Starting Line Up:

---------------------------Friedel--------------------------
-------------------Mirin------------Garay-------------------
Rafael------------------------------------------Cissokho--
---------------------------Capoue--------------------------
--------------Strootman------------Pirlo------------------
Sarabia------------------------------------------Gaitan---
-------------------------Van Persie-------------------------


Subs: Günter, Montolvio, Kagawa, Marin, Drogba

Captain: Pirlo
Vice Captain: Van Persie

Penalties: Pirlo
Freekicks: Van Persie

This week we'll be looking to press the opposition and win the ball back as far up the pitch as we can, in doing so we'll be playing a higher line. We'll look to close their keeper down and not allow him to play it on the deck as he likes too, we'll also pounce on the second balls and not give the defenders any time to play.

When someone has a shot, one of the supporting players will always look for the rebound as Valdes is prone to parrying the ball out.

Brad Friedel gets the nod in goal, he's an experienced keeper who commands his 18 yard box. He'll be very vocal throughout, organising the defence. He'll be looking for shorter balls out so we can build our attacks from the back. Our opponents have a relatively small side height wise, so the American should have no problems claiming the ball.

Garay and Forest loanee, Nicolas Isimat-Mirin will be the center backs, they have the pace to play a high line. Garay will be the one of the two who brings the ball out from defence. He'll look to get the ball to Pirlo, (via Strootman on occasion). Nicolas Isimat-Mirin is tough in the tackle but also has the speed and discipline to play in a high line. With the opposition playing the one up top we'll always have cover in the middle and should be able to freeze him out as we're quicker and stronger.

Rafael and Cissokho, will be operating as our wing backs. They'll be providing the cover down the flanks and the width for our attacks. They'll be looking the get forward and keep the oppositions wide men pegged back in their own half. They'll be looking to slide balls through us so we'll set out to show them outside and force them into crossing the ball in which they'll have difficulty getting anyone on the end of.

Capoue (the destroyer) takes up his place anchoring the midfield, his job will be to sit and mop up. He won't be venturing very far forward, he'll let the others in front of him do the attacking side of things. Pirlo will sit just in front to his left, the play maker, he'll be looking to get the ball from the defence and feed the attack via the wing backs or key passes to RVP.
Strootman will be playing just right of the 3, he'll be the engine, getting up and down the pitch, pressing the oppositions midfielders and not letting them get any sort of rhythm to their game.

Sarabia and Gaitan come back to play out wide / inside forwards. Their work rate will be important, they'll be looking to get the ball back off the opponents as quickly as they can so we can mount attacks closer to their goal. They can both cut inside, or look to one of the wing backs bombing down the flanks.

Van Persie will lead the attack, he's strong and deadly in and around the box, everyone knows what he's capable of, but his intelligence gives him the advantage and makes him pretty hard to stop. We'll be looking to get him on his left foot when we can, but also slide him through as he's more than capable of rounding the keeper.


If winning after 70 minutes:

Montolivo will replace Strootman, dropping in along side Capoue to keep the energy up in the middle of the park. Kagawa will replace Pirlo and sit in front of the two DM's in a bid to keep possession of the football. Marin will come in for Sarabia to keep that pressure up on the opponents and keep them pegged back.

If losing after 70 minutes:

Marin will replace Sarabia, Kagawa for Gaitan and Drogba for Strootman and we'll move to a 4-2-2-2 and go for the jugular.

Raf Gomez Garay Ciss
--------Cap---Pirlo
Marin------------Kagawa
-------Drog--RVP

Aw Loyal where it says Oppositions defence in the Valdes bit of my tactics obversely I meant attack .

--------------------Forster------------------
Zabaleta---Subotic---Hummels--Gibbs
-------------------Tiote---------------------
Cazorla----Cabaye---Sissoko-----Reus
------------------Lukaku-----------------

Subs: Unnerstall, Okore, Atsu, Deulofeu, Guidetti

C: Hummels
Corner L: Cazorla
Corner R: Cazorla
FKs L: Cazorla
FKs R: Cazorla
Pens: Cabaye

Today we’re playing against a very dangerous Boro side who move the ball very well, I want us to play an outstanding team game today, staying very tight together without the ball, and with it playing quick, sharp incisive passing. I want us to play a high line, keeping the space inbetween the defence and midfield to a minimum, with our midfielders pressing quickly, but not diving in, we must not allow them time to pick passes in behind, or take shots from distance, we want to take the ball off them or force them into going home again. When we get the ball we have 4 midfielders capable of moving the ball around well and tiring the Boro team as well. The key today will be knowing when to keep possession and when to hit Boro on the counter. Gibbs, Zab, Reus, Cazorla, Sissoko & Lukaku are all fantastic on the counter, and when we counter I want Cabaye sitting deep holding the midfield and picking the pass to cut open the defence. When keeping the ball I want Cabaye playing a little further forward as his passing is more intricate and he has a great shot on him, with Sissoko playing deeper to protect us from being countered.


Forster: He needs to keep his concentration levels up and play as he is capable of. He’s a fantastic shot stopper, the main things he needs to concentrate on is organising his defence and being
alert all game.

Zabaleta & Gibbs: Both are fantastic one on one defenders but are also very comfortable on the ball. Without possession I always want them goal side of the wingers, hassling them, but not diving in – trying to force them into a backwards pass. When we have the ball I want them both pulling wide and looking to get forward, whether or not they get the ball they will be dragging players out to them and stretching the opposition, giving us more space to do damage in the middle. I also want them making overlapping runs for Cazorla and Reus and looking to get the ball in the box when they get in a good wide position. Between them they will be providing the bulk of the width for todays game, and it’s important that they stay forward as much as possible just because that will stretch the opposition defence, leaving more space for the danger men further forward. Always must be looking across the line to see where the rest of the defence is, vital not to get caught deeper than the rest.

Hummels & Subotic: Hummels is the captain and will be bossing the back line, we have 4 players of great ability in defence and Hummels will be the one to make sure they’re organised and motivated, he will not let anyone get away without doing their job and will keep the defence sharp and focused. The two already have a great understanding and partnership going, I expect this to be key in keeping Boro out, especially as playing a high line we need the line to be perfect as one defender sitting deep will allow them in with a clever pass.

Tiote: Tiote will be the anchorman, as a footballer he doesn’t have as much ability as much as our other midfielders, but his job will be just as important as anyone elses. I primarily want him sitting in front of the back four, sweep across sideways rather than going back and forwards. Using his strength and physicality to pressure the opposition into mistakes and not allow them any time on the ball. I also want him covering for the fullbacks so we don’t get caught on the break, I want the fullbacks pushing on a lot to provide width for us, so it’s vital he keeps an eye on them. When he gets the ball I just want him keeping it simple, playing the way he’s facing to get the ball to our better players, then getting straight back into position.

Sissoko: Today Sissoko will start by playing right alongside Cabaye. While Tiote will be doing a lot of running and hassling I want Sissoko all over the place, he has the ability to drive from deep and make things happen, but he is equally capable of playing short intricate passing. I want him to help Cabaye control the tempo of the game and I want to see him raising the tempo quickly and unexpectedly to cause problems for the Boro midfield, who won’t be able to cope with his size and speed. While we want to score goals it’s important we make ourselves hard to break down and don’t give away any cheap or early goals, so Sissoko’s role is vital.

Cabaye: Today Cabaye will be the key man in our midfield, he can match it with Boro in terms of passing and controlling a game, but he can also hassle and press when needed, as well as bring a great goal out the bag. I want him to control the game, but if we get caught without the ball then he has the ability to pick a killer pass on the counter and we will have the players making the runs for him. He is also brilliant at timing late runs into the box and I’d like to see him doing this when he has an opportunity, but be smart about it and not try and do it too often, only when the perfect situation arises.

The 3 of them HAVE to be aware of the full backs pushing forward and defending for the counter attacks. I want Tiote to be the one to fill in for a FB with Sissoko & Cabaye holding the space in front of the back 4 still.

Cazorla & Reus: Today these two will be playing as more traditional wingers, I want to see them swapping wings and making clever runs, but essentially Lukaku will be the main man through the middle, so I only want them venturing inside if he has dragged players out wide. Obviously if they’re cutting in on their stronger foot that is not a bad thing either and I want to see them shooting, as both are capable of scoring great goals. I expect them to be on the ball a lot, controlling the game. I want them to keep the passing very short and sharp, being patient and waiting for an opportunity to make itself known. If they keep playing like this and involve Cabaye and Lukaku in it then they will create plenty of gaps in the opposition defence that they’ll be able to expose, they should also create plenty of space for Zab & Gibbs who will always be offering wide.
Generally I want to see them cutting in from the wing and having a shot, as they’re all so dangerous when they do, but with Zabaleta and Gibbs offering an overlapping run I want them to be aware of this option, and whenever one has the ball on their side, I want the other two attacking the area, flooding the opposition defence and giving them a lot of headaches.


Lukaku: Today I want him getting involved quite a lot in the all round play, if he drops a little deep to play a quick give and go with a midfielder it will drag a defender with him, which will create space in behind for Cazorla & Reus to exploit. I want to see the CBs not knowing who is going to drop with him, or whether the MF should be picking him up, I want his movement to confuse them. Ultimately when we get the ball in the most dangerous positions I want him making little runs across the defenders for crosses, or off their shoulder for through balls. His finishing might not be the best but his sheer size and power should be enough to give the opposition CBs a nightmare of a game which means he will get plenty of chances and eventually a few will go in. I feel he’s good enough to hold up the play to bring others in, good enough to work off the shoulder of the last man and to score from crosses into the box from the FBs, too.

Another important thing is for him to use his strength size and pace to really take advantage should Vertonghen step into the midfield, but he will also need to put in a big shift and be really to hassle Vertonghen in the midfield, so he doesn’t have too much time to start attacks and drive forward, leaving us outnumbered.

Subs:

If winning around 65 mins:

Deulofeu for Reus, just to hold the midfield better and fresh legs to keep us in control of the game, I want him to do what he does best and keep the ball moving, tiring the opposition.
Atsu for Sissoko, fresh legs to offer a pacey direct threat against a tiring defence who have been chasing shadows all game.

------------------Tiote---------
Atsu----Cazorla-----Cabaye--Deulofeu

85th Min – Guidetti for Lukaku, straight swap.



If losing/drawing around 70 mins.
----Subotic—Hummels—Zabaleta----
---------Cabaye-----Sissoko------------
Atsu-----------Cazorla --------Deulofeu
--------Guidetti-------Lukaku---------

Atsu for Reus
Guidetti for Gibbs
Deulofeu for Tiote

Dagenham and Redbridge

---------------------------------Koen Casteels--------------------
----Howedes------Bonucci-------Papadopoulos-------Schmelzer
------------------Gundogan---------Lars Bender--
--------------------------------Juan Mata-------------
-----------Mario Gotze-----------------------El Shaarawy
-----------------------------Mario Balotelli--------------

Subs: Luis Muriel, Shaqiri, Heung-min Son, De Bruyne, Digne

Corners: Mata
Freekicks: Gotze
Penalties: Gotze
Captain: Howedes

Gameplan: In this 4-3-3 formation, we will be playing Mario Gotze and El Shaarawy out wide, in the basis that they take full advantage of 2 attacking Opposition Full Backs. Also, we will be instructing Mario Gotze and El Shaarawy to come inside, so they become a handful for the opposition DM and CBs. They are both very good at shooting, so they shouldn’t mind having a pop at goal, as both are in fine form this season. We will look to Juan Mata to destroy the opposition DM and really be a main threat from AM. Gundogan will be behind him, but equally important, bombing up when he can, but sitting back and playing the passing role to ease off pressure. Juan Mata will need to get those rocket-powered shots in at the opposition’s goal, as has a real hammer strike on him that he needs to release on goal. He will work his magic in his best position, and really support Mario Balotelli. He will use his brilliant vision to thread through balls into the attackers and try to get round a good defence. Lars Bender has been amazing for Leverksen this season, breaking into Germanys starting 11, and has to make sure the opposition AM is given no space or time on the ball. He will keep the AM out of the game and intercept anything that comes to him. He will be breaking down play and keeping the ball as well as passing, are his best traits, so he will look to prevent any attack coming in at him, and release the ball quickly when in possession. Papadopoulos and Bonucci are 2 top CBs, and both have to remain solid up against a very good striker/s, they have to make sure they don’t give away penalties/Freekicks and have to win every aerial duel and 50-50 fairly, whilst marking their men closely and tightly and cutting off runs made by the strikers. They will not make any sloppy mistakes, and remain focused. They won’t give short back passes to the GK, or play risky passes. They have to keep everything simple. We will not be beaten down the wings either, as Howedes has been terrific at RB this season. He should look to cut off opposition runs, and when he attacks, he should offer real width to Mario Gotze, and double up on the opposition LB. Schmelzer will not leave gaps behind and always track back, and will look at them to really test the opposition full backs, with their excellent runs and their fantastic crosses troubling the defence, finding Mario Balotelli, Mario Gotze and El Shaarawy. Mario Balotelli will be the one who has to make runs on to every pass threaded through to him, and will be a huge threat from crosses, from the likes of Schmelzer and Howedes. Juan Mata will go up to support him, so he will not be isolated, and will use immense finishing talent to get the goals for us.

FULLBACKS: Howedes and Schmelzer are both good defensively as fullbacks, but will be instructed strictly to always track back, and to never ever leave space once we lose the ball. However, when they attack, they should look to whip the ball into Mario Balotelli, El Shaarawy and Mario Gotze, who are all dangerous in the box. Or they should come in and interact with Juan Mata or Gundogan/Bender to keep the ball. They should look to attack the opposition fullbacks every time, and take advantage of any space left from them.

CENTRE BACKS: Bonucci and Papadopoulos partner each other, and they are two, class defenders that complement each other very well. They are both good in the air, quick, and very good in the tackle, which could see us keep a clean sheet. They will be up against a powerful striker, and they will have to make sure he doesn’t get the space to turn, or head the ball in. Bonucci goes for the aerial ball, up against a good quick striker, has to win every 50-50. Papadopoulos clears up everything on deck, and also has to be aware of the ST at all times, matching his movement, and instructing the defence well.

AM : Juan Mata will be playing the AM role today. His job is crucial to the team, as they will sit just in front of the DM, and will look to get the ball up to Mario Balotelli. Juan Mata will create that extra magic that is needed to unlock defences, whilst Gundogan will sit back, just behind him, ready to help out. He will be crucial in our Counter-attacking game, as he will be the ones to supply the striker, and deliver those long, lung-busting runs across the pitch. Juan Mata will link up the play from Midfield to attack, being an enormous threat from long shots and his movement will cause plenty of problems for the opposition DM as they will have a top class AMs all over them, pressing them back towards their own defence.

DM + CM: Lars Bender will be guarding the back four and prevent the opponent from counter attacking, whilst dictating from deep and getting through balls into the forwards. He will break play up, and prevent any attack from happening. He will be a rock in the centre of Midfield and will control the game. He will not allow the Opposing AM/CM Any time on the ball at all. Him and Gundogan are both great passers of the ball, and look to get the ball through to El Shaarawy, Mario Gotze and Juan Mata, or look to Juan Mata to release those beautiful cross field passes onto the head or feet of Mario Balotelli. Bender should be able to deal with any AM in the League, such is his class, whilst also being quick to cover down any spaces left by our attacking Full-backs, which would prevent any sudden Counter-attacking movement down the wings, and it would also free up loads of space for Juan Mata, who would either float those wonder balls into Mario Balotelli, or those sly through balls into the Path of Juan Mata or Mario Gotzei. Alongisde Lars Bender, Gundogan will be the dictator of the game. He will read the game brilliantly, and use his superb vision to spot runs coming in off the wings. Gundogan will use his brilliant feet and quick thinking, to get out of dangerous situations, and find a teammate, when being pressurized, and will also look to play in our wingers. He will often go up to support Juan Mata, ready to recycle the ball when it comes back to him.

ST: Mario Balotelli is the ST for this game, and he has shown just how good he is numerous times with Milan this season, especially if he gets service, which would be no problem having Mario Gotze, El Shaarawy and Juan Mata’s backing, Gundogan’s brilliant vision, Howedes and Schmelzer’s whipped in ball’s from the wings, and with El Shaarawy and Mario Gotze by his side, he will get plenty of chances and ways to score. He will rely on his extreme Pace, positioning, Technical ability and Finishing Prowess and look to crumble any defence he comes up against, with his brilliant knack of finding the back of the net. El Shaarawy will play LF and he will look to take on and beat the Opposition RB at every opportunity, and take full advantage of any space left by the RB. Having Schmelzer by his side when we attack would really help, as he will have some backing down the right flank. El Shaarawy will use his immense dribbling skills and pace to cut into the box and look to find a shot/Teammate to try and work a goalscoring opportunity. He will link up with Mario Balotelli and the 2 of them should be too much for the defence. Mario Balotelli’s best attribute is his finishing, and any chance that falls his way must be finished off. Mario Gotze will be on the RF, and he is known for cutting inside, making intelligent runs, and getting into goalscoring positions. He will link up with Mario Balotelli and El Shaarawy, causing problems down the Left Flank. He should cut in, and look to confuse the opposition, and link up with the midfield. Once he gets an opportunity to shoot, he should not be afraid of having a shot, as his extremely powerful strikes can prove to be too much for the opposition GK. Mario Gotze has a powerful run, and he should look to power his way into the box to try and set someone up. He should also look to get on the end of high/deep crosses from Howedes/Schmelzer/El Shaarawy, and knock the ball down to advancing teammate

Subs:

60mins: Kevin De Bruyne > Bender, straight swap
60mins: Shaqiri > Gotze, Straight swap
75mins: Luis Muriel > Balotelli, straight swap

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

Adler
Rafinha Mbiwa Burdisso Balzaretti
Veloso Wilshere
Chamberlain Jelavic Ince
Huntelaar

Subs – Diawara for Veloso – 5-4-1 formation change 80’

Game Plan – This game is a game we want to win and though it appears we’re playing defensive, we aren’t. I want us to attack them with everything we’ve got. We will be working together to earn this win so I want all our players to stick to their position but also keep in space. This will mean they will be an option for any player that has the ball. I want our football to flow with a direct passing style. I want us to also use the flanks as much as possible as I think this is where we’ll be more effective.

Positional Tactics:

Adler should keep in his goal controlling his defenders to keep to their positions. He must use his strength to beat everyone to the ball. Communicate constantly with the defence to prevent confusion and mistakes.

Rafinha should play as a full back. This means when we have the ball he should keep back. He should stay back but if the winger is struggling then he can help out. I want him to bring the other defenders towards him in order to open up space for Chamberlain to take advantage of. While defending Rafinha should try and push the player back. This means it gives our players the chance to get into their positions and also limiting any attacking options for them. If he can’t do that he should push him out wide to a position where he has to kick the ball off. This is because running into the box would be dangerous for us to handle so this will be prevented. Balzaretti should also act as a full back however because they will be dangerous on the counter we need to look to keep some players back we can prevent goals from occurring. However I would like him to go up every now and then if my attackers do need the help. He should also look to keep the attackers back or push them out wide. When we have a free kick or corner our full backs should stay back in case of a counter attack.

Mbiwa should use his height and strength to keep the striker(s) out of the game. I want him to keep with that attacker at all times not allowing him to break up space. If he tries to move Mbiwa away and allow space to occur then he should temporarily leave him and try and trap him offside. He should try and header every ball out of the box or kick it away. When he does kick it away he should kick it towards the wings so that we can create a counter attack. He should stay back when we’re attacking unless we have a corner or free kick. Burdisso should use his experience and strength to keep potential runners into the box out. We do not want any space opened up. He should look to keep command of the defensive line making sure it’s not too high but not too deep.

Veloso will act as a wall in front of the defence. He should look to disrupt their attacking play and be in the oppositions face, and watch the advances of their playmaker who will break from midfield and make runs into the box. Veloso has the power to cope with the strength of their playmaker and also the pace to follow the runs made by him. He will break late and Veloso should watch the runs into the box and look to cope with the balls put into the box which are heading for this player. He should not break forward but hold his position and not get caught up field. I want him to control the style of the game we play. While acting as cover for our defence he should also separate the midfield from the defence by keeping hold of the ball and form attacks.

Wilshere will be our box-box midfielder. This means he will be linking our defence with our attack. He should take hold of the ball and then make runs forward and then supplying it to any of the front 4 ahead. When we’re attacking I want him to move up and stay in space. This will mean he will be an option for the others to pass to. He should also look to open up space for the other attacking players. When off the ball he should be a ball winning player by standing in front of their players and also covering up any spaces.

I want Chamberlain to use his skill to keep the ball and then try and make runs into the box. This will cause the defender to follow him and opening up space for the full back to run into. He must use his pace to outrun the full back but also his quality control of the ball to dribble round him. He will use the full back when the space has opened up. If that doesn’t work then he should bring the full back to him and then use some help. When we’re off the ball I want him to make runs back to help protect the defence by helping Rafinha cover their full back. They should both pressurise him to make a mistake or remove the ball from that area. Chamberlain should also be cautious of the other midfielders. When defending a corner he should stay just outside the box so that he can start a counter attack when or if we win the ball back. I would like Ince to do the same as the ox in this case.

Jelavic should use his pace and strength to make runs into the box and opening up space for Huntelaar. It should do the same for the wingers as well. He will look to supply the ball to the wingers as well. He must make runs all around the front of the defence going right, left and centre. This will create himself as an added option for his wingers and also open up space for the other central players to run into. This will also cause his defensive midfielder to move out of position and allow our wingers to use that space by running into the centre or the other 2 central midfielders to run into.

I would like Chamberlain and Ince to intersect and change positions every now and then to cause their defenders to move out of position and open up space. This will also force them to constantly adapt to changing their defensive style.

Huntelaar must use his pace and skill to open up spaces for the wingers and central players to run into. He should make runs to the wing forcing the centre backs out wide. Therefore players like Wilshere and Jelavic and the wingers can cut into the centre and take chances by themselves. He should look to overpower their defenders with his pace and strength and height. He should constantly look to move into space to create himself as an option for the defence. He should also try and assist others in attacks. When we’re defending he should mark the player at the edge of the box. When we win the ball back he can run up to keep himself an option on the counter.

Captain: Wilshere
Vice Captain: Huntelaar
Penalties: Wilshere
Free Kicks: Wilshere
Corners: Wilshere

This Is our Derby… we hate LSTD and we will win if we win I will take us on a round the world booze cruise at the end of the season even you coco


----------------------------Miglonet----------------------------------Montoya ------ Boeting ------- Coloccini ------- Alba ----
-------------Fofana ----- Fellaini ------- Verratti-------------
Holtby -------------------------------------------------- Chadli
----------------------------- Klose---------------------------------

SUBS
Facundo Roncaglia (CB Cover)
Chalobah (if winning 88 mins > Fellaini)
Stirling (WG cover)
Ben Yedder (If losing 70 mins > Fofana) 4-4-2 with Fellani and Verratti CM




( C ) = Coco the clown
Free kicks – Holtby
Pennys – Klose



Mig – as a goal keeper I expect you to be loud and boss you area. I expect you to do the easy stuff right and keep concentration and allow your god given talent to make the big saves when/if needed. You have an experienced back 4 ahead of you so it should be easy.

Boeting and Coco – you’re experienced CB’s who are physically strong and great in the air. I expect neither of you to lose a header tonight and I want to see you stop the striker. Cover for each other and don’t be too silly on the ball just get rid. Though if you have time and space look to play the ball out from the back,

Barca Boys – Harrogate is the new barca I want you covering the winger and stopping crosses. I want to see you be available for the CB’s to pass (only should they pass to you if they are not under pressure.) When you have the ball look for a pass. Link up well with the winger and run to make the overlap. Attack the bi line or cut inside and don’t be afraid to take on you man.

Fofana and Verratti – you are the controllers, the hub of the team and I have faith in both of you. Look to get the ball from the back 4 and play it out wide or forward. Link with everyone around you and find the killer pass. Do not be overrun in midfield and make the enforcing tackles. Both of you are playing for top European teams and are more than good enough.

Fellaini – dominate the midfield attack with the ball to feet and attack the ball in the air. No defense can handle you so play like you have for me and Everton in the past. Link up with the loan striker, wingers and the CM and draw the defense out to create space for other… if you want to take them on and shoot too. Also make yourself a target from set pieces. attack from CM and become the enforcer and make sure we win the midfield.

Wingers – attack the man and get crosses in for Robert or Fellaini to head, cut inside and shoot yourself or play early into feet. Make sure your looking for the overlap and when it happens covering the wings for counter attacks.

Klose – Lone striker with plenty of help, look for the ball to feet and taking on defense, Make a nuisance of yourself and draw defenders to create space for the big man or get your head on crosses. Hold the ball up or shoot and score it doesn’t matter. Just make sure you are never isolated and if you are drop deeper to collect the ball and look to pass to the on rushing attackers.

Shrewsbury Town

------------------------------Schwarzer-----------------------
---------Debuchy------Evans----------Varane-------Pieters-
-----------------------Carrick----------Lampard---------------
-----------Tadic---------------Sigurdsson-----------Draxler---
-------------------------------J Hernandez----------------------

Subs:

Ali Ahamada
John Stones
Daley Blind
Roman Neustadter
Jody Lukoki
Kelvin
Antonio Di Natale

The essence of this new-look Shrewsbury is quick, direct football. We have the strength in defence to deal with the attacks of of the opposisiton, and will be sitting with a relatively deep defensive line due to the pace they possess, and when on the ball looking to play it forward in a direct manner towards those in space. This is not necessarily 'long ball' tactics, but rather running at their defense and looking to constantly move the ball forward, as opposed to retaining possession.

Schwarzer is an experienced goalkeeper, who makes very few mistakes and he will be looking to exert this as confidence upon the defence. He will organise the backline, claim any balls into the box and seek to get us moving quickly with quick distribution either to the centre of the park or out to our full backs.

Their squad is all about a) Pace and b) the ability to keep hold of the ball. Therefore, our defence will hold a deep line and make it very difficult for their possession to mean anything. As a whole, the full backs will track the runs of their winger by standing off them and tracking their movement, whilst Evans will have the role of keeping tight to the main man as Varane uses his strength and mobility to deal with any crosses into the box and pick up any extra runners. The experience we possess here, with all being proven players means that we should be able to deal with any situations. In order to provide width down the right hand side, Debuchy will look to get past Tadic on the overlap when we attack whilst Pieters will remain defensive at all times.

Due to the likelihood of Forest playing three central players in midfield, who like to keep hold of the ball with great regularity, we have chosen to do the same. Carrick is our deep-lying play maker, and he has the ability to ping the ball about from anywhere on the park. He will spread the play, as if a quaterback in American football, firing the ball outwide, to feed our wingers or to any incisive runs by Lampard/Hernandez. Lampard, will do similar however he will also have the role of breaking from deep. This is what he does best in an attacking sense, and having adjusted to a deeper role in recent years, is now lethal in such situations. This will get them on the back foot and ensure that space is created for himself and others. Therefore, this midfield has been designed with high levels of pressing and has the capabilities of breaking up the play before getting forwards incisively ourselves.

Draxler has an abundance of pace and skill, and will be looking to make a mockery of the defensively falliable full back. He will run, hard and fast, and be looking to put balls into the box for Hernandez to get on the end of. He is a frightening player, and one that will ensure Forest can not be too adventurous in their play. Tadic will play likewise on the right-wing, however he will also be playing as an inside-forward seeking to target the gap between the LB & CB This pace and trickery will allow Tadic to cut in on his favoured foot and either trouble with mid-range shots, feed in Debuchy on the overlap or play the ball in for Hernandez. Sigurdsson has a free role and will act as playmaker.

Hernandez is a wily fox-in-the-box. He knows his job inside out, and is on a good run of form. Leading from the front, he can snuff out a goal from anywhere and the direct form of football we have created which will result in the ball ending up in the box in dangerous situations suits his poacher mentality perfectly.

Subs:

Di Natale > Hernandez - 75 mins

Dagenham & Redbridge U21 Tactics:

-------------------------------------Branescu-----------------------
--McLaughlin---Ibrahima M'Baye--Kolasinac----Digne
---------------Marco Benassi------Saul Niguez-----------
---Marko Livaja----------Wilfried Zaha----------Max Meyer
------------------------------Mauro Icardi-------------

Subs: Holzhauser, Rabiot, Gnabry, Maupay, Heintz

McLaughlin-Rampage down the right with his brilliant attacking quality, but track back to prevent runs. Must whip crosses in to the feet of attackers

Mbaye & Kolasinac-Must stay strong, win everything in the air, put body on the line, and be a rock in defence. Mbaye comes up for corners

Lucas Digne-Do what hes done at Lille, defend brilliantly, whilst also coming inside to join up with attack

Benassi & Saul-Benassi more defensive, make himself a strong and physical presence, keeping the ball rolling and shooting from long range. Saul must link up the midfield to attack, and gives us that flair which can control a game.

Livaja-The young Inter star should look to break into the opposition box using a wide range of skills, and use his brilliant feet to jiggle away from tackles. Must link up well with Zaha to cause a devastating partnership.

Wilfrid Zaha-The main player. He will be much better in the center, and must look to get brilliant sly passes into the feet of Icardi. He will look to run up and support Icardi, but also use his fantastic vision to send in through balls out wide. He has brilliant dribbling skills so will always escape attention of his man

Max Meyer-Must cut in at all times and use his frightening pace and power to cause the RB problems. Must come in to support IIcardi, and get his brilliant shots on target

Mauro Icardi-The man who has been doing brilliant this season, will play in the ST role. He will look to latch onto any ball, and use his magic to work the ball into an area where it will be the most dangerous. His brilliant runs will tire the opposition, and his finishing can be top class when given the opportunity.

Subs:

60mins: Holzhauser > Saul, brilliant Stuttgart starter will control midfield, more dominant and flexibl;e than Saul

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

WEEK SIX TACTICS START FROM THIS POINT.

Crawley Team:

-------------------Reina-----------------------

Arbeloa----Puyol----Dominguez---Aurtenetxe

----------Iturraspe-----Alonso------------------

Navas-----------de Marcos----------Muniain

---------------------Villa-------------------------

Subs:
Amorebieta, Herrera, Tello, Cuenca, Adrian

Set pieces:
Freekicks long: Alonso
Freekicks short: Navas
Pens: Villa
Captain: Puyol

Tactics:

Game plan:
In this game we plan to sit back and shook up as much pressure and hit the opposition on the counter-attack.

Jobs:

Reina:

Reina is to make himself big and strong in the air and names to be big and strong in his one on one's with the opposition players. He also needs to command his area. We also need him to get rid of the ball out of the box and throw the ball out to our full backs and set our breaks off.

Arbeloa and Aurtenetxe:

Both are to be big and strong in their tackles. Their both need to be displined this week and not allow the oppositions wingers and full backs to get crosses into the box. We however, don't want them to get to close to our CB's as we don't want to be exposed in that area. When receiving the ball both need to get it up field to our wingers quickly.

Dominguez and Puyol:

Dominguez will listen to instructions given by Puyol. Both need to be big and strong in their tackles and need to be big and strong in the air. Both need to get the ball and play it down field quickly for our striker. Both also need to get rid of the ball when it comes into the area and also need to command the area around them.

Alonso and Iturraspe:

Both are to sit back and protect our defense from the oppositions midfield getting in and around our penalty box. Both need to be big and strong in their tackles making sure not to give away silly freekicks. We also want Alonso to spray crosses out left, right and centre to set off our attacks.

de Marcos:

He is to receive the ball from Alonso and break down the field with pace and support Villa when going on the attack. He can have a shot on goal outside the box and when the wingers go on the break he needs to get into the box and get on the end of crosses.

Muniain and Navas:

Both are to receive the ball from our full backs and break down their wings with pace and suppily crosses into the box for Villa and the on running de Marcos. Both also need to help out defensively this week by covering our full backs from the opposition on slaught of attacks out wide and stop crosses going into the area.

Villa:

He is to break at the opposition's CB's and pull them out of position and make room for our wingers and de Marcos to break and attack the oppositions defence. Villa also needs to get into the box when crosses come in from out wide making sure he gets on the end of everything coming into the box.

Subs for any outcome:

Herrera on for de Marcos - 70 mins - like for like to get fresh legs on to the pitch.

Tello on for Navas - 75 mins - like for like to get fresh legs on to the pitch.

Adrian on for Villa - 80 mins - like for like to have fresh legs on the pitch.

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Dagenham:

---------------------------------Peter Gulacsi--------------------
----Pisczceck-------Howedes--------Papadopoulos-------Schmelzer
------------------Ilkay Gundogan---------Sami Khedira--
------Juan Mata-------------Mario Gotze-------------El Shaarawy
--------------------------------Mario Balotelli---------------------

Subs: Luis Muriel, Xherdan Shaqiri, Bonucci, De Bruyne, Carvajal

Corners: Mata
Freekicks: Schmelzer
Penalties: Balotelli
Captain: Howedes

Gameplan: In this 4-2-3-1 formation, we will be playing Juan Mata and El Shaarawy out wide, in the basis that they take full advantage of 2 attacking Opposition Full Backs. Also, we will be instructing Juan Mata and El Shaarawy to come inside, so they become a handful for the opposition DM and CBs. They are both very good at shooting, so they shouldn’t mind having a pop at goal, as both are in fine form this season. We will look to Mario Gotze to destroy the opposition DM and really be a main threat from AM. Gundogan will be behind him, but equally important, bombing up when he can, but sitting back and playing the passing role to ease off pressure. Mario Gotze will need to get those rocket-powered shots in at the opposition’s goal, as has a real hammer strike on him that he needs to release on goal. He will work his magic in his best position, and really support Mario Balotelli. He will use his brilliant vision to thread through balls into the attackers and try to get round a good defence. Sami Khedira is a world class DM and has to make sure the opposition AM is given no space or time on the ball. He will keep the AM out of the game and intercept anything that comes to him. He will be breaking down play and keeping the ball as well as passing, are his best traits, so he will look to prevent any attack coming in at him, and release the ball quickly when in possession. Papadopoulos and Bonucci are 2 top CBs, and both have to remain solid up against a very good striker/s, they have to make sure they don’t give away penalties/Freekicks and have to win every aerial duel and 50-50 fairly, whilst marking their men closely and tightly and cutting off runs made by the strikers. They will not make any sloppy mistakes, and remain focused. They won’t give short back passes to the GK, or play risky passes. They have to keep everything simple. We will not be beaten down the wings either, as Pisczceck has been terrific at RB this season. He should look to cut off opposition runs, and when he attacks, he should offer real width to Juan Mata, and double up on the opposition LB. Schmelzer will not leave gaps behind and always track back, and will look at them to really test the opposition full backs, with their excellent runs and their fantastic crosses troubling the defence, finding Mario Balotelli, Juan Mata and El Shaarawy. Mario Balotelli will be the one who has to make runs on to every pass threaded through to him, and will be a huge threat from crosses, from the likes of Schmelzer and Pisczceck. Mario Gotze will go up to support him, so he will not be isolated, and will use immense finishing talent to get the goals for us.

FULLBACKS: Pisczceck and Schmelzer are both good defensively as fullbacks, but will be instructed strictly to always track back, and to never ever leave space once we lose the ball. However, when they attack, they should look to whip the ball into Mario Balotelli, El Shaarawy and Juan Mata, who are all dangerous in the box. Or they should come in and interact with Gotze or Gundogan/Khedira to keep the ball. They should look to attack the opposition fullbacks every time, and take advantage of any space left from them.

CENTRE BACKS: Howedes and Papadopoulos partner each other, and they are two, class defenders that complement each other very well. They are both good in the air, quick, and very good in the tackle, which could see us keep a clean sheet. They will be up against a powerful striker, and they will have to make sure he doesn’t get the space to turn, or head the ball in. Howedes goes for the aerial ball, up against a good quick striker, has to win every 50-50. Papadopoulos clears up everything on deck, and also has to be aware of the ST at all times, matching his movement, and instructing the defence well.

AM : Mario Gotze will be playing the AM role today. His job is crucial to the team, as they will sit just in front of the DM, and will look to get the ball up to Mario Balotelli. Gotze will create that extra magic that is needed to unlock defences, whilst Gundogan will sit back, just behind him, ready to help out. He will be crucial in our Counter-attacking game, as he will be the ones to supply the striker, and deliver those long, lung-busting runs across the pitch. Gotze will link up the play from Midfield to attack, being an enormous threat from long shots and his movement will cause plenty of problems for the opposition DM as they will have a top class AMs all over them, pressing them back towards their own defence.

DM + CM: Sami Khedira will be guarding the back four and prevent the opponent from counter attacking, whilst dictating from deep and getting through balls into the forwards. He will break play up, and prevent any attack from happening. He will be a rock in the centre of Midfield and will control the game. He will not allow the Opposing AM/CM Any time on the ball at all. Him and Gundogan are both great passers of the ball, and look to get the ball through to El Shaarawy, Juan Mata and Gotze, or look to Gotze to release those beautiful cross field passes onto the head or feet of Mario Balotelli. Khedirashould be able to deal with any AM in the League, such is his class, whilst also being quick to cover down any spaces left by our attacking Full-backs, which would prevent any sudden Counter-attacking movement down the wings, and it would also free up loads of space for Gotze, who would either float those wonder balls into Mario Balotelli, or those sly through balls into the Path of Gotze or Juan Mata. Alongisde Sami Khedira, Gundogan will be the dictator of the game. He will read the game brilliantly, and use his superb vision to spot runs coming in off the wings. Gundogan will use his brilliant feet and quick thinking, to get out of dangerous situations, and find a teammate, when being pressurized, and will also look to play in our wingers. He will often go up to support Gotze, ready to recycle the ball when it comes back to him.

ST: Mario Balotelli is the ST for this game, and he has shown just how good he is numerous times with Milan this season, especially if he gets service, which would be no problem having Juan Mata, El Shaarawy and Gotze’s backing, Gundogan’s brilliant vision, Pisczceck and Schmelzer’s whipped in ball’s from the wings, and with El Shaarawy and Juan Mata by his side, he will get plenty of chances and ways to score. He will rely on his extreme Pace, positioning, Technical ability and Finishing Prowess and look to crumble any defence he comes up against, with his brilliant knack of finding the back of the net. El Shaarawy will play LW and he will look to take on and beat the Opposition RB at every opportunity, and take full advantage of any space left by the RB. Having Schmelzer by his side when we attack would really help, as he will have some backing down the right flank. El Shaarawy will use his immense dribbling skills and pace to cut into the box and look to find a shot/Teammate to try and work a goalscoring opportunity. He will link up with Mario Balotelli and the 2 of them should be too much for the defence. Mario Balotelli’s best attribute is his finishing, and any chance that falls his way must be finished off. Juan Mata will be on the RW, and he is known for cutting inside, making intelligent runs, and getting into goalscoring positions. He will link up with Mario Balotelli and El Shaarawy, causing problems down the Left Flank. He should cut in, and look to confuse the opposition, and link up with the midfield. Once he gets an opportunity to shoot, he should not be afraid of having a shot, as his extremely powerful strikes can prove to be too much for the opposition GK. Juan Mata has a powerful run, and he should look to power his way into the box to try and set someone up. He should also look to get on the end of high/deep crosses from Pisczceck/Schmelzer/El Shaarawy, and knock the ball down to advancing teammate

Subs:

If Winning on 60mins:

Shaqiri > Gotze, Shaqiri RW, Mata AM

On 75mins:

Luis Muriel > El Shaarawy, 4-2-2-2

--------------Khedira------Gundogan
------Shaqiri------------------------Juan Mata
---------------Luis Muriel--Balotelli


If Losing at 60mins:

Luis Muriel > Sami Khedira
De Bruyne > Gundogan


---------------------------------Peter Gulacsi--------------------
----Pisczceck-------Howedes--------Papadopoulos-------Schmelzer
-------------------------------Kevin De Bruyne
------Juan Mata-------------Mario Gotze-------------El Shaarawy
---------------Mario Balotelli--------Luis Muriel

------------------------------Schwarzer-----------------------
---------Debuchy------Evans------Varane-------Pieters-
-----------------------Lampard----------Neustadter---------
-----------Tadic---------------Sigurdsson-----------Draxler-
-------------------------------J Hernandez----------------------

Subs:

Ali Ahamada
John Stones
Daley Blind
Steeve Yago
Jan Kirchhoff
Kelvin
Antonio Di Natale

The essence of this new-look Shrewsbury is quick, direct football. We have the strength in defence to deal with the attacks of of the opposisiton, and will be sitting with a relatively deep defensive line due to the pace they possess, and when on the ball looking to play it forward in a direct manner towards those in space. This is not necessarily 'long ball' tactics, but rather running at their defense and looking to constantly move the ball forward, as opposed to retaining possession.

Schwarzer is an experienced goalkeeper, who makes very few mistakes and he will be looking to exert this as confidence upon the defence. He will organise the backline, claim any balls into the box and seek to get us moving quickly with quick distribution either to the centre of the park or out to our full backs.

Their squad is all about a) Pace and b) the ability to keep hold of the ball. Therefore, our defence will hold a deep line and make it very difficult for their possession to mean anything. As a whole, the full backs will track the runs of their winger by standing off them and tracking their movement, whilst Evans will have the role of keeping tight to the main man as Varane uses his strength and mobility to deal with any crosses into the box and pick up any extra runners. The experience we possess here, with all being proven players means that we should be able to deal with any situations. In order to provide width down the right hand side, Debuchy will look to get past Tadic on the overlap when we attack whilst Pieters will remain defensive at all times.

Due to the likelihood of them playing three central players in midfield, who like to keep hold of the ball with great regularity, we have chosen to do the same. Neustadter is our deep-lying play maker, and he has the ability to ping the ball about from anywhere on the park. He will spread the play, as if a quaterback in American football, firing the ball outwide, to feed our wingers or to any incisive runs by Lampard/Hernandez. Lampard, will do similar however he will also have the role of breaking from deep. This is what he does best in an attacking sense, and having adjusted to a deeper role in recent years, is now lethal in such situations. This will get them on the back foot and ensure that space is created for himself and others. Therefore, this midfield has been designed with high levels of pressing and has the capabilities of breaking up the play before getting forwards incisively ourselves.

Draxler has an abundance of pace and skill, and will be looking to make a mockery of the defensively falliable full back. He will run, hard and fast, and be looking to put balls into the box for Hernandez to get on the end of. He is a frightening player, and one that will ensure they can not be too adventurous in their play. Tadic will play likewise on the right-wing, however he will also be playing as an inside-forward seeking to target the gap between the LB & CB This pace and trickery will allow Tadic to cut in on his favoured foot and either trouble with mid-range shots, feed in Debuchy on the overlap or play the ball in for Hernandez. Sigurdsson has a free role and will act as playmaker.

Hernandez is a wily fox-in-the-box. He knows his job inside out, and is on a good run of form. Leading from the front, he can snuff out a goal from anywhere and the direct form of football we have created which will result in the ball ending up in the box in dangerous situations suits his poacher mentality perfectly.

Subs:

Di Natale > Hernandez - 75 mins
Kirchhoff > Varane - 80 mins
Kelvin -> Tadic - 80 mins

Starting Line Up:

---------------------------Asenjo--------------------------
------------------Garay------------Umtiti-------------------
Rafael------------------------------------------Cissokho--
---------------------------Capoue--------------------------
--------------Strootman------------Pirlo------------------
Sarabia------------------------------------------Gaitan---
-------------------------Van Persie-------------------------


Subs: Günter, Montolvio, Kagawa, Marin, Drogba

Captain: Pirlo
Vice Captain: Van Persie

Penalties: Pirlo
Freekicks: Van Persie

This week we'll be looking to press the opposition and win the ball back as far up the pitch as we can, in doing so we'll be playing a higher line. We'll look to close their keeper down and not allow him to play it on the deck as he likes too, we'll also pounce on the second balls and not give the defenders any time to play.

When someone has a shot, one of the supporting players will always look for the rebound as Valdes is prone to parrying the ball out.

Sergio Asenjo gets the nod in goal. He'll be looking to play the ball out from the back so we can build our attacks.

Garay and Umtiti will be the center backs, they have the pace to play a high line. Garay will be the one of the two who brings the ball out from defence. He'll look to get the ball to Pirlo, (via Strootman on occasion). Umtiti is tough in the tackle but also has the speed and discipline to play in a high line. With the opposition playing the one up top we'll always have cover in the middle and should be able to freeze him out as we're quicker and stronger.

Rafael and Cissokho, will be operating as our wing backs. They'll be providing the cover down the flanks and the width for our attacks. They'll be looking the get forward and keep the oppositions wide men pegged back in their own half. They'll be looking to slide balls through us so we'll set out to show them outside and force them into crossing the ball in which they'll have difficulty getting anyone on the end of.

Capoue (the destroyer) takes up his place anchoring the midfield, his job will be to sit and mop up. He won't be venturing very far forward, he'll let the others in front of him do the attacking side of things. Pirlo will sit just in front to his left, the play maker, he'll be looking to get the ball from the defence and feed the attack via the wing backs or key passes to RVP.
Strootman will be playing just right of the 3, he'll be the engine, getting up and down the pitch, pressing the oppositions midfielders and not letting them get any sort of rhythm to their game.

Sarabia and Gaitan come back to play out wide / inside forwards. Their work rate will be important, they'll be looking to get the ball back off the opponents as quickly as they can so we can mount attacks closer to their goal. They can both cut inside, or look to one of the wing backs bombing down the flanks.

Van Persie will lead the attack, he's strong and deadly in and around the box, everyone knows what he's capable of, but his intelligence gives him the advantage and makes him pretty hard to stop. We'll be looking to get him on his left foot when we can, but also slide him through as he's more than capable of rounding the keeper.


If winning after 70 minutes:

Montolivo will replace Strootman, dropping in along side Capoue to keep the energy up in the middle of the park. Kagawa will replace Pirlo and sit in front of the two DM's in a bid to keep possession of the football. Marin will come in for Sarabia to keep that pressure up on the opponents and keep them pegged back.

If losing after 70 minutes:

Marin will replace Sarabia, Kagawa for Gaitan and Drogba for Strootman and we'll move to a 4-2-2-2 and go for the jugular.

Raf Garay Umtiti Ciss
--------Cap---Pirlo
Marin------------Kagawa
-------Drog--RVP

--------------------Forster------------------
Zabaleta---Subotic---Hummels--Gibbs
-------------Cabaye----Toure-------------
Atsu--------------Oscar-----------Deulofeu
------------------Lukaku-----------------

Subs: Unnerstall, Okore, Yacob, Bale, Benteke

C: Hummels
Corner L: Cabaye
Corner R: Cabaye
FKs L: Cabaye
FKs R: Cabaye
Pens: Cabaye


Today we’re playing at home to a side we should be beating, and I want that to be reflected in our control of the game. I want us to play an outstanding team game today, staying very tight together without the ball, and with it playing quick, sharp incisive passing. I want us to play a high line, keeping the space inbetween the defence and midfield to a minimum, with our midfielders pressing quickly, but not diving in, we must not allow them time to pick passes in behind, or take shots from distance, we want to take the ball off them or force them into going home again. When looking for the ball we must press together as a team. When we get the ball we have 5 midfielders capable of moving the ball around well and tiring the Bury team as well. The key today will be knowing when to keep possession and when to hit on the counter. Gibbs, Zab, Atsu, Toure, Cabaye, Oscar & Lukaku are all fantastic on the counter, and when we counter I want Cabaye sitting deep holding the midfield and picking the pass to cut open the defence. When keeping the ball I want Cabaye playing a little further forward as his passing is more intricate and he has a great shot on him, with Toure playing deeper to protect us from being countered.


Forster: He needs to keep his concentration levels up and play as he is capable of. He’s a fantastic shot stopper, the main things he needs to concentrate on is organising his defence and being
alert all game.

Zabaleta & Gibbs: Both are fantastic one on one defenders but are also very comfortable on the ball. Without possession I always want them goal side of the wingers, hassling them, but not diving in – trying to force them into a backwards pass. When we have the ball I want them both pulling wide and looking to get forward, whether or not they get the ball they will be dragging players out to them and stretching the opposition, giving us more space to do damage in the middle. I also want them making overlapping runs for Cazorla and Reus and looking to get the ball in the box when they get in a good wide position. Between them they will be providing the bulk of the width for todays game, and it’s important that they stay forward as much as possible just because that will stretch the opposition defence, leaving more space for the danger men further forward. Always must be looking across the line to see where the rest of the defence is, vital not to get caught deeper than the rest.

Hummels & Subotic: Hummels is the captain and will be bossing the back line, we have 4 players of great ability in defence and Hummels will be the one to make sure they’re organised and motivated, he will not let anyone get away without doing their job and will keep the defence sharp and focused. The two already have a great understanding and partnership going, I expect this to be key in keeping Bury out, especially as playing a high line we need the line to be perfect as one defender sitting deep will allow them in with a clever pass.

Toure: Toure will be the ballwinner today, essentially he will be offering protection for the back four, but he is more than capable of contributing to our attacks. He can change the pace of our attacks very quickly with his powerful runs from deep. I primarily want him sitting in front of the back four, sweep across sideways rather than going back and forwards. Using his strength and physicality to pressure the opposition into mistakes and not allow them any time on the ball. I also want him covering for the fullbacks so we don’t get caught on the break, I want the fullbacks pushing on a lot to provide width for us, so it’s vital he keeps an eye on them. When he gets the ball I just want him to help us control the game with some good passing and probing.


Cabaye: Today Cabaye will be the key man in our midfield, he can match it with Bury in terms of passing and controlling a game, but he can also hassle and press when needed, as well as bring a great goal out the bag. I want him to control the game, but if we get caught without the ball then he has the ability to pick a killer pass on the counter and we will have the players making the runs for him. He is also brilliant at timing late runs into the box and I’d like to see him doing this when he has an opportunity, but be smart about it and not try and do it too often, only when the perfect situation arises.


Atsu & Deulofeu: Today these two will be playing as more traditional wingers, I want to see them swapping wings and making clever runs, but essentially Lukaku and Oscar will be the main men through the middle, so I only want them venturing inside they have dragged players out wide. Obviously if they’re cutting in on their stronger foot that is not a bad thing either and I want to see them shooting, as both are capable of scoring great goals. I expect them to be on the ball a lot, controlling the game. I want them to keep the passing very short and sharp, being patient and waiting for an opportunity to make itself known. If they keep playing like this and involve Cabaye and Lukaku in it then they will create plenty of gaps in the opposition defence that they’ll be able to expose, they should also create plenty of space for Zab & Gibbs who will always be offering wide.
Generally I want to see them cutting in from the wing and having a shot, as they’re all so dangerous when they do, but with Zabaleta and Gibbs offering an overlapping run I want them to be aware of this option, and whenever one has the ball on their side, I want the other two attacking the area, flooding the opposition defence and giving them a lot of headaches.
This is a big chance for the two of them to prove themselves and put themselves forward for a starting spot, so I want to see them take it.

Oscar: Today he will be the danger man, I want to get him on the ball as much as possible in what is nearly a free role, he can beat a man, pick a pass or score a great goal from distance. I want him to drag the Bury defence & midfield around all over the shop, interchanging with the wingers, creating gaps for others to exploit. Man of the match today belongs to Oscar, if he wants it.

Lukaku: Today I want him getting involved quite a lot in the all round play, if he drops a little deep to play a quick give and go with a midfielder it will drag a defender with him, which will create space in behind for Atsu & Deulofeu to exploit. I want to see the CBs not knowing who is going to drop with him, or whether the MF should be picking him up, I want his movement to confuse them. Ultimately when we get the ball in the most dangerous positions I want him making little runs across the defenders for crosses, or off their shoulder for through balls. His finishing might not be the best but his sheer size and power should be enough to give the opposition CBs a nightmare of a game which means he will get plenty of chances and eventually a few will go in. I feel he’s good enough to hold up the play to bring others in, good enough to work off the shoulder of the last man and to score from crosses into the box from the FBs, too.



Subs:

If winning around 65 mins:

Yacob for Atsu, just to hold the midfield better and fresh legs to keep us in control of the game, I want him to do what he does best and keep the ball moving, tiring the opposition.
Bale for Delofeu, fresh legs to offer a pacey direct threat against a tiring defence who have been chasing shadows all game.

----------------Yacob---------
Oscar----Toure---Cabaye--Bale

75th Min – Benteke for Lukaku, straight swap.



If losing/drawing around 70 mins.
----Subotic—Hummels—Zabaleta----
---------Cabaye-----Yacob------------
Oscar-----------Toure --------Bale
--------Benteke-------Lukaku---------

Yacob for Delofeu – to hold the midfield allowing Toure to move further forward and provide a much more direct threat.
Benteke for Gibbs – fresh legs to get at a tiring defence. Very strong fast and good in the air, will cause problems.
Bale for Atsu – To do what he does best and run at the opposition, commit players and create chances, whether for himself or others.

-------------------Adler
--------------------Diawara
Rafinha-----Mbiwa------Burdisso—Balzaretti
---------------Veloso—Rode
Wilshere-----------------------Ince
------------------Huntelaar

Game Plan: In recent weeks I have tried to play attacking however they clearly do not work. Therefore I will resort back to my original tactics of a 5-2-2-1 with 1 midfielder dropping back every now and then. This tactic has only beaten Burnley so far however it did get a draw vs 21s team. As a result it has a proven track record. What i want from my team is to just clear the ball away when it gets into our area. I want my defenders to jump in front of the ball and reduce the space. We are parking the bus. Obviously if my attackers get hold of the ball when its clear we can start an attack however what i want is for the other team to struggle breaking through us.

Adler should stop the ball going in the net. That is his job. Commanding the defence also.

Diawara should just stay in his position protecting the keeper. He must clear all the balls away from the goal. He should push the opposition players away.

Burdisso and Mbiwa must stay in a deep position and closing up any space that the strikers will target. They must bully the striker or strikers off the ball and keep them man marked. As a result the opposition with find it difficult to create chances through him. Protecting Diawara and the keeper is important. Stay back and act physical.

Rafinha should use his speed to trap the winger towards the corner flag or back towards his own half. This means any attempt to cross the ball or run into the box is stopped. He is not allowed to move up the pitch at all. He must clear any space that the attackers can penetrate. Use his physical strength to push them away from the ball. Balzaretti should do the same.

Veloso and Rode must act as protection of the back 5 and then supplying the ball to the wings or just smack it forward. Veloso should keep with their main playmaker or if unless that is not possible move back and act as a 4th centre back. We must not allow them to score whatsoever. Rode must also stay back just pushing players away, giving them a cheeky kick or two and basically to just keep it away from defence. He can also form a 7 man defence to stop their team breaking through us. 7 men in defence should be enough to keep them out. However i repeat that Veloso and Rode are only to move into the centre back positions every now and then, not all the time. When they are off the ball stay with the defence so that no player can find any space.

Wilshere and Ince should use their pace and skills to run into the box and taking any opportunities presented to them. They must roam about the midfield by looking for space and creating themselves as a passing option or look for the ball that was cleared by the defence. They should switch positions every 20 minutes to constantly make the defenders adjust to a new style of player to defend. It could also lead to them mistakenly following them which would free up space on that side of the pitch.

Huntelaar should just look to get into goalscoring positions by using his pace and strength to force his way into the box.

FK – Wilshere
PK – Huntelaar
CK - Ince

----------------------------Miglonet--------------
Montoya ------ Boeting -------- Roncaglia -----------Rose
--------------Nordtveit ----------- Verratti--------------
-----Kiyotake ---------- Fellaini----------------- Holtby
----------------------- Lewandowski----------------------

SUBS
Steele (GK Cover)
Bruma (CB Cover)
Forfana (if winning 88 mins > Fellaini)
N'diaye (cover)
Miroslav Klose (If losing 70 mins > Nordtveit) 4-4-2 with Fellani and Verratti CM




( C ) = The one with the Afo
Free kicks – Holtby
Pennys – Robert



Mig – as a goal keeper I expect you to be loud and boss you area. I expect you to do the easy stuff right and keep concentration and allow your god given talent to make the big saves when/if needed. You have an experienced back 4 ahead of you so it should be easy.

Boeting and Roncaglia – you’re good 'european' CB’s who are physically strong and great in the air. I expect neither of you to lose a header tonight and I want to see you stop the striker. Cover for each other and don’t be too silly on the ball just get rid. Though if you have time and space look to play the ball out from the back, NO SMOKING DURING THE GAME

Only On of the Barca Boys – THis is a bad day with alba bailing on me... however both are good enough to play instead.... attack down the side but dont forgett to defence well

Nordtveit and Verratti – you are the controllers, the hub of the team and I have faith in both of you. Look to get the ball from the back 4 and play it out wide or forward. Link with everyone around you and find the killer pass. Do not be overrun in midfield and make the enforcing tackles. Both of you are playing for top European teams and are more than good enough.
Fellaini – dominate the midfield attack with the ball to feet and attack the ball in the air. No defense can handle you so play like you have for me and Everton in the past. Link up with the loan striker, wingers and the CM and draw the defense out to create space for other… if you want to take them on and shoot too. Also make yourself a target from set pieces. IF WE ARE GETTING DOMINATED IN CM DROP BACK, and attack from CM and become the enforcer and make sure we win the midfield.

Wingers – attack the man and get crosses in for Robert or Fellaini to head, cut inside and shoot yourself or play early into feet. Make sure your looking for the overlap and when it happens covering the wings for counter attacks.

Robert –NICE OF YOU TO PLAY Lone striker with plenty of help, look for the ball to feet and taking on defense, Make a nuisance of yourself and draw defenders to create space for the big man or get your head on crosses. Hold the ball up or shoot and score it doesn’t matter. Just make sure you are never isolated and if you are drop deeper to collect the ball and look to pass to the on rushing attackers.

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Dagenham & Redbridge U21 Tactics:

-------------------------------------Branescu-----------------------
--McLaughlin---Ibrahima M'Baye--Kolasinac----Digne
---------------Marco Benassi------Saul Niguez-----------
---Marko Livaja----------Wilfried Zaha----------Max Meyer
------------------------------Neal Maupay-------------

Subs: Holzhauser, Rabiot, Gnabry, Cirigliano, Heintz

McLaughlin-Rampage down the right with his brilliant attacking quality, but track back to prevent runs. Must whip crosses in to the feet of attackers

Mbaye & Kolasinac-Must stay strong, win everything in the air, put body on the line, and be a rock in defence. Mbaye comes up for corners

Lucas Digne-Do what hes done at Lille, defend brilliantly, whilst also coming inside to join up with attack

Benassi & Saul-Benassi more defensive, make himself a strong and physical presence, keeping the ball rolling and shooting from long range. Saul must link up the midfield to attack, and gives us that flair which can control a game.

Livaja-The young Inter star out on loan recently scored two goals for his new club and should look to break into the opposition box using a wide range of skills, and use his brilliant feet to jiggle away from tackles. Must link up well with Zaha to cause a devastating partnership.

Wilfrid Zaha-The main player. He will be much better in the center, and must look to get brilliant sly passes into the feet of Maupay. He will look to run up and support Maupay, but also use his fantastic vision to send in through balls out wide. He has brilliant dribbling skills so will always escape attention of his man

Max Meyer-Must cut in at all times and use his frightening pace and power to cause the RB problems. Must come in to support Maupay, and get his brilliant shots on target

Neal Maupay-The man who has been doing brilliant this season, will play in the ST role. He will look to latch onto any ball, and use his magic to work the ball into an area where it will be the most dangerous. His brilliant runs will tire the opposition, and his finishing can be top class when given the opportunity. At 16, Maupay is starting and scoring for Nice in Ligue 1 which is incredible

Subs:

60mins: Holzhauser > Saul, brilliant Stuttgart starter will control midfield, more dominant and flexibl;e than Saul

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NEW WEEK!

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