Lukeba injured sorry will have to change

comment by Fan Gillhaus 1903 (U3339)
posted 1 minute ago
man utd v CHELSEA

---------------------- Martinez -----------------------

Ben White - C. Romero - O.Boscagli - M. Kerkez

---------- B.Guimaraes ---- Fabian. Ruiz ---------

M.Olise ----------- Bellingham ----------- Barcola

----------------------- Mbappe -----------------------

Henderson, Acheampong, Fernandez, S.Nypan, Guirassy, Yildiz, Marmoush

We need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. We have plenty pace, power and most importantly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line even if they get numbers back we will look to expose the gaps and dominate that part of the pitch, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly.

Boscagli is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger, AM, No.10)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Romero to take care of the main man, the CF in for a tough game despite how big and strong he is, Romero is equal to him, both stick to their jobs, give the striker a yard or two, dont sit right on him as if he is lost then the striker is away, giving them a wee bit of room allows them time to adjust to where he is going and gives them that extra second to manouver into position to stop the threat and stop the attack, dont dive in, just shimmy the player to give him second thoughts on what he is doing, allowing our boys to win the ball and get it away from danger, both very good and coming out from the back with the ball and will look to set up attacks from the back, if under pressure boot it away if you have too.

Our fullbacks will come inside to squeeze the opposition and force them backwards, I want no gaps allowing them to be dangerous, close them down quickly, I want Guimaraes taking care of the AM or the most advanced CM if the AM is being marked by some one else, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the midfield with that extra player so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, Kerkez look to push wide allowing Barcola to cut inside, one twos which will either get Kerkez out wide to cross in or Mbappe to get into the box with a nice slide rule pass, B.White likewise on the right, with Olise ahead of him drive down the line looking for one twos allowing Olise to cut inside with or without the ball to create spaces for White to move into.

Bruno and Fabian must be patient, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Bruno doing the marking job on the most advanced midfielder opposition may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, when attacking Bruno sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our 2 CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. Fabian has more license today and will will provide more creativity & will push a little further forward allowing Bellingham to push on and support Mbappe in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area be creative with his passing, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.

Bellingham in a No.10/Free role is the link between midfield and attack in a free role, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Mbappe who will be making runs to get himself into space, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play and really drive at there defense, let the pass go as players come onto him, as this will take them out them game and less for our attackers to worry about, plenty options for him to aim for if he decides not to go for goal himself and he is always good for a goal or two. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediate so will always help out the midfield by closing down any runners from deep and look to block the ball/player from advancing, look to start attacks very quickly.

Our front three, full of goals, speed and frightening for the best ofr defenders to face, Our wingers are extremely quick and tricky, also a huge goal threat, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack squeeze the midfield as they play quite narrow, make sure their fullbacks attacks are nulified just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, Olise and Barcola will cause them problems drifting in an out, with pace I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Jude and the midfield more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Mbappe who can beat any defender with power/pace/movement, 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 Mbappe to run onto, we must always make sure he is well supported, especially wingers and Bellingham, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.

Captain - Romero
Pens - Mbappe
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Corners - Wingers

Losing -
65 Mins - Marmoush for Fabian, Bellingham into midfield, Marmoush up top 424/442
73 Mins - Guirassy for Kerkez, he goes into a central No.9 position, we can use the high ball to him so he can look to lay it off for Mbappe/Marmoush, Yildiz for Barcola

Winning -
75 Mins - Enzo for Fabian, Yildiz for Barcola, Marmoush for Mbappe

Drawing -
70 Mins - Acheampong for White, more attack minded, Yildiz for Barcola, Nypan for Fabian, Bellingham drop back into midfield, Nypan into the free role
----------------------------------------------------------------------

VIILA v watford

----------------------- D.Raya -----------------------

J. Kounde -- M. Guehi -- P. Torres -- Robertson

------- Tielemans -- Kamara -- Goncalves -------

-- M. Rogers -------- Watkins ------- Raphinha --

Meret, Vanderson, Robinson, Mouzakitis, Grealish, J.David, Retegui

A solid back 4 with Guehi looking to pick up the main striker so needs to stay strong and not be bullied, he is quick and powerful, be on his toes at all times looking to intercept any ball through to the CF nip in ahead when he can but nothing rash so he doesnt lose out in possession. Pau alongside, again a very tough, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Guehi if needed or pick up a CF/SS/AM, Both can play it out Pau in particular and very good on the ball so no need for rash punts up field unless required and no other option, will look to play it to the fullbacks or the midfielders ahead

Fullbacks will attack at the same time look for the one/two with the winger ahead but will time these and not bomb forward willy nilly, Robertson will be driving down the line, Kounde moving in central allowing the midfield bar Kamara to push forward, can also use the CMs for quick passing to get the winger passed the opposition fullbacks. defensively, stay strong, keep the wingers to the outside away from danger, try and keep them on there 'bad' foot so they find it difficult to get a cross in, I do not want to see my defenders dive in, so stay tall and use upper body strength to keep there chances to a minimum. This is a solid back 4 who will be difficult to attack, must stay focussed.

The 3 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Kamara is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes he will be there snapping at his heals, he doesnt venture very far from hwere he need to be thus giving support to the back line. Goncalves is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Kamara and Tielemans making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball. Tielemans will be allowed to roam and pick out players at will, he can push more forward, when attacking he moves into a free role/No.10, will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he and Goncalves are our creative sparks in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence the trio are very solid, just hassle the midfield and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.

Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks, really take them on, either with skill and pace or at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking

Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, always dragging players away to make space for himself and others, getting into dangerous positions waiting for the ball to come his way, he makes runs other forwards dont he has the intelligence find the space for others to find, he should get plenty supply, he doesnt defend, no need too, if he stays up top this will stop their defenders moving forward especially with the 3 behind buzzing around.

Captain - Pau Torres
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - Goncalves/Tielemans
Corners - Wingers

Losing -
65 Mins - Retegui for Goncalves 442/424
70 Mins - Grealish for Robertson, Grealish to LM, J.David for Raphinha, he goes to No10 3412

Winning -
75 Mins - Mouzakitis for Goncalves, fresh legs with a bit of grit, Retegui for Watkins, Grealish for Raphinha

Drawing -
70 Mins - J.David for Goncalves and to No10, Grealish for Raphinha
80 Mins - Mouzakitis for Tielemans

Watford: League Week 18 – Away to Villa
Captain: Jones
Vice-Captain: Collins

---------------Mamardashvili
Bradley---Collins---Murillo--Vanderlan
-------------Evertton--Jones
--------------------MGW
Domínguez-----------------------Prestianni
--------------------Castro

SUBS: Kelleher, Wesley, Beraldo, Redondo, Enciso, Fernandez, Alberto

SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with Evertton as the holding/defensive midfielder who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (Jones). In front of them MGW 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’ Jones will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with MGW 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: Mamardashvili 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 Evertton as the one holding/defensive midfielder. 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 (Jones). 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 MGW 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 Domínguez and Prestianni 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 MGW, Jones and Castro 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 Jones may sit a bit deeper allowing MGW 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.
Castro 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: MGW, Prestianni or Domínguez with Collins, Murillo and Castro to offer an aerial threat. MGW and Prestianni (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 – Beraldo for Collins, Redondo for Evertton and Alberto for Castro.
If losing (60 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Jones with Alberto and Domínguez with Fernandez. 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.
----------------Evertton
Fernandez---MGW---Prestianni
-------------Alberto--Castro

Newcastle United v BRENTFORD

Starting XI
🇳🇱 Bart Verbruggen
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Rico Lewis
🇳🇱 Jan Paul van Hecke
🇳🇱 Micky van de Ven
🇦🇷 Valentín Barco
🇨🇴 Richard Ríos
🇺🇸 Johnny Cardoso
🇨🇮 Amad Diallo
🇭🇺 Dominik Szoboszlai
🇧🇷 João Pedro
🇳🇴 Alexander Sørloth

________________🇳🇱Verbruggen
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Lewis_🇳🇱van Hecke_🇳🇱van de Ven_🇦🇷Barco
_________🇨🇴Richard Ríos____🇺🇸Johnny
____________🇨🇮Amad______🇭🇺Szoboszlai
__________🇧🇷João Pedro_____🇳🇴Sørloth


Subs
🇫🇷 Lucas Chevalier
🇹🇷 Ferdi Kadıoğlu
🇬🇷 Konstantinos Koulierakis
🇧🇪 Diego Moreira
🇩🇰 Morten Hjulmand
🇩🇰 Matt O'Riley
🇦🇷 Thiago Almada


Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Sørloth

Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.

What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?

The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.

The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.

The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.

The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.


What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?

The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.

The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.

The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.

The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.

Subs on 67 mins
Kadıoğlu on for Lewis
Moreira on for Barco

Sub on 78 mins
Almada on for Amad (Szoboszlai RAM & Almada LAM)

------------------------ 🇸🇮 Oblak
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 R.James -- 🇫🇷 Konate -- 🇺🇾 Araujo -- 🇫🇷 Lucas.H
---- 🇳🇱 F.de Jong --- 🇮🇹 Tonali --- 🇦🇷 Mac Allister
---------------------- 🇧🇪 De Bruyne
-------------- 🇦🇷 Lautaro.M -- 🇵🇹 R.Leao

Subs:
Restes, Scalvini, Vitinha, McTominay, L.Sane, Martinelli, Evanilson

Tactics:

Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-3-1-2 formation today as we aim for the win. We will look to dictate the play and take the game to the opposition. When they’re in possession we sit deep, our CM’s marshalling the middle of the park, breaking down the opposition and setting up us on the counter. We feel that we have the perfect set up to open them up on the counter with quick passing as we transition from defence to attack.

Whilst the opposition have some dangerous players we will look to significantly limit their impact by retaining possession, we will force them to track back or risk leaving their defence exposed when we push forward in numbers. We aim to make things uncomfortable for them and feel that limiting their ability to have the ball in attacking areas will severely limit any threat posed.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with pace and quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Konate will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Araujo will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top or picking up their second CF if two up top.

Our fullbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have supporting cover in behind. If they play two up top our FB's will narrow, offering additional cover in behind the CB's. When in possession both having license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third. We look to draw the opposition onto us by sitting deep when they are in possession, limiting the space in behind and drawing them further up the field creating space for us to hit them on the counter.

Midfield:

We go with a top class midfield trio as we aim to
dominate in the middle of the park. Tonali in the middle, top class DM we rely on his fantastic reading of the game ball playing ability to break down the opposition.

De Jong & Mac Allister occupy the CM spots. Both strong ball carriers with Frenkie’s top quality distribution from deep setting us up on the attack and allowing us to control the play by retaining possession. Mac Allister has license to get forward and has a ferocious strike from distance. When he does Frenkie will sit in alongside Tonali to protect the defence as Mac Allister joins KDB in an attacking role.

Completing our midfield we have the instrumental De Bruyne. He plays in the AM role and has free roam to push forward when in possession. A player with superb vision he will look to get on the ball as much as possible, running at the opposition drawing them in and committing a defender before playing that decisive ball. We look for him to play between the lines, dropping into pockets of space and supplying our forwards with our front two ready to pounce at any moment.

He’s also a poses a real goal threat, perfectly capable of arriving late in the opposition box to finish or striking a thunderbolt from distance. If the opposition drop off he has license to go for goal at any opportunity.

Forward:

Up top we go for goals with the paring of Lautaro and Leao. Lautaro thrives in a front two especially with a pacy powerful player next to him. We want Leao to stretch their defence, use his pace to get in behind as he will thrive off of the perfectly weighted through balls from KDB and our creative midfielders.

Lautaro plays alongside him and will thrive with the supply line around him. The brief is simple, get into the box and put the ball in the back of the net. With Leao alongside him Lautaro could well find himself in one on one match ups in which he thrives. Play on the shoulder of the last man and as always be on your toes in the box, ready to pounce and finish anything that comes your way.

If winning:
70 mins: De Bruyne off, Vitinha on. Control the tempo whilst Mac Allister moves to 10.
80 mins: Mac Allister off, McTominay on.
85 mins: Leao off, Evanilson on.

If drawing/losing:
70 mins: James & Tonali off. Evanilson & Sane on.
80 mins: Mac Allister off, McTominay on.

-------------- Oblak
R.Araujo -- Konate -- Lucas.H
------ De Jong - McTominay
L.Sane - De Bruyne - R.Leao
------ Lautaro - Evanilson

-------------------- 🇮🇹 Donnarumma ---------------------
🇲🇦 Hakimi - 🇳🇱 Van Dijk --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni - 🇮🇹 Udogie
----------- 🇵🇹 João Neves --- 🇨🇲 Baleba ---------------
--- 🇫🇷 R.Cherki ---- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz ---- 🇳🇱 X.Simons ----
----------------------- 🇳🇴 Haaland ------------------------

Subs:
Trafford, Huijsen, Cambiaso, Perrone, N.Paz, Salah, Kane

Tactics:

We look to move the ball at speed as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim for the win.

Our DM & CM pivot will marshall the middle of the park allowing our exciting attacking AM trio the freedom to push forward and wreak havoc in support of the big man up top. The technical brilliance and creativity of Cherki, Wirtz & Simons gives us the capability of carving through our opponents at will in the final third with each of them capable of picking that killer pass. Danger from all angles all 3 are capable of finding the back of the net at any opportunity.

We look to this attacking trio to link up with our hitman the up top with Haaland to be in heaven with the service around him and a man in fine form we fancy him to thrive.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Van Dijk will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. He won’t however need to do it singlehandedly with Bastoni next to him to act as cover.

Our fullbacks have license to get forward with Hakimi and Udogie offering us some natural width on the flanks and both have superb delivery in the final third as they look to whip balls in from out wide.

Midfield:

Our midfield dup will be key to our success. Baleba will be our anchor in the middle operating as our DM. A bundle of energy capable of covering every blade of grass he’ll be shielding our defence, breaking up the opposition play, disrupting them AM and cutting out the passing lane to their CF, taking away one of their biggest weapons.

He combines perfectly with the technical brilliance of Joao Neves. The youngster is a delightful player, strong defensively whilst also possessing the passing ability to allow us to dictate the tempo of the game. He’ll link perfectly with Wirtz ahead of him, a combination of master and the apprentice as we look to them dominate the middle of the park.

Baleba provides the steel whilst Neves provides the creativity from deep. Together they will protect the defence and get in the face of the opposition. We look to set the tempo and these two will be the catalyst, dispossess the opposition, get the ball to our forwards wreak havoc at the other end.

Forwards:

In attack we have the perfect blend of pace, power and creativity in abundance.

Our trio of AM’s have the freedom to cause havoc as they see fit. Cherki on the right will look to be direct, use his pace and skill to go at his man, with Hakimi in support we will look to overwhelm down the right hand side. Quick one two’s with Wirtz will also open up space on the edge of the box with the Frenchman lethal when presented with half a chance.

On the opposite flank Simons offers a bundle of energy and creativity, again the interplay between the 3 AM’s will be a joy to behold as we look to build patiently, draw the opposition of our position creating space for us to go at goal. Technical brilliance and eye for goal for distance the young Dutchman offers a different threat down the left.

Wirtz plays centrally and has license to go for goal at any opportunity. He can also drift wide to avoid being man marked as the quick interplay between the trio should cause plenty of problems in the final third.

With a dream supply line around him Haaland will be in his element. He’ll play on the last man ready to pounce on a through ball by our AM’s. A complete forward he offers the dual threat of being deadly in the air and a natural born goalscorer with the ball at his feet.

When on the attack he’ll be looking to do what he does best, get himself in the box and finish any chances that come his way. With the pace and power to overwhelm any CB he’ll thrive off of the service of Cherki, Wirtz & Simons as we aim to put on a show in our final game of the season.

Subs:

If winning:
70 mins: Simons off, Salah on. Switch flanks.
80 mins: Haaland off, Kane on.

If drawing/losing:
60 mins: Simons off, Salah on.
70 mins: Baleba off, Kane on. 4-1-3-2 with the trio of Salah, Wirtz, Cherki supporting the front two of Kane & Kane. Goals galore.

-------------- Donnarumma -----------
Hakimi - Van Dijk - Bastoni - Udogie
--------------- Joao Neves -------------
--- M.Salah --- F.Wirtz --- R.Cherki -
----------- Haaland -- Kane -----------

Leicester vs Arsenal
Fluid 4-2-2-2 High tempo

We setup to control the game with a small variation in our shape, we lineup with intention of playing a 4-2-2-2, expecting Arsenal playing on the counter. We have a flexible lineup however, and if we find Arsenal are playing possession football, higher up the park and are aren’t sitting as deep then Musiala can easily drop to cm, with Kvaratskhelia as CAM changing to 4-3-1-2.

The tactics and player instructions remain the same anyway bar Musiala and Kvarat, the key difference with the 4-2-2-2 is it gives us more options to attack a deeper sitting side, with more runners out wide.

Against a deep sitting side, Rodri, Valverde and a high line have the quality and shape to dominate possession. If we find we don’t have control Musiala coming inside to cm gives us a better shape to control and dominate possession. A deep site invites pressure, so we would accept the invitation.

We play a fluid attacking team full of pace and power and a high tempo, dominate possession in cm with pace up top and width from attacking fbs to stretch the game. Fbs playing high and wide, stretching the game to allow our midfield to dominate and control the game. Two attacking midfielders with freedom to attack down the wings or come inside.

Two forwards with pace, bully their defenders and create space for the other forward or midfielders. Isak will naturally drift left, pulling defenders out of position for Musiala and Osimhen to expose.

Rodri and Valverde have the quality and athleticism at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Valverde in a box to box role, Rodri as the sitting cm providing cover and controlling the tempo of the game. Musiala and Kvaratskhelia will naturally come deep or find space to make themselves available in possession, giving us movement and players on different lines allowing us to quickly play through the Arsenal shape.

Rodri and Valverde provide a duo to control midfield and keep possession, defensively providing great cover for the attacking fbs. One fb bombing forward to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space. The other fb stays back expecting they’ll go with two forwards.

Importantly we have an attack full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate. Musiala and Kvaratskhelia with complete freedom to come deep, wide or go beyond the cfs.

With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar the man who will take fks/corners, Trent (5’11), are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully the opposition.

Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through them starting from the back, playing fast flowing football but varying the tempo when we need to slow down and regain control.

We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.

————————————— Alisson
Trent.A —— Marquinhos —— Militao —— Theo.H
————————- Valverde —— Rodri
——— Musiala —————————— Kvaratskhelia ——
———————— Osimhen ——— Isak

Subs. Sanchez, Branthwaite, Gravenberch, Odegaard, Foden, N.Williams, Delap

Defending high

When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape. Alvarez drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the 3 cms narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Musiala is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.

Gvardiol the man-marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Valverde and Odegaard either side of him, and just slightly ahead of him pressing the play in line of 3 cms. Musiala zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Alvarez marks their deepest cm. Alvarez and Musiala giving our cms ability to press and narrow to the side opposition are attacking. In zones to stop their attacking midfielders and allowing Rodri to cover or step in if one cm needs to step out to press or to help the fb.

In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options.

Attack

Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.

We play a fluid front three, who switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This will help the players to get away from their markers, and create space.


Subs.

If winning after 68 mins bring on Williams for Osimhen. More pace in midfield.4-2-3-1, Musiala as CAM.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Gravenberch for Musiala. 4-3-3. Gets nod over Odegaard for his defensive side and dribbling.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Foden for Kvaratskhelia. Fresh pace to stretch United.

If losing or drawing after 66 mins bring on Williams and Foden for Valverde and Osimhen. Musiala cm next to Rodri, Foden in a free role, Williams on the right and Kvarat left.
If losing or drawing after 72 mins bring on Odegaard for Musiala and Delap for Trent. 3-5-2.

SPURS vs city

------------------------------------ Courtois --------------------------
Mazraoui-------------De Ligt----------Ake------------DiMarco
------------------------------------------Varela-----------------------------
-------------------Reijnders--------------------Stiller------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bakayoko--------‐----------------Vlahovic--------------------Rashford

Subs - Ramsdale, Garcia, Chukwuemeka, Bernardo, Ederson, Ferran, Biereth

CK - STILLER
FK - STILLER
PENALTIES - VLAHOVIC

The tactics today will be to press the oppo and not give them time on the ball. I want us to try to recover the ball as soon we lose it. So for 5 seconds after we lose possession I want the 2 closest players to the ball to relentlessly press the player who has the ball. If we can't get the ball back within that time I want you to slow down and conserve your energy. Get into a well balanced defensive shape and just try and intercept balls/put tackles in to win the ball back.

Defence
We have Courtois in net, a calm and collected keeper who is very comfortable with the ball at his feet so he won't crumble under any pressure if the oppo rushes in towards him when he has the ball as he has the ability to seamlessly play it out. He's a world class shot stopper aswell so the defence will be well assured having him in goal.
De ligt and Ake are two top class level CB's. I want one of them to stick close to the oppo striker while the other will mark any runners that try and play off of him. Put tackles in, hoof the ball out if need be, just defend! You both have good ball playing skills so if there's some space for you, you can bring the ball out a bit and try and play some lofted through balls for our forwards to run onto.

Full backs
Mazraoui + DiMarco
What we have here are 2 fullbacks who are blessed with the pace and athletic ability to help out both in attack and defence. You both are adapt at defending so you should know what the oppo wingers will do. You need to stop them cutting inside and getting shots and crosses into the box. Don't let them play off of your shoulders as they will try and get behind you and past you. Use your strength to get in front of them to win the ball back. Attacking wise I want them to get some crosses into the box as our strikers are a threat in the air. If we lose possession while you lot are in attacking positions quickly run back into your defensive position. Varela will be covering for you if you are out of position as a safety precaution.

Defence mid
Varela will be the anchor that helps the defence. He will only focus on defensive duties and will try and intercept any loose balls the oppo have in the attacking third. Put tackles in and cover for our fullbacks when they are attacking. Use your superior physical strength to outmuscle the oppo attackers and win the ball back deep to start a quick counter.
Centre Mids
Stiller + Reijnders
Reijnders will be the link from defence to attack. Main job is to get the ball from deep and to use your technical and dribbling ability to open up the oppo midfield. Make runs forward and play pass and move passes with teammates and help the attack whenever you can.
Stiller will play CM today. I want him to use his vision to spot the runs of our attackers and thread balls for them. You are the creative force in the middle so always be aware of where your teammates are and if you see a gap in the oppo, then pounce on it. He is a long shot specialist so if the ball is played out to him and he's within a shootable distance then shoot. I want him to make late runs into the oppo box as well from time to time.

Wingers
Both Bakayoko and Rashford will look to use their pace and dribbling ability to create chances from their flanks. When you have the ball in a dangerous position try and cut in onto your stronger foot and get a shot in or put some crosses into the box. When one of our creative CM's have the ball try and make runs off the oppo FB and beat tje offside trap. Drift infield between the oppo FB and CB from time to time to confuse the oppo aswell.

Vlahovic
Vlahovic will be the striker. Play aerial balls for him to bring down so he can bring others into play or through balls for him to run onto. When in the box use your ruthlessness and decisiveness to get into good positions away from oppo defenders and smash home any balls played into the box.

IF WINNING BY 75 MINS
Play deep and hit the oppo on the counter.
Take off Rashford and put on Garcia to give the defence even more protection.

IF LOSING BY 75 MINS
Take off Reijnders and put on Biereth in strike. Play close to each other and put a tonne of pressure in the oppo defence. Defend high up and try and score a goal.

IF DRAWING BY 80MINS
Ferran on for Rashford
Chukwuemeka for Reijnders

FA Cup

leicester v VILLA

-------------------- A.Meret ---------------------

J. Kounde - Coppola - G. Leoni - Robertson

----- Tielemans - Kimmich - Mouzakitis -----

-- M.Rogers ------ J.David ------- Adeyemi --

S.Tickle, Vanderson, P.Torres, Ouédraogo, Grealish, Moukoko, Mbeumo

The future of Italian defenders play today, two quick, big, mobile, strong defenders, yes up against the champs but hey ho, Leoni, will be looking to pick up the main striker so needs to stay strong and not be bullied, he is quick and powerful, be on his toes at all times looking to intercept any ball through to the CF nip in ahead when he can but nothing rash so he doesnt lose out in possession. Coppola alongside, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Leoni if needed or pick up a CF/SS/AM, Both can play it out and very good on the ball so no need for rash punts up field unless required and no other option, will look to play it to the fullbacks or the midfielders ahead

Fullbacks will attack at the same time look for the one/two with the winger ahead but will time these and not bomb forward willy nilly, Robertson will be driving down the line, Kounde moving in central allowing the midfield bar Kimmich to push forward, can also use the CMs for quick passing to get the winger passed the opposition fullbacks. defensively, stay strong, keep the wingers to the outside away from danger, try and keep them on there 'bad' foot so they find it difficult to get a cross in, I do not want to see my defenders dive in, so stay tall and use upper body strength to keep there chances to a minimum. This is a solid back 4 who will be difficult to attack, must stay focussed.

The 3 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Kimmich is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes he will be there snapping at his heals, he doesnt venture very far from here he need to be thus giving support to the back line in paricular talking the two young Cbs through the game. Mouzakitis is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Kimmich and Tielemans making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball. Tielemans will be allowed to roam and pick out players at will, he can push more forward, when attacking he moves into a free role/No.10, will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he and Mouzakitis are our creative sparks in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence the trio are very solid, just hassle the midfield and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.

Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks, really take them on, either with skill and pace or at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around J.David and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking

J.David, always on the last man across the back four, always dragging players away to make space for himself and others, getting into dangerous positions waiting for the ball to come his way, he makes runs other forwards dont he has the intelligence find the space for others to find, he should get plenty supply, he doesnt defend, no need too, if he stays up top this will stop their defenders moving forward especially with the 3 behind buzzing around.

Captain - Kimmich
Pens - Rogers
Free Kicks - Tielemans
Corners - Wingers

Losing -
65 Mins - Mbuemo and Moukoko for Mouzakitis and J.David they both go up front, Moukoko central, Mbuemo buzzing around, Grealish for Adeyemi

Drawing -
65 Mins - Grealish for Adeyemi, Mbuemo for Mouzakitis, will push on and support J.David, Vanderson for Kounde

Winning -
75 Mins - Ouédraogo for Mouzakitis, P.Torres for Adeyemi, Mbeumo for J.David

J.Kounde - Coppola - G.Leoni - P. Torres - Robertson
Tielemans - Kimmich - Ouédraogo
Mbuemo
J.David
5311

---------------------- Henderson ----------------------

Trai Hume ---- R. Dias ---- Lukeba ---- N.Mendes

------------ Declan Rice --- Fabian Ruiz ------------

A.Guler ------------ Bellingham ----------- K.Yildiz

--------------------- O.Marmoush ---------------------

Epolo, B.White, S.Nypan, M.Olise, Barcola, M.Cunha, Guirassy

We need to use our pace, power and we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. We have all that in abundance and most importantly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line even if they get numbers back we will look to expose the gaps and dominate that part of the pitch, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly.

Dias is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger, AM, No.10)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Lukeba to take care of the main man, the CF in for a tough game despite how big and strong he is, Lukeba is equal to him, both stick to their jobs, give the striker a yard or two, dont sit right on him as if he is lost then the striker is away, giving them a wee bit of room allows them time to adjust to where he is going and gives them that extra second to manouver into position to stop the threat and stop the attack, dont dive in, just shimmy the player to give him second thoughts on what he is doing, allowing our boys to win the ball and get it away from danger, both very good and coming out from the back with the ball and will look to set up attacks from the back, if under pressure boot it away if you have too.

Our fullbacks will come inside to squeeze the opposition and force them backwards, I want no gaps allowing them to be dangerous, close them down quickly, I want Rice taking care of the AM or the most advanced CM if the AM is being marked by some one else, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the midfield with that extra player so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, Mendes look to push wide allowing Yildiz to cut inside, one twos which will either get Mendes out wide to cross in or Mbappe to get into the box with a nice slide rule pass, T.Hume likewise on the right, with Guler ahead of him drive down the line looking for one twos allowing Guler to cut inside with or without the ball to create spaces for White to move into.

Rice and Fabian must be patient, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Rice doing the marking job on the most advanced midfielder opposition may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, when attacking Rice sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our 2 CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. Fabian has more license today and will will provide more creativity & will push a little further forward allowing Bellingham to push on and support Marmoush in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area be creative with his passing, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.

Bellingham in a No.10/Free role is the link between midfield and attack in a free role, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Mbappe who will be making runs to get himself into space, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play and really drive at there defense, let the pass go as players come onto him, as this will take them out them game and less for our attackers to worry about, plenty options for him to aim for if he decides not to go for goal himself and he is always good for a goal or two. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediate so will always help out the midfield by closing down any runners from deep and look to block the ball/player from advancing, look to start attacks very quickly.

Our front three, full of goals, speed and frightening for the best ofr defenders to face, Our wingers are extremely quick and tricky, also a huge goal threat, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack squeeze the midfield as they play quite narrow, make sure their fullbacks attacks are nulified just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, Guler and Yildiz will cause them problems drifting in an out, with pace I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Jude and the midfield more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Mbappe who can beat any defender with power/pace/movement, 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 Marmoush to run onto, we must always make sure he is well supported, especially wingers and Bellingham, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.

Captain - Dias
Pens - Bellingham
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Corners - Wingers

Losing -
65 Mins - Bellingham drop into midfield, Guirassy for F.Ruiz and go up front, Olise for Guler, Barcola for Yildiz

Drawing -
70 Mins - Olise for Guler, Barcola for Yildiz, Guirassy for F.Ruiz, Bellingham into Midfield, marmoush to No10, Giruassy up top, long/high ball if need be

Winning -
75 Mins - B.White for Hume, Cunha for Marmoush
83 mins - Nypan for Bellingham

Manchester United v BRENTFORD

🤕🤧🤒🤢
Jonas Urbig
Thiago Almada
Morten Hjulmand
Georges Mikautadze

________________🇳🇱Verbruggen
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Lewis_🇳🇱van Hecke_🇳🇱van de Ven_🇳🇱Maatsen
___________🇺🇸Cardoso____🇳🇱de Jong
_________🇧🇪De Ketelaere__🇭🇺Szoboszlai
__________🇧🇷João Pedro____🇫🇷Bonny

Subs
🇫🇷 Lucas Chevalier
🇹🇷 Ferdi Kadıoğlu
🇬🇷 Konstantinos Koulierakis
🇩🇪 Nathaniel Brown
🇨🇴 Richard Ríos
🇬🇭 Antoine Semenyo
🇳🇴 Alexander Sørloth

Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai

Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.

What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?

The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.

The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.

The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.

The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.


What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?

The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.

The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.

The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.

The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.

Subs on 67 mins
Kadıoğlu on for Lewis
Brown on for Maatsen

Sub on 78 mins
Semenyo on for João Pedro

Leicester vs Villa
Fluid 4-3-3 High tempo

We setup to dominate possession and control the game. Pace and power to stretch the Villa defence, a slight tweak to our formation with a double pivot giving us more cover defensively.

We’ll have width in attack from a fb bombing forward, with the double pivot offering more cover. Gravenberch plays in that box to box role but from a slightly deeper and central position giving us greater strength and cover defensively.

Three forwards with pace and who can create something from nothing. A fluid front three who will have freedom in attack to drift, and pull players out of position for the other attackers and midfield to expose.

A young midfield trio with a mix of everything. Gravenberch and Andrey have the energy and quality on the ball to find the attackers in space and get forward into dangerous positions themselves, Wharton as the sitting cm providing cover and controlling the tempo of the game.

Gravenberch next to Wharton, provide a duo to control midfield and keep possession, defensively providing great cover for the attacking fbs. Slightly more cautious today with only one fb bombing forward at a time to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.

Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate.

With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Hall, Nwaneri and Andrey (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully the opposition.

Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through them starting from the back, playing fast flowing football but varying the tempo when we need to slow down and regain control.

We look to play attacking total football, so we play a high line, but slightly more cautious/not as high as normal. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to. We have the pace at the back, and best one on one goalkeeper if it came to if to play this.

————————————- Alisson
Livramento —— Militao —— Branthwaite —— L.Hall
—————- Gravenberch —— Wharton
———————————— Andrey.S
—— Nwaneri——————————————— N.Williams —
—————————————- Isak

Subs. Sanchez, Marquinhos, Rodri, Odegaard, Foden, Kvaratskhelia, Delap

Defending high

When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape.

The team narrow to the side of play, we leave two of the front 3 forward, one wide player drops deep on the side Villa are attacking. The other wide player comes central and looks to simply sit Villa goal side on their deepest cm, ready to nip in and steal the ball if played to him while also making their cm look over his shoulder and worry he’s not covering. This has the other winger in a deeper position already to get back in if they switch the play.

Militao the man-marker next to Branthwaite who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Wharton as dm in position to cover, Gravenberch ball side of him, and Andrey just ahead of Wharton, closing the passing lanes and in position to press or drop to the opposite if it comes his way.

In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options.

Attack

Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.

We play a fluid front three, who switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This will help the players to get away from their markers, and create space.


Subs.

If winning after 70 mins bring on Foden for Nwaneri. Pace against tired legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Rodri for Wharton.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Delap for Isak. Fresh pace and power.

If losing or drawing after 66 mins bring on Odegaard and Kvaratskhelia for Andrey and Nwaneri.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Foden for Wharton. Gravenberch dm, Odegaard lcm, Foden AM.

Watford – Cup QF vs Newcastle
Captain – Collins
Vice Captain – Jones

---------------Mamardashvili
Wesley--Collins--Murillo--Cuiabano
--------------Evertton--Jones
Domínguez-----White----Henrique
-------------------Castro


SUBS – Brazao, Vanderlan, Quansah, Moscardo, Gómez, Prestiani, Alberto


Today we will concentrate on doing what we do best and playing to our strengths – keeping hold of the ball and working it simply around the park. Nothing flash or risky – just possession football. Patience could be the key and if we keep it tight we have the personnel to get us a goal. We have pace to move the ball forward very quickly and enough pace to regain our shape if the opposition turn it around and try and counter us. This is a formation that can slot into a number of systems. We can easily slip into a 4-3-3, 4-5-1 or a 4-4-2 depending on how the match pans out. When defending it will be more of a defensive 4-4-2 with Jones and Evertton holding in the middle and both wingers doing their bit defensively. The whole team will sit that wee bit deeper but always ready for any possible counter.

With the ability of our team to change formation depending on the circumstances I think we have enough in midfield and out wide to cause them a few headaches. We will be looking to get bodies in the box. With fast and fluid attacking play Castro will always have support in this area and our wide men will always have a target to get the ball in to. With the trickery of White, Domínguez and Henrique, the opposition can always expect the unexpected when we are on the attack. We will not be afraid to hit them on the counter as with our full backs and wingers we have enough speed and skill to cause problems. We will also be very respectful of what the opposition can do and will look to press them with urgency when we are looking the ball. We will take the risks we need to open them up ONLY when the correct chance arises. In saying that we will have a measured approach and if they try to play with a high tempo we will match that. We are not here to let them dictate the game. We will play it how we want to play and we will have a right go at them.
We will use Evertton and Jones to dictate the tempo of the play to suit our moment. I think with our mobility and physicality we can really stamp our authority on this area right from the off. The wingers will be asked to vary the attack between taking the full backs on the outside, or cutting inside. Whatever seems right at the moment – in order to carve up their defence. The pace of the wingers will cause a lot of headaches and the ability of both wingers and the AM to interchange positions will be something we will use to add to the confusion in the opposition ranks. We will look for our midfield to make it very difficult for them to link up play between their midfield and the front men – hopefully meaning their attack will not see a whole lot of the ball.
Without the ball we will look to White and the wingers/CF to press and give the opposition no space at all to work in. When in possession we will take our time and keep our passing neat and simple. We will be looking for White (supported by Jones) to orchestrate our attacks. He will be the main man in creating the openings. We will look to our speed outside and on the overlap as well as the cleverness of White in playing the ball through and behind the defenders giving our attacking widemen and CF plenty of ammunition to get on the end of.
Free Kicks/Corners - White, Henrique and Domínguez with Murillo, Collins and Castro expected to go up for attacking set plays.

Penalties - Castro or Henrique

SUBS

If Winning (on 75 mins) – Quansah for Murillo and Prestiani for Domínguez – (Straight Swap)
If losing (on 70 mins) – Alberto for Evertton, and Prestiani for Domínguez (Switch to attacking 4-1-3-2):
------------------Jones
Prestiani----White---Henrique
------------Castro --Alberto

---------------------- 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Trafford -------------------------
🇲🇦 Hakimi -- 🇪🇸 Huijsen --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni - 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 L.Skelly
--------------- 🇪🇨 Caicedo --- 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Bellingham ----------
--- 🇪🇬 M.Salah ---- 🇦🇷 Nico Paz ---- 🇫🇷 Dembele ----
------------------------- 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Kane --------------------------

Subs:
Donnarumma, Udogie, Neves, Simons, Wirtz, Cherki, Ekitike

Tactics:

We mix it up in the cup with no less than 9 changes to our previous lineup giving some of our back up players a chance to prove their worth. Moving the ball at speed will be the name of the game as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim for the win.

Our DM & CM pivot will marshall the middle of the park allowing our exciting attacking AM trio the freedom to push forward and wreak havoc in support of the big man up top. The technical brilliance and creativity of Salah, Paz & Dembele gives us the capability of carving through our opponents at will in the final third with each of them capable of picking that killer pass. Danger from all angles all 3 are capable of finding the back of the net at any opportunity.

We look to this attacking trio to link up with our hitman the up top with Kane to be in heaven with the service around him and a man in fine form we fancy him to thrive.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Bastoni will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. He won’t however need to do it singlehandedly with Huijsen next to him to act as cover.

Our fullbacks have license to get forward with Hakimi and Lewis-Skelly offering us some natural width on the flanks and both have superb delivery in the final third as they look to whip balls in from out wide.

Midfield:

Our midfield dup will be key to our success. Caicedo will be our anchor in the middle operating as our DM. A bundle of energy capable of covering every blade of grass he’ll be shielding our defence, breaking up the opposition play, disrupting them AM and cutting out the passing lane to their CF, taking away one of their biggest weapons.

He combines perfectly with the technical brilliance of Bellingham. The youngster is a delightful player, strong defensively whilst also possessing the passing ability to allow us to dictate the tempo of the game. He’ll link perfectly with Paz ahead of him, a combination of master and the apprentice as we look to them dominate the middle of the park.

Caicedo provides the steel whilst Jobe provides the creativity from deep. Together they will protect the defence and get in the face of the opposition. We look to set the tempo and these two will be the catalyst, dispossess the opposition, get the ball to our forwards wreak havoc at the other end.

Forwards:

Our trio of AM’s have the freedom to cause havoc as they see fit. Salah on the right will look to be direct, use his pace and skill to go at his man, with Hakimi in support we will look to overwhelm down the right hand side. Quick one two’s with Wirtz will also open up space on the edge of the box with the Egyptian lethal when presented with half a chance.

On the opposite flank we have Dembele, one of the most in form players in the world he offers a goal threat whenever he’s on the ball. Pace to burn a deadly finisher, the interplay between the 3 AM’s will be a joy to behold as we look to overwhelm the opposition defence in the final third. Go at his man and either look for the slid rule ball into Kane or power home a shot himself.

With a dream supply line around him Kane will be in his element. He’ll play on the last man ready to pounce on a through ball by our AM’s or wingers . A complete forward he offers the dual threat of being deadly in the air and a natural born goalscorer with the ball at his feet.

When on the attack he’ll be looking to do what he does best, get himself in the box and finish any chances that come his way. With the pace and power to overwhelm any CB he’ll thrive off of the service of Paz with the goal threats of Salah and Demble on the flanks likely to give the opposition nightmares.

Subs:

If winning:
70 mins: Bellingham off, Joao Neves on.
80 mins: Salah off, Cherki on.

If drawing/losing:
60 mins: Bellingham off, Wirtz on.
70 mins: Salah & Paz off, Cherki & Ekitike on. 4-1-3-2 with the trio of Cherki, Wirtz, Dembele supporting the front two of Ekitike & Kane. Goals galore.

---------------- Trafford -------------
Hakimi - Huijsen - Bastoni - L.Skelly
---------------- Caicedo -------------
---- Cherki --- F.Wirtz --- Dembele
----------- Ekitike -- Kane -----------

MAN UTD vs brentford

--------------------------------------Maignan--------------------------------
-----------Khusanov------------ Saliba---------Veiga-----------
-----------------------------Lavia---------Bergvall----------------------
Quenda-----------------------------------------------------------Carreras
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------Saka---------------Endrick----------------Gittens---------------

Subs - Garcia, Diomande, Larsson, Palmer, Bobb, Thuram,Tel

CK'S - SAKA
FK'S - SAKA
PENALTIES - ENDRICK

I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.

Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. Khusanov and Veiga will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to stop any attacks that go down their wings using their super human pace and tackling ability. Saliba in the middle will marshall the defence and look to work together with his fellow CB's to stop the oppo attackers. Stay compact and not too far from each other so we can deal with any crosses into the area etc. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.

WINGBACKS
Quenda and Carreras are playing as wingbacks today. They will both have the freedom to bomb up and down their flanks. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM's will be helping you a lot aswell. Khusabov and Veiga will be ready as the outside CB's to help you clear up any loose balls etc. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. One of our DM's will come over to mark the oppo winger who has the ball incase they use the overlapping fullbacks. I want both wingbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..

Centre Mids
Lavis + Bergvall
These 2 will be the main enforcers to protect the defence and to control the central midfield. Both of these have the engine to easily last the 90 minutes. Lavia will be the more defensive of the two. He will help the wingbacks in defending against oppo wingers and will also look to put a lock on the oppo AM to stop him dictating play. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings and try and play some quick one two's as you are a good dribbler and passer. Bergvall will be allowed to stretch his legs and run with the ball from deep if there is space to do so in the centre of the pitch. When out of possession drop deep next to Lavia and try and intercept the ball. Bergvall will look to use his technical ball playing ability to pass the ball forwards and to try and thread dangerous passes to unlock the oppo defence. I want the front three to be on the lookout for his passes. When out of possession drop deep and cover the central midfield space.

Wingers
Saka + Gittens
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Saka will be looking to cut in from the left and Gittens likewise who will cut in from the right. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back into the centre of the pitch to one of our DM's or play quick one two's with our wingbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for Endrick to attack. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack.

Striker
Endrick
Endrick will be leading the line for us today. He has got the pace and strength to play the role and he will have plenty of support in attack. Use your pace to time your runs and to get away from the defenders. Be vary of loose balls in the box so you can use your quick reactions to get to the ball before the oppo defenders.

Subs if LOSING BY 75MINS
Put on Palmer and Tel for Bergvall and Gittens to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.

------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
---------------Khusa-------Saliba------Veiga----------
---------------------------------Lavia--------------------------------------
Quenda-----------------------------------------------------------Carreras
-----------------------------------Palmer-----------------------------------
------------------Saka--------Endrick------Tel--------------

Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Gittens and put on Larsson in CM to offer more defensive protection and energy in the middle. Also put on Palmer for Saka. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack.

-----------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
------------------Khusa-----------Saliba----------Veiga--------
Quenda--------Larsson------Lavia----Bergvall-----Carreras
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------Palmer-----------------------------------
--------------------------------------Endrick-----------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Switch formation to 3412 to confuse the oppo. Bring on Palmer and Thuram for Saka and Gittens.

------------------------------------Maignan-------------------------------
---------------Khusanov-------Saliba--------Veiga------------
-----------------------------Lavia-----Bergvall-----------------------
Quenda----------------------------------------------------------Carreras
---------------------------------------Palmer--------------------------------------
-------------------------Endrick------------Thuram-------------------

*****FA Cup Semi Finals*****

Watford v BRENTFORD

🤕🤧🤒🤢

Ange-Yoan Bonny
Richard Ríos
Mile Svilar
Jonas Urbig


________________🇳🇱Verbruggen
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Lewis_🇳🇱van Hecke_🇳🇱van de Ven_🇳🇱Maatsen
___________🇺🇸Cardoso____🇳🇱de Jong
__________🇭🇺Szoboszlai___🇦🇷Almada
__________🇧🇷João Pedro___🇳🇴Sørloth

Subs
🇫🇷 Lucas Chevalier
🇹🇷 Ferdi Kadıoğlu
🇬🇷 Konstantinos Koulierakis
🇩🇪 Nathaniel Brown
🇩🇰 Morten Hjulmand
🇬🇭 Antoine Semenyo
🇧🇪 Charles De Ketelaere

Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai / Almada
Pens - Sørloth

Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.

What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?

The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.

The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.

The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.

The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.


What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?

The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.

The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.

The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.

The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.

Subs on 67 mins
Kadıoğlu on for Lewis
Brown on for Maatsen

Sub on 78 mins
Semenyo on for João Pedro

Watford: FA Cup vs Brentford
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: Moscardo

Team:
------------------Kelleher
Bradley---Collins--Murillo---Vanderlan
-------------------Moscardo
----------------Jones--White
Guilherme------------------------Henrique
--------------------Castro

SUBS: Santos, Souza, Beraldo, Redondo, Gómez, Domínguez, Igor

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: Kelleher 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: Moscardo 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. Jones and White will play just in front of Moscardo. Jones will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. White 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 Guilherme and Henrique 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 White, Jones and Castro 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 Jones may sit a bit deeper allowing White 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.

Castro 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: Jones, Henrique or Guilherme with Collins, Murillo and Castro to offer an aerial threat. White and Henrique (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Castro

Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Igor for Castro and Domínguez for Guilherme, 2 like for like substitutions.

If losing (on 70 minutes) Domínguez for Jones and Igor for Guilherme. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Igor and Giovani offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.

---------------Moscardo
Domínguez --White--Henrique
---------Castro-Igor

---------------------- 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Trafford -----------------------
🇲🇦 Hakimi -- 🇪🇸 Huijsen -- 🇮🇹 Bastoni - 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 L.Skelly
--------------------- 🇵🇹 João Neves --------------------
--------------- 🇦🇷 Nico Paz -- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz -------------
--- 🇫🇷 R.Cherki -------------------------- 🇳🇱 X.Simons
----------------------- 🇳🇴 Haaland ----------------------

Subs:
Donnarumma, Udogie, Van Dijk, Caicedo, Soule, Ekitike, Kane

We look to have a bit of fun as we go with an attacking 4-3-3.

Built on a solid back 4 we go with a young midfield and attack full of energy as we go in search of goals.

Out of possession we revert to a more traditional 4-3-3.

Trafford
Hakimi Huijsen Bastoni Skelly
Paz Caicedo Wirtz
Cherki Haaland Simons

With Paz & Wirtz dropping in alongside Neves they’ll provide support in behind our wingers. If the opposition get the ball out wide we want our outside CM’s to engage them, working in tandem with our FB’s to win back possession.

This tactic removes the responsibility of Cherki & Simons having to track back, instead with want them to play in the half spaces between their defence and midfield, cutting out the passing lanes from their CB’s to FB’s and forcing the opposition to go long. Increasing the chances of them losing possession and being perfectly placed for us to them hit them on the counter.

Stationed up top on the right Cherki has license to cut inside, when he does Paz will drift to the right opening up space for Cherki in the middle of the field whilst a switch pass back to Paz on the flank allows the youngsters to whip in a delicious ball for Haaland to attack. Similarly Simons has license to do the same on the other flank with Wirtz drifting wide, with the German simply devastating in the final third.

Due to the abundance of attacking quality it's important that have a solid defence and rely on our watertight CB duo of Huijsen and Bastoni, flanked by two flying fullbacks.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Huijsen will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. He won’t however need to do it singlehandedly with the classy Bastoni next to him to act and cover and sweeping up any balls in behind.

Our fullbacks have license to get forward with Hakimi and Lewis-Skelly offering us some natural width on the flanks and both have superb delivery in the final third as they look to whip balls in from out wide for Haaland to attack.

Midfield:

Midfield is where we feel the game can be won. Neves will be our key holding player in the middle operating as a DM. A fantastic reader of the game we want him to sit in front of our defence, breaking up the opposition play and also cutting out the passing lane to their CF, taking away one of their biggest weapons.

In Nico Paz and Flo Wirtz we have exciting young architects in the middle. Twin AM’s they provide a bundle of energy with both capable of cutting through the opposition. Goals, assists these boys can do it all as we give them the freedom to showcase their ability.

They along with Cherki and Simons will be our chief creators, the fab 4 will be looking to pick apart the opposition in the final third. They also possess a great strike from range, if the opposition drop off they have license to go for goal.

Forwards:

We go with a deadly attacking trident up top. Cherki and Simons play as inside forwards, both with great technical quality and an eye for goal.

Cherki on the right will look to be direct, have fun and use his bag of tricks to go at his man in one on one situations. Hakimi will make overlapping runs down the right with Haaland ready to pounce on any balls into the box.

Similarly Simons on the opposite flank will look to pierce through their defence, working in tandem with the advancing Wirtz we look to play quick one two’s in and around the box to open up space to fire off shots.

With a dream supply line around him Haaland will be in his element. He’ll play on the last man ready to pounce on a through ball by our AM’s. A complete forward he offers the dual threat of being deadly in the air and a natural born goalscorer with the ball at his feet.

When on the attack he’ll be looking to do what he does best, get himself in the box and finish any chances that come his way. With the pace and power to overwhelm any CB he’ll thrive off of the service of Cherki, Paz, Wirtz & Simons as we aim to put on a show.

Subs:

If winning:
70 mins: Paz off, Caicedo on. Solidify the midfield.
80 mins: Haaland off, Kane on.
85 mins: Simons off, Udogie on. Extra defensive cover as we go to a back 5 to see out the win.

If drawing/losing:
60 mins: Lewis-Skelly off, Udogie on. More attacking FB.
70 mins: Neves & Paz off, Kane & Caicedo on. 4-1-3-2 with the trio of Cherki, Wirtz, Simons supporting the front two of Haaland & Kane. Goals galore.

---------------- Trafford -------------
Hakimi - Huijsen - Bastoni - Udogie
---------------- Caicedo -------------
---- Cherki --- F.Wirtz --- X.Simons
--------- Haaland -- Kane ----------

Leicester vs City
Fluid 4-3-3 High tempo

We setup to dominate possession and control the game. We look to stretch the game and play with width, the opposition are missing the two players that give them natural width, so we defend narrow and play with width in possession. Stretch the game when we’re on the ball, creating space and helping us dominate possession.

Pace and power to stretch the City defence, a slight tweak to our formation with a double pivot giving us more cover defensively and more control in midfield.

We’ll have width in attack with wingers and from a fb bombing forward, with the double pivot offering more cover.

Three forwards with pace and who can create something from nothing. A fluid front three who will have freedom in attack to drift, and pull players out of position for the other attackers and midfield to expose.

A young midfield trio with a mix of everything. Rodri will dictate the game, a youthful duo next to him with the energy and power of Andrey coupled with the pace and creativity on the ball to find the attackers in space and get forward into dangerous positions themselves,

Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate.

With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Hall,
Foden and Andrey (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully the opposition.

Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through them starting from the back, playing fast flowing football but varying the tempo when we need to slow down and regain control.

We look to play attacking total football, so we play a high line, but slightly more cautious/not as high as normal. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to. We have the pace at the back, and best one on one goalkeeper if it came to if to play this.

———————————————- Alisson
Livramento —— Marquinhos —— Gvardiol —— L.Hall
——————————— Andrey.S —— Rodri
———————————————- Musiala
——— Foden —————————————— Kvaratskhelia —
————————————————- Isak

Subs. Sanchez, Militao, Sarr, Odegaard, Nwaneri, A.Nusa, Delap

Defending high

When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape.

The team narrow to the side of play, we leave two of the front 3 forward, one wide player drops deep on the side City are attacking. The other wide player comes central and looks to simply sit City goal side on their deepest cm, ready to nip in and steal the ball if played to him while also making their cm look over his shoulder and worry he’s not covering. This has the other winger in a deeper position already to get back in if they switch the play.

Marquinhos the man-marker next to Gvardiol who is free to use his intelligence and pace to sweep up. Rodri as dm in position to cover, Andrey ball side of him, and Musiala just ahead of Rodri, closing the passing lanes and in position to press or drop to the opposite if it comes his way.

In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options.

Attack

Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.

We play a fluid front three, who switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This will help the players to get away from their markers, and create space.


Subs.

If winning after 70 mins bring on Nwaneri for Foden. Pace against tired legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Odegaard for Musiala.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Delap for Isak. Fresh pace and power.

If losing or drawing after 66 mins bring on Odegaard and Delap for Andrey and Foden. 4-3-1-2. Kvarat no. 10
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Nwaneri for Musiala. 4-2-2-2

----------------------- 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Trafford -----------------------
🇲🇦 Hakimi -- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk -- 🇪🇸 Huijsen - 🇮🇹 Udogie
--------------------- 🇵🇹 João Neves --------------------
-------------- 🇳🇱 X.Simons -- 🇦🇷 Nico Paz ------------
---- 🇪🇬 M.Salah -------------------------- 🇫🇷 O.Dembele
----------------------- 🇳🇴 Haaland ----------------------

Subs:
Patterson, Bastoni, Caicedo, Baleba, Cherki, Ekitike, Kane

After overcoming powerhouses Chelsea and Leicester en route to the final we look to finish the job with today’s attacking 4-3-3.

Built on a solid back 4 we go with a young midfield and attack full of energy as we go in search of goals.

Out of possession we revert to a more traditional 4-3-3.

Trafford
Hakimi Van Dijk Huijsen Udogie
Simons Neves Simons
Salah Haaland Dembele

With Simons & Paz dropping in alongside Neves they’ll provide support in behind our wingers. If the opposition get the ball out wide we want our outside CM’s to engage them, working in tandem with our FB’s to win back possession.

This tactic removes the responsibility of Salah & Dembele having to track back, instead with want them to play in the half spaces between their defence and midfield, cutting out the passing lanes from their CB’s to FB’s and forcing the opposition to go long. Increasing the chances of them losing possession and being perfectly placed for us to them hit them on the counter.

Due to the abundance of attacking quality it's important that have a solid defence and rely on our watertight CB duo of Van Dijk and Huijsen and flanked by two flying fullbacks.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Van Dijk will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. He won’t however need to do it singlehandedly with the classy Huijsen next to him to act and cover and sweeping up any balls in behind.

Our fullbacks have license to get forward with Hakimi and Udogie offering us some natural width on the flanks and both have superb delivery in the final third as they look to whip balls in from out wide for Haaland to attack.

Midfield:

Midfield is where we feel the game can be won. Neves will be our key holding player in the middle operating as a DM. A fantastic reader of the game we want him to sit in front of our defence, breaking up the opposition play and also cutting out the passing lane to their CF, taking away one of their biggest weapons.

In Xavi Simons and Nico Paz we have exciting young architects in the middle. Twin AM’s they provide a bundle of energy with both capable of cutting through the opposition. Goals, assists these boys can do it all as we give them the freedom to showcase their ability.

They along will be our chief creators as they look to pick apart the opposition in the final third. They also possess a great strike from range, if the opposition drop off they have license to go for goal.

Forwards:

Salah on the right will look to be direct, use his pace and skill to go at his man, with Hakimi in support we will look to overwhelm down the right hand side. Quick one two’s with our AM’s will also open up space on the edge of the box with the Egyptian lethal when presented with half a chance.

On the opposite flank we have Dembele, one of the most in form players in the world he offers a goal threat whenever he’s on the ball. Pace to burn a deadly finisher, the interplay between our attackers will be a joy to behold as we look to overwhelm the opposition defence in the final third. Go at his man and either look for the slid rule ball into Haaland or power home a shot himself.

With a dream supply line around him Haaland will be in his element. He’ll play on the last man ready to pounce on a through ball by our AM’s or wingers . A complete forward he offers the dual threat of being deadly in the air and a natural born goalscorer with the ball at his feet.

When on the attack he’ll be looking to do what he does best, get himself in the box and finish any chances that come his way. With the pace and power to overwhelm any CB he’ll thrive off of the service of Xavi & Paz with the goal threats of Salah and Demble on the flanks likely to give the opposition nightmares.

Subs:

If winning:
65 mins: Paz off, Caicedo on. 4-2-3-1
75 mins: Salah off, Cherki on.
85 mins: Haaland off, Kane on.

If drawing/losing:
60 mins: Paz off, Cherki on.
70 mins: Simons off, Kane on. 4-1-3-2 with the trio of Salah, Cherki, Dembele supporting the front two of Haaland & Kane. Goals galore.

---------------- Trafford -------------
Hakimi - Van Dijk - Huijsen - Udogie
-------------- Joao Neves -------------
-- M.Salah --- R.Cherki --- O.Dembele
---------- Haaland -- Kane -----------

Watford: FA Cup final
Captain: Kelleher
Vice-Captain: Collins

-----------------Kelleher
Bradley---Collins---Murillo--Vanderlan
-----------Evertton--Guerra
--------------------Gómez
Domínguez-----------------------Henrique
--------------------Castro

SUBS: Mamardashvili, Wesley, Beraldo, Redondo, Enciso, Prestianni, Alberto

SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with Evertton as the holding/defensive midfielder who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (Guerra). In front of them Gómez 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’ Guerra will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Gómez 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: Kelleher 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 Evertton as the one holding/defensive midfielder. 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 (Guerra). 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 Gómez 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 Domínguez and Henrique 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 Gómez, Guerra and Castro 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 Guerra may sit a bit deeper allowing Gómez 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.
Castro 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: Gómez, Henrique or Domínguez with Collins, Murillo and Castro to offer an aerial threat. Gómez and Henrique (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 – Beraldo for Collins, Redondo for Evertton and Alberto for Castro.
If losing (60 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Guerra with Alberto and Domínguez with Prestianni. 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.
----------------Evertton
Prestianni---Gómez---Henrique
-------------Alberto--Castro

Europe