for Callejon - adds some pace v tiring defenders
82 Mins - A.Diakhaby for Falcao - a new presence up top
Losing -
70 Mins - Mkhitaryan, Krychowiak and Walcott for Fellaini, Pastore and Callejon 4231 with Mkhit in his favoured No.10 role, Krychowiak will try and get the front four moving into space
posted on 12/1/18
Should have maybe posted the team with it
Brighton XI to go with tactics above
---------------------- Cech ----------------------
Cedric ---- Sokratis ---- J.Evans ---- Bernat
-------- Fellaini - Carvalho - Pastore --------
J.Callejon -------- Falcao ------- Richarlison
Trapp, Glik, Krychowiak, Mkhitaryan, Walcott, Brekalo, A.Diakhaby
posted on 12/1/18
---------------------Buffon
Clyne---Rudiger---Verthongen---Blind
-------------------Wanyama
---------Strootman------Parejo
Sterling-----------------------------Son
------------------Lacazette
Subs
Butland, Kurzawa, Sidibe, Bender, Gray, Cuadrado, Sanabria
Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control of the situation, he and the defence have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance being conceded When he has the ball he will look to offload quickly in the direction of the front 3 to get those quick counters started.
Verthongen is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counter attacks, Both CB"s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid sliding tackles unless necessary instead looking to use our experience to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space with the occasional long ball to the front 3 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.
For the full backs today the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly and launching an attack of our own. Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who they go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 3 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift 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 Lacazette, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece due to the ability of our set piece takers. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.
When Lacazette is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead of the defender and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.
Set Pieces
Corners - Parejo takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Lacazette 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, Son and Sterling flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Wanyama looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Strooty takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, as well as occasionally providing the short option to try and draw 2 defenders out of the box.
Free Kicks - Parejo takes Direct FK's
For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners
Penalties - Lacazette is the designated taker.
Subs
If Winning
70 mins - Cuadrado for Son - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
82 + 86 Mins - Vecino for Parejo and Gray for Sterling - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Kurzawa for Blind - Add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
67 Mins - Cuadrado and Kurzawa for Wanyama and Clyne - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.
posted on 13/1/18
4-3-3 Total Football
At home and with a strong defence, we take the game to Everton. A defence capable of playing out from the back with an energetic midfield with Koke and Asensio creating for a fluid front three. Ronaldo on the right, but he and Hazard just play where they want really.
High tempo football played at pace. Seamless interchanging of positions in attack, and relentless pressing in our own half when defending.
We look to play our usual game and take the game to Everton, passing out from the back and with an energetic midfield trio. Find space in between the opposition lines. Knock the ball about the opposition, tiring them out, and allowing us to push players forward into attack. Isolate their attacking players.
Both fbs bomb forward , providing our wingers creative freedom in attack, let them find space. The fbs offer width, allowing our attackers to support each other and overload the opposition cbs. Fbs and midfielders both look to get balls into the box, use Costa and Ronaldo's strength.
As soon as we get the ball to our midfield, we look to move the ball quickly, quick passing and moving.
Kante the dm reading the play looking to win the ball back, Koke offers another strong defensive player next to him with Asensio's energy also important for pressing. Get Koke and Asensio on the ball and looking to play neat one twos in between the lines to open up the opposition using the pace of our attacking trio.
--------------------- Neuer
Azpilicueta - Ramos - Otamendi - Marcelo
-------------------- Kante
---------------- Koke --- Asensio
-- Ronaldo ------------------------- E.Hazard -
------------------- D.Costa
Subs. Schmeichel, Odriozola, E.Can, Malcom, Herrera, Vitolo, Guedes
Defence
We have a quick defence and energy and pace in midfield to stop quick breaks.
We defend in a 4-4-2 formation. Hazard drops to LM. Asensio RM. Allow Costa and Ronaldo the freedom of staying further forward. Giving us a great out ball and two players than can hold the ball up, and break on their own if need be.
Control the opposition by pressing the space with a narrow, compact rigid defensive unit, only allowing them to play in areas we want them to. When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Looking to stop any attacks before they begin.
Look to leave no space for them in between the lines, make it difficult for them to create, if they beat a man, they'll run into another. The wide midfielders will track any forward runs made by their fbs/wbs, and Kante presses the space in front of our cbs, sweeping up danger in front of the defence when it gets through, Koke pressing the ball.
In this tight formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Kante will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, getting across to cut out any danger. The winger opposite play comes inside and picks up the other cm.
As we drop deeper we are really compact. No space in between the lines. Isolate their attackers and force them to take risks.
Attack
We will counter quickly using Costa and Ronaldo who we leave up top when we can. Where it's not we build possession from the back. The defenders will be a bit more patient on the ball taking care with their passing. When the midfielders get the ball they look to move it quickly, playing quick one twos or spreading the play to our wingers/forwards.
Positional structure, in addition to our technical players will be key to our quick passing gameplan going forward. Our approach in build up is to play a flexible asymmetric shape, 2 cb supported by Kante and fbs pushing on that comes close to the first line to provide strong connection in order to transit the ball between the lines.
Koke and Asensio work the ball to space and to the forwards. Koke advances in line with Asensio, who will also have Hazard looking to come deeper to link with him. The two fbs continue to progress offering an option wide.
These players will look to find spaces in between the Everton lines. As we progress to this next line Kante stays in the dm position. Looking to push more players further forward as we progress, the fbs looks to overlap the wingers. Asensio and Koke seeking to link up with the fbs and wingers.
We let our attackers play natural game in the final third. Create chances and score. Simple.
Subs. If winning or drawing fter 65 mins bring on Malcom for D.Costa. Fresh pace and more natural width. Get at Everton as more space appears.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Ander for Asensio. Fresh energy.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Guedes for Ronaldo. Hazard central. Pure pace.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Guedes for Asensio. 4-2-4.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Odriozola for Azpi. More attacking fb.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Malcom and Herrera for Costa and Marcelo. Azpi in back 3. 3-3-4. Malcom and Asensio wide attackers.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Guedes for Herrera. Gund ho, 3-2-3-2. Guedes up top with Ronaldo.
posted on 13/1/18
————————Courtois
Fabinho—Christensen—Umtiti—Gaya
—————Torreira——Zielinski
—Carrasco———Dybala———Sisto
———————Icardi
Subs: Pope, Lindelof, Ceballos, Tielemans, Sabitzer, Philipp, Mariano
Captain: Thibaut Courtois
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala(left/centre)/Fabinho(right)
Corners: Fabinho
Penalties: Fabinho
Our build up will usually take place in a 2-3-2-3/3-2-2-3 today in order to create overloads and passing lanes within the opposition lines of defence. For a clean build up we need numerical superiority so if they press with their forwards Fabinho will tuck in next to the CBs whilst Zielinski and Torreira drop to receive the ball from the defence, with Dybala and Sisto occupying the 10 spaces and Gaya and Carrasco high and wide to stretch the opposition back line. If Brighton drop off then we change this by having Fabinho pushing into CM to create a 3 man CM. This will then allow our CBs to bring the ball forward and play the ball to one of the three CMs, once this happens a Brighton midfielder will have to step out to slow play down and this will open space up for Dybala and Sisto in behind the opposition midfield.
Once we establish dominance of possession and force Brighton to be more compact defensively to stop these gaps opening up our aim is to create overloads to create space in the opposite side, usually this would be through the flanks or the half spaces. To make this happen we need constant movement of players and clever ball circulation, with never more than 3 players in vertical or horizontal alignment, working in triangles or duos, so that when Gaya stretches high and wide, Sisto takes up the half space, when Gaya sits deeper and inverted, Sisto occupies the touchline, when Gaya is infield, Zielinski can move forward into the half space etc.
To create space on the flanks we we build up centrally, inverting Fabinho at all times as he can occupy the right half space and pick his passes from there, including the long diagonal switches to the underloaded flank that’s going to kill Brighton today. By having a 3 man midfield of Fabinho, Torreira and Gaya/Zielinski and then Dybala and Sisto/Zielinski further a head in the half spaces we give Brighton’s midfield a lot more space to cover and they will need their wingers to respond by tucking in, once this happens we will create 1 v 1’s on the flanks, Carrasco vs Bernat, Gaya/Sisto vs Cedric, where we have a clear advantage, we should be looking to get the ball to them as quickly as possible to take advantage, be that from the CMs or the CBs who can completely bypass their midfield with their passing range.
To open spaces in the half space we overload the opposite side so for example if the ball goes to the right half space with Fabinho, Carrasco comes deeper to support, Dybala drops to create a diamond and Torreira and Zielinski also push a cross to force Brighton to commit numbers to defending this area. When we have them pulled across we look to switch the play quickly, be it with a long ball to the opposite flank where Gaya will wait to receive, or a flatter pass into the opposite side half space where Sisto will wait, in space ready to run at the Brighton backline.
To finish off moves we look to get the ball into the box where Icardi will be waiting to pounce, with Dybala and opposite side winger also able to flood the area for the passes.
Off the ball the 2-3-2-3 should allow us a solid structure to press the opposition quickly. The advanced 5 should be doing the pressing when the ball is lost up the field and from goal kicks, focusing on squeezing Brighton into one corner, so if the ball goes to the RCB/RB Icardi and the wide player are the first line press with the opposite winger and the 2 AM’s being the 2nd line press to block of the routes to the other side and vertical lanes, pen them in and force them to go longer, Brighton’s midfield won’t play through us today.
This then allows the remaining block of 5 to form a bowl shape around the opposition attackers, with Fabinho and Zielinski/Gaya covering the half space and flanks, Umtiti marking the CF, and Christensen providing the additional cover be it to his side or in front of him. Torreira covers the central ground, when others put the pressure on he comes to mop up with his great work rate and then use his passing range to restart attacks.
If we are forced to defend deeper we remain in our 4-2-3-1, a solid shape with allows us to cover the length of the field and keep our strength centrally with Torreira and Zielinski able to the dirty work whilst Dybala stops the DM dictating the tempo. Carrasco and Sisto two hard working wingers who will track back as is needed.
Subs:
If Winning: Sabitzer and Philipp for Carrasco 70’ and Sisto, fresh legs to continue with our excellent work rate off the ball, as well as offering a huge threat off it. Lindelof for Dybala 80’, 5-4-1.
If Drawing: Sabitzer and Philipp for Carrasco and Sisto 70’, fresh legs, Philipp someone who can play as another CF when Gaya attacks the flank. Ceballos for Zielinski 75’, look to get on the ball and control the tempo, make things happen.
If Losing: Mariano for Gaya 60’, 3-4-3 with offensive WBs, back 3 will go man to man. Philipp for Sisto 70’. Tielemans for Zielinski 75’, can play as our box to box and use his long range shooting as a weapon.
posted on 13/1/18
Villa vs Stoke
—————————Rico
Almamy——Zouma--—Diop——Jorge
—Soler——Diawara—Jankto—Oyarzabal
——————Schick——B.Keita
Subs: Dragowski, Wober, Laimer, Barella, Lo Celso, Bertrand Traore, Saint-Maximin
Captain: Issa Diop
Corners: Carlos Soler
Free Kicks: Jakub Jankto
Penalties: Balde Keita
We expect a very attack minded Villa side so we are going to be patient, frustrate them and wait for the chance to attack in behind. We expect them to want to play out from the back, we will allow their CBs possession of the ball and instead focus on defending their attackers. Our aim is to force them wider as this is where they will be least dangerous. Schick and B.Keita as the first line of defence today will take up dealing with the deep CMs, stay touch tight to them off the ball so that they cannot be effective in build up. That allows us to then get 8 players, two narrow banks of 4 to cover the rest of the space, making the centre of the field massively congested. Force them to try and build up wide and then shuffle across to use our same structure but in the wide areas, using the touchline as an extra weapon to press them.
Our midfield four will create a narrow zonal line, Soler and Oyarzabal occupying half spaces and Diawara and Jankto the central lanes. The back four will also be narrow and compact to the the midfield line to keep everything very tight. Each player then will have their zone, when the ball enters this zone, particularly the midfield line, they will press the ball carrier whilst the other 3 drops behind the ball so we can put pressure on but not lose ur shape, when one midfielder steps out to press the ball side CF will come to press from behind. The combination of 3 compact lines and zonal pressure should force Villa to use the WBs more often, once this happens we can go 2 v 1 with wide man and FB, wide man pressing and FB behind to back him up. Keita will drop back in and create a staggered diamond with the remaining 3 midfielders, Keita at the tip moving towards ball side and Diawara at the base, not allowing gaps between the lines. Far side CM will step up to block any switches of play and the ball side CM will step across to block the route central. Any pass into this diamond and it narrows very quickly, all four players working hard to shut the ball carried and his passing lanes down. Keep the opposition down the flank, if it goes forward, wide man and FB press harder, if it goes backwards, wide man and Keita press harder, working 2 vs 1. Back four should remain in their line at all times, when the ball side FB has to step out, the rest shuffle across. In Diop and Zouma we have the power and pace to deal with any type of CF.
Going forward we have a great amount of pace and we should be looking to target Villa down the sides of their defence. Our two side midfielders love to burst forward and when we win the ball wide the first thing that needs to happen is that we take advantage of the 2 v 1 we have out wide, for example on the left, if Jorge wins it, Oyarzabal must make a run for him, if Oarzabal wins it, Jorge must overlap into the space behind. Two strikers up front and both love to play on the counter so when the ball is won they must be off, most of the time we want Keita moving out to the left when we win it back and Schick out to the right, for quick balls forward to them up against the wide CBs, isolate them one v one and do them for pace and power. This will be particularly effective with Keita against their RCB, he’ll be dragged into an unfamiliar RB role and Keita flourishes with space to run at a player on the back foot. When we win it centrally then the first look must be for runners into wide areas. If its the wide men/FBs bringing it forward then we want both strikers in the middle, working on a tandem, usually Schick coming to support play and drag defenders out and Keita running behind, but at times Schick can play off of Keita. Second option if we can’t attack the wide spaces is to use Balde Keita’s dribbling through the middle, he has the beating of the Villa CMs for pace and skill and if he can take them out of the game it will force the CBs and WBs to leave their position and leave space for blind side runs for supporting players. Third option is longer balls into Schick, one touch lay offs to Keita to burst beyond him, or lay offs into wider areas. He can also look to position himself for diagonal switches of play, attacking the free side of the pitch. CMs will look to stay deeper so we can’t get caught out in turnovers, instead using their range of passing to hurt Villa from deep.
Subs:
If Winning: Wober for Balde Keita 70’, 5-4-1, control the length of the pitch with a back 5 and keep the middle compact. Barella for Oyarzabal 75’, we can even use a diamond midfield at times to close down space. Laimer for Jankto 80’.
If Drawing: Bertrand Traore for Schick 70’, more speed, look to get in behind and down the sides. Lo Celso for Oyarzabal, Barella for Jankto 75’, fresh legs in midfield to keep competing.
If Losing: Change to a 3-5-2 with Almamy CB, Oyarzabal RWB, Jorge LWB. Lo Celso for Jankto 65’, add more creativity behind the strikers with Soler and Lo Celso looking to move about the midfield. Traore for Schick 75’, fresh pace. Saint Maximin for Jorge 80’.
posted on 13/1/18
BRUM vs Portsmouth
-------------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Bellerin------------Gomez---------------Bailly-------------Alonso
---------------------------------------Matic-------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inaki---------------------------------------------------------------------Perisic
-----------------------------------------Alli-------------------------------------------
------------------------Gomez--------------Rashford--------------------------
Subs - Batalla, Ake, Allan, Winks, Lingard, Calvert Lewin, Rodrigo
CAPTAIN - MATIC
CK'S - PERISIC
FK'S - PERISIC
PENALTIES - PERISIC
Welcome back lads! Made some signings over the winter break let's give them a chance to prove themselves. Going for a 41212 formation. The DM will fully focus on defensive duties so the attacking players have the freedom to do their stuff.
I want us to play high up and to not give the Portsmouth attackers any room to breath. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. When we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
Lafont a quality young keeper. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Gomez and Bailly bring a whole lot of pace to the defence. They are probably 2 of the quickest CB's around and will be able to handle any pacy players coming at them. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Matic will be covering for them when they go attacking.
Defence Mid
Matic
Matic will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or play a through ball from deep to our strikers.
Wingers
Inaki + Perisic
Inaki and Perisic are two quick wingers but with a sense of physicality to them. They are tall and have to ability to use their strength to shrug off oppo defenders. Inaki will look to play on the outside and get to the byline and whip in some crosses. Perisic likewise although he is one of the most ambidextrous footed players in the world and is comfortable on using both his feet, so I want him to mix things up and cut in from time to time and make space for a shot. I want you both to help track back and help the full backs when they are in our half of the pitch.
Attack Mid
Dele Alli
Dele will look to have a free role in midfield. I want him to make different types of runs from midfield so it is harder for the oppo to mark you. Make diagonal runs and drift into the wings etc. You will be the link between the midfield and the attack. Play quick passes and play 1 2's to find space and create a chance to shoot.
Strikers
Gomez + Rashford
Gomez will be the target man striker who will look to hold the ball up and bring others around him into the game. When we whip in crosses he will be the main target, as he is a threat in the air. Rashford will look to use his pace and play off the oppo defenders shoulders and try and outpace them. With 2 different types of strikers, it will be a mare for the oppo to mark them.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Rodrigo for Gomez. Also bring on Lingard for Inaki and Allan for Matic. Play a high line and try and get a goal.
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Rashford and put on Maguire in CB and play 5atb ultra defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives. Allan on for Perisic aswell and Lingard on for Inaki to bring some much needed freshness in midfield.
-------------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Bellerin--------Gomez------Maguire---------Bailly---------Alonso
-----------------------------Allan------------Matic-------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Lingard---------------------------Alli--------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------Gomez---------------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Gomez off for Rodrigo
Alli off for Lingard
Inaki off for Calvert Lewin
Fresh legs to bring on.
posted on 13/1/18
--------------------------Horn
Weiser----F. de Jong-------Baumgartl------Max
--------------Ascacíbar-------Dahoud
-------Mahrez---------Ziyech----------Forsberg
----------------------Ibrahimovic
Subs: Pollersbeck, Plattenhardt, Tousart, Aouar, Ben Arfa, Younes, Selke
Our defensive unit consists of Frenkie de Jong and Timo Baumgartl paired up at centre-back, Mitchell Weiser at right-back and Philipp Max at left-back, with Frenkie de Jong and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Ascacíbar and Dahoud we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Dahoud can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as de Jong can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Dahoud’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Dahoud running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Santiago Ascacíbar.
A holding midfielder through and through, de Jong is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Ascacíbar such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Riyad Mahrez, Hakim Ziyech and Emil Forsberg as our band of three attacking midfielders with Zlatan Ibrahimovic as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Ascacíbar or Dahoud, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Weiser and Max can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Ascacíbar and Dahoud can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Riyad Mahrez and Emil Forsberg, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Hakim Ziyech our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Ziyech is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer who will look to play Mahrez, Forsberg or Ibrahimovic in via fast passing combinations.
Ibrahimovic is a formidable centre forward and he possesses the technical qualities and versatility to shine in this game. He’ll be physically imposing and not only will he be a threat in the air, but he can also score via great volleys. We’ll look towards his wonderful finishing and passing ability and he’ll also display good positioning and teamwork, and won’t be afraid to help his team defend.
Subs on 80 mins
Aouar on for Ziyech and Tousart on for Ascacíbar
posted on 13/1/18
NEWCASTLE
-----------------------Lloris
-----Hummels-----Sule-----Marquinhos
Florenzi-----Pjanic------Nainggolan-------Rose
-------Salah-------Suarez---------Mane
Subs
Keita, Ozil, Casemiro, N’Zonzi, Danilo (city), Suso, Kane
Hummels is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, the centre backs will always stay back to stop counter attacks, The CB"s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid sliding tackles unless necessary instead looking to use our experience to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space with the occasional long ball to the front 3 or the wing backs thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.
For the wing backs today the objective is to provide the width for the team and keep the oppositon stretched as much as possible, both still have a defensive mindset so will be getting back into a back 5 if we lose the ball. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.
The focus of the midfield 2 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 3 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Suarez, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece due to the ability of our set piece takers. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.
When Suarez is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead of the defender and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul, his unpredictable style when on the ball will look to cause a bit of doubt in the minds of the defenders as he has a knack of bouncing it off peoples shins and it landing in a perfect position for himself to create a chance for himself or others. He also has a knack of being the first to react to get onto rebounds or parries and taking those one touch chances.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.
Set Pieces
Corners - Pjanic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the WB's stay back to prevent counters, 2 of the CB's and Suarez work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball.
Free Kicks - Pjanic takes Direct FK's
For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners
Penalties - Suarez is the designated taker.
Subs
If Winning
70 mins - Danilo for Rose - The wing backs stay back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
82 + 86 Mins - Casemiro for Nainggolan and Suso for Mane - Actively time waste and Mourinho the opposition.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Ozil for Nainggolan - Add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
67 Mins - Ozil and Kane for Nainggolan and Rose - The wings backs act as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.
posted on 13/1/18
-------------------------- Ederson
------- Alderwer'd ------ Javi.M ----- Varane
K.Walker -- Fernandinho ----- A.Vidal ------ Ghoulam
---------------- De Bruyne ----- A.Sanchez
------------------------ Timo Werner
Subs: Zappacosta, Tah, Kolasinac, Khedira, D.Silva, A.Martial, Mertens
One or two strong additions made to the side to ensure we remain highly competitive in the second half of the season and push for those top spots.
We look to play a high tempo possession game today, looking to stretch Birmingham out wide with our quick FB's and opening up the game within the central areas so our influential attackers can dictate.
Pass & move and quick link up play, switching the play on a regular basis, creating space for our players in mf & attacking zones and making Birmingham chase the ball to create holes in their backline.
Initially playing out from the back, Ederson's distribution is one of the best in the game. As we move the ball into midfield, Javi Martinez will move into more of a pivot role alongside Fernandinho to allow Vidal to burst forward, as he has been very productive this season.
Werner plays off the shoulder, perfect CF to run the channels and keep the opposition CB's on their feet, drag the CB's wide and create space for the likes of De Bruyne and Sanchez to operate in higher up field. Fox in and around the box looking to pounce on anything loose.
Defensively, we revert to a compact 3-5-2. De Bruyne moves into AM looking to form a midfield trio and man-mark their most influential CM. A.Sanchez plays alongside Werner pressing intensively from the front.
3-4-3- Possession based:
It starts from the back. Ederson is very able with his hands and feet and should look to find our players in space.
The CB trio are excellent on the ball, very good passing success rates and should look to move the ball into mf quickly. At times collecting short from Ederson and getting their heads up, looking for movement from the attackers and attempting diagonal or long balls into feet, using Werner and co as target men to bypass their mf.
Alder & Varane should shift slightly wider when on the offense allowing our wing-backs to push up in a bank of 4 in mf.
Fernandinho and Vidal, a midfield pair that will provide plenty of energy and will work their socks off for the side to allow others around them to express themselves. They should look to stamp their authority with their work rate and power looking to take a grip on mf and shielding our defence, oppressing the opposition midfielders and covering every blade of grass out there.
When attacking, Fernandinho sits just infront of the defence and makes himself available for a pass back. A passing outlet if we are being vigorously pressed whilst also allowing us to create space when working the ball around in triangles, also prevent counter attacks.
De Bruyne and Alexis have free roles in attack, at times going wider to support the WG-backs. Sanchez partnering Werner up top with De Bruyne in behind, or them sitting and dictating/driving from deep to open up the game ahead.
Generally they will look to play inbetween the lines, roaming in the oppositions half and and looking to act as the link between midfield and attack. Picking up pockets of space and using their awareness to dictate the play, never afraid to play a key pass in behind to unlock their defence or drive from deep.
Flanks will be key as we look to expose them in wide areas and create space in midfield.
Two quick & powerful WG-backs in Walker and Ghoulam, need to hug the touchline and provide the width allowing us to stretch the opposition. Always on the move so we can get them in behind and use them as outlets going forward when picking a pass.
Very possession orientated, comfortable playing quick 1-2's and accelerating into space, overlapping often and getting early deliveries into the box for our striker/s to attack.
When Birmingham are in possession we will initially look to press from front with our two strikers (Werner & A.Sanchez) and then drop off deeper with men behind the ball if they bypass with a strong block of 5 in midfield.
Don’t allow them to play out from the back and hurry their passes. Our attackers form a duo looking to cut avenues into midfield as one goes to press the ball, force them into tight spots with their backs to goal towards the touchline.
The reason we want our front two to press is to force Birmingham to play long and concede possession, we feel they lack any sort of aerial presence in the side so are less likely to win contested duels.
If they advance we then form a rigid structure looking to press the space and dropping off with men behind the ball, only allowing them to play where we want them too, stifle the midfield and stop them from picking their passes into an attacker, Vidal man-man their AM, looking to harass him and using his physical prowess to really put him off his game, Fernandinho and De Bruyne cutting off passing lanes.
Essentially a 3-5-2, 5 in mf working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wing-backs then drop off to mark the oppositions wingers and help our CB's to prevent any space being left in behind.
Key is leaving no gaps or space to get in behind, working as a staunch unit so their quick attackers have to come deeper to get involved making their first point of contact with the ball much deeper than they anticipated and notably further away from our final third.
When we have them deep we have more to work with, we can plug at them and tactically foul in areas that will prevent them from playing with any flow, breaking up the game.
If we manage to win the ball we must immediately look to counter and hit the opposition hard. Walker & Ghoulam can come up to support the play and provide the width. The front 3 burst forward.
Subs:
IF WINNING: 66th minute – (3-4-3)
- Khedira > Vidal
- Martial > A.Sanchez
- D.Silva > De Bruyne (75th minute)
Compact 3-4-3, Khedira fresh legs in mf, Martial replaces Sanchez and looks to get in behind with his pace and movement. D.Silva plays a similar role to KDB.
IF DRAW: 70th minute – (3-5-2)
- D.Silva > Vidal
- Mertens > Werner
- Khedira > Fernandinho (75th min)
Get D.Silva on looking to provide that spark and get us going forward. Mertens great link-up play and should provide a different option up front. Khedira replaces Fernandinho as CDM.
IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- Mertens > Varane
- Martial > Vidal
- D.Silva > De Bruyne
4-4-2, direct. long balls into the box and constantly looking for the two strikers.
Flood forward and look for an equalizer/winner.
C - Javi.M
FK's - De Bruyne
Corners - De Bruyne/A.Sanchez
Pens – T.Werner
posted on 14/1/18
Completely forgot the red
Red Card
Red Card:
In all cases Mane subbed off, if Mane red then no change
If goal keeper, ooopppps
If wing backs, Danilo
If CB, Casemiro and go 4–3-2
If centre mids, Casemiro
If am, Suso
If striker, Kane
posted on 14/1/18
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v Newcastle United
Injuries: Semper, Wilshere, Bernard, Digne
-------------------- Ter Stegen
--------- Mustafi - Koscielny - Cahill
Juanfran - Jorginho - Gundogan - Hector
--------------- Eriksen - Sigurdsson
------------------- Aubameyang
Subs: Foderingham, Pepe, Milner, Xhaka, Musonda, L Moura, Immobile
-----------------
In case of red card, switch from 3-4-2-1 to 3-4-1-1
If Ter Stegen: Sigurdsson off, Foderingham on.
If Mustafi/Koscielny/Cahill, Sigurdsson off, Pepe on.
If Juanfran/Hector, Sigurdsson off, Milner on.
If Jorginho/Gundogan, Sigurdsson off, Xhaka on.
If Eriksen/Sigurdsson, no change.
If Aubameyang, Sigurdsson off, Immobile on.
-----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Newcastle, hopefully our back three will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 3-4-2-1 today, Ter Stegen in goal, Mustafi, Koscielny and Cahill in the back three, Juanfran and Hector as wingbacks, Jorginho and Gundogan anchoring the midfield, with Christian Eriksen and Gylfi Sigurdsson in attacking midfield roles off of Aubameyang upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Newcastle are strong and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Ter Stegen - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Aubameyang.
Mustafi/Koscielny/Cahill - Cahill and Mustafi to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Koscielny to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Two of you go forward for setpieces.
Juanfran/Hector - Both of you to force the Newcastle wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back five with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Eriksen and Sigurdsson 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 Aubameyang and link with Jorginho/Gundogan. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Jorginho/Gundogan - Gundogan playing the box to box role, assist Jorginho in dealing with the Newcastle attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Jorginho stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Jorginho to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Gundogan to burst forward to join the front three on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others.
Eriksen/Sigurdsson - Playing at AM, both with the trickery to beat the Newcastle fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Aubameyang with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Jorginho/Gundogan, and capitalise on the space Aubameyang's presence will create for you.
Aubameyang - you will be expected to occupy the Newcastle centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Eriksen and Sigurdsson on occasion. Try and link with those two to create opportunities.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Sigurdsson off, Xhaka on. 5-3-1-1, wingbacks to fullback, Xhaka in midfield alongside Gundogan and Jorginho, Eriksen behind Aubameyang.
If drawing: Cahill off, Lucas Moura on. Change to 4-2-3-1, Juanfran - Mustafi - Koscielny - Hector, Gundogan and Jorginho in midfield, Lucas - Eriksen - Sigurdsson behind Aubameyang upfront.
If losing: Jorginho, Mustafi and Cahill off, Immobile, Lucas Moura and Musonda on. 3-1-4-2, Juanfran - Pepe - Hector, Gundogan the playmaker, Lucas - Sigurdsson - Eriksen - Musonda behind Aubameyang and Immobile upfront. Push for goals.
posted on 14/1/18
Chelsea v ARSENAL
Injuries: Mandzukic, Cyprien, Nastasic, Amiri
Pickford
Manolas - Kompany - D Llorente
Valencia - M Llorente - Goretzka - Wendell
D Costa - Belotti - James Rod
Subs: Scuffet, Smalling, D Pereira, Pellegrini, Ramsey, El Shaarawy, Aspas
Playing a 3-4-3 today, hoping to get something from this Chelsea side using the wingbacks for width while keeping the middle and our third congested to frustrate the Chelsea attack. Our front three has plenty of skill and ability to cause the Chelsea defence problems on the counter attack.
Pickford, be wary of long range efforts, command your area, look to distribute to the wingbacks and midfield.
Manolas/Kompany/D Llorente, if they play one striker as expected, Kompany man mark him, and Manolas/D Llorente tuck in and meet their wingers cutting in. Watch for runners from midfield. When we have the ball, look for the wingbacks/midfield/wingers.
Valencia/Wendell, in possession, bomb forward, overlap D Costa/James and get crosses in for Belotti, without the ball drop back and form a back five outside Manolas/D Llorente, look to frustrate the Chelsea wingers by doubling up on them and be wary of the Chelsea fullbacks getting forward. Try and drive the Chelsea fullbacks back to prevent them causing us issues defensively.
M Llorente/Goretzka, both in box to box roles, without the ball both of you sit in front of the back five, frustrate their AM/third CM trying to get forward, but when we have the ball take it in turns to get forward and support the front three, look to supply passes to Belotti down the middle.
D Costa/James, both playing wide in a front three, but both in positions where you can cut infield, link together, and create havoc for the Chelsea defence. Look for Valencia/Wendell overlapping and either feed them passes or use the space created from their runs to create opportunities. Try and supply Belotti with as many chances as possible, his finishing means we should score today if you do your jobs.
Belotti, stay on the deepest Chelsea CB, look to spin in behind to receive passes from the wingbacks/midfield/wingers, be it passes from deep, or from wide. Work hard to close down their defender's if they bring the ball out as they aren't the most confident in possession. Shoot on sight.
Substitutions 70 mins
If winning: Costa off, D Pereira on. Change to a 5-3-1-1, with D Pereira in midfield and James off of Belotti. Wingbacks to fullback.
If drawing: D Llorente off, El Shaarawy on. Change to a 4-2-3-1, Valencia - Manolas - Kompany - Wendell, M Llorente - Goretzka, D Costa - James - El Shaarawy behind Belotti upfront.
If losing: Manolas, M Llorente and D Llorente off, El Shaarawy, Aspas and Ramsey on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, Valencia - Kompany - Wendell, Goretzka as the playmaker, D Costa - James - Ramsey - El Shaarawy behind Belotti - Aspas upfront. Push for goals.
posted on 14/1/18
Danilo has been sold
posted on 14/1/18
Swap Danilo sub for Pellegrini
posted on 17/1/18
Brighton v HULL CITY
--------------------------Horn
Pavard-----Baumgartl-------Kempf--------Max
--------------Ascacíbar-------Dahoud
-------Mahrez---------Ziyech----------Forsberg
----------------------Ibrahimovic
Subs: Pollersbeck, Stark, Plattenhardt, Tousart, Ben Arfa, Younes, Selke
Our defensive unit consists of Timo Baumgartl and Marc-Oliver Kempf paired up at centre-back, Benjamin Pavardat right-back and Philipp Max at left-back, with Santiago Ascacíbar and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Ascacíbar and Dahoud we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Dahoud can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Ascacíbar can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Dahoud’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Dahoud running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Santiago Ascacíbar.
A holding midfielder through and through, Ascacíbar is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Ascacíbar such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Riyad Mahrez, Hakim Ziyech and Emil Forsberg as our band of three attacking midfielders with Zlatan Ibrahimovic as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Ascacíbar or Dahoud, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Pavard and Max can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Ascacíbar and Dahoud can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Riyad Mahrez and Emil Forsberg, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Hakim Ziyech our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Ziyech is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer who will look to play Mahrez, Forsberg or Ibrahimovic in via fast passing combinations.
Ibrahimovic is a formidable centre forward and he possesses the technical qualities and versatility to shine in this game. He’ll be physically imposing and not only will he be a threat in the air, but he can also score via great volleys. We’ll look towards his wonderful finishing and passing ability and he’ll also display good positioning and teamwork, and won’t be afraid to help his team defend.
Subs on 80 mins
Tousart on for Ascacíbar and Younes on for Forsberg
posted on 18/1/18
---------------------- De Gea ----------------------
Henrichs --- Bonucci --- Sanchez --- A.Sandro
------- Tolisso ---- Busquets ---- Pogba --------
Mbappe ------------ Aguero ------------ Neymar
Heaton, Laporte, Rabiot, Bailey, Draxler, Poulsen, Jesus
We want to play high tempo football with plenty of possession, no point in long balls with the lack of height up front so lets start from the back and play through them, quick one touch, triangles to get beyond the lines of defence
In goal De Gea a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, shouting instructions to his defenders. Out very quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.
Bonucci and Sanchez at CB, Sanchez picks up th CF, Bonucci sits spare, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, by getting onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it away, look to move it simply to Busquets or our fullbacks as we look to start our attacks from deep. Both go up for corners, Tolisso and the fullbacks stay back.Henrichs and Sandro at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Both are perfect for this, They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. A lot of focus today is getting the ball wide, so both can attack, hence the three in midfield, they drive down the line in support of the wingers, Sandro gets outside Neymar to allow him to cut inside whereas Henrichs will support Mbappe by either pushing out wide or going inside to allow the winger to drive passed his man, but the two always make themselves available to the wingers.
Our midfield 3 are essential to our style of play, Busquets central sits a little deeper as he looks to pick up the ball from CBs or GK, a quick turn and head up he will look to get us moving with a ball either out wide to Henrichs and Sandro or a little further up to the wingers, if he is getting hounded down then he is physical enough to brush these players off him, having Pogba and Tolisso alongside allows him the time as they shield him, they don't allow anyone to get on top of Busquets which gives him that extra second to get the ball moving. We can move very quickly from defence to attack, so if Everton are up field and lose it then we can counter very quickly, like said Pogba and Tolisso are vital in both defensive and attacking mode, they with Busquets shield our back 4 but when we are in control they will push just up ahead of Busquets to support the attack, they will at times receive the ball from the fullbacks so a quick pass back or ahead to the wingers, playing the ball in triangles to get round the opposition quickly will get them away from the Everton fullbacks/midfielders. I want them to be a dominating midfield 3 in both defence and attack and work as a unit. Pogba will be the one furthest up field to support Aguero , looking to get him in on goal or indeed have a go himself,
In Mbappe and Neymar we will look to push them back up the pitch by pressing them, as everyone keeps reminding me these two aren't the best tacklers or at tracking back all I want them to do is get into the face of the fullbacks, stop them breaking up the pitch and getting up to support their own forwards. When attacking they will have the support from Sandro/Henrichs as we look to have a real go down the flanks, Mbappe is more of a 'winger' than Neymar so he will drive down the line with pace, beating his man along the way, can use Tolisso and Henrichs as the three look to eventually get the ball into Aguero or Neymar driving in from the left. Neymar himself does all the fancy stuff, but it does tend to come off, so we allow him to be free today, with Sandro in support and Pogba there making himself available like the right our left will be very dangerous
We want a high tempo game from our midfield 5 if you want to call it that, passing and moving, getting it out wide to where we see our strengths, push them back wards even when they have the ball, they may well have possession but if its in there own half they wont cause us many problems.
Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Mbappe and Neymar & Pogba, who will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side. But especially look for Neymar as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.If he cant go for goal he will look to bring others into the game with short passes or lay offs.
Captain - Bonucci
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Subs
Winning -
70 Mins - Rabiot for Pogba, sit in to provide defensive cover as Everton bring on attackers
70 Mins - Draxler for Neymar, Bailey for Mbappe go to a flat midfield 5 and those two help defensively
Losing -
70 Mins - Bailey for Mbappe, fresh legs and pace down the right hand side and Jesus for Tolisso go 442
80 Mins - Poulsen for Sandro, he is a vocal point up top to aim for Henrichs into a back 3 at LCB 343
Drawing -
70 Mins - Bailey for Mbappe, Jesus for Tolisso, Poulsen for Aguero 4231 with Jesus just off Poulsen as he looks for knock downs from the big CF
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