Must win game. We finish the season with three difficult matches, this is a game where we have to be winning. Simple.

-------------- Buffon
Rafael – Skrtel – Evans – Filipe
---------- Sandro – Pirlo
Hamsik ------ Reus ----- Lavezzi
--------------- Tevez

Subs. Cesar, Adriano, Lucas, Gerrard, Young, Pandev, Eto’o
Balanced 4-2-3-1. Rigid in defence. Fluid in attack. Plenty of width. Direct and fast flowing football. Very hard pressing when the opposition have possession in our own half.
This is a huge away game for us, very important. I have an oven with a 'stop time' button. It's probably meant to be 'stop timer' but I don't touch it, just in case. This game is so important I will press this button if need be and put everything in place for us to win.

Defence:
One full back bombs forward at a time. The other is reserved but in a position ready to join the attack. Rafael will be the more attacking of the two. Skrtel looks to read the play, Evans to challenge and has the pace to get back and help Skrtel/fullbacks. Buffon bossing the defence from the back.
When the opposition are attacking we want two lines of four. 4-4-1-1 when defending. Hamsik/Reus/Lavezzi take turns of being the one behind Tevez. This one will follow the play from left to right.
Sandro has a purely defensive role in midfield, disciplined in his role he will not join the attack apart from set pieces and when space opens up for an opportunity to run 10 yards and shoot from distance. He will sit in front of the defence. Not allowing any space between our midfield and defence. Bullying the Hull midfielders, intercepting their play and winning the ball back. Playing it simple in possession.
Our attacking players have high energy levels and work rates. We want to defend from the front where possible. Playing in a solid fashion where everyone knows they need to be allows us to play a high pressure game, pressing as far up the pitch as possible. But crucially players must stay in their positions and work as a unit in pressing.
We will play a reasonably high line. They don’t have great pace up top. Whereas in Evans, Rafael and Filipe we have 3 players who are as quick as anything. With Buffon behind to control the defence and keep them right positionally.
Attack.
Rafael will be the full back we want bombing forward more often than Filipe. This will allow Hamsik to drift in from the right. Creating space for Rafael to exploit, pulling players out of position and overloading the middle where the Hull defence wont know what to do.
On the left we want Lavezzi to play very wide in the first two thirds. Stretch the play and coming from a position where he can really get in behind the opposition back line. In the final third he has freedom to drift in if he wants and really support Tevez.
In the center Pirlo will be the heartbeat of our side when moving out from defence. In the opposition half Marco Reus takes runs the show. We want Pirlo to really link defence and attack. He has the composure to keep our play ticking over and keep things moving but he also has the ability and freedom to play long raking balls, diagonals and through balls. Our attacking trio players are intelligent to find space and full of pace to exploit the opposition, Gerrard/Pirlo are the perfect players to play behind them. Today Pirlo will be pulling the strings.
Reus in the middle in order to get the best out of him. We want him involved in our play as much as possible. Simply play his natural game.
Tevez up top is also going to simply play his natural game. He will be a real handful as he likes to get involved, making him almost a false 9 at times. While he also has the drive and intelligence to make runs in behind. Has the perfect trio behind him to link up with.

Set pieces. Get Sandro and Evans up there causing bother with plenty of players in our side who will be quick to react. Pirlo get the deliveries from deep. Tevez shooting around the box.
Captain: Gigi
On the bench we have real quality, and everything you could want to change the game be it go defensive(aye right), inject pace, bring on a goal scorer or creativity.

Subs. If losing/drawing after 65 mins bring on Adriano for Filipe. More attacking quality.
If losing/drawing after 70 mins bring on Gerrard for Pirlo. More drive through the middle.
If losing/drawing after 75 mins bring on Eto’o for Hamsik.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Adriano for Lavezzi. More solid option on the left.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Gerrard for Hamsik. Reus goes right, Gerrard through the middle.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Eto’o for Tevez, pace up top for game opening up.

-----------------------Begovic
Johnson---Hummels-------Agger-----Clichy
-------------------------Inler
-------------Schweiny------Modric
Robben------------------------------------Ribery
----------------------Gomez
Subs
Blind, De Vrij, Juanfran, Payet, Dembele, Barry, Auby

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 looking to cut inside fairly regularly, so the full backs should look to hug the touchlines to keep the defence stretched and provide the out ball. 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 with the striker for the aerial balls played up to him, with Agger looking to snaffle the resulting knockdown, when the ball is on the floor, Agger will be the defender who looks to stand up the striker looking to keep tight to him and stifling his space to get the ball out of his feet, and Garay will be making a covering run if Agger is beaten. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should look to take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space and retain possession.

Defensive Midfielder
Inler will look to just sit in front of the back 4, staying deep when the full backs go forward to keep defensive numbers up in case of a counter attack, when numbers are healthy at the back, he should be looking to hover close to the opposition am/playmaker, making sure there isnt an easy ball for him to pick up. When attacking, he will look to take the ball off the centre backs and most of the time play it simply to one of the other midfielders, if the opposition start to play higher up the field and keep close tabs on our midfielders, he should look to play a lofted ball to Gomez to exploit the area between defence and midfield.

Centre Mids
Both are comfortable on the ball, and have the awareness to create themselves little pockets of space so they free to get the ball and keep the game ticking over, if they are getting closely marked, they should look to play slightly deeper to create more space for themselves, and if the ankle biters follow them, that will create a gap between the defence and midfield for the front 3 to exploit. When defending, Schweiny has the energy to play a pressing game in conjunction with the wingers to put pressure on the opposition, whilst Modders will hang back slightly, almost playing alongside Inler focusing on trying to intercept the ball rather than banging into players.

Wingers
They should look to stay as wide as possible when they receive the ball to try and stretch the defensive line. When they are 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 the wide 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 Gomez or a simple drag back to an onrushing CM. 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.
Occasionally, the 2 wingers will swap wings, where the emphasis will be more on crosses for 5-10 minute periods a few times during the match.

Striker
When defending, he should look to hover around the area of the opposition DM, trying to prevent the easy out of a pass back to him. When attacking, he shouldn't look to get too involved in build up play, just acting as a target man to give the back 5 the option of playing a lofted ball to him and hold the ball up for the wingers or CMs to get into the attacking area, when he has passed the ball, he should just look to get alongside the aerially weaker CB and be ready for crosses and look to feed on any panicky defensive blocks or weak goalkeeper parries and play the reak poachers role.

Set Pieces
Corners - Robben and Ribery take inswinging corners, the 2 CB's go into the box, the FB's and Inler stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Gomez attack the ball, Modders looks to annoy the opposition keeper looking to limit his ability to move off the goalline. Schweiny and the non taking winger take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.

Free Kicks - For direct FK's Modric and Ribery 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 - Payet for Robben - Fresh legs and extra defensive workrate.

76 mins - Dembele and Juanfran for Modric and Johnson - The wingers tuck back, but with the knowledge to get out quickly for the front 3 to try and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game. Dembele slots in alongside Inler and all 3 Centre Mids play a high energy pressing game.

If Losing

71 mins - Dembele for Inler - extra attacking impetus in the midfield

77 Mins - Auby and Payet for Robben and Modric - We go to 4-2-4, with the wingers bombarding crosses in to the 2 big men with the other winger adding the third option.

----------------Schmeicel---------------
O.Sorg----Amore----Sakho----Jansen
------------Canos-----Rakitic-----------
Narsingh--------Aimar---------Affellay
------------------Ibarbo------------------

Marchetti, Musacchio, Rode, Clemens, Kalou, Huntelaar, Konate

A chance for some fringe players to show what they can do and prove they are worth a starting jersey every week.....

Kasper Schmeicel comes into goal, a brave keeper much like his old man, comes out and deals with high balls and punches vlear what he cant catch, quickoff his line to shut down strikers and will release the ball early to the wide men.
Amorebietta and Sakho keep there partnership going as they look to form a strong relationship, Sakho picks up the striker and will out muscle him and keep toe to toe with him as he is quick on his feet, keep him away from the danger area and his back to goal. Amore sits spare and helps his fellow defenders out if needed, if not just sit a bit off Sakho when they come forward in case he loses the CF. Sorg and jansen come in, the two Germans are attack minded so get up and support the wingers, one at a time..go round them and look to get the ball played down the line or very least take the Ful;lback away, defend lines strongly and keep wingers away to the outside.

Canos picks up there danger man from midfield, say close and always watch his movement and dont let him dictate play, once ball is won simple balls to those outside him. Rakitic will have freedom to move forward and support, can pick a pass as well so alot will come through him to get the ball up the field, pass it about and alwaays go looking for a return pass, defend with Canos whjen they come forward.
Aimar is in a free role, he may be a more 'mature' player these days but he still got the vision and eye to pick out a perfect pass to his team mates, pick up from deep and look to set the forward three away, with defnce splitting passes, calm as you like and wont buckle under pressure, a fantastic player who Sunderland are lucky to have.
anrsingh and Affellay out wide provide skill and pace for Aimar to pick them out, there turn of pace is very quick so get away from markers for Rakitic and Aimar to pick them out so they can either get the crosses in or go for goal. when with the ball drive at the defence and use the fullbacks if they are up in support. Help defend by following the FBs as they come forward.

Ibarbo gets his chance, a real handful up front, keep on his toes and always on the last man ready to pounce, will have plenty supply so look to get into dangerous positions for those around him to try and pick him out. if he cant go for goal look to set others up with knock downs or flicks.

Captain:- Sakho
Penalties:- Ibarbo
FreeKicks:- Aimar
Corners:- Wingers

Subs:-

65 Mins:- Konate > Ibarbo
70 Mins:- Clemens > Aimar
75 Mins:- Kalou > Narsingh

red always 4-4-1 with Rakitic coming off

---------------------Neuer---------------------
Lahm-----Kompany-----Chedjou-----Baines
-------------Khedira-----A.Vidal--------------
Hulk da Souza-Mkhitaryan-Neymar daSilva
---------------------Aguero--------------------

Hart, Dragovic, Sakai, Bender, Kroos, Maher, B.Gomis

Neuer is a top and confident keeper will dominate the area and come out for all high balls clearing what he cant punch. Look to close down strikers by quickly coming off his line to shut down there shooting angles.

A back four with Lahm and Baines coming in at fullback, both solid players who defend their lines very well, keep the wingers quiet, keep them to the outside and away from our danger area. Attack when you can one at a time, support yhe wingers by going on the outside and look for a pass so you can get beyond the fullback and cross in, Or if in possession look to pick out Hulk and Neymar and ping the ball down the line for them to latch onto.
First and foremost, Kompany has the responsibility to mark striker into anonymity. This he does exceptionally well, using foresight that borders on the prophetic to intercept. He rarely has to make a rash tackle, so watch the lads movwement and be ready to move in. When the ball comes towards a striker and Kompany is in the area to defend, Chedjou moves into position to back up his teammate and fill in any gap that is left. If an opposing attacker makes a run in the centre, reacting to a ball played towards the striker Kompany is covering, Chedjou shifts to defend against a potential pass.If the striker gets away from Kompany it's the responsibility of Chedjou to shift and defend directly. Both comfortable with ball at feet so move the ball out when in no danger, otherwise clear it with no messing about.

Khedira will keep it simple in his defensive role. He watches the AM of WBA watch his movement and be there quick to stop him setting up attacks, break the play up between him and the CF etc to nulify there attacking threat. Always on his toes as there AM has a bit of class about him so we cant afford to let him dictate play. Vidal comes back in alongside, he will look to stamp his authority on this game early, Has great vision so will want to get his passing range in early to set the likes of Mkhitaryan, Aguero and neymar and Hulk up for many chances, he will always follow his pass and make himself available for a return ball. Can shoot from range so have a go. When they have sit alongside Khedira and help him break up their attacks.His work rate is fantastic and always in the faces of the opposition.
Mkhitaryan is in the free role, his attacking prowess is fantastic, will make late runs into the box and has tremendous vision. His inventiveness with his little flicks & dribbling skills are super too, but the best part is he knows where the net is. So will look to support Aguero as much as possible, Also use Hulk and Neymar for one twos to break the line of defence. drop back and help defend v the DM if he breaks forward.
Hulk is on the right, will look to drive at the fb, causing him all sorts of problems, cut in off his right and shoot with his left, or lay off to Mkhit/Aguero for him to dart into the box for the return. Otherwise look to take on the fullback get to the bye line and cross in for Aguero in the box. Neymar will use his pace to get him passed his marker, knock it forward and use the forward momentum to get by the player and cross in, will do this all day long so Aguero will thrive of this. At times neymar and Hulk will be supported by our fullbacks so use them, either play it wide for them o r allow them to take the markers away to free up space to drive into. I want all 3 attacking mids to track back and stopp the WBA fullbacks and DMS getting forward and becoming a nuisance.

Aguero is a top striker, scores many goals from differwent angles and with either foot and is strong in the air, will thrive on the service from those behind so he will be looking to make a goalscoring return up front. Neymar Aguero and Hulk are a fearsome trio up dront full of goals so they must capitialise on any mistake by WBA. Always on his toes and on the last line of defence and ready to go for goal. If he cant then look to lay off/knock down for the support coming in from behind. He is strong so can hold of defenders and make his way into the danger area. Leap early for crosses coming in to beat the defender in the air.

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

Subs:-

Losing/Drawing

70 Mins - B.Gomis > Mkhit - Aguero goes into a SS role behind Gomis
75 Mins - Kroos > Hulk - Aguero goes right, Kroos goes supporting Gomis
80 Mins: only if losing Dragovic for Lahm 3 at the back, Baines to LM, Neymar goes up top with Gomis in a 3-4-1-2
80 Mins: - If drawing Maher on for Vidal

Winning:-
70 Mins:- Kroos for Mkhit fresh legs to get up and down the pitch
80 Mins:- Sakai > Hulk, play just in front of Lahm to stop any new threat down there left but still attack if needed
85 Mins:- Gomis for Aguero, hold it up near end and get himself about

Red
4-4-1 Hulk off and appropriate sub on Aguero to the right

We dropped points against Reading earlier in the season, we want to absolutley destroy them Unfortunately LRF has left and so there is likely to be a better atmosphere in the Reading camp, fortunately though they still have the players LRF signed.

------------- Buffon
Rafael – Pepe – Skrtel – Adriano
--------- Sandro – Pirlo
Hamsik --- Gerrard ---- Lavezzi
-------------- Tevez

Subs. Cesar, Abate, Lucas, Banega,Young, Eto’, Dzeko

Summary: All out attack. We want to dominate from the back. Attacking full backs giving width. Pirlo on the ball. Sandro almost as third cb. Attacking trio have creative freedom in final third. Patient in possession in first two thirds, direct in final third.

Defence:
Two full back bombs forward at a time. Skrtel looks to read the play, Pepe to challenge and has the pace to get back and help Skrtel/fullbacks. Buffon bossing the defence from the back.

When the opposition are attacking we want two lines of four. 4-4-1-1 when defending. Hamsik/Gerrard/Lavezzi take turns of being the one behind Tevez. This one will follow the play from left to right.

Sandro has a purely defensive role in midfield, disciplined in his role he will not join the attack apart from set pieces and when space opens up for an opportunity to run 10 yards and shoot from distance. He will sit in front of the defence almost as a third cb. Pirlo along side will be playing from deep, and if the opposition win play back he will be the one making sure there is no space between our midfield and defence. Bullying the Reading midfielders, intercepting their play and winning the ball back. Playing it simple in possession.

Our attacking players have high energy levels and work rates. We want to defend from the front where possible. Playing in a solid fashion where everyone knows they need to be allows us to play a high pressure game, pressing as far up the pitch as possible. But crucially players must stay in their positions and work as a unit in pressing.

We will play a reasonably high line. They don’t have great pace up top. Whereas in Pepe, Rafael and Adriano we have 3 players who are as quick as anything. With Buffon behind to control the defence and keep them right positionally.

Attack.

Two full backs will be very attacking, offering width and giving more choice to our wingers. Creating space for Rafael and Adriano to exploit, pulling players out of position and overloading the Reading defence wont know what to do.
On the left we want Lavezzi to play very wide in the first two thirds. Stretch the play and coming from a position where he can really get in behind the opposition back line. In the final third he has freedom to drift in if he wants and really support Tevez.

In the centre Pirlo will be the heartbeat of our side when moving out from defence. We want Pirlo to really link defence and attack. He has the composure to keep our play ticking over and keep things moving but he also has the ability and freedom to play long raking balls, diagonals and through balls.

Tevez up top is also going to simply play his natural game. He will be a real handful as he likes to get involved, making him almost a false 9 at times. While he also has the drive and intelligence to make runs in behind. Has the perfect trio behind him to link up with.

Set pieces. Get Sandro, Skrtel and Pepe up there causing bother with plenty of players in our side who will be quick to react. Pirlo get the deliveries from deep. Tevez shooting around the box.
Captain: Stevie Gee
On the bench we have real quality, and everything you could want to change the game be it inject pace, bring on a goalscoer or creativity.
If drawing after 50 mins bring on Dzeko for Gerrard. Tevez behind Dzeko.
If drawing after 60 mins bring on Eto’o for Hamsik.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Dzeko for Gerrard. Tevez deeper.
If wining after 75 mins bring on Banega for Pirlo.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Youg for Lavezzi.

Spurs vs Pompey:

---------------------------Koval----------------------
--Danilo---Matthias Ginter---Nastasic------Shaw
----------Nemanja Matic-----Rodwell
--Mario Gotze--------Marchisio-------Julian Draxler
------------------Robert Lewandowski

Subs: Carvajal, Bonucci, Martinez, Capoue, Shaqiri, Lukaku, El Shaarawy

Today we will be playing a weakened team against Spurs, and this is because we want all our players to be freshened up against a managerless side. Spurs have no manager meaning no tactics, so today we will be very brief:

Koval gets a rare League start, but is a top young keeper linked to all sorts of top teams, and he must safe guard the back 4, keeping it organised, and making himself clear and vocal. He has a long throw on him, and we will use this as an asset to free the two full backs who will bomb forward when Koval has the ball in his arms. This is to be used as a quick counter attack move.

Moving onto defence, Danilo starts ahead of Carvajal who deserves a break, having slotted somewhat unexpectedely into our first XI since he joined. Danilo is known for his attack drive, dribbling skills and tendancy to link up with the RW. He must do this to full effect, rampaging down the right to double up on Gotze who will drift inside providing space. Danilo has a good cross on him, so should look to whip balls across the box waiting for someone to convert. On the other flank, Luke Shaw will do what he always does-attack down the touchline with venom, linking up with the midfield, and running back when under pressure.

In the centre, there’s a debut for young Matthias Ginter, who was Germany’s best player in the U21’s, and has been heavily linked to the likes of A.Madrid, Arsenal, Bayern and Dortmund. He is very calm on the ball, and must stay focused at all times, and his speciality is his blocking skills, so he just look to put his leg out to every shot directed at goal. Next to him is Nastasic, who has had an excellent season, and gives us the aireal ability to deal with the striker. He is very strong, and is quick, whilst having a very good passing range. All defenders will look to play the ball out from the back, but must hoof when under pressure.

IN the centre are Matic and Rodwell. Rodwell is the DM, whilst Matic is given more freedom in a box to box role. Rodwell must hold the fort in midfield, and he must help press the midfield back to the wall. The aim is to try and create a gap between the midfield and the strikeforce, leaving the opposition toothless. Matic and Rodwell must track back whenever possession is lost, whilst Matic has the extra responsibility of attacking the opposition box. This is by driving on the midfield, and looking to support Marchisio, who is our midfield playmaker, in behind Lewandowski looking to work out ways in getting behind the oppositions defence. He will always have support in Gotze and Draxler, who both like to come onto their right foot, so whilst they both drift inside, our fullbacks pace the wings, and Marchisio will be key in spotting these runs made by the wingers/fullbacks.

Out wide, Gotze and Draxler are two of the best youngsters in the Bundesliga. Whilst Gotze looks to drift inside of the LB, Draxler looks to cut in, outside of the RB, and Draxler does this very efficiently, as he can produce some great curlers into the far corner, as well as crossing the ball accurately onto the heads of the strikers. Gotze must take the ball on the right, and using his fantastic footwork, must trick his way into the box, looking for ways to set up Lewandowski. Both of our wingers are very fast, and will have support in Danilo and Shaw, so shouldn’t be afraid to use them.

Up front, Lewandowski is the lone striker where he works best, and he must operate as the target man, as well as the clinical finisher. He is brilliant in the air, has very good passing skills for a striker, and likes to drop back occasionally to create a fine line for the wingers. His movement in the box is the best you could hope for, and his finishing is top class. He will get on the end of every cross played in by Danilo/Draxler, whilst looking to play short passes in and around the box with the likes of Gotze and Marchisio.

Subs:

On 45mins: Capoue > Rodwell, straight swap.
On 60mins: El Shaarawy > Marchisio, Draxler goes AM
On 72mins: Lukaku > Lewandowsi

Pablo Zabaleta - 1 weeks
Serge Aurier - 2 weeks
Sebastien Coates - 3 weeks
Andre-Pierre-Gignac - 2 weeks

--------------------Szczesny-------------------
---Ivanovic----Boateng----Godin----Kolarov
----------------Mikel-----Moutinho------------
Walcott------------Oscar--------Hazard-
---------------------Higuain--------------------

Subs: Al Habsi, Marquinhos, Valbuena, Milner, Callejon, Llorente, Koke

Captain: Branislav Ivanovic
Free Kicks: Alexander Kolarov
Penalties: Eden Hazard
Corners: Hazard (from left, inswing) Kolarov (From right, outswing)

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.

Ivanovic & Kolarov must not give the Opposition wingers any time on the ball. They will allow the opposition wingers inside them as this will take them into traffic. We are vulnerable on the wings as Walcott and Hazard don’t really like tracking back so if we force the opposition wingers inside this will be better for us. 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 Boateng, 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 Boateng will stay close to each other not allowing the opposition 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. Moutinho will be his partner who will play close to him when defending. He has the responsibility in helping out the full backs also. Defensively be solid, Mikel and Moutinho will sit deep and defend our back four. When the attack is on their side, they will drift over and team up with our full back, close them down and win the ball back. Moutinho will look to protect the LB and Mikel the RB. However ultimately, they must stay tight in the middle and look to give no space to the opposition etc. When one of them covers a full back then Oscar drops in to still make it two in the middle:
-------------------------------Kolarov
---------Mikel----Oscar-----Moutinho
Walcott

This leaves Walcott and Hazard free which is where our main threat is and where we are dangerous.

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 losing at 75mins –
Mikel off Milner on
Moutinho off Callejon on – Hazard AM

80mins:
Boateng off Llorente on
3-5-2

If Drawing 75mins:
Moutinho off for Callejon – Oscar deeper, Hazard AM

If winning 75mins:
Walcott off for Milner, Oscar RW
Higuain off for Llorente,

If Keeper gets sent off then AM comes off for keeper on bench
In this case: Moutinho > Szczesny 4-2-2-2
If Defender gets sent off then AM comes off for Defender on bench
In this case: Moutinho > Marquinhos – Boateng RB/Lb if needed. If DM gets sent off (Mikel/Moutinho) then AM for DM on bench
If st gets sent off, the AM for St on bench
In this case: Oscar > Llorente

---------------------------Trapp ---------------------
Iraola----Jagielka --------Lescott ----------Monreal
------------M’Vila ------------------Cabeye ------------
Ben Arfa------------------Michu --------------Sturridge
------------------------Ba ---------------------------
Subs: Savic , Knockaert, Romeu , Assaidi, Fer, De Guzman Aspas

Trapp will command his back line.
Jagielka will mark Chelsea s main striker while Lescott 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 is the enforcer in midfield, while Cabaye sits. Cabeye will act as the play maker with good distribution of the ball making the team tick.
Ben Arfa and Sturridge 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 Chelsea defence. He will hold the ball up if he has little support to bring other into play. Goalscorer.










Subs if losing after 70 mins

------------------------Trapp---------------------
Iraola----Jagielka --------Lescott----------Monreal
------------M’Vila --------------Cabeye --
Sturridge----------------Michu------------------------------Assaidi
--------------- ----------------Ba ------- ------------------

Assaidi brings a pit of pace into the game.
If winning after 70 mins
De Guzman on for Michu (extra guy in midfield)
Aspas on for Ba (more chasing the channels)

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

-----------------------Begovic
Johnson---Hummels-------Agger-----Clichy
-------------------------Inler
-------------Schweiny------Modric
Robben------------------------------------Ribery
----------------------Gomez
Subs
De Vrij, Juanfran, Payet, Lennon, Obiang, Barry, Auby

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 looking to cut inside fairly regularly, so the full backs should look to hug the touchlines to keep the defence stretched and provide the out ball. 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 with the striker for the aerial balls played up to him, with Agger looking to snaffle the resulting knockdown, when the ball is on the floor, Agger will be the defender who looks to stand up the striker looking to keep tight to him and stifling his space to get the ball out of his feet, and Garay will be making a covering run if Agger is beaten. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should look to take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space and retain possession.

Defensive Midfielder
Inler will look to just sit in front of the back 4, staying deep when the full backs go forward to keep defensive numbers up in case of a counter attack, when numbers are healthy at the back, he should be looking to hover close to the opposition am/playmaker, making sure there isnt an easy ball for him to pick up. When attacking, he will look to take the ball off the centre backs and most of the time play it simply to one of the other midfielders, if the opposition start to play higher up the field and keep close tabs on our midfielders, he should look to play a lofted ball to Gomez to exploit the area between defence and midfield.

Centre Mids
Both are comfortable on the ball, and have the awareness to create themselves little pockets of space so they free to get the ball and keep the game ticking over, if they are getting closely marked, they should look to play slightly deeper to create more space for themselves, and if the ankle biters follow them, that will create a gap between the defence and midfield for the front 3 to exploit. When defending, Schweiny has the energy to play a pressing game in conjunction with the wingers to put pressure on the opposition, whilst Modders will hang back slightly, almost playing alongside Inler focusing on trying to intercept the ball rather than banging into players.

Wingers
They should look to stay as wide as possible when they receive the ball to try and stretch the defensive line. When they are 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 the wide 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 Gomez or a simple drag back to an onrushing CM. 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.
Occasionally, the 2 wingers will swap wings, where the emphasis will be more on crosses for 5-10 minute periods a few times during the match.

Striker
When defending, he should look to hover around the area of the opposition DM, trying to prevent the easy out of a pass back to him. When attacking, he shouldn't look to get too involved in build up play, just acting as a target man to give the back 5 the option of playing a lofted ball to him and hold the ball up for the wingers or CMs to get into the attacking area, when he has passed the ball, he should just look to get alongside the aerially weaker CB and be ready for crosses and look to feed on any panicky defensive blocks or weak goalkeeper parries and play the reak poachers role.

Set Pieces
Corners - Robben and Ribery take inswinging corners, the 2 CB's go into the box, the FB's and Inler stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Gomez attack the ball, Modders looks to annoy the opposition keeper looking to limit his ability to move off the goalline. Schweiny and the non taking winger take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.

Free Kicks - For direct FK's Modric and Ribery 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 - Payet for Robben - Fresh legs and extra defensive workrate.

76 mins - Barry and Juanfran for Modric and Johnson - The wingers tuck back, but with the knowledge to get out quickly for the front 3 to try and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game. Barry slots in alongside Inler and all 3 Centre Mids play a high energy pressing game.

If Losing

71 mins - Obiang for Inler - extra attacking impetus in the midfield

77 Mins - Auby and Payet for Robben and Modric - We go to 4-2-4, with the wingers bombarding crosses in to the 2 big men with the other winger adding the third option.

--------------Courtois
Kalas-----Cahill---Ake----Marcelo
-------Chalobah--Ramires
Lamela-----De Bruyne---Baptistao
---------------Martinez

Subs: Alves, Piszczek, Marrone, Asamoah, Beñat, Cavani, Hernandez

Captain: Gary Cahill
Free Kicks: De Bruyne
Corners: De Bruyne
Penalties: Martinez

Game Plan:
We want to go out there and have a real go at Norwich, attacking with quick direct football using our excellent movement to open up the spaces. Off the ball we press very quickly and don't give them a chance to find a way into this game.

Tactics:

Courtois commands his area, coming to collect crosses and relieve pressure on the defence. Get the ball into midfield quickly to start the attacks.

The FBs have a license to push forward in support of attacks when we are building down their side. Kalas looks to give Lamela and option, and he can get good crosses in. Marcelo is more direct in his attacking play, linking with Baptistao and using his pace and dribbling to work space and get into dangerous crossing positions or to break into the box. Defensively they use their pace to get tight to the wingers and force them right out to the touchline, not allowing them to get a run at us or to cut inside, putting tackles in and forcing them back.

Cahill will man mark the main CF, using his strength and intelligent reading of the game to get tight when the striker is in dangerous areas around our box and not allowing him to turn into space towards goal, putting in a tackle and forcing him to drop deeper and deeper. He reads the game well and get the last ditch tackles in as well as dominating in the air. Ake alongside him acts as the sweeper, he reads the game extremely well and can step out of the defensive line to deal with danger, beating the forwards to the ball and dealing with the danger whilst also covering Cahill if anything gets behind him. He must also watch for midfield runners and make sure they can't get space in and around the box, getting tight and putting tackles in when he can. On the ball he is fantastic and we want him to help build our play from deep, bringing the ball into midfield and using his intelligent passing.

Chalobah and Ramires provide the engine room for us. Chalobah will be the deeper of the two, breaking up the play when Norwich look to attack and making sure they can't find space between the lines. He will use his good passing to keep us on the ball and moving forward. Ramires will look to be more offensive and in the face of the opposition, pressing hard in midfield and using his pace and direct running to drive the team forward, making his trade mark runs in behind the defence.

De Bruyne will be the hub of the attacks, working around to link the play up with his fantastic passing and making his runs forward, looking to find space between the lines and create chances. He makes runs off the forward too to get into the box. Lamela and Baptistao are two very direct players that love to have a run at the defence, we want them constantly doing this, switching it up and sometimes going at the FB to get crosses in, other times cutting inside and linking with team mates before driving at the CBs, drawing them out and slipping in a forward or taking them on and getting in on goal themselves.

Martinez will look to link the play up as the ball comes into him with quick lay offs or spreading the ball wide. Always be ready to make his move in behind the defence, playing off the shoulder of them and getting in on goal, taking his chances.

Subs:

If Winning: Marrone for Ramires 70'. Beñat for De Bruyne, Hernandez for Martinez 75'.

If Drawing/losing: Beñat for Chalobah 70'. Cavani and Hernandez for Martinez and Baptistao 4-4-2 75'.

Wigan Athletic:

----------------------------Muslera
--Litchsteiner-----Albiol----Abdennour----Vrsaljko
-------------Mauricio Isla------Nainggolan
------Herrmann----------Grenier---------Coutinho
-------------------------Mirko Vucinic

Subs: Markovic, Ansaldi, Astori, Parker, Diego, Cerci, Valero

Freekicks: Grenier
Corners: Isla
Penalties: Gaitan
Captain: Litch

Today we face Newcastle, and at home, we feel we have the chance to get some points. Whilst there's a big difference in quality in our teams, we believe that we can hurt them on the counter, as Newcastle have a weak GK in Sczecney, who we suppose will be playing, makes many mistakes, so we will look to target him specifically. Furthermore, we look to target the LB they will most likely play in Kolarov, who has been left out of City's first 11 for a reason, whilst we have Herrmann the German facing him, who must use his raw pace to escape down the right, and Kolarov is one of the most attacking fullbacks out there, so we must exploit any space left. Another clear 'weakness' is John Obi Mikel/the DM, who has been out of favour for the best part of the season, and if he plays, we have Clement Grenier, who has put in some wonderful performances over the year, and we must look to target Mikel. Vucinic must drop back to add extra pressure on him too. If Milner plays at CM, then we feel we can conqer him too, as that is not his best position.


Defence: Licht and Vrsaljko are very very good at attacking, so must look to go for Oppo's FB, and get down the flanks and offer support to Herrmann and Gaitan. They must not neglect defensive duties, whilst Isla and Nainggolan must cover for their FB's, if they go too advanced. In the centre, Albiol and Abdennour 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, Isla will play DM, and he 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 Carrick, 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 opposition players. Alongside him, Nainggolan is off the back of a wonderful season, and he will be playing the dictator role. Nainggolan must pull of those stunning passes that see him cut open defences, and must supply the front 3 with deadly balls. His passing has the ability to go long or short, he must control the tempo of our play. Ahead of these two CM's, we have Herrmann, Coutinho and Grenier. We plan on giving Grenier a free role in behind Vucinic, as I believe he is good enough for that role, as he is nippy, 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 Vucinic to take into his stride. He must always give Vucinic support so he isn't isolated. To his right, Herrmann 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. Herrmann is a great passer, with brilliant vision, so must look to pass the ball around, and offer quality crosses for the likes of Vucinic. On the other side, Coutinho has Two gifted feet and a great eye for a pass, and must take on his man and beat him every time, whilst also giving those dream passes, flicking them into Grenier or Vucinics path. He must cut inside, giving plenty of space for Adriano to run wild in, whilst causing lots of problems for Opponents back line.

Up front, Vucinic 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 45mins: Markovic > Herrmann, Coutinho goes right
On 60mins, if winning: Parker > Nainggolan, get two DM’s in there
On 60mins: Ansaldi > Vrsaljko, defensive change

TACTICS FOR SUNDERLAND

WEEK34 V SPURS
WEEK35 V VILLA
WEEK36 V LIVERPOOL

-----------------Marchetti-----------------
Uchida-----Amore-----Sakho-----Jansen
--------------Rode------Canos-------------
Narsingh---------Aimar----------Affellay
-----------------Huntelaar-----------------

Schmeicel, Sorg, Musacchio, Verratti, Defour, Kalou, Ibarbo

Marchetti stays tall, and comes out for all high balls punching clear what he cant catch, come out to meet forwards and close down angles, release early to wide men

Back 4 stay strong and focussed. Sakho picks up the striker and Amorebietta sits spare watching all other danger coming through. Both come to meet players but donr over committ. Fullbacks attck one at a time to support the wingers, over lapping to create an extra man down the flank, if possible fire in early crosses for Huntelaar. Defending stand up and dont dive in, keep wingers to the outside and crosses to a minimum.

Canos and Rode are a solid pair in the middle, wont let alot through them, tackle strongly and dont hold back, dont allow them to dictate play, once the ball is won simple balls to those around them. One always sits back and the other can venture forward a little in case of any balls coming back out.

Aimar is the ball player, the genius in the team, alot goes through him, despite his age he still has a lot to offer,, so he picks up and sprays it about to the forward three, looking to set them up on goal, fantastic vision and a great eye for a pass..

Narsingh and Affellay are quick and skillfull and will look to take on their markers, get down the line and look to get the crosses in from the bye line. Use the fullbacks for support, sofeed the ball down the line and cut in or use them as a dummy to take the fullback away freeing up more space for them to drive into. defend the lines by tracking there fullbacks.

Huntelaar is a goal machine, gets into great positions and always on the move, will get plenty support so up to others to play the ball into where he is going to be, pressurize the defenders at all times to make them make mistakes.

captain - Amorebietta
Penalties - Huntelaar/Ibarbo
freekicks - Aimar/Verratti
Cornes - Wingers

Subs

Losing/drawing

70 Mins - Kalou > Narsingh
75 Mins - Verratti > Canos
80 Mins - Ibarbo > Aimar - 4-4-2

Winning
70 Mins - Verratti > Aimar
75 Mins - Defour > Canos
85 Mins - Ibarbo > Huntelaar

Chelsea v Norwich

---------------------Neuer---------------------
Lahm------Subotic------Chedjou------Sakai
--------------------Bender---------------------
--------------Kroos-------Vidal----------------
---Morata---------Aguero---------Neymar---

Baumann, Baines, Kompany, Khedira, Fabregas, Hulk, Benteke

Neuer is a top and confident keeper will dominate the area and come out for all high balls clearing what he cant punch. Look to close down strikers by quickly coming off his line to shut down there shooting angles.

A back four with Lahm and Sakai coming in for his debut at fullback, both solid players who defend their lines very well, keep the wingers quiet, keep them to the outside and away from our danger area. Attack when you can one at a time, support yhe wingers by going on the outside and look for a pass so you can get beyond the fullback and cross in, Or if in possession look to pick out Morata and Neymar and ping the ball down the line for them to latch onto.
First and foremost, Subotic has the responsibility to mark striker into anonymity. This he does exceptionally well, using foresight that borders on the prophetic to intercept. He rarely has to make a rash tackle, so watch the lads movwement and be ready to move in. When the ball comes towards a striker and Subotic is in the area to defend, Chedjou moves into position to back up his teammate and fill in any gap that is left. If an opposing attacker makes a run in the centre, reacting to a ball played towards the striker Subotic is covering, Chedjou shifts to defend against a potential pass.If the striker gets away from Subotic it's the responsibility of Chedjou to shift and defend directly. Both comfortable with ball at feet so move the ball out when in no danger, otherwise clear it with no messing about.

Bender will keep it simple in his defensive role. He watches the AM of Norwich watch his movement and be there quick to stop him setting up attacks, break the play up between him and the CF etc to nulify there attacking threat. Always on his toes as there AM has a bit of class about him so we cant afford to let him dictate play. Vidal in alongside Kroos, he will look to stamp his authority on this game early, Has great vision so will want to get his passing range in early to set the likes of Morata, Aguero and Neymar up for many chances, he will always follow his pass and make himself available for a return ball. Can shoot from range so have a go. When they have sit alongside Bender and help him break up their attacks.His work rate is fantastic and always in the faces of the opposition.
Kroos is more in the free role, with more freedom to attack his attacking prowess is fantastic, will make late runs into the box and has tremendous vision. His inventiveness with his little flicks & dribbling skills are super too, but the best part is he knows where the net is. So will look to support Aguero as much as possible, Also use Morata and Neymar for one twos to break the line of defence. drop back and help defend v the DM if he breaks forward.
Morata is on the right, will look to drive at the fb, causing him all sorts of problems, cut in off his right and shoot with his left, or lay off to Kroos/Aguero for him to dart into the box for the return. Otherwise look to take on the fullback get to the bye line and cross in for Aguero in the box. Neymar will use his pace to get him passed his marker, knock it forward and use the forward momentum to get by the player and cross in, will do this all day long so Aguero will thrive of this. At times neymar and Morata will be supported by our fullbacks so use them, either play it wide for them o r allow them to take the markers away to free up space to drive into. I want both attacking mids to track back and stopp the Norwich fullbacks and DMS getting forward and becoming a nuisance. Also look to swithc with Aguero causing confusion in their back line

Aguero is a top striker, scores many goals from differwent angles and with either foot and is strong in the air, will thrive on the service from those behind so he will be looking to make a goalscoring return up front. Neymar Aguero and Hulk are a fearsome trio up dront full of goals so they must capitialise on any mistake by WBA. Always on his toes and on the last line of defence and ready to go for goal. If he cant then look to lay off/knock down for the support coming in from behind. He is strong so can hold of defenders and make his way into the danger area. Leap early for crosses coming in to beat the defender in the air.

Captain - Lahm
Penalties - Aguero
Free Kicks - Kroos
Corners - Wingers

Subs -

Losing/drawing -
70 Mins - Cesc & Hulk for Kroos & Morata
80 Mins - Maher for Bender, Vidal to man mark

Winning
70 Mins - Khedira for Kroos, sit alongside Bender
80 Mins - Benteke for Aguero
85 Mins - Baines for Neymar

CHELSEA cup tactics for replay and possible Semi Final

-------------------Neuer-------------------
Lahm----Kompany----Subotic----Baines
------------Khedira----A.Vidal------------
------------------Fabregas-----------------
Hulk da Souza--------------Neymar Silva
------------------S.Aguero-----------------

Hart, Sakai, Chedjou, Bender, Kroos, Morata, Benteke

Neuer is a top and confident keeper will dominate the area and come out for all high balls clearing what he cant punch. Look to close down strikers by quickly coming off his line to shut down there shooting angles. Release the wide players early if chasing the game.

A back four with Lahm and Baines at fullback, both solid players who defend their lines very well, keep the wingers quiet, keep them to the outside and away from our danger area. Attack when you can one at a time, support the wingers by going on the outside and look for a pass so you can get beyond the fullback and cross in, Or if in possession look to pick out Hulk and Neymar and ping the ball down the line for them to latch onto. Always look to get the ball from the winger or at very least make more room for them by taking the FB away, cross early if opportunity arises.
First and foremost, Kompany has the responsibility to mark striker into anonymity. This he does exceptionally well, using foresight that borders on the prophetic to intercept. He rarely has to make a rash tackle, so watch the lads movwement and be ready to move in. When the ball comes towards a striker and Kompany is in the area to defend, Subotic moves into position to back up his teammate and fill in any gap that is left. If an opposing attacker makes a run in the centre, reacting to a ball played towards the striker Kompany is covering, Subotic shifts to defend against a potential pass.If the striker gets away from Kompany it's the responsibility of Subotic to shift and defend directly. Both comfortable with ball at feet so move the ball out when in no danger, otherwise clear it with no messing about. Kompany to go up for corners and use his upper body strength and height to pose a lot of problems.

Khedira will keep it simple in his defensive role. He watches the AM, watch his movement and be there quick to stop him setting up attacks, break the play up between him and the CF etc to nulify there attacking threat. Always on his toes as there AM has a bit of class about him so we cant afford to let him dictate play. Vidal in alongside, he will look to stamp his authority on this game early, Has great vision so will want to get his passing range in early to set the likes of Hulk, Aguero and Neymar up for many chances, he will always follow his pass and make himself available for a return ball. Can shoot from range so have a go. When they have sit alongside Khedira and help him break up their attacks.His work rate is fantastic and always in the faces of the opposition.
Fabregas is more in the free role, with more freedom to attack his attacking prowess is fantastic, will make late runs into the box and has tremendous vision. His inventiveness with his little flicks & dribbling skills are super too, but the best part is he knows where the net is. So will look to support Aguero as much as possible, Also use Hulk and Neymar for one twos to break the line of defence. drop back and help defend v the DM if he breaks forward.
Hulk is on the right, will look to drive at the fb, causing him all sorts of problems, cut in off his right and shoot with his left, or lay off to Cesc/Aguero for him to dart into the box for the return. Otherwise look to take on the fullback get to the bye line and cross in for Aguero in the box. Neymar will use his pace to get him passed his marker, knock it forward and use the forward momentum to get by the player and cross in, will do this all day long so Aguero will thrive of this. At times neymar and Hulk will be supported by our fullbacks so use them, either play it wide for them o r allow them to take the markers away to free up space to drive into. I want both attacking mids to track back and stop the fullbacks and DMS getting forward and becoming a nuisance. Also look to switch with Aguero causing confusion in their back line

Aguero is a top striker, scores many goals from differwent angles and with either foot and is strong in the air, will thrive on the service from those behind so he will be looking to make a goalscoring return up front. Neymar Aguero and Hulk are a fearsome trio up dront full of goals so they must capitialise on any mistake by the opposition. Always on his toes and on the last line of defence and ready to go for goal. If he cant then look to lay off/knock down for the support coming in from behind. He is strong so can hold of defenders and make his way into the danger area. Leap early for crosses coming in to beat the defender in the air.

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

Subs:-
Losing/drawing
65 Mins:- Benteke > Hulk - Aguero moves wide right and benteke up front for a different option
72 Mins:- Kroos for Vidal - more attack minded and sits alongside Cesc further up
80 Mins:- Morata > Cesc - Aguero into SS position and Morata wide right, all three, Morata/Aguero/Neymar i want really to have a go and switch around

Winning:-
75 Mins:- Bender > Cesc - Vidal moves into role ahead of Khedira and Bender
80 Mins:- Benteke for Aguero - look to hold it up but still go for goal if its on
85 Mins:- Sakai for Hulk defensive minded in a winger role to stop the threat coming down that side

Pens:
(depending on who is on pitch)
Aguero
Benteke
Baines
Fabregas
Vidal
Kroos
Morata
Lahm
Sakai
Kompany
Khedira

LEAGUE TACTICS

Portsmouth vs Aston Villa


--------------------------Zieler--------
-Carvajal---Bonucci------Nastasic---Schmelzer
--------Javi Martinez------Nemanja Matic--
Mario Gotze------Marchisio--------El Shaarawy
---------------------Lewandowski

Subs: Koval, Danilo, Griezmann, Lukaku, Draxler, Rodwell, Papadopoulos

Game Plan: This is a massive game against Villa today. We need to win this to extend our lead in 7th. We are playing to win, but setting out in a way where we dont lose. Zieler holds his back line, never taking any risks with the ball. If he feels it is unsafe to catch, he ounches. If he ever has any doubts that he might not reach the ball before the attacker, he holds his ground. He makes himself big, and uses his height to his advantage. He is a great shot stopper, and must not puch out, but push round the post. Our defence will be well disciplined today. No risks at all will be taken. We are likely to be facing a lone striker, in the face of Jovetic. We know how to deal with Jovetic, instructing Bonucci to keep his eye on him the whole time, and he has the presence to deal with Jovetic. Bonucci is not slowm, and together, he and Nastasic must team up together to unsettle and isolate Jovetic. Martinez will act as a guard to our backline, preventing any pass to being played to the striker, and pressing down every ball, before helping to deal with him at set pieces. Nastasic is the quickest CB on our team, and this helps a lot, as he is tall and is great at passing. He must stay calm in the LCB position, and keep an eye out for any shots coming in, where he must throw his body on the line. Every time there comes a set piece, we want Nastasic to stay on the back post, and Zieler to cover the near post. Martinez takes on Jovetic with Bonucci, whilst we get men back to deal with the rest of their team. At Fullback, we have two of the best in the Bundesliga. Carvajal, known for his brilliant tackling and crossing skills will stay tight on LW, who we believe will be Willian. Willian likes to cut in on his favourite right, but this is to Carvajal's advantage, as we have made sure that when Willian cuts in, Carvajal commits himself fully for the ball, or backing Willian using his suprior body strength. No cheap freekicks must be given, and we can't give them an oppotinity to dive. Attacking wise, Carvajal will run as fast as he can when the ball breaks to him, looking to play short 1-2's to confuse opppresors. One great news for Carvajal is the opposition LB (Gibbs) is injured, therefore leaving JET with no choice but to play Ben davies, who will struggle with Gotze and Carv teaming up on him. At LB, we have Schmelzer at last, and he will deal with his team mate Kuba. Schmezler knows Kuba inside out due to their RL connections, and this will be an added bonuc, as Schmezler will know exactly what Kuba will do, just before he does it. He has experience dealing with Kuba, and must track all of his runs, and rush back as soon as there is any sign of a counter. 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 Nastasic is dynamic and will carry the ball forward, and he 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 Schmelzer 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 Matic. Matic is best known for his brilliant tackling and passing skills, great physical presence, and fantastic drive, so he will play in the DM role-to guard the backline alongside Martinez against Villa's midfield 3-, before turning into a kind of B2B when needed. We will target the weak link in Villa's midfield-De Rossi. He has not been himself over the last year and a half, and we must take full advantage of this, and go for him. Matic must drive forward, and use his strength to beat him, whilst Marchisio will add that touch of flair and cleverness to escape his man. Marchisio will be playing the AM role today. His job is crucial to the team, as he will sit just in front of the DM (De Rossi), and will look to get the ball up to Lewandowski. Marchisio will create that extra magic that is needed to unlock defences, whilst Matic 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. Marchisio 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 De Rossi and Wilshere as he will have a top class AM all over him, pressing him back towards his own defence. Marchisio will be in support of Robert Lewandowski at all times. He will look to pick the ball up from midfield, and direct those power shots into the corners. He will also look to use his good passing to find ways to release Gotze and El Sahaarawy. Gotze's job will be to run at the LB (Ben Davies?) and really beat him, as this is Villa's weakest spot in the team. Wthout Gibbs, they are forced to play Davies in there, who has no chance against Gotze, who will take him on, and whip in low balls for Lewandowski and El Shaarawy, who are both guaranteed to finish them off. His pace is his best asset, and is clearly faster than Davie, so will look to take him on and beat him every time he gets the ball. Davies is very attacking and guilty of leaving behind many gaps, so Gotze will have lots of space available to him. El Shaarawy 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 Lewandowski and SES to throw themself at. Lewandowski will be the one who will finish off every move. 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 Gotze and El Sahaarawy. Alongside him, Marchisio is the one to drop into midfield and harry De Rossi, putting pressure on him. He has immense pressing ability and is fast, so will trouble the defence all day. Both CBs come up for corners to put pressure on their CBs


Freekicks - Gotze
Penalties - Lewandowski
Corners - Gotze
Captain - Lewandowski

Defence: We will start off in a 4-4-2 formation, relying on Carvajal and Schmezler to do what they do best, and really attack the flanks, with Gotze and El Sahaarawy playing as wingers, instructed to drift 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 Marchisio will be lurking. On the other side, Criscito is defensive-minded, but is a terrific dribbler, so he must look to take on his man, and venture into the Villa half as much as possible, and look to play short 1-2's with the likes of Natic and Martinez. Both of these Fullbacks must come back at all times, to prevent Brum from hurting us on the counter. Alongside them, Nastasic and Bonucci are a strong a pairing as any. They are a real force to be reckoned with, and not only is Nastasic one of the fastest CBs around, 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. 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 Nasatsic will not be beaten by crosses, high or low, as Nastasic attacks the first ball, and failing that, Bonucci will clean up. We will be playing a moderate line where Villa will struggle to break down, as it limits their pacy wingers (Kuba and Willian) to run in behind the defence. Javi Martinez will be expected to drop back a notch, when they attack, where he can keep his eyes on Ramsey and Wilshere and will act as a sweeper, with Schmelzer and Carvajal pushing up further:

--------Bonucci----Nastasic
-Carvajal----Martinez---Schmelzer

Moving on from defence, we will be playing a lovely mix of midfielders in our central 3. On his return Javi Martinez will be the most defensive of the lot, pulling all the strings from defensive midfield. His excellent vision, and eye of the needle passes will help unlock Villa's defence, as we look to play in Gotze and El Sahaarawy, whilst Gotze and El Shaarawy must drop back to receive short passes, before passing it on again. As he is a natural DM, Javi Martinez 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 Matic, who will start deep to contain Villa's weak midfield, but later go on to turn box to box when on attack. However, Matic must never 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. Matic 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 Sahaarawy with sly passes and through balls, to try and find a way in behind Villas defence.

Our 4-2-3-1 formation contain Villa's attacks down the centre of the pitch. However, Marchisio's role is crucial to our team. He is the one that brings all the power to the table and with superb passing skills and quick thinking ability, his main aim will be to slip in one of our wingers once he drops into midfield. If there comes a time when the ball breaks to him, he must use his surprisingly quick feet to slip away from defenders and find space, and he must not forget that he will almost always have support in Lewandowski. All midfielders should be able to cover our Fullback's runs, so if Schmezleris caught out, we must rely on Maticto move into his position, and cover for him, and same with Marty on the other side. This will ensure that we will always have our full backs cover

Up ahead, Gotze and El Sahaarawy start as wingers, with strict instructions to revert to a 4-2-4 when we need more bodies attacking centrally. In this formation change, we will be relying more on Carvajal and Schmezler to stay back at all times, as with Gotze and El Sahaarawy playing forward roles, we don't want lack width at all:


Down the right, 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 where he can rape De Rossi, 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/SES, or the feet of Marchisio, but also should look to set up Matic, who will no doubt be lurking just outside the box, for a volley or long shot. On the other side, El Sahaarawy 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 Birmingham. 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 Marchisio will see the 2 combining well, as El Sahaarawy is fantastic at finding his man, whilst Marchisio's passing is extremely good for a striker. If any chance falls to El Shaarawy, 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 change to a 4-2-4 or a 4-4-1-1, he and Gotze must turn central, in the roles of an wide forward, drifting in only when they have a goalscoring opportunity. Likewise, when we implement a 4-4-1-1, they will both automatically hug the touchline deep inside the Villa half, just ahead of the FB, to shut out Kuba and Willian.

NOTE: El Sahaarawya and Gotze will start off as wingers, but as soon as we do a formation switch, they will act as almost wingbacks in the 4-4-1-1, or RWF/LWF in the 4-2-4, before reverting as we do

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 against 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 and SES' 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 Marchisio 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 Matic will sit deeper at DM, 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 Marchisio 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 Gotze, Carvajal and El Shaarawy then the opposition can always expect the unexpected.

Subs:

If winning 60mins: Griezmann > Matic, Marchisio CM, Gotze AM, Griezmann RW

If winning 75mins: Papadopoulos > El Shaarawy, play 5-4-1

If drawing/losing at 70mins: Draxler > SES

If losing/drawing at 60mins: Lukaku > Matic, 4-4-2, Marchisio CM, Lukkau CF

89mins: Rodwell > Martinez

-----------------------------Patricio--------------------------------
-----Kelly----------Rami----------Benatia-------Enrique------
-----------------Fernandinho------Carrick--------------------
------------------------------Fellaini-----------------------------
------Moura---------------------------------------Rodriguez--
------------------------------Kiessling---------------------------

We’re playing a an attacking side, and this is a match that we must win to pick up momentum. Playing a attacking side, you would perhaps expect us to try and match them in style, however this is not the Hull way and we are going to stick to what we know best. Rather we are going to stick to our well-honed tactics of direct, attacking football, seeking from getting from A -> Goal in one swift move. We want to get the ball forwards in a quick fashion to ensure that they are on the back foot at all times. This quick, forward passing (not long ball, but fluid decisive action taking) will mean that they do not have a chance to think and therefore will be caught out in what in what is the weakest aspect of their side defence. The constant reloading of direct attacking will mean that they have no respite, and the movement and fluidity of our play will mean they are dragged out of position and thus opportunities will arise. It should also be noted that we have a very disciplined side, and thus they will not be worried by any lack of possession that we suffer from, constantly sticking to our pressing game to allow them little space to play their triangles in.

Patricio is an experienced goalkeeper, renowned for his organisational and shot stopping abilities he will be looking to exert his authority on this side as he seeks to claim the no 1 jersey. He will organise the defence, ensuring they remain as a cohesive unit. He will be claiming any balls into the box (whether coming off of his line to sweeped through balls as they attempt to play through us from deep or whipped crosses) and thus will be able to exert his authority in the match, allowing the defence to play with confidence. A superb shot stopper, he will be able to keep any dangerous shots out, always looking to protect his goal.


Much of the danger that they offer going forwards is out wide, and through pace as they offer pace and the ability to get involved in the passing play and create space. Thus we have named our two speediest full backs (Kelly and Enrique), both with extreme defensive nous to cover them. With their developed communication they will be able to effectively decide which full back joins in our attacks and who stays in defence (as they will only be given license to go forward individually, with priority given to Enrique as he looks to provide width down our left hand side beyond the cutting inside nature of Rodriguez). However, the full backs should remember that their primary role is to defend. We want them to stick as tight to their winger as possible, and show them on to their weaker foot, meaning it will be difficult for them to produce anything, even when breaking at speed. A minimum of three men in defence (With only 1 FB attacking at any given time) means our worst defensive scenario is a 3 on 3. We will never be outnumbered. This is abetted by our fast, clever and strong defensive partnership of Rami and Benatia. Rami will have the primary role of picking up the runs of the AMC that they play from deep into the box, who is going to break from deep. Meanwhile, Benatia is our man who will step up from defence and look to ‘sweep’ any balls away. If they play a main striker, we want Benatia to be the defender to pick him up as he has both the pace and the strength to deal with him. From defensive set pieces we want our two centre backs to pick up their strongest and most significant attacking threats, whilst we would like the fullbacks to be on the post with the midfield (and wingers) each picking up a man.

Fernandinho is a world class midfielder who has everything about his game. The first role that he has is to be there to break up their play whenever they get hold of the ball and to pick up the AMC and any runs from deep. However, the Brazillian also has license to express himself with his passing game and an ability to join in attacksl Therefore he is going to be a fundamental platform from which we will be able to rebuild and launch our fresh waves of attacks with dangerous passes and areas into space, or towards player in space. Meanwhile, we are asking Carrick to adopt his traditional role that he plays for Man Utd. Sitting deep and dictating the play is going to be his leitmotif today. With a wide array of passing skills and a sense of anticipation, Carrick is effectively the heartbeat of this side. It is likely that a defensive midfielder will be attempting to pick him up, however their midfield will always have to also deal with Fernanidnho and Fellaini and as we outnumber them in the centre of the park (Their wingers are not able to tuck in and aid defensively) he will have plenty of space. When on the ball, Carrick should look to quickly and directly get the ball to players in space to get us going forwards again. Also, with a venomous long shot he has the license to test the keepers hands every now and again. This presence is key to the ‘transistional’ phase of our play to defence and attack, and where necessary he has the skill to hold the play up and allow others to create space for themselves through movement. In addition to these two, we have Fellaini. The presence of Fellaini will effectively mean that they are overrun in midfield. This will mean that one of our midfielders is consistently in space, and thus we will be able to fashion opportunities. As well as abetting the pressing game, Fellaini will be key to us going forwards. We want him to break from deep and target the edge of the area as an end zone, meaning that he will effectively be an oulet for the widemen and Kiessling to link up with when we break forwards. He is given license to stand further forwards today, and thus is in many ways the ‘trequarista’ as he looks to make runs into space, feed in our wingers and Kiessling behind the defence with through balls and test the keeper himself. He has a dangerous eye for goal, and thus is given license to rifle away shots. He will be the difference between the sides today, as when we get forwards they won’t be able to track him.

Our widemen are potent players, who offer dynamism and two very different types of threat for their defence to deal with. Their full backs are defensively falliable, and whilst they call for tracking back this is not 100% reliable and thus we want a high majority of our play to go out wide in order to stretch their defence cause difficult decisions to be made and create space for Kiessling, as this will be an area we are exploiting. On the right, Moura will be looking to beat his man and get to the byline before whipping the ball into the box, either to the onrushing Rodriguez/Fellaini or towards Kiessling who will be able to fashion the chance into a goal. On the other hand, Rodriguez is going to be the most creative, fluid and thus dangerous player on the pitch. He is tricky and skilful and thus should look to use this to bamboozle their defence. Already having to deal with Kiessling, their defence will be torn apart by the fact that down the left, the FB will have to deal with Enrique & Rodriguez whilst their labouring centrebacks (already stretched by our movement of the ball out wide) will be forced to deal with a choice between who picks up Kiessling and Fellaini , whilst having to also deal with Rodriguez cutting inside as well as the possibility of Fernandinho breaking from deep to join in our quick passages of play. Therefore, in addition to having an extra man in midfield, with Fellaini arriving and Rodriguez being a player who cuts inside and either feeds in the striker who fashions his own chances we will have more attackers than their defenders despite their defensive outlook. As a defence mechanism, our wingers will be standing high up the pitch, meaning that a) they are an outlet for us as we have our direct style of attacking play from deep and b) their full backs will not be able to venture forwards in aiding their counter-attacks otherwise they will be further exposed at the back.

Stefan Kiessling also comes into our side this week. The German offers something different to our attack and won't be the striker that they expect us to start with. We felt it key to have a more physical presence up front in order to push their defence backwards and create space for our midfield to play in. Additionally, Kiessling is a deadly finisher and he will be determined to score the goals that give us the victory today. We want him to be the target of our play, and to get onto the end of any crossess and through balls that come his way, as he is a deadly finisher (top scorer in 2012/13 Bundesliga) who can convert these chances into goals.

--------------------------Cech
Johnson---Hummels-------Agger-----Blind
----------------Denisov--------Inler
-----------------------Schweiny
Robben------------------------------------Ribery
----------------------Gomez
Subs
Begovic, De Vrij, Juanfran, Payet, Salvio, Modric, Auby

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 looking to cut inside fairly regularly, so the full backs should look to hug the touchlines to keep the defence stretched and provide the out ball. 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 with the striker for the aerial balls played up to him, with Agger looking to snaffle the resulting knockdown, when the ball is on the floor, Agger will be the defender who looks to stand up the striker looking to keep tight to him and stifling his space to get the ball out of his feet, and Garay will be making a covering run if Agger is beaten. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should look to take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space and retain possession.

Defensive Midfielders
Denisov will look to just sit in front of the back 4, staying deep when the full backs go forward to keep defensive numbers up in case of a counter attack, when numbers are healthy at the back, he should be looking to hover close to the opposition am/playmaker, making sure there isnt an easy ball for him to pick up.

Inler will be the more adventurous of the 2, when defending, he will do a direct man marking job on the opposition AM, not letting him get any space all day, even following him to the touchline when he eventually gets hooked off to make sure he is weeping as he leaves the pitch.

When attacking, they will look to take the ball off the centre backs and most of the time play it simply to one of the other midfielders, if the opposition start to play higher up the field and keep close tabs on our midfielders, they should look to play a lofted ball to Gomez to exploit the area between defence and midfield and allow the wingers to get into the game.

Centre Mids
Schweiny will play a solely attacking game, as there are 2 defensive heads behind him, so he will be looking to get himself into little pockets of space free to get the ball and keep the game ticking over, if he is getting closely marked, he should look to play slightly deeper to create more space for himself, and if the ankle biters follow him, that will create a gap between the defence and midfield for the front 3 to exploit. When defending, Schweiny will just look to get in the face of the oppositions creative CM to keep him hurried on the ball and try to create more errors.

Wingers
They should look to stay as wide as possible when they receive the ball to try and stretch the defensive line. When they are 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 the wide 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 Gomez or a simple drag back to Schweiny. 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.

Occasionally, the 2 wingers will swap wings, where the emphasis will be more on crosses for 5-10 minute periods a few times during the match.

Striker
When defending, he should look to hover around the area of the opposition DM, trying to prevent the easy out of a pass back to him. When attacking, he shouldn't look to get too involved in build up play, just acting as a target man to give the back 5 the option of playing a lofted ball to him and hold the ball up for the wingers or CMs to get into the attacking area, when he has passed the ball, he should just look to get alongside the aerially weaker CB and be ready for crosses and look to feed on any panicky defensive blocks or weak goalkeeper parries and play the reak poachers role.

Set Pieces
Corners - Robben and Ribery take inswinging corners, the 2 CB's go into the box, Blind and Denisov stay back to prevent counters, the CB's, Inler and Gomez attack the ball, Schweiny looks to annoy the opposition keeper looking to limit his ability to move off the goalline. Johnson and the non taking winger take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.

Free Kicks - For direct FK's Robben and Ribery will shoot depending on which foot it favours, With Agger providing the occasional 3rd option to UNLEASH THE KRAKEN!!!!!!. For Indirect FKs, follow the same directives for Corners

Penalties - Robben is the designated taker.

Subs

If Winning
68 mins - Salvio for Robben - Fresh legs and extra defensive workrate.

76 mins - Modders and Auby for Schweiny and Gomez - The wingers tuck back, but with the knowledge to get out quickly for the front 3 to try and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game as Auby brings added pace for counter attacks.

If Losing

71 mins - Modders for Inler - extra attacking impetus in the midfield

77 Mins - Auby and Payet for Robben and Denisov - We go to 4-2-4, with the wingers bombarding crosses in to the 2 big men with the other winger adding the third option.

-----------------------Akinfeev
Jung---Alderweireld---Mangala---Nagatomo
----------------Inan------------Pogba
Dzagoev--------Kokorin---------Mertens
------------------------Sow
Subs
Clyne, Lombaerts, Schneiderlin, Wijnaldum, Allen, Natkho, Doumbia

Tactics
A 4-2-3-1 formation based on defending as a team when off the ball but with enough attacking flair to keep the opposition honest when on the ball.

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 looking to cut inside fairly regularly, so the full backs should look to hug the touchlines to keep the defence stretched and provide the out ball. 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
Alderweireld will compete with the striker for the aerial balls played up to him, with Mangala looking to snaffle the resulting knockdown, when the ball is on the floor, Mangala will be the defender who looks to stand up the striker looking to keep tight to him and stifling his space to get the ball out of his feet, and Alderweireld will be making the covering run. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should look to take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space and retain possession.

Defensive Midfielders
Inan will look to just sit in front of the back 4, staying deep when the full backs go forward to keep defensive numbers up in case of a counter attack, when numbers are healthy at the back, he should be looking to hover close to the opposition am/playmaker, making sure there isnt an easy ball for him to pick up.

Pogba will be the more adventurous of the 2, when defending, he will drift forward and keep tabs on the opposition playmaker without being overly aggressive and giving away fouls in pressure areas,

When attacking, they will look to take the ball off the centre backs and most of the time play it simply to one of the other midfielders, with Pogba being the more adventurous of the 2, if the opposition start to play higher up the field and keep close tabs on our midfielders, they should look to play a lofted ball to Sow to exploit the area between defence and midfield and allow the wingers to get into the game.

Wingers
They should look to stay as wide as possible when they receive the ball to try and stretch the defensive line. when they have the ball, the options will be to either stay out wide and have the option of just drilling a cross to Sow with Kokorin staying around the edge of the box to provide the drag back option. or to cut inside to provide a more simple option for the other front 3 or themselves, if they do cut inside, the full backs should look to move forward to provide the wide option. If the defenders are backing off from them, they shouldnt be afraid to go into the box, as defenders will be extra cautious to not give away a penalty, and this should give them a chance to make a bit of spce for themselves to take a shot or a pass to a player in a better position. 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.

Attacking Midfielder
Kokorin will be buzzing around just off the striker, looking to play the classic Lampard role of late runs into the box to surprise the defence. When our wingers cut inside, he should hang back slightly to make those late runs. When defending, he should keep tabs on the DMs, not letting a simple ball be played to them.

Striker
When defending, he should look to hover around the area of the CB's, putting a bit of pressure on them to try and force an error. When attacking, he should be looking to be the most advanced player, occasionally dropping back to help link up play, but recognising when a lofted ball will be played to him he should play with his back to goal and hold off the CB's to give time for others to come into play when he has passed the ball, he should just look to get alongside the aerially weaker CB and be ready for crosses.

Set Pieces
Corners - Dzagoev will take inswinging corners, the 2 CB's go into the box, the FB's and Inan stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Sow attack the ball, Kokorin looks to annoy the opposition keeper looking to limit his ability to move off the goalline. Pogba and Mertens take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.

Free Kicks - For direct FK's Inan will shoot. For Indirect FKs, follow the same directives for Corners

Penalties - Inan is the designated taker.

Subs

If Winning
68 mins - Schneiderlin for Kokorin - Morgan sits behind the current 2 DM's. adding further defensive strength

76 mins - Lombaerts and Allen for Jung and Pogba - Aldi goes to RB, Allen is a more calming presence than Pogba so will look to add an element of calmness when the midfield 3 have the ball, and the front 3 all have the pace and ability to trouble on counter attacks.

If Losing

71 mins - Natkho for Pogba - given more attacking impetus than Pogba

77 Mins - Clyne and Doumbia for Jung and Kokorin - We go to 4-2-4, with the wingers bombarding crosses in to the strikers with the full backs also pushing up.

--------------Courtois
Piszczek--Cahill--Dante--Marcelo
---------------Matuidi
------Ramires--------De Bruyne
Lamela-------------------------Villa
---------------Martinez

Subs: Alves, Kalas, Marrone, Beñat, Baptistao, Hernandez, Cavani

Captain: Dante
Free Kicks: De Bruyne
Penalties: David Villa
Corners: De Bruyne

Game Plan:
The game plan is simple today, we don't expect to be able to dominate this game, we will instead defend in numbers, playing a very strong pressing game and looking to stop them from being able to pass forward into space, instead forcing them to have to play at a slow tempo that can't hurt us. We close the man on the ball down in packs of 3 very quickly to stop him from causing any damage and as soon as we win the ball we attack on the counter using the pace in our team. We can't spend the whole game defending though so for the first 20 minutes look to take the game to them, getting the ball into the box and flooding the area to try and get a goal. After that we look to stay more solid. In the second half we start the same attack minded approach unless we're losing in which case we won't go all out we'll look to get hold of the ball more and attack more effectively. At the end of the game in the last 10 minutes we'll have a go at them and see what we can get front this game.

Tactics:

Courtois will command his area, being quick off his line to come and collect crosses, relieving pressure and quick to come out and get to the ball if a striker gets beyond the CBs. With his distribution we want him getting it our quickly towards the attackers if there is a chance of a counter.

The back 4 must stay in line at all times, stepping up and dropping back together, looking to make sure Arsenal can't get in behind and hurt us, we can't switch off to their threat. Dante will command the defence and make sure this is carried out. There is a lot of pace in this Arsenal side so we will defend deep to try and nullify this threat, any space behind the defence will be easily coverable by the fast Courtois. We can't however play this deep and just back off them leaving them space to shoot, they must be closed down by the midfielders or defenders if they're in space to shoot.

The FBs will have to stick very tight to the wingers today and look to push them right out and keep them there. It is important they don't let the wide men get a run on them, instead face up to them and force them to stay right out on the touchline or go backwards, never let them get away to put free crosses in and most importantly, particularly if Ronaldo is out wide, do not let them cut inside and shoot and work towards goal. Follow them both everywhere, don't dive in on them just stand up to them and don't leave any space for them to shoot or run at our defence. They must stay with them at all times, unless they fall right back in which case just leave them to do so they can't hurt us if they're deep, but as soon as they're in a position to get the ball and have a run at our defence we are on them like a flash, not allowing them free runs into space. If the wingers start inside looking to get the ball then they are left to the midfield to press, we bring our wingers inside as well to add extra bodies to midfield and allow the FBs to deal with the opposition FBs the same way they would with wingers. If the wingers do step inside as well as the FBs we will have a midfielder coming across to quickly close them down and make sure they can't get a shot away.

Attack wise we don't want them pushing forward too much as they have a lot of defending to do. However when we do get forward they will be able to attack when the attack builds down their side, meaning we always have plenty back in position to deal with an Arsenal break. They both love to get beyond the winger and that's what they'll do when they are able to move forward, getting beyond the winger and using their pace to get down the outside or the inside into crossing positions or dangerous areas in the box.

The CBs will keep together, staying in line and making sure they play a strong offside trap and not allow anyone to get in on goal which they can do very well when playing deep. Cahill will mark the main striker, using his strength and good reading of the game. He should get tight when the striker is in dangerous positions, not allowing him to turn and run towards goal run off him, always stay in him and be looking to be physical and keep him from being able to control the ball and bring people into play, dominating on the ground and in the air. When the striker drops off let him go and instead pick up the midfielder furthest forward, doing the same job on them. Dante will be the one stopping the midfield runners either from the centre or from the wide players. He's always there as an extra body to deal with danger, reading the game well and getting in position to deal with the danger. Make sure no one can get goal side of our defence and always be ready to step out and make a tackle to break attacks down. He also deals with crosses and is alert to anything that gets past Cahill. They must always be alert in the box, Courtois makes saves no one would expect and they need to be ready to clear the danger.

The midfield 3 are key to us today. They are very energetic players who excel in pressing the opposition all over midfield, in numbers and not allowing any of them to get a proper grip of the game. This is their main job, to provide the foundation for our solidity at the back as well as our efficiency on the counter. We are expecting that Arsenal try to dominate the ball today but a lack of sustained possession won't hurt us. These three stay in position and stop that midfield getting enough time and space to work chances, getting in their faces throughout and disrupting the rhythm. Matuidi will be the one player who is able to step out of this pressing game and cover the run of the most attack minded midfielder, he won't let them get space in and around the box and he won't leave them to make runs into our box to attack crosses. He stays very tight to the AM and gets the tackles in to stop him using the ball. Ramires and KDB will always stay in this system, they won't get dragged out they will put the pressure on when the player closest to them has the ball, don't be confused by the oppositions movement, allow them to switch positions in midfield, every other space will be closed off anyway so they won't be able to get in behind. All we have to do is close them down when they get the ball and keep forcing the sideways passes rather than giving them the space to play forward. When we win the ball these 3 will be looking to launch the counters, all 3 have an great range of passing or incredible pace, able to pick a pass from anywhere or drive us forward and should be looking to release our attacking players quickly and into space so we can get at the opposition whilst they don't have players back. Matuidi won't get forward, he will sit in the midfield and stop any counters. Ramires has a license to play as a box to box midfielder in the spells we have set up to attack the opposition, using his excellent driving runs to push us forward, he gets into positions where he can open up the defence with a clever pass and alongside KDB he can control the game, finding space and making his runs in behind the defence, especially on the counter. KDB when we attack is the one who has to run things, he's able to attack both in the set spells and in the counter attacks, getting forward and using his passing and excellent dribbling skills to open up the opposition and most importantly adding an extra body in the box when the crosses come in, looking to find space for a team mate to pick him out or waiting and ready to pounce on any loose balls. His movement when we are controlling the game and looking to attack is vital he must be working around keeping the ball moving and finding the way to unlock the defence.

The two wingers will be key to what we do going forward. They must both hold the width when the counters start looking to stretch the game, however Villa will have a license to move around once the counter is in full swing, looking to make diagonal runs in behind the defenders which can really hurt Arsenal. He's the one who will look to get close to Martinez when we have to clear it upfield and hit them quickly, looking to work with him to open things up for a chance. Lamela will be the more direct of the two, looking to drive into space when he gets the ball, always looking to take the LB on and beat him to get crosses in or cut past him and slide in a clever ball or work his way towards goal. They should use the runs of the FBs to really open up the arsenal back line.

These two both have to do their defensive work and we know they will. When the opposition wingers come central these two will go central too, adding to the numbers and defending against the CM/DMs by stopping them getting time to dictate the game. This allows our other midfielders to deal with the extra numbers and stop the wingers causing trouble when they attack through the middle. The FBs will be able to then deal with any attacking threat from opposition FBs if they play any. When the opposition wingers are keeping wide our own wingers will drop back, they must do their defensive duties by dropping back and helping out our FBs either in dealing with the run of an opposition FB or doubling up on the opposition wingers and making it difficult for them to step inside, whilst a CM can also come across and add a third player to get past if its needed.

Martinez is in the side as he provides the extra pace as well as great strength which we think can really hurt the CBs. He can hold the ball up and look to bring into play the players supporting him before using his clever movement to make runs past the defenders to get in goal. He will look to use his pace to full effect on counters, either able to run away from defenders and open up space for someone to play him in, or he can run at the back 4 and play others in on goal or take the defenders on. When he is left alone he holds the ball up and looks to have a go at the defenders, using his pace against two slower paced CBs or if he's got nowhere to go he can draw the fouls and win the free kicks high up the pitch for the team as we can be lethal from set pieces with players like Cahill.

Subs:

If Winning: Beñat for Villa 70', KDB goes left to provide more cover for Marcelo. Marrone for Matuidi 75', fresh legs in DM to deal with the attacks. Kalas for Lamela 85', Piszczek go to RM and we get everyone behind the ball and shut the game out.

If Drawing: Cavani for Martinez 70' comes on and looks to get us the winning goal. Beñat for De Bruyne 75', fresh legs in midfield. Baptistao for Villa 80', can be our secret weapon and look to really go at the RB for the final 10 minutes.

If Losing: Cavani for Villa 65', Martinez goes LW. Baptistao and Hernandez for Marcelo and Martinez 70', 3-5-2

Courtois
Piszczek Cahill Dante
Ramires Matuidi
Lamela Baptistao KDB
Cavani Hernandez

With only 5 games left this is a must win game, we end the season with three tough games so need to put ourselves in a great position. After a season of rancid endeavor we cannot allow the Pesky Southern sides to steal a march on us.

-------------- Buffon
Rafael – Skrtel – Pepe – Filipe
-------- Gerrard – Pirlo
Hamsik ---- Banega --- Lavezzi
-------------- Tevez

Subs. Cesar, Adriano, Sandro, Ox, Young, Eto’o, Dzeko

Attacking 4-2-3-1. Win the midfield battle, control the middle of the park dominating possession. As always look to be rigid in defence and fluid in attack. Plenty of width. Direct and fast flowing football. Very hard pressing when the opposition have possession in our own half.

We’ve opted to not go with a natural dm in this match, with 3 players in the centre of the park we feel we’ve got more than enough cover and this will add to our fluidity going forward and help us control the game. Gerrard’s played the dm role for England recently and with Pirlo next to him we’ll have more than enough cover in front of the defence.
Defence:
Key to our defence today is dominating possession, if the opposition don’t have the ball they can’t hurt us. Controlling possession will mean Soton do all the running and tire, simple.
One full back bombs forward at a time. The other is reserved but in a position ready to join the attack. Rafael will be the more attacking of the two. Skrtel looks to read the play, Pepe to challenge and has the pace to get back and help Skrtel/fullbacks. Buffon bossing the defence from the back.

When the opposition are attacking we want two lines of four. 4-4-1-1 when defending. Hamsik/Lavezzi take turns of being the one behind Tevez. This one will follow the play from left to right.
One of Pirlo/Gerrard stay reserved when we attack, this flexibility in the side will give us more fluidity and gives us the option to play it back and switch the play quickly. Defensively Gerrard and Pirlo have the intelligence to be well positioned.

Our attacking players have high energy levels and work rates. We want to defend from the front where possible. Playing in a solid fashion where everyone knows they need to be allows us to play a high pressure game, pressing as far up the pitch as possible. But crucially players must stay in their positions and work as a unit in pressing.

Attack.
Rafael will be the full back we want bombing forward more often than Filipe. This will allow Hamsik to drift in from the right. Creating space for Rafael to exploit, pulling players out of position and overloading the middle where the Soton defence wont know what to do.
On the left we want Lavezzi to play very wide in the first two thirds. Stretch the play and coming from a position where he can really get in behind the opposition back line. In the final third he has freedom to drift in if he wants and really support Tevez.

In the centre we’ve got three players who love to get on the ball, they will be the heartbeat of our play. Gerrard and Pirlo bringing the ball out of defence and have the ability to play it long immediatley putting Soton on the back foot. Banega has the ability in the final third to thread the through balls for our attacking players.

Today we want the trio to generally be patient, but we don’t want to dampen their creativity. Gerrard and Pirlo have the composure to keep our play ticking over and keep things moving but also have the ability and freedom to play long raking balls, diagonals and through balls. Our attacking trio players are intelligent to find space and full of pace to exploit the opposition, Gerrard/Pirlo are the perfect players to play behind them.
Banega and Gerrard can also switch positions at times with Banega switching to a deeper role. Our quality and fluidity in the centre of the park should make it even more difficult for Soton to match us.

Tevez up top is also going to simply play his natural game. He will be a real handful as he likes to get involved, making him almost a false 9 at times. While he also has the drive and intelligence to make runs in behind. Has the perfect trio behind him to link up with.

Set Pieces: Pirlo
Captain: Stevie Gee
On the bench we have real quality, and everything you could want to change the game be it go defensive(aye right), inject pace, bring on a goalscoer or creativity.

If winning after 65 mins bring on Sandro for Gerrard.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Young for Banega. Fluid attacking trio behind Tevez, Lavezzi through middle with Young on left.
If winning after 76 mins bring on Eto’o for Tevez.

If losing after 45 or drawing after 60 mins bring on Sandro for Banega and Dzeko for Pirlo. 4-2-3-1 with Tevez behind Dzeko. Attack!

If losing after 65 or drawing after 75 bring on Eto’o for Hamsik.

Serge Aurier - 1 weeks
Sebastien Coates - 2 weeks
Andre-Pierre-Gignac - 1 weeks
Jerome Boateng - 3 weeks

--------------------Szczesny-------------------
---Zabaleta----Ivanovic----Godin----Kolarov
----------------Mikel-----Moutinho------------
Walcott------------Oscar--------Hazard-
---------------------Higuain--------------------

Subs: Al Habsi, Marquinhos, Valbuena, Milner, Callejon, Llorente, Koke

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

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. They will allow the opposition wingers inside them as this will take them into traffic. We are vulnerable on the wings as Walcott and Hazard don’t really like tracking back so if we force the opposition wingers inside this will be better for us. 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 Ivanovic will stay close to each other not allowing the opposition to open up space. Ivanovic 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 Ivanovic does 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. Moutinho will be his partner who will play close to him when defending. He has the responsibility in helping out the full backs also. Defensively be solid, Mikel and Moutinho will sit deep and defend our back four. When the attack is on their side, they will drift over and team up with our full back, close them down and win the ball back. Moutinho will look to protect the LB and Mikel the RB. However ultimately, they must stay tight in the middle and look to give no space to the opposition etc. When one of them covers a full back then Oscar drops in to still make it two in the middle:
-------------------------------Kolarov
---------Mikel----Oscar-----Moutinho
Walcott

This leaves Walcott and Hazard free which is where our main threat is and where we are dangerous.

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 losing at 75mins –
Mikel off Milner on
Moutinho off Callejon on – Hazard AM

80mins:
Ivanovic off Llorente on
3-5-2

If Drawing 75mins:
Moutinho off for Callejon – Oscar deeper, Hazard AM

If winning 75mins:
Walcott off for Milner, Oscar RW
Higuain off for Llorente,

If Keeper gets sent off then AM comes off for keeper on bench
In this case: Moutinho > Szczesny 4-2-2-2
If Defender gets sent off then AM comes off for Defender on bench
In this case: Moutinho > Marquinhos – Ivanovic RB/Lb if needed. If DM gets sent off (Mikel/Moutinho) then AM for DM on bench
If st gets sent off, the AM for St on bench
In this case: Oscar > Llorente

Same tactics as last week for Wigan please

Wigan Athletic:

----------------------------Muslera
--Litchsteiner-----Albiol----Abdennour----Vrsaljko
-------------Mauricio Isla-------Capoue
------Gaitan------------Grenier---------Coutinho
----------------------Lazar Markovic

Subs: Markovic, Ansaldi, Astori, Nainggolan, Diego, Cerci, Valero

Freekicks: Grenier
Corners: Isla
Penalties: Gaitan
Captain: Litch



Defence: Licht and Vrsaljko are very very good at attacking, so must look to go for Oppo's FB, and get down the flanks and offer support to Coutinho and Gaitan. They must not neglect defensive duties, whilst Isla and Capoue must cover for their FB's, if they go too advanced. In the centre, Albiol and Abdennour 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, Capoue will play DM, and he 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 Carrick, 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 opposition players. Alongside him, Isla will be playing the dictator role. Isla must pull of those stunning passes that see him cut open defences, and must supply the front 3 with deadly balls. His passing has the ability to go long or short, he must control the tempo of our play. Ahead of these two CM's, we have Gaitan, Coutinho and Grenier. We plan on giving Grenier a free role in behind Markovic, as I believe he is good enough for that role, as he is nippy, 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 Markovic to take into his stride. He must always give Markovic support so he isn't isolated. To his right, Gaitan 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. Gaitan is a great passer, with brilliant vision, so must look to pass the ball around, and offer quality crosses for the likes of Markovic. On the other side, Coutinho has Two gifted feet and a great eye for a pass, and must take on his man and beat him every time, whilst also giving those dream passes, flicking them into Grenier or Markovic path. He must cut inside, giving plenty of space for Adriano to run wild in, whilst causing lots of problems for Opponents back line.

Up front, Markovic 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 45mins: Vucinic > Markovic
On 60mins, if winning: Nainggolan > Isla
On 60mins: Ansaldi > Vrsaljko, defensive change

-------------------- P.Reina -------------------

Alves -------- Vidic ---- Barzagli -------- Cole

---------- Busquets ---- Yaya Toure -------------

D.Silva -------- W.Rooney----------- C.Ronaldo

----------------- R.Van Persie ---------------------


Subs:
T.Krul
R.Varane
F.Coentrao
J.Garcia
S.Roberto
A.Schurrle
R.Palacio
---------------------------------------------------
Schurrle > Silva - 60th minute - (Ronaldo RW, Schurrle LW) - Schurrle look to get in behind their FB and link with Alves.

J.Garcia > Rooney - 70th minute - (Garcia, DM, Yaya AM) - Garcia support Busquets defensively whilst Yaya has more freedom to make his trademark runs and slice them open in the later stages)
-------------------------------------------------

Tactics:

Reina will look to stay sharp and focused and look to take command of his box. He will come out for anything within his reach and narrow the angle for opposing strikers whilst distributing possession to players in space to efficiently start attacks.

Alves and Cole start as fullbacks. They both have an extremely important role to play today as want to impose ourselves on the opposition as much as possible however they should look to carry out defensive duties when required as they take it in turns to roam forward. Alves on the right will look to push up and support Silva whenever possible, I want the typical powerful runs forwards that he’s known for that intimidate the opposition FB outmuscling and pushing him back as much as possible . He should look to get in behind on a regular basis and to the byline so Silva always has the option to stretch the play outwide when Alves is on the ball I want him to whip it into the box with pace whilst occasionally cutting inside and causing havoc. Cole on the left is the more disciplined and will make defensive duties his priority only getting forward when needed. Defensively when our opponents have the ball both fullbacks should sit tight on the opposing wingers and as soon as they receive the ball look to stop them from posing a threat. They should look to force them wide and lead them down the line then look to marshal them off the ball looking to use their pace and strength to put them off their game whilst our DM’s double up.

Vidic starts in the centre of defence and today will mark their (most) forward. Cavani relys a lot on on service based game so we want to restrict that as much as possible, I want a dominant approach from Vidic looking to engage in physical battles using his intimidating and powerful nature to get right on top of him and bully him therefore taking him out the game. Vidic must get their him as frustrated as possible looking to also isolate him and giving him nothing to work with so he’s as little threat as possible. Barzagli will start besides Vidic. He adds a calm presence in defence and complements Vidic’s style. I want him to do all the necessities plain and simple. He’ll look to watch for runners from deep, look to mark closely in the box whilst closing down rapidly. In addition looking to clear anything that comes into our box and importantly staying strong in the challenge.

Our midfield duo of Yaya and Busquets will start in the centre of the park looking to make our rearguard as tough as possible to breach. Yaya is the more physical of the two and will get into the oppositions faces looking to stamp his mark on the game. I want him constantly pressing looking to rough up and intimidate the opposition and thus putting them and their AM off their game, when in possession he should look to use his great distribution skills and vision from deep to thread through a key pass or link with others. Busquets will partner Yaya and look to throw himself about everywhere; I want him to get from A to B as quick as possible looking to recover possession and forcing them to release quickly through anticipating, pressurizing and reading the game.

Rooney will start as an AM, I want him playing in the ‘hole’ looking to pick out runs, link with others and driving further forward always supporting attacks and getting in the box. He knows how to take a game by the scruff of its neck looking to constantly get us moving forward with a pass and move and taking players out the game whilst linking with others and playing them in space. He also complements our midfield duo of Yaya and Busquets defensively, as a trio they each offer something different which will help us win the midfield battle and get as much service into our forwards as possible.

Ronaldo and Silva will start in a 4-3-3 down the flanks. Ronaldo starts on the left and he is the one who will look to penetrate their defence and create the openings today. I want us to get the ball out to him as much as possible so he can link with Cole and use his direct and skilful style to pull their defenders of position and shift the focus as much as possible. This should give the likes of RVP, Silva and Rooney more time on the ball to play their game. Ronaldo should also look to target their backline who will struggle to cope with his pace so he'll invite challenges and look for FK's in dangerous positions. Silva on the right has the license to roam, I want him drifting in and out of positions looking to receive the ball and driving at their defence looking to take players out the game. He also has a good eye for a pass and a creative nature so I want him spotting our forwards runs and playing them in behind witht he aid of Alves overlapping.

Van Persie is the perfect outlet and with an attack like ours supplying him there should be plenty of chances to convert today. I want him to use his experience and know how to get the better of their CB’s looking to get that extra yard on them whilst drawing them to him so others such as Ronaldo get the time and space to work with in dangerous positions. RVP should always look to make runs in behind and hold his own when possible holding the ball up and getting others involved whilst occasionally coming deeper to dictate the player whilst they go on beyond. The front 3 will all look to interchange making them as tough as possible to mark, we will look to target their weaknesses and find those roles where we are effectively getting maximum success.
--------------------------------------------------
Captain – Vidic
FK’s – Ronaldo
Corners – Silva
Pens – Ronaldo