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Page 48 of 57

posted on 30/3/13

--------------------------Lloris------------------------
Debuchy--------Kaboul------Rami----------Ekotto
---------------Gustavo--------Witsel------------------
Varela----------------Marchisio---------------Destro
---------------------------Huntelaar--------------------

Subs; Horn, Sandander, Alvarez, Pjanic, Destro, Strootman

Game plan:
My team are at home and we need to win this to keep up with our European challenge. The balance of the team looks good with the midfield 3, all of my team will be putting a shift in and give 100%. The team will look to play simple passes and will always start from the back, if the midfield run out of options they shouldn’t be afraid to start again from the back. The team will look to keep the ball on the floor as much as possible as we are not the tallest team and this may give the other team the advantage. We will look to play wider with the wide players keeping the options open for the team. When my team are crossing the ball drilled crosses will be preferred.
When it comes to the opposition we will look to close them down quickly and give them no time on the ball, always trying to make them rush their passes and cause mistakes. We will look to disrupt the tempo of the game and ideally we will want dictate the tempo ourselves. We will show their wide players onto their weaker foot and into the corner.
<b>Lloris:</b>
Lloris is a decent keeper and he will look to demand his area, he will collect/punch crosses and he will collect loose balls that come into the box. He will use a big voice if he wants the ball left by the defenders.
<b>Debuchy and Ekotto: </b>
(Attacking) – They will look to receive the ball from the keeper and start attacks from the back but I don’t want them to hoof the ball they will look to pass the ball out. When the team are attacking I would like both players to push up and provide an option for the wide men. I would also like them to overlap to also help the wide men and put in a decent crosses. Both players however will need to make sure if they commit to an attack that they can get back if the opposition launch a counter attack if they are not confident then I don’t want them to push up as much.
(Defending) When these players are defending I will ask them to talk to the wide men infront of them if they need cover or help. I will ask for these players to stick tight to the opposition wide men and to show them onto their weaker foot to weaken the cross and guide them into the corner and try to concede a throw in rather than a throw in. If a CB commits to an attack I would like these players to cover and holes in the defense that need to be covered.
<b>Kaboul and Rami:</b>
(Attacking) – Both of the defenders will look to collect the ball from the goalkeeper and they will look to start attacks by passing the ball into the midfield however if there is no opening in midfield they should look for the long ball (preferably out wide) or they should not be shy to keep it in the defense and encourage players to make openings for them. For corners both players should go up and one or both of the full backs will cover.
(Defending) – Kaboul will mark the main striker he will stick close to him and will use his power to beat the player in the air, he will show him onto his weaker foot and look to dispossess him without giving away any silly fouls.
Rami will take the second striker or he will provide cover for Kaboul and will clean up loose balls. If he is marking another striker I would also like him to make the player play on his weaker foot and show him away from goal.
<b> Gustavo and Witsel </b>
(Attacking) – Both of these players will be playing the deeper role in the team and they will both look to spread the play over the pitch when they are position however they will look to play it simply and not over complicate their passes and wont play still passes that will cost us possession.
Witsel will be the player to push up if we are struggling to create many chance where as Gustavo will not and will Stay back, Witsel will be used as the box to box midfielder and will need to work hard.
(Defending) – Both players will need to close the opposition down quickly and give them no space looking to dispossess them and start quick attacks when they do they will need to rush Villa this is important that they do this!! They will look to track the runs of the oppositions and one of them must make sure they are picking up the most creative Villa player in the midfield.
<b> Marchisio </b>
Marchisio can finally be given the free role in the team he will look to create attacks, join attacks, get into the box when he can, collect the ball and always look to make something happen. The free role will enable him to move anywhere on the pitch to collect the ball and make things happen this will make him harder to mark aswell.
When we are defending he needs to close the opposition down as he is not afraid of putting in a tackle and is more than capable of dispossessing the oppsotion and breaking at pace so he will close the opposition down and when we win the ball back look to get into good positions to receive the ball so he can start attacks.
<b>Varela and Lavezzi:</b>
(Attacking) – Varela and Affelay will look to stick to the wings when not in possession they will look to receive the ball all the time and these two will need to put a shift in. They will look to take on their defenders and get to the byline and put crosses in for the strikers, as said above drilled crosses will be better for our players to try and get onto the end of. If they are feeling more confident both players can cut inside and take on the defenders and lay the ball off or have a shot, they will be asked to mix it up and not make their play to predictable. They will use the full backs to create space in behind the defenders for them to run into. If our team win possession they need to look to run into space to create a counter attack
(Defending) – Both players will need to put a shift in defensively also they will look to track back the runs of the Boro full backs. They will look to help out our full backs by doubling up on the winger if the opposition full backs don’t commit to the attack. If our full backs commit too far forward they will also look to cover the full back positions if needed.
<b>Huntelaar: </b>
(Attacking) - Huntelaar is a clinical finisher and will not be afraid to run at defenders and unleash a shot or two. He will be in the box when the crosses come into the box to try and get a tap in.
Marchisio will be having the free role so will be able to join Huntelaar and Huntelaar can use Marchisio to make space to create chances.
If winning on the 75th min
Strootman > Witsel – Fresh legs will do the same job.


posted on 30/3/13

--------------------Courtois
Azpilicueta--Nkoulou--Dante--Marcelo
-------------Marrone---Beñat
Ramires------------Mata---------Asamoah
---------------------Villa

Subs: Alves, Kalas, Capoue, De Bruyne, Lamela, Cavani, Martinez

Captain: Nkoulou
Free Kicks: Mata
Corners: Mata
Penalties: Villa

Game Plan: We face a very dangerous attacking side today but we feel they are there for the taking on the attack, particularly if we can use our pace on the counter attack as they leave massive gaps down their flanks which we will look to exploit. We intend to draw them out of their half, inviting them forward and playing with numbers behind the ball, covering all the spaces as their CMs don't have the passing ability to open us up, if we make the likes of Hazard and Oscar play infront of us, getting tight to them when they get the ball and being strong, they will struggle to create chances. On the ball we have some excellent passers through the middle with blistering pace on the wings to allow us to attack their FBs and supply the striker. Look to tire them out as much as possible by allowing them to have the ball but making them work hard to find space, and then force them to track back, when we bring our impact subs on we will easily have the upper hand in this game.

Tactics:
Courtois will command his area, using his physical presence to come and claim the crosses whilst using his pace off the line to close down any player who gets in on goal. Look to get the ball out to the wingers to quickly start counters when possible.

The FBs have important jobs today as we see the wings as the main attacking threat from Newcastle as well as the main area to target offensively. Azpi will likely be up against Hazard which will suit us today, he's a brilliant one v one defender and Hazard aims to take his defenders on in this way. Azpi will get close to him quickly before he can make his mind up on where to go and be ready to get the tackle in, force him wide at times when the tackle isn't possible but never allow him in field. He's also excellent at coming across and covering for the CBs which he will look to do when possible if there's us danger. Marcelo will use his excellent pace to face up to the winger and not allow him to get a run on him, get in a tackle and force them out wide, don't give them easy crossing chances. Offensively we look to take advantage of the space left down the flanks which means our FBs need to use their pace to get in support of the wingers, looking to make decoy runs around them and look to get into crossing space or take a defender with them, particularly effective when running into the channels, this will drag players out of position around and in the box and open spaces up. When we have the ball in sustained pressure they take in turns to get in support of the winger, stretching the game with the extra width and looking to supply the striker, Marcelo can use his excellent link up play to open things up down the left, whilst Azpi uses his runs to the byline and good pull backs.

Dante and Nkoulou will force the strikers to play infront of them where they can stop their threat. Dante man marks the main striker, using his strength and heading ability to stop him getting in the game and clearing any danger away from him. Nkoulou is there to stop the midfield runners from picking up space around the area, make sure they are tightly marked and can't get the ball under control around the area, he will also use his pace to cover any loose balls that get beyond Dante, mopping up the danger. One the ball Dante is an incredible passer and he can cut Newcastle open with a long ball out to the wings to get us countering.

The midfield 3 are all excellent on the ball and all of them can pick that killer through ball that will open a team up. Likewise all three are fantastic at working hard and pressing the opposition to force errors and lose the ball, we feel this will be key to our game today. We look to drag the CMs forward, especially Mikel and then we double up on them, Mikel often gives the ball away when surrounded so we close down in twos in order to force the error and then launch the clinical counter attacks. Marrone will act as the DM, he looks to focus on Oscar who we expect to be central, working hard to close him down and being strong against him, don't give him the time to pick his pass but don't get sucked in as he will just step away from you, look to intercept the passes towards him or close him down when the ball gets to him, forcing him to pass back or side to side and keeping them playing in front of us. His passing is excellent and he can open things up for us from deep. Beñat will be pressing with Mata looking to slow the opposition attacks down keeping them playing infront and trying to force mistakes and win the ball back. On the ball his passing is phenomenal he can work around the midfield to get us playing into space, particularly looking out wide to use our pace, he has a license to join the attacks from deep too. Mata will be the main instigator of the attacks, he will move all around the field finding the pockets of space and hurting the opposition with his fantastic vision and movement. We want him going to the wings to help open the spaces up, working off the striker, arriving late in the box to end attacks, dropping deep to start the attacks. We want a typical Mata performance.

Ramires and Asamoah will have a big role today as they look to use their pace and energy to wear out the opposition. Ramires uses his direct running and skill when he gets on the ball to take advantage of the space he gets and then he can work towards the box to put a cross in or play a one two and get himself in on goal. Asamoah look to get right out to the left and stretch things, he always seems to find space down the flanks and from here can get dangerous crosses in or attack the penalty area with his speed. This two are always ready for the counter as we look to draw the opposition and free space for them to work in. Defensively they can track back and stop the FBs doubling up on ours, they have a great engine room and won't tire at all but their endless running will hurt the opposition.

Villa starts as CF, he looks to always be on the move as Newcastle's remaining CBs aren't the most mobile or quick. He's ready to make his runs behind to get on the end of a through ball or pull off the shoulder off the defenders in the box to finish crosses. He can also move wide or deep and look to switch things up to cause problems.

Subs:

If Winning: Capoue for Marrone 70'. De Bruyne for Mata 80'. Kalas for Villa 85', 5-4-0

If Drawing: Lamela and Cavani for Ramires and Asamoah 70', Lamela and Villa will support Cavani from the wings with Mata in behind and really go at them. De Bruyne for Beñat 75', fresh creativity.

If Losing: Lamela for Marrone 65', Lamela plays RM, Ramires CM. Cavani for Marcelo 70', 3-5-2. Martinez for Asamoah 80':

Courtois
Azpi Nkoulou Dante
Ramires Beñat
Lamela Mata Villa
Martinez Cavani

Red Card:
GK: Alves on for Beñat, Ramires Cm, Mata RM, 4-4-1
RB: Kalas for Beñat as above
CB: Kalas for Benat as above
LB: Kalas for Beñat, Azpi to LB, Kalas RB, as above
DM: Ramires into CM alongside Beñat, if at any point we take the lead Capoue on for Beñat
Beñat: Ramires into CM
Ramires/Asamoah: Mata moves outwide
Villa: Cavani replaces Beñat, as above.

At any time after 70' if we have the lead or at drawing we bring Capoue on for Mata to see the game out.

At any time after 70' if we're behind we can bring Lamela and Cavani off the bench for Asamoah and Villa and look to get something from the game.

Always defend as a unit if down to 10 men.

comment by Park (U13708)

posted on 30/3/13

Arsenal vs. EVERTON

-----------------Lindegaard-----------------
Srna---Ferdinand-----Garay------Taylor
-------------Veloso-------Paulinho---------
-----Mirallas-------KPB--------Sinclair----
--------------------Drogba------------------

Subs: Benalgio, Miranda, Alves, Gibson, Lampard, Ramirez, De Jong

Tactics:

General - Up against a top top side today, so we're playing some really experienced players at the back in Garay, Ferdinand and Srna. We need to make sure we stick to the tactics and work as a team, there won't be any individuals today, we're a unit. We'll stay compact at the back, every player bar Pazzini coming back and defending. Then when we win the ball it's straight up to Pazzini to hold it up whilst our extremely quick quad of Paulinho, Mirallas, KPB and Sinclair break forward.

GK - Lindegaard is a very good shot stopper, and we're delighted to have him in net. One of his main strengths is his speed, once he gets the ball from a shot or cross he'll get it up as quickly as he can. He'll also use his position in net to survey the whole pitch and make sure the defence is perfectly positioned to cripple Arsenal's attacks.

FB - Srna and Taylor will largely be pinned right back, they can't venture too far forward because that will allow Arsenal's wingers in behind them. However, if they get the opportunity to break forward when both the opposition winger and FB have moved forward then they will. Srna his a superb attacker, and his crossing ability is Beckhamesque. Taylor is another very good FB, and his understanding with Sinclair on the left will be key to his success today.

CB - Ferdinand and Garay - Both are very good ball playing defenders which is useful against Arsenal, because bar Ronaldo, they don't have any real aerial threats. CB's will stay glued to the 18yard line to make sure Arsenal are limited to long range pop shots, and can't use their pace and passing ability to get in behind us.

CDM - Veloso and Paulinho are full of energy and pace. They will act as a shield between Arsenal's attackers and our defence. They have to work hard to hassle and harry the opposition so they can't build on anything. Force Arsenal to move it quicker than they'd like so they can't actually think where they're going. When we do win the ball, Paulinho must use his pace to burst forward to offer another attacking option.

Wingers - Sinclair and Mirallas are stupendously quick wingers, and this is very useful against Arsenals FB's who like to get forward. When Alves/Coentrao/Cole attack our pace will mean they can't get back and defend if we counter, leaving Arsenal's CB's isolated.

AM - KPB has much the same role as the wingers, looks like it'll be Yaya and Garcia at CM with Busquets injured, and both like to venture forward. When one does KPB will pull into the space left by them and really hurt Arsenal on the counter.

ST - Pazzini is a brilliant aerial player. He'll use his strength and tenacity to win the balls forward to him and hold it up, before playing in our speeding midfielders in behind the CB's who will hopefully be left alone as Arsenal attack. He won't necessarily score much today, but his vision and talents allow us to hurt Arsenal if we counter attack.

Subs -

Like for like unless we're winning at 70 minutes. Then bring on Lampard and Gibson for KPB and Sinclair. Play 4-4-2 with a very narrow midfield, and Mirallas dropping back offering pace for the outlet ball and a new option for the midfield on the ball. Lampard and Gibson will use their passing ability to retain the ball and frustrate a tired Arsenal.

FK - Srna
PN - KPB
RC - Mirallas
LC - KPB

comment by Robin (U3899)

posted on 30/3/13

---------------------Szczesny
Zabaleta----Boateng---Juan----Kolarov
----------------Mikel-----De Jong
Milner-------------Oscar------------Hazard-
-----------------------Higuain

Subs:
Ali Al Habsi
Serge Aurier
Ryan Giggs
Mathieu Valbuena
Andre Pierre Gignac
Antonio Di Natale
Fernando LLorente

Captain: Pablo Zabaleta
Free Kicks: Eden Hazard
Penalties: Eden Hazard
Corners: Hazard (from left, inswing) Milner (From right, outswing)

Game Plan: A big opportunity for us to get one over our rivals and we have the advantage since we are at home.

Defensively we look to be solid. Walcott’s injury may be a blessing in disguise since Milner plays on the RW. He will provide more defensive stability and help Zabaleta out by doubling up on Livepool’s LW, most likely Villa/Mata. Zabaleta will use his experience and make sure the defense is up to scratch, keeping a good line and leaving no spaces. We obviously have the threat of Mata to deal with, but with two solid defensive midfielders in the middle of the park, Mikel and De Jong, he would struggle to find any space. Both have the responsibility of picking him up, depending who he is closest to. Their experience will be vital in this game. Oscar will keep tabs on Ramires as he is likely to pick up the ball from deep. We don’t want him influencing this game.

I want my team to attack efficiently. Through the centre, Oscar will use his drive, stamina, dribbling abilities to put momentum into our attack. He will also pass the ball intelligently, using their both long range passing and short passing. Look for the threat of Milner on the RW, especially if Liverpool play a high line. Hazard will look to be a mix bag. He will take on his winger, but has the licence to drift in also, interchanging positions with Oscar, and allowing the overlap for Kolarov. I feel we have enough attacking threat today to win the game. Higuain will do what he is best at, attack the channels and create space for others such as Hazard Milner and Oscar taking up the space left behind in. He will use his excellent crossing ability also. We will attack freely with the three behind the striker able to move where they like in order to open things up and drag players out of position opening up spaces in defence.

We will look to target Liverpool’s ‘lack of DM’ today due to the injury to Matuidi. Oscar has a good advantage today and Hazard will also drift in on some occasions to create things, which allows Kolarov to overlap.

Szczesny will use his height to collect crosses, allowing our defence to keep in shape, if we have a chance to counter from there Szczesny uses his quick distribution to the wingers. He must command his area. Come for crosses when he is at least 80% sure he can get them. He will pass the ball out unless he is 80% sure we will not lose the ball when kicking it long as we want to keep possession as much as possible in this game.

Zabaleta & Kolarov must not give the Opposition wingers any time on the ball. If the opportunity presents then they should attack. If one of the full back attacks then the other one MUST stay back so we have 3 defenders back at all times along with Mikel.

Boateng and Juan, A good mix of power, pace, aerial ability and composure on the ball, allows us to be commanding at the back and limit the amount of opportunities for the opposition. Boateng will control the back four and make sure everybody is doing their job correctly by using his excellent leadership skills. Boateng and Juan will stay close to each other not allowing LIVERPOOL to open up space. Boateng looks to defend the first ball coming towards our defence, using his reading of the game to get there before the striker and clear, he'll use his great tackling to shut him down around the area and then look to get the ball back. Juan stays in position when Boateng does this covering the remaining space, he will be able to clear the second ball if it gets beyond Boateng.

Mikel sits in front of the defence and try and break down attacks and start new ones for us. He will be strong in their tackles and always play it simple when on the ball. De Jong will be his partner who will play close to him when defending. He has the responsibility in helping out the full backs also.

Oscar will be our advanced playmaker. He has the ability to pick out the cutest of passes, which is just what we need with players like Higuain, Hazard, Milner in the team. He has to manipulate the play and find these players in free space. Oscar is also there to support Higuain. When needed he will drop into midfield and make it tight.

Milner and Hazard will be the wingers, and both should provide us natural width I want them to put the opposition full backs under pressure. They will play in an attacking role. They must keep the ball if there is no support and wait for players to arrive. They may also go for long range shots as both are good at them. This will also make the opposition full backs not attack making our job in defence easier. Furthermore they both have the ability to do that and are very good at it. Hazard is instructed to come on his right foot sometimes and take a ‘shock’ shot, catching the keeper out. Look for Higuain’s runs also.

Higuain will play in an ‘advanced forward’ role. By this it means they will make dangerous runs in behind, and hold the ball up as well as various other things. They must be patient and wait for chances and when they do come they must finish them. A lot of movement is required from them also; keep the opposition defenders on their toes! He will attack the channels also and use his excellent crossing ability, especially the drilled cross.

If winning –
Emboaba Oscar off for Mathieu Valbuena 75’. Valbuena goes RW, Milner LW, Hazard AM. Shore up the wings and provides the opportunity for Hazard to have a bigger influence on the game playing in a free position where Liverpool will no doubt leave gaps searching for their goal.
Gonzalo Higuain off for Fernando Llorente 75’
Gives us a target to aim for and will hold the ball up for us so we can keep hold of the ball and release the pressure

If drawing – Gonzalo Higuain off for Fernando Llorente 75’ and James Milner off for Mathieu Valbuena 75’
Lets try something different. A different striker up top along with a different wingers and fresh legs.

If losing 65/70/75/80/85 mins –
Nigel De Jong off for Fernando Llorente – 4-4-2
80mins – Kolarov off for Di Natale – 3-4-3
80mins: Mikel off for Vlabuena

Valbuena------Milner------Oscar-------Hazard
--------Higuain---Llorente---Di Natale

If Keeper gets sent off then AM comes off for keeper on bench
In this case: De Jong > Al Habsi 4-2-2-2
If Defender gets sent off then AM comes off for Defender on bench
In this case: Zabaleta CB, Aurier > De Jong. 4-2-2-2
If DM gets sent off (Mikel/De Jong) then AM for DM on bench
In this case: 2 remaining CM’s go more defensive
If st gets sent off, the AM for St on bench
In this case: De Jong > Llorente

posted on 1/4/13

CHELSEA U-21's

------------Trapp------------
Rhijn-S.Kaya-Dragovic-Indi
-----P.Jones---Fokobo------
A.Lallana--Baker--Ocampos
------------Rhodes------------

Vllachodimos, Conteh, Christensen, Kongolo, Polo, Vietto, Cornelius

Trapp solid in goal will come out for high balls and punch clear what he cant catch, close forwards down and reduce angles..Release wide men early to set up quick counters.

Back four must stay solid, Rhijn and Indi strong in the tackle and keep wingers to the outside, dont allow them to cut into the box, stay focussed and dont dive in, support our wingers but one at a time when we attack.
Kaya and Dragovic looking to put on good dispalys to pressure Nastasic as No.1 back up for the main squad, Dragovic will man mark and watch the CF very closely, kaya sits spare and helps those around him or for any other attacker coming through, both attack the ball to clear.

Jones is the main DM sits justy in front of CBs andkeeps there playmaker/AM quiet, onto him quickly and dont allow him to dictate play, once ball is won simple balls to those around him. Fokobo is another who uis strong in the tackle, help Jones is the centre and make a solid partnership for them to find hard to break down, nice and easy balls and follow the pass making himself available at all times.
Lallana and Ocampos out wide will have freedom to attack today get down the lines and force there fbs back. Drive at them with the support they will have from Rhijn and Indi and get the ball into Rhodes/CF, cut inside using the CMs to plays one-twos to get them in and beyond the CBs to have a go. Follow there Fbs when they atack and stop them getting into dangerous positions.
Baker is in a free role, he will dictate in the middle, picking up from behind and get it moving forward, always look for the ball and get into dangerous positions to support Rhodes.
Rhodes starts to try and get him scoring and pressurizing the 3 above him in them main squad, a natural finisher, knows where/when to be to finish off the chances he will get from those around him, always on toes and moving away from marker to get into space to shoot.

Captain:- Jones
Penalties:- Rhodes/CF
Free Kicks:- Baker/lallana
Corners:- Wingers

Subs:-

Vietto, Polo, Cornelius - 70 mins
for
Baker, Ocampos, Rhodes

------------Trapp------------
Rhijn-S.Kaya-Dragovic-Indi
-----P.Jones---Fokobo------
Vietto-----Lallana-----A.Polo
-----------Cornelius----------

comment by Robin (U3899)

posted on 4/4/13

========================================
SEMI FINAL TACTICS SECOND LEG VS HULL CITY
========================================

---------------------Szczesny
Zabaleta----Ivanovic---Godin----Kolarov
----------------Mikel-----De Jong
Walcott-------------Oscar------------Hazard-
-----------------------Higuain

Subs:
Ali Al Habsi
Jerome Boateng
Marquinhos
James Milner
Mathieu Valbuena
Andre Pierre Gignac
Fernando LLorente

Captain: Pablo Zabaleta
Free Kicks: Eden Hazard
Penalties: Eden Hazard
Corners: Hazard (from left, inswing) Walcott (From right, outswing)

Game Plan: A big opportunity for us to get through to a huge cup final and we have the advantage since we are at home and have two away goals to defend. We play two different CB’s, to the ones who conceded four goals on the weekend. This will help us to keep fresh for Chelsea also. I want my team to attack effieciently. We set up to be broken down in CM with De Jong and Mikel in there. Through the centre, Oscar will his his drive, stamina, dribbling abilities to put momentum into our attack. He will also pass the ball intelligently, using their both long range passing and short passing. Look for the threat of Walcott on the RW, especially if Hull play a high line. Hazard will look to be a mix bag. He will take on his winger, but has the licence to drift in also, interchanging positions with Oscar, and allowing the overlap for Kolarov. I feel we have enough attacking threat today to win the game. Higuain will do what he is best at, attack the channels and create space for others such as Hazard Walcott and Oscar taking up the space left behind in. He will use his excellent crossing ability also. We will attack freely with the three behind the striker able to move where they like in order to open things up and drag players out of position opening up spaces in defence.

Szczesny will use his height to collect crosses, allowing our defence to keep in shape, if we have a chance to counter from there Szczesny uses his quick distribution to the wingers. He must command his area. Come for crosses when he is at least 80% sure he can get them. He will pass the ball out unless he is 80% sure we will not lose the ball when kicking it long as we want to keep possession as much as possible in this game.

Zabaleta & Kolarov must not give the Opposition wingers any time on the ball. If the opportunity presents then they should attack. If one of the full back attacks then the other one MUST stay back so we have 3 defenders back at all times along with Mikel.

Godin and Ivanovic, A good mix of power, pace, aerial ability and composure on the ball, allows us to be commanding at the back and limit the amount of opportunities for the opposition. Godin will control the back four and make sure everybody is doing their job correctly by using his excellent leadership skills. Godin and Ivanovicwill stay close to each other not allowing HULL to open up space. Ivanoviclooks to defend the first ball coming towards our defence, using his Hull of the game to get there before the striker and clear, he'll use his great tackling to shut him down around the area and then look to get the ball back. Godin stays in position when Ivanovicdoes this covering the remaining space, he will be able to clear the second ball if it gets beyond Ivanovic.

Mikel sits in front of the defence and try and break down attacks and start new ones for us. He will be strong in their tackles and always play it simple when on the ball. De Jong will be his partner who will play close to him when defending. He has the responsibility in helping out the full backs also.

Oscar will be our advanced playmaker. He has the ability to pick out the cutest of passes, which is just what we need with players like Higuain, Hazard, Walcott in the team. He has to manipulate the play and find these players in free space. Oscar is also there to support Higuain. When needed he will drop into midfield and make it tight.

Walcott and Hazard will be the wingers, and both should provide us natural width I want them to put the opposition full backs under pressure. They will play in an attacking role. They must keep the ball if there is no support and wait for players to arrive. They may also go for long range shots as both are good at them. This will also make the opposition full backs not attack making our job in defence easier. Furthermore they both have the ability to do that and are very good at it. Hazard is instructed to come on his right foot sometimes and take a ‘shock’ shot, catching the keeper out. Look for Higuain’s runs also.

Higuain will play in an ‘advanced forward’ role. By this it means they will make dangerous runs in behind, and hold the ball up as well as various other things. They must be patient and wait for chances and when they do come they must finish them. A lot of movement is required from them also; keep the opposition defenders on their toes! He will attack the channels also and use his excellent crossing ability, especially the drilled cross.

If winning –Milner on for Theo Walcott 70’75’80’ – Milner goes RW.
80’ Boateng for Oscar and Llorente for Higuain 80’. Boateng plays as a 5th defender but infront of the defence.

If drawing –
If conceded more than 2 goals - Mikel off for Llorente 75’/80’/85’ – Two up top, Walcott and Hazard wingers, Oscar and De Jong CM

If losing by two goals 65/70/75/80/85 mins – Mikel off for Llorente – 4-4-2
80mins – Ivanovic off for Gignac – 3-4-3
80mins: De Jong off for Milner

If Keeper gets sent off then AM comes off for keeper on bench
In this case: De Jong > Al Habsi 4-2-2-2
If Defender gets sent off then AM comes off for Defender on bench
In this case: De Jong > Boateng. 4-2-2-2
If RB gets sent off, the Ivanovic goes RB, If LB gets sent off then Zabaleta LB with Boateng coming on
If DM gets sent off (Mikel/De Jong) then AM for DM on bench
In this case: Milner on for Oscar
If st gets sent off, the AM for St on bench
In this case: De Jong > Llorente

posted on 5/4/13

Norwich

------------------Mignolet-------------------
-----Alderweireld-Skrtel-M.Caceres------
-------------Palombo-Gonzalez-------------
---Osman------Montolivio-------Sandro---
-------------------Morata--------------------
-----------------A.Negredo------------------

Rudd, Van der Hoorn, Rolfes, Lens, Jese, Praet, Toivonen

Leading on from Welshys good point v Hull we set out in a similar fashion. We want to contain Wigan in the middle of the pitch and hit them on the break with some really good forward players, especially the two Spaniards up top, play quick, dynamic passing around the Wigan players and get it up to these two.

Simon Mignolet in goal will look to dominate the area, use his massive frame to intimidate strikers and close them down early, thus reducing the angle they have to shoot at goal. Be big and strong and dont be bullied come out to collect high balls and punch what you cant catch. Get it out early to wide boys or big kicks up field to set off the strikers.

A back 3 may be a gamble but its a strong back 3. Skrtel at the centre will mark the CF prob Damiao, stick to him like glue, watch his movement, match his power and do not bail out of anything, if he turns match his runs, do not let him anywhere near goal..when they are atacking Alderweireld and Caceres will watch the wingers, with the two cms in front then they can afford to push out wide, obviously the ball can only be on one side so only one has to push out whilst the other remains at CB, mark the winger tightly allowing him no space or room to drive at, force him out wide and keep his crosses to a minimum. The 'ohter CB who hasnt gone to meet his winger will sti along side Skrtel watching any other danger coming into the area.

Palombo is the main DM, he will just stop the AM becoming a threat, hard but fair in the challenge make hhim very wary of holding on to the ball for any length of time, stop him dictating play and force him into silly passes, Lucho will pick up and spread it about, his passing at times is magical and his vision exceptional so will look to pick out the wingers or those in front, will follow his pass and always make himself available for the ball..Sit alongside Palombo when defending and watch the 2nd AM. Capable of scoring from range so have a go..

Monty in front of them will drop deep when he has to and pick the ball up, looking for him and Lucho to run this game, will work very hard and run down everything to help his defenders out, he leads by example as the new team captain..Push it out to Osman and Sandro and go out wide or push up to support the front two. Watch the DM and get onto him quickly.

Sandro and Osman are very important, they will have to get up and down to support defence and attack, when defending, they will chase back, if caceres has come out to meet a winger then Sandro will push inside to watch others or the RB if pushing forward, Osman will do the same on the other side, if they need to double up then so be it. When attacking get up the line looking for the ball from the CMs and try and get the ball into the CFs as quickly as poss, one twos with those inside to try and get beyond the FB or pass and move inside to get a shot in.

Morata in a free role, he is a young lad full of enthusiasm, and will want to show caretaker manager Jimmy Calderwood on loan from Chelsea what he can do, run the line movinf left and right to drag players away to give Negredo more space, or when the ball is up and at Negredos feet get beyond him looking for a pass. Support the wingers when out wide and go round them if need be to take away the FB to allow Sandro/Osman more room. If Monty or Lucho put in a high ball to Negredo time runs into box for his flick ons or lay offs.

Negredo is a machine in front of goal, give him a chance and he will most likely stick it in the back of the net. Will get plenty chances for this as the players behind him will get him into areas so he can shoot, move around with Morata, taking markers with them to allow space for others to move into and really make a messof the Wigan defence. Morata supporting so if he cant go himself look to get the youngster in or indeed the wingers.

Captain:- Montolivio
Penalties:- Negredo
Freekicks:- Lucho
Corners:- Osman/Sandro

Subs:-
Losing
65:- By one, Lens for Osman, By two Sandro to LB, Caceres to RB - 4-2-3-1 and Jese on for Palombo to go LW and Lens on for Osman to RW
75:- Toivonen for Morata
80:- if one sub still available, Praet for Morata

Winning
70 Mins:- Rolfes for Palombo - fresh legs to go v the AM
75 Mins:- Toivonen for Negredo
80 Mins:- 4-5-1 - van der hoorn for Morata

mignolet
vd hoorn-alderweireld-skrtel-caceres
osman-monty-rolfes-lucho-sandro
toivonen

drawing
70 Mins - Praet for Morata
75 Mins - Lens for Osman
80 Mins - Toivonen for Negredo

reds

GK - Rudd for Morata
DF - Van der Hoorn for Morata
CM - Van der Hoorn for Morata 4-4-1
WG - Morata shift out wide
FW - one up top


posted on 5/4/13

80:- if one sub still available, Praet for Morata

Edit

80:- if one sub still available, Praet for Negredo and swap with Toivonen

posted on 5/4/13

Pompey vs Everton 4-3-3:

------------------------Zieler
---Carvajal---Howedes-Bonucci----Luke Shaw
------Sebastian Rode---------Fellaini
-----------------------Toni Kroos
---Mario Gotze-----------------------El Shaarawy
-----------------------Lewandowski

Subs: Ginter, Criscito, Danilo, James Rodriguez, Moutinho, Icardi, Matic


Formation: 4-3-3 (Changing into a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-2-1)
Freekicks: Mario Gotze
Penalties: Lewandowski
Corners: Toni Kroos (Bonucci comes up)
Captain: Howedes


Game Plan + Defence: We will start off in a 4-3-3 formation, relying on Carvajal and Shaw to do what they do best, and really attack the flanks, with Mario Gotze and El Shaarawy playing in a Milan-style front 3, drifting inside, allowing space for the FB's. Carvajal especially, must look to get those fantastic crosses into the penalty are, where Lewandowski can launch himself at the ball, or where El Shaarawy will be lurking. On the other side, Luke Shaw is very fast, and is a terrific dribbler, so he must look to take on his man, and venture into the Everton half as much as possible, and look to play short 1-2's with the likes of Fellaini and Kroos. Both of these Fullbacks must come back at all times, to prevent Everton's pacy side from hurting us on the counter. Alongside them, Howedes and Bonucci are a strong a pairing as any. They are a real force to be reckoned with, and whilst Howedes isn't fastest, he is extremely good in the air, and a brilliant leader at the back, and he must position himself well at every set piece, marking the attacker that likes to make difficult runs to the back post. Bonucci on the other hand, will tackle the tall men, or those good in the air, as Bonucci leave's no victims in that territory. He must also use his long legs as an asset to take the ball away from the toes of attackers, but must stay clean. Both of our CB's are strictly told to keep their hands out of their way, and to control their tackles, and not go lunging in on forwards giving away cheap freekicks. Bonucci is also a great passer of the ball, so must not be afraid to step into midfield, and caress the ball all he likes, as long as risky passes/back passes are prevented. Neither of our defenders must be afraid to clear the ball long when in danger, but generally, we will look to pass the ball out of defence, like you see in all 4-3-3's.

Moving on from defence, we will be playing a lovely mix of midfielders in our central 3. On his debut, Sebastian Rode will be the most defensive of the lot, pulling all the strings from central midfield. His excellent vision, and eye of the needle passes will help unlock Everton's defence, as we look to play in Gotze and El Shaarawy, whilst Gotze and El must drop back to receive short passes, before passing it on again. As he is a natural DM, Sebastian Rode must be wary of stepping forward without protection, as we can get out done on the counter, but he will be looking to always get the ball rolling, and sometimes clip those 40 yard passes over the top for Lewandowski, who is an expert in controlling, and holding the ball. Alongside him is our box-to-box midfield enforcer Maruoane Fellaini, who will start deep, but later go on to form an attacking triangle with Kroos:

---------Sebastian Rode
----Toni Kroos------Fellaini

If we are lacking creativity in AM. However, Fellaini must not neglect defensive duties, and his immense power and presence must combine with his pressing ability to always win the ball back when we lose it. Fellaini offers great drive from midfield, and his powerful shots are an added bonus to us. His passing is always accurate, and he must look to supply Gotze and El with sly passes and through balls, to try and find a way in behind Eveton's defence. Ahead of him, Toni Kroos will be playing almost AM, but must also help out defensively, and when we are under pressure, we must revert to a 4-3-2-1:


------Rode-Kroos--Fellaini
Gotze---------------------El Shaarawy


As this will bring more stability to the midfield, and can contain Everton's attacks down the centre of the pitch. However, Kroos' role is crucial to our team. He is the one that brings all the flair to the table and with superb passing skills and quick thinking ability, his main aim will be to slip in one of our 3 forwards. If there comes a time when the ball breaks to him, he must use his silky feet to slip away from defenders and find space, and he must not forget that he will almost always have support in Fellaini. All midfielders should be able to cover our Fullback's runs, so if Shaw is caught out, we must rely on Fellaini to move into his position, and cover for him, and same with Rode on the other side. This will ensure that we will always have our full backs cover

Up ahead, Mario Gotze and El Shaarawy start in the Inside forward roles of a 4-3-3, with strict instructions to revert to a 4-2-3-1 when we need depth:


--------------Rode--------Fellaini
--Mario Gotze-----Toni Kroos-----El Shaarawy


This will make us more threatening in the wide areas, and give’s us natural width, if we need it. It will also conjure up more space for Kroos to thrive off, where he has time to spot runs and passes, whilst also giving our FB’s a break from all that running up and down. However, if we need to attack Everton centrally, our 2 inside men must look to come back inside with Kroos dropping back a notch, allowing our two forwards to confuse opposition defenders and create up a great understanding with the 3 CM’s. Mario Gotze has brilliant dribbling skills, and very quick feet, and he must look to turn away from oppressors when he has the chance, before using his brilliant vision to find a Portsmouth shirt. His brilliant versatility means we cover almost every position in the left-central area of the pitch, as Gotze likes to come inside, but doesn’t mind going by the touchline and drifting inside like most inside forwards. He must also look to get some brilliant crosses onto the heads of Lewandowski, or the feet of El Shaarawy, but also should look to set up Kroos/Fellaini, who will no doubt be lurking just outside the box, for a volley or long shot. On the other side, Stephan El Shaarawy is a brilliant finisher, and he loves to take on his man, whilst he’s always reliable when it comes to making runs off the last man. His rapid pace must see him chase the ball every time it breaks loose, whilst his lethal runs will always be a danger to Everton. He is also a genius at winning penalties, and must look to trick his way into the box using a wide range of skills to frighten the defence. His brilliant link up play with Lewandowski will see the 2 combining well, as El Shaarawy is fantastic at finding his man, whilst Lewandowski's passing is extremely good for a striker. If any chance falls to SES, he must take it, as his finishing is a brilliant asset, and he must always be a mirror to Gotze, when it comes to formation, as soon as we revert to a 4-3-2-1, he and Gotze must go wide and stay wide, cutting/drifting in only when our two fullbacks are ready to run into space. Likewise, when we change to a 4-2-3-1, they will both automatically hug the touchline, cutting in only when they have support.

NOTE: El Shaarawy and Gotze will start off as Inside forwards, but as soon as we do a formation switch, they will act as wingers, before reverting as we do

Up front, Lewandowski is the dream striker to play alongside in. A 4-3-3, as not only does he drop back, but he attacks every ball in the box. Our 3 forwards must look to combine at every opportunity. Lewadnowski must also look to to finish off every chance that falls his way, and he is brilliant in the air, so must outmuscle the defenders, when it comes to taking crosses of Carvajal and Gotze. He will rely on his quick thinking, positioning, Technical ability and Finishing Prowess and look to crumble the Everton defence, with his brilliant knack of finding the back of the net


Subs:

On 60mins: James > El Shaarawy, offers more energy and buzz, and can cause real problems for Everton as he is 2 footed and fits into all 3 systems

On 60mims: Moutinho > Fellaini, Moutinho is more deeper, and less attack minded, so will offer more stability, as well as great vision and technique

On 75mins: Mauro Icardi > Kroos, 4-4-2:

----------------Rode------Moutinho
---Mario Gotze----------------------James Rod
--------------Lewandowski--Icardi

This has the perfect balance in Midfield, and two strikers who complement each other brilliantly. Icardi is very good at flicking balls on with his head, and his finishing is extremely good, so must look to attack each ball that comes in the box and link up well with Lewandowski

posted on 5/4/13

chelsea

-------------------Baumann------------------
Lahm-----Kompany-----Subotic-----Baines
-------------Khedira-----A.Vidal-------------
Hamsik------------Cesc-------------Neymar
------------------R.Lukaku-------------------

Trapp, Chedjou, Jones, Navas, Mkhitaryan, Sissoko, Benteke

Baumann is a top young keeper, great shot stopper and instills confidence in the back 4. Always shouting and keeping them right. Off his line quickly to shut down strikers to reduce their angles. Quick kicks/throws to release forwards or if need to hold on and wait till everyone getting back.

Lahm and Baines are quite attack minded, but as I always stress only one attacks at a time, supporting the wingers by either going outside to make an extra man to take the fullback away to make more room for the winger, or cut inside making an extra man in the middle, both have useful shots so are not afraid to have a go. Defending then they must keep the wingers quiet, dont dive in and keep them to the outside, the RW likes to cut in so Lahm must be aware of this and make sure he is kept quiet. Baines also on the other side, keep the winger to the outside and away from the danger area. Nothing silly, clear the lines..Kompany this time is given the man marking role, keep the CF quiet and that is a massive goal threat out of the game, match his runs and always keep an eye on him even if we are attacking, so if they get a quick break Kompany is there to stop him, stop him early and dont allow him the time or space to get his shot away. Kompany up for corners so Subotic keeps an eye on CF when he is up field. Subotic sits as a spare defender, he watches any other danger coming through or if the CF breaks free he is their to stop him. Clear all danger early, up for headers and power away, no messing at the back today!

Khedira is the defensive midfielder, he sits just in front of the two Centre Backs, allowing more freedom to Fabregas and Vidal, he watches there most attack minded central midfielder, so Khedira must get onto him before he starts horsing through the middle and into dangerous positions. Be onto him early and do not allow him to dictate play and spray the passes about.
Vidal is is my destroyer in the middle of the park, closes down everything in his way. Will sit alongside Khedira when they come forward and move up beside Cesc when attacking, so he will be up and down supporting defence and attack, when they have he will sit alongside Khedira stopping there danger men coming through, he always gets into the face of his opposite number, attacking he will pick the ball up and move it forward, either out wide or through the middle, he will always follow his pass making himself available to others so they can move into space for him to pick out, a fantastic shot so will have a pop from range if the opportunity arises. Cesc is more attack minded and will support Aguero as much as he can, with Khedira and Vidal controlling the middle Cesc will be given the freedom to roam, when attacking he will get himself about and into positions of danger to them, will always look for the ball and pass and move at all times, get it out wide or again through to Lukaku and move up, even get ahead of Lukaku looking for lay offs or knock downs and look to get in on goal. Will drop deep when they have and keep an eye on the DM or CBs moving forward and look to stop them from becoming a danger.

Neymar and Hamsik provide the width today, Hamsik is quick and skillful and will run at his marker looking to get his way into the box, will use Cesc, Vidal and Lukaku etc to pass and move into the box, when Lahm is supporting he will watch him drive pass and decide wether to play the ball down he line or wait for his marker to go with lahm allowing him more room to cut inside. With Hazard likely to play LW Hamsik is more defnsive than navas hence he plays to try and support Lahm as much as he is needed, Neymar very dangerous and a goal threat, he will go out, enjoy himself, dont do it all by himself and always look to bring others into the game if he is heavily marked. Pass and move or like hamsik get to the bye line and cross the ball into dangerous areas..Support Lukaku as much as possible and look to get some shots in. Especially Neymar who will come of the left and shoot with the right..Both will watch their fullbacks when they have and track there runs, Lukaku is a huge goal threat, the front 3 today will always be moving about causing confusion in the Newcastle back line as they will move about, drifting inside and outside, there markers will be moved about and torn to pieces, by doing this, this drags centre halves and fullbacks all about the box so will make room for Cesc and Vidal to run into, even Lahm and Baines could find room to have a shot at goal, quick movement and always on his toes, Lukaku will find himself getting plenty chances so he must take them, good with both feet and can shoot from acute angles..If he cant then set up those around him as he is a powerful man and not easily shrugged off the ball, defenders will find it hard to keep control of him.

Quick, dynamic passing from the team, one-twos to get round there markers, neat triangles, get to the bye-line and cross in, pressurise them into silly passes and maintain this for the entire match, we want to go through...

Captain:- Kompany
Penalties:- Neymar
Free Kicks:- Fabregas
Corners:- Wingers

Subs:-

Losing
65 Mins:- Navas > Hamsik - More direct
75 Mins:- Benteke > Lukaku
80 Mins:- Mkhitaryan > Vidal push further up beside Cesc

Winning
70 mins:- Benteke > Lukaku
80 Mins:- Sissoko > Cesc - same position but want to track back more if needed

Drawing
70 Mins:- Navas > Hamsik, Benteke > Lukaku

Reds
GK - Trapp > Hamsik - Cesc move wide
DF - Chedjou for Hamsik as above
CM - Cesc drops back
WG - Cesc moves wide
CF - Cesc moves up

posted on 5/4/13

Sunderland vs. M Utd

-------------------Marchetti------------------
Uchida-----Savic-----Benatia-----Enrique
-------------Carrick-----Nainnggolan--------
Ayew------------Fernandinho------Konoplyanka
--------------------Kiessling-------------------

Subs: Smithies, Vrsaljko, Amorebieta, Nordtveit, Elm, Diego, Ilicic

We are facing a strong Manchester Utd side today, and therefore have decided to play counter-attacking football. We have a strong enough defence, in conjunction with a hard working midfield to limit the space in which they can play through constant pressure and will look to break at speed with direct, quick passing in order to catch them out with too many players having pushed forwards. Content not to have the ball, we will stifle their play and absorb any pressure they create before breaking forwards at speed with direct, quick and fluid play.

Marchetti is a keeper whose experience gives him an edge and he knows that in this league debut he has a point to prove. He will be looking to exert confidence through claiming any balls into the box, and with his shot stopping ability will repel any efforts they have on goal. In order to launch us on the counter, he will distribute it quickly with good throws and kicking to players who are in space.

This a pacey yet strong defence that has both experience and game awareness in abundance. With our counter-attacking style, they will have a realtively deep line to hold, as we snuffle out there creative impoetous with the pressure of our three man midfield, with the back 4 mopping up any balls that are attempted by them. Benatia will have the role of marshalling the defence, and marking their main striker whilst Savic will track any extra runners into the box. Enrique and Uchida are going to stick to their respective sides; trying to take the wingers out of the game by limiting the space that they have to play in through sticking to them. They must remember that their primary role is to defend, and in doing so they will show their man to the crowded center of the pitch and thus out of any danger. However, when counter-attacking, due their pace and attacking intent will mean they can join our counter's at speed (only one of them, so as not to leave us exposed) and get on the overlap in order to create space for others/get the ball into the box. As a general rule of thumb, the defensive line will be quite deep - around the edge of the box - to allow little space for the opposition to attack into.

We are effectively playing a three man midfield. Comfortable at AM, CM and DM, we have listed Fernandinho at AM as when we break forwards on the counter he should be the most advanced of this trio. He will be looking to get in and around the box, providing another option and being the main link up with Kiessling when he holds the ball up and thus key to bringing other players into the move. However, when we are defending he is to drop to the centre of the park, and help pressurise and cut out the creative impoteous of their creative players alongside Nainnggolan and Carrick. It will mean that their creative players in behind the striker have no room to find 'pockets' of space and will provide the basis of our midfield, meaning that we can break forward in numbers. Nainnggolan will be the box-to-box midfielder breaking from deep on the counter, and putting in a shift all over the pitch; whilst Carrick will be a 'quarterback' as our deep lying play maker, connecting the defensive and attacking phases together with his pinpoint passing which will create chances for us through finding players who are in space due to their likely attacking nature. of passing is very good, and he can draw players into him before picking out the man in space. This ability to draw players in and pass quickly and precisely is key to the 'transistion' phase of us counter attacking. This trio in midfield is perfectly suited to a direct, counter-attacking style of football and with substitutes coming on after a period of time they will not get excessively tired.

Ayew is playing on the RW today, as Adrian can not play against his parent club, however he is just as talented out here as he is on the left. The key for both the Ghanaian and Konoplyanka (who has a point to prove and place to cement in the team) is to provide options when we counter with runs into space that can be picked out by our direct and fast passing. When on the ball, having found space, they should look to run to the byline and get the ball into the box, towards Kiessling or the onrushing Fernandinho. They should look to link up with the big German when he is holding the ball up; providing options and movement to create space for both themselves and others.

Kiessling is the target man, and the focus point of our counter attacks. Ideally; we will be looking to get the ball to him in the box. He has good ball control skills, and thus combined with his size can deal with aerial crosses or those drilled in towards his feet. He should occasionally look to hold the ball up to bring others into the move, and link up with the trio behind him however his primary role as the focal point of our attack is to do what he has been doing since he came to Sunderland - stick the ball in the back of the net. Even in defence, he should look to push up the pitch, his presence being a nusiance for them as this will create the space for us to counter attack into.

Subs:

After 70 mins: Elm > Nainnggolan, fresh legs in midfield.
After 75 mins if drawing/losing: Diego > Fernandinho; trequarista. Get forwards more and attack. Fresh legs.
After 75 mins if winning: Nordtveit > Fernandinho; move to DM. Play as Anchor Man breaking up the play. Fresh legs.

After 80 mins if losing/drawing: Ilicic > Konoplyanka, can cause trouble by cutting inside.
After 80 mins if winning: Vrsaljko > Uchida

Captain: Benatia
Set Pieces: Ayew
Penalties: Kiessling

If we recieve a red card, same style and replace Konoplyanka with a like for like replacement for the man sent off with Ayew choosing to work whichever flank he desires.

posted on 5/4/13

Malafeev
Anyukov Wollscheid Ogbonna Antonini
Kaka Essien Arteta
Gabby Torres Robinho

Subs – Vorm, Mexes, Botia, Allen, Holzhauser, Remy, Pienaar

Game Plan – For todays game i would like us to keep the ball on the ground playing short passes among each other. This will help us keep possession and control the game. They are a strong team so if we for one second give them the opportunity to keep the ball for long lengths they will punish us. I would like our attacks to intersect among each other by every so often changing positions in order to open up space in their defence. I would like most the midfield and the full backs to roam around the pitch.

Positional Tactics:

Malafeev 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.

Anyukov should play as a wing back. This means when we have the ball he should play as a supporting role to our wingers and midfielders. He must go up to add to the pressure against their defence. He should stay out wide to create a crossing option and he will try and drill the ball into the centre. I want him to bring the other defenders towards him in order to open up space for Gabby to take advantage of. While defending Anyukov 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. Antonini should act as a full back and not go up as much as Anyukov will. This is because we want to create some stability at the back. They will be dangerous on the counter so if we 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.

Wollscheid 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 Wollscheid away and allow space to occur then he should temporarily leave him and try and trap him offside. Because Anyukov will be attacking he should act as help temporarily to prevent players cutting into the box. 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. Ogbonna 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. For Wollscheid I would like him to be up in the opposition’s box for corners and free kicks. Ogbonna should stay just outside the box before the free kick/corner is taken and then run in round the back when it is.

Essien 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. Essien 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 Essien 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.

Arteta 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. Kaka should use his pace and strength to make runs into the box and opening up space for Torres. 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 want Gabby 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. He should work with Anyukov to create space in the opposition’s box. Use Anyukov out wide to bring their full back to him so Gabby can run into the box with less challenge. If that doesn’t work then he should bring the full back to him and then use Anyukov. When we’re off the ball I want him to make runs back to help protect the defence by helping Anyukov cover their full back. They should both pressurise him to make a mistake or remove the ball from that area. Gabby 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 Robinho to do the same as Hulk in this case.

I would like Gabby and Robinho 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.

Torres 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 Arteta, Kaka 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.

Subs

If losing

Remy for Robinho – 70’
Pienaar for Arteta – 80’

If winning

Allen for Arteta – 70’
Holzhauser for Kaka – 75’

If drawing

Same as Winning

Captain: Arteta
Vice Captain: Anyukov
Penalties: Gabby
Free Kicks: Kaka
Corners: Robinho

comment by Robin (U3899)

posted on 5/4/13

Marquinhos - 1 weeks
Mathieu Valbuena - 2 weeks
Gonzalo Higuian - 2 weeks
Ivanovic - 2 weeks
---------------------Szczesny
Zabaleta----Godin-----Boateng----Kolarov-
----------------Mikel-----Milner-------------
----------------------Oscar-------------------
Walcott-----------------------------Hazard
---------------------Llorente----------------
Subs:
Ali Al Habsi
Serge Aurier
Juan Jesus
Walter Gargano
Koke
Filip Djuricic
Andre-Pierre-Gignac

Captain: Pablo Zabaleta
Free Kicks: Eden Hazard
Penalties: Eden Hazard
Corners: Hazard (from left, inswing) Milner (From right, outswing)
----------
Game Plan: A slight change in formation today. Oscar will play deeper than normal, he wouldn’t have started this game if Valbuena was fit. The reason for this is Chelsea’s threat from central. Oscar will look to close the defensive midfielders of Chelsea down as soon as they get the ball, using his excellent stamina. He will look to stop Vidal from playing, if we manage this we are a third way there. Also with Oscar playing deep, we want three numbers in central midfield all the time so the wingers are really freed up.

Another slight change to the system is, is that the wingers are given even more license than before to attack. Hazard will have a lot of space on the LW, as it will be mostly Hazard vs Lahm, as the opposition winger will most likely always drift infield and he will not track back much. Walcott and Hazard will track back if their opposition full back attack but I want them to be aware of the opportunity to counter attack and exploit the space left behind them. It will mostly always be Walcott vs Baines, I feel Walcott could win this battle with his pace and direct running. We don’t mind if the opposition instruct our wingers down the line, this is perfectly playing into our hands and we have a huge, clever striker up top in Llorente to target.

Milner will use his excellent stamina, and his ability to cover ground quickly all over the pitch today. We need him to help our full backs out, especially Kolarov as he will be closest to him. We may find it easier to retain the ball on that side if Milner and Kolarov double up on the player as the opposition player is not a natural winger.

I want my team to attack efficiently. Through the centre, Oscar will use his drive, stamina, dribbling abilities to put momentum into our attack. He will also pass the ball intelligently, using their both long range passing and short passing. Look for the threat of Walcott on the RW, especially if Chelsea play a high line. Hazard will look to be a mix bag. He will take on his winger, but has the licence to drift in also, interchanging positions with Oscar, and allowing the overlap for Kolarov. I feel we have enough attacking threat today to win the game.
-------------
Szczesny will use his height to collect crosses, allowing our defence to keep in shape, if we have a chance to counter from there Szczesny uses his quick distribution to the wingers. He must command his area. Come for crosses when he is at least 80% sure he can get them. He will pass the ball out unless he is 80% sure we will not lose the ball when kicking it long as we want to keep possession as much as possible in this game.

Zabaleta & Kolarov must not give the Opposition wingers any time on the ball. If the opportunity presents then they should attack. If one of the full back attacks then the other one MUST stay back so we have 3 defenders back at all times along with Mikel.

Boateng and Godin, A good mix of power, pace, aerial ability and composure on the ball, allows us to be commanding at the back and limit the amount of opportunities for the opposition. Boateng will control the back four and make sure everybody is doing their job correctly by using his excellent leadership skills. Boateng and Godin will stay close to each other not allowing CHELSEA to open up space. Boateng looks to defend the first ball coming towards our defence, using his reading of the game to get there before the striker and clear, he'll use his great tackling to shut him down around the area and then look to get the ball back. Godin stays in position when Boateng does this covering the remaining space, he will be able to clear the second ball if it gets beyond Boateng.

Mikel sits in front of the defence and try and break down attacks and start new ones for us. He will be strong in their tackles and always play it simple when on the ball. Milner will be his partner who will play close to him when defending. He has the responsibility in helping out the full backs also.

Oscar will be our advanced playmaker. He has the ability to pick out the cutest of passes, which is just what we need with players like Llorente, Hazard, Walcott in the team. He has to manipulate the play and find these players in free space. Oscar is also there to support Llorente. When needed he will drop into midfield and make it tight.

Walcott and Hazard will be the wingers, and both should provide us natural width I want them to put the opposition full backs under pressure. They will play in an attacking role. They must keep the ball if there is no support and wait for players to arrive. They may also go for long range shots as both are good at them. This will also make the opposition full backs not attack making our job in defence easier. Furthermore they both have the ability to do that and are very good at it. Hazard is instructed to come on his right foot sometimes and take a ‘shock’ shot, catching the keeper out. Look for Llorente’s runs also.

Llorente will lead the line and hold the ball up for us as we may be defending the majority of the time. He will wait for the runs of Oscar, Walcott, Hazard to arrive. He will also look to make runs in behind, for our midfielders to feed him through. He has a big game today and must produce. From set pieces he will also provide a threat.

If winning/drawing anytime after 70mins – Koke on for Walcott, Gargano on for Oscar. See the game out, go slightly more defensive and counter attack with Milner RM, Gargano and Mikel DM, Koke infront.

If Losing 70mins – Koke on for Milner, 4-1-2(AM)-2(W)-1
80mins – Gignac on for Mikel, Djuricic for Godin, Oscar to play deep and illustrate the play for us

--------Zabaleta---Boateng----Kolarov
-----------------------Oscar
-----Walcott-----Djuricic----Koke---Hazard
--------------Gignac----Llorente

If Keeper gets sent off then AM comes off for keeper on bench
In this case: Oscar> Al Habsi 4-2-2-2
If Defender gets sent off then AM comes off for Defender on bench
In this case: RB – Aurier on for Oscar, CB, Juan on for Oscar, LB, Aurier on for Oscar with Zabaleta going LB
If DM gets sent off (Mikel/Milner) then AM for DM on bench
In this case: Oscar off for Gargano
If st gets sent off, the AM for St on bench
In this case: Oscar for Gignac

posted on 5/4/13

-------------------------Friedel---------------------
Debuchy--------Kaboul------Rami----------Ekotto
------------------Gustavo----Strootman------------
Menez----------------Marchisio-------------D.Costa
------------------------Huntelaar--------------------

Subs; Amos, Holtby, Caulker, Pjanic, Destro, Defour, Cisse

Game plan:
My team are at home and we need to win this to keep up with our European challenge. Arsenal are a strong team and we expect them to come as us at time but my team will be organised and will pressure them all over the pitch causing them to make a mistake, then we can hit them on the break with the pace in our team. The balance of the team looks good with the midfield 3, all of my team will be putting a shift in and give 100%. The team will look to play simple passes and will always start from the back, if the midfield run out of options they shouldn’t be afraid to start again from the back. The team will look to keep the ball on the floor as much as possible as we are not the tallest team and this may give the other team the advantage. We will look to play wider with the wide players keeping the options open for the team. When my team are crossing the ball drilled crosses will be preferred.
Arsenals weakness will be their attacking full backs and the two wingers I have put out can punish this when we launch a counter attack look for the wings especially when their full backs are out of position.
When it comes to the opposition we will look to close them down quickly and give them no time on the ball, always trying to make them rush their passes and cause mistakes. We will look to disrupt the tempo of the game and ideally we will want dictate the tempo ourselves. We will show their wide players onto their weaker foot and into the corner.
<b> Friedel:</b>
Friedel is a decent keeper and he will look to demand his area, he will collect/punch crosses and he will collect loose balls that come into the box. He will use a big voice if he wants the ball left by the defenders.

<b>Debuchy and Ekotto: </b>
(Attacking) – They will look to receive the ball from the keeper and start attacks from the back but I don’t want them to hoof the ball they will look to pass the ball out. When the team are attacking I would like both players to push up and provide an option for the wide men. I would also like them to overlap to also help the wide men and put in a decent crosses. Both players however will need to make sure if they commit to an attack that they can get back if the opposition launch a counter attack if they are not confident then I don’t want them to push up as much.
(Defending) When these players are defending I will ask them to talk to the wide men infront of them if they need cover or help. I will ask for these players to stick tight to the opposition wide men and to show them onto their weaker foot to weaken the cross and guide them into the corner and try to concede a throw in rather than a throw in. If a CB commits to an attack I would like these players to cover and holes in the defense that need to be covered.

<b>Kaboul and Rami:</b>
(Attacking) – Both of the defenders will look to collect the ball from the goalkeeper and they will look to start attacks by passing the ball into the midfield however if there is no opening in midfield they should look for the long ball (preferably out wide) or they should not be shy to keep it in the defense and encourage players to make openings for them. For corners both players should go up and one or both of the full backs will cover.
(Defending) – Kaboul will mark the main striker he will stick close to him and will use his power to beat the player in the air, he will show him onto his weaker foot and look to dispossess him without giving away any silly fouls.
Rami will take the second striker or he will provide cover for Kaboul and will clean up loose balls. If he is marking another striker I would also like him to make the player play on his weaker foot and show him away from goal.
<b> Gustavo and Strootman </b>
(Attacking) – Both of these players will be playing the deeper role in the team and they will both look to spread the play over the pitch when they are position however they will look to play it simply and not over complicate their passes and wont play still passes that will cost us possession.
Strootman will be the player to push up if we are struggling to create many chance where as Gustavo will not and will Stay back, Strootman will be used as the box to box midfielder and will need to work hard.
(Defending) – Both players will need to close the opposition down quickly and give them no space looking to dispossess them and start quick attacks when they do they will need to rush Arsenal this is important that they do this!! They will look to track the runs of the oppositions and Gustavo must make sure they are picking up the most creative Arsenal player in the midfield.

<b> Marchisio </b>
Marchisio can finally be given the free role in the team he will look to create attacks, join attacks, get into the box when he can, collect the ball and always look to make something happen. The free role will enable him to move anywhere on the pitch to collect the ball and make things happen this will make him harder to mark aswell.
When we are defending he needs to close the opposition down as he is not afraid of putting in a tackle and is more than capable of dispossessing the oppsotion and breaking at pace so he will close the opposition down and when we win the ball back look to get into good positions to receive the ball so he can start attacks.

<b>Menez and D.Costa:</b>
(Attacking) – Menez and Costa will look to stick to the wings when not in possession they will look to receive the ball all the time and these two will need to put a shift in. They will look to take on their defenders and get to the byline and put crosses in for the strikers, as said above drilled crosses will be better for our players to try and get onto the end of. If they are feeling more confident both players can cut inside and take on the defenders and lay the ball off or have a shot, they will be asked to mix it up and not make their play to predictable. They will use the full backs to create space in behind the defenders for them to run into. If our team win possession they need to look to run into space to create a counter attack
(Defending) – Both players will need to put a shift in defensively also they will look to track back the runs of the Arsenal full backs. They will look to help out our full backs by doubling up on the winger if the opposition full backs don’t commit to the attack. If our full backs commit too far forward they will also look to cover the full back positions if needed.

<b>Huntelaar: </b>
(Attacking) - Huntelaar is a clinical finisher and will not be afraid to run at defenders and unleash a shot or two. He will be in the box when the crosses come into the box to try and get a tap in.
Marchisio will be having the free role so will be able to join Huntelaar and Huntelaar can use Marchisio to make space to create chances.


Subs:
If winning 80th min
Caulker for Strootman – 5 at the back and hang on for the win.
Holtby for D.Costa - extra energy to see out the game.


If Losing 75th min
Cisse for Strootman – 4-4-2 Marchisio drop back deeper and be the box to box two up top.
Destro for D.Costa – Pace on the wings.

posted on 5/4/13

--------------------------Adler------------------------
-----VDW------Lovren----Dominguez------Angel--
-----------------Mavuba----Romeu-------------------
--Callejon-------------Martin-----------Gaitan------
------------------------Lisandro------------------------

Subs: McCarthy, Inkoom, Tasci, Olsson, Medel, Bernard, Rudnevs.

Game Plan: Away to Tottenham will not be easy at the bottom of the table but we need the 3 points in the battle for the survival. We will look to control the game with fluid passing and quick movement to split the defence open.

Adler will command his area and his defence. He will communicate to the back 4 all the time and will collect anything he can do in the box. He will distribute well to start attacks off quickly.

VDW and Angel will be our full backs. Angel will be our left back, he will the more defensive of the 2 full backs, he will stay in position no matter where the RW goes and he will also show him on the outside away from goal. He will get the strong tackle in and never let him inside. VDW will do the same defensive duties against his man but he will be a little bit more advanced, he will look to support the winger and sometimes overlap providing that the winger covers. He will get plenty of crosses in towards the powerful Lisandro as well as looking to play the ball inside towards goal.

Lovren and Dominguez will be our CB's. Lovren will be the man who marks the striker. He will mark him tightly, not allowing him any space to move and twist away into good areas. If he does try to turn, he must make sure he is tackled hard so he feels more threatened every time Lovren comes in for a tackle. He needs to strong and powerful and mostly commanding with headers making sure he wins what he can. Dominguez will be our sweeper. He will sit in behind the defence that is marking and sweep up after everyone. he has good clearing abilities with strong heading power as well as being able to hit a ball 60 yard up field, which is his job there, no messing about unless we are comfortable to play out from the back, he needs to communicate to Adler all the time.

Mavuba will be our DM. He will offer protection to our back 4 and will mark the AM. He will stand off his man and stay in position until he gets into our final third where Mavuba becomes more active and stops him from playing the passes and dictating the play. Romeu will support Mavuba in there. He will stop any midfield runners by tracking back well. When we have possession he will try and start moves off from deep, y giving it into the more attacking players but staying back in case of counter attacks. He will look to spread the play or give the ball into the man in the most space.

Callejon and Gaitan will be our wingers. They will also act as our inside forwards, as well as basic wingers. When they are inside forwards, they will look to link up with Lisandro and give him an option when he holds up the ball by coming inside to play an AM 3 for the attack or making moves around the back of the defence to get in behind. They will also be basic wingers. Looking for space in the wide area to have a run on the full backs, by using their pace to drive at the defence and then by gaining momentum to take the ball past them and either win a free kick or take them on and put quality crosses into the box for Lisandro to attack and maybe a cut back for Martin. I want both of them to have shots though.

Martin will also act as our inside forward. He will always try and support Lisandro when he holds up the bal. We need him to dictate the play and look to spread the passes and open up the defence as often as possible so we can get goals. he needs to get plenty of shots in at goal as well as creating as many chances as possible.

Lisandro will be our big powerful striker. We will look to give balls into his feet a lot of the time so he can hold it up and link with our more attacking minded 3 in behind him as inside forwards. The wingers will be making runs so he needs to sometimes play little flicks to open up the defence and then to get in the box to look to win the header. He will look to set players up with his back to goal and then he needs to get in the box to test the defenders and use his power to win the headers against them. he needs to give them CB's a torrid time by winning as many headers as he can and using his power to wear them down.

Subs:

If Winning (65 mins):

Martin Off - On Medel - Give more strength in midfield to hold them out and support the other 2.

Lisandro Off - On Rudnevs - Change from power to pace and look to hit them on the counter attack.

If Drawing:

System and team stay's the same.

If Losing (65 mins):

Romeu off - On Rudnevs - Play with 1 DM and we want them on the back foot with pace and power up front for us.

posted on 5/4/13

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

posted on 5/4/13

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

posted on 6/4/13

---------------------------Cech
Johnson---Hummels-----Agger---Schmelzer
------------------------Denisov
-------------Schweiny--------Modric
Robben--------------------------------------Ribery
---------------------Aubameyang
Subs
Begovic, Juanfran, De Vrij, Barry, Lennon, Dembele, Gomez

Tactics
An attack-minded 4-3-3 formation with emphasis on keeping possession and playing with width to stretch the opposition.

Keeper
When distributing the ball, he should look to keep it simple and play the percentage pass. At crosses and set pieces, should look to punch rather than attempt any catches with an element of risk.

Full Backs
When going forward, the wingers will be playing a mostly wide game so should look to play behind the wingers, giving them an option to play it safely back if there is no forward option, and they should also look to provide width if the wingers cut inside. When defending, they should look to just track the wingers and aim to keep them on their wrong foot and block any crosses.

Centre Backs
Hummels will compete for the aerial balls, and Agger will look to collect the 2nd ball, when the ball is on the floor, the onus is more on blocks than tackles. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they can take it forward, if not, just look to play it simple to a man in space and keep possession.

Defensive Midfielder
Inler will look to just sit in front of the back 4, looking to cover the full backs when they go forward. and when we are defending, he will track the opposition AM, only leaving him if another Midfielder is making inroads into the final third with the ball.

Centre Mids
Both are comfortable on the ball, and both have engines to last the full 90 with a high energy game, when they are on the ball both midfielders are suited to looking for a pass, but can take the ball forward if the space is there, if either man is running with the ball, they are comfortable with shooting from outside the box, so should look to test the keeper quite often. When defending, they will look to use their workrate to press the opposition midfielders when they are on the ball.

Wingers
They should look to stay as wide as possible when they receive the ball to try and stretch the defensive line and create space for midfield runners and/or Auby. When on the ball, both wingers have the ability to stay wide and put a cross in, or cut inside to try and make space for a shot, so should look to pick out which is the best option at the time, if they do cut inside, the full backs should have moved forward to occupy the touchline and provide an out ball if there is no other option. If they have taken the opposition full back out of the game, they shouldnt be afraid to go into the box, as defenders will be extra cautious to not give away a penalty, and this provides the option of just drilling a cross to Auby or a simple drag back to the CM's, who should be taking positions on the edge of the box. When the opposite winger has the ball, the winger without the ball should look to find space between the CB and full back to add an extra body for any crosses or capitalise on any defensive errors.

Striker
When defending, he should look to keep tabs on the defensive midfielder to stop any easy balls being played back to him, when attacking, he should look to hang onto the the shoulder of the last defender, looking to break any offside traps and get into 1 on 1's with the keeper, when setting up counter attacks, he should be drifting over to the left slightly.

Set Pieces
Corners - Robben and Schweiny take in swinging corners, the 2 CB's go into the box, Denisov and Schmelzer stay back to prevent counters, the CB's, Auby and Schweiny attack the ball, Johnson, Modric and the Wingers take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.

Free Kicks - For direct FK's Schweiny and Robben will shoot depending on which foot it favours. For Indirect FKs, follow the same directives for Corners

Penalties - Robben is the designated taker.

Subs

If Winning
68 mins - Dembele for Modric - Schweiny goes to DM alongside Denisov, Dembele in front of the 2, we shore the game up defensively, with Dembele looking to hustle the opposition midfielders with his fresh legs and energy, and focus on counter attacks

76 mins - Gomez and Juanfran for Auby and Robben - Juanfran goes to RW, Gomez acts as a target man and out ball if we come under too much pressure, only the front 3 venture forward, and Gomez looks to hold up the ball to either draw the foul or bring the Wingers into play.

If Losing
72 mins - Gomez for Denisov - go to 4-2-3-1 with Auby just off Gomez, and the midfield 2 looking to spray the ball to the front 4.

80 mins - Lennon and Dembele for Robben and Modric - all out attack now, pile bodies forward and get the ball forward, the full backs are pushed forward and Cech acts as a sweeper-keeper.

posted on 6/4/13

----------- Buffon
Rafael– Pepe - Evans– Filipe
------ Sandro – Gerrard
Lucas.M – Tevez ---- Reus
------------- Dzeko

Subs. Cesar, Albiol, Pirlo, Verratti, Ox, Eto’o.

An attacking 4-2-3-1. At home, and having lost to Sunderland last time we are taking no prisoners, well except the referee, we happen to have Howard Webb kitted and ready in the stadium by chance to replace him.

We want to start this game quickly, 100mph for the first 20 minutes. Don’t give Sunderland any time to settle. Closing down high up the park, get the ball and get forward. We've had two bad results in the last two games, we need to set this right.

Sunderland have a strong midfield 3, but not a midfield 3 that prefer to be in attacking positions, for this reason we’ve gone with an attacking side. Keep Sunderland deep in their own half and make it difficult for them to link the midfield and attack. We will play with lots of width and we will play quite direct.

If Sunderland were wrestlers, this would be their entry song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJL4UGSbeFg

We want to get the ball down and out wide. With Dzeko in the box and Tevez in about we have plenty of quality to aim for. Tevez will look to play just behind Tevez, getting in space between their midfield and defence. We have tons and tons and tons of quality down the wings.

Their midfield 3 have plenty energy about them and so we have gone with Gerrard ahead of Pirlo to give us more solidity at the back seeing as we’ve gone with Tevez. If things don’t go our way simply bring on Pirlo at half time. Sandro and Gerrard offer great drive through the middle.

We’ll look to defend high up the pitch. We have pace in defence to deal with any quick counters. Closing down high up the pitch for the first 20 mins but we can’t keep that up all game so will look to start closing down as soon as it reaches a midfielder after this. Force them into playing it long.

Captain: Stevieee Gerrrrard
Free Kicks: Gerrard(deep) Tevez(around box)
Pens: Gerrard
Corners: Gerrard
Simply Stevie G is the man.

We will be a danger at set pieces, Dzeko, Sandro and Pepe are all monsters. Just like monsters that hide under the bed, they will do their best to lose their marker, then when the moment is right they will make their move!

Player roles.
Buffon – Experience and quality in goals as always, organising the defence we are confident our backline will be well directed and organised. He will give confidence to the backline.

Filipe and Rafael – Have the ability to get up and down the park all day long. When one is bombing forward the other will still have license to push forward but stay reserved till the right moment. Plenty of pace to deal with their wingers.

Pepe and Evans. Pepe has the pace, aggression and ability on the ball. Evans will be strong in the air and look to be the one to challenge first off. Get the ball down and build from the back.

Sandro – Our defensive midfielder, keep things simple. Don’t allow any of their players to get between our midfield and defence. Put himself about and dominate the midfield. He’s got the power.

Gerrard – Playing the cm role. We want him to spread the play. Will offer composure and leadership in the middle of park.

Lucas.M – Pace, good control and can find the final ball. So just do that. Great opportunity for the second best Brazilian talent (after Oscar obv).

Reus – Just give him the ball.

Tevez – The main man in an attacking midfield role. Get involved in everything.

Dzeko – The big man, GET IN THE BOX. Hold the ball up, play the other players in. Just put the ball in the bloody net.

Subs.
If red card play 4-4-1, with sub coming on to make that formation possible.
If losing or drawing after 55 mins bring on Pirlo for Tevez/Dzeko. Whoever isn't doing as well.

If losing or drawing after 60 mins bring on Eto’o for Lucas.M. Attacking 4-3-3.

If losing after 80 mins bring on Ox for Sandro. Gerrard playing most defensive of mid 3.

If winning after 70 mins bring on Ox for Lucas.M. Fresh legs and pace down the right and extra cover for Rafael.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Eto’o for Tevez/Dzeko whoever isn’t playing as well. Fresh legs and pace to get in behind when the game opens up.
If winning after 85 mins bring on Verratti for Tevez/Dzeko. Playing in am role. Fresh legs to help us keep the ball and find the killer ball for Eto’o.

comment by Kanga (U3095)

posted on 6/4/13

---------------------------Hart ---------------------
Iraola----Tomkins --------Lescott ----------Monreal
------------M’Vila ------------------Cabeye ------------
Ben Arfa------------------Michu --------------------Turan
-------------------------Ba ---------------------------
Subs: Foster, Ryo, Selassie, Lamah, Granero, D.Bent ,Fer , Carroll

Hart is a vocal keeper and will command his back line.
Lescott will mark Utds main striker while Tomkins will sweep away any loose balls in the box.
Iraola and Monreal have the licence to go forward and support the attack when necessary
M’Vila will break up play .he is the enforcer in midfield, Cabeye will act as the play maker with good distribution of the ball making the team tick. The French duo will work great together.
Ben Arfa and Turan will as always attack the full backs with great pace and dribbling, whipping balls into the box or cutting inside and taking a shot so they don’t become predictable. The two can also act as inside forwards if necessary
Michu is lethal in the air and had good control of the ball. He will play behind Ba, playing him through or taking a shot from his knockdowns
Ba will use his strength and pace to bully the Brum defence. He will hold the ball up if he has little support to bring other into play. Goalscorer.










Subs if losing after 70 mins

------------------------Hart ---------------------
Iraola----Tomkins --------Lescott----------Monreal
------------ M’Vila --------------Cabeye --
Ben Arfa----------------------------------------------Lamah
--------------- ----Ba -------D.Bent------------------

D.Bent will be quicker than Michu to run at the tiring Utd defence.
Lamah brings a pit of pace into the game.
If winning after 70 mins
Fer on for Michu

posted on 6/4/13

---------------Courtois
Azpilicueta--Marrone--Dante--Marcelo
--------------Capoue---Beñat
De Bruyne----------Mata---------Villa
--------------------Cavani

Subs: Alves, N'Koulou, Asamoah, Ramires, Piazon, Martinez, Hernandez

Captain: Dante
Free Kicks: Mata/De Bruyne
Penalties: Cavani
Corners: Mata/De Bruyne

Game Plan:
We will look to play on the front foot from the off. In a great spell of form with confidence flowing we want to show that in the way we play, moving the ball at pace using our excellent passer to really open things up and create plenty of chances. Defensively we get men back behind the ball and make them play in front of us, not leaving any space, whilst pressing when we lose it high up the pitch so that we can stay on the attack.

Tactics:
Courtois will look to command his area coming to collect crosses and relieve pressure on the defence. He is a quick keeper and can come off his line at pace to deal with any striker who gets behind the CBs.

FBs are able to move forward as the attack progresses down their side, looking to help provide width and stretch the game. Azpi looks to make runs beyond De Bruyne, dragging a defender with him to open up the space for a cross from either De Bruyne or Azpi. He should also look to link with De Bruyne to help him get between CBs and FB where De Bruyne is at his most dangerous in terms of goal threat. Marcelo on the the other side can link up with Villa but switch it up by either going down the outside or moving inside, he can use his tricky footwork to open things up and create chances for himself and for team mates. Defensively they are both very quick and will look to face up to the winger, forcing them down the outside and making sure to keep close by and get a tackle in, not allowing them to come inside or to get any easy crossing chances.

Dante will be man marking the main striker and looking to deal with the first ball as we defend under pressure with numbers back. He stays close to the striker and gets tight to stop him controlling passes into him or being able to link with team mates, being very physical with him, strong in the tackle and dominant in the air. Marrone acts as a sweeper to deal with the second ball if Dante is beaten, beating any opposition to loose balls to clear danger. When we are the team on the front foot these two swap rolls with Marrone using his excellent reading of the game to get out and deal with any balls forward as the opponents look to counter, intercepting and bringing it back forward for us, using his good passing just to keep it moving. Dante will be the second line of defence to Marrone, if the ball is past Marrone, Dante gets tight to the man with the ball and forces him outwide, slowing the counter and allowing us to get men back. Both are excellent passers and should look to keep our attacks going, even spotting the chances to open the opposition up with a long ball.

Capoue will act as the DM. He stays deep in midfield and just keeps passes ticking over, not allowing our rhythm to slow down. He looks to deal with the main AM by tracking his runs and staying very tight on him, not allowing him to get on the ball and create anything. Give him no time and space to pick his pass. Beñat will be the deep lying playmaker, moving the ball from deep with his incredible range of passing and opening things up for our attackers. He can push forward as we attack and look to keep things moving, going for the killer ball when he can. He must also press in midfield and stop the opposition breaking forward when we lose it, or getting space in midfield when we are back in numbers.

Mata will be the main man in the time. He can move where he likes to get on the ball and make things happen, dropping deep to get us on the front foot quickly or moving wide to link with the wingers and FBs and help them open things up and get into the channels, whilst also dragging defenders with his runs wide, allowing Villa/De Bruyne to use that space and also allow Mata to put in some dangerous crosses. He can also get in support of Cavani, linking up and making runs off the defenders to get into space in the box. We want him controlling the game and creating the chances. De Bruyne looks to use his fantastic crosses to get plenty of service into Cavani and Villa, always look to spot the run of the strikers and pick them out. He can also move inside where he can link with Mata and help him to control the game, using his incisive passing to open things up and also making runs between defenders to get in on goal. Villa will be more direct in his running, looking to beat defenders out wide and link with the attackers whilst using his movement to get into the box and on the end of chances. We want him pushing into the middle to link up and support Cavani when he can. All 3 must press as soon as we lose the ball, trying to keep us in possession and stop them from breaking on us. When we are under pressure these three drop back and defend, helping the FBs and midfield out being ready to launch a lethal counter attacking with our passing and pace.

Cavani is the focal point of the attack. He uses his fantastic movement to drag players around, getting involved in the build up play and making things happen by leaving space and playing a clever pass or by opening the space up fr his own runs. He will be very physical with the two defenders, using his strength to hold them off and then his turn of pace to leave them for dead and get in on goal. He attacks the crosses from the middle with Villa using his movement to run off defenders in the box for a cut back or to attack crosses at the posts.

Subs:

If Winning: Ramires on for Beñat 70', extra pace in midfield and workrate to keep us on the ball. Asamoah for Villa 75', defensive legs to help us stay in control. Piazon for Mata 80' mata gets a break, Piazon shows what he can do.

If Drawing: Piazon for De Bruyne 70', joins the AMs, uses his brilliant dribbling and passing to open the opp up. Hernandez for Villa 75', 4-4-2. Ramires for Capoue 80' fresh pace in Cm for a final push.

If Losing: Martinez for Capoue, Ramires for De Bruyne 70', 4-4-2 with Ramires and Beñat in the middle. Hernandez for Marcelo 75', go:

Courtois
Azpi Dante Marrone
Ramires Beñat
Mata Cavani Villa
Martinez Hernandez


posted on 6/4/13

Wigan vs Norwich:

---------------------------------Stekelnburg
---Lichtesteiner------Fernandes-------Astori-------Adriano
-----------------Ezequil Cirigliano------Borja Valero
-----Mauricio Isla-----------Patrick Hermann---------Coutinho
------------------------------Leandro Damiao

Subs: Kirchoff, Wanyama, Banega, Rakitic, Kovacic, Cerci, Vucinic

Freekicks: Hermann
Corners: Valero
Penalties: Damiao
Captain: Stekelnberg

Defence: Licht and Adriano are very very good at attacking, so must look to go for Norwich's FB, and get down the flanks and offer support to Isla and Coutinho. Thye must not neglect defensive duties, whilst Cirigliano and Valero must cover for their FB's, if they go too advanced. In the centre, Mario Fernandes and Astori are a very solid partnership, with one relying on speed and sharpness, the other relying on quick thinking and aerial ability. They must track the CF without giving away silly fouls, and must also look to clear the ball away, and both are very good with their feet, so must look to play the ball out of defence is possible, and knock it long if they are under too much pressure. No silly back passes or mistakes must be made, but Astori mustn't be afraid of stepping into midfield where he can utilise his brilliant passing ability.

In midfield, Cirigliano is the brilliant young DM that is a brilliant passer and one of the best tacklers around. He must look to always stop the AM in their tracks, as well as spraying the ball into the forward areas. He is like our Busquets, as his passing is almost like that of a deep lying playmaker, long or short, whilst he never neglects defensive duties, so must get stuck into the Norwich players. Alongside him, Borja Valero is having a wonderful season, and he will be playing the dictator role. Heavily linked to Spurs in recent weeks, Borja must pull of those stunning passes that see him cut open defences, and must supply the front 3 with deadly balls. His passing is that of a typical Spanish CM-with the ability to go long or short, he must control the tempo of our play. Ahead of these two CM's, we have Isla, Hermann and Coutinho. We plan on giving Patrick Hermann a free role in behind Damiao, as whilst he rarely plays there, I believe he is good enough for that role, as he is very fast, and extremely good at taking on his man, using short bursts of pace to get around players, and his crossing is very good too, and must look to send in through balls for Dmiao to take into his stride. He must always give Damiao support so he isn't isolated. To his right, Isla is a very good RM,but he will be playing slightly more advanced, with the hope that Licht can cover ground to give him great support down the right flank. Isla is a great passer, with brilliant vision, so must look to pass the ball around, and offer quality crosses for the likes of Damiao. On the other side, Coutinho has the magic that all Brazilians (Apart from Denilson) were born with. Two gifted feet and a great eye for a pass, little Coutinho must take on his man and beat him every time, whilst also giving those dream passes, flicking them into Hermann or Damiao's path. He must cut inside, giving plenty of space for Adriano to run wild in, whilst causing lots of problems for Norwich's back line.

Up front, Leandro Damiao is the CF. He must control every ball, using his powerful physique to shield the ball from defenders and hold the ball up for the rest of our attackers. His movement is brilliant, so he must look to reach every ball, and attack every loose ball in and around the box. He is a real finisher too, so must combine his knack of scoring goals with his fantastic attitude to try and find some precious goals for Our team.

Subs: On 60mins: Vucinic > Isla, Herrmann goes RW, Vucinic goes up front with Damiao, 4-4-2.

On 65mins: Wanyama > Borja, really powerful presence, gets stuck in, and offers great drive at times.

Banega > Cirigliano, offers flair, and replaces the job of Valero

posted on 9/4/13

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posted on 10/4/13

Pompey vs QPR


------------------------Ron-Robert Zieler--------
---Daniel Carvajal---David Luiz----Bonucci---Luke Shaw
----------------Javi Martinez-------Jaou Moutinho--
------Mario Gotze----------Toni Kroos--------Draxler
----------------------------Lewandowski

Subs: Timo Horn, Criscito, Ginter, Rode, Danilo, James, Halilovic

Game Plan: We will look to attack our opponents using a slick, pass and move game. We believe we have the abilities in defence to pass the ball out and start counter attacks, as Luiz is dynamic and will carry the ball forward, and alongisde him, Bonucci is an excellent passer of the ball, and mustn't be afraid of stepping into midfield at times to use his fantastic ball playing skills. Our two CB's must look to play the ball out if defence, as they both suit each other very well. Daniel Carvajal and Luke Shaw can also pick out a pass down the wings, and they should look to make supporting runs on the outside of our wingers. In midfield, Javi Martinez will defend our backline, and he is one of those DM's that will never give up, and always hassle and harry the opposition. He is also a very good passer, and he will look to spread play out to the wings, and break up play, before keeping the ball alongside Jaou Moutinho. Jaou Moutinho is best known for his excellent deep play, brilliant passing, and fantastic vision, so he will play in the dictator role, before turning into a kind of flair player/deep lying playmaker when needed. Toni Kroos will control the game from AM, and will be in support of Robert Lewandowski at all times. He will look to pick the ball up from midway, and direct those power shots into the corners. He will also look to use his top vision to find ways to release Mario Gotze and Julian Draxler. Mario Gotze's job will be to run at the LB, take him on, and whip in low balls for Lewandowski and Draxler, who are both guaranteed to finish them off. Julian Draxler will be on the other end, and use his dazzling dribbling ability, and superb acceleration to turn away from fullbacks, and clip in high balls for Mauro Icardi to throw himself at. Mauro Icardi will be the one who will finish off every move, and he is top scorer in the League for a reason.His fantastic positioning and his marauding runs in the box will confuse opposition, and Lewandowski will then attempt to finish off every ball which comes into the box. Lewandowski will be winning everything in the air, and finishing with an aplomb. He his two-footed, and is a wonderful finisher, so will look to attack every ball, and link up well with Mario Gotze and Draxler. Luiz comes up for corners in the first half, Bonucci to come up for corners in the second half.

Target areas:-

LB: we will look to take advantage of QPR's weak LB spot, and make sure Gotze takes advantage of him

DM: Although Essien is still half decent, we will look to over power him and make sure Kroos gets the better of him where the game will be won

RCB: Ogbonna is their only good CB, but we wil be targeting his partner, as Lewandowski will cripple him.

RB: Anyukov is very attacking, and this will be a real dream chance for Draxler to shine, with him looking to bathe in the space given to him, he will cause problems down the left, which shows we will have the advantage down both flanks.

ST: Torres cant hit a barn door so will be fluffed out by our two excellent CB's

GK: He is awful, we will look to test him with every chance of a shot, and latch onto any parries, drops, bad punches, awful positioning etc

Freekicks - Kroos
Penalties - Kroos
Corners - Toni Kroos
Captain - Zieler

Full Backs

Daniel Carvajal will start at right full back. Powerful, full of tactical awareness, and he is as comfortable with the ball at his feet as he is defending. Luke Shaw is at left back. 2 very pacy and powerful full backs who while first and foremost are there to defend will also join in going forward when the moment is right and will cause the opposition wide men a few headaches with their directness and pace. Both the full backs first priority is to defend and leave no gaps to exploit. Both Daniel Carvajal and Criscito can match their wingers for pace.

Centre Halves

Bonucci and D.Luiz form a formidable no-nonsense unit in the centre of the defence and their aggression makes this a back 4 to be reckoned with. Both are very big men and possess great aerial ability and are very strong in the tackle and this should ensure that we can more than handle most things that are thrown at them. Two big men with not only defending but also footballing ability in their locker. Both with good positioning sense and very good decision makers. It’s a very powerful and pacy defence and all four players are very, very talented with the ball at their feet and remained composed and know exactly what to do when in possession. When we are under little pressure, Bonucci will step up into a Sweeper role, where he can utilise his excellent passing skills, linking up well with Martinez in midfield. Bonucci and Luiz will not be beaten by crosses, high or low, as Luiz attacks the first ball, and failing that, Bonucci will clean up. We will be playing a deep line where QPR will struggle to break down, as it limits their pacy wingers (Hulk and Whoever else) to run in behind the defence. Javi Martinez will be expected to drop back a notch, ala De Rossi, when they attack, where he can keep his eyes on Kaka/AM and will act as a sweeper, with Shaw and Carvajal pushing up further:

------------Bonucci---------Luiz
--Carvajal------Javi Martinez-----Luke Shaw

But we must make sure Moutinho covers the FB out wide in this formation change

Central Midfield

Javi Martinez and Jaou Moutinho will be the central midfield pairing. They will be asked to keep the midfield ticking over and give protection to the back four. Each of them will cover for their full back if he has joined the attack. Javi Martinez will be the more defensive of the 2 and will boss the midfield. He’s a big, powerful midfielder with a huge engine and will cover every blade of grass on the field. Jaou Moutinho will operate as the dictator in midfield. Extremely comfortable with the ball he will keep our midfield moving. Equally as comfortable playing deep or on the front foot he will not neglect his defensive duties when necessary but we will see the best of him with the ball at his feet instigating our attacks. He has a wide range of passes in his locker and his guile will be a key factor in making sure our midfield has space penetration and that there is always someone in a position to receive the pass. Both of them possess a lethal shot so there will probably be a few efforts from distance if the chance arises. These 2 will be expected to run pull the strings from midfield from the off and will be crucial to our passing game. Moutinho will be the creator in the team and with a wide range of passing along with agility and shooting ability he will be linking with the wingers and striker to attack the opponents. He has the vision, sharpness and is a real handful and this coupled with the physicality and style of Javi Martinez will mean our midfield will see a lot of the ball.

Attacking Midfield

Toni Kroos will be playing the AM role today. His job is crucial to the team, as they will sit just in front of the DM (Essien), and will look to get the ball up to Lewandowski. Toni Kroos will create that extra magic that is needed to unlock defences, whilst Jaou Moutinho will sit back, just behind him, ready to help out. He will be crucial in our attacking game, as he will be the ones to supply the striker, and deliver those long, lung-busting runs across the pitch. Toni Kroos 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 Essien as he will have a top class AM all over him, pressing him back towards his own defence.

Left and Right Wing

Mario Gotze and Draxler will play on the right and left wing. These are 2 wingers with bags of pace. They will be expected to supply things for Lewandowski, and their pace will cause a lot of problems. They will be expected to attack the opponents back four and supported by their full backs get past their man and get the ball in for Lewandowski. This is an area we will look to exploit with our pacy wingers and powerful marauding full backs. We will look to stretch their defence out of shape and with fast and direct running I can see a lot of space opening up for the very quick and cunning Lewandowski . Both wingers provide a goal threat so expect to see them vary their attacks and cut inside when the time is right and drag their full back to the byline as well. Their pace and width will be a key factor in opening up space for the attack and by making the pitch very big and hugging the touchline it will also give our two midfield lynchpins more time and space to manoeuvre hopefully meaning that we can get a real grip on the midfield battle. We have an abundance of speed out wide and up front and our attack have the edge over the opposition wide men – both in terms of speed and versatility. That coupled with a couple of marauding full backs (when on the attack) should prove a fruitful area for us. With Draxler and Mario Gotze both able to take on a man and hug the touchline we will look to exploit this area. Their 2 centre halves will not be able to match Lewandowski for speed so hopefully with the wingers stretching their full backs, we will be able to confuse their entire back line and cause mishaps in dangerous areas

Striker

Up front Lewandowski will spearhead the attack. We are relying on him to get the goals after his brilliant displays this season, in the hope he will get us a goal againsty a very weak defence. He has pace, and movement ability is top notch. There will be no shortage of chances created for him and I would expect it to be a hard day at the office for the opposition’s central defenders with Lewandowski equally as good in the air as with the ball at his feet. He is also a powerful runner and has a good reading of the game and runs fantastic lines. This doubled with Gotze's and Draxler's superb vision, support and passing ability will hopefully prove productive for him. He is great at playing off the shoulder of the last defender and his powerful physique usually ensures that he always gets a yard on the last defender. He’s also a great link up man and holding the ball up – so when he doesn’t feel that there is something on then he will be providing for other and bringing Toni Kroos and the supporting wingers into play in dangerous areas. Lewandowski will be too much for Opposition's CB's, and will make deadly angled runs to get into a scoring position. He must also look to wriggle away from the attention of the CB's.

Summary

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 also pose a very dangerous threat on the counter. 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. In defence Jaou Moutinho will sit deeper, with Javi Martinez dropping back into the sweeper role, and will be expected to be his energetic self and press the opposition midfield/forwards and knock them out of their rhythm. Our wingers and full backs will sit a bit deeper to stay alert and ready to use their speed at any chance of a counter, although our two FB will be stepping up a notch to allow Martinez to develop into his more defensive self. With the ability of our team to change formation depending on the circumstances we have enough in midfield and out wide to starve them from the ball and with. This will open up acres of space and with neat simple passing and bags of pace, this will be a very productive area for us. We will be looking to get bodies in the box. With fast and fluid attacking play Lewabdowski and Kroos 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 Kroos, Mario Gotze and James then the opposition can always expect the unexpected.

Subs:

If winning on 60: Criscito > Shaw, more defensive LB

If winning on 60: James > Draxler, offers bigger goal scoring threat

If winning on 60: Halilovic > Moutinho with Kroos going CM

If drawing/losing on 60: Rode > Martinez, Rode plays as a CM but still excellent defensively

If drawing/losing on 60: Danilo > Carvajal, offers brilliant attacking style from RB

If drawing/losing on 60: Icardi > Kroos: Two up front, offers great danger up front

Penalty options (subs in brackets if they were made)

Gotze
Lewandowski
Kroos (Icardi)
Draxler (James)
Luiz
Bonucci
Moutinho
Javi Martinez (Rode)
(Halilovic)

posted on 11/4/13

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