SOTON vs Man City
--------------------------------------Onana-----------------------
----------Upamecano----------Dias---------Fofana---------------------
---------------------------------------Ndidi------------------------------------
-----------------------Valverde-----------Odegaard------------------------
Adama---------------------------------------------------------------Pulisic
--------------------------Jovic------------Rashford----------------------------
Subs - Ramsdale, Dest, Demiral, Camavinga, Szoboszlai, Reinier, Bailey
CAPTAIN - UPAMECANO
CK'S - ØDEGAARD
FK'S - ØDEGAARD
PENALTIES - RASHFORD
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't 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
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. Upamecano and Fofana will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to close down the oppo wingers. Dias in the middle will marshall the defence and look to snuff out any attacks from the oppo striker/s. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.
Defence Mid
Ndidi
Ndidi 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.Help out Upamecano and Fofana if they come up against a winger on the wings. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or to the CM's. Also be on the lookout for the runs of Pulisic/Adama and thread dangerous through balls to them.
Centre Mids
Valverde + Ødegaard
Valverde will be playing as a b2b CM today. He will pick the ball up from deep and use his technique and vision to find the runs of our attacking players and thread deadly passes to them. Play quick passes forward and use your agility to outmanoeuvre the oppo players. Play 1 2 quick passes with your teammates and make penetrating runs from deep. When not in possession of the ball I want him to drop deep in central midfield and try and intercept any passes the oppo will make. Shoot if you have a chance to.
Ødegaard will have a similar role to Valverde except he will be given more attacking freedom. I want him to always make runs forward and when the oppo DM has the ball I want him to put pressure on him and close him down so he makes a mistake and we potentially create a goal scoring opportunity. Use your nimbleness and pace to get away from players marking you in the middle and if you find some space shoot. If you see Ndidi and Valverde struggling in the middle being overwhelmed by the oppo then I want you to focus on helping them more defensively in the centre of midfield.
Wingers
Adama + Pulisic
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Pulisic will be looking to cut in from the left and Adama will be looking to get to the byline and to whip some balls in to the area. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of your teammates close to you and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. Pulisic will be allowed cut in onto your stronger foot, don't be afraid to shoot from range as you have the ability to score from long range. If there is no space to do so then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Jovic to get his head on. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack. If we get to the byline with either of the wingers I want them to either whip in a low ball across the face of the net for our strikers to poke home or pull the ball back to just outside the box for Valverde/Ødegaard to get a shot in.
Strikers
Marcus Rashford MBE
Rashford is a striker that has the deadly combination of pace and finishing. He will look to use his pace to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to fund spaces in the oppo defence.
Luka Jovic
Jovic will look to use his strength and hold up play to bring others into the game. Try and get in front of the oppo defenders and use your aerial ability to win the header and either pass the header to a teammate or get a shot on goal. Try to make runs off the shoulders of the oppo defence aswell sometimes just to mix it up and give the oppo defenders something else to think about.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Szoboszlai for Ødegaard and Bailey for Adama to bring some more attacking impetus on. Reinier on for Valverde aswell and a small position change in midfield. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
-----------------------------------Onana-----------------------
----------Upamecano----------Dias---------Fofana---------------------
--------------------------------------Ndidi------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bailey---------------Szobo---------Reinier---------------------Pulisic
--------------------------Jovic------------Rashford----------------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Ødegaard and put on Camavinga in DM. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. . Take the wingers off and put on Dest as a wingback who'll offer a lot more defensive stability.
-----------------------------------Onana-----------------------
----------Upamecano----------Dias---------Fofana---------------------
-------------------Camavinga--------------Ndidi------------------------------
Dest------------------------------Valverde--------------------Ait-Nouri
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------Jovic--------Rashford-------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Bailey on for Adama
Szoboszlai on for Ødegaard
Reinier on for Jovic
Fresh legs to bring on.
RED CARD SCENARIOS
Change formation to 351 in all red card scenarios. The wingers will have to help out more in defence aswell.
If my GK gets sent off put on Ramsdale in goal. Take off Jovic.
If any of the CB's get sent off take off Lo Jovic and put on Demiral at CB.
If any of the wingers get sent off put Rashford in the sent off playeys position.
If either Valverde/Ødegaard get sent off just move the remaining CM even more deeper in midfield.
If Ndidi gets sent off move Valverde to DM.
If any of the strikers get sent off leave things how they are.
Newcastle vs PORTSMOUTH
Back to a formation that served us well in the cup, I know it has it’s detractors and gets panned for defensive width, but we’ve tweaked the playing staff and I’m setting my midfield slightly differently so that when Newcastle attack we switch to a flat back four. The main advantage of this formation if the gamble comes off is that the last couple of weeks Ludy has favoured 3-5-2. With his main wide threat coming from wing-backs we don’t feel this exposes us as bad as if he we’re to use flying wingers. Also his weakness is the same as mine, attacks from out-wide, so by putting Ronaldo and Insigne in the space where his wing-backs are or would be it forces his side deeper and relieves the pressure on the back line.
………………………………………Ederson………………………
…………………………Dias………Bonucci………Romagnoli………….
………………………………………….Busquets……………………….
…………………………..Kessie…………………….McKennie……………
Ronaldo……………………………..Eriksen………………………………Insigne
…………………………………………Aguero…………………………………….
Subs: Turati (GK) F.Mendy, Bellerin, Koke, Chiellini, Jiminez, Belotti
Ederson is a super sweeper keeper, he’s quick off his line to clear up any through balls or flick on’s that get past our defence, with the ball it’s about retention, all our centre-backs are comfortable with ball to feet so whoever the free man is can take it, but if it needs to go long then long it shall go.
The back line is about as strong as any defence in this league, Bonucci has been there and done it all a true leader, flanked by Milan captain Romagnoli and the linchpin of city’s resurgence Ruben Dias, yes its not the quickest in terms of legs but they have footballing brains and their collective reading of the game buys them a 5 yards head start. As with Ederson we’re playing possession football today, and whilst I don’t want any passes across the back-line that invite bad luck they can spread it about and pull Newcastle out of position.
Busquets is a stella signing and his role in this side suits his skill-set perfectly. I can not and will not ever accept him as a midfield enforcer like in the halcyon days of our youth but his standing in the game even at 32 is unparalleled very good on the ball and can be trusted to dictate the tempo, he doesn’t need to worry about covering miles, I want him sitting and assessing damage but where he comes into real assistance is when McKennie and Kessie press man and ball, Busquets drops back into the defence – Roma and Dias shuffle wide and we have a back-four, Ludy’s wingers or wingbacks (depending) suddenly have no free run at us. And we cover the spaces. A vital cog in the Pompey machine.
Whilst Busquets brings the experience and know-how we look to Kessie and McKennie to bring the drive and energy, both will go box to box and hunt as a pair. Big strong physical players they’ll look to get at Newcastles midfield, harry them and don’t give them time and freedom to pick a pass, one takes the man one follows the ball, and then for the next pass they role reverse, it’s all about proximity to the opposition ball carrier, we have to get in hard on the geordies first touches. Offensively both have proven they can get in amongst the goals and I expect them to make the runs to break the lines of play and give our #10 more passing angles, but most importantly give him more space, make the run and take the blockers away.
Ronaldo and Insigne will stay high and wide, we’re stretching the pitch today, if ludy goes 4 at the back, then we run the lines, we have no-one over-lapping in this set-up but with 2 marauding Cm’s we can get central overlaps causing confusion. If Ludy goes with a back 5 (wing-backs) then these two angle their runs slightly, it’s all about getting bodies in the box and trying to find space to shoot. Let’s be honest if he can see the goal then it’s in range for Ronaldo. Insigne is a tricky player with a very good centre of balance. Where as Ronaldo can rampage through a defence, Lorenzo can slink through (in a manly way he’s from Naples afterall)
Eriksen comes in to the side as our latest greatest number 10 in the world, a genuine threat from distance and a very good set-piece delivery, he can be a real asset to us, he’ll look to play between the lines today and disrupt Newcastles midfield defensively, by playing a midfield diamond we look to be able to box in newcastles attack and counter press. There should be a numerical advantage in there we just have to exploit the spaces but whilst most sides just have a DM to break up play ours can dictate it, and with Kessie and McKennie going on past Eriksen he should find ample space to weave his magic, if the shots on then take it, you gotta buy a ticket to win a raffle.
Kun Aguero may have his injuries but he’s still ice cold in front of goal, it’s all about delivery and with the entire side geared up to making as many chances for him as possible, from whipped in balls from Insigne, precision dinks through from Eriksen or…..nah we know Ronaldo won’t be assisting
Whilst he looks out-gunned against a back three in reality with this side and these tactics that won’t be the case and we all know he’ll get some chances.
Subs 65 mins winning or drawing
Koke > McKennie fresh legs in the engine
Belotti > Aguero again like for like
Losing 65 mins
Jiminez > Busquets – Raul goes up top alongside Aguero and plays the target man role
Bournemouth v CHELSEA
---------------------------- Oblak -----------------------------
W-Bissaka ----- S.deVrij ------ F.Acerbi ----- Jordi Alba
---------------- F.de Jong ------ Locatelli ------------------
Mbappe ------------------- Ilicic ------------------- Neymar
--------------------------- Haaland ---------------------------
Bounou, Chilwell, Bellingham, Kamara, Havertz, Ferran, Greenwood
We like playing from the back and quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front we do not allow them to play from the back as our front three play quite a high line, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with Locatelli and de Jong ahead of them just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and our midfield will be in and around the half way line, Haaland slightly higher up always on top of the CBs stopping them passing between each other, defend from the front, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.
Nothing like a bit of experience at the back, de Vrij picks up the CF not much gets passed him, Acerbi spare picks up the AM or any other player that's roams into the danger area, if they get away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly, Both comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, both must attack high balls to get the ball away from the opposition big men. Fullbacks keep the wingers quiet, stop their attacks 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. When they attack, only one at a time we cant afford be exposed, they drive down the line in support of the wingers drive on the outside making an extra man. If either get caught up field I want Locatelli OR de Jong to drift to the side with this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. Ilicic also covers by dropping back to fill in the midfield even just to follow any defender that moves up field, Acerbi and de Vrij to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Locatelli sitting back.
Locatelli is our deepest midfielder sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, will at times drop between the 2 Cbs to get the ball, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. de Jong will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defence as best as possible, in possession get it to the front 3/4 but also look for fullbacks as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Our midfield maestro Ilicic central for a is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in an advanced No.10/CF role and look for the de Jong/Locatelli/CB pass. He will drop back at times to pick it up and will look to his dribbling and passing capabilities to get him around players, and into the danger area to unleash a powerful drive, sometimes taking a foul as he is a tricky player to mark. When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front.After the pass he can push wide or central to make that extra man When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart and create space for the front 3. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.
Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders our defenders are superb long ball passers, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Neymar will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Ilicic to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power and pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Haaland who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, especially Ilicic who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain - de Jong
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Ilicic/Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Losing/drawing
65 Mins - Chilwell for Alba, fresh legs, wicked cross on him, Ferran for Ilicic, he goes to RW, Mbappe to LW and Neymar to SS right on Haaland to push them right back
Losing
80 Mins - Chilwell push up to midfield, Mbappe up top with Haaland 3412, Bellingham on for de Jong as well for fresh legs
Drawing -
80 Mins Greenwood for Haaland
Winning -
75 Mins - Kamara for Ilicic, he goes in between def/mid
83 Mins - Havertz for Haaland, play as a false 9
Bournemouth Tactics: League round 15 (Home to Chelsea)
Captain: Ibañez
Vice Captain: Zubeldia
Team:
------------------Simón
Molina--Ibañez—Botman---Olivera
---------------Zubeldia
----------Pessina---Gonçalves
Antony----------------------------Baeza
------------------Suárez
SUBS: Safonov, Aarons, Carmo, Assunção, Guimarães, Sancet, Evanilson
We want to play a neat crisp passing game at high tempo using our obvious pace to punish the opponent. Our formation will be a 4-3-3 that will allow our full backs to join in the attack when necessary and also offer us the flexibility to fall back into a more standard 4-4-2 when under pressure. We need to boss the midfield from the start and control the game with our own tempo. When in possession use the ball well and try and bring our wide men in to play. When chasing the ball press the opponent with urgency and all over the park. Don’t take too many risks and hold onto the ball. With our creativity and pace we will be able to open teams up. Wait for the chances to arise and take them when they come.
Goalkeeper: Simón is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: Zubeldia will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. Pessina and Gonçalves will play just in front of Zubeldia. Pessina will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Gonçalves will be the midfield magician. Clever, elusive and tricky we will look to him for creating the midfield openings with his eye for a pass. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Antony and Baeza will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Gonçalves, Pessina and Suárez in to play. They can vary their attacks by going wide or cutting inside as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Pessina may sit a bit deeper allowing Gonçalves to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF. As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Suárez starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great big old fashioned centre forward. We will look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. An eye for a pass and not afraid to have a go from distance. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his power pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Gonçalves, Baeza or Antony with Ibañez, Botman, Zubeldia and Suárez to offer an aerial threat. Gonçalves and Baeza (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Suárez
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Carmo for Botman, Evanilson for Suárez and Guimarães for Pessina, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 80 minutes) Sancet for Pessina and Evanilson for Antony. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Evanilson and Sancet offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
--------------Zubeldia
Sancet-----Gonçalves----Baeza
---------Suárez---Evanilson
------------------------- Martinez -------------------------
-------- B.Pavard ----- Skriniar ----- P.Torres ---------
Danilo --------- Soucek ------- McGinn -------- Sandro
------------------------- Maddison -------------------------
----------------- A.Silva --------- Watkins ----------------
Lafont, Gosens, Mendes, Coman, Ziyech, Leao, Martial
Up against it this week, but we go in looking to attack and score goals and play with freedom.
When we don't have the ball, we will press high up the pitch, conceding very little space, Maddison will look to steal the ball within the attacking third and hopefully, quickly get it to those ahead of him. We do not give them any time on the ball and our front 2 prevent their defence hanging on to it too long or trying to play form the back as we pressurise them all the time.
If they do get to our half then we have a strong back 3 and double pivot ahead to prevent play through the middle, meaning they will need to push wide, whichever side they attack from tho I want Maddison to push to that side again to close them down and support the wingbacks, lots of pace in the front three to get at players.
When we have the ball it starts from the back moving the ball around between defence and centre midfield until the moment arrives when a pass can be made through to the front line, , there is no rush, if they come pressing we simply move it to the wide areas for them to bomb down the line and look to either cut it back or get a pass into the front three.
Martinez is our sweeper keeper, he always makes himself big, I want him involved with the defence playing out, if he has the ball I want him to find players especially the wingbacks when we are ready to attack
Pavard & Torres, Cover the wingbacks and take the ball out of defence, use there positional sense well as they may be out paced., must do this with confidence, if they lose the ball then all numbers back to cover, if they are being pressurised then a simple pass even back to the keeper and start again, stay wide (depending on what side) to cover wingbacks if they are forward.
Skriniar - He will press the opposition striker, when we lose the ball he needs to be on top of the CF very quickly, he must intercept everything, but he has the experience to do this, don't take any risks as the CF will also be on him so move it quickly when he gets it.
Danilo and Sandro, must work very hard, they have great work rate but this must done for the whole game, get down the line, get the crosses in, two great forwards to aim for, don't worry so much about whats behind you as their is plenty cover, I don't mean forget your defence duties, just play with a bit of freedom, crosses, one-twos, cut backs and all with pace to hurt them.
Although Soucek primary role in front of the defence 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 the No 10/SS is also a main focus, he isn't an out an out DM but he has a lot of grit and determination to his game so stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him. Also very good in front of goal and in the box for set pieces
McGinn has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for the front 3, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running he is expected to do and he does a lot. 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, he also has a mean shot from distance and isn't afraid to have a pop.
Maddison is in a free role I want him to dictate proceedings in the final third, either playing the through ball to the front two or use the wingers, pass in between the lines and give them something to run onto as the drive passed the defender, making late runs into the box and look for any loose ball to have a pop at goal, he, Silva & Watkins are great finishers so look to make late runs into the area and latching onto crosses from wide areas, defending wise, I want him to harass who ever has the ball in that area, get it and move it forward as quickly as possible, also can draw players into him, therefore winning a lot of free kicks
Watkins I want to be making all the runs behind the defence, a tirless worker always making it hard for defenders, I want him to drift wide and pull defenders away, quick and skillfull, look to move out to create an outlet for the wingbacks to use or indeed link with Maddison to get Silva away on goal, he and Silva both fantastic in the air, so while they aim for Watkins, Silva will be making the late runs into the danger area and with a head start look to get up early and attack the crosses coming in.
Silva, must be able to hold up play for others to support, also run the channels, will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is also a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain Skriniar
Pens - A.Silva
Free Kicks - Maddison
Corners - Maddison
Losing -
70 Mins - Ziyech > Danilo, Coman > Sandro, Leoa > Silva, we go more attacking with wingers instead of wingbacks and a new threat up top
Drawing -
76 Mins - Leao > Silva, Gosens > Sandro, Ziyech > Maddison all frsh legs
Winning -
80 Mins - T.Mendes > Silva and into midfield to shore it up, Gosens for Sandro
85 Mins - Martial > Watkins
Southampton v SHEFFIELD UNITED
-----------------------Kelleher
Lamptey, Christensen, T. Silva, Grimaldo
--------------Ampadu, Gallagher
------Mahrez, James, Saint-Maximin
----------------------Suárez
Subs: Dubravka, Vrsaljko, Kjaer, Bernat, Brooks, Verschaeren, Mertens
Captain: Thiago Silva
Free Kicks: James
Penalties: Suárez
Our defensive unit consists of Andreas Christensen and Thiago Silva paired up at centre-back, Tariq Lamptey at right-back and Álex Grimaldo at left-back, with Ethan Ampadu and Conor Gallagher as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Ampadu and Gallagher 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 Gallagher can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Ampadu 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 Gallagher's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Gallagher running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will be dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Ethan Ampadu.
Ampadu 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 Ampadu such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Riyad Mahrez, James Rodríguez and Allan Saint-Maximin as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez 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 Ampadu or Gallagher, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Lamptey and Grimaldo can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Ampadu and Gallagher can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Riyad Mahrez and Allan Saint-Maximin, who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box.
James Rodríguez, our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders. James 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 with his quick flicks and one-touch passing, will combine exceptionally well with Mahrez, Saint-Maximin & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.
Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Mahrez, James & Saint-Maximin to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.
Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suárez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.
All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.
Subs on 75 mins
Brooks on for Mahrez and Mertens on for Saint-Maximin
Double substitution - Lots of fresh pace and sublime dribbling skills in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line.
Attacking direct 3-4-3
At home, we go with a side that is firstly solid and strong defensively, and fit to play an explosive and direct attacking football. A front 3 means we are able to get Lukaku and Son close to Benzema in a fluid front three. Benzema has fantastic hold up play and ability to have both Lukaku and Son playing off him using their pace to get ay Arsenal.
We will be direct as possible get the front three on the ball and get support up to them. Both wing backs will have freedom to attack, bombing down the wings and crossing for the front 3. We will get the wing backs attacking their full backs at pace, linking up with with the forwards and doubling up on this space at times. Overload them down the wings to create space for Lukaku and Benzema in the box.
The setup gives freedom to our attacking trio and the wingbacks going forward. Tielemans is our defensive midfielder in cm, staying reserved and spreading the play, directing our attacks down the wings.
We defend in a narrow formation, limiting the space for Arsenal to play in. The wingback on the opposite side of play will drop back into defence forming a back four. The wb on the side of play helps the cb on the side of play (cb on side of play acts as fb) defend against the attacking winger and fb.
The defence and midfield press as a unit, ensuring there is no space between the lines for Arsenal attacking mids. When defending, Tirlemans plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area. Ndombele will play ball side of Tielemans and always press the passing lanes.
When we win the ball we attack at pace. Use the wing backs bombing forward linking with the wide forwards to create for Lukaku and Benzema.
The formation also means a free role for Son. Make him impossible to man mark without leavings holes and space for our other attackers to exploit.
——————————— Gulacsi
———— Godfrey — Koulibaly — Lenglet
Hakimi —— Tielemans—— Ndombele —— Digne
—————— Lukaku —————— Son H-M. ————
——————————— Benzema
Subs. Meunier, Gaya, Witsel, Rabiot, Nkunku, Diaby, Carrasco
Defence
When we lose the ball high up the park we always look to win it back straight away, don’t give them a chance to counter. The closest 2/3 players press. Allowing others to get back into position behind the ball.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
When the opposition get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation set out above. Our defence have fantastic pace up against their forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Attack
We attack quickly when we win the ball aiming our attacks down the wings. If the counter is not on we look to get the wing backs and wide forwards doubling up on their fbs.
The back 3 are all comfortable on the ball and look to play out, helping us move the ball quickly having a strong base.
Benzema up top plays his natural game, offering a forward we can go longer too, for Son and Lukaku to play off, linking the play and most importantly being in the box to be the difference maker and get the goals.
Subs.
If winning after 72 bring on Nkunku for Benzema. Lukaku to cf. Fresh legs in midfield. More energy in Cm.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Gaya for Digne. Fresh pace.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Rabiot for Ndombele. Fresh legs in important position
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Nkunku for Godfrey. 4-4-2.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Diaby for Benzema. Diaby lm, Son up top.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Nkunku for Gofrey. 4-4-2.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Diaby for Benzema.
Newcastle 4-2-3-1
————————— ter Stegen
Trent — Hummels — Evans — Shaw
————— Fabinho —— Kroos
Kulu ————— Modric ———— Oyarzabal
———————— Immobile
SUBS: Robbo, Barella, Ings, Jota, Llorente, Goretzka, Henderson
Captain: Kroos
Set piece: Trent
Penalties: Immobile
We have to dominate the middle. We will have a lot of creativity on the ball today in midfield today with a double pivot. It is up to us to dominate the ball and create the amount of chances needed to win the game by playing on the front foot. Our midfielders are very good at carrying the ball breaking the lines in the process. I reckon if I can gain control of the middle of the pitch I have a chance of blowing them off the park with our players playing their natural game. The double pivot will be key today. I expect that when we have the ball we picks their head up and find a first time ball to our wide forwards. With the movement of my front four I hope to invite their defenders into making rash decisions. All my front three players have goals in them. We need the win today to give us the momentum needed to help power us into the champions league places.
Defending
In terms of defending, it is important that we are aware of the threats posed by my team having the lions share of possession. Tino will get chances on the counter, and while I believe that my team will pin them back for most of the match there are still going to be windows of opportunity of them when they have a spell of possession and on the counter. His attack can be dangerous on the counter which can present an immense danger if not careful. In our case it is important that we are always aware of the possibility of that counter. I consider strikers and wingers the biggest threats, so when we are attacking in their third our DM will sit close to our centre halves making sure we are not too exposed. Special mention to their striker, he'll take some handling, and we know that our CBs can take turns in handling him. We will also have our full backs closely watch wide players, making sure not to get sucked into the middle and let the midfielders deal with anyone cutting inside. His wide players will likely be back defending anyway but their pace will carry them forwards very quickly. Once they show signs of counter attacking our full backs will fly back to stop them.
To win the ball back, we will sit off them mostly and only press them around our box. Only when they have all of our players pressed back in our third as they inevitably will do at some stage. Giving them lots of time on the ball. I will expect everyone in the back six to be involved in that. Our wide players will get up and down the pitch all match if they need to. If we happen to get pressured back into our own third we will stop the pressuring but go very compact instead, and only squeeze spaced out wide to prevent crosses being thrown in. We wait it out and attack again.
The block of four of CBs and CM/DM will form a four man block around their striker(s) when out of possession. Midfield will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line. AM will come back in the defending phase to help win the ball back with the two midfielders or receive the ball to launch a quick attack when they lose the ball.
Set piece defending is man to man, his centre halves will need to be watched carefully by our centre halves.
Attacking
We shift our shape as soon as we get on the ball becoming a lop sided back three. The LB will tuck in, entire defense shifting a wee bit to the right, and the right back playing as a right winger as he’s good at crossing. Midfield two stay as they are, the right winger will tuck into the space behind the striker sharing the space with the other AM. Essentially becoming a 3-2-4-1. The two in the middle will be there to mainly help us recycle the ball efficiently. It will be a staggered pivot to help provide progression.
Hummels Evans Shaw
Fabinho Kroos
Trent Kulu Modric Oyar
Immobile
The two directly behind the striker will be targeted with direct passes in halfspaces. The right back turned right winger and the left winger will provide offensive width.
Subs
Winning
75 - We will need to lock the game down and close it off while giving the midfield some energy. We will bring on Goretzka for Modric and have him in midfield in a 4-3-3.
75 - Kulu’s legs may tire towards the end of the game so we bring on Llorente in his place to help chase down balls.
80 - Jota for Oyar, same reason as above.
Drawing/Losing
65 - Clearly we need to change it up a bit, therefore we take off Modric and bring on Llorente to provide more penetration in attacking mid
75 - If we're still not winning, we bring on Goretzka for Fabinho, he'll sit at the base of midfield providing more driving force while being solid and holding the midfield together.
85 - We will bring on Ings on for Kulu and go 442 with Llorente moving to the right, two strikers up front (Ings Immobile) and Kroos Goretzka in the middle.
If we get into a winning position after any of the drawing/losing subs, we go 4-4-2 to make sure that we have two banks of four to effectively defend the lead, while playing on the counter attack.
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
Attacking 4-3-3
At home we play an attacking 4-3-3 to dominate possession, best form of defence is them not having the ball. Push the front three high up the pitch, our defence taking a high line for our possession play, don’t let the opposition out.
As you’d expect with a possession gameplan we will be patient in the first two thirds of the park, this means we will move the ball quickly and at pace but will not force the play, let them chase us tiring them physically and mentally. Fernandes is the exception as we give him freedom to play more direct balls from deeper areas.
In the final third we give all players freedom to use their quality to create and produce magic to open up the opposition.
Up top we go with a front 3 full of pace, the wingers stay high and wide in possession, stretching Wolves defence and setting the side up perfectly for the possession play. In front of the defence Luiz and Thiago’s are the perfect two for the possession, play with Fernandes playing an Iniesta role as attacking Cm with freedom to drift. Everyone in their best position, in a formation and system that suits everyone playing their natural game.
Both cbs are strong defensively, with great physicality. Luiz in front offering a strong, athletic dm presence. The rest of the midfield and attackers are tasked with pressing the ball, Thiago offers intelligence in midfield a master at pressing the space, Fernandes brings energy and intensity. The front three also hard working and will press in high areas and win the ball back quickly.
The central trio have the quality to dominate possession with the cbs behind them. We have a front three full of pace, looking to stretch the opposition and create space for our midfielders to exploit.
In defence Luiz drops behind the other two cms who press the play as the trio narrow, similarly in attack Luiz stays deepest but the trio do not play so narrow. We have a defence full of pace and great energy in front so play a reasonably high line, helping us press Wolves in high areas, and aiding distribution out from the back line.
Laporte the main man marker as he is the stronger physically and can dominate in the air next to Marquinhos who is free to use his reading of the game and pace to sweep up. If they go with two up top, both cbs man mark, and we always keep one fb back. In midfield, the trio narrow in front with the cm opposite play dropping behind, allowing the other two to press with cover. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play. Win the ball back from Wolves quickly before they can get anywhere.
Quick passing and moving to find space in between the opposition lines. Using the pace of our wide forwards and fbs (one bombs forward at a time) to create space as we push forward.
We have a cm duo who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid front three, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.
As we move forward we get quick one twos in the opposition half. With this fluid front three, Thiago supports creating and linking the play, Fernandes gets in and around the box looking for the final ball or shooting.
Positional structure, in addition to our technical players will be key to our quick passing possession gameplan going forward. Our approach in build up is to play a flexible asymmetric shape, giving bodies on different lines to increase the options we have in possession, and to create gaps in the opposition, and space for our players.
————————————— Allison———————————
Carvajal ——Marquinhos —— Laporte —— D.Alaba
————————————— D.Luiz————————————
————————- Thiago.A —— B.Fernandes —————
—————————————————————————————
Sterling ——————— L.Martinez ————— S.Mane
Subs. Henderson, Theo.H, Mount, Felix, Zaha, Jesus, Osimhen
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and press them high up the park.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
As Wolves advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-3-2. Winger on the side of play drops deep and Luiz drops behind the other two cms pressing the space behind the two cms pressing the ball, sweeping up danger behind them and in front of the defence.
Lautaro and the remaining wide forward in the space in between the opposition defence and midfield, and either side of their dm. This will make it difficult for their to dm to circulate possession back to their defence.
The wide man on the side of play that drops and the two cms (Thiago and Fernandes) are the trio pressing the ball, and look to force Wolves backwards. With the two forwards left forward this is where we look to press the opposition into mistakes and win the ball in high areas. With pace to join the attack quickly and overload Wolves.
When Wolves get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Jesus for Lautaro. More pace up top.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Mount for Fernandes. Strong defensively and hard working, fresh energy in Cm.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Zaha for Sterling. More fresh pace.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Jesus for Sterling and and Theo for Alaba. More direct wide forward, more attacking fb on left.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Mount for Luiz. Thiago to dm.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Mount for Luiz. Thiago to dm.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Felix for Carvajal. 3-6-1.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Osimhen for Bruno. Big man up top. 3-5-2.
-----------------------Neuer
---------Soyuncu---White----Hermoso
Castagne--------------------------------Guerreiro
------------------SMS-------Foden
-------Chiesa--------Kane-------Ocampos
Pope
Walker
Brozovic
Alberto
Barnes
Musah
Malen
An emalgamation of a 3-4-2 and a 5-4-1 operating today, as we look to combine playing attacking, progressive football, whilst also countering the obvious threats that Tottenham possess. A three at the back gives us both stable footing for our quick possession style, whilst also allowing us extra bodies back to try and snuff out their threats. We have plenty of energy in the wide areas to try and successfully run the line, and the two in midfield both ooze quality and ability, whilst also being hard working in their own right. These attributes play to the strengths of the system we have adopted, a high intensity press across the pitch when the opposition has possession (adopting a slightly rigid 5-4-1 formation), and breaking quickly, with fluid movement, and quick passing (transitioning to a 3-4-3) should we regain possession. Unlike recent weeks, we intend to push wide and stretch the pitch, as opposed to flooding and congesting the midfield. This is due to the quality we possess in the wide areas.
Defensively, we have three players both comfortable on the ball and willing to get stuck in, with levels of physicality to back that up. I have opted for Ben White in the centre of the back three due to his experience stepping up into a holding midfield position, and believe that he can contribute in this way when we take possession, providing another body in the centre of the pitch. Soyuncu and Hermoso are on their natural sides, benefitting them. In terms of movement of the ball, I want to see it quickly spread into the wide areas, namely to the respective FB, and cross field balls are also acceptable, looking to open up the play. SMS will also drop off the midfield pivot, dropping deeper to offer another outlet, and then trying to drive the ball forward from this position, meaning that our CBs avoid carrying the ball forward excessive distances, and can keep their shape and position. Castagne and Guerreiro will stick in their wide positions, dropping into conventional FB roles when we are off the ball, but pushing forward as bombarding WBs when we hold possession. They should do this both on and off the ball to provide extra options in the attacking areas. When we lose possession, the back five should be adopted, with the FBs tucking inside, to make a rigid backline. The midfield (including wingers) should drop deep, making it hard to play through the bodies we pack behind the ball, inviting the pressure, and then trying to quickly break. The press we put on the possession will be deeper, operating in the first and middle third, so as not to disrupt the shape we adopt.
When the ball progresses up the field, Foden should sit off Kane, with Chiesa and Ocampos holding slightly inside. Kane is the focal point, and we play through him, however, it is likely that the opposition will man mark Kane, so it is important that we use him to provide space across the third, drawing CBs away from their positions, and allowing our inside forwards to exploit the space in behind. The WBs will look to run the touchline, adding to our width, and trying to make the most of space vacated by FBs tracking the wide attackers. If the FBs don’t track, then the wide attackers should have more space to work their magic. Both players are direct, quick, and tricky, and I want to see driving runs both at the defence and in behind it. SMS operates mainly as an 8 today, being the dynamic, energetic force in the midfield pivot. I want to see fewer runs into the box, and more runs across the line, supporting the wider players with a more central option. However, spreading the play wide and attacking through these areas is key to our gameplan. If we attack quickly, we hope to exploit any evidence of a high line, with the players capable of getting in behind and making a nuisance. A natural part of threat from wide areas are balls into the box, and in Kane we have a striker capable of competing physically, both aerially and on the ground, and an instinctive finisher. I don’t want to see Kane running the channels himself, sticking between the posts to make the most threat. Kane will drop off when off the ball, towards the centre circle, which is, roughly speaking, where our press should engage. Kane is the front of our midfield hymen, protecting the backline in these key areas.
Substitutions
If winning
Start by having the Fbs less agressively attacking, and sitting slightly deeper.
Brozovic on for SMS 70 mins
Fresh legs in a thankless position, and a slightly more reserved option more used to shielding the defence.
Musah and Barnes on for Foden and Chiesa 77 mins
Musah a less adventurous player than Foden, operating as a deep B2B player alongside Brozovic, who sits as a 4. Barnes gives us fresh legs on the left, looking to help hit opponents on the counter as they mount pressure. If one substitute used for red card then prioritise Musah on for Foden.
If losing/drawing
Brozovic on for White 70 mins
Change to a 4-3-3, with Brozovic operating as a recognised 4 sitting deeper.
Malen on for SMS 75 mins
Change to a 4-4-2, with Malen playing just off Kane in the attacking two.
Red Card Substitutions
May change shape to a 4-3-2 in most circumstances. Assume Ocampos drops into midfield three unless otherwise stated.
Neuer – Pope on for White. 4-3-2.
Castagne – Walker on for White. 4-3-2
Soyuncu, White, and Hermose – Change to 4-3-2
Guerreiro – Walker on for White. Castagne over to LB. 4-3-2.
SMS – Brozovic on for White. 4-3-2.
Foden – Alberto on for White. 4-3-2.
Chiesa – Malen on for White. 4-3-2.
Ocampos – Brozovic on for White. 4-3-2.
Kane – Malen on for White. 4-3-2.
SOTON vs Sheffield United
-----------------------------------Ramsdale-----------------------
----------Upamecano----------Demiral---------Fofana------------------
---------------------------------------Ndidi------------------------------------
-----------------------Valverde-----------Lo Celso------------------------
Bailey---------------------------------------------------------------Pulisic
--------------------------Jovic------------Rashford----------------------------
Subs - Dest, Ait-Nouri, Camavinga, Szoboszlai, Reinier, Richarlison
CAPTAIN - UPAMECANO
CK'S - LO CELSO
FK'S - LO CELSO
PENALTIES - RASHFORD
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't 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
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. Upamecano and Fofana will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to close down the oppo wingers. Demiral in the middle will marshall the defence and look to snuff out any attacks from the oppo striker/s. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.
Defence Mid
Ndidi
Ndidi 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.Help out Upamecano and Fofana if they come up against a winger on the wings. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or to the CM's. Also be on the lookout for the runs of Pulisic/Adama and thread dangerous through balls to them.
Centre Mids
Valverde + Lo Celso
Valverde will be playing as a b2b CM today. He will pick the ball up from deep and use his technique and vision to find the runs of our attacking players and thread deadly passes to them. Play quick passes forward and use your agility to outmanoeuvre the oppo players. Play 1 2 quick passes with your teammates and make penetrating runs from deep. When not in possession of the ball I want him to drop deep in central midfield and try and intercept any passes the oppo will make. Shoot if you have a chance to.
Lo Celso will have a similar role to Valverde except he will be given more attacking freedom. I want him to always make runs forward and when the oppo DM has the ball I want him to put pressure on him and close him down so he makes a mistake and we potentially create a goal scoring opportunity. Use your nimbleness and pace to get away from players marking you in the middle and if you find some space shoot. If you see Ndidi and Valverde struggling in the middle being overwhelmed by the oppo then I want you to focus on helping them more defensively in the centre of midfield.
Wingers
Bailey + Pulisic
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Pulisic will be looking to cut in from the left and Adama will be looking to do similar by cutting in from the right, and to either open up space to shoot or to pass infield to their teammates. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of your teammates close to you and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. If there is no space to cut in then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Jovic to get his head on. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack. If we get to the byline with either of the wingers I want them to either whip in a low ball across the face of the net for our strikers to poke home or pull the ball back to just outside the box for Valverde/Lo Celso to get a shot in.
Strikers
Marcus Rashford MBE
Rashford is a striker that has the deadly combination of pace and finishing. He will look to use his pace to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to fund spaces in the oppo defence.
Luka Jovic
Jovic will look to use his strength and hold up play to bring others into the game. Try and get in front of the oppo defenders and use your aerial ability to win the header and either pass the header to a teammate or get a shot on goal. Try to make runs off the shoulders of the oppo defence aswell sometimes just to mix it up and give the oppo defenders something else to think about.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Szoboszlai for Lo Celso and Adama for Bailey to bring some more attacking impetus on. Reinier on for Valverde aswell and a small position change in midfield. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
-----------------------------------Ramsdale-----------------------
----------Upamecano----------Demiral---------Fofana-----------------
--------------------------------------Ndidi------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adama------------------Szobo---------Reinier-------------------Pulisic
--------------------------Jovic------------Rashford----------------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Lo Celso and put on Camavinga in DM. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. . Take the wingers off and put on Dest and Sit Nouri as wingbacks who'll offer a lot more defensive stability.
-----------------------------------Ramsdale-----------------------
----------Upamecano-------Demiral---------Fofana----------------
-------------------Camavinga--------------Ndidi------------------------------
Dest------------------------------Valverde--------------------Ait-Nouri
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------Jovic--------Rashford-------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Adama on for Bailey
Szoboszlai on for Pulisic
Reinier on for Jovic
Fresh legs to bring on.
--------------------- Mendy --------------------
Cancelo --- De Ligt --- Ramos --- Reguilon
------------------- Casemiro ------------------
---------- De Bruyne --- B.Silva -------------
J.Sancho ------ Griezmann ------ E.Hazard
Subs:
Sanchez, Emerson, Ake, Aouar, Fabian, Dybala, Morata
Captain: Ramos
Free Kicks: De Bruyne
Penalties: De Bruyne
Corners: Wingers
Tactics:
After a busy week in the transfer market the Spurs faithful have had more than just a North London Derby victory to celebrate as we welcome two big name signings.
There's a real buzz around the club at the moment and the arrival of none other than Paulo Dybala and Bernardo Silva only serve to increase the belief that this current crop of players can achieve special things.
With the squad arguably at the strongest it's ever been competition for places is fierce which ensures everyone remains at the top of their game. In today's match up B.Silva gets the nod from the start linking up with his partner in crime KDB in AM whilst Dybala will be looking to prove his worth from the bench as he looks to impress.
We know Lubo will have been doing his homework prior to the game however we aim to catch him off guard as we switch from our usual 4-2-3-1 to an attacking 4-3-3. High press, twin AMs, a front three, it has all the ingredients for beautiful free flowing attacking football. As always we aim to put on a show and go for goals!
Defence:
We seem to be up against top attackers every week and this game will be no different as they likely go with their main man Kane up top. We aim to limit his threat by starving him of the ball, our lineup is one that can dominate possession and for all his quality we know that Kane can cut a frustrated figure when he doesn't see the ball and has a tendency to drop deeper and deeper, limiting his effectiveness in attack.
When he does have ball we have the perfect man for the job, step forward the master of the dark arts himself Sergio Ramos. Strong, aggressive and one of the best readers of the game out there we want him to man mark. De Ligt will act as cover, either picking up their other CF or sweeping up and covering in behind. The Dutchman sweeping up from the back and immediately looking to get us on the counter with his fantastic vision and passing.
At fullback we have our superb Iberian greyhounds, pace to burn and they can run all day. As usual stick tight to their wingers and don't give them an inch. When in possession both Cancelo and Reguilon have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third. When they are in possession we sit deep, limiting the space in behind and drawing them further up the field creating space for us to hit them on the counter.
Midfield:
Casemiro will be our holding player in the middle. An all action player we rely on his fantastic tenacity and high level work rate to break up the opposition play, winning back possession and setting us up on the counter as we look to get the ball into our creative players as quickly as possible. He’ll pick up their most advanced AM and cut out their supply line. He’s also a fantastic passer which will be key in winning the midfield battle and ball retention.
Further up the field is where things get really exciting as we go with twin AM's and creators in chief De Bruyne and B.Silva. We look to get them on the ball as much as possible. Both fantastic engines and their off the ball work will contribute to shutting down the opposition and winning back possession however it is in the final third we expect them to shine. Playing with twin AM’s we will create real problems to their DM. No idea how Leeds line up these days however the loss of Partey may well leave them vulnerable in this area and in KDB and B.Silva we have the perfect players to exploit any weakness.
It will be a case of pick your poison with both players offering fantastic vision and a killer through ball as we look for the fantastic movement of our front three who will be consistently be looking to get in behind.
Both KDB and Bernardo are also encouraged to go for goal direct. KDB in particular has a fantastic strike from distance whilst Bernardo is more than capable of dribbling past players and firing off a strike himself.
Forwards:
In attack we go for goals. Sancho and Hazard play high up the field, a quick look at their injuries suggest they'll be missing defensive lynchpin Hernandez and we look to exploit any weaknesses in their backline.
We want them to really press up high, forcing the opposition back which creates space for our AM’s to exploit. Both wingers are deadly in one on one's and we encourage them to go at the opposition and go for goal.
A key to our attack will revolve around the link up play of De Bruyne, B.Silva & Griezmann. We want Griezzy to mix up his play, drop deep pulling their CB with you whilst also looking to play on the shoulder of the last man. A man in fine form we feel he has the perfect link up play for this role and could also see plenty of chances fall his way.
With an attack of KDB, B.Silva, Sancho, Hazard & Griezmann we feel we have the tools to outgun the opposition and with Dybala lurking in the background, we really do have an attack firing on all cylinders.
If winning:
75 mins: B.Silva & Hazard off, Ake & Aouar on. Shut up shop time as we move to 5-4-1 to see out the win.
80 mins: Griezmann off, Dybala on. Give the new man a chance to shine against tiring legs.
If drawing/losing:
75 mins: B.Silva & Reguilon off, Dybala & Morata on. We pile on the pressure as we switch to 3-4-3. Griezmann & Dybala playing either side of Morata in a deadly front three.
Red card scenario:
In all scenario’s we revert to a 4-4-1 formation. B.Silva will be replaced with one of the below whilst our wingers drop back in a 4 man midfield. Little change from a tactical perspective as we form a tight unit and pick off the opposition on the break as they commit men forward.
-------------------- Mendy --------------------
Cancelo --- De Ligt -- Ramos --- Reguilon
Sancho - Casemiro -- De Bruyne - Hazard
----------------- Griezmann -----------------
GK – Sanchez
FB – Emerson
CB - N.Ake
CM – Aouar
WG/ST – Dybala
City vs PORTSMOUTH
Tough game this against the Citizens in their own back yard, already had a scally offer to look after the team coach, yea I know I know, I thought it was a scouse thing to, but it seems their Lancastrian cousins are as bad.
Hard to call how Rof the master tactician will line up today but it’s the cup and we’re taking it seriously with our strongest side (allowing for injuries) and a “normal-ish” formation.
Possession based football, doesn’t have to be quick paced, we’re more than capable of holding onto the ball and taking the sting out of this City side. We have a clinical attack and we know that chances will arrive, we have the man-power to put these chances away and keep the underdog story going.
……………………………………Ederson…………………………..
Bellerin……………….Dias………………Romagnoli…..……Hysaj
……………………………………Busquets………………………………..
…………………………..Kessie…………Koke……………………
…………………Ronaldo………………………….Insigne……………..
……………………………………Belotti……………………………….
Subs: Turati (GK), Bonucci, Chiellini, Eriksen, Zielinski, Aguero, Jiminez
The 4-3-2-1 allows to keep this central-core strength, gives us the opportunity to control possession and gives us the creative freedom to get bodies into City’s box and get us the goals we need to progress to the next round.
Ederson is a genuine world class keeper, big strong and athletic, quick off his line, but the one skill that is useful to us is his distribution, he’s good at picking a pass and that will be used today to keep hold of the ball and control the game.
People say the Diamond is too narrow, but these people need to watch the Milan side with Cafu and Zambrotta to see that the full-backs have ample opportunity to get forward and create that width, Bellerin and Hysaj will both go, doesn’t matter which side we’re attacking from as their supporting run will take a defensive runner away and give us more space. Get to the bye-line and bang some crosses in. Defensively just be sensible, Don’t dive in, show the man the line – if you do dive in atleast play the man. Slow the game down and give us chance to reset.
Dias and Romagnoli are a top quality pairing, they go zonal today not sure if Rof sticks to the side that played mid-week if that’s the case we know we’re in for a physical battle but these two can deal with that, in possession again keep it simple there’s always an option in our side to take the ball.
Busquets, is there a better defensive midfielder in the world than he? He’ll sit in front of the back-line and cut the threat off at source – perfect captain material and will marshall the players around him, when we have the ball he’ll move up a bit but never too high up as to be caught out, always been a comfortable player in possession and he’ll just recycle it. He allows the Full-backs to really push on and because he’s sitting deep he can fill in at either flank whilst our FB’s retreat.
Kessie is a machine and will take the battle to City’s midfielders, he’s like a prime Kante but with goals in his game, he’ll go box to box. Very comfortable with the ball at his feet he’ll drive the ball on looking to turn the City midfield and get at their defence, defensively he’ll harry the man on the ball, getting on his touch and trying to force the errors early.
Koke is playing as the Regista – everything will go through him and with Busquets just behind him they are more than capable of passing the ball about, probing City’s defensive set-up and looking to spring a quick change through the gears to exploit the gaps we’ve created in their defence. Defensively, Koke is more than a Pirlo type Regista, he’s mobile and hard working, he’ll drop off a few yards and join up with Busquets as we create a 2 man shield. Both Busquets and Koke work in tandem with their CB – The CM tries to get in front of the striker and the CB gets close to the back, like a second shadow – this gives Benz/Lukaku no time to bring the ball down in a composed manner, we all know Lukaku has never had a first touch, granted his second is often a goal.
Insigne is the number 10, small, quick and a great low centre of balance (nice way of saying short no?) will look to play between the lines – the centre of the pitch will be congested especially if City go 3-5-2 but he’ll have the freedom to drift wide and try to find that bit more space to operate in, dropping deep to collect from the midfielders, and then allowing Kessie to surge past him will also give him a bit more space to operate in.
Belotti – One criticism I hear about my strike-force is that they’re not always the hardest working, Belotti comes in, to replace Aguero, he gives us a more physical figurehead and an increased work-rate without lessening our ability to score goals, he very much will be the central striker, pinning atleast one of the centre-backs in the centre of the goal to keep a watchful eye, defensively he’ll harry the defenders making them rush passes and try to create turnover in a dangerous spot.
Ronaldo is the archetypal inside forward, he like Insigne is given a free role, but where as Lorenzo is a play-maker, Cristiano is very much a finisher (he’s very much not on the wing) we match him up against the LCB of City, run the diagonals and try to find some spaces, use Belotti as a spring board, play It into him and then move back into space.
Subs 65 mins regardless
Chiellini and Bonucci > Dias and Romagnoli – like for like, a physical battle takes it out of the legs so this is a freshen up.
Aguero > Belotti. Like for like, Aguero finding gaps in a tiring defence will be a murder.
Bournemouth (4-3-3) FA Cup Quarter Finals
Captain: Ibañez
Vice-Captain: Simón
-----------------Simón
Molina--Ibañez--Araújo----Olivera
-------Guimarães----Pessina
---------------Gonçalves
Antony--------------------------Suárez
------------------Núñez
SUBS: Maximiano, Aarons, Carmo, Assunção, Azate, Sancet, Paulo
SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Guimarães) who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (Pessina). In front of them Gonçalves will operate as the link between midfield and attack. This I feel will give us a better balanced midfield and while being absolutely defensively sound with 2 ‘sitting’ Pessina will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Gonçalves and attack. I think this set-up lets us link up quickly with our attack while at the same time that little bit of extra cautiousness means it will be easy for us to close the door in midfield with all 3 players as comfortable sitting and breaking up attacks if necessary.
We want to play a nice tidy and crisp passing game. Our aim is to move the ball forward as quickly and as effectively as possible. When we have the ball we will use it wisely and when we don’t have the ball then we will press our opponents all over the park with high urgency to win it back. We want to keep the ball on the deck and attack as a team and equally as important defend as a team. This team is bursting with pace. We will utilise that to our advantage and make the pitch wide and use our flying wingers to cause all sorts of mayhem. It will also be a tool that we use to hit opponents on the counter where we know we can out pace any team.
Goalkeeper: Simón is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: We will operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Guimarães). He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Pessina). He has a more conservative role this week and while being a little more constrained than normal he will still have the opportunity to bomb forward when the time is right. They will both have to put a defensive shift in and both are very strong in the tackle. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition. In front of them Gonçalves will operate as the link between midfield and attack.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Antony and Suárez will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Gonçalves, Pessina and Núñez in to play. They can vary their attacks as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Pessina may sit a bit deeper allowing Gonçalves to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF.
As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Núñez starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great playing off the shoulder of the last man he is deadly in and around the box. A bag of energy and very strong we will also look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his lightning pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Gonçalves, Suárez or Antony with Ibañez, Araújo, Guimarães and Núñez to offer an aerial threat. Gonçalves and Suárez (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Substitutions: (75 mins) If winning (and comfortable) then 3 like for like subs – Carmo for Ibañez, Assunção for Guimarães and Paulo for Núñez.
If losing (70 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Pessina with Paulo and Antony with Sancet. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
------------Guimarães
Sancet---Gonçalves---Suárez
--------Paulo -----Núñez
Attacking 4-2-3-1
In the cup, we play an attacking 4-2-3-1 to attack down the wings and giving the front four freedom. Push the front four high up the pitch, our defence taking a high line to squeeze up the play, don’t let the opposition out.
Quick direct attacking play. We get the full backs bombing forward on both sides, Neves and Rodri stay relatively deep offering cover.
It’s the cup so we give all players freedom to use their quality to create and produce magic to open up the opposition.
Up top we go with a front 3 full of pace, the wingers stay high and wide in possession, stretching defence and setting the side up perfectly to give Bruno freedom. In front of the defence Rodri and Neves offer a solid mix and are perfect for spreading the play. Fernandes playing in a free role as the number 10, getting in the hole, and in between the Ârśē players. Everyone in their favourite position, making sure we’re on top. Get all over them. In a formation and system that suits everyone playing their natural game.
Both cbs are strong defensively, with great physicality. Rodri in front offering a strong, athletic dm presence. The rest of the midfield and attackers are tasked with pressing the ball, Neves offers intelligence in midfield a master at pressing the space, Fernandes brings energy and intensity. The front three also hard working and will press in high areas and win the ball back quickly.
The central trio have the quality to dominate possession with the cbs behind them. We have a front three full of pace, looking to stretch the opposition and create space for our midfielders to exploit.
In defence the dms narrow to the side of play, similarly in attack Rodri stays deepest but the duo do not play so narrow. We have a defence full of pace and great energy in front so play a reasonably high line, helping us press Arsenal in high areas, and aiding distribution out from the back line.
Laporte the main man marker as he is the stronger physically and can dominate in the air next to Marquinhos who is free to use his reading of the game and pace to sweep up. If they go with two up top, both cbs man mark, and we always keep one fb back. In midfield, the trio narrow in front with the cm opposite play dropping behind, allowing the other two to press with cover. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play. Win the ball back from Arsenal quickly before they can get anywhere.
Quick passing and moving to find space in between the opposition lines. Using the pace of our wide forwards and fbs (one bombs forward at a time) to create space as we push forward.
We have a cm duo who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid front three, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.
As we move forward we get quick one twos in the opposition half. With this fluid front three, Neves supports creating and linking the play, Fernandes gets in and around the box looking for the final ball or shooting.
Positional structure, in addition to our technical players will be key to our quick passing possession gameplan going forward. Our approach in build up is to play a flexible asymmetric shape, giving bodies on different lines to increase the options we have in possession, and to create gaps in the opposition, and space for our players.
—————————————- Allison ———————————
Carvajal ——Marquinhos —— Laporte —— Angelino
——————————— Rodri —— Neves—————————
—————————————————————————————
Sterling ——————— B.Fernandes ———— S.Mane
———————————— L.Martinez —————————
Subs. Henderson, D.Luiz, Thiago, Mount, Felix, Jesus, Osimhen
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and press them high up the park.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
As Arsenal advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble the 4-2-3-1. The two cms sitting behind the attacking trio pressing the ball, sweeping up danger behind them and in front of the defence.
Lautaro in the space in between the opposition defence and midfield, and either side of their dm. This will make it difficult for their to dm to circulate possession back to their defence.
When Arsenal get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Jesus for Lautaro. More pace up top.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Mount for Fernandes. Strong defensively and hard working, fresh energy in Cm.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Douglas Luiz for Neves. Fresh pace and power.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Mount for Neves and and Jesus for Lautaro.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Osimhen for Sterling. Jesus wide
If losing after 65 mins bring on Mount for Neves.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Felix for Angelino 3-6-1.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Osimhen for Bruno. Big man up top. 3-5-2
------------------------- Martinez ------------------------
-------- B.Pavard ----- Skriniar ----- P.Torres --------
Danilo -------- Soucek -------- Prowse -------- Sandro
------------------------- Grealish -------------------------
----------------- A.Silva -------- Werner ----------------
Lafont, Gosens, T.Mendes, Ziyech, Maddison, Coman, G.Moreno
we go in looking to attack and score goals and play with freedom.
When we don't have the ball, we will press high up the pitch, conceding very little space, Grealish will look to steal the ball within the attacking third and hopefully, quickly get it to those ahead of him. We do not give them any time on the ball and our front 2 prevent their defence hanging on to it too long or trying to play form the back as we pressurise them all the time.
If they do get to our half then we have a strong back 3 and double pivot ahead to prevent play through the middle, meaning they will need to push wide, whichever side they attack from tho I want Grealish to push to that side again to close them down and support the wingbacks, lots of pace in the front three to get at players.
When we have the ball it starts from the back moving the ball around between defence and centre midfield until the moment arrives when a pass can be made through to the front line, , there is no rush, if they come pressing we simply move it to the wide areas for them to bomb down the line and look to either cut it back or get a pass into the front three.
Martinez is our sweeper keeper, he always makes himself big, I want him involved with the defence playing out, if he has the ball I want him to find players especially the wingbacks when we are ready to attack
Pavard & Torres, Cover the wingbacks and take the ball out of defence, use there positional sense well as they may be out paced., must do this with confidence, if they lose the ball then all numbers back to cover, if they are being pressurised then a simple pass even back to the keeper and start again, stay wide (depending on what side) to cover wingbacks if they are forward.
Skriniar - He will press the opposition striker, when we lose the ball he needs to be on top of the CF very quickly, he must intercept everything, but he has the experience to do this, don't take any risks as the CF will also be on him so move it quickly when he gets it.
Danilo and Sandro, must work very hard, they have great work rate but this must done for the whole game, get down the line, get the crosses in, two great forwards to aim for, don't worry so much about whats behind you as their is plenty cover, I don't mean forget your defence duties, just play with a bit of freedom, crosses, one-twos, cut backs and all with pace to hurt them.
Although Soucek primary role in front of the defence 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 the No 10/SS is also a main focus, he isn't an out an out DM but he has a lot of grit and determination to his game so stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him. Also very good in front of goal and in the box for set pieces
Ward-Prowse has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for the front 3, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running he is expected to do and he does a lot. 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, he also has a mean shot from distance and isn't afraid to have a pop.
Grealish is in a free role I want him to dictate proceedings in the final third, either playing the through ball to the front two or use the wingers, pass in between the lines and give them something to run onto as the drive passed the defender, making late runs into the box and look for any loose ball to have a pop at goal, he, Silva & Werner are great finishers so look to make late runs into the area and latching onto crosses from wide areas, defending wise, I want him to harass who ever has the ball in that area, get it and move it forward as quickly as possible, also can draw players into him, therefore winning a lot of free kicks
Werner I want to be making all the runs behind the defence, a tirless worker always making it hard for defenders, I want him to drift wide and pull defenders away, quick and skillfull, look to move out to create an outlet for the wingbacks to use or indeed link with Grealish to get Silva away on goal, he and Silva both fantastic in the air, so while they aim for Werner, Silva will be making the late runs into the danger area and with a head start look to get up early and attack the crosses coming in.
Silva, must be able to hold up play for others to support, also run the channels, will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is also a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain Skriniar
Pens - A.Silva
Free Kicks - Grealish
Corners - Grealish
Losing
70 Mins - Ziyech for Danilo, Moreno for Sandro, Grealish left, Ziyech right, Moreno RCF, Werner LCF, Silvia CF 343 attacking
Drawing
70 Mins - Gosens for Sandro, Moreno for Silva
Winning -
80 Mins - T.Mendes for Werner inot midfield to shore it up, Gosens for Sandro
85 Mins - Moreno for Silva
Balanced 4-3-3
We look to at pace, quick passing throughout as we look to attack with power through the centre using the pace out wide to open up the opposition. Use that pace out wide to create space for Ndombele and Pogba.
The opposition have real quality in midfield, and so we look to hit them with pace. Putting them under pressure in uncomfortable positions, rush them and force them to go long where we will dominate in air. In midfield Tielemans is the dm allowing Ndombele and Pogba to attack. This duo coupled with the pace of our front trio will be key.
When we defend in a narrow 4141 formation, in a tight unit with not much space between the lines. Two players pressing the ball, Witsel defends zonally behind, and the other closest midfielder in the four blocking the passing lane forward. Force them back. We press in this unit as soon. As the opposition enter our half, let them have the ball in their own half.
With team defending in a narrow unit the wide midfielder comes in narrow helping to pick up any spare midfielders who find space or get behind the midfield press.
As a team we look to push the opposition out wide where they will be limited to crosses and we will have a better chance of clearing our lines.
Lukaku up top plays his natural game, he’s best running in behind the opposition or at them. We look to play with great width stretch the game and the opposition looking to create space for him in the middle. He’s not a target man, but he’s great in the air in the box. One fb bombs forward at a time, we look to get the Cm on each side out combining with the attacking fb and winger playing one twos and producing the magic to create for Lukaku.
—————————— Lloris
Hakimi — Koulibaly — Lenglet — L.Digne
—————————— Witsel
————— Ndombele —— Pogba
Dembele ——————————— Son Heung-M
—————————— Lukaku
Subs. Gulacsi, Rabiot, Tielemans, Nkunku, Diaby, Saint Maximin, Benzema
Defence
We press as soon as they enter our half and seek to contain the opposition in their own half. Defending our half.
When this press fails and the opposition push forward we retreat as a unit in the 4141 formation continuing to press in the same formation with two players pressing the ball. When the opposition beat the initial press and get into the final third, we continue to retreat as a unit getting numbers back and the defensive line finally drops to a deep line. We then allow them to retain possession in areas they can’t hurt us, waiting for the chance to press again and push them back. If they seek to recycle the ball and go back to defence we push out as a unit quickly. Two experienced cbs are key for this ensuring we keep a strong line.
The back 4 defend narrow on the side the opposition are attacking. Remove any space for their wide forwards to operate in. The wide midfielders get back, either helping the defending fb or going inside to the Cm allowing cm to press the play, leaving Tielemans in a central position to sweep in front of the defence.
If they seek to go back and switch the play we move over as a unit, seek to press them before they can switch up the park.
Koulibaly the defensive leader at the back, he is the man marker with Lenglet inteligence and both have pace to cover. The full backs always seek to push their attackers out wide.
Subs.
If winning or drawing after 70 mins bring on Nkunku for Dembele fresh pace and class out wide
If winning or drawing after 75 mins bring on Tielemans for Ndombele more defensive and fresh pace and power.
If winning after 78 mins bring on Saint Maximin for Lukaku, Son up top.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Benzema for Witsel. 442. Go for win.
If losing after 68 mins bring on Benzema for Ndombele and Tielemans for Witsel 4-2-2-2.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Nkunku for Dembele.
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
FA Cup
Wolverhampton Wanderers v SHEFFIELD UNITED
---------------------Kelleher
Lamptey, Kjaer, Ampadu, Grimaldo
-----------Gallagher, Höjbjerg
----Mahrez------James--------Isco
----------------------Suárez
Subs: Dubravka, Vrsaljko, Bernat, Veerman, Brooks, Verschaeren, Mertens
Captain: Kjaer
Free Kicks: James
Penalties: Suárez
Our defensive unit consists of Simon Kjaer and Ethan Ampadu paired up at centre-back, Tariq Lamptey at right-back and Álex Grimaldo at left-back, with Conor Gallagher and Pierre-Emile Höjbjerg as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Gallagher and Höjbjerg 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 Höjbjerg can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Gallagher 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 Höjbjerg's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Höjbjerg running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will be dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Conor Gallagher.
Gallagher 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 Gallagher such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Riyad Mahrez, James Rodríguez and Isco as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez 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 Gallagher or Höjbjerg, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Lamptey and Grimaldo can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Gallagher and Höjbjerg can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Riyad Mahrez and Isco, who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box.
James Rodríguez, our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders. James 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 with his quick flicks and one-touch passing, will combine exceptionally well with Mahrez, Isco & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.
Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Mahrez, James & Isco to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.
Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suárez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.
All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.
Subs on 75 mins
Brooks on for Mahrez and Mertens on for Isco
Double substitution - Lots of fresh pace and sublime dribbling skills in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line.
-------------------- Mendy --------------------
Justin --- E.Garcia --- Rudiger -- Reguilon
------------------- N.Kante -------------------
--------- De Bruyne --- De Beek ------------
L.Sane --------- A.Morata ------- M.Asensio
Subs:
Whiteman, Cancelo, De Ligt, Casemiro, Hazard, Griezmann, Abraham
Tactics:
We freshen up the side with 8 changes from our last outing, ensuring that everyone remains sharp and giving some of our fringe players a chance to shine in what is becoming an increasingly competitive squad. All players will be looking to prove their worth as we aim to continue our fine form and take a step closer to glory in the cup.
Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-3-3. We look to dictate the play and take the game to the opposition. Our dual AM's in support of our front three give us a high powered attack capable of causing real problems when we get in the final third.
When the opposition are in possession we sit deep, our CM’s marshalling the middle of the park, breaking down the opposition and setting up us on the counter. We feel that we have the perfect set up to open them up on the counter with terrific pace out wide which will cause problems all afternoon for their fullbacks.
Defence:
We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with pace and quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Rudiger will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Garcia will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top. The Spaniard sweeping up from the back and immediately looking to get us on the counter with his fantastic vision and passing.
Our fullbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have supporting cover in behind with Garcia also drifting across to offer additional support. When in possession both Justin and Reguilon have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third.
Midfield:
Kante will be our holding player in the middle. An all action player we rely on his fantastic tenacity, superb reading of the game and high level work rate to break up the opposition play, winning back possession and setting us up on the counter as we look to get the ball into our creative players as quickly as possible. He’ll pick up their most advanced AM and cut out their supply line.
Further up the field is we go with twin AM's and our creators in chief De Bruyne and De Beek. We look to get them on the ball as much as possible. Both fantastic engines and their off the ball work will contribute to shutting down the opposition and winning back possession however it is in the final third we expect them to shine. Playing with twin AM’s we will create real problems to their DM as we look to overload them in this area.
Both KDB and VDB are also encouraged to go for goal direct. KDB in particular has a fantastic strike from distance and capable of a thunderbolt at any given moment.
Forwards:
In attack we go for goals with a pair of lightening wingers and in form number 9. Sane and Asensio offer great quality from the flanks. Both will be direct, going at the opposition with speed. In one on one situations they can be deadly and with the opposition likely to be concerned with De Bruyne through the middle there is every chance these two can find space to expose on the flanks. With a powerhouse frontline we go for goals, both wingers will look to cause problems, cutting inside and going direct for goal one moment and driving down the line, bamboozling the opposition before whipping the ball into the box the next.
Morata plays through the middle and will have a talented supply line around him. The brief is simple, get into the box and put the ball in the back of the net. With the number of quality attackers, particularly in wide areas, he can expect quality service and the Spaniard is deadly in the air. As always he'll be on his toes ready to pounce on anything that chances that fall his way and with an area of quality around him he'll certainly be given the chance to stake his claim for the starting number 9 spot.
If winning:
75 mins: De Beek & Asensio off, Casemiro & De Ligt on. Shut up shop time as we move to 5-4-1 to see out the win.
80 mins: Morata off, Abraham on. Fresh legs up top as we look to pick them off on the break.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: De Beek & Garcia off, Hazard & Griezmann on. We pile on the pressure as we switch to 3-4-3 and bring on the heavy hitters. Griezmann & Hazard playing either side of Morata in a deadly front three as we go for goals.
CHELSEA v Newcastle
--------------------------- Oblak ----------------------------
W-Bissaka ----- S.deVrij ----- van Dijk ----- Jordi Alba
----------------- Dec Rice ------ F.de Jong ---------------
Mbappe ------------------ Ilicic ------------------ Neymar
-------------------------- Haaland --------------------------
Bounou, Kamara, Chilwell, Bentancur, Ferran, Musiala, Calvert-Lewin
We like playing from the back and quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front we do not allow them to play from the back or allow their midfield to dominate, as our front three play quite a high line, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with Declan Rice and de Jong ahead of them just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and our midfield will be in and around the half way line, Haaland slightly higher up always on top of the CBs stopping them passing between each other, defend from the front, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.
de Vrij picks up the CF not much gets passed him, van Dijk spare picks up the AM or any other player that's roams into the danger area, if they get away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly, Both comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, both must attack high balls to get the ball away from the opposition big men. Fullbacks keep the wingers quiet, stop their attacks 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. When they attack, only one at a time we cant afford be exposed, they drive down the line in support of the wingers drive on the outside making an extra man. If either get caught up field I want Rice to drift to the side with this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. This allows de Jong to stay central and pick up anyone else or indeed get the ball and get us moving, Ilicic also covers by dropping back to fill in the midfield even just to follow any defender that moves up field or to fill the gap Rice has made by moving to pick up men. van Dijk and de Vrij to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Rice sitting back.
Declan Rice is our deepest midfielder sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, will at times drop between the 2 Cbs to get the ball, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. de Jong will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defence as best as possible, in possession get it to the front 3/4 but also look for fullbacks as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Our midfield maestro Ilicic is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in an advanced No.10/CF role and look for the de Jong/Rice/CB pass. He will drop back at times to pick it up and will look to his dribbling and passing capabilities to get him around players, and into the danger area to unleash a powerful drive, sometimes taking a foul as he is a tricky player to mark. When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front.After the pass he can push wide or central to make that extra man When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart and create space for the front 3. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.
Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders our defenders are superb long ball passers, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Neymar will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Ilicic to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power and pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Haaland who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, especially Ilicic who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Ilicic/Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Losing/drawing
65 Mins - Calvert-Lewin for Ilicic, Chilwell for Alba we go 4-4-2/4-2-4, with Chilwell driving down the line, bringing on DCL he has someone to am for in the centre as he is magnificent in the air, and if he doesn't go for goal, he has others to knock down for, we focus more wing play after taking off a midfielder
Losing -
80 Mins - Chilwell to LM, Neymar to No.10, 3412 really pushing hard for a goal
Winning -
75 Mins - Bentancur for Ilicic, Rice drops back in between def/mid, Bentancur sit beside de Jong to shore up midfield
83 Mins - Calvert-Lewin for Haaland
--------------------------- Martinez --------------------------
---------- B.Pavard ----- Skriniar ----- P.Torres ----------
T.Correia ------- McTom ------- Prowse ------- R.Gosens
--------------------------- Grealish ---------------------------
----------------- A.Silva ------------ Werner ----------------
Bursik, Danilo, McGinn, Maddison, G.Moreno, Correa, Watkins
we go in looking to attack and score goals and play with freedom. They only have one recognised CB who is half decent so we really need to pressurise them at the back.
When we don't have the ball, we will press high up the pitch, conceding very little space, Grealish will look to steal the ball within the attacking third and hopefully, quickly get it to those ahead of him. We do not give them any time on the ball and our front 2 prevent their defence hanging on to it too long or trying to play form the back as we pressurise them all the time.
If they do get to our half then we have a strong back 3 and double pivot ahead to prevent play through the middle, meaning they will need to push wide, whichever side they attack from tho I want Grealish to push to that side again to close them down and support the wingbacks, lots of pace in the front three to get at players.
When we have the ball it starts from the back moving the ball around between defence and centre midfield until the moment arrives when a pass can be made through to the front line, , there is no rush, if they come pressing we simply move it to the wide areas for them to bomb down the line and look to either cut it back or get a pass into the front three.
Martinez is our sweeper keeper, he always makes himself big, I want him involved with the defence playing out, if he has the ball I want him to find players especially the wingbacks when we are ready to attack
Pavard & Torres, Cover the wingbacks when they have pushed forward and take the ball out of defence, use there positional sense well as they may be out paced., must do this with confidence, if they lose the ball then all numbers back to cover, if they are being pressurised then a simple pass even back to the keeper and start again, stay wide (depending on what side) to cover wingbacks if they are forward.
Skriniar - He will press the opposition striker, when we lose the ball he needs to be on top of the CF very quickly, he must intercept everything, but he has the experience to do this, don't take any risks as the CF will also be on him so move it quickly when he gets it.
Correia and Sandro, must work very hard, they have great work rate but this must done for the whole game, get down the line, get the crosses in, two great forwards to aim for, don't worry so much about whats behind you as their is plenty cover, I don't mean forget your defence duties, just play with a bit of freedom, crosses, one-twos, cut backs and all with pace to hurt them.
Although McTominay's primary role in front of the defence 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 the No 10/SS is also a main focus, he has a lot of grit and determination to his game so stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him. Also very good in front of goal and in the box for set pieces, if he makes a break forward Prowse will look just to sit in a bit.
Ward-Prowse has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for the front 3, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running he is expected to do and he does a lot. 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, he also has a mean shot from distance and isn't afraid to have a pop.
Grealish is in a free role I want him to dictate proceedings in the final third, either playing the through ball to the front two or use the wingers, pass in between the lines and give them something to run onto as the drive passed the defender, making late runs into the box and look for any loose ball to have a pop at goal, he, Silva & Werner are great finishers so look to make late runs into the area and latching onto crosses from wide areas, defending wise, I want him to harass who ever has the ball in that area, get it and move it forward as quickly as possible, also can draw players into him, therefore winning a lot of free kicks
Werner I want to be making all the runs behind the defence, a tirless worker always making it hard for defenders, I want him to drift wide and pull defenders away, quick and skillfull, look to move out to create an outlet for the wingbacks to use or indeed link with Grealish to get Silva away on goal, he and Silva both fantastic in the air, so while they aim for Werner, Silva will be making the late runs into the danger area and with a head start look to get up early and attack the crosses coming in. Again, really put the pressure on their back line, they are great going forward but today, pretty weak at the back
Silva, must be able to hold up play for others to support, also run the channels, will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is also a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain Skriniar
Pens - A.Silva
Free Kicks - Grealish
Corners - Grealish
Losing -
65 Mins - Angel Correa for Correia to RM, Grealish move to LM, Watkins for Gosens, we go 343 attacking, with Watkins going to RCF, hopefully too much for them to handle as the crosses come flying in
75 Mins - Moreno for Silva, a fresh forward for them to deal with as they tire
Drawing -
70 Mins - Watkins for Silva, Correa for Correia, fresh legs and a bit more attacking down the right
77 Mins - Moreno for Werner
Winning -
75 Mins - McGinn for Werner, he drops into midfield to shore it up
83 Mins - Moreno for Silva, fresh legs, waste time near the end, hold it up and all that
Attacking 4-3-3
We play an attacking 4-3-3 to dominate possession, best form of defence is them not having the ball. As you’d expect with a possession gameplan we will be patient in the first two thirds of the park, this means we will move the ball quickly and at pace but will not force the play, let them chase us tiring them physically and mentally. Fernandes is the exception as we give him freedom to play more direct balls from deeper areas.
In the final third we give all players freedom to use their quality to create and produce magic to open up the opposition.
Up top we go with a front 3 full of pace, the wingers stay high and wide in possession, stretching Bournemouth defence and setting the side up perfectly for the possession play. In front of the defence Rodri and Neves are the perfect two for the possession, play with Fernandes playing an Iniesta role as attacking Cm with freedom to drift. Everyone in their best position, in a formation and system that suits everyone playing their natural game.
Both cbs are strong defensively, with great physicality. Rodri in front offering a strong, athletic dm presence. The rest of the midfield and attackers are tasked with pressing the ball, Neves offers intelligence in midfield a master at pressing the space, Fernandes brings energy and intensity. The front three also hard working and will press in high areas and win the ball back quickly.
The central trio have the quality to dominate possession with the cbs behind them. We have a front three full of pace, looking to stretch the opposition and create space for our midfielders to exploit.
In defence Rodri drops behind the other two cms who press the play as the trio narrow, similarly in attack Rodri stays deepest but the trio do not play so narrow. We have a defence full of pace and great energy in front so play a reasonably high line, helping us press B’mouth in high areas, and aiding distribution out from the back line.
Laporte the man marker as he is the stronger physically and can dominate in the air next to Marquinhos who is free to use his reading of the game and pace to sweep up. In midfield, the trio narrow in front with the cm opposite play dropping behind, allowing the other two to press with cover. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play. Win the ball back from them quickly before they can get anywhere.
Quick passing and moving to find space in between the opposition lines. Using the pace of our wide forwards and fbs (one bombs forward at a time) to create space as we push forward.
We have a cm duo who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid front three, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.
As we move forward we get quick one twos in the opposition half. With this fluid front three, Neves supports creating and linking the play, Fernandes gets in and around the box looking for the final ball or shooting.
Positional structure, in addition to our technical players will be key to our quick passing possession gameplan going forward. Our approach in build up is to play a flexible asymmetric shape, giving bodies on different lines to increase the options we have in possession, and to create gaps in the opposition, and space for our players.
————————————— Allison ———————————
Carvajal ——Marquinhos —— Laporte —— D.Alaba
—————————————- Rodri ————————————
————————- R.Neves —— B.Fernandes —————
—————————————————————————————
Sterling ——————— L.Martinez ————— S.Mane
Subs. Henderson, R.James, Angelino, Mount, Felix, Neto, Jesus
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and press them high up the park.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
As B”mouth advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-3-2. Winger on the side of play drops deep and Rodri drops behind the other two cms pressing the space behind the two cms pressing the ball, sweeping up danger behind them and in front of the defence.
Lautaro and the remaining wide forward in the space in between the opposition defence and midfield, and either side of their dm. This will make it difficult for their to dm to circulate possession back to their defence.
The wide man on the side of play that drops and the two cms (Neves and Fernandes) are the trio pressing the ball, and look to force B’mouth backwards. With the two forwards left forward this is where we look to press the opposition into mistakes and win the ball in high areas. With pace to join the attack quickly and overload B’mouth.
When B’mouth get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Jesus for Lautaro. More pace up top.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Mount for Neves. Strong defensively and hard working, fresh energy in Cm.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Neto for Sterling.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Jesus for Sterling. More direct and goal scorer.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Felix for Carvajal. 3-5-2.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Mount for Neves.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Mount for Rodri. Neves to dm.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Felix for Sterling. Fresh trickery to get us back in it.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Neto for Carvajal. 3-5-2.
If a red card, Sterling off. 4-3-2.
If a fb, replace with fb. If cb, Alaba to cb, Angelino on.
If dm, Neves deep, Mount on. If Cm, Mount on.
If one of front 3, no subs till second half then usual subs on winning/draw/losing.
Balanced 4-3-3
We look to at pace, quick passing throughout as we look to attack with power through the centre using the pace out wide to open up the opposition. Use that pace out wide to create space for Ndombele and Tielemans.
The opposition have real quality in midfield, and so we look to hit them with pace. Putting them under pressure in uncomfortable positions, rush them and force them to go long where we will dominate in air. In midfield Witsel is the dm allowing Ndombele and Tielemans to attack. This duo coupled with the pace of our front trio will be key.
When we defend in a narrow 4141 formation, in a tight unit with not much space between the lines. Two players pressing the ball, Witsel defends zonally behind, and the other closest midfielder in the four blocking the passing lane forward. Force them back. We press in this unit as soon. As the opposition enter our half, let them have the ball in their own half.
With team defending in a narrow unit the wide midfielder comes in narrow helping to pick up any spare midfielders who find space or get behind the midfield press.
As a team we look to push the opposition out wide where they will be limited to crosses and we will have a better chance of clearing our lines.
Lukaku up top plays his natural game, he’s best running in behind the opposition or at them. We look to play with great width stretch the game and the opposition looking to create space for him in the middle. He’s not a target man, but he’s great in the air in the box. One fb bombs forward at a time, we look to get the Cm on each side out combining with the attacking fb and winger playing one twos and producing the magic to create for Lukaku.
—————————— Lloris
Hakimi — Koulibaly — Lenglet — L.Digne
—————————— Witsel
————— Ndombele —— Tielemans
Dembele ——————————— Son Heung-M
—————————— Lukaku
Subs. Gulacsi, Rabiot, Godfrey, Nkunku, Diaby, Benzema, Kean
Defence
We press as soon as they enter our half and seek to contain the opposition in their own half. Defending our half.
When this press fails and the opposition push forward we retreat as a unit in the 4141 formation continuing to press in the same formation with two players pressing the ball. When the opposition beat the initial press and get into the final third, we continue to retreat as a unit getting numbers back and the defensive line finally drops to a deep line. We then allow them to retain possession in areas they can’t hurt us, waiting for the chance to press again and push them back. If they seek to recycle the ball and go back to defence we push out as a unit quickly. Two experienced cbs are key for this ensuring we keep a strong line.
The back 4 defend narrow on the side the opposition are attacking. Remove any space for their wide forwards to operate in. The wide midfielders get back, either helping the defending fb or going inside to the Cm allowing cm to press the play, leaving Witsel in a central position to sweep in front of the defence.
If they seek to go back and switch the play we move over as a unit, seek to press them before they can switch up the park.
Koulibaly the defensive leader at the back, he is the man marker with Lenglet inteligence and both have pace to cover. The full backs always seek to push their attackers out wide.
Subs.
If winning or drawing after 70 mins bring on Diaby for Dembele fresh pace and class out wide
If winning after 75 mins bring on Nkunku for Tielemans.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Nkunku for Tielemans more attacking and fresh pace and power.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Diaby for Ndombele. 4-4-2. Diaby lm , Son up top.
If drawing after 85 mins bring on Kean for Dembele.
If losing after 68 mins bring on Diaby for Tielemans. 4-2-2-2. Son up top, Diaby left.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Rabiot for Witsel, box to box power and energy.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Kean for Dembele. Son left, Diaby right.
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Tactics
Page 29 of 69
30 | 31 | 32 | 33 | 34
posted on 1/2/21
SOTON vs Man City
--------------------------------------Onana-----------------------
----------Upamecano----------Dias---------Fofana---------------------
---------------------------------------Ndidi------------------------------------
-----------------------Valverde-----------Odegaard------------------------
Adama---------------------------------------------------------------Pulisic
--------------------------Jovic------------Rashford----------------------------
Subs - Ramsdale, Dest, Demiral, Camavinga, Szoboszlai, Reinier, Bailey
CAPTAIN - UPAMECANO
CK'S - ØDEGAARD
FK'S - ØDEGAARD
PENALTIES - RASHFORD
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't 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
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. Upamecano and Fofana will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to close down the oppo wingers. Dias in the middle will marshall the defence and look to snuff out any attacks from the oppo striker/s. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.
Defence Mid
Ndidi
Ndidi 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.Help out Upamecano and Fofana if they come up against a winger on the wings. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or to the CM's. Also be on the lookout for the runs of Pulisic/Adama and thread dangerous through balls to them.
Centre Mids
Valverde + Ødegaard
Valverde will be playing as a b2b CM today. He will pick the ball up from deep and use his technique and vision to find the runs of our attacking players and thread deadly passes to them. Play quick passes forward and use your agility to outmanoeuvre the oppo players. Play 1 2 quick passes with your teammates and make penetrating runs from deep. When not in possession of the ball I want him to drop deep in central midfield and try and intercept any passes the oppo will make. Shoot if you have a chance to.
Ødegaard will have a similar role to Valverde except he will be given more attacking freedom. I want him to always make runs forward and when the oppo DM has the ball I want him to put pressure on him and close him down so he makes a mistake and we potentially create a goal scoring opportunity. Use your nimbleness and pace to get away from players marking you in the middle and if you find some space shoot. If you see Ndidi and Valverde struggling in the middle being overwhelmed by the oppo then I want you to focus on helping them more defensively in the centre of midfield.
Wingers
Adama + Pulisic
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Pulisic will be looking to cut in from the left and Adama will be looking to get to the byline and to whip some balls in to the area. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of your teammates close to you and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. Pulisic will be allowed cut in onto your stronger foot, don't be afraid to shoot from range as you have the ability to score from long range. If there is no space to do so then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Jovic to get his head on. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack. If we get to the byline with either of the wingers I want them to either whip in a low ball across the face of the net for our strikers to poke home or pull the ball back to just outside the box for Valverde/Ødegaard to get a shot in.
Strikers
Marcus Rashford MBE
Rashford is a striker that has the deadly combination of pace and finishing. He will look to use his pace to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to fund spaces in the oppo defence.
Luka Jovic
Jovic will look to use his strength and hold up play to bring others into the game. Try and get in front of the oppo defenders and use your aerial ability to win the header and either pass the header to a teammate or get a shot on goal. Try to make runs off the shoulders of the oppo defence aswell sometimes just to mix it up and give the oppo defenders something else to think about.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Szoboszlai for Ødegaard and Bailey for Adama to bring some more attacking impetus on. Reinier on for Valverde aswell and a small position change in midfield. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
-----------------------------------Onana-----------------------
----------Upamecano----------Dias---------Fofana---------------------
--------------------------------------Ndidi------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bailey---------------Szobo---------Reinier---------------------Pulisic
--------------------------Jovic------------Rashford----------------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Ødegaard and put on Camavinga in DM. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. . Take the wingers off and put on Dest as a wingback who'll offer a lot more defensive stability.
-----------------------------------Onana-----------------------
----------Upamecano----------Dias---------Fofana---------------------
-------------------Camavinga--------------Ndidi------------------------------
Dest------------------------------Valverde--------------------Ait-Nouri
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------Jovic--------Rashford-------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Bailey on for Adama
Szoboszlai on for Ødegaard
Reinier on for Jovic
Fresh legs to bring on.
RED CARD SCENARIOS
Change formation to 351 in all red card scenarios. The wingers will have to help out more in defence aswell.
If my GK gets sent off put on Ramsdale in goal. Take off Jovic.
If any of the CB's get sent off take off Lo Jovic and put on Demiral at CB.
If any of the wingers get sent off put Rashford in the sent off playeys position.
If either Valverde/Ødegaard get sent off just move the remaining CM even more deeper in midfield.
If Ndidi gets sent off move Valverde to DM.
If any of the strikers get sent off leave things how they are.
posted on 5/2/21
Newcastle vs PORTSMOUTH
Back to a formation that served us well in the cup, I know it has it’s detractors and gets panned for defensive width, but we’ve tweaked the playing staff and I’m setting my midfield slightly differently so that when Newcastle attack we switch to a flat back four. The main advantage of this formation if the gamble comes off is that the last couple of weeks Ludy has favoured 3-5-2. With his main wide threat coming from wing-backs we don’t feel this exposes us as bad as if he we’re to use flying wingers. Also his weakness is the same as mine, attacks from out-wide, so by putting Ronaldo and Insigne in the space where his wing-backs are or would be it forces his side deeper and relieves the pressure on the back line.
………………………………………Ederson………………………
…………………………Dias………Bonucci………Romagnoli………….
………………………………………….Busquets……………………….
…………………………..Kessie…………………….McKennie……………
Ronaldo……………………………..Eriksen………………………………Insigne
…………………………………………Aguero…………………………………….
Subs: Turati (GK) F.Mendy, Bellerin, Koke, Chiellini, Jiminez, Belotti
Ederson is a super sweeper keeper, he’s quick off his line to clear up any through balls or flick on’s that get past our defence, with the ball it’s about retention, all our centre-backs are comfortable with ball to feet so whoever the free man is can take it, but if it needs to go long then long it shall go.
The back line is about as strong as any defence in this league, Bonucci has been there and done it all a true leader, flanked by Milan captain Romagnoli and the linchpin of city’s resurgence Ruben Dias, yes its not the quickest in terms of legs but they have footballing brains and their collective reading of the game buys them a 5 yards head start. As with Ederson we’re playing possession football today, and whilst I don’t want any passes across the back-line that invite bad luck they can spread it about and pull Newcastle out of position.
Busquets is a stella signing and his role in this side suits his skill-set perfectly. I can not and will not ever accept him as a midfield enforcer like in the halcyon days of our youth but his standing in the game even at 32 is unparalleled very good on the ball and can be trusted to dictate the tempo, he doesn’t need to worry about covering miles, I want him sitting and assessing damage but where he comes into real assistance is when McKennie and Kessie press man and ball, Busquets drops back into the defence – Roma and Dias shuffle wide and we have a back-four, Ludy’s wingers or wingbacks (depending) suddenly have no free run at us. And we cover the spaces. A vital cog in the Pompey machine.
Whilst Busquets brings the experience and know-how we look to Kessie and McKennie to bring the drive and energy, both will go box to box and hunt as a pair. Big strong physical players they’ll look to get at Newcastles midfield, harry them and don’t give them time and freedom to pick a pass, one takes the man one follows the ball, and then for the next pass they role reverse, it’s all about proximity to the opposition ball carrier, we have to get in hard on the geordies first touches. Offensively both have proven they can get in amongst the goals and I expect them to make the runs to break the lines of play and give our #10 more passing angles, but most importantly give him more space, make the run and take the blockers away.
Ronaldo and Insigne will stay high and wide, we’re stretching the pitch today, if ludy goes 4 at the back, then we run the lines, we have no-one over-lapping in this set-up but with 2 marauding Cm’s we can get central overlaps causing confusion. If Ludy goes with a back 5 (wing-backs) then these two angle their runs slightly, it’s all about getting bodies in the box and trying to find space to shoot. Let’s be honest if he can see the goal then it’s in range for Ronaldo. Insigne is a tricky player with a very good centre of balance. Where as Ronaldo can rampage through a defence, Lorenzo can slink through (in a manly way he’s from Naples afterall)
Eriksen comes in to the side as our latest greatest number 10 in the world, a genuine threat from distance and a very good set-piece delivery, he can be a real asset to us, he’ll look to play between the lines today and disrupt Newcastles midfield defensively, by playing a midfield diamond we look to be able to box in newcastles attack and counter press. There should be a numerical advantage in there we just have to exploit the spaces but whilst most sides just have a DM to break up play ours can dictate it, and with Kessie and McKennie going on past Eriksen he should find ample space to weave his magic, if the shots on then take it, you gotta buy a ticket to win a raffle.
Kun Aguero may have his injuries but he’s still ice cold in front of goal, it’s all about delivery and with the entire side geared up to making as many chances for him as possible, from whipped in balls from Insigne, precision dinks through from Eriksen or…..nah we know Ronaldo won’t be assisting
Whilst he looks out-gunned against a back three in reality with this side and these tactics that won’t be the case and we all know he’ll get some chances.
Subs 65 mins winning or drawing
Koke > McKennie fresh legs in the engine
Belotti > Aguero again like for like
Losing 65 mins
Jiminez > Busquets – Raul goes up top alongside Aguero and plays the target man role
posted on 5/2/21
Bournemouth v CHELSEA
---------------------------- Oblak -----------------------------
W-Bissaka ----- S.deVrij ------ F.Acerbi ----- Jordi Alba
---------------- F.de Jong ------ Locatelli ------------------
Mbappe ------------------- Ilicic ------------------- Neymar
--------------------------- Haaland ---------------------------
Bounou, Chilwell, Bellingham, Kamara, Havertz, Ferran, Greenwood
We like playing from the back and quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front we do not allow them to play from the back as our front three play quite a high line, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with Locatelli and de Jong ahead of them just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and our midfield will be in and around the half way line, Haaland slightly higher up always on top of the CBs stopping them passing between each other, defend from the front, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.
Nothing like a bit of experience at the back, de Vrij picks up the CF not much gets passed him, Acerbi spare picks up the AM or any other player that's roams into the danger area, if they get away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly, Both comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, both must attack high balls to get the ball away from the opposition big men. Fullbacks keep the wingers quiet, stop their attacks 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. When they attack, only one at a time we cant afford be exposed, they drive down the line in support of the wingers drive on the outside making an extra man. If either get caught up field I want Locatelli OR de Jong to drift to the side with this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. Ilicic also covers by dropping back to fill in the midfield even just to follow any defender that moves up field, Acerbi and de Vrij to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Locatelli sitting back.
Locatelli is our deepest midfielder sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, will at times drop between the 2 Cbs to get the ball, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. de Jong will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defence as best as possible, in possession get it to the front 3/4 but also look for fullbacks as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Our midfield maestro Ilicic central for a is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in an advanced No.10/CF role and look for the de Jong/Locatelli/CB pass. He will drop back at times to pick it up and will look to his dribbling and passing capabilities to get him around players, and into the danger area to unleash a powerful drive, sometimes taking a foul as he is a tricky player to mark. When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front.After the pass he can push wide or central to make that extra man When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart and create space for the front 3. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.
Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders our defenders are superb long ball passers, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Neymar will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Ilicic to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power and pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Haaland who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, especially Ilicic who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain - de Jong
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Ilicic/Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Losing/drawing
65 Mins - Chilwell for Alba, fresh legs, wicked cross on him, Ferran for Ilicic, he goes to RW, Mbappe to LW and Neymar to SS right on Haaland to push them right back
Losing
80 Mins - Chilwell push up to midfield, Mbappe up top with Haaland 3412, Bellingham on for de Jong as well for fresh legs
Drawing -
80 Mins Greenwood for Haaland
Winning -
75 Mins - Kamara for Ilicic, he goes in between def/mid
83 Mins - Havertz for Haaland, play as a false 9
posted on 5/2/21
Bournemouth Tactics: League round 15 (Home to Chelsea)
Captain: Ibañez
Vice Captain: Zubeldia
Team:
------------------Simón
Molina--Ibañez—Botman---Olivera
---------------Zubeldia
----------Pessina---Gonçalves
Antony----------------------------Baeza
------------------Suárez
SUBS: Safonov, Aarons, Carmo, Assunção, Guimarães, Sancet, Evanilson
We want to play a neat crisp passing game at high tempo using our obvious pace to punish the opponent. Our formation will be a 4-3-3 that will allow our full backs to join in the attack when necessary and also offer us the flexibility to fall back into a more standard 4-4-2 when under pressure. We need to boss the midfield from the start and control the game with our own tempo. When in possession use the ball well and try and bring our wide men in to play. When chasing the ball press the opponent with urgency and all over the park. Don’t take too many risks and hold onto the ball. With our creativity and pace we will be able to open teams up. Wait for the chances to arise and take them when they come.
Goalkeeper: Simón is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: Zubeldia will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. Pessina and Gonçalves will play just in front of Zubeldia. Pessina will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Gonçalves will be the midfield magician. Clever, elusive and tricky we will look to him for creating the midfield openings with his eye for a pass. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Antony and Baeza will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Gonçalves, Pessina and Suárez in to play. They can vary their attacks by going wide or cutting inside as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Pessina may sit a bit deeper allowing Gonçalves to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF. As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Suárez starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great big old fashioned centre forward. We will look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. An eye for a pass and not afraid to have a go from distance. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his power pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Gonçalves, Baeza or Antony with Ibañez, Botman, Zubeldia and Suárez to offer an aerial threat. Gonçalves and Baeza (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Suárez
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Carmo for Botman, Evanilson for Suárez and Guimarães for Pessina, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 80 minutes) Sancet for Pessina and Evanilson for Antony. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Evanilson and Sancet offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
--------------Zubeldia
Sancet-----Gonçalves----Baeza
---------Suárez---Evanilson
posted on 5/2/21
------------------------- Martinez -------------------------
-------- B.Pavard ----- Skriniar ----- P.Torres ---------
Danilo --------- Soucek ------- McGinn -------- Sandro
------------------------- Maddison -------------------------
----------------- A.Silva --------- Watkins ----------------
Lafont, Gosens, Mendes, Coman, Ziyech, Leao, Martial
Up against it this week, but we go in looking to attack and score goals and play with freedom.
When we don't have the ball, we will press high up the pitch, conceding very little space, Maddison will look to steal the ball within the attacking third and hopefully, quickly get it to those ahead of him. We do not give them any time on the ball and our front 2 prevent their defence hanging on to it too long or trying to play form the back as we pressurise them all the time.
If they do get to our half then we have a strong back 3 and double pivot ahead to prevent play through the middle, meaning they will need to push wide, whichever side they attack from tho I want Maddison to push to that side again to close them down and support the wingbacks, lots of pace in the front three to get at players.
When we have the ball it starts from the back moving the ball around between defence and centre midfield until the moment arrives when a pass can be made through to the front line, , there is no rush, if they come pressing we simply move it to the wide areas for them to bomb down the line and look to either cut it back or get a pass into the front three.
Martinez is our sweeper keeper, he always makes himself big, I want him involved with the defence playing out, if he has the ball I want him to find players especially the wingbacks when we are ready to attack
Pavard & Torres, Cover the wingbacks and take the ball out of defence, use there positional sense well as they may be out paced., must do this with confidence, if they lose the ball then all numbers back to cover, if they are being pressurised then a simple pass even back to the keeper and start again, stay wide (depending on what side) to cover wingbacks if they are forward.
Skriniar - He will press the opposition striker, when we lose the ball he needs to be on top of the CF very quickly, he must intercept everything, but he has the experience to do this, don't take any risks as the CF will also be on him so move it quickly when he gets it.
Danilo and Sandro, must work very hard, they have great work rate but this must done for the whole game, get down the line, get the crosses in, two great forwards to aim for, don't worry so much about whats behind you as their is plenty cover, I don't mean forget your defence duties, just play with a bit of freedom, crosses, one-twos, cut backs and all with pace to hurt them.
Although Soucek primary role in front of the defence 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 the No 10/SS is also a main focus, he isn't an out an out DM but he has a lot of grit and determination to his game so stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him. Also very good in front of goal and in the box for set pieces
McGinn has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for the front 3, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running he is expected to do and he does a lot. 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, he also has a mean shot from distance and isn't afraid to have a pop.
Maddison is in a free role I want him to dictate proceedings in the final third, either playing the through ball to the front two or use the wingers, pass in between the lines and give them something to run onto as the drive passed the defender, making late runs into the box and look for any loose ball to have a pop at goal, he, Silva & Watkins are great finishers so look to make late runs into the area and latching onto crosses from wide areas, defending wise, I want him to harass who ever has the ball in that area, get it and move it forward as quickly as possible, also can draw players into him, therefore winning a lot of free kicks
Watkins I want to be making all the runs behind the defence, a tirless worker always making it hard for defenders, I want him to drift wide and pull defenders away, quick and skillfull, look to move out to create an outlet for the wingbacks to use or indeed link with Maddison to get Silva away on goal, he and Silva both fantastic in the air, so while they aim for Watkins, Silva will be making the late runs into the danger area and with a head start look to get up early and attack the crosses coming in.
Silva, must be able to hold up play for others to support, also run the channels, will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is also a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain Skriniar
Pens - A.Silva
Free Kicks - Maddison
Corners - Maddison
Losing -
70 Mins - Ziyech > Danilo, Coman > Sandro, Leoa > Silva, we go more attacking with wingers instead of wingbacks and a new threat up top
Drawing -
76 Mins - Leao > Silva, Gosens > Sandro, Ziyech > Maddison all frsh legs
Winning -
80 Mins - T.Mendes > Silva and into midfield to shore it up, Gosens for Sandro
85 Mins - Martial > Watkins
posted on 5/2/21
Southampton v SHEFFIELD UNITED
-----------------------Kelleher
Lamptey, Christensen, T. Silva, Grimaldo
--------------Ampadu, Gallagher
------Mahrez, James, Saint-Maximin
----------------------Suárez
Subs: Dubravka, Vrsaljko, Kjaer, Bernat, Brooks, Verschaeren, Mertens
Captain: Thiago Silva
Free Kicks: James
Penalties: Suárez
Our defensive unit consists of Andreas Christensen and Thiago Silva paired up at centre-back, Tariq Lamptey at right-back and Álex Grimaldo at left-back, with Ethan Ampadu and Conor Gallagher as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Ampadu and Gallagher 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 Gallagher can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Ampadu 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 Gallagher's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Gallagher running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will be dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Ethan Ampadu.
Ampadu 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 Ampadu such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Riyad Mahrez, James Rodríguez and Allan Saint-Maximin as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez 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 Ampadu or Gallagher, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Lamptey and Grimaldo can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Ampadu and Gallagher can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Riyad Mahrez and Allan Saint-Maximin, who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box.
James Rodríguez, our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders. James 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 with his quick flicks and one-touch passing, will combine exceptionally well with Mahrez, Saint-Maximin & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.
Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Mahrez, James & Saint-Maximin to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.
Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suárez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.
All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.
Subs on 75 mins
Brooks on for Mahrez and Mertens on for Saint-Maximin
Double substitution - Lots of fresh pace and sublime dribbling skills in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line.
posted on 6/2/21
Attacking direct 3-4-3
At home, we go with a side that is firstly solid and strong defensively, and fit to play an explosive and direct attacking football. A front 3 means we are able to get Lukaku and Son close to Benzema in a fluid front three. Benzema has fantastic hold up play and ability to have both Lukaku and Son playing off him using their pace to get ay Arsenal.
We will be direct as possible get the front three on the ball and get support up to them. Both wing backs will have freedom to attack, bombing down the wings and crossing for the front 3. We will get the wing backs attacking their full backs at pace, linking up with with the forwards and doubling up on this space at times. Overload them down the wings to create space for Lukaku and Benzema in the box.
The setup gives freedom to our attacking trio and the wingbacks going forward. Tielemans is our defensive midfielder in cm, staying reserved and spreading the play, directing our attacks down the wings.
We defend in a narrow formation, limiting the space for Arsenal to play in. The wingback on the opposite side of play will drop back into defence forming a back four. The wb on the side of play helps the cb on the side of play (cb on side of play acts as fb) defend against the attacking winger and fb.
The defence and midfield press as a unit, ensuring there is no space between the lines for Arsenal attacking mids. When defending, Tirlemans plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area. Ndombele will play ball side of Tielemans and always press the passing lanes.
When we win the ball we attack at pace. Use the wing backs bombing forward linking with the wide forwards to create for Lukaku and Benzema.
The formation also means a free role for Son. Make him impossible to man mark without leavings holes and space for our other attackers to exploit.
——————————— Gulacsi
———— Godfrey — Koulibaly — Lenglet
Hakimi —— Tielemans—— Ndombele —— Digne
—————— Lukaku —————— Son H-M. ————
——————————— Benzema
Subs. Meunier, Gaya, Witsel, Rabiot, Nkunku, Diaby, Carrasco
Defence
When we lose the ball high up the park we always look to win it back straight away, don’t give them a chance to counter. The closest 2/3 players press. Allowing others to get back into position behind the ball.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
When the opposition get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation set out above. Our defence have fantastic pace up against their forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Attack
We attack quickly when we win the ball aiming our attacks down the wings. If the counter is not on we look to get the wing backs and wide forwards doubling up on their fbs.
The back 3 are all comfortable on the ball and look to play out, helping us move the ball quickly having a strong base.
Benzema up top plays his natural game, offering a forward we can go longer too, for Son and Lukaku to play off, linking the play and most importantly being in the box to be the difference maker and get the goals.
Subs.
If winning after 72 bring on Nkunku for Benzema. Lukaku to cf. Fresh legs in midfield. More energy in Cm.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Gaya for Digne. Fresh pace.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Rabiot for Ndombele. Fresh legs in important position
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Nkunku for Godfrey. 4-4-2.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Diaby for Benzema. Diaby lm, Son up top.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Nkunku for Gofrey. 4-4-2.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Diaby for Benzema.
posted on 6/2/21
Newcastle 4-2-3-1
————————— ter Stegen
Trent — Hummels — Evans — Shaw
————— Fabinho —— Kroos
Kulu ————— Modric ———— Oyarzabal
———————— Immobile
SUBS: Robbo, Barella, Ings, Jota, Llorente, Goretzka, Henderson
Captain: Kroos
Set piece: Trent
Penalties: Immobile
We have to dominate the middle. We will have a lot of creativity on the ball today in midfield today with a double pivot. It is up to us to dominate the ball and create the amount of chances needed to win the game by playing on the front foot. Our midfielders are very good at carrying the ball breaking the lines in the process. I reckon if I can gain control of the middle of the pitch I have a chance of blowing them off the park with our players playing their natural game. The double pivot will be key today. I expect that when we have the ball we picks their head up and find a first time ball to our wide forwards. With the movement of my front four I hope to invite their defenders into making rash decisions. All my front three players have goals in them. We need the win today to give us the momentum needed to help power us into the champions league places.
Defending
In terms of defending, it is important that we are aware of the threats posed by my team having the lions share of possession. Tino will get chances on the counter, and while I believe that my team will pin them back for most of the match there are still going to be windows of opportunity of them when they have a spell of possession and on the counter. His attack can be dangerous on the counter which can present an immense danger if not careful. In our case it is important that we are always aware of the possibility of that counter. I consider strikers and wingers the biggest threats, so when we are attacking in their third our DM will sit close to our centre halves making sure we are not too exposed. Special mention to their striker, he'll take some handling, and we know that our CBs can take turns in handling him. We will also have our full backs closely watch wide players, making sure not to get sucked into the middle and let the midfielders deal with anyone cutting inside. His wide players will likely be back defending anyway but their pace will carry them forwards very quickly. Once they show signs of counter attacking our full backs will fly back to stop them.
To win the ball back, we will sit off them mostly and only press them around our box. Only when they have all of our players pressed back in our third as they inevitably will do at some stage. Giving them lots of time on the ball. I will expect everyone in the back six to be involved in that. Our wide players will get up and down the pitch all match if they need to. If we happen to get pressured back into our own third we will stop the pressuring but go very compact instead, and only squeeze spaced out wide to prevent crosses being thrown in. We wait it out and attack again.
The block of four of CBs and CM/DM will form a four man block around their striker(s) when out of possession. Midfield will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line. AM will come back in the defending phase to help win the ball back with the two midfielders or receive the ball to launch a quick attack when they lose the ball.
Set piece defending is man to man, his centre halves will need to be watched carefully by our centre halves.
Attacking
We shift our shape as soon as we get on the ball becoming a lop sided back three. The LB will tuck in, entire defense shifting a wee bit to the right, and the right back playing as a right winger as he’s good at crossing. Midfield two stay as they are, the right winger will tuck into the space behind the striker sharing the space with the other AM. Essentially becoming a 3-2-4-1. The two in the middle will be there to mainly help us recycle the ball efficiently. It will be a staggered pivot to help provide progression.
Hummels Evans Shaw
Fabinho Kroos
Trent Kulu Modric Oyar
Immobile
The two directly behind the striker will be targeted with direct passes in halfspaces. The right back turned right winger and the left winger will provide offensive width.
Subs
Winning
75 - We will need to lock the game down and close it off while giving the midfield some energy. We will bring on Goretzka for Modric and have him in midfield in a 4-3-3.
75 - Kulu’s legs may tire towards the end of the game so we bring on Llorente in his place to help chase down balls.
80 - Jota for Oyar, same reason as above.
Drawing/Losing
65 - Clearly we need to change it up a bit, therefore we take off Modric and bring on Llorente to provide more penetration in attacking mid
75 - If we're still not winning, we bring on Goretzka for Fabinho, he'll sit at the base of midfield providing more driving force while being solid and holding the midfield together.
85 - We will bring on Ings on for Kulu and go 442 with Llorente moving to the right, two strikers up front (Ings Immobile) and Kroos Goretzka in the middle.
If we get into a winning position after any of the drawing/losing subs, we go 4-4-2 to make sure that we have two banks of four to effectively defend the lead, while playing on the counter attack.
posted on 7/2/21
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
posted on 7/2/21
Attacking 4-3-3
At home we play an attacking 4-3-3 to dominate possession, best form of defence is them not having the ball. Push the front three high up the pitch, our defence taking a high line for our possession play, don’t let the opposition out.
As you’d expect with a possession gameplan we will be patient in the first two thirds of the park, this means we will move the ball quickly and at pace but will not force the play, let them chase us tiring them physically and mentally. Fernandes is the exception as we give him freedom to play more direct balls from deeper areas.
In the final third we give all players freedom to use their quality to create and produce magic to open up the opposition.
Up top we go with a front 3 full of pace, the wingers stay high and wide in possession, stretching Wolves defence and setting the side up perfectly for the possession play. In front of the defence Luiz and Thiago’s are the perfect two for the possession, play with Fernandes playing an Iniesta role as attacking Cm with freedom to drift. Everyone in their best position, in a formation and system that suits everyone playing their natural game.
Both cbs are strong defensively, with great physicality. Luiz in front offering a strong, athletic dm presence. The rest of the midfield and attackers are tasked with pressing the ball, Thiago offers intelligence in midfield a master at pressing the space, Fernandes brings energy and intensity. The front three also hard working and will press in high areas and win the ball back quickly.
The central trio have the quality to dominate possession with the cbs behind them. We have a front three full of pace, looking to stretch the opposition and create space for our midfielders to exploit.
In defence Luiz drops behind the other two cms who press the play as the trio narrow, similarly in attack Luiz stays deepest but the trio do not play so narrow. We have a defence full of pace and great energy in front so play a reasonably high line, helping us press Wolves in high areas, and aiding distribution out from the back line.
Laporte the main man marker as he is the stronger physically and can dominate in the air next to Marquinhos who is free to use his reading of the game and pace to sweep up. If they go with two up top, both cbs man mark, and we always keep one fb back. In midfield, the trio narrow in front with the cm opposite play dropping behind, allowing the other two to press with cover. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play. Win the ball back from Wolves quickly before they can get anywhere.
Quick passing and moving to find space in between the opposition lines. Using the pace of our wide forwards and fbs (one bombs forward at a time) to create space as we push forward.
We have a cm duo who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid front three, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.
As we move forward we get quick one twos in the opposition half. With this fluid front three, Thiago supports creating and linking the play, Fernandes gets in and around the box looking for the final ball or shooting.
Positional structure, in addition to our technical players will be key to our quick passing possession gameplan going forward. Our approach in build up is to play a flexible asymmetric shape, giving bodies on different lines to increase the options we have in possession, and to create gaps in the opposition, and space for our players.
————————————— Allison———————————
Carvajal ——Marquinhos —— Laporte —— D.Alaba
————————————— D.Luiz————————————
————————- Thiago.A —— B.Fernandes —————
—————————————————————————————
Sterling ——————— L.Martinez ————— S.Mane
Subs. Henderson, Theo.H, Mount, Felix, Zaha, Jesus, Osimhen
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and press them high up the park.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
As Wolves advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-3-2. Winger on the side of play drops deep and Luiz drops behind the other two cms pressing the space behind the two cms pressing the ball, sweeping up danger behind them and in front of the defence.
Lautaro and the remaining wide forward in the space in between the opposition defence and midfield, and either side of their dm. This will make it difficult for their to dm to circulate possession back to their defence.
The wide man on the side of play that drops and the two cms (Thiago and Fernandes) are the trio pressing the ball, and look to force Wolves backwards. With the two forwards left forward this is where we look to press the opposition into mistakes and win the ball in high areas. With pace to join the attack quickly and overload Wolves.
When Wolves get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Jesus for Lautaro. More pace up top.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Mount for Fernandes. Strong defensively and hard working, fresh energy in Cm.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Zaha for Sterling. More fresh pace.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Jesus for Sterling and and Theo for Alaba. More direct wide forward, more attacking fb on left.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Mount for Luiz. Thiago to dm.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Mount for Luiz. Thiago to dm.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Felix for Carvajal. 3-6-1.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Osimhen for Bruno. Big man up top. 3-5-2.
posted on 7/2/21
-----------------------Neuer
---------Soyuncu---White----Hermoso
Castagne--------------------------------Guerreiro
------------------SMS-------Foden
-------Chiesa--------Kane-------Ocampos
Pope
Walker
Brozovic
Alberto
Barnes
Musah
Malen
An emalgamation of a 3-4-2 and a 5-4-1 operating today, as we look to combine playing attacking, progressive football, whilst also countering the obvious threats that Tottenham possess. A three at the back gives us both stable footing for our quick possession style, whilst also allowing us extra bodies back to try and snuff out their threats. We have plenty of energy in the wide areas to try and successfully run the line, and the two in midfield both ooze quality and ability, whilst also being hard working in their own right. These attributes play to the strengths of the system we have adopted, a high intensity press across the pitch when the opposition has possession (adopting a slightly rigid 5-4-1 formation), and breaking quickly, with fluid movement, and quick passing (transitioning to a 3-4-3) should we regain possession. Unlike recent weeks, we intend to push wide and stretch the pitch, as opposed to flooding and congesting the midfield. This is due to the quality we possess in the wide areas.
Defensively, we have three players both comfortable on the ball and willing to get stuck in, with levels of physicality to back that up. I have opted for Ben White in the centre of the back three due to his experience stepping up into a holding midfield position, and believe that he can contribute in this way when we take possession, providing another body in the centre of the pitch. Soyuncu and Hermoso are on their natural sides, benefitting them. In terms of movement of the ball, I want to see it quickly spread into the wide areas, namely to the respective FB, and cross field balls are also acceptable, looking to open up the play. SMS will also drop off the midfield pivot, dropping deeper to offer another outlet, and then trying to drive the ball forward from this position, meaning that our CBs avoid carrying the ball forward excessive distances, and can keep their shape and position. Castagne and Guerreiro will stick in their wide positions, dropping into conventional FB roles when we are off the ball, but pushing forward as bombarding WBs when we hold possession. They should do this both on and off the ball to provide extra options in the attacking areas. When we lose possession, the back five should be adopted, with the FBs tucking inside, to make a rigid backline. The midfield (including wingers) should drop deep, making it hard to play through the bodies we pack behind the ball, inviting the pressure, and then trying to quickly break. The press we put on the possession will be deeper, operating in the first and middle third, so as not to disrupt the shape we adopt.
When the ball progresses up the field, Foden should sit off Kane, with Chiesa and Ocampos holding slightly inside. Kane is the focal point, and we play through him, however, it is likely that the opposition will man mark Kane, so it is important that we use him to provide space across the third, drawing CBs away from their positions, and allowing our inside forwards to exploit the space in behind. The WBs will look to run the touchline, adding to our width, and trying to make the most of space vacated by FBs tracking the wide attackers. If the FBs don’t track, then the wide attackers should have more space to work their magic. Both players are direct, quick, and tricky, and I want to see driving runs both at the defence and in behind it. SMS operates mainly as an 8 today, being the dynamic, energetic force in the midfield pivot. I want to see fewer runs into the box, and more runs across the line, supporting the wider players with a more central option. However, spreading the play wide and attacking through these areas is key to our gameplan. If we attack quickly, we hope to exploit any evidence of a high line, with the players capable of getting in behind and making a nuisance. A natural part of threat from wide areas are balls into the box, and in Kane we have a striker capable of competing physically, both aerially and on the ground, and an instinctive finisher. I don’t want to see Kane running the channels himself, sticking between the posts to make the most threat. Kane will drop off when off the ball, towards the centre circle, which is, roughly speaking, where our press should engage. Kane is the front of our midfield hymen, protecting the backline in these key areas.
Substitutions
If winning
Start by having the Fbs less agressively attacking, and sitting slightly deeper.
Brozovic on for SMS 70 mins
Fresh legs in a thankless position, and a slightly more reserved option more used to shielding the defence.
Musah and Barnes on for Foden and Chiesa 77 mins
Musah a less adventurous player than Foden, operating as a deep B2B player alongside Brozovic, who sits as a 4. Barnes gives us fresh legs on the left, looking to help hit opponents on the counter as they mount pressure. If one substitute used for red card then prioritise Musah on for Foden.
If losing/drawing
Brozovic on for White 70 mins
Change to a 4-3-3, with Brozovic operating as a recognised 4 sitting deeper.
Malen on for SMS 75 mins
Change to a 4-4-2, with Malen playing just off Kane in the attacking two.
Red Card Substitutions
May change shape to a 4-3-2 in most circumstances. Assume Ocampos drops into midfield three unless otherwise stated.
Neuer – Pope on for White. 4-3-2.
Castagne – Walker on for White. 4-3-2
Soyuncu, White, and Hermose – Change to 4-3-2
Guerreiro – Walker on for White. Castagne over to LB. 4-3-2.
SMS – Brozovic on for White. 4-3-2.
Foden – Alberto on for White. 4-3-2.
Chiesa – Malen on for White. 4-3-2.
Ocampos – Brozovic on for White. 4-3-2.
Kane – Malen on for White. 4-3-2.
posted on 8/2/21
SOTON vs Sheffield United
-----------------------------------Ramsdale-----------------------
----------Upamecano----------Demiral---------Fofana------------------
---------------------------------------Ndidi------------------------------------
-----------------------Valverde-----------Lo Celso------------------------
Bailey---------------------------------------------------------------Pulisic
--------------------------Jovic------------Rashford----------------------------
Subs - Dest, Ait-Nouri, Camavinga, Szoboszlai, Reinier, Richarlison
CAPTAIN - UPAMECANO
CK'S - LO CELSO
FK'S - LO CELSO
PENALTIES - RASHFORD
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't 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
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. Upamecano and Fofana will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to close down the oppo wingers. Demiral in the middle will marshall the defence and look to snuff out any attacks from the oppo striker/s. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.
Defence Mid
Ndidi
Ndidi 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.Help out Upamecano and Fofana if they come up against a winger on the wings. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or to the CM's. Also be on the lookout for the runs of Pulisic/Adama and thread dangerous through balls to them.
Centre Mids
Valverde + Lo Celso
Valverde will be playing as a b2b CM today. He will pick the ball up from deep and use his technique and vision to find the runs of our attacking players and thread deadly passes to them. Play quick passes forward and use your agility to outmanoeuvre the oppo players. Play 1 2 quick passes with your teammates and make penetrating runs from deep. When not in possession of the ball I want him to drop deep in central midfield and try and intercept any passes the oppo will make. Shoot if you have a chance to.
Lo Celso will have a similar role to Valverde except he will be given more attacking freedom. I want him to always make runs forward and when the oppo DM has the ball I want him to put pressure on him and close him down so he makes a mistake and we potentially create a goal scoring opportunity. Use your nimbleness and pace to get away from players marking you in the middle and if you find some space shoot. If you see Ndidi and Valverde struggling in the middle being overwhelmed by the oppo then I want you to focus on helping them more defensively in the centre of midfield.
Wingers
Bailey + Pulisic
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Pulisic will be looking to cut in from the left and Adama will be looking to do similar by cutting in from the right, and to either open up space to shoot or to pass infield to their teammates. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of your teammates close to you and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. If there is no space to cut in then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Jovic to get his head on. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack. If we get to the byline with either of the wingers I want them to either whip in a low ball across the face of the net for our strikers to poke home or pull the ball back to just outside the box for Valverde/Lo Celso to get a shot in.
Strikers
Marcus Rashford MBE
Rashford is a striker that has the deadly combination of pace and finishing. He will look to use his pace to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to fund spaces in the oppo defence.
Luka Jovic
Jovic will look to use his strength and hold up play to bring others into the game. Try and get in front of the oppo defenders and use your aerial ability to win the header and either pass the header to a teammate or get a shot on goal. Try to make runs off the shoulders of the oppo defence aswell sometimes just to mix it up and give the oppo defenders something else to think about.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Szoboszlai for Lo Celso and Adama for Bailey to bring some more attacking impetus on. Reinier on for Valverde aswell and a small position change in midfield. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
-----------------------------------Ramsdale-----------------------
----------Upamecano----------Demiral---------Fofana-----------------
--------------------------------------Ndidi------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adama------------------Szobo---------Reinier-------------------Pulisic
--------------------------Jovic------------Rashford----------------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Lo Celso and put on Camavinga in DM. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. . Take the wingers off and put on Dest and Sit Nouri as wingbacks who'll offer a lot more defensive stability.
-----------------------------------Ramsdale-----------------------
----------Upamecano-------Demiral---------Fofana----------------
-------------------Camavinga--------------Ndidi------------------------------
Dest------------------------------Valverde--------------------Ait-Nouri
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------Jovic--------Rashford-------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Adama on for Bailey
Szoboszlai on for Pulisic
Reinier on for Jovic
Fresh legs to bring on.
posted on 8/2/21
--------------------- Mendy --------------------
Cancelo --- De Ligt --- Ramos --- Reguilon
------------------- Casemiro ------------------
---------- De Bruyne --- B.Silva -------------
J.Sancho ------ Griezmann ------ E.Hazard
Subs:
Sanchez, Emerson, Ake, Aouar, Fabian, Dybala, Morata
Captain: Ramos
Free Kicks: De Bruyne
Penalties: De Bruyne
Corners: Wingers
Tactics:
After a busy week in the transfer market the Spurs faithful have had more than just a North London Derby victory to celebrate as we welcome two big name signings.
There's a real buzz around the club at the moment and the arrival of none other than Paulo Dybala and Bernardo Silva only serve to increase the belief that this current crop of players can achieve special things.
With the squad arguably at the strongest it's ever been competition for places is fierce which ensures everyone remains at the top of their game. In today's match up B.Silva gets the nod from the start linking up with his partner in crime KDB in AM whilst Dybala will be looking to prove his worth from the bench as he looks to impress.
We know Lubo will have been doing his homework prior to the game however we aim to catch him off guard as we switch from our usual 4-2-3-1 to an attacking 4-3-3. High press, twin AMs, a front three, it has all the ingredients for beautiful free flowing attacking football. As always we aim to put on a show and go for goals!
Defence:
We seem to be up against top attackers every week and this game will be no different as they likely go with their main man Kane up top. We aim to limit his threat by starving him of the ball, our lineup is one that can dominate possession and for all his quality we know that Kane can cut a frustrated figure when he doesn't see the ball and has a tendency to drop deeper and deeper, limiting his effectiveness in attack.
When he does have ball we have the perfect man for the job, step forward the master of the dark arts himself Sergio Ramos. Strong, aggressive and one of the best readers of the game out there we want him to man mark. De Ligt will act as cover, either picking up their other CF or sweeping up and covering in behind. The Dutchman sweeping up from the back and immediately looking to get us on the counter with his fantastic vision and passing.
At fullback we have our superb Iberian greyhounds, pace to burn and they can run all day. As usual stick tight to their wingers and don't give them an inch. When in possession both Cancelo and Reguilon have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third. When they are in possession we sit deep, limiting the space in behind and drawing them further up the field creating space for us to hit them on the counter.
Midfield:
Casemiro will be our holding player in the middle. An all action player we rely on his fantastic tenacity and high level work rate to break up the opposition play, winning back possession and setting us up on the counter as we look to get the ball into our creative players as quickly as possible. He’ll pick up their most advanced AM and cut out their supply line. He’s also a fantastic passer which will be key in winning the midfield battle and ball retention.
Further up the field is where things get really exciting as we go with twin AM's and creators in chief De Bruyne and B.Silva. We look to get them on the ball as much as possible. Both fantastic engines and their off the ball work will contribute to shutting down the opposition and winning back possession however it is in the final third we expect them to shine. Playing with twin AM’s we will create real problems to their DM. No idea how Leeds line up these days however the loss of Partey may well leave them vulnerable in this area and in KDB and B.Silva we have the perfect players to exploit any weakness.
It will be a case of pick your poison with both players offering fantastic vision and a killer through ball as we look for the fantastic movement of our front three who will be consistently be looking to get in behind.
Both KDB and Bernardo are also encouraged to go for goal direct. KDB in particular has a fantastic strike from distance whilst Bernardo is more than capable of dribbling past players and firing off a strike himself.
Forwards:
In attack we go for goals. Sancho and Hazard play high up the field, a quick look at their injuries suggest they'll be missing defensive lynchpin Hernandez and we look to exploit any weaknesses in their backline.
We want them to really press up high, forcing the opposition back which creates space for our AM’s to exploit. Both wingers are deadly in one on one's and we encourage them to go at the opposition and go for goal.
A key to our attack will revolve around the link up play of De Bruyne, B.Silva & Griezmann. We want Griezzy to mix up his play, drop deep pulling their CB with you whilst also looking to play on the shoulder of the last man. A man in fine form we feel he has the perfect link up play for this role and could also see plenty of chances fall his way.
With an attack of KDB, B.Silva, Sancho, Hazard & Griezmann we feel we have the tools to outgun the opposition and with Dybala lurking in the background, we really do have an attack firing on all cylinders.
If winning:
75 mins: B.Silva & Hazard off, Ake & Aouar on. Shut up shop time as we move to 5-4-1 to see out the win.
80 mins: Griezmann off, Dybala on. Give the new man a chance to shine against tiring legs.
If drawing/losing:
75 mins: B.Silva & Reguilon off, Dybala & Morata on. We pile on the pressure as we switch to 3-4-3. Griezmann & Dybala playing either side of Morata in a deadly front three.
Red card scenario:
In all scenario’s we revert to a 4-4-1 formation. B.Silva will be replaced with one of the below whilst our wingers drop back in a 4 man midfield. Little change from a tactical perspective as we form a tight unit and pick off the opposition on the break as they commit men forward.
-------------------- Mendy --------------------
Cancelo --- De Ligt -- Ramos --- Reguilon
Sancho - Casemiro -- De Bruyne - Hazard
----------------- Griezmann -----------------
GK – Sanchez
FB – Emerson
CB - N.Ake
CM – Aouar
WG/ST – Dybala
posted on 12/2/21
City vs PORTSMOUTH
Tough game this against the Citizens in their own back yard, already had a scally offer to look after the team coach, yea I know I know, I thought it was a scouse thing to, but it seems their Lancastrian cousins are as bad.
Hard to call how Rof the master tactician will line up today but it’s the cup and we’re taking it seriously with our strongest side (allowing for injuries) and a “normal-ish” formation.
Possession based football, doesn’t have to be quick paced, we’re more than capable of holding onto the ball and taking the sting out of this City side. We have a clinical attack and we know that chances will arrive, we have the man-power to put these chances away and keep the underdog story going.
……………………………………Ederson…………………………..
Bellerin……………….Dias………………Romagnoli…..……Hysaj
……………………………………Busquets………………………………..
…………………………..Kessie…………Koke……………………
…………………Ronaldo………………………….Insigne……………..
……………………………………Belotti……………………………….
Subs: Turati (GK), Bonucci, Chiellini, Eriksen, Zielinski, Aguero, Jiminez
The 4-3-2-1 allows to keep this central-core strength, gives us the opportunity to control possession and gives us the creative freedom to get bodies into City’s box and get us the goals we need to progress to the next round.
Ederson is a genuine world class keeper, big strong and athletic, quick off his line, but the one skill that is useful to us is his distribution, he’s good at picking a pass and that will be used today to keep hold of the ball and control the game.
People say the Diamond is too narrow, but these people need to watch the Milan side with Cafu and Zambrotta to see that the full-backs have ample opportunity to get forward and create that width, Bellerin and Hysaj will both go, doesn’t matter which side we’re attacking from as their supporting run will take a defensive runner away and give us more space. Get to the bye-line and bang some crosses in. Defensively just be sensible, Don’t dive in, show the man the line – if you do dive in atleast play the man. Slow the game down and give us chance to reset.
Dias and Romagnoli are a top quality pairing, they go zonal today not sure if Rof sticks to the side that played mid-week if that’s the case we know we’re in for a physical battle but these two can deal with that, in possession again keep it simple there’s always an option in our side to take the ball.
Busquets, is there a better defensive midfielder in the world than he? He’ll sit in front of the back-line and cut the threat off at source – perfect captain material and will marshall the players around him, when we have the ball he’ll move up a bit but never too high up as to be caught out, always been a comfortable player in possession and he’ll just recycle it. He allows the Full-backs to really push on and because he’s sitting deep he can fill in at either flank whilst our FB’s retreat.
Kessie is a machine and will take the battle to City’s midfielders, he’s like a prime Kante but with goals in his game, he’ll go box to box. Very comfortable with the ball at his feet he’ll drive the ball on looking to turn the City midfield and get at their defence, defensively he’ll harry the man on the ball, getting on his touch and trying to force the errors early.
Koke is playing as the Regista – everything will go through him and with Busquets just behind him they are more than capable of passing the ball about, probing City’s defensive set-up and looking to spring a quick change through the gears to exploit the gaps we’ve created in their defence. Defensively, Koke is more than a Pirlo type Regista, he’s mobile and hard working, he’ll drop off a few yards and join up with Busquets as we create a 2 man shield. Both Busquets and Koke work in tandem with their CB – The CM tries to get in front of the striker and the CB gets close to the back, like a second shadow – this gives Benz/Lukaku no time to bring the ball down in a composed manner, we all know Lukaku has never had a first touch, granted his second is often a goal.
Insigne is the number 10, small, quick and a great low centre of balance (nice way of saying short no?) will look to play between the lines – the centre of the pitch will be congested especially if City go 3-5-2 but he’ll have the freedom to drift wide and try to find that bit more space to operate in, dropping deep to collect from the midfielders, and then allowing Kessie to surge past him will also give him a bit more space to operate in.
Belotti – One criticism I hear about my strike-force is that they’re not always the hardest working, Belotti comes in, to replace Aguero, he gives us a more physical figurehead and an increased work-rate without lessening our ability to score goals, he very much will be the central striker, pinning atleast one of the centre-backs in the centre of the goal to keep a watchful eye, defensively he’ll harry the defenders making them rush passes and try to create turnover in a dangerous spot.
Ronaldo is the archetypal inside forward, he like Insigne is given a free role, but where as Lorenzo is a play-maker, Cristiano is very much a finisher (he’s very much not on the wing) we match him up against the LCB of City, run the diagonals and try to find some spaces, use Belotti as a spring board, play It into him and then move back into space.
Subs 65 mins regardless
Chiellini and Bonucci > Dias and Romagnoli – like for like, a physical battle takes it out of the legs so this is a freshen up.
Aguero > Belotti. Like for like, Aguero finding gaps in a tiring defence will be a murder.
posted on 12/2/21
Bournemouth (4-3-3) FA Cup Quarter Finals
Captain: Ibañez
Vice-Captain: Simón
-----------------Simón
Molina--Ibañez--Araújo----Olivera
-------Guimarães----Pessina
---------------Gonçalves
Antony--------------------------Suárez
------------------Núñez
SUBS: Maximiano, Aarons, Carmo, Assunção, Azate, Sancet, Paulo
SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Guimarães) who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (Pessina). In front of them Gonçalves will operate as the link between midfield and attack. This I feel will give us a better balanced midfield and while being absolutely defensively sound with 2 ‘sitting’ Pessina will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Gonçalves and attack. I think this set-up lets us link up quickly with our attack while at the same time that little bit of extra cautiousness means it will be easy for us to close the door in midfield with all 3 players as comfortable sitting and breaking up attacks if necessary.
We want to play a nice tidy and crisp passing game. Our aim is to move the ball forward as quickly and as effectively as possible. When we have the ball we will use it wisely and when we don’t have the ball then we will press our opponents all over the park with high urgency to win it back. We want to keep the ball on the deck and attack as a team and equally as important defend as a team. This team is bursting with pace. We will utilise that to our advantage and make the pitch wide and use our flying wingers to cause all sorts of mayhem. It will also be a tool that we use to hit opponents on the counter where we know we can out pace any team.
Goalkeeper: Simón is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: We will operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Guimarães). He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Pessina). He has a more conservative role this week and while being a little more constrained than normal he will still have the opportunity to bomb forward when the time is right. They will both have to put a defensive shift in and both are very strong in the tackle. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition. In front of them Gonçalves will operate as the link between midfield and attack.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Antony and Suárez will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Gonçalves, Pessina and Núñez in to play. They can vary their attacks as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Pessina may sit a bit deeper allowing Gonçalves to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF.
As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Núñez starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great playing off the shoulder of the last man he is deadly in and around the box. A bag of energy and very strong we will also look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his lightning pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Gonçalves, Suárez or Antony with Ibañez, Araújo, Guimarães and Núñez to offer an aerial threat. Gonçalves and Suárez (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Substitutions: (75 mins) If winning (and comfortable) then 3 like for like subs – Carmo for Ibañez, Assunção for Guimarães and Paulo for Núñez.
If losing (70 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Pessina with Paulo and Antony with Sancet. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
------------Guimarães
Sancet---Gonçalves---Suárez
--------Paulo -----Núñez
posted on 13/2/21
Attacking 4-2-3-1
In the cup, we play an attacking 4-2-3-1 to attack down the wings and giving the front four freedom. Push the front four high up the pitch, our defence taking a high line to squeeze up the play, don’t let the opposition out.
Quick direct attacking play. We get the full backs bombing forward on both sides, Neves and Rodri stay relatively deep offering cover.
It’s the cup so we give all players freedom to use their quality to create and produce magic to open up the opposition.
Up top we go with a front 3 full of pace, the wingers stay high and wide in possession, stretching defence and setting the side up perfectly to give Bruno freedom. In front of the defence Rodri and Neves offer a solid mix and are perfect for spreading the play. Fernandes playing in a free role as the number 10, getting in the hole, and in between the Ârśē players. Everyone in their favourite position, making sure we’re on top. Get all over them. In a formation and system that suits everyone playing their natural game.
Both cbs are strong defensively, with great physicality. Rodri in front offering a strong, athletic dm presence. The rest of the midfield and attackers are tasked with pressing the ball, Neves offers intelligence in midfield a master at pressing the space, Fernandes brings energy and intensity. The front three also hard working and will press in high areas and win the ball back quickly.
The central trio have the quality to dominate possession with the cbs behind them. We have a front three full of pace, looking to stretch the opposition and create space for our midfielders to exploit.
In defence the dms narrow to the side of play, similarly in attack Rodri stays deepest but the duo do not play so narrow. We have a defence full of pace and great energy in front so play a reasonably high line, helping us press Arsenal in high areas, and aiding distribution out from the back line.
Laporte the main man marker as he is the stronger physically and can dominate in the air next to Marquinhos who is free to use his reading of the game and pace to sweep up. If they go with two up top, both cbs man mark, and we always keep one fb back. In midfield, the trio narrow in front with the cm opposite play dropping behind, allowing the other two to press with cover. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play. Win the ball back from Arsenal quickly before they can get anywhere.
Quick passing and moving to find space in between the opposition lines. Using the pace of our wide forwards and fbs (one bombs forward at a time) to create space as we push forward.
We have a cm duo who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid front three, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.
As we move forward we get quick one twos in the opposition half. With this fluid front three, Neves supports creating and linking the play, Fernandes gets in and around the box looking for the final ball or shooting.
Positional structure, in addition to our technical players will be key to our quick passing possession gameplan going forward. Our approach in build up is to play a flexible asymmetric shape, giving bodies on different lines to increase the options we have in possession, and to create gaps in the opposition, and space for our players.
—————————————- Allison ———————————
Carvajal ——Marquinhos —— Laporte —— Angelino
——————————— Rodri —— Neves—————————
—————————————————————————————
Sterling ——————— B.Fernandes ———— S.Mane
———————————— L.Martinez —————————
Subs. Henderson, D.Luiz, Thiago, Mount, Felix, Jesus, Osimhen
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and press them high up the park.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
As Arsenal advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble the 4-2-3-1. The two cms sitting behind the attacking trio pressing the ball, sweeping up danger behind them and in front of the defence.
Lautaro in the space in between the opposition defence and midfield, and either side of their dm. This will make it difficult for their to dm to circulate possession back to their defence.
When Arsenal get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Jesus for Lautaro. More pace up top.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Mount for Fernandes. Strong defensively and hard working, fresh energy in Cm.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Douglas Luiz for Neves. Fresh pace and power.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Mount for Neves and and Jesus for Lautaro.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Osimhen for Sterling. Jesus wide
If losing after 65 mins bring on Mount for Neves.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Felix for Angelino 3-6-1.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Osimhen for Bruno. Big man up top. 3-5-2
posted on 13/2/21
------------------------- Martinez ------------------------
-------- B.Pavard ----- Skriniar ----- P.Torres --------
Danilo -------- Soucek -------- Prowse -------- Sandro
------------------------- Grealish -------------------------
----------------- A.Silva -------- Werner ----------------
Lafont, Gosens, T.Mendes, Ziyech, Maddison, Coman, G.Moreno
we go in looking to attack and score goals and play with freedom.
When we don't have the ball, we will press high up the pitch, conceding very little space, Grealish will look to steal the ball within the attacking third and hopefully, quickly get it to those ahead of him. We do not give them any time on the ball and our front 2 prevent their defence hanging on to it too long or trying to play form the back as we pressurise them all the time.
If they do get to our half then we have a strong back 3 and double pivot ahead to prevent play through the middle, meaning they will need to push wide, whichever side they attack from tho I want Grealish to push to that side again to close them down and support the wingbacks, lots of pace in the front three to get at players.
When we have the ball it starts from the back moving the ball around between defence and centre midfield until the moment arrives when a pass can be made through to the front line, , there is no rush, if they come pressing we simply move it to the wide areas for them to bomb down the line and look to either cut it back or get a pass into the front three.
Martinez is our sweeper keeper, he always makes himself big, I want him involved with the defence playing out, if he has the ball I want him to find players especially the wingbacks when we are ready to attack
Pavard & Torres, Cover the wingbacks and take the ball out of defence, use there positional sense well as they may be out paced., must do this with confidence, if they lose the ball then all numbers back to cover, if they are being pressurised then a simple pass even back to the keeper and start again, stay wide (depending on what side) to cover wingbacks if they are forward.
Skriniar - He will press the opposition striker, when we lose the ball he needs to be on top of the CF very quickly, he must intercept everything, but he has the experience to do this, don't take any risks as the CF will also be on him so move it quickly when he gets it.
Danilo and Sandro, must work very hard, they have great work rate but this must done for the whole game, get down the line, get the crosses in, two great forwards to aim for, don't worry so much about whats behind you as their is plenty cover, I don't mean forget your defence duties, just play with a bit of freedom, crosses, one-twos, cut backs and all with pace to hurt them.
Although Soucek primary role in front of the defence 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 the No 10/SS is also a main focus, he isn't an out an out DM but he has a lot of grit and determination to his game so stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him. Also very good in front of goal and in the box for set pieces
Ward-Prowse has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for the front 3, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running he is expected to do and he does a lot. 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, he also has a mean shot from distance and isn't afraid to have a pop.
Grealish is in a free role I want him to dictate proceedings in the final third, either playing the through ball to the front two or use the wingers, pass in between the lines and give them something to run onto as the drive passed the defender, making late runs into the box and look for any loose ball to have a pop at goal, he, Silva & Werner are great finishers so look to make late runs into the area and latching onto crosses from wide areas, defending wise, I want him to harass who ever has the ball in that area, get it and move it forward as quickly as possible, also can draw players into him, therefore winning a lot of free kicks
Werner I want to be making all the runs behind the defence, a tirless worker always making it hard for defenders, I want him to drift wide and pull defenders away, quick and skillfull, look to move out to create an outlet for the wingbacks to use or indeed link with Grealish to get Silva away on goal, he and Silva both fantastic in the air, so while they aim for Werner, Silva will be making the late runs into the danger area and with a head start look to get up early and attack the crosses coming in.
Silva, must be able to hold up play for others to support, also run the channels, will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is also a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain Skriniar
Pens - A.Silva
Free Kicks - Grealish
Corners - Grealish
Losing
70 Mins - Ziyech for Danilo, Moreno for Sandro, Grealish left, Ziyech right, Moreno RCF, Werner LCF, Silvia CF 343 attacking
Drawing
70 Mins - Gosens for Sandro, Moreno for Silva
Winning -
80 Mins - T.Mendes for Werner inot midfield to shore it up, Gosens for Sandro
85 Mins - Moreno for Silva
posted on 13/2/21
Balanced 4-3-3
We look to at pace, quick passing throughout as we look to attack with power through the centre using the pace out wide to open up the opposition. Use that pace out wide to create space for Ndombele and Pogba.
The opposition have real quality in midfield, and so we look to hit them with pace. Putting them under pressure in uncomfortable positions, rush them and force them to go long where we will dominate in air. In midfield Tielemans is the dm allowing Ndombele and Pogba to attack. This duo coupled with the pace of our front trio will be key.
When we defend in a narrow 4141 formation, in a tight unit with not much space between the lines. Two players pressing the ball, Witsel defends zonally behind, and the other closest midfielder in the four blocking the passing lane forward. Force them back. We press in this unit as soon. As the opposition enter our half, let them have the ball in their own half.
With team defending in a narrow unit the wide midfielder comes in narrow helping to pick up any spare midfielders who find space or get behind the midfield press.
As a team we look to push the opposition out wide where they will be limited to crosses and we will have a better chance of clearing our lines.
Lukaku up top plays his natural game, he’s best running in behind the opposition or at them. We look to play with great width stretch the game and the opposition looking to create space for him in the middle. He’s not a target man, but he’s great in the air in the box. One fb bombs forward at a time, we look to get the Cm on each side out combining with the attacking fb and winger playing one twos and producing the magic to create for Lukaku.
—————————— Lloris
Hakimi — Koulibaly — Lenglet — L.Digne
—————————— Witsel
————— Ndombele —— Pogba
Dembele ——————————— Son Heung-M
—————————— Lukaku
Subs. Gulacsi, Rabiot, Tielemans, Nkunku, Diaby, Saint Maximin, Benzema
Defence
We press as soon as they enter our half and seek to contain the opposition in their own half. Defending our half.
When this press fails and the opposition push forward we retreat as a unit in the 4141 formation continuing to press in the same formation with two players pressing the ball. When the opposition beat the initial press and get into the final third, we continue to retreat as a unit getting numbers back and the defensive line finally drops to a deep line. We then allow them to retain possession in areas they can’t hurt us, waiting for the chance to press again and push them back. If they seek to recycle the ball and go back to defence we push out as a unit quickly. Two experienced cbs are key for this ensuring we keep a strong line.
The back 4 defend narrow on the side the opposition are attacking. Remove any space for their wide forwards to operate in. The wide midfielders get back, either helping the defending fb or going inside to the Cm allowing cm to press the play, leaving Tielemans in a central position to sweep in front of the defence.
If they seek to go back and switch the play we move over as a unit, seek to press them before they can switch up the park.
Koulibaly the defensive leader at the back, he is the man marker with Lenglet inteligence and both have pace to cover. The full backs always seek to push their attackers out wide.
Subs.
If winning or drawing after 70 mins bring on Nkunku for Dembele fresh pace and class out wide
If winning or drawing after 75 mins bring on Tielemans for Ndombele more defensive and fresh pace and power.
If winning after 78 mins bring on Saint Maximin for Lukaku, Son up top.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Benzema for Witsel. 442. Go for win.
If losing after 68 mins bring on Benzema for Ndombele and Tielemans for Witsel 4-2-2-2.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Nkunku for Dembele.
posted on 13/2/21
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
posted on 14/2/21
FA Cup
Wolverhampton Wanderers v SHEFFIELD UNITED
---------------------Kelleher
Lamptey, Kjaer, Ampadu, Grimaldo
-----------Gallagher, Höjbjerg
----Mahrez------James--------Isco
----------------------Suárez
Subs: Dubravka, Vrsaljko, Bernat, Veerman, Brooks, Verschaeren, Mertens
Captain: Kjaer
Free Kicks: James
Penalties: Suárez
Our defensive unit consists of Simon Kjaer and Ethan Ampadu paired up at centre-back, Tariq Lamptey at right-back and Álex Grimaldo at left-back, with Conor Gallagher and Pierre-Emile Höjbjerg as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Gallagher and Höjbjerg 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 Höjbjerg can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Gallagher 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 Höjbjerg's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Höjbjerg running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will be dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Conor Gallagher.
Gallagher 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 Gallagher such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Riyad Mahrez, James Rodríguez and Isco as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez 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 Gallagher or Höjbjerg, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Lamptey and Grimaldo can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Gallagher and Höjbjerg can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Riyad Mahrez and Isco, who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box.
James Rodríguez, our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders. James 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 with his quick flicks and one-touch passing, will combine exceptionally well with Mahrez, Isco & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.
Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Mahrez, James & Isco to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.
Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suárez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.
All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.
Subs on 75 mins
Brooks on for Mahrez and Mertens on for Isco
Double substitution - Lots of fresh pace and sublime dribbling skills in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line.
posted on 15/2/21
-------------------- Mendy --------------------
Justin --- E.Garcia --- Rudiger -- Reguilon
------------------- N.Kante -------------------
--------- De Bruyne --- De Beek ------------
L.Sane --------- A.Morata ------- M.Asensio
Subs:
Whiteman, Cancelo, De Ligt, Casemiro, Hazard, Griezmann, Abraham
Tactics:
We freshen up the side with 8 changes from our last outing, ensuring that everyone remains sharp and giving some of our fringe players a chance to shine in what is becoming an increasingly competitive squad. All players will be looking to prove their worth as we aim to continue our fine form and take a step closer to glory in the cup.
Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-3-3. We look to dictate the play and take the game to the opposition. Our dual AM's in support of our front three give us a high powered attack capable of causing real problems when we get in the final third.
When the opposition are in possession we sit deep, our CM’s marshalling the middle of the park, breaking down the opposition and setting up us on the counter. We feel that we have the perfect set up to open them up on the counter with terrific pace out wide which will cause problems all afternoon for their fullbacks.
Defence:
We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with pace and quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Rudiger will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Garcia will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top. The Spaniard sweeping up from the back and immediately looking to get us on the counter with his fantastic vision and passing.
Our fullbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have supporting cover in behind with Garcia also drifting across to offer additional support. When in possession both Justin and Reguilon have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third.
Midfield:
Kante will be our holding player in the middle. An all action player we rely on his fantastic tenacity, superb reading of the game and high level work rate to break up the opposition play, winning back possession and setting us up on the counter as we look to get the ball into our creative players as quickly as possible. He’ll pick up their most advanced AM and cut out their supply line.
Further up the field is we go with twin AM's and our creators in chief De Bruyne and De Beek. We look to get them on the ball as much as possible. Both fantastic engines and their off the ball work will contribute to shutting down the opposition and winning back possession however it is in the final third we expect them to shine. Playing with twin AM’s we will create real problems to their DM as we look to overload them in this area.
Both KDB and VDB are also encouraged to go for goal direct. KDB in particular has a fantastic strike from distance and capable of a thunderbolt at any given moment.
Forwards:
In attack we go for goals with a pair of lightening wingers and in form number 9. Sane and Asensio offer great quality from the flanks. Both will be direct, going at the opposition with speed. In one on one situations they can be deadly and with the opposition likely to be concerned with De Bruyne through the middle there is every chance these two can find space to expose on the flanks. With a powerhouse frontline we go for goals, both wingers will look to cause problems, cutting inside and going direct for goal one moment and driving down the line, bamboozling the opposition before whipping the ball into the box the next.
Morata plays through the middle and will have a talented supply line around him. The brief is simple, get into the box and put the ball in the back of the net. With the number of quality attackers, particularly in wide areas, he can expect quality service and the Spaniard is deadly in the air. As always he'll be on his toes ready to pounce on anything that chances that fall his way and with an area of quality around him he'll certainly be given the chance to stake his claim for the starting number 9 spot.
If winning:
75 mins: De Beek & Asensio off, Casemiro & De Ligt on. Shut up shop time as we move to 5-4-1 to see out the win.
80 mins: Morata off, Abraham on. Fresh legs up top as we look to pick them off on the break.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: De Beek & Garcia off, Hazard & Griezmann on. We pile on the pressure as we switch to 3-4-3 and bring on the heavy hitters. Griezmann & Hazard playing either side of Morata in a deadly front three as we go for goals.
posted on 17/2/21
CHELSEA v Newcastle
--------------------------- Oblak ----------------------------
W-Bissaka ----- S.deVrij ----- van Dijk ----- Jordi Alba
----------------- Dec Rice ------ F.de Jong ---------------
Mbappe ------------------ Ilicic ------------------ Neymar
-------------------------- Haaland --------------------------
Bounou, Kamara, Chilwell, Bentancur, Ferran, Musiala, Calvert-Lewin
We like playing from the back and quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front we do not allow them to play from the back or allow their midfield to dominate, as our front three play quite a high line, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with Declan Rice and de Jong ahead of them just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and our midfield will be in and around the half way line, Haaland slightly higher up always on top of the CBs stopping them passing between each other, defend from the front, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.
de Vrij picks up the CF not much gets passed him, van Dijk spare picks up the AM or any other player that's roams into the danger area, if they get away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly, Both comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, both must attack high balls to get the ball away from the opposition big men. Fullbacks keep the wingers quiet, stop their attacks 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. When they attack, only one at a time we cant afford be exposed, they drive down the line in support of the wingers drive on the outside making an extra man. If either get caught up field I want Rice to drift to the side with this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. This allows de Jong to stay central and pick up anyone else or indeed get the ball and get us moving, Ilicic also covers by dropping back to fill in the midfield even just to follow any defender that moves up field or to fill the gap Rice has made by moving to pick up men. van Dijk and de Vrij to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Rice sitting back.
Declan Rice is our deepest midfielder sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, will at times drop between the 2 Cbs to get the ball, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. de Jong will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defence as best as possible, in possession get it to the front 3/4 but also look for fullbacks as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Our midfield maestro Ilicic is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in an advanced No.10/CF role and look for the de Jong/Rice/CB pass. He will drop back at times to pick it up and will look to his dribbling and passing capabilities to get him around players, and into the danger area to unleash a powerful drive, sometimes taking a foul as he is a tricky player to mark. When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front.After the pass he can push wide or central to make that extra man When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart and create space for the front 3. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.
Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders our defenders are superb long ball passers, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Neymar will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Ilicic to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power and pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Haaland who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, especially Ilicic who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Ilicic/Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Losing/drawing
65 Mins - Calvert-Lewin for Ilicic, Chilwell for Alba we go 4-4-2/4-2-4, with Chilwell driving down the line, bringing on DCL he has someone to am for in the centre as he is magnificent in the air, and if he doesn't go for goal, he has others to knock down for, we focus more wing play after taking off a midfielder
Losing -
80 Mins - Chilwell to LM, Neymar to No.10, 3412 really pushing hard for a goal
Winning -
75 Mins - Bentancur for Ilicic, Rice drops back in between def/mid, Bentancur sit beside de Jong to shore up midfield
83 Mins - Calvert-Lewin for Haaland
posted on 18/2/21
--------------------------- Martinez --------------------------
---------- B.Pavard ----- Skriniar ----- P.Torres ----------
T.Correia ------- McTom ------- Prowse ------- R.Gosens
--------------------------- Grealish ---------------------------
----------------- A.Silva ------------ Werner ----------------
Bursik, Danilo, McGinn, Maddison, G.Moreno, Correa, Watkins
we go in looking to attack and score goals and play with freedom. They only have one recognised CB who is half decent so we really need to pressurise them at the back.
When we don't have the ball, we will press high up the pitch, conceding very little space, Grealish will look to steal the ball within the attacking third and hopefully, quickly get it to those ahead of him. We do not give them any time on the ball and our front 2 prevent their defence hanging on to it too long or trying to play form the back as we pressurise them all the time.
If they do get to our half then we have a strong back 3 and double pivot ahead to prevent play through the middle, meaning they will need to push wide, whichever side they attack from tho I want Grealish to push to that side again to close them down and support the wingbacks, lots of pace in the front three to get at players.
When we have the ball it starts from the back moving the ball around between defence and centre midfield until the moment arrives when a pass can be made through to the front line, , there is no rush, if they come pressing we simply move it to the wide areas for them to bomb down the line and look to either cut it back or get a pass into the front three.
Martinez is our sweeper keeper, he always makes himself big, I want him involved with the defence playing out, if he has the ball I want him to find players especially the wingbacks when we are ready to attack
Pavard & Torres, Cover the wingbacks when they have pushed forward and take the ball out of defence, use there positional sense well as they may be out paced., must do this with confidence, if they lose the ball then all numbers back to cover, if they are being pressurised then a simple pass even back to the keeper and start again, stay wide (depending on what side) to cover wingbacks if they are forward.
Skriniar - He will press the opposition striker, when we lose the ball he needs to be on top of the CF very quickly, he must intercept everything, but he has the experience to do this, don't take any risks as the CF will also be on him so move it quickly when he gets it.
Correia and Sandro, must work very hard, they have great work rate but this must done for the whole game, get down the line, get the crosses in, two great forwards to aim for, don't worry so much about whats behind you as their is plenty cover, I don't mean forget your defence duties, just play with a bit of freedom, crosses, one-twos, cut backs and all with pace to hurt them.
Although McTominay's primary role in front of the defence 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 the No 10/SS is also a main focus, he has a lot of grit and determination to his game so stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him. Also very good in front of goal and in the box for set pieces, if he makes a break forward Prowse will look just to sit in a bit.
Ward-Prowse has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for the front 3, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running he is expected to do and he does a lot. 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, he also has a mean shot from distance and isn't afraid to have a pop.
Grealish is in a free role I want him to dictate proceedings in the final third, either playing the through ball to the front two or use the wingers, pass in between the lines and give them something to run onto as the drive passed the defender, making late runs into the box and look for any loose ball to have a pop at goal, he, Silva & Werner are great finishers so look to make late runs into the area and latching onto crosses from wide areas, defending wise, I want him to harass who ever has the ball in that area, get it and move it forward as quickly as possible, also can draw players into him, therefore winning a lot of free kicks
Werner I want to be making all the runs behind the defence, a tirless worker always making it hard for defenders, I want him to drift wide and pull defenders away, quick and skillfull, look to move out to create an outlet for the wingbacks to use or indeed link with Grealish to get Silva away on goal, he and Silva both fantastic in the air, so while they aim for Werner, Silva will be making the late runs into the danger area and with a head start look to get up early and attack the crosses coming in. Again, really put the pressure on their back line, they are great going forward but today, pretty weak at the back
Silva, must be able to hold up play for others to support, also run the channels, will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is also a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain Skriniar
Pens - A.Silva
Free Kicks - Grealish
Corners - Grealish
Losing -
65 Mins - Angel Correa for Correia to RM, Grealish move to LM, Watkins for Gosens, we go 343 attacking, with Watkins going to RCF, hopefully too much for them to handle as the crosses come flying in
75 Mins - Moreno for Silva, a fresh forward for them to deal with as they tire
Drawing -
70 Mins - Watkins for Silva, Correa for Correia, fresh legs and a bit more attacking down the right
77 Mins - Moreno for Werner
Winning -
75 Mins - McGinn for Werner, he drops into midfield to shore it up
83 Mins - Moreno for Silva, fresh legs, waste time near the end, hold it up and all that
posted on 20/2/21
Attacking 4-3-3
We play an attacking 4-3-3 to dominate possession, best form of defence is them not having the ball. As you’d expect with a possession gameplan we will be patient in the first two thirds of the park, this means we will move the ball quickly and at pace but will not force the play, let them chase us tiring them physically and mentally. Fernandes is the exception as we give him freedom to play more direct balls from deeper areas.
In the final third we give all players freedom to use their quality to create and produce magic to open up the opposition.
Up top we go with a front 3 full of pace, the wingers stay high and wide in possession, stretching Bournemouth defence and setting the side up perfectly for the possession play. In front of the defence Rodri and Neves are the perfect two for the possession, play with Fernandes playing an Iniesta role as attacking Cm with freedom to drift. Everyone in their best position, in a formation and system that suits everyone playing their natural game.
Both cbs are strong defensively, with great physicality. Rodri in front offering a strong, athletic dm presence. The rest of the midfield and attackers are tasked with pressing the ball, Neves offers intelligence in midfield a master at pressing the space, Fernandes brings energy and intensity. The front three also hard working and will press in high areas and win the ball back quickly.
The central trio have the quality to dominate possession with the cbs behind them. We have a front three full of pace, looking to stretch the opposition and create space for our midfielders to exploit.
In defence Rodri drops behind the other two cms who press the play as the trio narrow, similarly in attack Rodri stays deepest but the trio do not play so narrow. We have a defence full of pace and great energy in front so play a reasonably high line, helping us press B’mouth in high areas, and aiding distribution out from the back line.
Laporte the man marker as he is the stronger physically and can dominate in the air next to Marquinhos who is free to use his reading of the game and pace to sweep up. In midfield, the trio narrow in front with the cm opposite play dropping behind, allowing the other two to press with cover. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play. Win the ball back from them quickly before they can get anywhere.
Quick passing and moving to find space in between the opposition lines. Using the pace of our wide forwards and fbs (one bombs forward at a time) to create space as we push forward.
We have a cm duo who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid front three, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.
As we move forward we get quick one twos in the opposition half. With this fluid front three, Neves supports creating and linking the play, Fernandes gets in and around the box looking for the final ball or shooting.
Positional structure, in addition to our technical players will be key to our quick passing possession gameplan going forward. Our approach in build up is to play a flexible asymmetric shape, giving bodies on different lines to increase the options we have in possession, and to create gaps in the opposition, and space for our players.
————————————— Allison ———————————
Carvajal ——Marquinhos —— Laporte —— D.Alaba
—————————————- Rodri ————————————
————————- R.Neves —— B.Fernandes —————
—————————————————————————————
Sterling ——————— L.Martinez ————— S.Mane
Subs. Henderson, R.James, Angelino, Mount, Felix, Neto, Jesus
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and press them high up the park.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
As B”mouth advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-3-2. Winger on the side of play drops deep and Rodri drops behind the other two cms pressing the space behind the two cms pressing the ball, sweeping up danger behind them and in front of the defence.
Lautaro and the remaining wide forward in the space in between the opposition defence and midfield, and either side of their dm. This will make it difficult for their to dm to circulate possession back to their defence.
The wide man on the side of play that drops and the two cms (Neves and Fernandes) are the trio pressing the ball, and look to force B’mouth backwards. With the two forwards left forward this is where we look to press the opposition into mistakes and win the ball in high areas. With pace to join the attack quickly and overload B’mouth.
When B’mouth get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Jesus for Lautaro. More pace up top.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Mount for Neves. Strong defensively and hard working, fresh energy in Cm.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Neto for Sterling.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Jesus for Sterling. More direct and goal scorer.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Felix for Carvajal. 3-5-2.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Mount for Neves.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Mount for Rodri. Neves to dm.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Felix for Sterling. Fresh trickery to get us back in it.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Neto for Carvajal. 3-5-2.
If a red card, Sterling off. 4-3-2.
If a fb, replace with fb. If cb, Alaba to cb, Angelino on.
If dm, Neves deep, Mount on. If Cm, Mount on.
If one of front 3, no subs till second half then usual subs on winning/draw/losing.
posted on 20/2/21
Balanced 4-3-3
We look to at pace, quick passing throughout as we look to attack with power through the centre using the pace out wide to open up the opposition. Use that pace out wide to create space for Ndombele and Tielemans.
The opposition have real quality in midfield, and so we look to hit them with pace. Putting them under pressure in uncomfortable positions, rush them and force them to go long where we will dominate in air. In midfield Witsel is the dm allowing Ndombele and Tielemans to attack. This duo coupled with the pace of our front trio will be key.
When we defend in a narrow 4141 formation, in a tight unit with not much space between the lines. Two players pressing the ball, Witsel defends zonally behind, and the other closest midfielder in the four blocking the passing lane forward. Force them back. We press in this unit as soon. As the opposition enter our half, let them have the ball in their own half.
With team defending in a narrow unit the wide midfielder comes in narrow helping to pick up any spare midfielders who find space or get behind the midfield press.
As a team we look to push the opposition out wide where they will be limited to crosses and we will have a better chance of clearing our lines.
Lukaku up top plays his natural game, he’s best running in behind the opposition or at them. We look to play with great width stretch the game and the opposition looking to create space for him in the middle. He’s not a target man, but he’s great in the air in the box. One fb bombs forward at a time, we look to get the Cm on each side out combining with the attacking fb and winger playing one twos and producing the magic to create for Lukaku.
—————————— Lloris
Hakimi — Koulibaly — Lenglet — L.Digne
—————————— Witsel
————— Ndombele —— Tielemans
Dembele ——————————— Son Heung-M
—————————— Lukaku
Subs. Gulacsi, Rabiot, Godfrey, Nkunku, Diaby, Benzema, Kean
Defence
We press as soon as they enter our half and seek to contain the opposition in their own half. Defending our half.
When this press fails and the opposition push forward we retreat as a unit in the 4141 formation continuing to press in the same formation with two players pressing the ball. When the opposition beat the initial press and get into the final third, we continue to retreat as a unit getting numbers back and the defensive line finally drops to a deep line. We then allow them to retain possession in areas they can’t hurt us, waiting for the chance to press again and push them back. If they seek to recycle the ball and go back to defence we push out as a unit quickly. Two experienced cbs are key for this ensuring we keep a strong line.
The back 4 defend narrow on the side the opposition are attacking. Remove any space for their wide forwards to operate in. The wide midfielders get back, either helping the defending fb or going inside to the Cm allowing cm to press the play, leaving Witsel in a central position to sweep in front of the defence.
If they seek to go back and switch the play we move over as a unit, seek to press them before they can switch up the park.
Koulibaly the defensive leader at the back, he is the man marker with Lenglet inteligence and both have pace to cover. The full backs always seek to push their attackers out wide.
Subs.
If winning or drawing after 70 mins bring on Diaby for Dembele fresh pace and class out wide
If winning after 75 mins bring on Nkunku for Tielemans.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Nkunku for Tielemans more attacking and fresh pace and power.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Diaby for Ndombele. 4-4-2. Diaby lm , Son up top.
If drawing after 85 mins bring on Kean for Dembele.
If losing after 68 mins bring on Diaby for Tielemans. 4-2-2-2. Son up top, Diaby left.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Rabiot for Witsel, box to box power and energy.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Kean for Dembele. Son left, Diaby right.
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