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posted on 27/6/13

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

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

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

Full Backs
When going forward, the wingers will be 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 De Vrij looking to snaffle the resulting knockdown, when the ball is on the floor, Hummels 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 De Vrij will be making a 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
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.

Obiang will be the more adventurous of the 2, when defending, he will be drifting around and covering others if they are out of position. 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 Ossy to exploit the area between defence and midfield and allow the wingers to get into the game.

Centre Mids
Modders 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, he 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 Ossy or a simple drag back to Modders. 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 - Modric and Obiang take inswinging corners, the 2 CB's go into the box, Juanfran and Denisov stay back to prevent counters, the CB's, Auby and Gomez attack the ball, the non taker looks to annoy the opposition keeper looking to limit his ability to move off the goalline. Johnson and Salvio take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.

Free Kicks - For direct FK's Modders or Osvaldo 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 - Osvaldo is the designated taker.

Subs

If Winning
68 mins - Payet for Auby - Fresh legs and extra defensive workrate.

76 mins - Schweiny and Gomez for Modders and Osvaldo - 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.

If Losing

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

77 Mins - Ribery and Payet for Modric and Salvio - 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.

posted on 27/6/13

Portsmouth vs Birmingham


--------------------------Zieler--------
---Carvajal---Bonucci--Nastasic---Schmelzer
----------Javi Martinez---Marchisio--
Mario Gotze-----------------------------Draxler
------------Lewandowski---Lukaku

Subs: Koval, Danilo, Luke Shaw, El Shaarawy, Papadopoulos, Griezmann, Icardi

Game Plan: We will look to attack our opponents using a slick, pass and move game. We believe we have the abilities in defence to pass the ball out and start counter attacks, as Nastasic is dynamic and will carry the ball forward, and alongside him, Bonucci is an excellent passer of the ball, and mustn't be afraid of stepping into midfield at times to use his fantastic ball playing skills. Our two CB's must look to play the ball out if defence, as they both suit each other very well. Daniel Carvajal and 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. Marchisio is best known for his brilliant vision and passing skills, great movment in midfield, and fantastic drive, so he will play in the deep lying playmaker role-but must guard the back line alongside Martinez against what we think will be Birmingham's solid midfield 3-, before turning into a kind of B2B when needed. We wont be playing an AM, but Lukaku will be playing CF and 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 Julian Draxler. Gotze's job will be to run at Taylor/Blind, take him on, and whip in low balls for Lewandowski and Lukaku, who are both guaranteed to finish them off. His pace is his best asset, and is clearly faser than Schmelzer so will look to take bim on and beat him every time he ges the ball. Blind/Taylor is Birminmgham's biggest weakness as Clichy is out, and this is a great spot to target. Gotze will have lots of space available to him. Julian Draxler will be on the other end, and use his dazzling dribbling ability, and superb acceleration to turn away from fullbacks, and clip in high balls for Lewandowski and Lukaku 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 Draxler. Alongside him, Lukaku is the one to drop into midfield and harry Inler, putting pressure on him. He has immense strength (99 Strength on FIFA when In form FFS!) and is very fast, so wuill trouble the defence all day. Both CBs come up for corners to put pressure on their CBs

Target areas:-

RB: we will look to take advantage of Birmingham's Johnson, who is a good RB, and whilst his defensive side has improved a lot-and I am against the topic that he can't defend-he is an attacking RB, and tends to leave back gaps at times when he goes forward. Draxler works this out brilliantly, and will flourish in the freedom. It w ill be a real dream chance for Draxler to shine, with him looking to bathe in the space given to him, he will cause problems down the left, which shows we will have the advantage down both flanks

LB: Clichy is injured, and Birmingham's second/third choice LB's are no where near his level. We will specifically target the LB area, and we have deployed our best player in a position to tear it apart

DM: Although Inler is still decent, he is much more of a Box to box for Napoli than a DM so we will look to over power him and make sure Gotze and Draxler drift in to give him problems, whilst Lukaku will drop back to over power Inler. This is where the game will be won

LCB: Agger has been very poor from set pieces this season for Liverpool, so when it comes to corners, we will look to target him specifically and make runs in behind him, whilst the 2 big men from the back will come forward ready to get their heads on anything. Lukaku + Lewandowski should be hard enough to handle as it is..

RW: Robben is extremely inconsistent, but on his day is a wonder, however, we have seen that whenever he tries to come inside, he nearly always tries to go for ambitious shots, so we will specify Schmezlerto mark him down the wings and prevent any crosses, but when he comes inside, Schmelzer must keep his ground, not allowing Robben to pass him.

ST: If Gomez plays, he's had a poor season in terms of playing time, and if he plays, we will look to shut him out, and push his confidence further lower


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

Defence: We will start off in a 4-4-2 formation, relying on Carvajal and Schmelzer to do what they do best, and really attack the flanks, with Gotze and Draxler 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 Lukaku will be lurking. On the other side, Schmelzer is well balanced, but is a terrific dribbler, so he must look to take on his man, and venture into the Brimingham half as much as possible, and look to play short 1-2's with the likes of Marchisio 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 Birmingham will struggle to break down, as it limits their pacy wingers (Robben and Ribery) to run in behind the defence. Javi Martinez will be expected to drop back a notch, ala De Rossi, when they attack, where he can keep his eyes on Payer and Modric 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 Birmighams defence, as we look to play in Gotze and Draxler, whilst Gotze and Draxler 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 Marchisio, who will start deep to contain Birmingham's strong midfield, but later go on to turn box to box when on attack. However, Marchisio must never neglect defensive duties, and his immense determination and presence must combine with his pressing ability to always win the ball back when we lose it. Marchisio 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 Draxler with sly passes and through balls, to try and find a way in behind Brums defence. Ahead of him, Lukaku will be playing CF, but must also help out defensively dropping back into midfield when we are under pressure, we must revert to a 4-2-3-1


-----Marchisio--Martinez
Gotze-------Lukaku-----Draxler


As this will bring more stability to the midfield, and can contain Brums attacks down the centre of the pitch. However, Lukaku' 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 Crisicoto is caught out, we must rely on Marchisio to 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 Draxler 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 Crisicito to stay back at all times, as with Gotze and Draxler playing forward roles, we don't want lack width at all:

NUMBER 1:


---------Martinez---Marchisio
-----------------------------------
Gotze-Lukaku-Lewandowski-Draxler

This will be when we are on the attack. As soon as they have the ball, Lukaku automatically drops back, whilst Draxler and Gotze bomb back down the flanks as quick as they can into a 4-4-1-1:


NUMBER 2:

Gotze-Martinez--Marchisio-Draxler
----------------Lukaku
-----------Lewandowski----------

This is very solid defensively, and our formation change will be very quick and smooth.



NUMBER 1 makes us more threatening in the central areas, to tear apart the CB's. It will also conjure up more space for the two DM to thrive on where they can find their man with ease, where they have more time to spot runs and passes, with Bonucci looking to cover them if they run out of position. However, if we get caught out NUMBER 2 will be implemented, where we efficiently swich formations to narrow down the midfield very very quickly, and isolate Aubameyang.

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 Inler, 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/Lukaku, or the feet of Drax, but also should look to set up Luiz, who will no doubt be lurking just outside the box, for a volley or long shot. On the other side, Draxler 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 Lukakui will see the 2 combining well, as Draxler is fantastic at finding his man, whilst Lukaku's passing is extremely good for a striker. If any chance falls to Draxler, 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 Birmingham half, just ahead of the FB, to shut out Ribery and Robben.

NOTE: Draxler 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, Lukaku is the dream striker to play alongside in a 4-4-2 as not only does he drop back, but he attacks every ball in the box and is great at holding it up. He will threaten every aerial ball that is played to him, and his power will be used to hammer De Vrij and Agger. Next to him, Lewandowski is a great finisher, and must use his his head to flick on any balls to the wingers, and must link up with Lukaku to score precious goals. Our 2 forwards must look to combine at every opportunity. Lewandowski must also look to to finish off every chance that falls his way, and he is brilliant in the air, so must outmuscle the defenders, when it comes to taking crosses of Carvajal and Gotze/Draxler. He will rely on his quick thinking, positioning, Technical ability and Finishing Prowess and look to crumble the Birmingham defence, with his brilliant knack of finding the back of the net

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 Marchisio 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 Lukaku 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 Draxler then the opposition can always expect the unexpected.

Subs:

If winning on 60: Papadopoulos > Lukaku, we go 5-4-1, with Papa dropping into CB, and Marchisio alongside Marty in midfield taking up his place at DM. 3 CB's and a World Class DM, try getting past that

---------Martinez----Matic
---Gotze--------------------Draxler
-----------Lewandowski

Very defensive change to halt Birmignahm, with Schmelzer and Carvajal providing great width when we need it. Really nulify Birmingham. Front 3 providing excellent options, the type of formation Lewandowski, Gotze and Draxler will thrive off

Whatever score on 60: El Shaarawy > Draxler, if winning he goes LW in formation above as a direct replacement, if losing/drawing, he offers much more goalscoring wise than Draxler

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

If drawing/losing on 75: Icardi > Marchisio: Three up front, offers great danger up there

posted on 29/6/13

Portsmouth vs Arsenal

-----------------------------Zieler
---------Papadopoulos--Bonucci--Nastasic
Carvajal---------------Javi Martinez---------Schmelzer
------Mario Gotze------Marchisio-----El Shaarawy
-------------------Robert Lewandowski

Subs: Shaw, Danilo, Matic, Griezmann, El Shaarawy, Draxler, Lukaku

Indirect Freekicks - Schmelzer. Great crosser of the ball, and reg taker at Dortmund, must whip the ball in for Lewandowski and a CB who will come up

Direct - Gotze. Go for the corner above and behind the wall, using accuracy over power.

Corners - Marchisio
Captain - Javi Martinez


Gameplan: Today we face the best team in the League, in this Semi final, and this is a really must win match for us to get into the Final. Arsenal are great, but we will not be over-awed or off the ball here, having a overall head to head record with them of only 5-4 in the two games we've played each other in. e play with a new formation today, the 5-1-3-1, but don't let that bother anyone.

In goal, Zieler will be big and commanding, and collect the ball in the 6 yard box. Anything outside goes for as punch. Likewise when they're a bunch of players, Zieler punches. His best attributes are his reflexes, positioning and Handling, so he must sense any shot coming at him from the corner of his eye and look to punch it around the post, and must avoid parrying at all costs. He will run out to the striker quickly in any one v one situation, but must move his legs quickly to avoid being nutmegged.

At RB, Carvajal starts more advanced than usual, and this is great news for him, as he is great attacking wise. He will look to get the ball at his feet, and skip past the right, looking to deliver those low balls that Vidic and Barzagli both hate, and Lewandowski loves. We will go for low crosses most of the time, seeing as Arsenal's CB's are great in the air, but not half as good with their feet. Carvajal must stay very solid defensively though, and track Silva, making sure he doesn't drift in. Silva is very much one footed on his left peg, so he will most likely drift inside, but we will have Carvajal who will intercept any run or burst of pace, as he is expecting Silva to do this. And cross Silva will do on his left foot is likely to be an inswinger, which Papadopoulos will deal with. If Silva crosses on his right, it will likely be an outswinger, where Nastasic will be placed well to head clear.

Down at LB, Schmelzer is great at attacking, as he loves to join in with the attack, with his left foot being a very deadly weapon. He is quite possibly the best crosser in this pitch, and will not only look to pick out Lewandowski, but spot the runs of Marchisio who loves to pop up on these positions, and also Gotze, drifting in from the outside. Once again, the crosses will mainly be low balls driven into the box, which Lewandowski will be well positioned to turn home. Defensively, Schmelzer probably faces Ronaldo. He shut him up in the two CL games, so he can do it again! He will recive help from Nastasic, who plays LCB, but if Schmelzer is beaten by Ronaldo/LW, Nastasic must come charging out of the box to deal with him. One thing Schmelzer does help him with Ronaldo, is his pace. Schmzeler is very fast for a LB, and although he'll probably be beaten by Ronaldo for pace, he must anticipate what Ronaldo does with the ball.

At LCB, Nastasic not only keeps his eye out for Ronaldo, but Rooney as well. Nastasic's job is to spot any danger coming off one of the midfielders, whether that be Ronaldo or Rooney (Whoever plays AM), as only one of them will be coming at Nastasic at a time. Nastasic must stay strong, and this is where his reading of the game will be tested. He must track down the AM, but he must also block any shots that are heading goalbound, and any crosses that are flying past him must be cleared from danger. He is good in the air, so must stand tall for any aerial balls, whilst he must be clean in the tackle, going only for the ball and not the leg, making sure he doesn't give away any penalties. This goes for everyone back there, no pens must be conceded. For Arsenal's direct freekicks, we will instruct Nastasic to cover the keepers far post, in case Zieler is beaten for power, whilst Marchisio takes up his place in the wall.

Next to Nastasic at CB is Bonucci, and his instruction will be to target RVP, staying on him the whole match. Bonucci is experienced playing the central role of a back 3, and this is where he feels most at home, so he must stay on RVP at all times, looking to shrug RVP off the ball using his better strength, and his awareness levels are top class, so must get to and ball before Van Persie can move. Bonucci will attempt to scare off RVP in the air, Bonucci will use his superior height advantage to nod clear. However, RVP relies on pure finishing, and likes to move off his man, but Bonucci will track him wherever he goes. This will not open up a whole in Central defence, as Papa will step into the role, and he is just a beast of a CB. Great tackler, great in the air, and always puts his neck on the line, which is why I rate him so highly, and he must cut out any crosses, dealing with Ronaldo's balls into the box, and Rooney's passes forward. Papa charges down the ball and sniffs out danger from a mile away, so must cut the ball out/block the crosses/clear off the line etc whatever it takes to not concede. All of our defenders are great passers of the ball, so must look to play the ball out rather than hoof, unless we are under pressure, where we go long away from danger.

At DM, Martinez faces his hardest game yet. Tasked with facing both Shrek and Yaya, Martinez must stay disciplined, and focused. 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 Arsenal's defence, as we look to play in Gotze and El Shaa, 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. He will prevent any runs from Rooney, looking to force him backwards, and must press all the way.

Marchisio must never neglect defensive duties, and his immense determination and presence must combine with his pressing ability to always win the ball back when we lose it. Marchisio 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 Shaarawy with sly passes and through balls, to try and find a way in behind Arsenal's defence. When he is struggling, Marchisio must track back and help out, and this will be needed if Yaya drives in from deep. Yaya relies on strength and speed, two of Martinez's best attributes, so he must take down Yaya, stopping him from getting near the box. Papadopoulos will also be on hand to come into DM, leaving Nastasic and Bonucci as a back 2, and he will be a thorn in Arsenal's side, as there will be 3 of them, tasked on stopping Yaya, Rooney and possibly Busquets too, and our three are more dominant force. However, Papa must stay at the back if the attack is coming down the wings, and he will will also be the one to deal with long balls to the striker. Marchisio is best known for his brilliant vision and passing skills, great movement, and fantastic drive, so he will play AM-but must guard the back line alongside Martinez against when needed. Marchisio will be in support of Robert Lewandowski to prevent isolation when we atack. He will look to pick the ball up from midfield, and either shoot from long range, or use his vision to play in through balls into the attackers. He will also look to use his good passing to find ways to release Gotze and El Shaarawy. Marchisio will face Busquets, who is widely regarded as the best DM in the world, when in reality he is just a Barcelona player. Anyhows, Marchisio must drift away from, bringing him out of position, and Gotze and El Shaarawy will take advantage of this, drifting in behind Busquets to from a front three with Lewandowski.

Gotze's job will be to run at Cole, take him on, and whip in low balls for Lewandowski and Marchisio, who are both positioned well to finish them off. His pace is his best asset, and is clearly faster than Cole so will look to take him on and beat him every time he gets the ball. 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 target Busquets, 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 feet of Lewandowski or Marchisio, but also should look to set up Luiz, who will no doubt be lurking just outside the box, for a volley or long shot.

On the other side, El Shaarawy is a brilliant finisher, and he loves to take on his man, whilst he’s always reliable when it comes to making runs off the last man. His rapid pace must see him chase the ball every time it breaks loose, whilst his lethal runs will always be a danger to Arsenal. He is also a genius at winning penalties, and must look to trick his way into the box using a wide range of skills to frighten the defence. His brilliant link up play with Lewandowski will see the 2 combining well, as El Shaaarwy is fantastic at finding his man, whilst Lew'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. El Shaarawy will be on the same flank as the very overated and attacking Dani Alves, and we have seen how poor Alves is defensively. El Shaarawy must take full advantage of the space left by Alves, and must cut in from the right where he plot the passes in the box.

Up front, Lewandowski is the dream striker to play in this fomration, as not only does he drop back, but he attacks every ball in the box and is great at holding it up. He will threaten every aerial ball that is played to him, and his power will be used to hammer a crooked Vidic and ageing Barzagli. Lewandowski is a great finisher, and must use his his head to flick on any balls to the wingers, and must link up with Marchisio to score precious goals. Our 3 forwards must look to combine at every opportunity. Lewandowski must also look to to finish off every chance that falls his way, and he is brilliant in the air, so must outmuscle the defenders when it comes to high balls, and low ones when it comes to taking crosses of Carvajal and Gotze/El Shaarawy. He will rely on his quick thinking, positioning, Technical ability and Finishing Prowess and look to crumble the Arsenal defence, with his brilliant knack of finding the back of the net

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 Marchisio 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 Lewandowski 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 drawing/losing 60 (Or 75): Lukaku > Nastasic, we go a back 4, Martinez sweeper role. 2 up front, in a 4-1-2-1-2. This will add real power to our attack, and we all saw how Lukaku tore apart Vidic in the last day of the season.

If drawing/Losing 60: Danilo > Carv, more attacking RB, real pace to take down the Right flank, and he loves to drift in a deal with the LB.

Any score 60: Draxler > El Shaarawy, Draxler is too good to not come on and make a difference

If we're winning at any point in the game: Matic > Marchisio, Matic goes DM with Martinez, we shut up shop, 3 CB's, 2 DM's....Mate!





posted on 29/6/13

As ex Chelsea man Roberto di Matteo so eloquently put it: "In the FA Cup, you always have to expect the unexpectable".

Gone for tactics that we feel are perfect for this one off cup match. 3 in defence allowing us to build possession and attacks from the back, overloading the middle of the park so that we come out on top of the midfield battle. With Reus and Hamsik given creative freedom when attacking behind Tevez to get the best out of them going forward. Tevez loves playing against Chelsea so we’re confident today.


--------------- Buffon
----- Skrtel – Pepe – Evans --------
Rafael - Gerrard – Pirlo – Adriano
----- Hamsik ---------- Reus -------
--------------- Tevez

Subs. Cesar, Abate, Sandro, Ox, Lavezzi, Eto’o, Dzeko

3-4-2-1 in attack, 4-5-1 in defence. Fluid pressing game.

The three centre backs will allow us to build from the back, controlling possession and giving us a solid base to build on giving our attacking players more freedom. Allows us to play without a defensive minded midfield and allow our wing backs to go all out attack. Wing backs provide width going forward.

We don’t like to talk about the opposition but going on the attacking players they have I imagine Chelsea’s tactics will look a little like:
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_IPuB3Qb_Kdg/RhYyurto6vI/AAAAAAAAAMA/aI5UJuQsn0E/s1600-h/football_tactics_4%5B1%5D.gif

By defending with a 5 man backline even if Neymar/Hulk beat our wing backs they’ll have another cb to beat and then there will be two more cbs and our wing back picking up Aguero.

Buffon is used to playing with 3 cbs in front of him and will keep the defenders right, leading from the back.

It’s a big cup game so we want to press hard in the first two thirds of the pitch. When the opposition are attacking we want two lines 5-4. Tevez remains up top, where he will score his goals, as he always scores against Chelsea. With five in defence we can move in a unit and squeeze the play and still cover, making it impossible for Chelsea to find space.

Skrtel will be the one that man marks their forward (Aguero). Even if he is drawn out of position we have two other cbs there. The wing backs and Pepe have great pace to allow us to stamp their wide players out the game. Wing backs not to dive in.

If the Chelsea full backs go forward Hamsik/Reus will track the runs and fill in to right and left midfield runs and help the wing backs. If only one Chelsea fb goes forward one of Hamsik/Reus can help Gerrard & Pirlo in the middle in front of the defence.


Attack.

The wing backs provide the width. Ultra attacking down the wings, they both have the ability to beat a man and get a cross in, while Adriano is also a great goal threat. In the middle of the park Pirlo and Gerrard offer great positional awareness, composure and leadership, Hamsik and Reus offer the energy and drive. Perfect mix. Tevez up top is the destroyer of Chelsea and will get goals as he always does against them.

Hamsik and Reus generally have the freedom of the park going forward, though we would always like one to play through the middle in front of Gerrard/Pirlo bringing energy to the middle. Hamsik will come from the right and Reus left though, as these will be the positions they will be moving out from when defending, in attack all that’s important is that they support Tevez, getting him the chances to score as he always does against Chelsea, and link the midfield and attack. This freedom should make it impossible for their midfielders to pick them up, and will allow them to find space in between the Chelsea midfield and defence. Exactly where we want them on the ball.

In the centre Pirlo will be the heartbeat of our side when moving out from defence. He will look for the ball from the defence and look to control the game from the centre of the park. Pirlo will be our midfielder in the deeper areas while Gerrard looks to get forward and really support the attacks in the final third.

His long balls will be a feature of our game picking out Hamsik/Reus/Tevez in space/over the top of the defence. And also out wide to Adriano and Rafael who will be bombing forward.

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 players behind him to link up with. And did I mention, Tevez loves playing Chelsea.

Set pieces. Pirlo. Simple.

Subs. We’ve got real quality on the bench to allow us to mix things up:
If winning after 65 mins bring on Lavezzi for Hamsik. Like for like. Keep things fresh.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Sandro for Gerrard. Bring power to the midfield. Fresh legs important.
If Tevez has scored and we are winning after 75 mins bring on Eto’o for Tevez. Gives us a player who will run the channels and offer a great out ball. Tevez will be tired at this point having scored so many goals, or if he hasn't scored he soon will.
If losing/drawing after 65 mins bring on Eto’o for Hamsik. 3-4-1-2. Pace and running up top.
If losing/drawing after 80 mins bring on Dzeko for Gerrard. Give us someone we can get crosses in the air for and go more direct. Attacking 4-3-3. Pepe to dm where he has played for Portugal.
If losing/drawing after 80 mins bring on Ox for Gerrard. Drive and fresh legs through the middle of the park.

posted on 30/6/13

* 3-4-2-1 in attack, 5-4-1 in defence. Fluid pressing game.

posted on 4/7/13

-----------------------Begovic
Juanfran---Hummels-------Agger-----Johnson
-------------------------Inler
-------------Schweiny------Modric
Robben------------------------------------Ribery
----------------------Gomez
Subs
Begovic, Blind, De Vrij, Payet, Dembele, Lennon, 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 - Lennon for Robben - Fresh legs and extra defensive workrate.

76 mins - Dembele and Blind 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 Lennon 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.

posted on 4/7/13

Portsmouth vs Birmingham


--------------------------Zieler--------
---Carvajal---Bonucci--Nastasic---Schmelzer
----------Javi Martinez---Marchisio--
Mario Gotze-----------------------------Draxler
------------Lewandowski---Lukaku

Subs: Koval, Danilo, Luke Shaw, El Shaarawy, Papadopoulos, Griezmann, Icardi

Game Plan: We will look to attack our opponents using a slick, pass and move game. We believe we have the abilities in defence to pass the ball out and start counter attacks, as Nastasic is dynamic and will carry the ball forward, and alongside him, Bonucci is an excellent passer of the ball, and mustn't be afraid of stepping into midfield at times to use his fantastic ball playing skills. Our two CB's must look to play the ball out if defence, as they both suit each other very well. Daniel Carvajal and 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. Marchisio is best known for his brilliant vision and passing skills, great movment in midfield, and fantastic drive, so he will play in the deep lying playmaker role-but must guard the back line alongside Martinez against what we think will be Birmingham's solid midfield 3-, before turning into a kind of B2B when needed. We wont be playing an AM, but Lukaku will be playing CF and 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 Julian Draxler. Gotze's job will be to run at Taylor/Blind, take him on, and whip in low balls for Lewandowski and Lukaku, who are both guaranteed to finish them off. His pace is his best asset, and is clearly faser than Schmelzer so will look to take bim on and beat him every time he ges the ball. Blind/Taylor is Birminmgham's biggest weakness as Clichy is out, and this is a great spot to target. Gotze will have lots of space available to him. Julian Draxler will be on the other end, and use his dazzling dribbling ability, and superb acceleration to turn away from fullbacks, and clip in high balls for Lewandowski and Lukaku 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 Draxler. Alongside him, Lukaku is the one to drop into midfield and harry Inler/DM, putting pressure on him. He has immense strength (99 Strength on FIFA when In form FFS!) and is very fast, so wuill trouble the defence all day. Both CBs come up for corners to put pressure on their CBs

Target areas:-

RB: we will look to take advantage of Birmingham's Johnson, who is a good RB, and whilst his defensive side has improved a lot-and I am against the topic that he can't defend-he is an attacking RB, and tends to leave back gaps at times when he goes forward. Draxler works this out brilliantly, and will flourish in the freedom. It w ill be a real dream chance for Draxler to shine, with him looking to bathe in the space given to him, he will cause problems down the left, which shows we will have the advantage down both flanks

LB: Clichy is injured, and Birmingham's second/third choice LB's are no where near his level. We will specifically target the LB area, and we have deployed our best player in a position to tear it apart

DM: Although Inler is still decent, he is much more of a Box to box for Napoli than a DM so we will look to over power him and make sure Gotze and Draxler drift in to give him problems, whilst Lukaku will drop back to over power Inler. This is where the game will be won

LCB: Agger has been very poor from set pieces this season for Liverpool, so when it comes to corners, we will look to target him specifically and make runs in behind him, whilst the 2 big men from the back will come forward ready to get their heads on anything. Lukaku + Lewandowski should be hard enough to handle as it is..

RW: Robben is extremely inconsistent, but on his day is a wonder, however, we have seen that whenever he tries to come inside, he nearly always tries to go for ambitious shots, so we will specify Schmezlerto mark him down the wings and prevent any crosses, but when he comes inside, Schmelzer must keep his ground, not allowing Robben to pass him.

ST: If Gomez plays, he's had a poor season in terms of playing time, and if he plays, we will look to shut him out, and push his confidence further lower


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

Defence: We will start off in a 4-4-2 formation, relying on Carvajal and Schmelzer to do what they do best, and really attack the flanks, with Gotze and Draxler 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 Lukaku will be lurking. On the other side, Schmelzer is well balanced, but is a terrific dribbler, so he must look to take on his man, and venture into the Brimingham half as much as possible, and look to play short 1-2's with the likes of Marchisio 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 Birmingham will struggle to break down, as it limits their pacy wingers (Robben and Ribery) to run in behind the defence. Javi Martinez will be expected to drop back a notch, ala De Rossi, when they attack, where he can keep his eyes on Schwein and Modric 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 Birmighams defence, as we look to play in Gotze and Draxler, whilst Gotze and Draxler 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 Marchisio, who will start deep to contain Birmingham's strong midfield, but later go on to turn box to box when on attack. However, Marchisio must never neglect defensive duties, and his immense determination and presence must combine with his pressing ability to always win the ball back when we lose it. Marchisio 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 Draxler with sly passes and through balls, to try and find a way in behind Brums defence. Ahead of him, Lukaku will be playing CF, but must also help out defensively dropping back into midfield when we are under pressure, we must revert to a 4-2-3-1


-----Marchisio--Martinez
Gotze-------Lukaku-----Draxler


As this will bring more stability to the midfield, and can contain Brums attacks down the centre of the pitch. However, Lukaku' 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 Crisicoto is caught out, we must rely on Marchisio to 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 Draxler 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 Crisicito to stay back at all times, as with Gotze and Draxler playing forward roles, we don't want lack width at all:

NUMBER 1:


---------Martinez---Marchisio
-----------------------------------
Gotze-Lukaku-Lewandowski-Draxler

This will be when we are on the attack. As soon as they have the ball, Lukaku automatically drops back, whilst Draxler and Gotze bomb back down the flanks as quick as they can into a 4-4-1-1:


NUMBER 2:

Gotze-Martinez--Marchisio-Draxler
----------------Lukaku
-----------Lewandowski----------

This is very solid defensively, and our formation change will be very quick and smooth.



NUMBER 1 makes us more threatening in the central areas, to tear apart the CB's. It will also conjure up more space for the two DM to thrive on where they can find their man with ease, where they have more time to spot runs and passes, with Bonucci looking to cover them if they run out of position. However, if we get caught out NUMBER 2 will be implemented, where we efficiently swich formations to narrow down the midfield very very quickly, and isolate Aubameyang.

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 Inler, 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/Lukaku, or the feet of Drax, but also should look to set up Luiz, who will no doubt be lurking just outside the box, for a volley or long shot. On the other side, Draxler 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 Lukakui will see the 2 combining well, as Draxler is fantastic at finding his man, whilst Lukaku's passing is extremely good for a striker. If any chance falls to Draxler, 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 Birmingham half, just ahead of the FB, to shut out Ribery and Robben.

NOTE: Draxler 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, Lukaku is the dream striker to play alongside in a 4-4-2 as not only does he drop back, but he attacks every ball in the box and is great at holding it up. He will threaten every aerial ball that is played to him, and his power will be used to hammer De Vrij and Agger. Next to him, Lewandowski is a great finisher, and must use his his head to flick on any balls to the wingers, and must link up with Lukaku to score precious goals. Our 2 forwards must look to combine at every opportunity. Lewandowski must also look to to finish off every chance that falls his way, and he is brilliant in the air, so must outmuscle the defenders, when it comes to taking crosses of Carvajal and Gotze/Draxler. He will rely on his quick thinking, positioning, Technical ability and Finishing Prowess and look to crumble the Birmingham defence, with his brilliant knack of finding the back of the net

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 Marchisio 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 Lukaku 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 Draxler then the opposition can always expect the unexpected.

Subs:

If winning on 60: Papadopoulos > Lukaku, we go 5-4-1, with Papa dropping into CB, and Marchisio alongside Marty in midfield taking up his place at DM. 3 CB's and a World Class DM, try getting past that

---------Martinez----Matic
---Gotze--------------------Draxler
-----------Lewandowski

Very defensive change to halt Birmignahm, with Schmelzer and Carvajal providing great width when we need it. Really nulify Birmingham. Front 3 providing excellent options, the type of formation Lewandowski, Gotze and Draxler will thrive off

Whatever score on 60: El Shaarawy > Draxler, if winning he goes LW in formation above as a direct replacement, if losing/drawing, he offers much more goalscoring wise than Draxler

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

If drawing/losing on 75: Icardi > Marchisio: Three up front, offers great danger up there

posted on 4/7/13

-------------- Cesar
Rafael -– Pepe – Evans – Filipe
--------- Sandro – Pirlo
Hamsik ----- Reus ----- Lavezzi
-------------- Tevez

Subs. Buffon, Adriano, Gerrard, Banega, Young, Eto’o, Dzeko
Balanced 4-2-3-1. We’ve gone for a side that we feel can really attack ze Germans and remain strong at the back. As in all our big games, we’ll play with fluidity and high pressing. Pirlo will be the main man, and with the attacking trio in front of him will be the main man, just as he was when he tore apart the German side at the Euros. Seeing as the Brazilians are in good form we’re happy to have 5 Brazilian born players in the side.
Clean sheet is vital. And so the full backs will be more reserved than normal. Germany favorite drink is Penal tea. And so we want to make sure we can finish this match in 180 mins.

Defence:
Cesar continues in goals in the EL, in good form so we stick with him.
One full back gets 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. Evans looks to read the play, Pepe to challenge and has the pace to get back and help Evans/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 German 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 balanced line not deep, not as high as half way. At home but we want to stretch the game and keep possession, create space in the opposition for our attacking trio. In Pepe, 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 German 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. 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, Pirlo is the perfect players to play behind them. Today Pirlo gets the nod as he loves playing the Germans.
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 Pepe up there causing bother with plenty of players in our side who will be quick to react. Pirlo’s delivery will be pinpoint as always.

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 losing/drawing after 65 mins bring on Dzeko for Lavezzi. Reus goes left, Tevez deep.
If losing/drawing after 70 mins bring on Gerrard for Pirlo.
If losing/drawing after 80 mins bring on Eto’o for Tevez.
If winning after 60 mins bring on Gerrard for Lavezzi.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Adriano for Hamsik. Plays left, Reus goes right.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Eto’o for Tevez. Got a few goals in EL, build on it. Pace and running to keep us fresh.

comment by Kanga (U3095)

posted on 5/7/13

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

Trapp will command his back line.
Jagielka will mark Norwichs 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 Romeu sits. Romeu will act as the play maker with good distribution of the ball making the team tick.
Ben Arfa and Turan will as always attack the full backs with great pace and dribbling, whipping balls into the box or cutting inside and taking a shot so they don’t become predictable. The two can also act as inside forwards if necessary
Michu is lethal in the air and had good control of the ball. He will play behind Sturridge, playing him through or taking a shot from his lay offs.
Sturridge will attack the Norwich defence with pace and dribbling and be alert for any rebounds or balls across goal.









Subs if losing after 70 mins

------------------------Trapp---------------------
Iraola----Jagielka --------Lescott----------Monreal
------------M’Vila --------------Fer --
Sturridge----------------Michu-----------------------Turan
--------------- ----------------Ba ------- ------------------

Fer more box to box for an attacking impetus.
Ba in there for an extra goalscoring threat.
If Turan looks jaded, bring Assaidi on
If winning after 70 mins
De Guzman on for Michu (extra guy in midfield)
Aspas on for Sturridge (more chasing the channels)

posted on 5/7/13

Must win game before a tough run of matches. For this reason and after the European game, we’ve gone for a whole new team. Fresh faces and a big chance for a lot of players.

-------------- Buffon
Abate – Caulker – Skrtel – Adriano
---------- Lucas –- Barry
Ox ---------- Banega ------- Young
---------------- Eto’o

Cesar, Pepe, D.Reyes, Campana, Reus, Belfodil, Dzeko

Balanced 4-2-3-1. Playing with lots of width. Direct and attacking with pace.

Start with a high tempo, get in Spur’s faces. Take control of the game and get Lucas, Barry and Banega dominating in the middle. The two defensive midfielders allow Adriano and Abate to really attacking down the wings stretching the play, our attacking trio’s movement and pace going forward should create plenty of opportunities for us. Barry and Lucas will look to spread the play and keep the ball moving.

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

Get 9 men back in our half and behind the ball if possible, leaving no space for Spurs to work. Navas will be their main threat and so Adriano will have to be more wary than Abate, with Lucas and Barry playing relatively deep though he should have adequate cover. We don’t like too worry about opposition players though, best form of defence is attack anyway.

We want Skrtel to man mark their forward, get close and bully him but don’t dive in. Caulker the one covering.

Lucas and Barry will work it out between themselves over which goes forward when. Leaving the two cbs and one of Barry/Lucas playing very deep almost alongside them, the other will be in the centre behind Banega offering an option backwards to switch the play.

Banega playing in a more attacking role as he has been for Valencia, with Adriano/Abate/Ox/Young and Eto’o all full of movement and pace he should be spoilt for choices when looking to play a through ball.

Eto’o up top will be key. Running the channels creating space for out attacking trio to get through on goal.

If not working simply make the changes.
Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Belfodil for Eto’o. Also bring on Campana for Barry.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Diego Reyes for Lucas. Marquez like in dm.
If losing/drawing after 45 mins bring on Reus for Barry. Banega drops deep, Reus in am.
If losing/drawing after 60 mins bring on Dzeko for Ox. Et’o moves right.
If losing/drawing after 75 mins bring on Pepe for Lucas. Power in the dm role and threat at set pieces.

posted on 6/7/13

---------------Courtois
Piszczek---Cahill-----Dante---Marcelo
---------------Marrone
---------Matuidi----De Bruyne
Lamela------------------------Ramires
-----------------Cavani

Subs: Diego Alves, Kalas, Torosidis, Beñat, Villa, Martinez, Hernandez

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

Game Plan:
This is a game where we have to take all 3 points now, it doesn't matter how we play the important thing is getting the job done so today we line up with a team of extremely hard workers and look to draw Portsmouth out before really pressing them hard and stopping them from being able to pass their way through us, looking to make the game very scrappy and then it hit them on the break when we win it back, looking to attack with speed and efficiency and be clinical in front of goal. We won't worry about not having the ball as we are excellent out of possession and drawing Portsmouth out means we can open up spaces which the likes of Lamela and Ramires will thrive in as well as Cavani being one of the best counter attacking CFs around. To open this space up we split into two game plans:

Off the ball:
Unlike many sides we don't need to dominate the ball, we have the same abilities as the Mourinho Chelsea sides of old to work very hard in the game, everybody giving their all for each other, working to stop the opposition creating chances, getting men behind the ball and then making sure we're in their faces so there is no space, working in threes to crowd the man on the ball straight away closing off all options and winning the ball back, we do this whenever we lose the ball. We keep the wide men that they have forced right and out and the FBs will keep them there, whilst we tightly mark the men in midfield.

On the ball:
When we win the ball back we then utilise our pace and flair out wide and attack the spaces they leave. We have 3 players in midfield to pick the passes as well as provide a driving force and we can use the front 3 to clinical effect as long as we get the ball to them. Cavani thrives on counter attacking, it doesn't matter how many there are around him he can battle and hold them all off, we get the wide men in support of him and we counter with pace and fluidity to take the remaining defence apart. At times we get hold of the so to not invite too much pressure, we have the players who can work it around in tight spaces, just getting a grip of the game which allows ourselves to have a breather. Play with speed and precision using the wingers as our outlet as we believe they will get a lot of joy in this game. When we attack get men forward, although leaving 4-5 back at all times to stop ourselves being vulnerable to counters. We flood the box when the crosses come in and we look to get to any rebounds first to get the ball in the back of the net. If we lose the ball up field we must immediately look to win it back, pressing in threes again but this time in the opposition 3rd and looking to stop them breaking.

Individual roles:

Courtois will command the area at all times, when the crosses come in he uses his extra height to come and claim them and relieve the pressure on our back 4. He's always alert to danger, being an excellent shot stopper as well as very quick off his line to deal with someone breaking into the box. When he gets the ball from crosses and there's a chance to counter them he must be alert to that, using his excellent distribution to get us going forward, taking plenty of Portsmouth players out of the game on doing so.

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 Gotze 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.

They will go forward one at a time when we attack down their side, particularly on counter attacks, they can make the overlapping runs and put lots of crosses in. Both are also excellent at underlapping, making the runs on the inside of the wingers and will do so, going towards the box and taking defenders with them to open up space elsewhere. Marcelo is excellent at playing long diagonal balls forward and we will look to hit Portsmouth that way when possible, aiming towards Cavani who can bring the ball down and set up players running off him.

At CB we have two very solid and dependable players. Dante man marks the main striker, he should get tight when the striker is in dangerous positions, not allowing him to turn and run towards goal or run off him, always stay on 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. He reads the game so well and should get in front of the striker to intercept balls into him, not allowing him into the game. When the striker drops off let him go and instead pick up the midfielder furthest forward, doing the same job on them. Cahill acts as the sweeper, he like the FBs should be very aware of the link up play between the Pompey forward line that stems from Lewandowski, he reads the flicks and little touches and clears the danger before it can get beyond us. He is also able to cover Dante, if the CB is beaten Cahill comes across and he's excellent at those last ditch tackling. His main job is to stop any midfield runners or a second striker getting space, he picks them up, stays goal side and marks them out forcing them to drop back to get involved. Stay alert to danger and clear any loose ball, especially being aware that Courtois pulls off unexpected saves and the rebounds need clearing.

Its essential that we get on top of the midfield and make it a real battle and scrappy game. These three stay in position and stop the midfield getting enough time and space to work chances, getting in their faces throughout and disrupting the rhythm, pressing in numbers and then allowing us to spring forward. Marrone 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. Matuidi and KDB will always stay in this system, they won't get dragged out, pressurising the player closest to them when he's on the ball, not letting Portsmouths movement drag them out of position. 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 incredible range of passing, able to pick a pass from anywhere 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. Marrone won't get forward, he will sit in the midfield and stop any counters. Matuidi has a license to play as a box to box, 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. De Bruyne provides the creativity, he uses his clever passing range to release players on the counter, unlocking the Portsmouth back line. He can move about on the attack to find space, and make his clever runs between FB and CB to get in on goal, or move wide to link to play before darting infield. He also looks to arrive late in the box for crosses.

The wingers will provide the spark to our attacks. Lamela on the right provides the trickery, he will look to take on his FB, beating him every time and getting plenty of crosses into the box, or cut inside and link up with Cavani and the midfield, playing quick intricate passes to open up space for a shot or a through ball. He's deadly when attacking crosses at the back post and we'll look to him for that attacking threat as FBs barely pick up men at the back post. Ramires on the left provides the raw pace, we want him making his runs wide to stretch the opposition, he's excellent when he has space to run into so will be clinical on the break, finding the space, putting crosses in or playing it infield and then making runs in behind, particularly coming central to feed off Cavani.

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.

Cavani will be the focal point of our attacks. He relishes the chance to hit teams on the counter its when we see the best of him. No matter how many he's up against he can hold up the ball and links up with his support, getting the ball into our wingers and then making his runs to support them. He can hold of the defenders and go for goal himself, battling away and moving us up the field. If he's got nowhere to go as he's surrounded he draws the fouls and wins the free kicks for us, this will disrupt the oppositions attacking rhythm, give us time to get back into shape and allow us to get the ball into the opposition box to attack. . When attacking in numbers he looks to get on the CBs and back into them, force them backwards and create space for us to attack in, with the wingers and KDB using him to link up with and make runs in behind the defence. All the time giving us the option to really spread out those defenders and create spaces for our attacks.

Subs:

If Winning: Beñat for De Bruyne 75', fresh legs to continue that same role in midfield. Torosidis for Lamela 80', more defensive legs but loves to spring forward. Kalas for Cavani 85', 5-5-0. 11 men behind the ball don't let them score.

If Drawing: Villa for Ramires 70', fresh legs to get at them down that left flank, supports Cavani. Hernandez on for Cavani 75', fresh pace upfront and someone always likely to poach a goal off the bench. Beñat for Marrone 80', Matuidi back to DM, Beñat and KDB gives us two players to thread a ball through for a late winner.

If Losing: Beñat for Marrone 65', Matuidi DM. Look to keep the ball better in midfield and create chances. Villa for Ramires 70', greater attacking threat. Hernandez for Matuidi 75', 4-4-2 with attacking wingers, FBs supporting, midfield two creating those chances.

If Red Card:

Courtois: Alves for Marrone - 4-4-1
Piszczek: Kalas for Marrone - 4-4-1
CB: Kalas for Marrone
LB: Kalas for Marrone, Dante LB
Marrone/Matuidi - stay the same.
KDB: Beñat for Marrone - 4-4-1
Lamela/Ramires: Villa for Marrone 4-4-1
Cavani: Martinez for Marrone - 4-4-1

posted on 6/7/13

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

posted on 6/7/13

-----------------------Begovic
Juanfran---Hummels-------Agger-----Johnson
-------------------------Inler
-------------Schweiny------Modric
Robben------------------------------------Ribery
----------------------Gomez
Subs
Begovic, Blind, De Vrij, Payet, Dembele, Lennon, 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 - Lennon for Robben - Fresh legs and extra defensive workrate.

76 mins - Dembele and Blind 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 Lennon 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.

posted on 6/7/13

-----------------------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.

posted on 9/7/13

Sunderland v spurs

------------------Schmeicel------------------
Uchida-Amorebietta-M.Musacchio-Sakho
-------------Canos-------Aimar-------------
Narsingh---------Kiyotake---------Affellay
-------------------Huntelaar-----------------

Smithies, Sorg, Rode, Defour, Kalou, Lanzini, Ibarbo

Schmeicel makes himself as big as possible behind the back 4. Comes out for high balls and clears everything, quick off his line and releases ball early.

Musacchio picks up the striker and keeps him quiet, whilst Amorebietta sits spare watching all other players coming through and sits just of his CB partner, Fullbacks attack when they can and support wingers, otherwise stand firm and defend the lines.

Canos sits as the DM keeping the AM quiet allowing Aimar to dictate play, doesnt maybe have the legs so sits deeper allowing younger players to do the attacking so he can sit and spray it about.
Attacking trio are exciting, will take on players at will and support KJH as best they can, Kiyotake will sit just off his shoulder when we attack, one winger takes it to the line to cross in as the other drifts into the box to make an extra man. All 3 sit back and defend the lines when they attack.
Huntelaar will look for goals, gets into great areas for others to pick him out, a goal machine and will always play on the last man, if he cant go for goal himself look to set up those around him.

Captain:- Aimar
Penalities:- Kiyotake
FreeKicks:- Aimar
Corners:- Wingers:-

Subs:-

Defour, Lanzini for Aimar, Affellay on 70 Mins
Ibarbo for Huntelaar - 75 Mins

posted on 11/7/13

chelsea

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

Baumann, Dragovic, Bender, Kroos, Hueng, Mkhitaryan, Benteke

A tough game but my boys know whats at stake...3 pts is a must as we cant throw it away this late in the season..quick free flowing football, break them down and harrass them all 90 mins

Hart is a top back up and confident keeper, the England No.1 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. Pressurising them into shooting high or wide. 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. Match them for pace and shrug them out, must stay strong! 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. They have some super attacking midfielders so 100% concentration!
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:-
65 Mins:- Benteke for Hulk - Aguero RW
70 Mins:- Kroos for Vidal - more attack minded
75 Mins:- Mkhitaryan for Cesc fresh legs to support Benteke

85 Mins:- 4-3-3 with Aguero and Neymar getting closer to Benteke

Winning:-
75 Mins:- Kroos for Hulk - can play RM and will help defensively
80 Mins:- Benteke for Aguero - hold it up near the end but still a threat
85 Mins:- Bender for Fabregas, sit on the right of Khedira to help shut them out for the final few mins

Drawing
70 Mins:- Benteke for Hulk - Aguero RW
75 Mins:- Kroos for Vidal
80 Mins:- Mkhitaryan for Fabregas

Reds
Neuer - Baumann for Hulk - Aguerro RW
FB - Bender for Hulk - Aguero RW (Lahm to LB if Baines)
CB - Dragovic for Hulk - Aguero RW
CM - Bender for Hulk - Aguero RW
AM - Aguero drop back

All this time Aguero - Cesc - Neymar will be our attacking threat, unless Benteke needs to come on for Cesc if we fall behind or out of the game

posted on 13/7/13

Portsmouth vs Chelsea

-----------------------Maksym Koval
---Carvajal-------Bonucci-----Nastasic-----Schmelzer
-----------------David Luiz----Javi Martinez
----Mario Gotze-------------------------------El Shaarawy
---------------------Lukaku-----Lewandowski

Subs: Icardi, Griezmann, Matic, Draxler, Rodwell, Papadopoulos, Danilo

Today against Chelsea is a must win game, for us to keep our European dream alive. This is why I have gone quite attacking, with a very deadly front 4, all who know how to get goals. However, whilst the attack is deadly, my defence is also very strong, with Luiz and Javi Martinez guiding a solid back four, who will probably be tasked with dealing with Aguero, Neymar, Hulk/Son and Fabregas. The midfield duo is solid enough, two great players who are expert defensively, and they must contain what I assume will be Fabregas and Vidal. When Fabregas drifts out to the wings, Luiz tracks him all the way, with Martinez keeping a close eye on Vidal, when he makes runs from deep. Martinez must also block off any attempted running made by Neymar, who loves cutting inside, with Martinez staying back, anticipating Neymar's move. To further nulify Neymar, we place Carvajal at RB, who will chase down Neymar whenever he's on the ball, and look to beat him to every ball, whilst also following Neymar all the way, looking to block his shots. This however, may open up a space for the attacking Baines, which is why I instruct Gotze to track back whenever we are on the back foot. On the other side, Schmelzer will be dealing with Son/Hulk, both whome are very fast, so again, Schmelzer's attacking play will be limited. The good thing is Schmelzer is extremely rapid himself, so will be able to match the RW for pace. Any attempt to cut inside will be cut short by Schmelzer, who muts keep his eye on the ball the whole match. At CB, Bonucci targets Aguero, whilst Nastasic looks out for the extra runs in midfield, whilst also acts to cover Bonucci up, as Aguero is fast and there is the risk that he will beat Bonucci for speed. For this reason, Nastasic will be the one to clean up from the back, looking to get his body in the way of long shots, and keeping a close eye on Fabregas when he is in and around the box. 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 Vidal with Luiz sticking tight to Fabregas, 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 Neymar. Neymar likes to cut in on his favourite right, but this is to Carvajal's advantage, as we have made sure that when Neymar cuts in, Carvajal commits himself fully for the ball, or backing Neymar 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. At LB, we have Schmelzer, and he will deal with Chelsea's RW. Schmezler knows quick wingers inside out due and this will be an added bonus, as Schmezler will know exactly what Hulk/Son will do, just before he does it. He has experience dealing with Hulk, 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 Luiz. Luiz 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 Cheslea's midfield 3-, before turning into a kind of B2B when needed. We will target Chelse'a DM-Khedira. He has not had the best of seasons, so we will look to take him in a series of swift break aways, ranging from quick counter attacks, to a passing sequence, or through a direct approach to out very quick forwards. Lukaku must drop back too, to cause Khedira even more problems, with his powerful frame, and physical presence able to scrae off the best of players. When not in possesion, Lukaku will sit just in front of the DM (Khedira), and will look to get the ball up to Lewandowski. Lukaku 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 Shaarawy. Lukaku is very good at holding the ball up too, and his dribbling is often overlooked, so he must use it to his advantage to skip get away from opposition players. Gotze's job will be to run at the LB (Baines) and really beat him, as this is Villa's weakest defensive spot in the team. Defensively, Baines is really fragile, and does tend to leave behind many gaps, so Gotze will take full adfvantage of the freedom, and look to strecth the backline, bringing the LCB out of position, before switching the ball to the other side. Gotze will take him on, and whip in low balls for Lewandowski, Lukaku and El Shaarawy, who are all guaranteed to finish them off. His pace is his best asset, and is faster than Baines, so will look to take him on and beat him every time he gets the ball. 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 Luaku 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, Lukaku is the one to drop into midfield and harry Khedira, 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

Target areas:

GK: Hart is quality, but off the back of a really poor season, we will look to pressurise him and get him to crack

LB: Attacking LB on Gotze's flank...He smells danger here

CB: Subotic, I think is really overated, struggle against dominant strikers...Well say hello to Lukaku, who'll bully him all day, when he's not to busy wetting Khedira's pants.


Freekicks direct - Gotze, go for the corner above the goal, or drill them in under the wall.

Indirect - Schmelzer, excellent crosser of the ball, target Lukaku/Lewandowski

Penalties - Lewandowski
Corners - Gotze
Captain - Lewandowski



Defence: We will start off in a 4-4-2 formation, relying on Carvajal and Schmelzer to do what they do best, and really attack the flanks, with Gotze and El Shaarawy 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 Lukaku will be lurking. On the other side, Schmelzer is well balanced, but is a terrific dribbler, so he must look to take on his man, and venture into the Chelsea half as much as possible, and look to play short 1-2's with the likes of Luiz and Martinez. Both of these Fullbacks must come back at all times, to prevent Chelsea 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 Chelsea will struggle to break down, as it limits their pacy wingers (Neymar and Hulk) to run in behind the defence. Javi Martinez will be expected to drop back a notch, ala De Rossi, when they attack, where he can keep his eyes on Vidal and Fabregas 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 Cheksea's defence, as we look to play in Gotze and El Shaarawy, 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 Luiz, who will start deep to contain Chelsea's strong midfield, but later go on to turn box to box when on attack. However, Luiz must never neglect defensive duties, and his immense determination and presence must combine with his pressing ability to always win the ball back when we lose it. Luiz 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 Shaarawy with sly passes and through balls, to try and find a way in behind Chelseas defence. Ahead of him, Lukaku will be playing CF, but must also help out defensively dropping back into midfield when we are under pressure, we must revert to a 4-2-3-1


-----Marchisio--Martinez
Gotze-------Lukaku-----El Shaarawy


As this will bring more stability to the midfield, and can contain Chelsea's attacks down the centre of the pitch. However, Lukaku' 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 Schmelzer is caught out, we must rely on Luiz to 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 Shaarawy 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 Crisicito to stay back at all times, as with Gotze and El Shaarawy playing forward roles, we don't want lack width at all:

NUMBER 1:


---------Martinez---David Luiz
-----------------------------------
Gotze-Lukaku-Lewandowski-El Shaarawy

This will be when we are on the attack. As soon as they have the ball, Lukaku automatically drops back, whilst El Shaarawy and Gotze bomb back down the flanks as quick as they can into a 4-4-1-1:


NUMBER 2:

Gotze-Martinez--Marchisio-El Shaarawy
----------------Lukaku
-----------Lewandowski----------

This is very solid defensively, and our formation change will be very quick and smooth.



NUMBER 1 makes us more threatening in the central areas, to tear apart the CB's. It will also conjure up more space for the two DM to thrive on where they can find their man with ease, where they have more time to spot runs and passes, with Bonucci looking to cover them if they run out of position. However, if we get caught out NUMBER 2 will be implemented, where we efficiently switch formations to narrow down the midfield very very quickly, and isolate Aguero. Also helps as the wingers will help come deep to deal with Neymar and Hulk/Son

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 Khedira, 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/Lukaku, or the feet of El, but also should look to set up Luiz, who will no doubt be lurking just outside the box, for a volley or long shot. On the other side, El Shaarawy is a brilliant finisher, and he loves to take on his man, whilst he’s always reliable when it comes to making runs off the last man. His rapid pace must see him chase the ball every time it breaks loose, whilst his lethal runs will always be a danger to 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 Lukakui will see the 2 combining well, as El Shaarawy is fantastic at finding his man, whilst Lukaku'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 Chelsea half, just ahead of the FB, to shut out Neymar and Hulk.

NOTE: El Shaarawy 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, Lukaku is the dream striker to play alongside in a 4-4-2 as not only does he drop back, but he attacks every ball in the box and is great at holding it up. He will threaten every aerial ball that is played to him, and his power will be used to hammer Kompany and Subo. Next to him, Lewandowski is a great finisher, and must use his his head to flick on any balls to the wingers, and must link up with Lukaku to score precious goals. Our 2 forwards must look to combine at every opportunity. Lewandowski must also look to to finish off every chance that falls his way, and he is brilliant in the air, so must outmuscle the defenders, when it comes to taking crosses of Carvajal and Gotze/El Shaarawy . He will rely on his quick thinking, positioning, Technical ability and Finishing Prowess and look to crumble the Birmingham defence, with his brilliant knack of finding the back of the net

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 Luiz 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 Lukaku 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 losing/drawing at 60: Matic > Nastasic & Icardi > El Shaarawy, super sub comes on, we go 4-3-3:


------Martinez------Matic
-----------------Gotze
-------Lukaku-Lew-Icardi

Luiz goes CB, Matic a very physical presence in midfield, this front three is nothing short of deadly to snatch a goal or two

If losing/drawing 75: Griezmann > Gotze, raw pace and creativity will go really well with the tired legs of Chelsea out there, impact sub



If winning at 60: Papadopoulos > Lukaku, 3 at the back, go ultra defensive to get the win, however, we must use counter attacking tactics, as we don't want it to be a back to the wall job

---------------------------Koval
-------Papadopoulos--Bonucci--Nastasic
--Carvajal--Javi Martinez---David Luiz--Schmelzer
---------------Mario Gotze------El Shaarawy
--------------------------Lewandowski

Extra eyes to keep on Neymar, and Gotze and El Shaarawy move central, the way the like it, but will drift out wide in attack, and track backwards to deal with wingers in defence

posted on 13/7/13

-----------------------Akinfeev
Clyne---Alderweireld---Mangala---Nagatomo
----------------Inan------------Pogba
Yarmolenko------Dzagoev------Mertens
------------------------Sow
Subs
Ruddy, Hubocan, Lombaerts, Schneiderlin, Kokorin, 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
Dzagoev 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 - Hubocan and Allen for Clyne and Pogba - 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 4 all have the pace and ability to trouble on counter attacks.

If Losing

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

posted on 13/7/13

-----------------------Cech
Johnson---Hummels-------Agger-----Clichy
----------------------Denisov
-------------Schweiny------Modric
Robben------------------------------------Ribery
----------------------Gomez
Subs
Begovic, Blind, Garay, Payet, Dembele, Salvio, 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
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. 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 - Salvio for Robben - Fresh legs and extra defensive workrate.

76 mins - Dembele and Blind for Modric and Clichy - 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 Denisov - 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.

comment by Kanga (U3095)

posted on 13/7/13

---------------------------Trapp ---------------------
Iraola----Jagielka --------Lescott ----------Robinson
------------M’Vila ------------------Cabeye ------------
Ben Arfa------------------Michu --------------Turan
------------------------Sturridge ---------------------------
Subs: Savic , Knockaert, Carroll, Assaidi, Fer, Romeu Aspas

Trapp will command his back line.
Jagielka will mark Arsenals main striker while Lescott will sweep away any loose balls in the box.
Iraola and Robinson have the licence to go forward and support the attack when necessary
M’Vila is the enforcer in midfield, while Romeu sits. Cabaye will act as the play maker with good distribution of the ball making the team tick.
Ben Arfa and Turan will as always attack the full backs with great pace and dribbling, whipping balls into the box or cutting inside and taking a shot so they don’t become predictable. The two can also act as inside forwards if necessary
Michu is lethal in the air and had good control of the ball. He will play behind Sturridge, playing him through or taking a shot from his lay offs.
Sturridge will attack the Arsenal defence with pace and dribbling and be alert for any rebounds or balls across goal.









Subs if losing after 70 mins

------------------------Trapp---------------------
Iraola----Jagielka --------Lescott----------rOBINSON
------------M’Vila --------------Fer --
Arnautovic----------------Michu-----------------------Turan
--------------- ----------------StURRIDGE ------- ------------------

Fer more box to box for an attacking impetus.
Arnautovic on for fresh legs
If Turan looks jaded, bring Assaidi on
If winning after 70 mins
Romeu on for Michu (extra guy in midfield)
Aspas on for Sturridge (more chasing the channels)

posted on 13/7/13

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

posted on 13/7/13

----------------Courtois
Piszczek---Kalas-----Dante---Marcelo
-----------Matuidi--Ramires
Lamela----------Mata--------Baptistao
----------------Cavani

Subs: Diego Alves, Cahill, Marrone, Asamoah, Hernandez, Martinez, Villa

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

Game Plan: We need the points, we'll take the game to them, looking to attack with pace and fluidity, using the CMs as our platform to get the ball into the attackers, they'll have free roles to find the space and use the ball. As soon as we lose it we are pressing high up the field and looking to win it back quickly to get back on the front foot.

Individual roles:

Courtois will look to command his area, coming to collect crosses and then distribute the ball out quickly to get us on the front foot.

The two FBs have a license to move forward when the attack builds down their side, they are both excellent attacking FBs who are capable of making runs on the outside of our wingers, looking to get the byline and put crosses in, or they can make runs in the inside, dragging players with them and getting into the channels to open up space and get in position to cut the ball back. Marcelo is also excellent at long diagonal balls into the striker and we should utilise this as much as possible. Defensively they use their pace and knowhow to get the wingers into tight positions, standing up to them and not allowing them to cut in and get a shot away or easy crosses.

Dante will man mark the CF, getting tight to him and being physical, looking to stop him from being able to control the ball and therefore making it difficult for him to get into the game. He gets the tackles in and wins the arial duals. Kalas will play as the sweeper in the side, looking to read the play well and use his pace to get infront of the opposition and make the interceptions. He can also drop back and cover Dante if anything beats him.

Ramires and Matuidi will provide the engine room in the side. They are constantly looking to get in the faces of the opposition and win the ball, before supplying it to the forwards. They can take in turns to make driving runs forward, looking to push the team up the field and give Sunderland more to worry about defensively.

Lamela, Mata and Baptistao all have free roles. Mata is the heart of the side looking to get on the ball, deeper and wide to spread the play and keep it moving before make runs into more central attacking areas, linking the play there and getting in on goal himself too. He should be pulling the strings for us today. Lamela and Baptistao add the pace and flair, they can start wide and take on the FBs, linking with our own to get crosses in or they can cut in and work towards the CF, looking to play off him and get in on goal. They can come infield to receive the ball and link the play too.

Cavani holds the ball up, linking up the play with the rest of the team before making his runs on goal. He has to attack all the crosses and make runs in behind the defence so the others can pick him out.

Subs:

If Winning: Asamoah and Marrone for Baltistao and Matuidi 70'.

If Drawing: Villa for Baptistao 70'. Hernandez and Martinez for Cavani and Lamela 75', go 4-4-2.

If Losing: Same as above.

posted on 17/7/13

Sunderland

---------------Schmeicel---------------
Uchida----Amore----Sakho----Ekotto
------------Canos-----Aimar-----------
L.Narsingh----Kiyotake----Giacherini
----------------Huntelaar---------------

Smithies, Musacchio, Rode, Defour, Kalou, Ibarbo, Bent

Solid back four, Sakho uses his raw power to pick up the main striker and doesnt give him the room to manouver hwere as Amorebietta sits spare and watches for any other danger coming through and is onto them very quickly. Both no messing and clear high balls away from danger.
Uchida and Ekotto will support the wingers by going on the outside to look for a pass or at very least to take the full backs away to free uip more room for the wingers, if they can fire in crosses early into the box. Defend the lines and keep the wingers away from the danger area.

Canos is the DM, he doesnt venture away from the CBs he sits and protects them and stops the AM dictating play, works very hard and always sniffing out danger to close it down. Aimar is the play m,aker usually higher up but i want him to control the play from a little deeper, picking out dangerous passes to those around him and follow th pass to get the team moving around and confusing the opposition, will help what he can when defending.
Narsingh, Kiyotake and Giaccherini will be a handful, with pace and skill will go at there defence and look to take them on and support Huntelaar as much as possible, with support from the fullbacks our wingers will look to either play them down the line and cut in or use them as dummy runners for them to take the ball to the inside and get into the box, all useful at shooting so shouldnt be afraid to have a pop. Help defend by tracking there fullbacks and defensive midfielders.

Huntelaar is a mean machine up front, always looking to get in on the act and get the goals. Good movement and will look to get into dangerous positions. Leap early and get above the CB marking him and always on his toes on the last man.

Captain - Amorebietta
Penalties - Huntelaar
Free Kicks - Aimar
Corners - Wingers

Subs:-
65 Mins - Rode > Canos fresh legs

Losing -
75 Mins:- Ibarbo and Kalou for Aimar and Narsingh 4-1-4-1 attacking

Winning -
75 Mins - Defour for Aimar
80 Mins - Musacchio for Kiyotake 5-4-1

Drawing
75 Mins - Kalou for Narsingh
80 Mins - Bent for Huntelaar

posted on 17/7/13

Portsmouth vs Birmingham


-------------------Maksym Koval--------
---Carvajal---Bonucci--Nastasic---Schmelzer
----------Javi Martinez---Nemanja Matic--
Mario Gotze-------------------------------Draxler
------------Lewandowski---Lukaku

Subs: Koval, Danilo, Luke Shaw, El Shaarawy, Papadopoulos, Griezmann, Icardi

Game Plan: We will look to attack our opponents using a slick, pass and move game. We believe we have the abilities in defence to pass the ball out and start counter attacks, as Nastasic is dynamic and will carry the ball forward, and alongside him, Bonucci is an excellent passer of the ball, and mustn't be afraid of stepping into midfield at times to use his fantastic ball playing skills. Our two CB's must look to play the ball out if defence, as they both suit each other very well. Daniel Carvajal and 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 is best known for his brilliant vision and passing skills, great movment in midfield, and fantastic drive, so he will play in the deep lying playmaker role-but must guard the back line alongside Martinez against what we think will be Birmingham's solid midfield 3-, before turning into a kind of B2B when needed. We wont be playing an AM, but Lukaku will be playing CF and 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 Julian Draxler. Gotze's job will be to run at Taylor/Blind, take him on, and whip in low balls for Lewandowski and Lukaku, who are both guaranteed to finish them off. His pace is his best asset, and is clearly faser than Schmelzer so will look to take bim on and beat him every time he ges the ball. Blind/Taylor is Birminmgham's biggest weakness as Clichy is out, and this is a great spot to target. Gotze will have lots of space available to him. Julian Draxler will be on the other end, and use his dazzling dribbling ability, and superb acceleration to turn away from fullbacks, and clip in high balls for Lewandowski and Lukaku 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 Draxler. Alongside him, Lukaku is the one to drop into midfield and harry Inler/DM, putting pressure on him. He has immense strength (99 Strength on FIFA when In form FFS!) and is very fast, so wuill trouble the defence all day. Both CBs come up for corners to put pressure on their CBs

Target areas:-

RB: we will look to take advantage of Birmingham's Johnson, who is a good RB, and whilst his defensive side has improved a lot-and I am against the topic that he can't defend-he is an attacking RB, and tends to leave back gaps at times when he goes forward. Draxler works this out brilliantly, and will flourish in the freedom. It w ill be a real dream chance for Draxler to shine, with him looking to bathe in the space given to him, he will cause problems down the left, which shows we will have the advantage down both flanks

LB: Clichy is injured, and Birmingham's second/third choice LB's are no where near his level. We will specifically target the LB area, and we have deployed our best player in a position to tear it apart

DM: Although Inler is still decent, he is much more of a Box to box for Napoli than a DM so we will look to over power him and make sure Gotze and Draxler drift in to give him problems, whilst Lukaku will drop back to over power Inler. This is where the game will be won

LCB: Agger has been very poor from set pieces this season for Liverpool, so when it comes to corners, we will look to target him specifically and make runs in behind him, whilst the 2 big men from the back will come forward ready to get their heads on anything. Lukaku + Lewandowski should be hard enough to handle as it is..

RW: Robben is extremely inconsistent, but on his day is a wonder, however, we have seen that whenever he tries to come inside, he nearly always tries to go for ambitious shots, so we will specify Schmezlerto mark him down the wings and prevent any crosses, but when he comes inside, Schmelzer must keep his ground, not allowing Robben to pass him.

ST: If Gomez plays, he's had a poor season in terms of playing time, and if he plays, we will look to shut him out, and push his confidence further lower


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

Defence: We will start off in a 4-4-2 formation, relying on Carvajal and Schmelzer to do what they do best, and really attack the flanks, with Gotze and Draxler 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 Lukaku will be lurking. On the other side, Schmelzer is well balanced, but is a terrific dribbler, so he must look to take on his man, and venture into the Brimingham half as much as possible, and look to play short 1-2's with the likes of Matic 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 Birmingham will struggle to break down, as it limits their pacy wingers (Robben and Ribery) to run in behind the defence. Javi Martinez will be expected to drop back a notch, ala De Rossi, when they attack, where he can keep his eyes on Schwein and Modric 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 Birmighams defence, as we look to play in Gotze and Draxler, whilst Gotze and Draxler 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 Birmingham's strong midfield, but later go on to turn box to box when on attack. However, Matic must never neglect defensive duties, and his immense determination 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 Draxler with sly passes and through balls, to try and find a way in behind Brums defence. Ahead of him, Lukaku will be playing CF, but must also help out defensively dropping back into midfield when we are under pressure, we must revert to a 4-2-3-1


-----------Matic--Martinez
Gotze-------Lukaku-----Draxler


As this will bring more stability to the midfield, and can contain Brums attacks down the centre of the pitch. However, Lukaku' 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 Crisicoto is caught out, we must rely on Matic to 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 Draxler 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 Crisicito to stay back at all times, as with Gotze and Draxler playing forward roles, we don't want lack width at all:

NUMBER 1:


---------Martinez---Matic
-----------------------------------
Gotze-Lukaku-Lewandowski-Draxler

This will be when we are on the attack. As soon as they have the ball, Lukaku automatically drops back, whilst Draxler and Gotze bomb back down the flanks as quick as they can into a 4-4-1-1:


NUMBER 2:

Gotze-Martinez--Matic-Draxler
----------------Lukaku
-----------Lewandowski----------

This is very solid defensively, and our formation change will be very quick and smooth.



NUMBER 1 makes us more threatening in the central areas, to tear apart the CB's. It will also conjure up more space for the two DM to thrive on where they can find their man with ease, where they have more time to spot runs and passes, with Bonucci looking to cover them if they run out of position. However, if we get caught out NUMBER 2 will be implemented, where we efficiently swich formations to narrow down the midfield very very quickly, and isolate Aubameyang.

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 Inler, 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/Lukaku, or the feet of Drax, but also should look to set up Luiz, who will no doubt be lurking just outside the box, for a volley or long shot. On the other side, Draxler 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 Lukakui will see the 2 combining well, as Draxler is fantastic at finding his man, whilst Lukaku's passing is extremely good for a striker. If any chance falls to Draxler, 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 Birmingham half, just ahead of the FB, to shut out Ribery and Robben.

NOTE: Draxler 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, Lukaku is the dream striker to play alongside in a 4-4-2 as not only does he drop back, but he attacks every ball in the box and is great at holding it up. He will threaten every aerial ball that is played to him, and his power will be used to hammer De Vrij and Agger. Next to him, Lewandowski is a great finisher, and must use his his head to flick on any balls to the wingers, and must link up with Lukaku to score precious goals. Our 2 forwards must look to combine at every opportunity. Lewandowski must also look to to finish off every chance that falls his way, and he is brilliant in the air, so must outmuscle the defenders, when it comes to taking crosses of Carvajal and Gotze/Draxler. He will rely on his quick thinking, positioning, Technical ability and Finishing Prowess and look to crumble the Birmingham defence, with his brilliant knack of finding the back of the net

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 Lukaku 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 Draxler then the opposition can always expect the unexpected.

Subs:

If winning on 60: Papadopoulos > Lukaku, we go 5-4-1, with Papa dropping into CB, and Matic alongside Marty in midfield taking up his place at DM. 3 CB's and a World Class DM, try getting past that

---------Martinez----Matic
---Gotze--------------------Draxler
-----------Lewandowski

Very defensive change to halt Birmignahm, with Schmelzer and Carvajal providing great width when we need it. Really nulify Birmingham. Front 3 providing excellent options, the type of formation Lewandowski, Gotze and Draxler will thrive off

Whatever score on 60: El Shaarawy > Draxler, if winning he goes LW in formation above as a direct replacement, if losing/drawing, he offers much more goalscoring wise than Draxler

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

If drawing/losing on 75: Icardi > Matic: Three up front, offers great danger up there

posted on 18/7/13

-----------------------Cech
Johnson---Garay------Hummels-----Clichy
----------------------Denisov
-------------Schweiny------Modric
Robben------------------------------------Ribery
----------------------Gomez
Subs
Begovic, Blind, Agger, Payet, Dembele, Salvio, 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 Garay looking to snaffle the resulting knockdown, when the ball is on the floor, Garay 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 Hummels will be making a covering run if Garay 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
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. 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 - Salvio for Robben - Fresh legs and extra defensive workrate.

76 mins - Dembele and Blind for Modric and Clichy - 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 Denisov - 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.

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