ASTON VILLA

4-2-3-1

_________________________Navas_____________________
Zabaleta________Mertesacker__Koscielny________Umtiti
_______________Fernandinho____Kroos________________
Turan_________________Lacazette_________________Son
______________________Sturridge____________________
SUBS: Begovic, Toprak, Gustavo, Gerrard, De Bruyne, Vela, Pelle

Captain: Toni Kroos
Right free-kicks: Toni Kroos
Left free-kicks: Toni Kroos
Penalties: Daniel Sturridge
Right corners: Toni Kroos
Left corners: Toni Kroos

GEGENPRESSING is a highly-organised approach and will be our approach to regaining possession and minimising space for the opposition. My opponents are rapidly closed down by well-rehearsed, co-ordinated pressing movements, often by two or more players, allied with intelligent positioning to restrict space for opposition to pass and move into. The best moment to win the ball is immediately after after my team just lost it. Once we have regained possession, the transition from defence to attack will be explosive. We will be an attacking team. Aim is to move the ball around efficiently and with purpose, with many forward passes and none of Spain’s useless sideway passes. Play on the counter if dominated, but move the ball around when they sit back. Passing will be quick and intelligent, players moving into space and plenty of interchange between the three attacking midfielders. Team will look at the striker as the focal point with attacking midfielders running off and beyond him, linking up efficiently. When defending Turan and Son will drop back to help, Lacazette stays up as the out ball and Sturridge prepared for anything lumped up to him. Team must attempt to block shots at all times. Deep defensive line. * When defending we will play two banks of four and be compact leaving little space in between the lines. So when defending we will go into this mode:

Turan - Fernandinho - Kroos - Son
Sturridge - Lacazette

And when we get the ball we will look to set loose the speedsters up front with the whole team pushing up a bit to at least outside our 18 yard box and switch back to our normal formation.

Navas:
Claim crosses if possible. Always clear lines and play safe, take no risks. Looks to set off counters with his distribution.

Mertesacker and Koscielny:
Deals with opposition attackers. Koscielny keeps an eye on their attacking midfielder when he gets close to the 18 yard line. Koscielny will also mark their striker closely not allowing him space to turn. Koscielny or Fernandinho will deal with knock-downs to their supporting player depending on who is closer. Mertesacker will try and win headers when long balls are played towards the back line. Mertesacker will also clean up any balls / players who manage to get past Koscielny. Koscielny will be the centre half who steps up and clears up balls before it reaches their attackers, but must only go if he’s 100% sure he’ll get it. Go up for corners. If in the event that an attacking midfielder / second striker is not played then Koscielny will just have to deal with the midfield runner but not get dragged too far out of his defensive line.

Zabaleta and Umtiti:
Zabaleta will be disciplined for this match, but when we get the ball and whoever the opposition manager plays goes on one of his inside runs Zabaleta will look to overlap Turan and run into the box. Zabaleta and Umtiti both will show the opposition wide players to their weak foot, threat weakens when they are shown away from goal. Both will sit back when without the ball, but Umtiti will bomb forward when the opportunity arises. Main aim is to provide width and provide extra bodies in midfield to link up play. Stays back for corners. Must not commit to tackles otherwise wingers will skip past them, just stay close, limit their space and show them onto their weaker foot.

Fernandinho and Kroos:
Sits deep, breaks up play and snap at their heels. Fernandinho is an engine that can cover a lot of ground when defending. Fernandinho will hardly ever go past the half-way line. Kroos will buzz around and dictate play, bursting forwards at times to provide an extra body in attack. Kroos will be a bit ahead of Fernandinho to be more involved in exchanging passes with full backs / Lacazette, even going level with Lacazette at times to use his incredible vision to find teammates. Kroos will need to make himself a goal threat with his late runs into the box in this match. Fernandinho stays close to the centre halves. Both sprays balls wide to fullbacks when they get forward. Stays back for corners. Will not allow the opposition any time on the ball in front of centre halves. Fernandinho sticks to position when fullbacks fly forwards, providing cover if needed. Kroos drops deeper when this happens.

Turan, Lacazette and Son:
Will constantly swap positions with each other. Will look to thread through balls to Sturridge and exchange passes with each other. Constantly drifting in and out of position, into space to make it difficult to mark. Can cross when out wide. Son should always track back to help the fullbacks and midfield when defending. Lacazette can burst past Sturridge and shoot if needed. Constantly runs at their defence. All will press the opposition when without the ball. Son will be drifting inside a lot and because he has stamina of six men he will therefore chase down the ball a lot and aim to create when he gets the ball. In this match when we don’t have the ball I will need Turan to sit on their deep lying midfielder and disrupt him. When Zabaleta gets forward during his rare forward runs Son will attempt to find him at the far post for Zabaleta to knock the ball across goal for Sturridge Lacazette Turan to knock in, with Son arriving late to gobble up possible rebounds. They will also try and double up on a full back if required (like Robben and Ribery both attacking the same fullback).

Sturridge:
Holds up the ball, brings the three attacking midfielders into play. Play on the shoulder of the last man, always sets himself at the far post for crosses. Will keep the centre halves occupied. Will chase down opposition centre halves when they have the ball.

SUBS:
Winning/Drawing:
75 mins: Lacazette OFF Gustavo ON
Gustavo replaces Lacazette and we go 4-3-3 with Gustavo dropping back. We will then aim to keep the ball for as long as possible even if we have to do pointless sideway passing but if space opens up, work the ball forwards to try and create a chance.

Losing:
75 mins: Fernandinho OFF Pelle ON
Go 4-2-4 with Pelle Sturridge centre Turan right Son left. Lacazette supports, Kroos holds and sprays passes from deep. All out attack, have to go level at least if not win it. When we lose the ball Turan goes central to provide support in centre mid and Sturridge goes to the right to provide that outlet. Switch back when we have the ball. Both full backs go forwards in turns and we will squeeze them back into their 18 yard box. Our CBs will not stick too close to the striker in case they get turned, Koscielny will be ready to chase back towards goal while Mertesacker will position himself to nick the ball off the attacker as soon as he gets it. Whatever second attacker from the opposition will be watched by the full back staying back depending on which side.

Scored the goal(s) to get all three points / to win the tie ONLY AFTER the Pelle change:
Whatever minute: Sturridge OFF Toprak ON
Whatever minute: Lacazette OFF De Bruyne ON
They’re gonna pen us back whether we like it or not, so we will go 5-4-1 with Toprak slotting into a back 5. Turan will come into the centre along with Kroos with De Bruyne right and Son left, Son up front. Son will provide the counter attacking threat when we win the ball back and him and Pelle will break at their (supposedly) abandoned defence. This is not me playing defensive football voluntarily, this is the opposition forcing us into our box like we would’ve forced them into theirs and me providing a counter measure to this situation.

PORTSMOUTH v Newcastle

Team Sheet:

------------------------------Lloris------------------------------
------Carvajal--------Pepe-----Hummels-------Marcelo-----
----------------------------De Rossi-----------------------------
-------------------Herrera--------Modric-----------------------
-----Gotze-----------------------------------------Sterling-----
-------------------------Lewandowski--------------------------

Substitutes: Horn, De Sciglio, Veltman, Asamoah, Cuadrado, Shaqiri, Immobile

Captain: De Rossi
Penalties: Lewandowski
Corners: Gotze
Free Kicks (short): Gotze
Free Kicks(long): Modric

Game Plan:

In the first home game for the new regime, we want to take complete control of the game from the very start. For this game, we want to be in control of the ball for the vast majority of the game so that we can dictate the tempo. It will be very important to dictate tempo, especially early in the game, as Newcastle is a notoriously quick starting team and we want to nullify their most dangerous asset.

In order to maximise our control of the game, we will be looking to play with an organised pressing game, similar to Borussia Dortmund’s style, WHICH involves a solid back line and pressing high up the pitch often using two or three player to crowd the opposition out and force them in to mistakes.

If, at any point, it appears as though a high pressing game is not working against Newcastle’s formation, our team will settle on Plan B wherein we will play slightly deeper with a solid back 4 and two banks of three sitting in front of the defence to minimise space in which Newcastle can play. Our three midfielders will sit deep in our half in a narrow trio in order to prevent Newcastle playing through the middle while our wingers will cover space on the flanks and Lewandowski will run the line.

In possession, we will be aiming to keep hold of the ball as much as possible. The 3 man midfield has a dual purpose: 1) To crowd out the midfield when Newcastle has the ball 2) To provide an extra man to pass to when in possession.

In this game, we will be perfectly happy to play the ball around the midfield and back 4 for extended periods of the game before looking to play the ball forward. Our goal is to frustrate the opposition in to pushing forward, whereby gaps will appear in their formation and the creative talents of Modric, Sterling and Gotze can combine with the clinical finishing of Lewandowski.

We will sit deep when on the ball so that we can expand our playing space, giving our players plenty of room and time to pick the right pass. In defence, we will try to make the playing area as small as possible, forcing Newcastle to go more direct, where our pacey fullbacks and strong centre backs can mop up the ball.

Individual Plans:

Lloris: Great shot stopper and confident at claiming crosses. We want him to mimic Neuer in a sweeper role, also.

Carvajal and Marcelo: Marcelo is superb going forwards and will be given every freedom to move forward. Carvajal, too, is good going forwards and he will also be allowed to push high up the pitch but will need to be wary of our defence being overrun. His priority will be to maintain a solid defensive structure and keep the ball ticking over.

Pepe and Hummels: Not much needs to be said for these two class players. Strong in the air, good one-on-one defenders. They will be looking to move the ball out wide for the most part but will, ideally, be giving each other time and space to play the ball around the pitch with freedom.

De Rossi, Herrera and Modric: Modric will be looking to emulate his role for Real Madrid. De Rossi is a good passer and will be looking to spread play about the pitch but his first duty in attack is to drop just in front of the centre backs so that they can push wide. Herrera is the engine today. He will be the most mobile midfielder when defending, looking to get about the pitch and he will be the link between midfield and attack on our counters.

Gotze and Sterling: Both players will be looking to beat their full backs one-on-one but will also switch flanks and move in to the centre, probing for gaps.. Gotze and Sterling will hold their positions on the wings to prevent the opposition full backs pushing forward.

Lewandowski: Lewandowski will be looking to get himself in to the game in any way possible, but it by dropping deep to help play move up the pitch or by standing on the last man and looking to break through. He will press the centre backs when we are out of possession so that they have no space to move the ball around the back.


Substitutions:

70 minutes: Asamoah for Herrera – Herrera will be tired after an active game and so Asamoah will pick up where he left off.

75 minutes: Cuadrado for Sterling – Gotze will move to the left wing with Cuadrado taking position on the right. Roles will be unchanged.

80 minutes: Shaqiri for De Rossi – With Modric and Asamoah in midfield and Cuadrado in front, Shaqiri can move to the right wing and look to provide a more direct outlet to run at the tired Newcastle defence.

We will line up for the last 10 minutes as

Modric Asamoah
Cuadrado
Shaqiri Lewandowski Gotze

Southampton

----------------------Ospina----------------------
A.Arbeloa-Vertonghen-Dominguez-Robertson
-------------N.de Jong---M.Kovacic-------------
Pereyra------------Hernanes----------Downing
---------------------Huntelaar--------------------

Rajkovic, Jones, Barry, Cabella, Menez, Piazon, Babacar

Back four led by Vertonghen I want to staty tight, the two CBs must dominate the CF, which we know will be difficult as Bony is a powerful lad, but we must keep him away from goal, Vert will man mark and Dom will be the spare cb, Robertson and Arbeloa must stop the wingers getting the ball to Bony get onto the men quickly and force them wide, Attack when possible and support the wingers best they can.

De Jong is the enforcer in midfield, Kovacic there to help and he is the one that starts attacks from deep. His passing and vision are tremendous so once the ball is won get it to Kovacic who will then fire it forward to dangerous positions, De Jong always sits just in front of the cbs allowing Kovacic to venture forward sometimes. The three in front are a hard working trio, when we are defending it becomes 451 with hernanes going to the right of De Jong, with players like Wanyama, McCarthy and Ramires this could be one almight battle so they must be up for it. Attack wise Pereyra and Downing will look to get the early crosses in for KJH and make sure they are straight to his head as he is excellent in the air, if playing on the deck look to use hernanes as a pivot man for one twos to get beyond the defenders. He will be in the free role looking to pick up from Kovacic and move it out quickly to the wingers or pass and drive on with KJH. Who as the main striker will look to move around dragging the two apart to allow himself space to attack when the ball comes in from wide positions, look to rise early to beat static CBs, a powerful CF also good on the ground but not blessed with pace, so positioning is vital for him.

Captain - Vertonghen
Pens - KJH
Free kicks - Hernanes
Corners - Wingers

Subs
Losing
70 Mins
Piazon for Hernanes, Babacar for KJH, Cabella for Downing

Winning
80 Mins
Barry for Kovacic, Babacar for KJH

Comment deleted by Article Creator

ASTON VILLA

4-2-3-1

_______________________Navas______________________
Zabaleta________Mertesacker__Koscielny__________Shaw
_______________Fernandinho____Kroos________________
Turan_________________Lacazette________________Koke
______________________Sturridge____________________
SUBS: Begovic, Toprak, Gustavo, Lucas, De Bruyne, Son, Pelle

Captain: Toni Kroos
Right free-kicks: Toni Kroos
Left free-kicks: Toni Kroos
Penalties: Daniel Sturridge
Right corners: Toni Kroos
Left corners: Toni Kroos

GEGENPRESSING is a highly-organised approach and will be our approach to regaining possession and minimising space for the opposition. My opponents are rapidly closed down by well-rehearsed, co-ordinated pressing movements, often by two or more players, allied with intelligent positioning to restrict space for opposition to pass and move into. The best moment to win the ball is immediately after after my team just lost it. Once we have regained possession, the transition from defence to attack will be explosive. We will be an attacking team. Aim is to move the ball around efficiently and with purpose, with many forward passes and none of Spain’s useless sideway passes. Play on the counter if dominated, but move the ball around when they sit back. Passing will be quick and intelligent, players moving into space and plenty of interchange between the three attacking midfielders. Team will look at the striker as the focal point with attacking midfielders running off and beyond him, linking up efficiently. When defending Turan and Koke will drop back to help, Lacazette stays up as the out ball and Sturridge prepared for anything lumped up to him. Team must attempt to block shots at all times. Deep defensive line. * When defending we will play two banks of four and be compact leaving little space in between the lines. So when defending we will go into this mode:

Turan - Fernandinho - Kroos - Koke
Sturridge - Lacazette

And when we get the ball we will look to set loose the speedsters up front with the whole team pushing up a bit to at least outside our 18 yard box and switch back to our normal formation.

Navas:
Claim crosses if possible. Always clear lines and play safe, take no risks. Looks to set off counters with his distribution.

Mertesacker and Koscielny:
Deals with opposition attackers. Koscielny keeps an eye on their attacking midfielder when he gets close to the 18 yard line. Koscielny will also mark their striker closely not allowing him space to turn. Koscielny or Fernandinho will deal with knock-downs to their supporting player depending on who is closer. Mertesacker will try and win headers when long balls are played towards the back line. Mertesacker will also clean up any balls / players who manage to get past Koscielny. Koscielny will be the centre half who steps up and clears up balls before it reaches their attackers, but must only go if he’s 100% sure he’ll get it. Go up for corners. If in the event that an attacking midfielder / second striker is not played then Koscielny will just have to deal with the midfield runner but not get dragged too far out of his defensive line.

Zabaleta and Shaw:
Zabaleta will be disciplined for this match, but when we get the ball and whoever the opposition manager plays goes on one of his inside runs Zabaleta will look to overlap Turan and run into the box. Zabaleta and Shaw both will show the opposition wide players to their weak foot, threat weakens when they are shown away from goal. Both will sit back when without the ball, but Shaw will bomb forward when the opportunity arises. Main aim is to provide width and provide extra bodies in midfield to link up play. Stays back for corners. Must not commit to tackles otherwise wingers will skip past them, just stay close, limit their space and show them onto their weaker foot.

Fernandinho and Kroos:
Sits deep, breaks up play and snap at their heels. Fernandinho is an engine that can cover a lot of ground when defending. Fernandinho will hardly ever go past the half-way line. Kroos will buzz around and dictate play, bursting forwards at times to provide an extra body in attack. Kroos will be a bit ahead of Fernandinho to be more involved in exchanging passes with full backs / Lacazette, even going level with Lacazette at times to use his incredible vision to find teammates. Kroos will need to make himself a goal threat with his late runs into the box in this match. Fernandinho stays close to the centre halves. Both sprays balls wide to fullbacks when they get forward. Stays back for corners. Will not allow the opposition any time on the ball in front of centre halves. Fernandinho sticks to position when fullbacks fly forwards, providing cover if needed. Kroos drops deeper when this happens.

Turan, Lacazette and Koke:
Will constantly swap positions with each other. Will look to thread through balls to Sturridge and exchange passes with each other. Constantly drifting in and out of position, into space to make it difficult to mark. Can cross when out wide. Koke should always track back to help the fullbacks and midfield when defending. Lacazette can burst past Sturridge and shoot if needed. Constantly runs at their defence. All will press the opposition when without the ball. Koke will be drifting inside a lot and because he has stamina of six men he will therefore chase down the ball a lot and aim to create when he gets the ball. In this match when we don’t have the ball I will need Turan to sit on their deep lying midfielder and disrupt him. When Zabaleta gets forward during his rare forward runs Koke will attempt to find him at the far post for Zabaleta to knock the ball across goal for Sturridge Lacazette Turan to knock in, with Koke arriving late to gobble up possible rebounds. They will also try and double up on a full back if required (like Robben and Ribery both attacking the same fullback).

Sturridge:
Holds up the ball, brings the three attacking midfielders into play. Play on the shoulder of the last man, always sets himself at the far post for crosses. Will keep the centre halves occupied. Will chase down opposition centre halves when they have the ball.

SUBS:
Winning/Drawing:
75 mins: Lacazette OFF Gustavo ON
Gustavo replaces Lacazette and we go 4-3-3 with Gustavo dropping back. We will then aim to keep the ball for as long as possible even if we have to do pointless sideway passing but if space opens up, work the ball forwards to try and create a chance.

Losing:
75 mins: Fernandinho OFF Pelle ON
Go 4-2-4 with Pelle Sturridge centre Turan right Koke left. Lacazette supports, Kroos holds and sprays passes from deep. All out attack, have to go level at least if not win it. When we lose the ball Koke goes central to provide support in centre mid and Sturridge goes to the left to provide that outlet. Switch back when we have the ball. Both full backs go forwards in turns and we will squeeze them back into their 18 yard box. Our CBs will not stick too close to the striker in case they get turned, Koscielny will be ready to chase back towards goal while Mertesacker will position himself to nick the ball off the attacker as soon as he gets it. Whatever second attacker from the opposition will be watched by the full back staying back depending on which side.

Scored the goal(s) to get all three points / to win the tie ONLY AFTER the Pelle change:
Whatever minute: Sturridge OFF Toprak ON
Whatever minute: Lacazette OFF De Bruyne ON
They’re gonna pen us back whether we like it or not, so we will go 5-4-1 with Toprak slotting into a back 5. Koke will come into the centre along with Kroos with De Bruyne right and Turan left, Pelle up front. Turan will provide the counter attacking threat when we win the ball back and him and Pelle will break at their (supposedly) abandoned defence. This is not me playing defensive football voluntarily, this is the opposition forcing us into our box like we would’ve forced them into theirs and me providing a counter measure to this situation.

-----------------Valdes-----------------
Montoya Jagielka Van Dijk Darmian
---------------Wanyama---------------
-Shaqiri McCarthy Ramires Lallana-
------------------Bony------------------

Marshall, Davies, Sissoko, Firmino, Januzaj, Naismith, Austin

Same old 4141 formation Shaqiri comes in for Januzaj, we aim to break them down by playing a solid midfield trio who will hound their players down and not give them the time they want or need on the ball, we also have the wide players and Bony to really hurt them, set pieces will be key as we have some big targets to aim for such as Jagielka, Van Dijk and Bony who are all powerful in th air.

Victor Valdes, experienced goalkeeper, great shot stopper, great to have him in goal behind the back four. Will look to dominate his patch of grass and get the ball moving quickly.

Montoya and Darmian at fullback, Jagielka along with van Dijk who comes back into the side. We must keep concentration at all times, Mark the attacking players ie Montoya and Darmian must stop their wingers getting to the bye line any way they can and stop them cutting inside. Van Dijk will pick up their centre forward and mark him very tightly. Jagielka is the Captain and he is there to lead by example, keep the back four in a line when we defend making it impossible for them to break us down. Van Dijk is a huge pressence at set pieces as is Jagielka so for set pieces and corners they both go up, Wanyama sits in.

Wanyama again in the DM role, a hard man to break done and very effective in the tackle his experience gets him into the correct positions when he needs to be to stop there attacking midfielder, do not allow him time or space to support the CF or indeed shorten the time he has to pass the ball around him. McCarthy and Ramires in the centre of the pitch, look to dominate the game, both Ramires and McCarthy can move up the field to assist Bony, but they must be careful, we cannot be exposed against a very good Birmingham side, In Shaqiri and Lallana we have two very quick wingers, when we attack I want it to be done very quickly. Down the right I want Montoya and Shaqiri to work in tandom, thus using each other to get the space required to get to the bye line, give and go. Shaqiri is very quick andskillful so will be a handful for there Left back. When the right hand attacks Darmian stays back, Lallana moves into the box to support Bony and the same on the other side when the left hand side attacks, Shaqiri gets into the box, Montoya stays back, so when we are going forward we always have at least two ready to pounce on the cross balls, McCarthy or Ramires on the edge and depending what side two players down the wing looking to get these cross balls in.

Defending this must be a stringent 4-1-4 system that will stop them coming through, they must work hard as they have some fantastic players who must not be allowed to play.

Wilfried Bony is the prefect No.9, big, strong, a bit of pace and most of all he can score goals, can hold of the CB marking him and drive into the area. Or indeed, he can hold the ball up looking for the support coming his way in Shaqiri, Lallana, Ramires and McCarthy, Always on the last man ready to get into dangerous areas.

Captain is Phil Jagielka
Penalty taker - Wilfried Bony
Free Kicks - Lallana
Corners - Shaqiri and Lallana

Substitutes

If we are losing on 70 minutes McCarthy will come off and Firmino will go to an AM position leaving Ramires and Wanyama in the middle, Naismith on for Lallana for the LW
On 80 Minutes if we are still losing Firmino will go to the RW and Austin will replace Shaqiri and go up fron in a 442

If we are winning, 75 Minutes Sissoko will replace Ramires in the middle and Naismith for Lallana on the left
85 Minutes, Austin for Bony

Drawing the subs will be the same as if we are winning

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

Tactics vs Chelsea

----------------------------------Forster--------------------------------

Juanfran---------Benatia-----Otamendi----------------Alex Sandro

---------------------Witsel-------Marchisio----------------------

Walcott----------------Rodriguez-------------------L.Moura

-----------------------------Aubameyang--------------------------


Game plan: our plan today is to go at Chelsea from the off. We're experimenting with a new team and system and will be looking to express ourselves and continue our good form. We will look to press high up the pitch, Successful pressing is dependant on group understanding, collective perception of ball, opponent and team mate, and a massive amount of hunger and desire to have the ball. It isn’t possible to press for 90 minutes. We will have to pick our times wisely in order to do it successfully. If our players are tracking back or not close enough to the ball it isn't sensible to press the ball, we will look to capitalise on poor passes by the opposition or when a player is facing his own goal or has his head down when receiving the ball, at these times to opposition player does not have a full view of the pitch and cannot pick a forward pass.

In possession we will have many lines of players in order to create easy triangles for the players on the ball, the player on the ball should always have at least 2 passing options, the full backs will also go forward creating an almost 3-4-3(2-3-2-3)formation when in possession, this reverts to a 5-4-1 formation when we lose possession.

In possession

-------------Benatia---------------------Otamendi----------

Juanfran---------------------Witsel------------------Alex Sandro

--------------------Marchsio-----------Rodriguez-----------------

Walcott------------------------------------------------L.Moura

--------------------------Aubameyang -------------------------------

out of possession

Juanfran------Benatia-------------Otamendi--------Sandro

---------------------Witsel---------Marchisio--------------------

Walcott--------------------James-------------------Lucas

-----------------------------Aubameyang-----------------------------


Forster: fantastic goalkeeper, excellent shot stopper and very confident coming off his line, will look to release the ball quickly in order to start attacks, when he gets the ball the full backs will push forward and the centre backs will spread out offering themselves for the pass, will only go long if there is no other option.

Defence: as has been spoken about in the game plan section, the full backs will look to push up the field when we are in possession creating the multiple lines across the pitch which is the basis of our possession philosophy. The central defenders will look to stay close to one another when out of possession, the full backs will also tuck in leaving little room in the centre of the pitch, while the midfield and attack will cover the defence of the wide areas, this is not the specific job of one player as we are playing in a fluid system, it will be whoever is available to do the job at that point in time. Benatia and Otamendi are to talk to each other constantly and be wary of the movement of the arsenal forwards, but they will not be sucked out of position, Witsel and Marchisio will be providing cover in front of the back 4, so if the CF wants to drop off, the CB's are to hold their position and communicate to Witsel and Marchisio that they have an extra man to watch.

Midfield and Attack: Witsel will by and large stay in position in the holding role in the midfield. He will look to snuff out space for the opposition attacking players, and always be available for a pass when we are in possession. The 4 players in front of Axel will play very fluidly, and as has already been stated they will look to press the opposition when the time is right, all 4 possess good pace and stamina and are able to get up and down the pitch.

Marchisio will get up and down the pitch throughout, has terrific energy and is very creative and can carry the ball, will look to move the ball quickly, as will the whole team, we will play with a high tempo throughout the game not giving Chelsea any breathing space.

James will look to find space in possession, whether that means moving wide or into the gaps between the lines, he has the ability to run at the opposition and take the opportunity to shoot and link with Aubameyang, Walcott and Lucas who will bomb forward and provide an outlet in the wide areas. We will look to get James on the ball as much as possible as he is our most creative players. He will have a lot of freedom to roam and find space throughout the match.

Aubameyang will play as the centre forward for us today, his pace, movement and energy suits the change in the way we are going to play, he will look to roam across the pitch, dragging defenders out of position which will leave space for the other attackers and our midfield to benefit from, as stated previously in the tactics he is part of the fluid front 4 we are playing with today so will pop in different areas of the pitch on occasion, we are not just going to throw the ball into the box at every opportunity so his running of the channels and his technical ability are crucial in the way we want to play.

If losing/drawing -

Rossi for Lucas Moura 80 switch to 4-1-2-3, more direct, we have lightening pace up front so knock the balls into the channels and get the arsenal defence on the turn

Southampton

---------------------Ospina-----------------------
-----Phil Jones--Vertonghen--Dominguez-----
Pereyra---Hernanes----Coquelin---L.Enrique
---------------------Kagawa----------------------
------------Huntelaar-----E.Lavezzi------------

Rajkovic, Walker, Kovacic, Downing, Sneijder, Kiessling, Hazard

We go for the win against a very well organised WBA, they play quite defensive, so we go quite attacking, Vertonghen will mark Bony and keep the big striker away from goal, if Jones or Dom have too they will fall in behind in case Vert loses him, this three will stick to there defensive duties and not stray too far forward, if they attack Enrique will get into the lB role and Jones will shift across. No messing about. Coq will sit just in front of them to support them in defence. he will take care of the AM of them and not allow him to push on to support Bony, allowing hernanes more freedom to get forward and play the ball about. Pereyra and Enrique will work tirelesssly defencively and attack wise, when they attack get back, but alos get up and support the front htree, get the ball in for Huntelaar who is fantastic in the air. Kagawa is in a free role allowing him to shift about and drag players away, he has the freedom to dictate the play and get it into the front two, although Lavezzi is kinda in a SS role and playing off KJH, he and kagawa will look to drag defenders about. Allowing KJH the space required. Lavezzi will be a left forward supporting Enrique as we attack down that side, pass and move get his erse into the box. KJH is the target manhe looks to get in on goal or at least look for the other two supporting him so he can knock it down or play it back to them. Always jump early for crosses coming in to beat defenders to the ball.

Captain - Vertonghen
Penalties - Huntelaar
Free Kicks - Kagawa
Corners - Lavezzi

Subs:-
Losing 70 Mins - Sneijder for Kagawa, Kiessling for Enrique, Lavezzi out to LM
80 Mins - Thiorgan for Hernanes, Sneijder drop deeper, Thorgan to AM

Winning - 75 Mins - Kovacic for kagawa, go to CM, Coq sit in behind, lavezzi into AM
85 Mins Thorgan for Lavezzi, Kiessling for KJH

Drawing - 70 Mins - Thorgan for Kagawa, Kiessling for Lavezzi, Downing for Enrique

Everton (4-3-3)
…………………Kivrak……………..
Richards….Nastasic…Skrtel….Criscito
…………………Toulalan………………
……….Montolivo………Jorginho……..
Menez……………………………….El Shaawary
…………………..Sakho…………………………………….

Subs: Blackman, Vidic, Valero, Volland, Pato

Tough game away at United but we go here to play our game and are set up for swift counter attacking football, we’ve a solid spine and blistering pace out-wide, we’ll use this today to our advantage as we invite them onto us before hitting them quickly on the break

Kivrak – Standard keeper stuff…come for crosses catch not punch, either take the easy out ball to the full-backs or go long to Sakho

Richards/Criscito – First things first they’re in the side to defend, both have good engines on them and pace to burn so they can get up and down the flank all game, with our wingers liking to cut inside they will run the over-laps as we break at pace and try and hit Utd with a sucker punch, defensively will show the man the line and force the cross as both of our CB’s are comfortable with the aerial ball
Nastasic/Skrtel – Not sure how UTD line up so it’s sort of Zonal marking for us, Skrtel is the muscle so will be the “first knock” defender dealing with the aerial balls and closing down the striker, Nastasic is more comfortable on the ball and will sweep up the loose balls as well as tracking either a second striker or a late run from midfield
Toulalan – A proper anchor man will act as a shield infront of the defence, his presence there gives our full backs the freedom to kick on as we will effectively have 3 CB’s…Keep is simple opting for the easy ball, if one isn’t on he can play it into space for our wingers to chase down
Montolivo/Jorginho – Monty comes in for his debut and will be the play maker of the side, not afraid to get stuck in will add more defensive solidity to our side, whilst possessing a fantastic range of long and short passes to kick start any counter-attacking opportunities that might arise…. Jorginho is our box-boxer today has an eye for goal and his late darts into to the box create space for others, will be expected to do a fair bit of running today but he’s a capable enough player

Menez/El Egypt – 2 more Milanista’s making their debuts, both are absolute rapid, both removed from defensive duties, the furthest they drop is to stay on side as we look to peg back Utd’s defence into their own half, Both men will be supported by our full backs, who when they run the over-lap out wingers will cut in and attack the space between full back and centre-back, this coupled with runs from midfield should enable us to over-run Utd on the break.
Sakho – Has done well for West Ham this season and comes in as the traditional target man, Big strong and good in the air will look to try and split the CB’s, Think I read all his goals this season have been from headers so with our flying wingers and full backs he should get bags of service


Subs:

65 Mins regardless

Volland > Menez
Pato > Sakho

Our heavy pressing and hitting on the counter tactic is energy sapping so these changes are for fresh legs,
Volland – Is doing very well in Germany and will play as an out and out winger towing the line and keeping the pressure on United as we continue to defend from the front.
Pato – different type of striker, but he’s quick and a clever runner perfect to bring on against tiring legs, especially as we will still be looking to hit on the break

The end

MANCHESTER UNITED v Everton

Injuries: Antonio Valenica, Nicolas Gaitan, Jonny Evans, Tonny Vilhena

----------------Buffon
Alves - Subotic - Howedes - Gaya
---------Khedira - Perez
--Schurrle - Fabregas - Hazard
---------------Rooney

Subs: Mandanda, Sokratis, Baines, Pirlo, Valencia, Hamsik, Alcacer

---------------

Tough but winnable game at home to Everton, they have some very good players in their side, however we have the players to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front four with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in Perez and Khedira we have two very good box to box players who can hold the fort while also being creative and joining in the attack on occasion.

Buffon - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Rooney.

Subotic/Howedes - Subotic to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Howedes to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their second striker/AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.

Alves/Gaya - Both of you to force the Everton wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Schurrle/Hazard as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Rooney and link with Fabregas. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Khedira/Perez - Khedira the defensive midfielder, assist the CB's in dealing with the Everton attack, if they play an AM stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. If they have a second striker who drops off ensure you're on top of him too. Be first to any loose balls and in possession look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out. Perez is the box to box CM, also able to assist at DM but with more creativity, link the play between defence and attack. Remain composed throughout.

Fabregas - Playing the AM role, with the ball I want you to drift left and right, drag their DM out of position as they will be assigned to track your runs, swap with Schurrle and Hazard on occasion to create confusion and leave space for your teammates to run into. Link with Hazard, Schurrle, Rooney and Perez, look for Rooney on the last defender for a through ball and also shoot if you get the opportunity. Get yourself between their DM and the ball, make them go through you and foul you to stop you, thus creating setpiece chances for us.

Schurrle/Hazard - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Everton fullbacks and get crosses in, but both of you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Rooney with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Fabregas, and capitalise on the space Rooney's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.

Rooney - you will be expected to occupy the Everton centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind.

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Fabregas off, Pirlo on. Switch to 4-5-1 with Pirlo in-between Khedira and Perez. Absorb pressure and hit on the break.
If drawing: Perez off, Alcacer on. Fabregas into CM, Rooney to AM/SS and Alcacer upfront. Same formation but more attacking threat, push for the winner without overcommitting.
If losing: Perez and Khedira off, Alcacer and Pirlo on. Switch to 4-1-3-2, fullbacks push on to wingbacks, Pirlo the quarterback, Rooney and Alcacer upfront. Push for goals.

--------------------Cech
Bellerin---Kompany----Chiellini---Gibbs
---------------------Carvalho
-----------Silva---------Yaya
Ox--------------------------------Di Maria
------------------Aguero

Subs – Foster, Chambers, Kolarov, Ramsey, Hererra, Martinez, Campbell

70 – Ramsey For Carvalho – Swap positions with Yaya
75 – Herrera with Ox – swap positions with Silva

Game Plan – I want my team to play counter attacking football. We need to be in their faces by continuously pressing them and keeping all men behind the ball (when we are off the ball). When on the ball we need to be direct and composed. We need to use our wingers as much as possible because that is where I believe we can take advantage of them. Their full backs will be attacking a lot and leaving plenty of gaps behind them. We need to dominate the midfield battle and control the game how we want it to be controlled. We need to control possession and work the ball into spaces. Try and keep it tight for the opposition so when we get the ball we can exploit any spaces left.

Our full backs and wingers shall press as well. Our team will be aiming to obtain the ball as soon as possible and then punish the opposition with swift attacks. We want to play a deep defensive line and keep things tight on the pitch. Therefore we shall aim to keep our defence behind the centre circle off the ball bar our full backs who will be invited to move forward. We want to reduce the amount of freedom the opposition has on the ball. Our players will keep close to the opposition’s men and push them back. We want to force errors out of them and push off the ball. Our two centre backs will stick together, whether that is when we are off the ball or when we are up for set pieces. The full backs shall cover the goal area during these set pieces. Our full backs shall be keeping our defensive line tight when we are off the ball, sticking in a line with our centre backs. However on the ball I want them moving forward and helping form the attacks. Our two defensive midfielders will be looking to slow down play, hold the ball and create opportunities by moving the ball forward as quick as possible. Defensively this will force the game to be tight and cancel out the opposition. On the ball it should free up space for our attackers and move forward as quickly as possible.

Our attacking play will be fast and neat. Our two defensive midfielders will be breaking up play, holding on to the ball and then setting our wingers free. This means we want to play with plenty of pace. Out of our 2 wingers Ox is our fastest and we are likely to get some space in this area. Silva is playing central today so he should be able to make plenty of runs. Our wingers and number 10 shall be integrating with each other’s play and therefore we will have plenty of options during our attacks.

Positional Tactics:

Bellerin should play as a wing back. I want him to move forward during our attacks. He should stay out wide to create a crossing option. I want him to create space for our wingers. While defending Bellerin should try and push the player back. If he can’t do that he should push him out wide to a position where he has to kick the ball off. Gibbs should play the same way.

Kompany should use his height and strength to keep the striker(s) out of the game. I want him to keep with that attacker at all times or keep him offside. He should try and header every ball out of the box or kick it away preferably to the wingers. He should only go up for corners/free kicks. Chiellini should play the same way as Kompany.

Carvalho will be the DM. He should look to disrupt their attacking play and reduce the space around their playmaker. He should hold his position and not get caught up field. I want him to control the style of the game we play. While acting as cover for our defence he should also separate the midfield from the defence by keeping hold of the ball and form attacks.

Yaya will be our box-box midfielder. I want him to identify spaces up the pitch. He should take hold of the ball and supply it to any of the front 3 ahead and try to exploit any space. When we’re attacking I want him to move up and stay in space. When off the ball he should be a ball winning player.

I want Ox to use his skill and pace and make runs into the box. He must use his pace to outrun the full back but also his quality control of the ball to dribble round him. When we’re off the ball I want him help Bellerin cover their full back. I would like Di Maria to do the same.

Silva should use his pace and strength to make runs into the box and opening up space for Aguero. He will look to supply the ball to the wingers as well. Try and force their defensive midfielder to move out of position and allow our wingers to use that space by running into the centre. Off the ball he should drop back and play deeper therefore he will be able to use more of his trickery to open up games during a counter attack.

I would like Silva, Ox and Di Maria to intersect and change positions.

Aguero must use his pace and skill to open up spaces for the wingers and central players to run into. I want him to stay inside the box so that he remains an option in the middle. However he should drop deeper to bring the defenders forward and open up space behind them. He should look to overpower their defenders with his pace and strength and height. He should constantly look to move into space to create himself as an option for the defence. When we’re defending he should mark the player at the edge of the box.


Captain: Yaya
Vice Captain: Chiellini
Penalties: Silva
Free Kicks: Silva
Corners: Silva

-----------------------------------Courtois
Azpilicueta-----------N'Koulou------------Terry--------Bertrand
-------------------------Matic------------Asamoah
Cuadrado----------------------Garcia------------------Griezzman
---------------------------------Costa

Subs: Ryan, Corchia, Kondogbia, Verratti, Oscar, Origi, Benteke

Captain: John Terry
Free Kicks: Juan Cuadrado/Antoine Griezzman
Corners: Florian Antoinne Griezzman
Penalties: Raul Garcia


We expect Birmingham to try and control things so we will defend our half of the field getting everyone but Costa back behind the ball, with a compact defence and a midfield not giving Birmingham space on the ball. We will let them play a high line and then take advantage on the counter with a front three full of pace and skill and able to get past challenges to push us forward.

We will begin our defending just inside our half, using Costa and Garcia to press the CMs, not giving them time and space to pick their passes and making them rush the ball into the midfield area where we make it nice and compact, no room for anyone. Once the ball is played we want Garcia dropping in alongside Matic and Asamoah, being the man to step out and press the opposition with his constant work rate, not allowing these CMs or anyone dropping deep to have time and space, look to force them wide. The rest of the midfield act as a 4, with the two wide men narrow to our DMs it keeps everything compact and makes it impossible for the likes of Schwein and Reus to play through, if they get past one player there is another one covering. The wingers have bags of energy and will use that to be the first to get out to the wings if Birmingham chose that route, slowing the attack and allowing the rest of the team to move across to compact the space in the wide area and cut off the options, with the FB coming out to cut out space behind our winger and Garcia and Costa across to shut off the central options, whilst Matic and Asamoah do likewise. Make sure that they are forced into a slow tempo, always under pressure and never have an easy pass available to them, this will be particularly key when they use Navas, don’t let him stretch the game.

Otherwise we expect them to mainly look central and when they do this it becomes very easy for us to keep a compact shape and leave them no space to pass into. As already said above, Costa and Garcia pressing, the wingers tucked in. Matic and Asamoah will shield the defence, looking to use all their energy/power against this Birmingham side, putting in plenty of hard tackles on the likes of Reus. They won’t leave their position, no stepping out and leaving a gap, they will always be in front of the defence, we want to stop them getting behind us, and let them play in front of us, with Cuadrado and Griezzman alongside them to help put Birmingham under pressure. The back 4 will be compact, CB and FB joined together so that A) there is never any space between them and b) if a defender is beaten they have someone there covering. Stand up up to them and don’t dive in, when Birmingham go wide the FB steps out to cover that space with the rest of the defence also moving across so that a massive gap isn’t left, with a DM also able to cover this space and Garcia able to drop into the DM zone. We will be extremely organised and tough to break down, giving them no space centrally, always leaving them 2-3 players to get through and 2 banks of four and two spare men if they try to pass through us.

We will look to hit a depleted back four on the break. With Birmingham pushing forward this allows us to try out our plan A today. As soon as the ball is won we want to go wide and attack them on the areas where they are weakest, particularly the left side. Cuadrado and Griezzman have the work rate, pace and trickery to be able to break from their defensive positions and get to the flanks, as soon as the ball is won this should be their direction of movement. If we get it to them we can bypass Birminghams CMs giving us a big advantage, both wingers have the beating of the FBs too, once they are away the midfielders won’t catch them. If we can’t get it wide to either of them we have Costa who relishes these kind of games with space on the counter, he will use his great hold up play to provide the out ball and then wait for the support of the wide men. Once the counter is underway we want the two wide men holding width, not cutting inside until we have the CBs isolated, at this point they can chose to go inside and run at the CBs or stay wide and get the ball into Costa, or Garcia who will be looking to join the attacks. When the ball is won Costa must be ready to move and ruffle some feathers, unsettle their back line, whilst Cuadrado and Griezzman can both make runs in behind for Matic and co to find. If this doesnt work we go to plan B, with Garcia pushing up next to Costa and allowing us to go more route 1 into the two big handfuls, looking to get up the field in this way, once again skipping out their midfield, looking to knock the ball wide and then get the crosses in to the front two, give their CBs something they don’t usually face, they won’t enjoy it.

Individual:

Courtois commands his area, coming to claim crosses and relieving pressure.

FBs wont get forward unless losing, at this point overlap and get crosses in.

Terry mark striker, relishes the physical battle, Nkoulou uses his pace to cover.

Asamoah energy to break through midfield on the counter, he can drive us forward when needed.

Subs:

If Winning: Kondogbia for Griezzman 70', Asamoah to LW, Kondogbia sits and stops the AMs having space. Benteke for Costa 75', 5-4-1, don't leave any gaps for them to exploit. Oscar for Cuadrado 80', fresh legs in midfield.

If Drawing: Oscar for Garcia 70', bit of extra pace for the counters. Benteke for Costa 75', extra strength and speed to attack the defence. Kondogbia for Griezzman 80', Asamoah LW, pace to break away, Kondogbia shores things up in the middle.

If Losing: Verratti for Bertrand 60', Asamoah LB, get forward. Verratti comes on, we press from the front now and looking to retain the ball, Verratti helps us do that and finds the players in space. Oscar for Garcia 65', Oscar helps Verratti as creative forces. Benteke for Griezzman 75', 3-5-2, Azpi as a CB, Cuadrado and Asamoah on the flanks with two up top to put lots of pressure on their makeshift back four.

-------------------Neuer------------------
J.Stones---Varane---Bonucci---Ricardo
--------------------Blind-------------------
--------------Vidal-------Pogba-----------
Sanchez---------------------------Neymar
------------------Benzema-----------------

Krul, Laporte, Guarin, Milner, Willian, Lukaku, Morata

Really a must win game for us today, we go in with confidence in really look to get at the Hull City side.

We line up with Neuer in goal, proved he is the best there is atm, a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that screams at his defence to keep them in position, Will come for high balls and punch clear what he cant catch, comes off his line eatrly to close down strikers to reduce their shooting angles, will release the ball early to set up quick counters.

The defence has been pretty solid this season and this occassion Varane will mark the CF, stick close at all times watching his movement and do not give him space or time to turn in on goal, even when we attack always be mindful of where he is. Bonucci beside him is spare and will help out other defenders if in need, takes a step back to give him just that extra little bit of time in case any one loses there marker, he will be there to close them down. Both cbs are comfortable on the ball so if they have time and in no danger start attacks from deep by carrying the ball out. Stones and Ricardo at FB will have to stay focussed, sit as a four to stop them coming through, look to push the wingers out wide and stop them from getting balls into the CF. When we attack it will be Ricardo who does it the most, he is very quick and has a great eye for goal so with Neymar the two will be a real danger to the Hull rightback, look to drive passed Neymar allowing him to cut inside and look for the return ball to whip in a dangerous cross. Stones will sit in most times and will get up and support Sanchez but not one to sprint passed him so he will just makes himself available to start attacks again if need be.

Blind sits in and takes care of there AM, he will have to be on top of his game against James who is very talented, but Blind has the game in him to shut him out, again always watch his movement and never stray too far away from him as to not allow him the time to turn or dictate play, when he wins the ball nice simple balls to those around him.
Pogba and Vidal ahead of him have the freedom to attack with Blind sitting in, however, when they attack I want them sitting as a three to shut them off. When we go forward both are a big threat in front of goal, they both have loads of stamina and will never give in, pass and move get the wide players into the game, all four (Sanchez, Neymar) are an attacking force who will support Benzema and be a huge threat o there defence. One touch, one/twos to get round there back 4 and into Benzema, always making themselves available for the return ball. A massive driving force in this team and will look to force Hull City back and stop there attacking threat.

Sanchez and Neymar, are both deadly, quick and skillful, love taking on and beating players, Neymar has all the tricks in hos locker, so will frustrate their RB into fouls in dangerous areas, he loves to cut inside so will use Pogba and Vidal to pass and move into a central position where he is deadly in front of goal, with Ricardo bombing up the wing he can also use him as an option to free himself up and rive inside. Sanchez always has his head up looking for team mates, his passing and vision are tremendous and will look to get the ball in between their players and again drive on looking for the return ball so he can either cross in or drive at goal. With Benzema as the focul point both will look to him to knock it down or lay it off if he hiomself cant go for goal, his movement is key today, dont allow himself to be picked up by the CB too closly, as we drive at Hull we must look to drag the defenders away,a t times we will have 6 players going at them so the more we spread the play and move into new positions the morescrambled there defence will become. Allowing us more room to go for goal. Benzema can shoot with eiother foot and if he leaps early enough should win his fair share of headers.

We defend as a team so both wingers must track back, Neymar just stop there RB moving forward and Sanchez the LB. Defend from the front and do not allow them any time on the ball.

Captain;- Vidal
Penalties:- Benzema
Free Kicks:- Left - Ricardo, Right - Sanchez, Central - Neymar
Corners - Wingers

Subs:-
Losing:-
70 Mins - Willian for Blind, Vidal man ,marks, Sanchez move to the LW, Neymar to a No.10 role, Willian RW, more attacking
80 Mins - Lukaku for Benzema straight swap adn Neymar pushing up even further.
85 Mins - 3 at the back in Stones, Varane and Bonucci. midfield of Willian, Vidal, Pogba, Ricardo, Neymar No.10 and Sanchez/Lukaku up top

Winning:-
75 Mins - Milner for Neymar
85 Mins - Lukaku for Benzema

Drawing:-
75 Mins - Milner for Blind, more attack mindedsit alongside Pogba
85 Mins - Lukaku and Willian for Benzema and Neymar, Willian switch with Sanchez

---------------------------Alves--------------------------
Yedlin----------Bruma-----------Albiol---------Maxwell
----------Nolan-------Illarramendi------Motta---------
A.Cerci-----------------------------------------Wellbeck
---------------------------Negredo------------------------

Subs: Baumann, Papadopoulos, Contento, Rami, Lanzini, Tadic, Rondon

General: Counter-attack with pace and precision. We have employed a system where we have a defensive formation and we are to press anyone and everyone who enters deep in our half and we will be doing that in packs. We respect the talent of the opposition but we know if they have no space and no time, they will be frustrated and make mistakes that we must take advantage of. The extra training of finishing of your forwards will help and we need to attack with speed and with Wellbeck and Cerci's pace, we have two quality outlets. All our defence will be helped with the wingers and central midfield that will be at their fittest and expected to chase most of the day. We will fight for every ball and we aim not to concede. Simple tactics but it is effective against technical teams a la Simeone vs Madrid.

Defence
Alves has to be vocal throughout and making sure that the defence marks every player that enters our half so communicating is key. He also has to be be brave on set pieces and take out the ball by catching it but if he takes out a player by 'accident', so be it.

The centre backs chosen are strong and brilliant in the air and good readers of the game. I wanted mobile defenders and Bruma is young, athletic and can make timely interceptions. Albiol will be captaining this side and making sure that that the team remain focussed and lead from example with tackling hard but fair and urging the midfield to press when they can and his defence can back them up.

Yedlin and Maxwell are different types of defenders but both effective. Maxwell more of the interceptor and strong on the ball whilst Yedlin relies on his pace and can stay with man. However, Yedlin has also been told to be more physical and use his strength to hold off the attackers. All of these defenders will have cover from the central midfield or the fullbacks have Valencia and Wellbeck to help them whenever possible.

Midfield
Three holding midfielders chosen are hard tacklers, great in the air and have great engines. Their first task is to protect the goal and press the midfield as quick as possible and try to win the ball back in midfield and let Wellbeck and Cerci set free with their pace. When the three central midfielders have possession, they have to keep the ball wisely and release to the wingers as they should have gallons of space. Nolan great in the air and should be targeted on free kicks, corners and goal kicks.

Cerci and Wellbeck are in because of their pace and work rate. Both to stay in midfield and help full backs by doubling up but once we receive possession, they will both be looking to run wide and in space as we know they cannot be caught. They have to make sure to keep onside and be direct to run towards goal and if Negredo is free, feed him.

Forwards
Negredo may be our only striker but has to start as a attacking midfielder to help press the midfield and keep pressing because they will not like it as they need time and space.
Negredo will be helped by the wingers when we attack and have amples of space.


Subs:
IF LOSING:
Tadic for Motta 75mins. Tadic to go further field and assist the forwards.

IF WINNING:
Tadic on Negredo 75mins. Tadic to swap with Wellbeck


Capt: Albiol
Free kicks: Cerci
Corner takers: Cerci
Pens: Negredo
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Arsenal v PORTSMOUTH

--------------------------Lloris----------------------------

-Carvajal--------Pepe--------Hummels-------Marcelo-

------------De Rossi-----------------Matuidi------------

-------------------------Modric--------------------------

-------Gotze-----------------------------Sterling-------

---------------------Lewandowski----------------------


Substitutes: ter-Stegen; De Sciglio; Veltman; Nainggolan; Lampard; Candreva; Jese

Captain: De Rossi
Penalties: Lewandowski
Corners: Sterling
Free Kicks: Gotze


Game Tactics:
This is a very big game for us which will test our abilities to the fullest. Facing Arsenal away is no easy feat but it has been proven before this season that positive results are there for the taking. We have set up with a 3 man midfield designed to be combative in defence and creative in attack. The game today will revolve around the midfield battle and so we must be ready to fight for the ball at every opportunity.

Defence:

Our defensive strategy is to make the playing surface as small as possible so that Arsenal cannot build attacks from the back. For this, we need strict man marking and heavy pressing in midfield with an aim to cutting off all possible forward options and, if necessary, double man-pressing the ball carrier.

We know that Arsenal have some very talented attacking players and so we must be organised at the back to nullify their threat. With this in mind, we have a solid back 4 and 2 very accomplished combative midfielders sitting in front, aiming to sweep along the line. De Rossi and Matuidi have very important roles today as they will need to reinforce the line wherever it is the weakest. A lot of this will most likely result in one of them double teaming a winger but they will also be looking to press high up the pitch when Arsenal have the ball at the back, this will ensure that Arsenal have a limited space to move the ball forward.

Carvajal and Marcelo will not be given the freedom of attack that they usually enjoy, given the nature of our opponents, today. Their primary duty today is to be full backs and look to keep goal side of the Arsenal wingers. Our aim is to keep them running along the line where they won’t be as effective as we expect Pepe and Hummels to dominate in the air. At the centre back position, Hummels will look to man mark the centre forward – looking to keep close enough that he has no space to turn at goal but not enough that he leaves himself exposed – whilst Pepe will switch been dropping deeper to cover and pushing forward in to midfield in order to help win back the ball.

Modric, Gotze and Sterling, whilst primarily attacking players, will also be expected to defend heavily. The two wingers will be tracking the Arsenal full backs all game, making sure they don’t double team any area of our defence, whilst Modric will be looking to hassle the Arsenal midfield, aiming to take the ball back as quickly as possible.

Lewandowski, as always, will be the first line of defence, pressing along the back 4, hoping to cause a mistake.


Attack:

Our attacks will need to be fast, precise and effective today. We will not be in this game expecting large periods of sustained possession so we must be prepared to break on the Arsenal defence as quickly as possible. If the defensive side of our game works, we should be looking to win the ball back in midfield when Arsenal has begun to push up and are in an exposed formation. The attacking three of Lewandowski, Gotze and Sterling have the pace to punish any attack in the world and, when given the opportunity, they will break on the Arsenal back 4.

In attack, there will be no set positions for the front 3 as they are all equally adept and playing along the front line. They will be looking to run at the defence, which will cause them problems, and exchange quick, short passes between each other in order to create space.

Modric and Matuidi will push up as well, leaving De Rossi to hold the midfield from a deeper position, leaving our attack looking like:

Lloris
Carvajal Pepe Hummels Marcelo
De Rossi
Modric Matuidi
Gotze Lewandowski Sterling

Modric will be looking for that killer pass behind the defence that will unlock Arsenal and put us through on goal whilst Matuidi will be looking to push on and join the attack as he is accomplished in attack and defence.

Normally, Carvajal and Marcelo would push up as well but they will be more reserved today. However, if we are losing late on or feel that victory can be attained in the dying moments of the game, they will be given the freedom to bomb up the pitch, holding to the touchline and allowing our wingers to move inside and double team the Arsenal defence.


Substitutions:

70 minutes: Candreva for Sterling, Candreva will provide a more traditional wing approach. He will be looking to get crosses on to the head of Lewandowski.

80 minutes: Nainggolan for Matuidi and Lampard for Gotze.

Lloris
Carvajal Pepe Hummels Marcelo
De Rossi Modric
Candreva Lampard Nainggolan
Lewandowski

Nainggolan will be looking to combat Arsenal’s midfield and also drop deep so that Marcelo can push up. Lampard will be looking to play as a shadow striker where he can pop up and get a late goal for us.

--------------------Perin
Clyne-----Mustafi-----Godin-----Clichy
--------Strootman-------Pjanic
Callejon----------Mata-------------Nasri
------------------Suarez
Subs
Sczezney, Rojo, Siquera, Henderson, Parejo, Feghouli, Higuain

Tactical Overview
For the first 20 minutes we are going to try and blitz the opposition, try to get an early goal or 2, then sit back into a counter attacking style with inverted wingers to allow full backs to provide width when attacking. and working in groups of 2 or 3 to press high up the pitch get the ball back by stayng on their feet and nick the ball rather than sliding in to launch quick transitions from defence to attack.



Keeper


When distributing the ball, he should look to keep it simple and play the simple pass. At crosses and set pieces, should look to punch rather than flap at pressurised catches.



Full Backs

Defensively the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, but then to push the opposition winger out as wide as possible to limit their opportunity to get a good cross in.

 Their objective when attacking will be to push on and make overlapping runs down their respective sides, keeping the pitch as wide as possible to try and stretch the opposition defensive line and be available to put crosses in.
 


Centre Backs

Godin will compete with the striker for the aerial balls played to him, with Mustafi concentrating on winning the 2nd ball. When the ball is on the floor, Mustafi will be the defender who looks to meet the striker looking to stifle his space and rush his decisions, with Godin 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.



Centre Mids


Pjanic will look to create himself little pockets of space so he can get on the ball and keep the game ticking over, Strootman will be playing a more all round game looking to put himself about, being a key figure in the pressing game and using his energy to get forward and make late runs into attacking positions. When defending, both players will be key components of our pressing game closing down the midfielders and restrict them to minimal time on the ball.

Attacking Midfielder

Mata should be looking to make himself available for a pass as much as possible, when we have the ball in the middle of the pitch, he shouldn't be afraid to come a bit deeper to get the ball and take on players himself or look to make an attacking pass. He should also look to be making late runs into the box as an attacking option when we have the ball out wide. When defending, he should be looking to occupy the defensive pivot, stop him being an out ball for the opposition.





Wingers


When they are off the ball, the emphasis for both wingers will be to drift around combining with the other attackers to get little areas of space to take advantage of the quick transitions from defence to attack. then when they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with Mata and Suarez, they should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a free kick or penalty. When the opposite winger has the ball, the winger without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body for any crosses. When defending, they should be blocking the passing lines to the full backs as well as keeping track of them when they go forward.





Striker


When attacking, he will look to play a high energy game by being a willing runner down the channels and constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to face the defenders and take them on. He will also be looking to use his unpredictable style when on the ball to cause a bit of confusion in the minds of the defenders and crate a chance for himself or others. He also has a knack of being the first to react to get onto rebounds or parries and taking those one touch chances. When defending, he will be the first line of defence, looking to pressurise the centre backs into making quick decisions.

Set Pieces



Corners - Pjanic takes the corners, the CB's go into the box, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's, Suarez and Callejon work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a free run at the ball, Strootman looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving around the 6 yard box. Mata and Nasri take positions just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and occasionally providing the short pass option to try and draw 2 defenders out of the box.





Free Kicks - Suarez takes Direct FK's



For Indirect FK's, follow the same directives for Corners





Penalties - Suarez is the designated taker.





Subs



If Winning


72 mins - Henderson for Mata - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
 move to a 3 CM midfield.




85 + 87 Mins - Feghouli for Callejon and Siquera for Nasri - Fresh legs and more defensive players with the added element of running down the clock.



If Losing



71 Mins - Higuain, Siquera and Rojo for Clyne, Clichy and Parejo - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and we go all out attacking for a way to get back into the game.

The mood in the camp is at an all time high, two wins on the bounce and the arrival of van Persie and Cavani to the dressing room has the players in confident mood. This is a huge game for us as we look to carry on with the momentum and gaining ground on those above us.

3-4-2-1. Inherently an attacking formation that aims to take the game to our opponents and defend high up the pitch. Stretch the play as wide as possible when in possession. The formation is rigid in defence, and fluid in attack.

-------------- Casillas
--- Musacchio - Carrick - Manolas
Danilo -- A.Song -- Inler ---- Moreno
------- A.Ljajic ----- C.Eriksen
--------------- Cavani

Subs. Butland, VDW, Biglia, Sigurdsson, Rosicky, Konoplyanka, Carroll

Musacchio and Carrick playing out from the back and dictating the tempo of our play. In front of them we have a solid team, capable of defending in numbers, but importantly being able to park the bus high up the pitch. The formation also allows us to stretch the opposition going forward.

As soon as the opposition enter the middle third of the park we look to win the ball back. Eriksen has covered more ground but for three players at the halfway stage, that energy is vital in front of the power of Song and Inler.

The midfield pairing will look to quickly feed the attackers who will drop deep to collect the ball. We’ve gone for wbs, and defenders who will be able to control possession, with the cms providing energy and strength in front. Pace in attack and out wide will be key to stretching the opposition’s setup, and making it extremely difficult for them to play their way out of defence.

Cavani up front is tasked with using his pace to stretch the opposition defence and pull players out of position. Create pockets of space for himself, and our attacking players to get into where they can hurt the opposition.

Defence

We will look to defend high up the pitch, playing a high pressing game. If the opposition have possession in their own half, our formation will resemble a 3-5-2. Looking to get all bodies in the opposition half bar our 3 cbs. Put high pressure on the opposition. Don’t let them play.

In the middle third, when the opposition attack the back 3 narrow to the side of the park the opposition are attacking. Musacchio/Manolas pick up their more adavanced wide forward and striker. Carrick is spare.
The wb on that side to pick up their fb getting forward or doubling up on the winger. On the other side the wb drops deep, picking up their winger.
If they switch play we simply move across quickly as a unit to setup in the same manner on the other side.

Essentially, we seek to negate the problem of space behind an attacking wb, by our wide cb being in a position to instinctively cover. Our high defence will consist of our forward, wbs, two ams and one cm pushing forward to mark and close down the opposition. One cm remains in a deeper position to cover in front of the back three, negating the space between the cbs on the side of the play.

We only retreat into a back five as part of a deep block after the initial high block had been bypassed and the opposition are moving forward into our half.

As the opposition progress up the pitch, we will drop deeper as the opposition enter our half. With 3 cbs the gaps between them are generally smaller, and with the additional cover of Danilo and Moreno it will be difficult for the opposition forwards to find space.

In central positions they will have two walls of midfielders to bypass, first Eriksen and Ljajic, and then Song and Inler. In wide positions, the midfielders work in a pair Song/Ljajic and Inler/Eriksen, to close any space. Their wide players will already be marked. So getting around them, marking any central player looking to get involved. Closing them down and winning the ball back.


Attack

We will be patient moving the ball out from defence, the midfield however will look to be direct in the opposition half. Quick passing football, keeping the ball on the deck. Pass and move simple. We want the midfield to be quick on the ball, not taking too many touches, find our forwards quickly, then look to get forward and ahead of them.

We have three defenders who are comfortable on the ball, we will generally look to start attacks playing out from the back. Our midfielders will look to come deep, to orchestrate the play, and entice the opposition out of position. Create gaps in their formation.
The midfield should never be flat. Create as many lines as possible to increase the options we have in possession, and to create gaps in the opposition.

Wbs look to get at the opposition fbs, with Cavani, two ams and 1 cm bombing forward, we should overload the opposition defence making it extremely difficult to pick up our players in and around their box. One of the cms will stay deep, Inler. Offering the opposition to go backwards, and allow him to orchestrate our play and pick a pass.

Our setup gives our attackers great freedom when we are attacking, they are able to find the space to get the ball in dangerous areas, and with a strike partner this is far easier.


Subs.
If winning after 65 mins bring on Rosicky for Ljajic. Control possession and fresh ideas.
If winning after 75 mins bring on VDW for Danilo. Fresh pace out wide.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Biglia for Inler. Fresh legs in an important area.

If drawing after 65 mins bring on Sigurdsson for Song. More attacking option from cm.
If drawing after 72 mins bring on for Konoplyanka for Moreno. More attacking option as we push for win.
If drawing after 78 mins bring on Carroll for Ljajic. 3-4-1-2. Route one.
If losing after 62 mins bring on Carroll for Ljajic. 3-4-1-2. Route one.
If losing after 68 mins bring on Sigurdsson for Inler.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Rosicky for Carrick. 4 at the back, well 2 really. Both fbs bomb forward.

If red card play 4-4-1. Attack down the wings. Ljajic right, Eriksen left. Carrick will generally be the one to be sacrificed.

If Casillas, Butland on for Carrick.
If Danilo, VDW for Carrick.
If either cb, no sub.
If Moreno, VDW for Carrick.
If Ljajic. VDW for Carrick. Danilo to rm.
If Song or Inler, Carrick to cm. No sub.
If Eriksen, Konoplyanka for Carrick.
If Cavani. Carroll for Carrick.

Once down to 10 men, we will also seek to replace Ljajic with Konoplyanka as game progresses, ensuring we keep pace in attack.
Next change would be Sigurdsson for first Carrick if he is in cm, or Inler if not. Fresh energy in cm.

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

------------------- De Gea -------------
Piszczek --- Ramos --- Marquinhos -- Coentrao

--------- S.Busquets ---- Fernando ------------
------------------ I Rakitic ------------------------
S.Cazorla ------------------------------- F.Ribery
---------------- Carlos Tevez --------------------

Subs : Caballero, Paulista, Nagatamo, Wilshere, Pastore, Jovetic, Kane
-----------------
Pastore > Cazorla - 60th minute - As the game opens up in the latter stages we'll give Pastore the freedom to play a free role in the centre and look to use his vision to get the strikers/wingers in real space.

Kane > Tevez - 75th minute - Dzeko look to play a similar role to Tevez looking to hold up the play and getting others involved whilst making late runs into the box.

80th min+ (if winning) Wilshere > Fernando - A fresh face in midfield to ensure we can dictate the tempo of the game to our needs.
----------------------
The outline:
We look to play more possession based football today looking to out number our opposition in midfield and taking a firm grip on the proceedings, wingers have the freedom to play their game and cut inside whilst Tevez makes runs in behind and occupies their defence.

We must from the outset look to present a physical and aggressive approach. I want us to prevent them from playing with any rhythm or flow so we must work as a cohesive unit working tirelessely to defend whilst going forward we can exploit them with the pace we possess.

In defence we look to defend deep as we feel this suits our CB’s best in looking to cut off any supply to their striker. We’ll look to dominate physically looking to bully off the ball showing who’s boss. Ramos and Marquinhos must dominate from the outset and their quality should come to the fore. In midfield S.Busquets and Fernando must maintain the pressure and look to disrupt the play.
-----------------
Individual tactics:

De Gea has strong competition so must be on his toes, I want him to command his area, very vocal, quick off his feet and distribution swift and on point.

FB’s both very solid defensively and must look to keep it simple today, we need to present from the outset that it will take an almost striking effort to get past these two, I want us to get as physical as possible looking to muscle them off the ball and generally looking to use a bullying demeanour. Our wingers need to assist them as much as possible doubling up on the opposition’s and not giving an inch so we can prevent them cutting inside and imposing themselves.
Ramos and Marquinhos add additional layers to our defensive solidarity, Ramos is as committed as they come and should look to lead the line. He’s responsible for marking their main striker today and should firmly look to get stuck in going toe to toe with every challenge and pushing him back as much as possible, I want us to suck as much confidence out of their striker as possible due to his limited involvement so he makes fewer runs and worth ethic is questioned. Marquinhos partners Ramos and is entirely in his comfort zone. He should look to keep an eye on second runners and look to keep everything in check generally staying alert to any danger.

S.Busquets and Fernando add force and bite to our midfield, Busquets should look to flex his muscles and get snapping at heels. He must work tirelessly for the full 90 setting the perfect example to others as we work collectively to keep them out. Fernando partners and I want him to run his socks off. I want him getting stuck in so we can retrieve the ball back as quickly as possible and start our own attacks.

Rakitic will act as the focal point, we generally want everything to pass through him. I want him pulling the strings and dictating the play, v direct looking to use his vision to get others in on goal and making late runs into the box to get on the end of deliveries. Cazorla has the freedom to play his game, I want him coming inside and playing short snappy passes linking with others to slice open their defence , Ribery very direct looking to take on players and cutting inside to good measure looking to make things happen.

C.Tevez is the perfect foil for us up top today, v well experienced at playing such a role and will defiantly get the better of defenders as he is strong, powerful and can hold his own. A very willing runner and likes to get involved as much as possible whilst not the type to get bogged down. He’ll look to link-up with others as much as possible and rile their defenders both on and off the ball.
----------------
C - Ramos
FK's/corners - Rakitic/ Cazorla
Pens - Tevez

Southampton

-------------------Ospina-------------------
Caceres---Veltman---Vertong---Monreal
------------ Hughes----Matuidi------------
Pereyra----------Sissoko---------Thorgan
-----------------F.Llorente-----------------

Rajkovic, Walker, Barry, Sneijder, Duricic, Cabella, Kramaric


Strong back 4 Veltman picks up the striker and keeps him away from goal, Vertonghen is the captain keeps the back four right, sits spare and helps out other defenders if needed, Both clear high balls into the area. Monreal and Caceres are solid fullbacks, defesively sound and can attack when need be, look to support the wingers when possible but dont leave the defense exposed.

Will Hughes gets his chance alongside Matuidi, both hard working with a bit of magic to there game, matuidi sits in and lets the energeti Hughes bomb up and down the pitch, stop there attacks by getting right in there face. Sissoko sits just ahead but will help defensively the gangly midfielder will support Llorente best he can.

Pereyra and Thorgan will look to expose the fullbacks and drive at them, look to cut inside and support midfeild and Llorente. If they drive down the wing get the crosses in for Llorente to pounce on.

Llorente looking to pressure KJH for that CF slot has his chance, lead the line hold it up waiting for others to come in and support. Crosses coming in look to leap early and kniock it goal ward.

Captain - Vertonghen
Pens - Llorente
Set plays - Thorgan

Subs
Losing - Duricic for Sissoko on 70 Go LM Thorgan to AM
80 Mins - Kramaric for Monreal 3412

Winning - Barry for Sissoko on 70

Drawing - Sneijder for Sissoko on 70

Swansea:

---------------------------Alves--------------------------
Yedlin----------Bruma-----------Albiol---------Maxwell
----------Nolan-------Motta------Fellani---------
A.Cerci-----------------------------------------Tadic
---------------------------Negredo------------------------

Subs: Baumann, Papadopoulos, Contento, Rami, Lanzini,Ince, Rondon

General: Counter-attack with pace and precision. We have employed a system where we have a defensive formation and we are to press anyone and everyone who enters deep in our half and we will be doing that in packs. We respect the talent of the opposition but we know if they have no space and no time, they will be frustrated and make mistakes that we must take advantage of. The extra training of finishing of your forwards will help and we need to attack with speed and with Wellbeck and Cerci's pace, we have two quality outlets. All our defence will be helped with the wingers and central midfield that will be at their fittest and expected to chase most of the day. We will fight for every ball and we aim not to concede. Simple tactics but it is effective against technical teams a la Simeone vs Madrid.

Defence
Alves has to be vocal throughout and making sure that the defence marks every player that enters our half so communicating is key. He also has to be be brave on set pieces and take out the ball by catching it but if he takes out a player by 'accident', so be it.

The centre backs chosen are strong and brilliant in the air and good readers of the game. I wanted mobile defenders and Bruma is young, athletic and can make timely interceptions. Albiol will be captaining this side and making sure that that the team remain focussed and lead from example with tackling hard but fair and urging the midfield to press when they can and his defence can back them up.

Yedlin and Maxwell are different types of defenders but both effective. Maxwell more of the interceptor and strong on the ball whilst Yedlin relies on his pace and can stay with man. However, Yedlin has also been told to be more physical and use his strength to hold off the attackers. All of these defenders will have cover from the central midfield or the fullbacks have Cerci and Tadic to help them whenever possible.

Midfield
Three holding midfielders chosen are hard tacklers, great in the air and have great engines. Their first task is to protect the goal and press the midfield as quick as possible and try to win the ball back in midfield and let Tadic and Cerci set free with their pace. When the three central midfielders have possession, they have to keep the ball wisely and release to the wingers as they should have gallons of space. Nolan great in the air and should be targeted on free kicks, corners and goal kicks.

Cerci and Tadic are in because of their pace and work rate. Both to stay in midfield and help full backs by doubling up but once we receive possession, they will both be looking to run wide and in space as we know they cannot be caught. They have to make sure to keep onside and be direct to run towards goal and if Negredo is free, feed him.

Forwards
Negredo may be our only striker but has to start as a attacking midfielder to help press the midfield and keep pressing because they will not like it as they need time and space.
Negredo will be helped by the wingers when we attack and have amples of space.


Subs:
IF LOSING:
Ince for Motta 75mins. Ince to go further field and assist the forwards.



Capt: Albiol
Free kicks: Cerci
Corner takers: Cerci
Pens: Negredo
----------------------------------------------------------------------

ASTON VILLA

3-4-1-2

_______________________Navas______________________
___________Can________Toprak_____Koscielny_________
Zabaleta___________Koke______Kroos____________Shaw
_______________________Turan______________________
_______________Vela_____________Son_______________
SUBS: Begovic, Mertesacker, Coleman, Gustavo, Gerrard, Calhanoglu, Balotelli

Captain: Toni Kroos
Right free-kicks: Toni Kroos
Left free-kicks: Toni Kroos
Penalties: Toni Kroos
Right corners: Toni Kroos
Left corners: Toni Kroos

General:
Taiwan’s set-up will be reminiscent to the Dutch team in the 2014 World Cup. A back three, two central midfielders, 2 wing backs, a 10 and two centre forwards. Taiwan’s back three can situationally morph into a back five with the wing backs dropping into the defensive line. Taiwan’s 3-2 defensive block will allow easy circulation of the ball in the defensive area due to the natural positioning of the players in this system. This team will be one that presses in defensive phase, one which moves the ball quickly in transition phase and one which circulates the ball to open spaces. The 3 up front will look to take up good positions and cover space, reducing possible passes for the opposition team. The ball will be moved quickly when Taiwan regain possession to take advantage of opened up space with the opposition not in their normal defensive structure. Both forwards need to make sure they run into wide areas where the full backs are probably missing and get a 1v1 with the centre halves where one could put the ball in and while the other gets into the box, link up with full backs when they come forward as well. The centre midfielder and the number 10 will get up to support the attack. Defending the 18 yard line is the main aim and will limit the opposition to long shots. All players stick to positions and won’t be dragged out of position. If the opposition want to play fancy passing and have 90% possession, let them, but our team will be compact not allowing anything to get into the 18 yard box.

Navas:
Claim crosses if possible. Always clear lines, and hoof up the pitch towards the strikers whenever possible. The ball must stay clear of the 18 yard box at all times. Communication is key with centre halves to avoid confusion when deciding who claims a loose ball / cross.

Can and Koscielny:
Deals with opposition attackers. Koscielny keeps an eye on their attacking midfielder when he gets close to the 18 yard line. Koscielny will also mark their striker closely not allowing him space to turn. Koscielny or Koke will deal with knock-downs to their supporting player depending on who is closer. Can will try and win headers when long balls are played towards the back line. Can will not be as aggressive but step up to attack players that come down his side. Koscielny will be the centre half who steps up and clears up balls before it reaches their attackers, but must only go if he’s 100% sure he’ll get it. Both will protect the central centre half to the best of their abilities. Go up for corners.

Toprak:
Sits in line with the other two centre halves, he is not a sweeper. Will try and win headers when long balls are played towards the back line. Will also clean up any balls / players who manage to get through the other two centre halves. Go up for corners.

Zabaleta and Shaw:
Will both go forwards and support the attack. Will also act as extra bodies in midfield to help with holding onto the ball. Can drop into a back 5 if necessary. Main aim is to provide width and thump in crosses at every opportunity. Shoot if there is a clear sight of goal. Stays back for corners. Must not commit to tackles otherwise wingers will skip past them, just stay close, limit their space and show them onto their weaker foot.

Koke and Kroos:
Sits deep, breaks up play and snap at their heels then break with the ball. Koke is an engine that can cover a lot of ground when defending. Kroos will buzz around and dictate play, bursting forwards at times to provide an extra body in attack. Kroos will be a bit ahead of Koke to be more involved in exchanging passes with full backs / Turan, even going level with Turan at times to use his incredible vision to find teammates. Koke stays close to the centre halves. Both sprays balls wide to wing backs and directly to the front 3. Koke stays back for corners. Will not allow the opposition any time on the ball in front of centre halves. Koke sticks to position when wing backs fly forwards, providing cover if needed. Koke will stand outside the box during set pieces to smack in rebounds if not taking a set piece.

Turan:
Will constantly hit balls towards both strikers and if not possible, to the wing backs flying forwards. The number 10 will press the opposition along with the the other midfielders when without the ball. Will stand outside the box if not taking a set piece to hit a rebound.

Vela and Son:
Holds up play for the support midfielders and spray the ball wide to wing backs when they come forward, if not then they will pull wide to exploit attacking space. Get into the box at every opportunity when their partner pulls out to wide areas. Both should be able to play quick one-twos with each other if they happen to be close to each other. Both will play on the shoulder of the opposition defence and will attempt at times to get in the space between centre halves and full backs, if there isn’t a lot of space. Their pace will allow long balls to be launched occasionally to them.

SUBS:
Winning/Drawing:
75 mins: Turan OFF Gustavo ON
Gustavo replaces Turan and will slot into centre midfield to shore up the midfield and to help keep the ball better in order to close the game out. Proper 3 in midfield.

Losing:
75 mins: Turan OFF Balotelli ON
Essentially going 3-4-3 where Balotelli will join Di Natale and Drmic up front. Offers the option for the others to hoof the ball up to the front line.

Late, you lose slots