Watford: Carabao Cup Group A Round 3 (Home to Wolves)

U21: Júnior, Abner, Pavlovic, Veron, Damsgaard, Arezo, Sandry, Paulinho, Evanilson
U-19: Pitaluga
Captain: Felipe
Vice Captain: Moder

Team:
----------------Júnior
Dodô--Felipe—Morato---Angeliño
---------------Moder
------Svanberg---Damsgaard
Larsen--------------------------Paulinho
----------------Arezo

SUBS: Pitaluga, Abner, Collins, Azate, Willock, Veron, Evanilson

U21: Júnior, Abner, Morato, Veron, Damsgaard, Arezo, Paulinho, Evanilson
U-19: Pitaluga
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: Júnior 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: Moder 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. Svanberg and Damsgaard will play just in front of Moder. Svanberg will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Damsgaard 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 Larsen and Paulinho 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 Damsgaard, Svanberg and Arezo 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 Svanberg may sit a bit deeper allowing Damsgaard 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.

Arezo 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: Svanberg, Paulinho or Larsen with Felipe, Morato, Moder and Arezo to offer an aerial threat. Damsgaard and Paulinho (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Arezo

Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Collins for Morato, Evanilson for Arezo and Willock for Svanberg, 3 like for like substitutions.

If losing (on 70 minutes) Veron for Svanberg and Evanilson for Larsen. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Evanilson and Veron offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.

-------------Moder
Veron---Damsgaard---Paulinho
--------Arezo---Evanilson

ARSENAL to face Brentford

--------------------- Maignan ---------------------
----- W. Saliba --- Tapsoba --- Gabriel --------
Hakimi --- T. Partey -- Tielemans --- Tierney
------- Saka ------- Dybala ------ ESR -----------

Subs: Raya, Bruno Guimaeres, Salah-Eddine, Maddison, Diaby, J. Alvarez, Calvert-Lewin

We are going into this game with a more youthful injection, but lots of players who are used to being regulars, such is the nature of our youthful squad. We are sticking with the usual formation, so that these players are ready to break into the first team, if they are not there already. A tough game against Brentford, but one we feel that with the quality of player we have on show, we can win.

Hakimi – Hakimi’s qualities ensure he can offer us a dynamic outlet in possession and a strong defensive unit to combat what Brentford throw at us. As he advances up the right in an attacking sense, he has the freedom of that wing, with Saka as the RAM who likes to come inside with the ball ahead of him, this gives that right flank a serious double threat on the inside and out. On overlap he has one of the best final balls around, capable of scoring himself or picking out Dybala in that box and Smith Rowe.

Gabriel - Reads the game incredibly well and is very strong in the duel. Been excellent for Arsenal this season.

Saliba - Leader and ball playing CB at the heart of the defensive three. Saluba will sweep and be the one to ‘double up’ on their ST, with Tapsoba or Gabriel being the aggressor on their ST depending on the side he drifts too.

Tapsoba – We have real competition for places at the back, so Tapsoba will want to take his chance. He’s physically immense, strong and fast and works well at LCB.

Tierney - Defensively he has the pace, experience and tactical nous to snuff out what Brentford can throw at us. In possession, the presence of the back three behind him, allowing him to push on and combine with Smith Rowe to cause serious damage and overloads on the left. Combining with Smith Rowe to get past their RB could be a real good source of chances for us.

Partey – Partey has been chosen for his physical dominance and ability to turn and play at pace. The dynamic midfielder has the quality and experience to add to our midfield. With the attacking players ahead of him, Partey will sit and marshall the right half space, allowing Hakimi more attacking freedom. Partey has played at right back before so this is well suited. He will sit at the heart of midfield both in and out of possession, offering a shield to the defence and helping to nullify Brentford.

Tielemans – Tielemans is a baller and with three CBs and Partey, he has a bit more freedom in the CM role. He also has Smith Rowe ahead to interchange with! As we know, he has a bit of everything and Tielemans will dictate that left side of the midfield. Very calm on the ball, looking to progress and carry the ball through the lines when received from the central defenders. He should be the conductor. He is a master of slowing or quickening the tempo of a game. Will look to play the deep lying playmaker role today.

Saka - Scoring and assisting goals regularly for club and country this season, we want to give Saka a bit more freedom in some games, particularly where we want to win midfield battles. With Tielemans and Partey behind him, this trio have a bit of everything to help us take control of the game and transition really well. In this game he can drift wide right to combine with Hakimi to create overloads.

Smith Rowe - The Englishman has been excellent this season for Arsenal and now England. He’s brilliant in transition, running with the ball at pace and is now finding that final pass and shot to take him to the next level. Big chance for him today, and we’ve created familiarity around him to ensure he can deliver his best.

Dybala - The furthest forward of our team, he will use his energy to pressure the ponderous Brentford defenders and look to snap up mistakes. He will sniff out chances that Smith Rowe, Saka and the wing backs create / cross for him to do what he does best, dropping in to link the play at times, he creates the space for the quick duo of Saka and Smith Rowe to exploit and turn the pace in that final third.

SUBS
After 60 (all scenarios) - Julian Alvarez for Dybala
After 75 (all scenarios) - Bruno G for Partey

U21 - Lacroix, Mendes, Bellingham, Camavinga, Haaland, Lamptey, Adeyemi
U19 - A.Frances

-------------------------- Oblak ---------------------------

J.Cancelo ----- Lacroix ----- Bastoni ----- N.Mendes

------- Bellingham ---- D.Rice ---- Camavinga -------

---- Nkunku ---------- Haaland ---------- Mbappe ----

Pope, Lamptey, A.Frances, de Jong, Adeyemi, Mahrez, Malen

We play possession football, especially the midfield where we want to dominate, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, up against it but our trio has everything we need to stop them controlling the game, 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 the midfield ahead of them 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, this will congest the midfield and allow us to dictate play, 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 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.

Bastoni picks up the CF he wont let much passed him, Lacroix spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, both powerful boys so keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, look to intercept quickly, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get to our midfield quickly, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass to those in front 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, with the midfield 3 we have, then both can go at the same time to make extra numbers as we drive on, we look to gain that extra body(ies) in the opp half, If either get caught up field I want the midfielders to help them out by filling the gaps so we don't get exposed, this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. CBs to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Rice sitting back.

We have a midfield trio that has the lot. 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 he is relentless and wont give him the time of day, having a player like Rice allows more time for Camavinga and Bellingham to control the game and get moving forward, he is a cool head, he 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, he will drop in between the two CBS to pick up the ball and start from the back, 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. Bellingham & Camavinga 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 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. Bellingham and Camavinga move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Both are essential to our style of play, they are the link between defence and attack, as we break quickly they will look to set up our front three and push on, look to receive a pass and drive on. They will drop back at times to pick it up and will look to their dribbling capabilities to get them around players, and into the danger area to unleash a powerful drive. 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 they can make up the extra man further forward as Rice stays and covers. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on. When defending this is a tight 3 man midfield.

Our wingers are extremely quick and skillfull, 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 Nkunku and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Bellingham and Camavinga to pick their moments to move into space. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power/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 and the rest that have made their way into the danger area so they can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality at times, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers one of whom at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside depending which side we are attacking from, 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 - D.Rice
Penalties - Haaland
Free Kicks - Mbappe
Corners - Fullbacks

Losing -
55 Mins - Mahrez for Nkunku straight swap
65 Mins - Adeyemi for Camavinga, he goes up top 4-4-2/4-2-4
70 Mins - Lamptey for Cancelo, more attacking, alot of balls into the front 2/3

Winning -
65 Mins - Mahrez for Nkunku, de Jong for Bellingham

Drawing -
65 Mins - Lamptey for Cancelo, Mahrez for Camavinga, Nkunku to No.10, Mahrez to RW 4231
75 Mins - Nkunku to LW, Mbappe up top 4-4-2
82 Mins - Adeyemi for Haaland

v

WOLVES vs Chelsea (Cup game)
U21’s – Hoever, Elmas, Brahim, Vlahovic,Turati, N.Williams, Trincao
U19’s – Wisdom Amey,
……………………………Donnarumma…………………..
……………*Amey*………Koulibaly……Romagnoli……..
Carvajal……………*Elmas*……..Soumare……………..M.Alonso
………………………………..*Brahim*………………………………..
…………………….*Vlahovic*……..Griezmann……..

Subs: *Turati* (GK), *Neco Williams*, Konate, Busquets, Mane, Insigne, *Trincao*


Tough game to start the cup campaign against Fan’s Chelsea, we’ve gone pretty strong today, based solely on the expectation that he’ll also go strong as his league form is appalling and he desperately needs some silverware to appease the fans after amassing over 1bn pound sterling and signing no-one of note with it.

We’ve gone back to our 3-5-2 for this encounter, we expect Fan to continue with his 4-3-3 so this formation matches him man for man at the back, we’ll lose a body in the midfield but with 2 strikers and a number 10 centrally at the business end of the pitch we’ll be a handful for them.

We’re in no rush to force the play today so will be slightly more reactive than pro-active, let the Chels press us and then pass the ball around them, keep the ball and tire them out with our crisp passing.
Our midfield isn’t as strong as it normally is but they’re good enough to get on with the job at a hand and we all know, even stevie wonder can see it, that regardless of the combination he uses, Chelsea’s midfield is just dull and workmanlike.


The Defence:

Judas is one the elite goal-keepers, 268 games under his belt plus 40 full caps for Italy at the age of 22 is a huge amount of experience, big and strong, quick off his line, we want him coming out and dealing with deep crosses, fills the goal with his presence, beating him is no mean feat.

Wisdom Amey, made his Serie A debut at just 15, and became the youngest ever player in topflight Italian football, he plays comfortably at RB and CB so is perfect at RCB for us today, will have Koulibaly to his left and Carvajal to his right, guiding him through the game, and what better players to learn his trade from, will just follow their lead, jockey his man and try not to do anything too “Hollywood” will have to hold his man up and wait for support from team-mates.

Koulibaly is one of the best in the business, will take control of the defence, and be the voice at the back, cool calm and collected, will go man-2-man with the central striker, stay tight and really get under his skin.

Romagnoli comes back in at LCB, and will mirror Wisdom on the other flank, hold up the wider forward and back up Alonso giving us the numerical advantages on the flanks.

Carvajal/Alonso are given the freedom to get forward and provide the attacking width for the side, its much needed as it allows us to defend higher up the pitch (Fans FB’s will be far less likely to advance too far if we can peg them back with the diagonals)

The Midfield:
Whilst Elmas and Soumare are still pretty young they have great attributes that can make them a solid pairing,
Elmas whilst not poor defensively, isn’t a destroyer in the traditional sense, but he’s a good stand-in for Verratti, very comfortable on the ball, can dictate the play nicely and chips in with goals and assists, may well go on to become Macedonia’s greatest ever player. We want to use him in the same way Gattuso did in Naples, we want him in the half spaces, using that 6ft frame to win the second ball. He’s the perfect link man, to play the balls into Brahim and Griezzer, whilst having the range to hit Dusan and letting him lay it off to Griezzer-Diaz.

Soumare also clears 6ft but his skill set is markedly different, where has Elmas has the touches and intricacies, Soumare is more of a tank, great pace and strength we like him carrying the ball from the deep, breaking the Chelsea lines, drawing players to him and then offloading. Soumare defensively at Lille atleast was more about protecting the space behind than pressing the ball, today its much the same, as he and Elmas provide a shield for our defence, we just congest that space and don’t allow the Chels to play through us.

The Attack:
Dusan is one of the very best young strikers in the world, hard working, with an eye for a goal he’s very much the archetypal #9, 8 goals in 12 Serie A games already this season show what he can do. Will look to physically Bully chelsea’s centre-backs, win his aerial duels and look to prove he’s more than “just” Ronaldo’s stand in. That said there’s no value having a premier button man without feeding him ammunition, so with that in mind Brahim Diaz comes in as our #10, 4 goals and 2 assists for Milan this season show that he’s starting to show his potential on a more consistent basis, will look to play in the pockets and really occupy Fans DM, stops Chelsea from playing out from the back but also gives our front two a bit more time and space.

Griezmann starts alongside Dusan and plays the SS role perfectly, will just drop off a yard or two taking one of the CB’s away with him and create that bit of space for either Brahim or Dusan to run in to.

Dusan with back to goal has two very intelligent players to operate off, whether they go ball in to feet for a one-two or if the balls high and they chase down the flick on.

Subs 60 mins.

Mane > Griezmann
Insigne > Brahim
Busquets > Soumare

we switch to a 3-4-3

Mane RW
Insigne LW

------------------------- Martinez -------------------------
------- Rudiger ---- Schlotterbeck ---- N'Dicka -------
----------------- Kovacic ------ N.Kante -----------------
Emerson ----------------------------------------- Chilwell
-------------------------- Hlozek ---------------------------
---------------- Havertz -------- Werner -----------------

Bazanu, Patterson, Kamara, J.Ramsey, Gouiri, Pulisic, Watkins

U21 - Schlotterbeck, N'Dicka, Hlozek, Kamara, Bazanu, Ramsey, Gouiri
U19 - Patterson

When we don't have the ball, we will press high up the pitch, conceding very little space, Hlozek and Werner will look to steal the ball within the attacking third and hopefully, quickly get it to the other two in front, We do not give them any time on the ball and our front 3 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 Kante/Kovacic to push to that side again to close them down and support the wingbacks.

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 two.

Emi 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

Rudiger and N'Dicka, both powerful boys 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.
Schlotterbeck 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.
Emerson and Chilwell, 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 or cut inside, 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 Kante's primary role in front of the defence is to control possession and then start an attacking phase, 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 will 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.
Kovacic has the responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for the front 3, whilst also helping in the defensive third. Also he must use the wingbacks to create problems when they double up.
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.

Hlozek to dictate proceedings in the final third, either playing the through ball to the front two or use the wingbacks pass in between the lines and give them something to run onto as the drive passed the defender, making late runs into the box unnoticed maybe and look for any loose ball to have a pop at goal, he, defending wise, I want him to harass who ever has the ball in that area and to the right as Werner goes left, in a more 541, get it and move it forward as quickly as possible

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 the midfield to get Havertz away on goal, he and Havertz both fantastic in the air, so while they aim for Havertz and Werner the midfield 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 with Hlozek on the right middle, Werner goes Left, they are great going forward but today, pretty slow at the back

Havertz, he is there to finish off chances created by other, I want him always on the last man, no defending required from him, always ready to pounce, if however he cant get in on goal he has plenty round him to lay it off to, or just a quick pass and look to get into space where he can get his shot off,be it wide or dropping back allowing Hlozek and Werner more time and space, end of, he is in to score goals and that is what he shall do.

Captain - Rudiger
Pens - Havertz
Free Kicks - Hlozek/replacement
Corners - Wingbacks

Losing/drawing
65 Mins - Patterson for Emerson, will drive forward, Gouiri for Werner
75 Mins - Watkins for Hlozek 343 more attacking

Winning -
75 Mins - Kamara for Hlozek, he drops in and becomes the DM behind Kante and Kovacic
82 Mins - Ramsey for Werner, 3511 and he will float just in front of the midfield closing things down just in front of the midfield, Wingbacks become fullbacks and we will see this out in a 5311

v

ARSENAL to face Man City [CUP]

-------------------- Maignan -------------------
------ Kounde --- W. Saliba --- Tapsoba ---
Hakimi --- T. Partey -- Barella --- Tierney
------- Saka ------- Dybala ------ ESR --------

Subs: Raya, Stones, Bruno Guimaeres, Salah-Eddine, Diaby, J. Alvarez, Calvert-Lewin

We are going into this game with a more youthful injection, but lots of players who are used to being regulars, such is the nature of our youthful squad. We are sticking with the usual formation, so that these players are ready to break into the first team, if they are not there already. A tough game against Man City, but one we feel that with the quality of player we have on show, we can win.

Hakimi – Hakimi’s qualities ensure he can offer us a dynamic outlet in possession and a strong defensive unit to combat what Man City throw at us. As he advances up the right in an attacking sense, he has the freedom of that wing, with Saka as the RAM who likes to come inside with the ball ahead of him, this gives that right flank a serious double threat on the inside and out. On overlap he has one of the best final balls around, capable of scoring himself or picking out Dybala in that box and Smith Rowe.

Kounde - Reads the game incredibly well. He has experience at right back and as a RCB, he gives Hakimi that protection needed to get forward. His technical ability on the ball will be a real asset to spring tactical diagonal balls to Tierney / ESR - this will break the Man City shape and create chaos.

Saliba - Leader and ball playing CB at the heart of the defensive three. Saluba will sweep and be the one to ‘double up’ on their ST, with Tapsoba or Kounde being the aggressor on their ST depending on the side he drifts too.

Tapsoba – We have real competition for places at the back, so Tapsoba will want to take his chance. He’s physically immense, strong and fast and works well at LCB.

Tierney - Defensively he has the pace, experience and tactical nous to snuff out what Man City can throw at us. In possession, the presence of the back three behind him, allowing him to push on and combine with Smith Rowe to cause serious damage and overloads on the left. Combining with Smith Rowe to get past their RB could be a real good source of chances for us.

Partey – Partey has been chosen for his physical dominance and ability to turn and play at pace. The dynamic midfielder has the quality and experience to add to our midfield. With the attacking players ahead of him, Partey will sit and marshall the right half space, allowing Hakimi more attacking freedom. Partey has played at right back before so this is well suited. He will sit at the heart of midfield both in and out of possession, offering a shield to the defence and helping to nullify Man City.

Barella – Barella is a baller and with three CBs and Partey, he has a bit more freedom in the CM role. He also has Smith Rowe ahead to interchange with! As we know, he has a bit of everything and Barella will dictate that left side of the midfield. Very calm on the ball, looking to progress and carry the ball through the lines when received from the central defenders. He should be the conductor. He is a master of slowing or quickening the tempo of a game. Will look to play the deep lying playmaker role today.

Saka - Scoring and assisting goals regularly for club and country this season, we want to give Saka a bit more freedom in some games, particularly where we want to win midfield battles. With Barella and Partey behind him, this trio have a bit of everything to help us take control of the game and transition really well. In this game he can drift wide right to combine with Hakimi to create overloads.

Smith Rowe - The Englishman has been excellent this season for Arsenal and now England. He’s brilliant in transition, running with the ball at pace and is now finding that final pass and shot to take him to the next level. Big chance for him today, and we’ve created familiarity around him to ensure he can deliver his best.

Dybala - The furthest forward of our team, he will use his energy to pressure the ponderous Man City defenders and look to snap up mistakes. He will sniff out chances that Smith Rowe, Saka and the wing backs create / cross for him to do what he does best, dropping in to link the play at times, he creates the space for the quick duo of Saka and Smith Rowe to exploit and turn the pace in that final third.

SUBS
After 60 (all scenarios) - Julian Alvarez for Dybala
After 75 (all scenarios) - Bruno G for Partey

--------------------------- Bazanu --------------------------
------- Rudiger ----- Schlotterbeck ----- N'dicka -------
------------------ N.Kante ------ Kovacic -----------------
Patterson -------------------------------------- B.Chilwell
--------------------------- Hlozek ---------------------------
---------------- Schick ------------- Werner ---------------

Travers, Patino, Niguez, J.Ramsey, Pulisic, Gouiri, Havertz

U19 - Patterson, Patino
U21 - Bazanu, N'dicka, Schlotterbeck, Hlozek, Ramsey, Gouiri

When we don't have the ball, we will press high up the pitch, conceding very little space, Hlozek and Werner will look to steal the ball within the attacking third and hopefully, quickly get it to the other two in front, We do not give them any time on the ball and our front 3 prevent their defense hanging on to it too long or trying to play form the back as we pressurize 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, I want Kante/Kovacic to push to that side again to close them down and support the wingbacks.

When we have the ball it starts from the back moving the ball around between defense and center 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 two.

Bazanu is our sweeper keeper, he always makes himself big, I want him involved with the defense playing out, if he has the ball I want him to find players especially the wingbacks when we are ready to attack

Rudiger and N'Dicka, both powerful boys Cover the wingbacks when they have pushed forward and take the ball out of defense, 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 pressurized 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.

Schlotterbeck 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.
Emerson and Chilwell, 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 or cut inside, don't worry so much about what's behind you as their is plenty cover, I don't mean forget your defense duties, just play with a bit of freedom, crosses, one-twos, cut backs and all with pace to hurt them.

Although Kante's primary role in front of the defense is to control possession and then start an attacking phase, he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defense 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 will 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.
Kovacic has the responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for the front 3, whilst also helping in the defensive third. Also he must use the wingbacks to create problems when they double up.
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.

Hlozek to dictate proceedings in the final third, either playing the through ball to the front two or use the wingbacks pass in between the lines and give them something to run onto as the drive passed the defender, making late runs into the box unnoticed maybe and look for any loose ball to have a pop at goal, he, defending wise, I want him to harass who ever has the ball in that area and to the right as Werner goes left, in a more 541, get it and move it forward as quickly as possible

Werner I want to be making all the runs behind the defense, a tireless worker always making it hard for defenders, I want him to drift wide and pull defenders away, quick and skillful, look to move out to create an outlet for the wingbacks to use or indeed link with the midfield to get Schick away on goal, he and Schick both fantastic in the air, so while they aim for Schick and Werner the midfield 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 with Hlozek on the right middle, Werner goes Left, they are great going forward but today, pretty slow at the back

Schick, he is there to finish off chances created by other, I want him always on the last man, no defending required from him, always ready to pounce, if however he cant get in on goal he has plenty round him to lay it off to, or just a quick pass and look to get into space where he can get his shot off, be it wide or dropping back allowing Hlozek and Werner more time and space, end of, he is in to score goals and that is what he shall do.

Captain - Kante
Pens - Schick
Free Kicks - Hlozek/replacement
Corners - Wingbacks

Losing
65 Mins - Havertz for Werner, Jacob Ramsey for Kovacic - fresh legs
75 Mins - Gouiri for Hlozek, go LCF 343

Winning -
75 Mins - Patino for Werner, drops into midfield
85 Mins - Wingbacks become fullbacks, Havertz for Schick

Drawing -
65 Mins - Havertz for Hlozek, Gouiri for Werner, Ramsey for Kovacic

--------------------------- N.Pope ---------------------------

J.Cancelo ------ Lacroix ------ Romero ------ N.Mendes

-------------- Declan Rice ----- Bellingham ---------------

-- F.Torres ------------- Grealish -------------- Mbappe --

-------------------------- Abraham --------------------------

Johnstone, Scalvini, C.Ramsey, Camavinga, P-Bidace, Adeyemi, H.Ekitike

U19 - Scalvini, Ramsey, Bidace
U21 - Lacroix, Mendes, Bellingham, Ferran, Camavinga, Adeyemi, Ekitike


Playing from the back and quick on the break ie passing the ball quickly from the back, not racing up the pitch from center back! Pressurize the opposition with a dominate performance, we don't allow their midfield to dominate, I want our front three play quite a high line to force the wingbacks back from an attacking threat, put pressure on the defense, force them into mistakes and misplaced passes so we can gain control again, Wingers will be able get in behind quite easily as their wingbacks like to push forward, we want to hit them quickly, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with Rice and Bellingham ahead of them just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4. CBs up for set pieces.

Lacroix and Romero at the heart of our defense. Romero picks up the CF he is a powerful player so will stop the threat of their No.9, he must look a few seconds ahead so he can intercept any ball coming through to stop the striker in his tracks early, Lacroix is spare and will look to pick 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 defense, look to get it out wide quickly, Both CBs 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 the other forming a back 3, we cant afford be exposed, they will drive up and down the pitch for 90+ mins, they support the wingers on the outside making an extra man. If either get caught up field I want others to help out defensively and to cover spaces made by our fullbacks, this gives our fullbacks more freedom to make their way to midfield to cover. Grealish 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 either CM has made by moving to pick up men. CBs up for corners, FBs and Bissouma stay back.

Declan Rice, he 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, 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. Bellingham will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defense 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, he will also look for piercing balls for the front 3 to drive onto and go for goal. Grealish is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defense and attack he controls the pace of the game, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three, also, he will drop back at times to pick it up then look to his dribbling and passing capabilities to get him around player and if their is space he will into the danger area to unleash a powerful drive, sometimes taking a foul as he is a tricky player to mark gaining cheap freekicks, When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he draws players in, so as he does this he will pass the ball away sometimes taking 2/3 players out of the game leaving a lot more room for others to make something dangerous, he will pass and move to always make himself available. 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 defense 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, young and full of energy, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, Ferran and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, taking men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Grealish more time and space to pick his moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Abraham who can beat any defender with power/pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Abraham, we must always make sure Abraham is well supported, especially wingers who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside.

Captain - Declan Rice
Free Kicks - Grealish
Corners - Grealish
Penalties - Mbappe

Losing/drawing
65 Mins - Adeyemi for Ferran, Mbappe to the right, Grealish to the left and Adeyemi up top with Abraham 442/424
75 Mins - Philogence-Bidace for Grealish, adds some pace to the left, Camavinga for Bellingham

Winning -
75 Mins - Camavinga for Ferran and into midfield, Grealsih left, Mbappe right
83 Mins - Adeyemi for Abraham

Balanced 4-2-3-1

U21: Everyone
U19: Fabio Silva, Kaide Gordon, Kamara

We play a balanced 4-2-3-1 with pace and athleticism throughout the side as we look to take the game to Spurs. Attacking down the wings with fbs providing width, and a strong double pivot in front of the defence. The width from the fbs, and protection of the double pivot giving our attacking midfield trio freedom in attack.

Attack starts at the back with two of the best ball playing cbs in the world, with the double pivot in front offering a solid spine. Silva starts up top for his high energy in attack and defence, with the pace of our wingers to exploit space he creates.

In behind is the new Rui Costa, given freedom to drift wide or central to find space, link with the wingers and fbs to cut open the Toon defence.

In defence Kamara remains zonally, Musiala who press the space ball side.

Mengi the main man marker as he is a strong marker and allows Kouassi to use his reading of the game and pace to sweep up. In midfield, the attacking mid trio narrow in front of the double pivot. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play.

The fbs play high in attack, and as they have strong wingers so we look to force them to go deep in order to get the ball or push them wide.

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 cms who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid attacking mid 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, the two cms support creating and linking, 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.

—————————————- Trubin ———————————
Vanderson —— T. Kouassi —— Mengi —— Gvardiol
—————————- A.Kamara —— Musiala ——————
——————————————————————————————
K.Gordon ——————— J.Felix ————— Hudson-Odoi
-————————————— F.Silva ————————


Subs. Henderson, L.Thomas, Kozlowski, L.Romero, J.Pedro, Kamari Doyle, M.Tel

Defence

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 the space in the middle 3rd of the park. In this formation we don’t press the ball, we conserve energy and seek to keep them deep. Stop them breaking and make them try and force 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 hurt us, by leaving no space between the lines.

As Spurs advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape remains rigid and narrows to side of play.

Silva in the space in between the opposition defence on the side of play.

When they 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 force them into the corner.


Subs.

Bring on Romero for Felix and Luke Thomas for Gvardiol after 70 minutes.
After 75 mins bring on Tel for Gordon.

Round 4
Group B

Liverpool vs Newcastle

Injuries:
Brandon Williams
Rayan Ait Nouri
Ander Herrera
Denzel Dumfries
U21’s – Kabak,Botman, Tonali, Neto, Johnson, Schuurs,
U19’s – Doku, Vandevoordt,

……………………………………J.Sa……………………..
Trippier……………Kabak…………..Botman……….Zinchenko
…………………………………..Tonali……………………………….
……………..Henderson………………….Rabiot……………
Doku…………………………..Vardy………………………..Neto

Subs: Vandevoordt, Johnson, Schuurs, Allan, Gakpo, Leao, Belotti.


Back to it after a few weeks off, Newcastle in the cup is never an easy tie. We’ve gone pretty strong as no-one knows if the barcodes will even bother to turn up, figuratively and literally.

We want quick paced one touch football today, it’s the cup and its what the fans want, get it down and knock it about.

Sa is one of the top keepers in the prem this season, so fast off his line and great with the ball to feet, he’ll play his natural game for us,

Trippier and Zinchenko have great delivery into the box and we need to utilise this, so we have a halfway house fix where they both go as far as halfway and then on in alternate which carries on forward deoending on which side of the pitch the attack is building from.

Botman and Kabak give us a physically strong pairing, added to the left foot right combo as well, it helps with our playing it out from the back mantra. Kabak is the spare man and will tidy up the mess that 6ft4 Botman leaves of Newcastle’s strikers.

Sandro T is in as the deep lying playmaker, I could write loads here but you know already what he’ll do, drop deep collect the ball move forwards and recycle possession etc etc.

Henderson and Rabiot give me a solid foothold in the midfield battle, Rabiot adds some height and physicality in the engine room and Henderson is right up there with the best in the business at sacrificing himself for the team, he can find those little half spaces and drop a ball in, we have 3 great runners up top so….

Doku and Neto are two absolute power runners and they’ll be looking to peg Newcastles defence right back. We know Ludy likes to play a high line but if he does that today he’s finished as we’ll get n behind and put him to bed.
Vardy leads the line today even at 35 still has that ability to get in behind and punish teams 9 in 16 for lesta in the prem is a great return, we want him playing just off the shoulder, fnd that space and pull the trigger.

Subs 60 mins

Rovella > Rabiot… young Nicolo comes on for his debut, fresh legs in the engine.
Leao > Vardy – like for like
Gakpo > Neto – like for like

Round 4
Group A
Wolves vs Watford

Injuries:
Thomas Soucek
Sergio Busquets
Gianluigi Donnarumma
adama Traore
U21’s Turati, Hoever, Elmas, Brahim, Trincao, Vlahovic
U19’s Amey,

………………………………………...S.Turati……………………..
Hoever………………….Chalobah………..Konate………. Neco Williams
……………………………..Elmas…………….Verratti………………….
Jota…………………………………..B.Diaz……………………….Trincao
………………………………………….Vlahovic…………………………..

Subs: Pickford, Alonso, Spinazzola, Wijnaldum, Mane, Insigne,Raul

Strong line up today zero points on the board but still an outside chance of sneaking through. Watford are top side packed full of youngsters, but we have enough quality and infront of a packed Molineux we have to take the game to them.

Turati is out on oan from Torino and is finally getting some minutes in Serie B to aid his development, 3 clean sheets in 12 games isn’t a bad return so far.

Hoever and Neco Williams come in at FB, both are modern full-backs where they contribute to the attacking aspects of the game as well, so they’ll run the line and over-lap our wingers, we have big bad Dusan up top as the target, so we’ll try and hit him on the fly.

Chalobah and Konate give us a physical platform to close Watford out of the game, both are comfortable on the ball which enables us to play out from the back

Elmas and Verratti in the double pivot, whilst neither are your stereotypical ball winners both put a foot in and close down the spaces. Both are great in possession and that blend of skills will give us the right to play our own game, dictate the tempo and hopefully go and get some goals.

Jota/Diaz/Trincao we want as a fluid trident, pace and trickery in abundance, we want them shifting between themselves, like a Dutch total football approach, make it hard for Watford to man mark, pass and move, drift about, they all have appealing skillsets and I think it gives us a really nice blend to really peg Watford back.

Dusan leads the line, has all the attributes needed to be in the conversation of whos the best U21 striker in the world, 16 goals in 20 Serie A games says it all to be fair.

Subs 65 mins:
Wijnaldum > Verratti, fresh legs
Mane > Jota

Insigne > Brahim

Watford: Carabao Cup Group A Round 4 (Away to Wolves)
Captain: Felipe
Vice-Captain: Júnior

U21: Júnior, Pavlovic, Veron, Damsgaard, Núñez, Sandry, Paulinho, Evanilson
U-19: Pitaluga

---------------Júnior
Dodô--Felipe--Pavlovic---Angeliño
--------Askildsen--Svanberg
-------------Thorstvedt
Veron---------------------Damsgaard
----------------Núñez

SUBS: Pitaluga, Ngakia, Morato, Sandry, Willock, Paulinho, Evanilson


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 (Askildsen) who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (Svanberg). In front of them Thorstvedt 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’ Svanberg will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Thorstvedt 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: Júnior 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 (Askildsen). 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 (Svanberg). 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 Thorstvedt will operate as the link between midfield and attack. He will be our creator and can find that magic pass to break open a defence and release one of our front three.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Veron and Damsgaard 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 Thorstvedt, Svanberg 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 Svanberg may sit a bit deeper allowing Thorstvedt 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: Thorstvedt, Damsgaard or Veron with Felipe, Pavlovic, Askildsen and Núñez to offer an aerial threat. Thorstvedt and Damsgaard (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.

Substitutions: (80 mins) If winning, then 3 like for like subs – Morato for Felipe, Sandry for Askildsen and Evanilson for Núñez.
If losing (60 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Svanberg with Evanilson and Veron with Paulinho. 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.
----------------Askildsen
Paulinho---Thorstvedt---Damsgaard
-------Evanilson --Núñez

BRENTFORD v Arsenal

u21 = Livramento, Guehi, Cambiaso, Ampadu, Broja, van Sas
Livramento, Guehi, Cambiaso and Ampadu are all playing the full 90 minutes, whilst Broja plays the first 70 minutes 👍

u19 = Maatsen


----------------------Kelleher
Livramento, Andersen, Guehi, Cambiaso
---------------Ampadu, Höjbjerg
Berardi-----------Ødegaard----------Djuricic
-----------------------Broja

Subs: van Sas, Maehle, T. Silva, Maatsen, Laimer, Saint-Maximin, Ibrahimovic

Captain: Höjbjerg
Free Kicks: Berardi/Ødegaard
Penalties: Berardi

Our defensive unit consists of Joachim Andersen and Marc Guehi paired up at centre-back, Tino Livramento at right-back and Andrea Cambiaso at left-back, with Ethan Ampadu and Pierre-Emile Höjbjerg as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Ampadu 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 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 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, 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 Domenico Berardi, Martin Ødegaard and Filip Djuricic as our band of three attacking midfielders with Armando Broja 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 Höjbjerg, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.

Livramento and Cambiaso can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Ampadu and Höjbjerg can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Domenico Berardi and Filip Djuricic, who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers, will cut inside or make runs into the box.

Martin Ødegaard, our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders. Ødegaard 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 Berardi, Djuricic & Broja to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other..

Upfront Broja is our classical style all round centre forward, a real number 9 who has the ability to be a bully, but also has the technical ability to be more than just a menace to our opponents defenders.

Whilst 6ft 3in tall he isn’t just about his height, he is a great ball player and has great positional awareness. He'll cause our opponents some big problems with his ability to play off the last man, draw defenders wide and drop in and link up with midfielders. But most of all, he is a lethal finisher and a natural goal poacher.

Subs on 70 mins
Saint-Maximin on for Djuricic and Ibrahimovic on for Broja

Double substitution - Dynamic pace, dribbling, and unpredictality from Saint-Maximin and a real focal point for the attacking midfielders in Ibrahimovic during the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line.

U21 - Saka, Alvarez, Smith Rowe, Tapsoba, Bard, Salah-Eddine, Hutchinson
U19 - Salah Eddine, Hutchinson

ARSENAL vs Brentford

--------------------- Maignan ---------------------
----- J. Stones --- Tapsoba --- Gabriel --------
Hakimi --- T. Partey -- Tielemans --- Tierney
------- Saka ------ J. Alvarez ------ ESR ----------

Subs: Raya, Bruno Guimaeres, Salah-Eddine, Maddison, Hutchinson, Dybala, Bard

We are going into this game with a more youthful injection, but lots of players who are used to being regulars, such is the nature of our youthful squad. We are sticking with the usual formation, so that these players are ready to break into the first team, if they are not there already. A tough game against Brentford, but one we feel that with the quality of player we have on show, we can win.

Hakimi – Hakimi’s qualities ensure he can offer us a dynamic outlet in possession and a strong defensive unit to combat what Brentford throw at us. As he advances up the right in an attacking sense, he has the freedom of that wing, with Saka as the RAM who likes to come inside with the ball ahead of him, this gives that right flank a serious double threat on the inside and out. On overlap he has one of the best final balls around, capable of scoring himself or picking out Alvarez in that box and Smith Rowe.

Gabriel - Reads the game incredibly well and is very strong in the duel. Been excellent for Arsenal this season.

Stones - Leader and ball playing CB at the heart of the defensive three. Stones will sweep and be the one to ‘double up’ on their ST, with Tapsoba or Gabriel being the aggressor on their ST depending on the side he drifts too.

Tapsoba – We have real competition for places at the back, so Tapsoba will want to take his chance. He’s physically immense, strong and fast and works well at LCB.

Tierney - Defensively he has the pace, experience and tactical nous to snuff out what Brentford can throw at us. In possession, the presence of the back three behind him, allowing him to push on and combine with Smith Rowe to cause serious damage and overloads on the left. Combining with Smith Rowe to get past their RB could be a real good source of chances for us.

Partey – Partey has been chosen for his physical dominance and ability to turn and play at pace. The dynamic midfielder has the quality and experience to add to our midfield. With the attacking players ahead of him, Partey will sit and marshall the right half space, allowing Hakimi more attacking freedom. Partey has played at right back before so this is well suited. He will sit at the heart of midfield both in and out of possession, offering a shield to the defence and helping to nullify Brentford.

Tielemans – Tielemans is a baller and with three CBs and Partey, he has a bit more freedom in the CM role. He also has Smith Rowe ahead to interchange with! As we know, he has a bit of everything and Tielemans will dictate that left side of the midfield. Very calm on the ball, looking to progress and carry the ball through the lines when received from the central defenders. He should be the conductor. He is a master of slowing or quickening the tempo of a game. Will look to play the deep lying playmaker role today.

Saka - Scoring and assisting goals regularly for club and country this season, we want to give Saka a bit more freedom in some games, particularly where we want to win midfield battles. With Tielemans and Partey behind him, this trio have a bit of everything to help us take control of the game and transition really well. In this game he can drift wide right to combine with Hakimi to create overloads.

Smith Rowe - The Englishman has been excellent this season for Arsenal and now England. He’s brilliant in transition, running with the ball at pace and is now finding that final pass and shot to take him to the next level. Big chance for him today, and we’ve created familiarity around him to ensure he can deliver his best.

Alvarez - The furthest forward of our team, he will use his energy to pressure the ponderous Brentford defenders and look to snap up mistakes. He will sniff out chances that Smith Rowe, Saka and the wing backs create / cross for him to do what he does best, dropping in to link the play at times, he creates the space for the quick duo of Saka and Smith Rowe to exploit and turn the pace in that final third.

SUBS
After 60 (all scenarios) – Dybala for Alvarez
After 60 (all scenarios) - Maddison for Tielemans
After 75 (all scenarios) - Bruno G for Partey

U21s: Ilan Meslier, Gabriel Menino, Mohamad Simakan, Pascal Struijk, Alexander Isak, Phil Foden, Aaron Hickey, Michael Olise, and Joe Gelhardt (8)

U19s: Aaron Hickey and Joe Gelhardt (2)

--------------------Meslier

Menino---Simakan—Struijk---Digne

---------------------Phillips

--------------SMS------Doucoure

Chiesa-----------Isak--------------Foden

Neuer
Hernandez
Hickey
Jorginho
Olise
Gelhardt
Kane



Returning to the 4-3-3 for today’s game against Man City, with a midfield full of industry, but also plenty of ability, and an attack that is brimming with pace, movement, and potential. I want to see us play a game where we move the ball quickly, relying on 2-3 touch football, to quickly get the ball into attacking areas, where we have the players to cause damage. When out of possession, I want to see us maintain our usual intense press, pushing them up high in the attacking areas, whilst using our combative midfield to win the key battles in this area of the pitch. We have a young defence, but each of them have high potential, and lend themselves to the way we want to play, with Meslier the best U21 goalkeeper in the world, Menino a dynamic attacking presence, and Digne offering experience, mirroring Menino on the left. Struijk and Simakan are both comfortable ball-playing defenders, meaning we can rely on them to help us keep possession deep.

When we move the ball out of the defensive areas, I want to see us using moving the ball quickly. We should have plenty of options in the defensive area, to keep the ball moving. Meslier behind and Phillips in front means we have options to look for, whilst Digne and Menino will push forward, almost as if they were wing-backs, stretching the pitch. I want to see Menino and Digne both pushing forward down the flanks, to offer us that extra width, bombing up and down. When this happens, I want to see Phillips drop slightly deeper, almost between Simakan and Struijk, operating as a back three, so that we don’t get overly exposed in the defensive areas. In terms of defending, Struijk will take man-marking duties against their main goal threat, whilst Simakan, who is more mobile, will serve as a covering sweeper, looking to mop up any balls that escape Struijk’s attention. In Phillips, SMS, and Doucoure, we have a physically imposing midfield, all willing to get themself stuck in and win the ball back. Phillips will naturally sit deeper than the other two, covering the space in behind. SMS and Doucoure should work as the double pivot in front, dual box-to-box midfielders, keeping an intense press in the middle, and both driving forward when we win the ball back and transition to the attack.

I would like to see the attack be focused around getting the most out of Isak. In Chiesa and Foden we have exciting players capable of mixing up their approach, and I want to see the two largely operating inside of the wide areas, with the width being supplied by the overlapping runs of Menino and Digne. Isak is a strong striker with good physical movement, and I don’t mind him pulling into wider areas to try and stretch their defenders, creating space for Chiesa and Foden to attack in the middle. We want to hit them quickly in these areas, looking to release balls over the top early, to get Chiesa and Isak running in behind, and not dally too much overplaying the ball in the middle or final third. SMS and Doucoure will also provide attacking runs, to supplement our presence up front, with Doucoure looking to get in the box, and use his physical frame to impose himself, whilst SMS will sit just outside, mopping up loose clearances, and recycling the possession. This also allows him to set up for a wonder goal from distance, which would be appreciated. When we lose the ball, the high press should be enabled. Isak will work the central areas, whilst Foden and Chiesa will move onto their opposing FB. Doucoure and SMS drop deeper, to cut off balls into the midfield, with SMS moving up and sitting on their holding midfield player, if this looks like becoming an easy out for them. This will hopefully force them into sloppy movement of the football, and us regaining possession in an advanced position, ready to pounce and grab a goal.

Substitutions

If losing/drawing

Isak off for Kane 60 mins

A proven goalscorer on to lead the line, and a player that their defenders will not have been wanting to come up front today. Will help us to grab a goal.

Doucoure off for Olise 70 mins

Foden drops back into the midfield three, with Olise going RW and Chiesa over to LW. An unpredictable asset off the bench, that may just change the game.

Phillips off for Gelhardt 80 mins

Switch to a 4-2-4, with Gelhardt playing off Kane. Another unpredictable change, with a player that has the capacity to change the flow of the game.

If winning

Doucoure off for Jorginho 70 mins

Jorginho sits deeper, alongside Phillips, with SMS shuttling just in front of them.

Foden off for Hernandez 75 mins

Switch to a 3-5-2, with Chiesa playing up top with Isak, and Hernandez slotting in at LCB.

Chiesa off for Kane 80 mins

Kane up top with Isak. Hoping for another goal to kill the game.

Round 5

Chelsea

------------------------- N.Pope ------------------------

T.Lamptey ---- Scalvini ---- Bastoni ---- N.Mendes

------------- Iroegbunam --- Bellingham -------------

-- F.Torres ----------- Coutinho ----------- Ekitike --

----------------------- K.Adeyemi ----------------------

Oblak, Ramsey, A.Frances, Camavinga, Mbappe, P-Bidace, Haaland


U21 - Lamptey, Mendes, Bellingham, Ferran, Ekitike, Adeyemi, Camavinga, Haaland
U19 - Scalvini, Iroegbunam, Ramsey, A.Frances, P-Bidace

A very young team, but we stay with the same style and tempo, Playing from the back and quick on the break ie passing the ball quickly from the back, not racing up the pitch from center back! Pressurize the opposition with a dominate performance, we don't allow their midfield to dominate, I want our front three play quite a high line to force the wingbacks back from an attacking threat, put pressure on the defense, force them into mistakes and misplaced passes so we can gain control again, Wingers will be able get in behind quite easily as their wingbacks like to push forward, we want to hit them quickly, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with young Iroegbunam and Bellingham ahead of them just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4. CBs up for set pieces.

Scalvini and Bastoni at the heart of our defense. Bastoni picks up the CF he is a powerful player so will stop the threat of their No.9, he must look a few seconds ahead so he can intercept any ball coming through to stop the striker in his tracks early, Scalvini is spare and will look to pick 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 defense, look to get it out wide quickly, Both CBs 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 the other forming a back 3, we cant afford be exposed, they will drive up and down the pitch for 90+ mins, they support the wingers on the outside making an extra man. If either get caught up field I want others to help out defensively and to cover spaces made by our fullbacks, this gives our fullbacks more freedom to make their way to midfield to cover. Coutinho 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 either CM has made by moving to pick up men. CBs up for corners, FBs and Iroegbunam stay back.

Iroegbunam, he 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, 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. Bellingham will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defense 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, he will also look for piercing balls for the front 3 to drive onto and go for goal. Coutinho is essential to our style of play, 'The Magician' is the link between defense and attack he controls the pace of the game, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three, also, he will drop back at times to pick it up then look to his dribbling and passing capabilities to get him around player and if their is space he will into the danger area to unleash a powerful drive, sometimes taking a foul as he is a tricky player to mark gaining cheap freekicks, When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he draws players in, so as he does this he will pass the ball away sometimes taking 2/3 players out of the game leaving a lot more room for others to make something dangerous, he will pass and move to always make himself available. 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 defense 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, young and full of energy, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, Ferran and Ekitike will cause them problems drifting in an out, taking men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Coutinho more time and space to pick his moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Adeyemi who can beat any defender with power/pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Abraham, we must always make sure Adeyemi is well supported, especially wingers who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside.

Captain - Bastoni
Free Kicks - Coutinho
Corners - Wingers
Penalties - Adeyemi

Losing -
65 Mins - Mbappe and Haaland for Adeyemi and Ekitike, 4-4-2/4-2-4 - Mbappe and Haaland up top, Coutinho to the left
72 Mins - Camavinga for Iroegbunam

Winning -
75 Mins - Camavinga for Ekitike, he goes beside Bellingham, Iroegbunam in behind the pair, Haaland for Adeyemi

Drawing -
70 Mins - Mbappe for Ekitike, Haaland for Adeyemi, Calvin Ramsey for Lamptey (to over pace and crossing down the right hand side)

says Abraham near the end, meant Adeyemi

-------------------------- Bazanu -------------------------
-------- Skriniar --- Schlotterbeck --- N'Dicka --------
----------------- N.Kante ----- Ramsey -----------------
Patterson ------------------------------------ B.Chilwell
-------------------------- Hlozek --------------------------
----------------- Lukaku -------- Werner ----------------

Martinez, Kamara, Patino, Prowse, Octavian Popescu, Gouiri, Schick

U21 - Bazanu, N'Dicka, J.Ramsey, Hlozek, Kamara, Gouiri
U19 - Patterson, Patino, Octavian Popescu

When we don't have the ball, we will press high up the pitch, conceding very little space, Hlozek and Werner will look to steal the ball within the attacking third and hopefully, quickly get it to the other two in front, We do not give them any time on the ball and our front 3 prevent their defense hanging on to it too long or trying to play form the back as we pressurize 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, I want Kante/Ramsey to push to that side again to close them down and support the wingbacks.

When we have the ball it starts from the back moving the ball around between defense and center 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 two.

Bazanu is our sweeper keeper, he always makes himself big, I want him involved with the defense playing out, if he has the ball I want him to find players especially the wingbacks when we are ready to attack

Skriniar and N'Dicka, both powerful boys Cover the wingbacks when they have pushed forward and take the ball out of defense, 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 pressurized 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.

Schlotterbeck 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.
Patterson and Chilwell, 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 or cut inside, don't worry so much about what's behind you as their is plenty cover, I don't mean forget your defense duties, just play with a bit of freedom, crosses, one-twos, cut backs and all with pace to hurt them.

Although Kante's primary role in front of the defense is to control possession and then start an attacking phase, he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defense 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 will 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.
Ramsey has the responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for the front 3, whilst also helping in the defensive third. Also he must use the wingbacks to create problems when they double up.
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.

Hlozek to dictate proceedings in the final third, either playing the through ball to the front two or use the wingbacks pass in between the lines and give them something to run onto as the drive passed the defender, making late runs into the box unnoticed maybe and look for any loose ball to have a pop at goal, he, defending wise, I want him to harass who ever has the ball in that area and to the right as Werner goes left, in a more 541, get it and move it forward as quickly as possible

Werner I want to be making all the runs behind the defense, a tireless worker always making it hard for defenders, I want him to drift wide and pull defenders away, quick and skillful, look to move out to create an outlet for the wingbacks to use or indeed link with the midfield to get Lukaku away on goal, he and Lukaku both fantastic in the air, so while they aim for Lukaku and Werner the midfield 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 with Hlozek on the right middle, Werner goes Left, they are great going forward but today, pretty slow at the back

Lukaku, he is there to finish off chances created by other, I want him always on the last man, no defending required from him, always ready to pounce, if however he cant get in on goal he has plenty round him to lay it off to, or just a quick pass and look to get into space where he can get his shot off, be it wide or dropping back allowing Hlozek and Werner more time and space, end of, he is in to score goals and that is what he shall do.

Captain - Kante
Pens - Lukaku
Free Kicks - Hlozek/Havertz
Corners - Wingbacks

Losing -
65 Mins - Havertz for Hlozek, go right of the front 3 -- 343, Gouiri for Werner
75 Mins - Octavian Popescu for Chillwell, more attacking down the left, Patterson push up as well

Drawing -
65 Mins - Havertz for Hlozek, Schick for Werner
75 Mins - Patino for Ramsey

Winning -
75 Mins - Kamara for Werner, close up the midfield, Schick for Lukaku 5311, wingbacks drop back and only attack when in no danger, no risks
83 Mins - Prowse for Ramsey

Leeds United v BRENTFORD

u21 = Livramento, Guehi, Colwill, Cambiaso, Ampadu, Broja
Livramento, Guehi, Cambiaso and Ampadu are all playing the full 90 minutes, whilst Broja plays the first 70 minutes 👍

u19 = Maatsen


----------------------Kelleher
Livramento, T. Silva, Guehi, Cambiaso
---------------Ampadu, Höjbjerg
Berardi-----------Ødegaard----------Djuricic
-----------------------Broja

Subs: Simón, Maehle, Colwill, Maatsen, Laimer, Saint-Maximin, Ibrahimovic

Captain: Thiago Silva
Free Kicks: Berardi/Ødegaard
Penalties: Berardi

Our defensive unit consists of Thiago Silva and Marc Guehi paired up at centre-back, Tino Livramento at right-back and Andrea Cambiaso at left-back, with Ethan Ampadu and Pierre-Emile Höjbjerg as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Ampadu 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 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 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, 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 Domenico Berardi, Martin Ødegaard and Filip Djuricic as our band of three attacking midfielders with Armando Broja 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 Höjbjerg, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.

Livramento and Cambiaso can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Ampadu and Höjbjerg can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Domenico Berardi and Filip Djuricic, who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers, will cut inside or make runs into the box.

Martin Ødegaard, our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders. Ødegaard 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 Berardi, Djuricic & Broja to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other..

Upfront Broja is our classical style all round centre forward, a real number 9 who has the ability to be a bully, but also has the technical ability to be more than just a menace to our opponents defenders.

Whilst 6ft 3in tall he isn’t just about his height, he is a great ball player and has great positional awareness. He'll cause our opponents some big problems with his ability to play off the last man, draw defenders wide and drop in and link up with midfielders. But most of all, he is a lethal finisher and a natural goal poacher.

Subs on 70 mins
Saint-Maximin on for Djuricic and Ibrahimovic on for Broja

Double substitution - Dynamic pace, dribbling, and unpredictality from Saint-Maximin and a real focal point for the attacking midfielders in Ibrahimovic during the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line.

Watford: Carabao Cup Group A Round 5 (Home to Chelsea)

Captain: Felipe
Vice Captain: Askildsen

Team:
------------------Júnior
Bradley--Felipe—Morato---Angeliño
----------------Askildsen
--------Svanberg---Damsgaard
Larsen--------------------------Paulinho
------------------Núñez

SUBS: Pitaluga, Ngakia, Collins, Azate, Willock, Veron, Evanilson

U21: Júnior, Ngakia, Morato, Askilden, Veron, Damsgaard, Paulinho, Evanilson
U-19: Pitaluga, Bradley
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: Júnior 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: Askildsen 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. Svanberg and Damsgaard will play just in front of Askildsen. Svanberg will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Damsgaard 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 Larsen and Paulinho 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 Damsgaard, Svanberg and Núñez 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 Svanberg may sit a bit deeper allowing Damsgaard 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 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: Svanberg, Paulinho or Larsen with Felipe, Morato, Askildsen and Núñez to offer an aerial threat. Damsgaard and Paulinho (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Núñez

Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Collins for Morato, Evanilson for Núñez and Willock for Svanberg, 3 like for like substitutions.

If losing (on 70 minutes) Veron for Svanberg and Evanilson for Larsen. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Evanilson and Veron offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.

-------------Askildsen
Veron---Damsgaard---Paulinho
--------Núñez---Evanilson

Balanced 4-2-3-1

U21: Everyone
U19: Fabio Silva, Kaide Gordon, Kamara

We play a balanced 4-2-3-1 with pace and athleticism throughout the side as we look to take the game to the Toon. The lads have had a nice walk in the park last few games, and we expect the same. Attacking down the wings with fbs providing width, and a strong double pivot in front of the defence. The width from the fbs, and protection of the double pivot giving our attacking midfield trio freedom in attack.

Attack starts in the dressing room when the referee tells us the opposition are stuck in traffic, so we attack from the back with two of the best ball playing cbs in the world not in the squad and replaced by kids, with the double pivot in front offering a solid spine. Silva starts up top for his high energy in attack and defence, with the pace of our wingers to exploit space he creates.

In behind is a kid who has been given the day off by his headteacher, and is given freedom to drift wide or central to find space, link with the wingers and fbs to cut open the Toon defence.

In defence Kamara remains zonally, Lokonga who press the space ball side.

Mengi the main man marker as he is a strong marker and allows Kouassi to use his reading of the game and pace to sweep up. In midfield, the attacking mid trio narrow in front of the double pivot. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play.

The fbs play high in attack, and as they have strong wingers so we look to force them to go deep in order to get the ball or push them wide.

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 cms who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid attacking mid 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, the two cms support creating and linking, 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.

—————————————- Trubin ———————————
Vanderson —— T. Kouassi —— Mengi —— Gvardiol
—————————- A.Kamara —— Lokonga ——————
——————————————————————————————
K.Gordon ——————— L.Romero ————— Hudson-Odoi
-————————————— F.Silva ————————


Subs. Henderson, L.Thomas, Kozlowski, Szoboslai , J.Pedro, Kamari Doyle, M.Tel

Defence

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 the space in the middle 3rd of the park. In this formation we don’t press the ball, we conserve energy and seek to keep them deep. Stop them breaking and make them try and force 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 hurt us, by leaving no space between the lines.

If they even turn up, when they advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape remains rigid and narrows to side of play.

Silva in the space in between the opposition defence on the side of play.

When they 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 force them into the corner.


Subs.

Bring on Szoboslai for Romero and Luke Thomas for Gvardiol after 70 minutes.
After 75 mins bring on Tel for Gordon.

Round 6

Chelsea

------------------------ Hindrich -----------------------

C.Ramsey ---- Scalvini ---- Bastoni ---- N.Mendes

------------- Declan Rice -- Bellingham -------------

F.Torres ---------------Asprilla ------------ H.Ekitike

------------------------ Adeyemi -----------------------

Johnstone, Swinkels, Iroegbunam, Camavinga, P-Bidace, Brobbey, Malen

U19 - Ramsey, Scalvini, Asprilla, Swinkels, Iroegbunam, Bidace, Brobbey
U21 - Hindrich, Mendes, Bellingham, Ferran, Ekitike, Adeyemi, Camavinga

We have qualified so put out a very young team, but we stay with the same style and tempo, Playing from the back and quick on the break ie passing the ball quickly from the back, not racing up the pitch from center back! Pressurize the opposition with a dominate performance, we don't allow their midfield to dominate, I want our front three play quite a high line to force the wingbacks back from an attacking threat, put pressure on the defense, force them into mistakes and misplaced passes so we can gain control again, Wingers will be able get in behind quite easily as their wingbacks like to push forward, we want to hit them quickly, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with Rice and Bellingham ahead of them just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4. CBs up for set pieces.

Scalvini and Bastoni at the heart of our defense. Bastoni picks up the CF he is a powerful player so will stop the threat of their No.9, he must look a few seconds ahead so he can intercept any ball coming through to stop the striker in his tracks early, Scalvini is spare and will look to pick 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 defense, look to get it out wide quickly, Both CBs 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 the other forming a back 3, we cant afford be exposed, they will drive up and down the pitch for 90+ mins, they support the wingers on the outside making an extra man. If either get caught up field I want others to help out defensively and to cover spaces made by our fullbacks, this gives our fullbacks more freedom to make their way to midfield to cover. Yaser Asprilla 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 either CM has made by moving to pick up men. CBs up for corners, FBs and Iroegbunam stay back.

Rice, he 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, 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. Bellingham will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defense 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, he will also look for piercing balls for the front 3 to drive onto and go for goal. Asprilla is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defense and attack he controls the pace of the game, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three, also, he will drop back at times to pick it up then look to his dribbling and passing capabilities to get him around player and if their is space he will into the danger area to unleash a powerful drive, sometimes taking a foul as he is a tricky player to mark gaining cheap freekicks, When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he draws players in, so as he does this he will pass the ball away sometimes taking 2/3 players out of the game leaving a lot more room for others to make something dangerous, he will pass and move to always make himself available. 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 defense 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, young and full of energy, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, Ferran and Ekitike will cause them problems drifting in an out, taking men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Asprilla more time and space to pick his moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Adeyemi who can beat any defender with power/pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Adeyemi, we must always make sure Adeyemi is well supported, especially wingers who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside.

Captain - Declan Rice
Free Kicks - Bellingham
Corners - Wingers
Penalties - Adeyemi/Brobbey

Losing/drawing -
65 Mins - Brobbey for Asprilla, a bit more direct, use the wings more 442/424
75 Mins - Malen for Adeyemi, Philogence-Bodace for Ekitike, more energy in the forward positions

Winning -
75 Mins - Camavinga for Asprilla into a 3 man midfield, Brobbey for Adeyemi
83 Mins - P-Bidace for Ekitike

Man City

--------------------------- Bazanu --------------------------
--------- Skriniar --- Schlotterbeck -- N'Dicka ---------
------------------- Niguez ----- Kamara ------------------
Patterson ------------------------------------- B.Chilwell
-------------------------- Havertz --------------------------
---------------- Watkins --------- Lukaku -----------------

Travers, Patino, Zabarnyi, Gosens, O.Popescu, Ianis Stoica, Gouiri

U19 - Patterson, Patino, Zabarnyi, Metinho, O.Popescu, I.Stoica
U21 - Bazanu, Schlotterbeck, N'Dicka, Kamara, Gouiri

When we don't have the ball, we will press high up the pitch, conceding very little space, Havertz and Watkins will look to steal the ball within the attacking third and hopefully, quickly get it to the other two in front, We do not give them any time on the ball and our front 3 prevent their defense hanging on to it too long or trying to play form the back as we pressurize 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, I want Niguez and Kamara to push to that side again to close them down and support the wingbacks.

When we have the ball it starts from the back moving the ball around between defense and center 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 two.

Bazanu is our sweeper keeper, he always makes himself big, I want him involved with the defense playing out, if he has the ball I want him to find players especially the wingbacks when we are ready to attack

Skriniar and N'Dicka, both powerful boys Cover the wingbacks when they have pushed forward and take the ball out of defense, 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 pressurized 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.

Schlotterbeck 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.
Patterson and Chilwell, 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 or cut inside, don't worry so much about what's behind you as their is plenty cover, I don't mean forget your defense duties, just play with a bit of freedom, crosses, one-twos, cut backs and all with pace to hurt them.

Although Kamara's primary role in front of the defense is to control possession and then start an attacking phase, he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defense 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 will 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.
Niguez has the responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for the front 3, whilst also helping in the defensive third. Also he must use the wingbacks to create problems when they double up. 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.

Havertz to dictate proceedings in the final third, either playing the through ball to the front two or use the wingbacks pass in between the lines and give them something to run onto as the drive passed the defender, making late runs into the box unnoticed maybe and look for any loose ball to have a pop at goal, he, defending wise, I want him to harass who ever has the ball in that area and to the right or left as he andWatkins split them in a more 541, get it and move it forward as quickly as possible

Watkins I want to be making all the runs behind the defense, a tireless worker always making it hard for defenders, I want him to drift wide and pull defenders away, quick and skillful, look to move out to create an outlet for the wingbacks to use or indeed link with the midfield to get Lukaku away on goal, he and Lukaku both fantastic in the air, so while they aim for Lukaku and Watkins, the midfield 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 with Havertz & Werner pushing wide

Lukaku, he is there to finish off chances created by other, I want him always on the last man, no defending required from him, always ready to pounce, if however he cant get in on goal he has plenty round him to lay it off to, or just a quick pass and look to get into space where he can get his shot off, be it wide or dropping back allowing Havertz and Watkins more time and space, end of, he is in to score goals and that is what he shall do.

Captain - Skriniar
Pens - Lukaku
Free Kicks - Havertz
Corners - Wingbacks

Losing -
65 Mins - Octavian Popescu(left) for Watkins, Ianis Stoica(right) for N'Dicka 442/424 with Havertz up top and the two young Romanians wide
75 Mins - Gouiri for Havertz

Winning -
75 Mins - Patino for Watkins into midfield to shore it up
83 Mins - Popescu for Havertz

Drawing -
65 Mins - Gouiri for Watkins, Patino for Niguez
73 Mins - Gosens for Chilwell

Manchester City v BRENTFORD

u21 = Livramento, Colwill, Cambiaso, Ampadu and Lucca.
Livramento, Colwill, Cambiaso and Ampadu are all playing the full 90 minutes. Lucca comes on as a sub

u19 = Maatsen


----------------------Kelleher
Livramento, Andersen, Colwill, Cambiaso
---------------Ampadu, Höjbjerg
Berardi-----------Ødegaard--------Baumgartner
--------------------Ibrahimovic

Subs: Simón, Maehle, Salisu, Maatsen, Laimer, Saint-Maximin, Lucca

Captain: Joachim Andersen
Free Kicks: Berardi/Ødegaard
Penalties: Berardi

Our defensive unit consists of Joachim Andersen and Levi Colwill paired up at centre-back, Tino Livramento at right-back and Andrea Cambiaso at left-back, with Ethan Ampadu and Pierre-Emile Höjbjerg as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Ampadu 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 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 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, 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 Domenico Berardi, Martin Ødegaard and Christoph Baumgartner as our band of three attacking midfielders with Zlatan Ibrahimovic as our lone central striker.

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

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

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

Livramento and Cambiaso can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Ampadu and Höjbjerg can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Domenico Berardi and Christoph Baumgartner, who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers, will cut inside or make runs into the box.

Martin Ødegaard, our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders. Ødegaard 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 Berardi, Baumgartner and Ibrahimovic to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other..

Upfront Ibrahimovic is our classical style all round centre forward, a real number 9 who has the ability to be a bully, but also has the technical ability to be more than just a menace to our opponents defenders.

Whilst 6ft 3in tall he isn’t just about his height, he is a great ball player and has great positional awareness. He'll cause our opponents some big problems with his ability to play off the last man, draw defenders wide and drop in and link up with midfielders. But most of all, he is a lethal finisher and a natural goal poacher.

Subs on 70 mins
Saint-Maximin on for Baumgartner and Lucca on for Ibrahimovic

Double substitution - Dynamic pace, dribbling, and unpredictality from Saint-Maximin and a focal point for the attacking midfielders in Lucca during the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line.

Sorry Grimaldo in for Cambiaso as I've loaned Cambiaso out. Still fine for u21s 👍

Balanced 4-2-3-1

U21: Everyone
U19: Fabio Silva, Mengi

We play a balanced 4-2-3-1 with pace and athleticism throughout the side as we look to take the game to the Toon. The lads have had a nice walk in the park last few games, and we expect the same. Attacking down the wings with fbs providing width, and a strong double pivot in front of the defence. The width from the fbs, and protection of the double pivot giving our attacking midfield trio freedom in attack.

Attack starts in the dressing room when the referee tells us the opposition are stuck in traffic, so we attack from the back with two of the best ball playing cbs in the world not in the squad and replaced by kids, with the double pivot in front offering a solid spine. Silva starts up top for his high energy in attack and defence, with the pace of our wingers to exploit space he creates.

In behind is a kid who has been given the day off by his headteacher, and is given freedom to drift wide or central to find space, link with the wingers and fbs to cut open the Toon defence.

In defence Kamara remains zonally, Lokonga who press the space ball side.

Mengi the main man marker as he is a strong marker and allows Kouassi to use his reading of the game and pace to sweep up. In midfield, the attacking mid trio narrow in front of the double pivot. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play.

The fbs play high in attack, and as they have strong wingers so we look to force them to go deep in order to get the ball or push them wide.

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 cms who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid attacking mid 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, the two cms support creating and linking, 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.

—————————————- Trubin ———————————
Vanderson —— T. Kouassi —— Mengi —— Gvardiol
—————————- Musiala—— Lokonga ——————
——————————————————————————————
K.Gordon ——————— J.Felix ————— Hudson-Odoi
-————————————— F.Silva ————————


Subs. Henderson, L.Thomas, Thiago, B.Fernandes, Gnabry, Lautaro

Defence

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 the space in the middle 3rd of the park. In this formation we don’t press the ball, we conserve energy and seek to keep them deep. Stop them breaking and make them try and force 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 hurt us, by leaving no space between the lines.

If they even turn up, when they advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape remains rigid and narrows to side of play.

Silva in the space in between the opposition defence on the side of play.

When they 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 force them into the corner.


Subs.
Bring on Gnabry for Gordon after 60 mins.
Bring on Thiago and Lautaro for Silva and CHO. Move Musiala wide.

U21: Ilan Meslier, Gabriel Menino, Mohamed Simakan, Pascal Struijk, Mitchell Bakker, Phil Foden, Aaron Hickey, Michael Olise, Joe Gelhardt (9)

U19: Aaron Hickey, Joe Gelhardt

--------------------Meslier

Menino---Simakan---Struijk---Bakker

-------------------Jorginho

-------------De Paul-----Foden

Chiesa------------Kane----------Zaha

Woodman
Hickey
White
Milinkovic-Savic
Olise
Depay
Gelhardt

A pretty young side for today, as we look to experiment with personnel. Our defence is young, but that is no bad thing, and we have plenty of experienced and proven quality elsewhere in the team to compensate. I have opted for a return to the standard 4-3-3 for us today, with Jorginho sat deepest in a midfield three with Rodrigo de Paul (making his full debut) and Phil Foden. Mohamed Simakan and Pascal Struijk gives us a well balanced defensive pairing, and in Menino and Bakker we have FBs capable of blockbuster performances up and down the line. The attack is full of quality, with Chiesa and Kane amongst world leaders in their positions, and Zaha a bag full of energy and unpredictability operating down the left hand side. I want to see us adopt the same way of playing as usual, with a high tempo possession/press approach. Movement of the ball should be quick and zingy, no more than three touches in the defensive third, four in the middle, and more leniency up top, to allow for driving runs from our attackers. Off the ball, I want us to press high, forcing Brentford into mistakes, and getting ourselves back in possession as quickly as possible.

I have opted for a back four for today, with Jorginho screening just in front of them. Meslier is in behind, a sweeper keeper adept with his feet, and we will operate a medium line, not too deep, but not so far forward as to leave ourselves exposed, operating midway through our half when in possession. In Jorgy and Meslier we should have easy options to keep the ball moving, and De Paul and Foden can also alternate in spinning off their man and dropping deeper to help provide options. Each of my defenders are comfortable on the ball, so keeping hold of possession in key areas shoud be simple. Bakker and Menino will both have the license to attack and support their winger, with Jorginho keeping himself deep in midfield, effectively meaning we should always have at least three players operating in either the deep middle third, or the defensive third. In Foden and De Paul, we have two skilled technicians that are also capable runners of the ball in midfield, meaning that we should be able to break through these areas, and using these players to transition from defence into attack will be the preferred route, as it will mean that Zaha and Chiesa can keep themselves pushed up, to keep their FBs anchored deep. Although, I would like to see the two wingers drop off when the ball enters the middle third, to better facilitate them turning and running at the opposition back line. When it comes to individual defending at the back, I want to see Struijk sticking to their main attacker, using his physical presence to prevent them from having time or space to operate in, whilst Simakan will operate as the covering defender, due to him having slightly more pace.

When on the ball in the attacking areas, I want to see Kane operating as the focal point to the attack. He can drop off, on occasion, to facilitate runs in beyond him, in space that this might create. Primarily, however, I want him between the goalposts, causing a hassle for their defence, and looking to get on the end of dangerous balls in behind, or crosses into the books (which will be primarily stood up by the overlapping WBs). Chiesa and Zaha will tuck inside, whilst the FBs attack the wide spaces on the overlap, where we are hoping to overload them. RDP and Foden will also push forward, and one or the other can alternate in making attacking runs into the penalty area, whilst the other sits deeper, hoping to pick up on loose balls out, so that we can recycle possession loss into a persistent attacking machine. I want to see Zaha and Chiesa carrying the ball, and running at the opposition, tying them in knots. The two are so tricky, that the simplicity of Harry Kane dispatching the ball past the Brentford keeper will be a blessed relief for their defenders.

In terms of engaging the press, I want to see it high and intense. Kane will take their CBs, whilst Zaha and Chiesa will operate on their FBs, not allowing them to utilis these as an out ball. Foden will sit on their deepest midfielder, whilst RDP will shuttle in the midfield, going box-to-box against any ball carriers in this area. This will hopefully buy time for our FBs to get back in shape, or, in the best scenario, win ourselves possession back high up the pitch.

Substitutions

Rodrigo De Paul and Federico Chiesa off for Milinkovic Savic and Michael Olise 70 mins

Fresh legs in the middle, and a chance for the delightfully unpredictable Olise to shine, causing problems for their defenders with his wide array of attacking talents.

If winning

Phil Foden off for Ben White 77 mins

Switch to a 3-4-3, with White slotting in at CB, with Struijk and Simakan either side of him.

If losing/drawing

Jorginho off for Joe Gelhardt 77 mins

Switch to a 4-1-3-2, with a midfield pivot of SMS and Foden, whilst Gelhardt will play up top with Kane, looking to use his quick feet and trickery to buy us a chance.