League Cup Semi Final 1st leg
Newcastle United v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

Injuries: Mustafi, Kenedy, Sigurdsson, Boga

-------------------- K Navas
------- Savic - Mascherano - Koscielny
Juanfran - Jorginho - Gundogan - Hector
--------------Willian ------- Eriksen
----------------- Aubameyang

Subs: Begovic, Cahill, Trippier, Drinkwater, R Sanches, F Anderson, Immobile

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

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.

Away goals could be vital in this tie so I want us to get at them, willing to get at Newcastle and their defence, make sure we create chances and ideally take some away goals back to the Black Country.

We are playing a 3-4-2-1 today, Keylor Navas in goal, Savic, Mascherano and Koscielny in the back three, Juanfran and Hector as wingbacks, Jorginho and Gundogan anchoring the midfield, with Willian and Eriksen 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.

Navas - 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.

Savic/Mascherano/Koscielny - Savic and Koscielny to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Mascherano 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 Willian and Eriksen 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.

Willian/Eriksen - 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 Willian and Eriksen on occasion. Try and link with those two to create opportunities.

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

Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Willian off, Drinkwater on. 5-3-1-1, wingbacks to fullback, Drinkwater in midfield alongside Gundogan and Jorginho, Eriksen behind Aubameyang.

If drawing: Willian off, Immobile on. Change to 3-4-1-2, Eriksen behind Aubameyang and Immobile, push for the winner.

If losing: Mascherano and Koscielny off, F Anderson and Immobile on. 3-1-4-2, Juanfran - Savic - Hector, Jorginho the playmaker, F Anderson - Gundogan - Eriksen - Willian behind Aubameyang and Immobile upfront. Push for goals.

———-———————Svilar
R.Pereira—-Christensen—Umtiti——Gaya
———————Torreira——Tielemans
Sabizter——————Savic—————Lemar
———————————Philipp

Subs: Pope, Zagadou, Maier, Ceballos, Bernardeschi, Abraham, Brandt


Captain: Samuel Umtiti
Free Kicks: Federico Bernardeschi/Youri Tielemans
Penalties: Thomas Lemar
Corners: Youri Tielemans

First leg at home so a win is key here. Today’s approach is to put the opposition backline under pressure when they are building, especially from goal kicks as we know they won’t want to go long, test the CBs ability to create. When high pressing we set up with a narrow 4-4-2 designed to give their CBs limited passing options, particularly focusing on closing the route to the midfield with Savic and Philipp using their work rate to cover the DM and close off the vertical passing lane for the ball carrying CB. The midfield four in this case will be very narrow, we want our CMs man to man with their more advanced CMs, follow them if they drop deeper, stick tight and keep them under pressure so they aren’t deemed as good passing options, whilst our wingers tuck in, helping to condense space and add to the mount of pressure the opposition feel in build up, essentially these two are free players to squeeze space, particularly if one of our CMs has to step forward and follow his man, they can drop in.

Force them in to building through the FBs, and as soon as they make this type of move, overload the flank to box them in and force hopeful balls forward by having the winger on that side immediately press wide and force the FB towards the touchline with our FB pushing up to close the vertical passing lane and Savic and Philipp coming across to stop play being moved back to the centre, with the ball side CM also helping to insure theres no route to the middle.

If this press is beaten or we are defending deeper then the 4-4-2 remains compact but drops to defend our third. Pressure as a unit, narrow and compact to defend our box and force attacks to go wide. Savic and Philipp covering the deepest midfield at all times to stop them recycling possession. If it goes wide, ball side winger drops right back when opposition winger cuts inside so our FBs can narrow right up to the CBs. Likewise centrally when the ball side CM goes to press, Savic will drop in to cover that space and opposite side winger will tuck in, we want to put the pressure on as a unit, create a really solid block in the middle and frustrate the opposition.

The back four remains narrow to each other, no gaps between FBs and CBs, we know that their wingers are tricky and want to exploit these positions, keep tight to them, make sure we are always close so if we are beaten we can be backed up immediately. Stand up strong to them and look to get a toe in, force the ball back towards midfield. The opposition have fast, nimble forwards but our CBs today are well matched to this task.

Going forward we look to create overloads in the opposition’s formation. The Cbs will support this style, with Umtiti and Christensen both able to bring the ball out of defence and fire laser passes between the lines. This will serve to draw the opposition on to them and create a spare man in midfield.

Torreira will look to be disciplined today, use his high energy to win the ball back and start attacks. In build up look to receive from the CBs, dropping between them at times to allow the two CBs to really split wide and open the pitch up. Tielemans will have freedom to join attacks, allowing us to transition to a 4-3-3 in possession, particularly looking to move out towards the left and draw their CMs out of the middle, or move into a 10 role with Savic and look to play in between the lines.

When we get into the final third overloads out wide will become pivotal, particularly down our left side. Savic will look to drift out towards the half spaces in order to create triangles out wide. With their wingers not known for their tracking back, we can really hurt Chelsea’s FBs today. When Savic drifts wide, the opposite winger tucks in and takes up the 10 space to maintain our central presence, and to stop their DMs being quick to leave the middle ground open, this will either create space for Savic or the tucked in winger. Down the left we want to get Gaya, Tielemans, Lemar and Savic working together to overload the flank, maintaining a strong diamond structure that allows us to win the ball back if we lose it. On the opposite side the R.Pereira will push right up, stop their opposite side FB following Sabitzer when he comes infield, gives us the option of crosses from the left, switches to the right, and quick transitions infield.

The trio behind Philipp today will be key. Savic back in his favoured 10 role will be looking to get involved everywhere, make his presence felt when defending, building attacks and finishing attacks. He will be a key focal point for overloads as his strength means that we can get balls into him from deeper and he will hold the ball up and allow players to run off of him, whilst from crosses he is able to get in the box as a second striker and bully their CBs. Lemar will be looking to use his pace to run at the opposition, when we create overloads down the left, the aim is to free up Lemar to make runs behind the defence, use his pace. Sabizter will be an inverted winger for the most part, drift into the free 10 space and occupy their DM.

Philipp is more of a false 9 today, he has a role to play in build up, drop deeper to help link play and make the opposition defence feel confident stopping up, before looking to ushers pace to get in behind with quick one two’s. When we build out wide we expect one of two things from Philipp, either he comes to support the overload, by dropping deeper to help play it should draw a CB and open extra space for players to run between defenders, or he goes to the free side and lets the CBs forget about him, looking to make his elusive third man runs to get on the end of through balls and crosses.

Subs:

If Winning: Abraham for Philipp 70’, more of a target up front. Zagadou and Maier for Lemar and Tielemans 75’, 3-4-1-1 with Sabitzer in behind Abraham.

If Drawing: Bernardeschi for Sabitzer 70’, fresh legs in an important position to press and create. Ceballos for Tielemans 75’, fresh creativity. Abraham for Philipp 80’, poacher to come on, get in the box and score a goal.

If Losing: Abraham for Tielemans 65’, Savic into CM and Abraham up front to take the chances that we create. Brandt and Bernardeschi for R.Pereira and Philipp 75’, Bernardeschi to RB and Brandt and Sabitzer to play with Lemar in behind Abraham.

----------------------Horn
Weiser----Pavard-----Baumgartl-Augustinsson
---------------Eiting------Tousart
Lopes---------------Fekir-------------Forsberg
-----------------------Milik

Subs: Hennessey, Klostermann, Uduokhai, Ascacíbar, Frenkie de Jong, Koziello, Younes


Our defensive unit consists of Benjamin Pavard and Timo Baumgartl paired up at centre-back, Mitchell Weiser at right-back and Ludwig Augustinsson at left-back, with Carel Eiting and Lucas Tousart as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Eiting and Tousart 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 Tousart can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Eiting 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 Tousart’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.

With Tousart running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Carel Eiting.

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

The attacking unit consists of Rony Lopes, Nabil Fekir and Emil Forsberg as our band of three attacking midfielders with Arkadiusz Milik as our lone central striker.

Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.

In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.

Once we have won the ball back, often by Eiting or Tousart, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.

Weiser and Augustinsson can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Eiting and Tousart can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Rony Lopes and Emil Forsberg, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Nabil Fekir our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Fekir 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 Lopes, Forsberg and Milik in via fast passing combinations.

Milik is predominantly an old-style centre forward, however he does possess the technical qualities and versatility to shine in this game. He’ll be physically imposing and not only will he be a threat in the air, but he can also score via great volleys. We’ll look towards his wonderful finishing and passing ability and he’ll also display good positioning and teamwork, and won’t be afraid to help his team defend.

Subs on 75 mins
de Jong on for Eiting, Koziello on for Tousart, and Younes on for Forsberg

Brighton tactics to face Birmingham


---------------------Trapp---------------------
------------Matip----Evans----Blind------------
Cedric-----------------------------------Bernat
---------------Calvalho----Dembele-------------
-----------------------------------------------
-------Callejon-----------------Walcott--------
--------------------Benzema--------------------

BENCH
Gunn
Holding
Schneiderlin
Payet
Pastore
Falcao
Welbeck


TACTICS
Tricky game against Birmingham. We have gone for a five at the back, with two defensive midfielders. It's a complete park the bus. I've inherited a very interesting squad with a lot of options, so it's difficult to pick an 18.

DEFENSE
We must defend as a solid back five, with Evans leading the defense. Don't allow their strikers any room in behind, in general our defensive line will be around the 18 yard box. Everyone get narrow, forcing them to go way out wide and leaving a sea of players in the middle. Cedric and Bernat to take up positions around the edge of the box.

Calvalho and Dembele to protect the defense, not allowing their attacking midfielders any space to work in. The wingers should drop back to form a unit of four.



ATTACK
We need to be very quick on the counter attack. Cedric and Bernat bring pace to the team, and it is pivotal that they are immediately getting forward when we have the ball. Dembele to control most of the game, keeping the ball and picking out the passes, also Blind is handy to pick out a long pass with a long ball upfield.

Our main attack will come from the front three. Benzema should hold up the ball, use his clever link-up play. Walcott and Callejon are nominally wingers, but in truth they will be in virtually free roles as we counter. Both should look to run beyond the striker, cutting infield and looking to get in behind. Look for space in their defense.



SUBSTITUTIONS
If winning
70' Pastore and Schneiderlin for Callejon/Walcott and Calvalho. Two fresh midfielders as we move to a 5-3-2.
85' Welbeck for Benzema. Fresh legs upfront, take the ball into corners.


If losing
60' Payet and Falcao for Blind and Walcott. Move to a 4-4-2.
80' Pastore for Calvalho.

Tottenham Hotspur v Newcastle

--------------------- Ter Stegan -----------------------
-------- Boateng –-- Van Dijk --– D.Luiz ------------
Bellerin ------ A.Vidal ---- L.Modric ---- Guerreiro
----------- B.Silva ----------------- L.Sane -----------
----------------------- M.Icardi ------------------------

Subs:
Carevic, D.Alves, Rudiger, Kondogbia, Lookman, Dembele, Balotelli

Team Tactics:

3-4-2-1

Newcastle have some fantastic players however we feel we have the weapons to subdue their vibrant attack and cause plenty of problems of our own. We expect the opposition to press and blitz at every opportunity, we therefore look to use this to our advantage by drawing them onto us and carving them open on the break, utilising the space in between the lines. We will get the ball into the feet of our CB’s and in doing so hope to trigger the oppositions press, we then look to expose this by getting the ball out wide to our wingbacks to exploit the space vacated by their wingers. We will look to create an overload on the flanks and in doing so, forcing the opposition to commit additional defenders to try and recover the ball which will open up space for our attackers to exploit.

With a 4 man midfield we expect to outnumber the opposition. Ball retention will therefore be key as we exploit the extra man in midfield, pulling the opposition out wide before getting the ball forward to our dangermen.

When the opposition are in possession we drop into a tight 5-4-1 formation, sitting deep we do not allow any space in behind. We have three strong CB’s with the fullbacks dropping in to create a solid back 5. Our two CM’s will sit in and screen the defence, in effect creating a defensive unit of 7 players all camped within our own half. Our aim will be to congest our half of the pitch, the opposition have some world class forwards however we aim to give them no space to operate. We won't chase the ball and will instead let them try and play through us, increasing the chances of turning over possession.


Individual responsibilities:

Goalkeeper – Ter Stegan – Fantastic shot stopping keeper with superb distribution. He will dominate the box, come for the ball and be commanding on set pieces. We look to start attacks from the back, distributing to our CB’s or if the opposition press we take advantage of this by spraying the ball out wide, immediately bypassing the press and putting us on the front foot.

Centre Backs – We go with three CB’s all offering a very physical commanding presence in addition to superb pace and athleticism which will be integral in eliminating the threat posed by the pace of the opposition. VVD will play through the middle and pick up the striker, sticking tight and giving no room to manoeuvre. We anticipate our opposition playing a front 3, we will sit deep and eliminate the ball in behind, forcing the opposition to play in front of us. Boateng and Luiz will offer support to the fullbacks, being on hand to sweep up behind and cut out any danger. Luiz in particular will be key, a right footed LCB ensures that should the RW look to come inside he will be playing into the hands of Luiz who will immediately be in position to cut out the attack.

Fullbacks – We have two pacy fullbacks who's focus will be forming a solid defensive unit alongside the three CB’s. When the opposition are in possession they drop back, creating a rigid back 5 with the CB’s 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 CB’s will deal with any balls into the box. We have the pace to stay with the runs of the opposition wingers and also a threat when going forward. They will look to make attacking runs, overlapping the wingers as we look to make the pitch as wide as possible as we look to overwhelm the opposition out wide.

Central Midfield – Vidal and Modric form a double pivot in midfield. They are both superb technicians look to dominate possession. Vidal will be the holding midfielder, using his physicality and tenacity to match that of the opposition, breaking down play, causing turnovers and recovering possession in the middle of the park. Modric will be key to our playmaker, a superb player with fantastic vision he will look to get on the ball as much as possible as we look to win the midfield battle. If the opposition employ three central midfielders Silva/Sane will drop in to offer support, equaling numbers and making it extremely difficult for the opposition to play through the middle.

Forwards – We play an attacking trio as we go for goals. Sane and Silva will constantly look to play between the lines, dropping into space making themselves difficult to pick up and playing intricate passes as we shift the ball at pace, increasing the speed at which we do so when we get in the oppositions final third. Sane in particular will also be key defensively, his workrate is tireless and his pace will be key in nullifying the threat posed by the oppositions RW. Going forward Sane will look to drive at the opposition and has license to shoot on site. Silva has superb dribbling ability and distribution, if he has the opportunity to cut inside and shoot he will, if not then he will look for the runs of Icardi who is a predator in the box. Icardi plays through the middle, a deadly finisher who will attack the box at all times. We expect the runs made by Silva and Sane will open up space for him on the ball and we expect him to take any chances that fall his ways as he looks to continue his rich vein of form.


Subs 65 mins;

If winning: Silva and Guerreiro off, Kondogbia and Rudiger on. We tighten up at the back with Rudiger offering additional defensive cover, Kondogbia brings additional strength in central midfield as we make ourselves compact and difficult to play through as we see the game out.

If drawing: Silva and Bellerin off, Lookman and D.Alves on. We bring on fresh legs and increased pace in Lookman as the game opens up whilst Alves offers a different option from the flank, his superb distribution an increased attacking option as the game opens up we go 3-4-3 as we look to carve out a winner.

If losing: Guerreiro and Bellerin off, Balotelli and Dembele on. We go all guns blazing with Balotelli going up top alongside Icardi, Silva and Sane. Dembele also comes on for Guerreiro as we look to turn the game around and go for goals.

Samba Tiki-taka

We look to take the game to Hull. A strong defence, with a midfield trio that can control possession and the tempo of the game gives the attacking players freedom when attacking to get at the Hull. Get the two brothers linking up in cm.

We look to press a high tempo them as soon as they enter our half. We get bodies behind the ball, defending and attcking as a unit. Let them have the ball in their own half, conserve our energy.

We go with plenty of pace in attack. Two wide players that will stretch the game, and give us natural width. Creating space for the central players to get on the ball, getting the brothers linking up with each other and the other attackers.

In midfield, we go with the Thiago and Rafinha partnership, Thiago the playmaker, Rafinha the one looking to get in between the lines and always linking the play. Both also have a high energy approach when pressing, this will be important in ensuring we have a solid defensive shape and win the ball back in areas where Hull can't hurt us.


The midfield should never be flat. Create as many lines as possible to increase the options we have in possession, and to create gaps in the opposition. We go with two attacking fbs, stretching the game for us and creating space for our cms to control the game. While also offering options in attack and giving more freedom to the wingers.

We will also try the odd long ball, either direct to Ronaldo or over the top for the pace of our forwards to run on to. Pure pace on the wings, and two players who also put a shift in. Marcelo and Asensio combining down the left, Azpi more defensive.

-------------------- Neuer
Azpilicueta – Ramos - Otamendi – Marcelo
--------------------- Ndidi
--------------- Thiago -- Rafinha
- Guedes ---------------------------- Asensio -
------------------- Ronaldo

Subs. Schmeichel, Valencia, Stones, Can, James,, Richarlison, Costa

Key to our attack is quick attacking play. Varying our play and how we get the ball to our front three in space.

Defending high up the pitch

We look to control the opposition by pressing the space as soon as the opposition enter our half with a narrow rigid defensive unit. Letting them have possession in their half and getting bodies behind the ball.

When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Designed to stop a quick break and allow us to get behind the ball. Get everyone bar Ronaldo behind the ball into position. Stop them breaking and get a solid defensive unit for the opposition to come up against.

Force them in to take risks, and then try and win the ball back when they do. When we win the ball we then have the opportunity to break, attack quickly, take advantage of any space they have left. Use our pace in attack.

As the Hull advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-5-1, narrowing to the side of play.

In this tight rigid formation, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Ndidi will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, reading any dangers to get across.

Narrowing the play to the side the Hull are attacking, pushing them backwards and wide away from danger. When they switch play, we switch over.

Attack

Centre backs play out, they have the option to go long or have Kante, Rafinha and Thiago offering options. Get the ball to our attacking midfield trio.

The attacking trio in front will always be looking for space in between their midfield and attack. Marcelo will always be making himself available advanced down the wing. Giving Asensio more freedom to go inside, the link up play of the two will be another highlight of our play.

We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Rafinha, Thiago, Marcelo and the wingers will always be looking for the killer ball. If it is not on, we are happy to keep possession, attacking down the wings.

Ronaldo has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals.

Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Can for Rafinha. Fresh power and energy.
If winning after 75 mins bring on James for Thiago. Can more defensive next to Ndidi, giving James freedom to get in between the lines.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Richarlison for Guedes. Fresh pace and power.

If drawing after 60 mins bring on Richarlison for Rafinha. Asensio to lcm.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Costa for Guedes. Richarlison right, Ronaldo left. Costa up top.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Can for Asensio. Power and urgency.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Costa and Richarlison for Gudes and Rafinha. 4-4-2. Pure power and pace, attack.

If a red, and a sub is made, then make two like for like subs after for cm and wing for energy at last third and quarter of game.
If a red for Ramos, Otamendi, bring on Stones for Rafinha.
If a red for Azpi, bring on Valencia for Rafinha. If a red for Marcelo, 3 at the back. And 3 like for like subs for cm and wings in last third.
If a red for Thiago or Rafinha, no subs, then like for like in last third as above. If a red for Ndidi, bring on Can for Rafinha.
If a red for Guedes or Asensio, no subs. One plays off Ronaldo. If a red for Ronaldo, then bring on Costa for Guedes.

Arsenal v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

Injuries: Mustafi, Kenedy, Sigurdsson, Boga

----------------------- K Navas
-------- Savic - Mascherano - Koscielny
Juanfran - Jorginho - Gundogan - Hector
------------ R Sanches ------- Eriksen
-------------------- Aubameyang

Subs: Begovic, Monreal, Trippier, Sanson, F Anderson, Willian, Immobile

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

A tough but winnable game today against Arsenal, 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, Keylor Navas in goal, Savic, Mascherano and Koscielny in the back three, Juanfran and Hector as wingbacks, Jorginho and Gundogan anchoring the midfield, with Renato Sanches and Eriksen 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. Arsenal are strong and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.

Navas - 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.

Savic/Mascherano/Koscielny - Savic and Koscielny to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Mascherano 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 Arsenal 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 Sanches and Eriksen 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 Arsenal 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.

R Sanches/Eriksen - Playing at AM, both with the trickery to beat the Arsenal 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 Arsenal 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 Sanches and Eriksen on occasion. Try and link with those two to create opportunities.

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

Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Sanches off, Sanson on. 5-3-1-1, wingbacks to fullback, Sanson in midfield alongside Gundogan and Jorginho, Eriksen behind Aubameyang.

If drawing: Sanches off, Immobile on. Change to 3-4-1-2, Eriksen behind Aubameyang and Immobile, push for the winner.

If losing: Mascherano, Koscielny and Sanches off, F Anderson, Willian and Immobile on. 3-1-4-2, Juanfran - Savic - Hector, Jorginho the playmaker, F Anderson - Gundogan - Eriksen - Willian behind Aubameyang and Immobile upfront. Push for goals.

------------------------- Leno -------------------------
Veltman ---- Llorente ---- Manolas ---- A.Telles
--------------Llorente -------- Pellegrini -----------
Malcom --------------- Mata --------------- Douglas
------------------------- Aspas ------------------------

Pickford, Wendell, Ramsey, Barkley, Mboula, Belotti, Mandzukic


In goal Bernd Leno, 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.

Veltman and Telles have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, (usually Telles) 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 Aspas. 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.. Manolas the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Diego Llorente alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, both strong 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. Manolas and D.Llorente up for corners, fullbacks and Marcos Llorente 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 Manolas and D.Llorente 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..

Marcos Llorente'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, Pellegrini 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. Mata'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 Mata 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.

Costa and Malcom 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 Pellegrini and Mata 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. they will use his tricks and flicks and pace to get them where they wants to be, again using Mata to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Aspas so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack. Aspas 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 the midfield 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 keeping defenders away with his upper body strength and look for runners, in particular the wingers and Mata 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 Costa, Mata and Malcom as they time their runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.

Captain - Manolas
Pens - Aspas/Belotti
Free Kicks - Mata/Douglas
Corners - Wingers

Losing -
70 Mins - Belotti for Mata 442
80 Mins - Mandzukic for Telles he goes to the left of Belotti ( Aspas - Belotti - Mandy) and Veltman to CB 343 Barkley for Pellegrin as well

Winning -
70 Mins - Belotti for Aspas, Ramsey for Mata, Ramsey into a 3 man midfield
80 Mins go 451 with both wingers dropping back a little, Wendell on for Costa

Drawing -
70 Mins - Barkley for Mata, Belotti for Aspas
80 Mins - Mboula for Malcom ( all just fresh legs)

Pompey vs VILLA

Injuries:
28 ST Gonzalo Higuain FG
20 CM Claudio Marchisio FG
3 GK Filipp Kohn U21
25 RW Arjen Robben FG


…………………………….Oblak………………………
Hysaj………….Godin………..Chiellini……….Luis
……………………Kessie………Gagliardini…………..
Griezmann……………..Hamsik……………….Di Maria
……………………………….Cavani……………………………

Subs: Forster, De Vrij, Keane, Cesc, Zlatan, Danilo, Chiesa

Away at high flying Portsmouth, they have some fantastic players that can really blow the opposition away, with this in mind we’re going with a formation I feckin hate with a passion. BUT one that allows to go with a front-four that has blistering pace and will punish them on the counter. High energy pressing from the front today. Get up and at their defence and more defence minded midfielders, either nick the ball or force them into rushed passes, when we get we go hard and fast.

Oblak is a fantastic shot-stopper and will control the area, quick off his line and as brave as something that’s really brave. His presence gives the defence confidence. With the ball he’ll go wide to the full-backs…when pompey cotton on to this and cover our FB’s he’ll go elsewhere, where the spaces are opened up. If he’s claimed a cross/set-piece then he’s to go long as we hit them on the counters.

Hysaj and Luis will play more conservatively than usual today, they can push but rather than both go full-pelt, I want them both pushing upto half-way and from there they can alternate which one cracks on and which one sits back to cover. With the ball they can play the lines or switch the play from flank to flank – we want to keep Pompey chasing shadows as much as possible so when they do get the ball back they’re already feeling “leggy” – nothing fancy play the easy ball.

Godin and Chiellini are about as solid a pairing as you’re likely to see….if Pompey go one-up top then Chiellini is the man marker, I imagine it’ll be Lewa – use the dark arts to stifle him, fair or foul just cut him off….if Lewa drifts wide let him go but keep an eye on him, if he goes towards Godin then switch, no zonal nonsense. If pompey go with 2 up-top then they pick a man each, this is a side where we all know our role, no excuses. With the ball both men keep it simple no need for Hollywood passes.

Gags and Kessie former team-mates at Atalanta and now on separate sides of the Milan divide. Both have great engines on them and both like to get stuck in, this isn’t a partnership based on a fantasy theory but with tangible proof….they’ll both sit today and mop up any attacks that come through the middle, we expect KDB to be their play-making focal point so Kessie will smash him all game long hit on his touch and try to bully him out the game, Gag’s will sweep up the loose ball and drive it forwards.
Griezmann and ADM are rapid and we’ll use that pace on the counter, get it out-wide to them quickly and try and isolate Pompey’s FB’s, with Hysaj and Luis alternating the over-laps it enables one of these two to cut inside and give us the overloads at the back-stick.

Hamsik plays as our #10, fantastic touch, excellent range of passing and carries a genuine goal threat, with the added bonus of his previous partnership with Cavani at Napoli.


Cav leads the line today, big strong and good in the air, a pure hard worker he and Higuain are as different as night and day. Cav will press hard from the front backed up by the trident behind him, high pressure but the perfect counter-attacking unit.

Subs

65 mins:
Danilo > Gagliardini

70 mins:
Cesc > Hamsik

75 mins:

Zlatan > Cavani

---------------------Rulli
Clyne---Sokratis---Vertonghen---Kurzawa
-------------------Vecino
-------Strootman------Kovacic
Sterling-----------------------------Son
------------------Lacazette
Subs
Heaton, Retsos, Sidibe, Bender, Dahoud, Thauvin, Sanabria


Rulli 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 - Kovacic 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. Vecino 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 - Son takes Direct FK's



For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners





Penalties - Lacazette is the designated taker.

Subs



If Winning


70 mins - Thauvin 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 - Bender for Kovacic and Sidibe for Kurzawa - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Sidibe for Clyne - Add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.

If Losing



67 Mins - Thauvin and Sanabria for Vecino and Clyne - switch to a 3-5-2 (Son ST, Sterling CAM,Thauvin RWB) with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.

---------------------- DeGea ----------------------
Carvajal --- Bonucci --- Laporte --- A.Sandro
--------- Rakitic --- Rabiot --- Pogba ----------
Mbappe ------------Aguero ------------ Neymar

Butland, Lenglet, Tolisso, Bailey, Rashford, 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 DDG 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. Both are perfect for this, as they both have a good passing range. Sandro and Carvajal at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. 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 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, Rabiot 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 Sandro/Carvajal 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 Rakitic and Pogba alongside allows him the time as they shield him, they don't allow anyone to get on top of Rabiot which gives him that extra second to get the ball moving. We can move very quickly from defence to attack, so if they are up field and lose it then we can counter very quickly,
like said Rakitic and Pogba are vital in both defensive and attacking mode, they with Rabiot shield our back 4 I want them to press there midfield, but when we are in control they will push just up ahead of Rabiot 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 their 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/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 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 - Tolisso for Pogba, adds energy and more steel to our midfield
80 Mins - Bailey for Mbappe - will get up and down the wing to support defence and attack, Jesus for Aguero, again run at everything and close them down up the pitch

Losing -
70 Mins - Jesus and Tolisso for Pogba and Rakitic 442 with Jesus up top with Aguero
80 Mins - Bailey for Sandro 343 with Mbappe going to the left of Aguero

Drawing -
70 Mins - Tolisso, Jesus, Poulsen for Rakitic, Pogba and Aguero 4231 with Jesus supporting Poulsen who will win high balls as we change our style a bit to long ball if needed

BIRMINGHAM vs Brighton

----------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Aurier------------Bailly---------------Ake-------------Alonso
-----------------------------------Matic--------------------------------------
------------------------Alli------------------Matuidi------------------------------
Lucas------------------------------------------------------------Perisic
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------Gomez------------------------------------------

Subs - Caricol, Brozovic, Winks, Arnautovic, Mahrez, Gnabry, Silva

CAPTAIN - MATIC
CK'S - PERISIC
FK'S - PERISIC
PENALTIES - GOMEZ

Going with a more attacking formation this week as the oppo have a new manager and we need to put the pressure on so playing the 433.

I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo dont get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. 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. As the game goes on, 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 is 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. Howedes and Ake bring a whole lot of experience and pace to the defence. Bailly will use his experience to marshal the defence and Ake will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. 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 and Matuidi 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.

Centre Mids
Matuidi + Alli
Matuidi will play more as a b2b mid but will be able to help both in attack and defence as he has a lot of stsmina. He will be making run's forward and helping our attackers with quick passes and penetrating runs from deep. Alli will be playing CM on paper but his main role will be to help in attack. When not in possession of the ball Alli will look to close down the oppo DM's and win the ball off them. No need to stay to deep as Matuidi and Matic are adequate cover in the middle. When attacking I want Alli to make runs into the oppo box and bring others into the game. Play 1 2'swith the wingers and create space for yourself and your teammates. Shoot if you see an opening at goal.

Wingers
Lucas + Perisic
Moura and Perisic are two quick wingers but with a sense of physicality to them. Moura is very fast so I want him to take on the oppo left back and to make runs in behind him. Perisic is a tall lad and has the ability to use his strength to shrug off oppo defenders. Moura will look to play on the outside and get to the byline and whip in some crosses. Perisic likewise although I want him to drift in more and play like an infield striker. I want you both to help track back and help the full backs when they are in our half of the pitch.

Striker
Maximiliano Gomez
Gomez will look to use his strength and aerial prowess to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses from your teammates as you are an expert at scoring headers, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. When we don't have possession of the ball I want you to drop deep and wait around the half way line for an opportunity to hit the oppo on the counter attack, in other words when we win the ball back from a deep position, we will play the long ball into you, and you will hold the ball up while our wingbacks gers make attacking runs upfield and play them through.

Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Gnabry for Matic and Mahrez for Lucas to bring some more pace on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212.

--------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Aurier-------------Bailly-----------Ake-------------Alonso
--------------------------------Matuidi-------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mahrez----------------------------------------------------------Perisic
------------------------------------Alli------------------------------------
-------------------Gnabry------------Gomez--------------------------


Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Alli and put on Caricol in CB and play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Mahrez on for Moura and Arnautovic for Perisic to bring some much needed freshness in midfield.

-------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Aurier-------Bailly--------Ake--------Caricol-------Alonso
----------------------Matic----------Matuidi----------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------Mahrez---------------------------------Arnautovic---------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------Gomez----------------------------------------


Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Gnabry on for Gomez
Mahrez on for Lucas
Winks on for Alli
Fresh legs to bring on.

--------------------------- Ederson
--------- Alderweireld -- Javi.M ---- Varane
K.Walker ------- Khedira ----- Verratti -------- Ghoulam
-------------- K.De Bruyne ---- Alexis Sanchez
------------------------ Lewandowski

Subs: Meret, Tah, Kolasinac, Partey, D.Silva, O.Dembele, Mertens

3-4-1-2 - possession based, in good form and going in with a near full strength side. Dictate the game, playing out from the back with plenty of options on the ball, off the ball when we regain possesion we transition to counter within seconds and hit them hard.

Gone in with a side full of players that will put a shift in down both ends of the pitch, from our attacking trio to our new signing Verratti, who will buzz about all game and make his presence felt with his superior passing and tackling ability.

We don't want to play in congested midfield areas throughout the game, so our quick wing-backs are essential. allow us to play with real width, creating space in the middle and gaps in the opposition defence.

De Bruyne and Alexis Sanchez will be given the flexibility to roam and influence the game as much as possible, we don't want to tie them down to any one position. Pass and move, play off Lewandowski and put real pressure on that Villa defence, not a moments rest.

In terms of defensively, we sit slightly deeper to neutralise the pace of their forwards, De Bruyne comes deeper to form a midfield trio and press intensively in central areas, A.Sanchez joining Lewa in attack to press from the front.

3-4-2-1 - 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 Lewandowski as a target man to bypass their mf.

Alderweireld & Varane should shift slightly wider when on the offense allowing our wing-backs to push up in a bank of 4 in mf.

Khedira & Verratti, 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, Khedira 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 Lewa 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 Aston Villa are in possession we will initially look to press from front with our two strikers (Lewa + 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 Villa 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, Khedira man-man their AM, looking to harass him and using his physical prowess to really put him off his game, Verratti 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: 64th minute – (3-4-2-1)
- Partey > Khedira
- O.Dembele > A.Sanchez
Compact 3-4-2-1, Partey fresh legs in mf, O.Dembele replaces Alexis and looks to get us driving forward with his pace and skill set.

IF DRAW: 70th minute – (3-4-3 - wide)
- O.Dembele > De Bruyne
- D.Silva > Verratti
- Mertens > Lewa (77th min)
O.Dembele and A.Sanchez look to play as natural wingers in a 3-4-3. D.Silva in a deeper role looking to dictate the tempo and work opportunities, Mertens, coming on to add a fresh dynamic as CF.

IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- Mertens > Javi. M
- O.Dembele > Verratti
- Partey > Khedira
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 - Lewandowski
FK's - De Bruyne
Corners - De Bruyne/A.Sanchez
Pens – Lewandowski

—————————Rico
———Zouma—-—Diop——Gnagnon
Bernardo—Diawara——Barella———Jorge
————Gelson——Lukaku——B.Keita

Subs: Dragowski, Elvedi, Soler, Laimer, Lo Celso, Oyarzabal, Schick

Captain: Sergio Rico
Corners: Gelson Martins
Free Kicks: Jorge/Gelson Martins
Penalties: Romelu Lukaku

Off the ball we are looking to make the most of our structures ability to suffocate space and make the opposition feel like they have limited time and space, without taking an aggressive approach to pressing and leaving ourselves open. The front three will be the first line of our defence, falling back towards our midfield line, with Lukaku on top of their deepest midfielder, using his physical presence to dissuade Everton using him as an orchestrator for their attacks. The SS’s will drop in to the space between the WBs and the CMs to create a 4 man midfield, allowing us to overcrowd their midfield and make it difficult for them to pass through us. None of the front three need to be particularly good at tackling, they are simply their to fill space and make sure there’s no space with our defensive lines. The aim of this initial phase is to stop Everton trying to play through the middle and to force them out wide, by insuring that their CBs have no passing lanes open centrally, force them to use the FBs to build.

Once they go wide this is where we can start to create triangles and diamonds within our shape to really suffocate the man on the ball, without breaking out structure. When the ball goes to the opposition FB it is the WB who steps forward and presses the space in front of the ball carrier, not allowing the FB to pass or run forward, with the ball side CM and SS stepping up behind to give the FB cover and close the diagonal passing lanes, whilst the wide CB steps forward to create the base of the diamond, sticking tight to the wide forward, both Zouma and Gagnon have pace but what they will have bags of over their opposition is physicality, so they must be strong, stand up to the wingers and bully them into going wide or giving the ball away. Use this diamond to suffocate the build up and make Everton feel like they have no where to go, with Lukaku always on the DM to stop him being an option to change the direction of the attack, make them go back to the CBs and lose valuable time. When one side is defending build up, the other side is dropped slightly deeper so that longer diagonal balls are easily crowded out, and if they go back to the CBs to switch side it means that when the opposite side push forward to press the other side has time to drop back in behind.

Whenever they have possession deep inside our half we drop into a 5-4-1, the back 5 allowing us to control the full width of the field and with spare men against their forwards, and the line of 4 allows to make things congested in the middle, with Gelson and Keita always tucked in by the CMs. Here we defend zonally both in midfield and defence, so Lukaku on the DM and then when a CM has it, our zonal CM steps up and forces him back or side, with SS’s and CMs dropping behind this CM to cover the space behind, and when they go wide, WB steps up to do the same whilst the midfield drop behind. When a forward gets the ball, our nearest CB/WB steps up to put pressure on, again forcing them sideways or backwards, whilst the rest of the defence drops back so we always have a back 4 behind the man pressuring the ball carrier.

Going forward we look to play with lots of pace on the counter, and key to this will be the WBs and SSs. As soon as we win it back we looking to transition to a front 5, our WBs pushing high up the field looking to maintain the width and stretch the opposition back line right across the field, stop their FBs being able to tuck in and help deal with our SS’s, if they do this they leave the flanks wide open and our WBs will take advantage, both fast and love driving into space, particularly Jorge who we will look to play through they do hold a narrow defensive line. The WBs aim is to link up with the SS’s, CMs and wide CBs to create quick interplay, beat the FBs out wide and whip in crosses, as well as making runs between FB and CB when the chance arises. This leaves the SS’s total freedom in attack, with no one to mark they they can pick the ball up in pockets of space and use their pace and trickery to drive at the defence, their job is to draw players towards them, which will pull defenders out of their natural positions and either beat them with trickery, or play the WBs/Lukaku into the space that opens up in their back line. Lukaku is their to use his physicality and movement, battle their CBs, attack crosses, and make runs into space.

Diawara and Barella provide an energetic base in midfield, when we attack the ball side CM must be behind play at all times in order to step in and put immediate pressure on if we lose the ball, he will be supported by the ball side CB who will be aggressive when we lose the ball, looking to snuff out any counters particularly dominating the space behind the WB. Opposite CM is there to be a link man, if the attacks needs to switch sides he provides that outlet, particularly Barella who will be quick to get the ball and then drive at the free space on the opposite side, draw their midfield out of their shape and use his passing to connect play. This leaves the two remaining CBs behind to deal with the striker and keep him isolated.




Subs:

If Winning: Elvedi and Laimer for Bernardo and Gelson 70’, 3-5-2 solidifying the team. Schick for B.Keita 75’, big target man who can hold the play up and act as an outlet for counters, get Lukaku running off him.

If Drawing: Oyarzabal for Keita 70’, fresh legs to ignite our attack. Soler for Barella 75’, fresh legs in midfield and someone who can drive forward. Schick for Gelson 80’, goes up front and acts as a target to draw players away from his team mates.

If Losing: Lo Celso for Gnagnon 60’, 4-3-3. Oyzarabal and Soler for B.Keita and Barella 70’.

——————————Pope
Conti——Christensen——Umtiti——Zagadou
—————Fabinho———Torreira
Sabitzer—————Savic—————Lemar
————————Morata

Subs: Svilar, Lindelof, Gaya, Tielemans, Brandt, Philipp, Mariano

Captain: Fabinho
Corners: Marcel Sabitzer
Free Kicks: Fabinho/Marcel Sabitzer
Penalties: Fabinho

Tough game but with the right work rate there’s definitely something for us here. Off the ball we look to take a more passive approach to defending, in order to maintain a compact set up. Our front 4 will be charged with counter pressing and slowing opposition attacks down after turnovers. We want the three ball side forwards to lead the counter press, putting pressure on the deepest Chelsea midfielder’s, Milinkovic-Savic and Morata in particular making sure that they are forced into slower sideways-movements, whilst the ball side winger will look to close off diagonal forward passing lanes towards the opposition winger. This is designed to allow our CMs to recover their position in front of our defence, and allow the opposite side players to also fall into their defensive positions, whilst slowing the attack down and forcing it wider gives the opponents less room to manoeuvre into.

Once we have moved them wide we drop in to a 4-5-1, Milinkovic-Savic dropping in alongside Fabinho and Torreira with the wingers tucked narrow to create a 5 vs 2 in midfield, with Morata sat on the deepest midfielder. We focus on defending our own half zonally, giving their midfield no room to play in, Fabinho and Torreira using their defensive nouse to snuff out any attacks that begin to threaten our back 4.

The wingers will be key, they focus on defending the half spaces, both very hard working. If it goes wide, ball side winger drops right back when the opposition winger cuts inside so our FBs can narrow right up to the CBs and stay with the winger. Likewise centrally when the ball side CM goes to press, Savic will drop in to cover that space and opposite side winger will tuck in, we want to put the pressure on as a unit, create a really solid block in the middle and frustrate the opposition.

Morata and Savic will be key to this system working, they work really hard but they’re going to have to keep it up and stop Chelsea’s deep midfielder orchestrating play. Morata will sit on him whenever we are out of possession, don’t allow him to comfortably pick the ball up from the CBs, don’t allow him to be the one recycling possession when an attack breaks down, don’t give him time and space to pick forward passes. Meanwhile Savic is the spare man centrally, and he must his considerable physical presence to really disrupt Chelsea, if another CM drops off to support their DM, he follows him and doesn’t allow him time on the ball, allowing our DMs to stay put and not open up gaps, if a FB comes forward and our winger has to stretch out to deal with him, Savic fills the space between winger and CM and insures we’re never 2 v 2 in any deeper position or 1 v 2 in any of Chelsea’s early build up phases. When he wins the ball he is the one driving the team forward, beating their press and opening the game up.

The back four remains narrow to each other, no gaps between FBs and CBs, we know that their forwards are tricky and want to exploit these positions, keep tight to them, make sure we are always close together so if one player is beaten, he’s always backed up. Stand up strong to them and look to get a toe in, force the ball back towards midfield.

Going forward we look to create overloads in the opposition’s formation. The Cbs will support this style, both able to bring the ball out of defence and fire laser passes between the lines. This will serve to draw the opposition on to them and create a spare man in midfield.

Fabinho/Torreira will be disciplined, we don’t want them getting caught out of position, so their job is to find space deeper to aid the build up, use deep half-space crosses towards target men.

When we get into the final third overloads out wide will become pivotal, particularly down our left side. Savic will look to drift out towards the half spaces in order to create triangles out wide. With their wingers not known for their tracking back, we can really hurt Chelsea’s FBs today. When Savic drifts wide, the opposite winger tucks in and takes up the 10 space to maintain our central presence, and to stop their DMs being quick to leave the middle ground open, this will either create space for Savic or the tucked in winger. Down the left we want to get Savic and Lemar, doubling up on their RB. On the opposite side Conti will push right up, stop their opposite side FB following Sabitzer when he comes infield, gives us the option of crosses from the left, switches to the right using Conti as a target man at the back post, and quick transitions infield.

The trio behind Morata today will be key. Savic will be a key focal point for overloads as his strength means that we can get balls into him from deeper and he will hold the ball up and allow players to run off of him, whilst from crosses he is able to get in the box as a second striker and bully their CBs. Lemar will be looking to use his pace to run at the opposition, when we create overloads down the left, the aim is to free up Lemar to make runs behind the defence, use his pace. Sabizter will be an inverted winger for the most part, drift into the free 10 space and occupy their DM.

Morata looks to use his movement to get behind the defence and also to position himself for crosses. When we are building centrally he can drop deep to provide another body to overload their midfield, this will serve to pull defenders towards the midfield, allowing the wingers to go the other way and create big gaps.
Subs:

If Winning: Mariano for Morata 70’, more physical striker to hold the ball up and battle them. Lindelof for Lemar 75’, 5-3-1-1 with Sabizter in behind Mariano, control the centre ground.

If Drawing: Brandt and Philipp for Sabitzer and Lemar 70’, two new types of winger for them to deal with, Philipp looks to be the furthest forward and break the offside trap with his pass, Brandt likes to unlock the defence with his passing. Mariano for Morata 75’, new threat up front.

If Losing: Gaya for Zagadou 60’, more offensive FB to come on and add an extra body in attack. Mariano for Torreira 70’, 4-4-2, more direct balls in to the strikers and press hexagonally from there, wingers tucking narrow to help put lots of pressure on and win the ball from knock downs and counter off it. Philipp for Sabitzer 75’, someone to break the lines with his pace in behind.

NEWCASTLE 4-3-3

Captain: Harry Kane
Penalties: Mo Salah
Corners: Philippe Coutinho
Freekicks: Philippe Coutinho
Crossing Freekick: Philippe Coutinho

—————————— Alisson
Florenzi — Hummels — Koulibaly — Robertson
————————— Casemiro
—————— Nainggolan — Coutinho
Salah ————————————————— Mane
——————————— Kane

SUBS: Sule, Rose, Keita, N’Zonzi, Ozil, Suso, Firmino


We’ll press the opposition like Liverpool and win the ball as close to their goal as possible or move the ball up the pitch towards the opposition’s goal quickly. My 4-3-3 will overload his midfield and pin back his wing backs. We’ll use the quickness of our one touch, short passing game and using the pace & dribbling ability of the attacking players. However when the opposition get close to our box, we will revert to a defensive block to limit their chances. We defend and attack as a collective unit, limiting the space between the lines in which the opposition plays in.

We will start Pjanic in deep midfield to keep the ball rolling and take advantage of his penetrative passes.

When in attack we will get forward in numbers, using the footballing intelligence & movement of our attacking midfielders & striker to create passing angles and overloads in the opposition’s area of the pitch both out wide and in central zones, looking to drag the opposition’s players out of position and exploiting the space they leave open. When the opposition is using a deep defensive block to shut out our team we will use our fullbacks to create numbers out wide to stretch the opposition (this will be assisted by our CDM splitting the CBs wider allowing the FBs to move up the pitch) simultaneously using our wide-forward to cut inside to create overloads in the central areas giving us a number advantage. When creating chances from the wide areas with the FBs or WFs, we will send crosses in to feed the other forwards. Making runs behind the defence and beyond the striker is not prohibited by our attacking and central midfielders (minus CDM). There is a lot freedom in the movement of our attacking players. No player is restricted to a specific zone on the field or specific task. All four attackers (Coutinho, Salah, Mane, Kane) will either be provider or finisher with Nainggolan supporting and Casemiro sitting deep in midfield. Shooting from outside the box is encouraged. Our players will also press constantly from the front when we lose possession of the ball.

Offensive & Defensive Transitions:

This is the player's movements & reactions when moving between defence and attack, importantly the movement of the ball as this is arguably the most important aspect of our game. Winning the ball back when your opposition is disorganized is the perfect moment. We will aim for rapid movement up the pitch, with progressive passing to exploit the space left by the opposition. Whether it is from our defensive third of the pitch or whether we have won the ball back in our attacking third of the pitch we will exploit the disorganization of the opposition. We expect most of our attacking play will be as a result of our aggressive high press so we will use the following triggers for pressing the opponent:

1. The ball is played to a player facing his own goal

2. The ball is played to a player against the sidelines (using the sideline as an extra man in our favour)

3. A difficult bouncing ball is played to a player facing his own goal.

When any of these triggers happen, the players closest to the ball will press quickly and another 2 or 3 players will hold off slightly adding depth to the press and closing down their easy option pass. Once we win possession of the ball, we break in numbers again exploiting the opposition with either the pace of our attack. We also understand that we won't always get it right when pressing the opposition so we will employ a 10-second rule on pressing from the front after which, if we did not win back possession, we will revert to our defensive block. If we don’t win the ball after our initial phase of pressing it's imperative that the players work their way back into our defensive zone of the pitch and close the space that the opposition will look to play in. Close the space quickly and look to frustrate the opposition with intelligent positioning and hard tackling before winning the ball back and breaking forward at rapid speed. We will compact the central zones and force the opposition wide which limits the chances of breaking through our midfield. Long diagonal balls and quick releases from deep are encouraged when the opportunity arises. Our forwards have the pace to run onto through-balls.

We go into our defensive block if we cannot win the ball through our pressing. As a team we will defend deep in our half and close the space in the middle of the pitch. When forcing the opposition closer to the touchlines, we will use the touch line as an extra-man and press them so that we can win possession and result in us outnumbering them. If the play is on the left of the field the team will move towards the left and squeeze the space and vice versa on the right. We will try to force our opponents to play hopeful crosses into our box. If a cross is coming from their right our LB will also move into the box to help deal with crosses and vice versa if the cross is coming from the left. The midfielders will be around the box pressing the opponent should they try to play it central. Our wide forwards will help the midfield in closing the space in the centre and then proceed to help the fullback after we have moved the opponent towards the touchline. The wide-forwards are the real work horses in the team and I have 2 very good, hard-working wide-forwards. Our striker will also drop into our half to help the midfield press the opposition’s defence. Also the reasoning behind dropping the striker deep is to draw the opponent’s defence away from their goal creating ample space for us to counter attack.

Substitutions:

If winning after 80 mins bring on N’Zonzi for Coutinho. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater defensive cover.

If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Ozil for Coutinho. Fresh creativity and legs.

If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Firmino for Nainggolan. Casemiro will press higher to win the ball back quickly. Firmino with more goal threat, plays up front with Kane, in a 4-4-2.

League Cup Semi Final 2nd leg
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS (2) v (2) Newcastle United

Injuries: Stephens, Jorginho, Koscielny, Boga

------------------- K Navas
------- Savic - Mascherano - Cahill
Juanfran - Jorginho - A Gomes - Bernat
---------- Pastore -------- Eriksen
---------------- Aubameyang

Subs: Begovic, Evans, Milner, Dendoncker, Sigurdsson, F Anderson, Immobile

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

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.

Away goals could be vital in this tie so I want us to be tight to their attack, we have two away goals, it would be ideal if we could stop them scoring any in return.

We are playing a 3-4-2-1 today, Keylor Navas in goal, Savic, Mascherano and Cahill in the back three, Juanfran and Bernat as wingbacks, Andre Gomes and Gundogan anchoring the midfield, with Pastore and Eriksen 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.

Navas - 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.

Savic/Mascherano/Cahill - Savic and Cahill to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Mascherano 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/Bernat - 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 Pastore and Eriksen 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 Gomes/Gundogan. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Gomes/Gundogan - Gundogan playing the box to box role, assist Gomes in dealing with the Newcastle attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Gomes stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Gomes 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.

Pastore/Eriksen - 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 Gomes/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 Pastore and Eriksen on occasion. Try and link with those two to create opportunities.

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

Subs 70 mins;
If winning or drawing 0-0/1-1: Pastore off, Dendoncker on. 5-3-1-1, wingbacks to fullback, Dendoncker in midfield alongside Gundogan and Gomes, Eriksen behind Aubameyang.

If drawing 2-2: Gomes off, Immobile on. Change to 3-4-1-2, Pastore to CM with Gundogan, Eriksen behind Aubameyang and Immobile, push for the winner.

If losing or drawing 3-3: Mascherano, Gomes and Bernat off, F Anderson, Sigurdsson and Immobile on. 3-1-4-2, Juanfran - Savic - Cahill, Gundogan the playmaker, F Anderson - Pastore - Eriksen - Sigurdsson behind Aubameyang and Immobile upfront. Push for goals.

Milner sold, Kenedy in his place on the bench

---------------------- C.Walton -----------------------
Henrichs ---- Sanchez ---- Laporte ----- Emerson
---------- Tolisso ---- Rabiot ---- Draxler ----------
K.Mbappe ------------ Jesus -------------- Rashford

Muric, Lenglet, Cuisance, Aouar, Bailey, Poulsen, Fiete-Arp

We want to play high tempo football with plenty of possession, these guys train with our squad so know the drill, we take a slight advantage into this game so we must go for it. 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

Christian Walton is an imposing figure between the sticks with excellent reflexes to make him a commanding shot-stopper and comfortable with the ball at his feet, 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 Laporte at CB, Sanchez picks up the CF, Laporte 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 out of defence, no need to panic, look to move it simply to Rabiot or our fullbacks as we look to start our attacks from deep. Henrichs and Emerson 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, Emerson gets outside Rashford 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. I want both CBs to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Rabiot sitiing back.

Our midfield 3 are essential to our style of play, Rabiot 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/Emerson 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 Tolisso and Draxler alongside allows him the time as they shield him, they don't allow anyone to get on top of Rabiot which gives him that extra second to get the ball moving. We can move very quickly from defence to attack, so if Liverpool are up field and lose it then we can counter very quickly, like said Tolisso and Draxler are vital in both defensive and attacking mode, they with Rabiot shield our back 4 but when we are in control they will push just up ahead of Rabiot 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 Liverpool 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 Jesus , looking to get him in on goal or indeed have a go himself,

In Mbappe and Rashford we will look to push them back up the pitch by pressing them,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 Henrichs and Emerson as we look to have a real go down the flanks, Rashford will play more of a 'winger' than Mbappe so he will drive down the line with pace,(he is extremely quick) beating his man along the way, can use Draxler and Henrichs as the three look to eventually get the ball into Jesus or Mbappe driving in from the right. Mbappe himself does all the fancy stuff, but it does tend to come off, so we allow him to be free today, with Henrichs in support and Tolisso there making himself available like the left our right will be very dangerous, we need to use our pace to our advantage get beyond the fullbacks and drive into support Jesus. Must help the defence tho by tracking the fullbacks or wingbacks

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, I want to press them back into there own half, they may well have possession but if its in there own half they wont cause us many problems.

Jesus 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, they may be big and strong but with a low centre of gravity he can push passed them hopefully, 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, Rashford and 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 Mbappe 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 - Tolisso
Penalties - Mbappe
Free Kicks - Rabiot form deep, Mbappe for goal
Corners - Wingers

Subs
60 Mins - Bailey for Rashford, he goes to RW and Mbappe to LW, gives us more pace against tiring defenders and a real handful

Losing -
70 Mins - Poulsen for Draxler, we go 4231 with Poulsen right up top, Jesus will play off his shoulder looking for knock downs or lay offs
80 Mins - Fiete-Arp for Emerson we go 343, Poulsen and Arp play as a two with Jesus roaming just behind them as we go for it

Winning -
70 Mins - Cuisance for Draxler, adds a bit of steel to our midfield
80 Mins - we go to a flat midfield 5, and Poulsen on for Jesus, he can hold it up and bring others into the game, still a threat tho, however if they equalise the wingers will again push up

Drawing -
70 Mins - Poulsen for Draxler, we can use the high ball to him as he will win some battles in the air v there cbs and Jesus will look for the knock downs as he plays just off him in a 4231
Extra Time at Half Time
Fiete-Arp for Jesus straight swap

Pens - If it goes that far and depending who is on the pitch
1. Mbappe
2. Bailey
3. Rabiot
4. Jesus
5. Fiete-Arp
6. Poulsen
7. Henrichs
8. Laporte
9. Tolisso
10. Emerson

For Cuisance please read that as Paredes on the subs bench please

NEWCASTLE

-----------------------Lloris
-----Marquinhos-----Hummels-----Koulibaly
Florenzi-----Keita------Nainggolan-------Rose
-------Salah-------Suarez---------Mane
Subs
Fekir, Ozil, Casemiro, Tierney, Milner, Firmino, 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 - Keita 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 - Suarez takes Direct FK's



For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners





Penalties - Suarez is the designated taker.

Subs



If Winning


70 mins - Tierney 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 + 85 Mins - Casemiro for Nainggolan and Fekir 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.

(Just realised I've played an injured player)

League Cup Semi Final 2nd leg
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS (2) v (2) Newcastle United

Injuries: Stephens, Jorginho, Koscielny, Boga

------------------- K Navas
------- Savic - Mascherano - Cahill
Juanfran - Gundogan - A Gomes - Bernat
---------- Pastore -------- Eriksen
---------------- Aubameyang

Subs: Begovic, Evans, Kenedy, Dendoncker, Sigurdsson, F Anderson, Immobile

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

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.

Away goals could be vital in this tie so I want us to be tight to their attack, we have two away goals, it would be ideal if we could stop them scoring any in return.

We are playing a 3-4-2-1 today, Keylor Navas in goal, Savic, Mascherano and Cahill in the back three, Juanfran and Bernat as wingbacks, Andre Gomes and Gundogan anchoring the midfield, with Pastore and Eriksen 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.

Navas - 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.

Savic/Mascherano/Cahill - Savic and Cahill to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Mascherano 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/Bernat - 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 Pastore and Eriksen 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 Gomes/Gundogan. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Gomes/Gundogan - Gundogan playing the box to box role, assist Gomes in dealing with the Newcastle attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Gomes stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Gomes 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.

Pastore/Eriksen - 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 Gomes/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 Pastore and Eriksen on occasion. Try and link with those two to create opportunities.

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

Subs 70 mins;
If winning or drawing 0-0/1-1: Pastore off, Dendoncker on. 5-3-1-1, wingbacks to fullback, Dendoncker in midfield alongside Gundogan and Gomes, Eriksen behind Aubameyang.

If drawing 2-2: Gomes off, Immobile on. Change to 3-4-1-2, Pastore to CM with Gundogan, Eriksen behind Aubameyang and Immobile, push for the winner.

If losing or drawing 3-3: Mascherano, Gomes and Bernat off, F Anderson, Sigurdsson and Immobile on. 3-1-4-2, Juanfran - Savic - Cahill, Gundogan the playmaker, F Anderson - Pastore - Eriksen - Sigurdsson behind Aubameyang and Immobile upfront. Push for goals.

————————Svilar
—Christensen—Skriniar—Umtiti
R.Pereira—Fabinho—Zinchenko——Gaya
————Lemar———————Savic
—————————Dybala

Subs: Courtois, Zagadou, Torreira, Tielemans, Brandt, Philipp, Abraham

Captain: Fabinho
Free Kicks: Fabinho/Paulo Dybala
Penalties: Fabinho
Corners: Thomas Lemar

Off the ball we are looking to make the most of our structures ability to suffocate space and make the opposition feel like they have limited time and space, without taking an aggressive approach to pressing and leaving ourselves open. The front three will be the first line of our defence, falling back towards our midfield line, with Dybala on top of their deepest midfielder, looking to dissuade Chelsea from using him as an orchestrator for their attacks. The SS’s will drop in to the space between the WBs and the CMs to create a 4 man midfield, allowing us to overcrowd their midfield and make it difficult for them to pass through us. Whilst Lemar and Dybala’s main job is to get their positioning right and fill gaps, we want Savic to get stuck into the opposition and disrupt their play as much as possible, he is the link between defending and attacking. The aim of this initial phase is to stop Chelsea trying to play through the middle and to force them out wide, by insuring that their CBs have no passing lanes open centrally, force them to use the FBs to build.

Once they go wide this is where we can start to create triangles and diamonds within our shape to really suffocate the man on the ball, without breaking out structure. When the ball goes to the opposition FB it is the WB who steps forward and presses the space in front of the ball carrier, not allowing the FB to pass or run forward, with the ball side CM and SS stepping up behind to give the FB cover and close the diagonal passing lanes, whilst the wide CB steps forward to create the base of the diamond, sticking tight to the wide forward, both Christensen and Umtiti have pace but it is their reading of the game that stands them apart from the rest, anticipate the forward passes and get to them first or push the wingers wide. Use this diamond to suffocate the build up and make Chelsea feel like they have no where to go, with Dybala always on the DM to stop him being an option to change the direction of the attack, make them go back to the CBs and lose valuable time, we want to keep them playing slow, ponderous football. When one side is defending build up, the other side is dropped slightly deeper so that longer diagonal balls are easily crowded out, and if they go back to the CBs to switch side it it gives the opposite side time to push forward to press and the other side has time to drop back in behind.

Whenever they have possession deep inside our half we drop into a 5-4-1, the back 5 allowing us to control the full width of the field and with spare men against their forwards, and the line of 4 allows to make things congested in the middle, with Lemar and Savic always tucked in by the CMs. Here we defend zonally both in midfield and defence, so Dybala on the DM and then when a CM has it, our zonal CM steps up and forces him backwards or sideways, with SS’s and CMs dropping behind this CM to cover the space behind, and when they go wide, WB steps up to do the same whilst the midfield drop behind. When a forward gets the ball, our nearest CB/WB steps up to put pressure on, again forcing them sideways or backwards, whilst the rest of the defence drops back so we always have a back 4 behind the man pressuring the ball carrier.

Going forward we look to play with lots of pace on the counter, and key to this will be the WBs and front three. As soon as we win it back we looking to transition to a front 5, our WBs pushing high up the field looking to maintain the width and stretch the opposition back line right across the field, stop their FBs being able to tuck in and help deal with our SS’s, if they do this they leave the flanks wide open and our WBs will take advantage, both fast and love driving into space, particularly Gaya who we will look to play through they do hold a narrow defensive line. The WBs aim is to link up with the forwards, CMs and wide CBs to create quick interplay, beat the FBs out wide and whip in crosses, as well as making runs between FB and CB when the chance arises. This leaves the forwards total freedom in attack, with the opposition backline stretched by our WBs they they can pick the ball up in pockets of space and use their pace and trickery to drive at the defence, their job is to draw players towards them, which will pull defenders out of their natural positions and either beat them with trickery, or play the WBs/forward into the space that opens up in their back line. We start with Dybala as the false 9 but as he drifts to get involved in play, we will look to Savic to provide a physical presence, both for crosses and running from deeper, and be a target man if we are struggling to get out. Lemar when he takes up the false 9 position looks to use his pace to run in behind, so all three provide a different kind of threat for the opposition to deal with.

Fabinho and Zinchenko provide an energetic base in midfield, they are looking to snuff out any counters positioning themselves behind the attacks with support from the ball side wide CB who will push up to deal with balls down the flank. Both can play in the wide positions so if we are forced to build wider these two make this much more effecting, as they can drift out towards the ball and create overloads.


Subs:

If Winning: Torreira for Zinchenko 70’, comes on to break up play with his in your face all action style. Zagadou for Gaya 75’, fresh legs and a more defensive mindset to see this game out. Philipp for Dybala 80’, fresh legs and a workhorse up front.

If Drawing: Tielemans for Zinchenko 70’, more powerful creative player. Brandt on for Lemar 80’, fresh threat. Abraham for Savic 105’, more natural poacher to play on their defences tiredness.

If Losing: Philipp and Abraham for Skriniar and Zinchenko 60’, 4-2-3-1 with Lemar, Dybala, Philipp in behind Abraham who will be able to get in the box and play as the poacher. Brandt for Savic 70’, 4-1-4-1.

If Pens:

1st Paulo Dybala
2nd Julien Brandt
3rd Maxi Philipp
4th Jose Gaya
5th Fabinho
6th Thomas Lemar
7th Youri Tielemans
8th Andreas Christensen
9th Thibaut Courtois
10th Ricardo Pereira

Alisson not Lloris sorry

League Cup Final
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v Chelsea

Injuries: Stephens, Jorginho, Koscielny, Boga

------------------ K Navas
------ Savic - Mascherano - Monreal
Juanfran - Gundogan - N'Zonzi - Hector
--------- Pastore -------- Eriksen
--------------- Aubameyang

Subs: Begovic, Evans, Bernat, Fred, Sigurdsson, Musonda, Immobile

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

Cup Final day, I've got my best suit on, my lucky pants underneath, and a good feeling that the mighty Wolves are going to upset the applecart and take home the first silverware of the season!

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, Leno in goal, Savic, Mascherano and Monreal in the back three, Juanfran and Hector as wingbacks, N'Zonzi and Gundogan anchoring the midfield, with Pastore and Eriksen 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.

Leno - 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.

Savic/Mascherano/Monreal - Savic and Monreal to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Mascherano 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 Pastore and Eriksen 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 N'Zonzi/Gundogan. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

N'Zonzi/Gundogan - Gundogan playing the box to box role, assist N'Zonzi in dealing with the Chelsea attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM N'Zonzi stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession N'Zonzi 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.

Pastore/Eriksen - 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 N'Zonzi/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 Pastore and Eriksen on occasion. Try and link with those two to create opportunities.

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

Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Pastore off, Fred on. 5-3-1-1, wingbacks to fullback, Fred in midfield alongside Gundogan and N'Zonzi, Eriksen behind Aubameyang.

If drawing: Pastore off, Immobile on. Change to 3-4-1-2, Eriksen behind Aubameyang and Immobile, push for the winner.

If losing: Mascherano, N'Zonzi and Hector off, Musonda, Sigurdsson and Immobile on. 3-1-4-2, Juanfran - Savic - Monreal, Gundogan the playmaker, Musonda - Pastore - Eriksen - Sigurdsson behind Aubameyang and Immobile upfront. Push for goals.