ASTON VILLA

3-4-1-2

______________________Begovic______________________
________Mertesacker____Toprak_____Koscielny_________
Coleman_______Koke______________Kroos________Shaw
______________________De Bruyne___________________
_____________Sturridge________Lacazette_____________
SUBS: Mertesacker, Cole, Umtiti, Gustavo, Fernandinho, 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

General:
Aston Villa’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. Aston Villa’s back three can situationally morph into a back five with the wing backs dropping into the defensive line. Aston Villa’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 Aston Villa 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.

Begovic:
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.

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 Koke 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 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. 

Coleman 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 / De Bruyne, even going level with De Bruyne 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.

De Bruyne:
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.

Sturridge and Lacazette:
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: De Bruyne OFF Fernandinho ON
Fernandinho replaces De Bruyne 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: De Bruyne OFF Pelle ON
Essentially going 3-4-3 where Pelle will join Sturridge and Lacazette up front. Offers the option for the others to hoof the ball up to the front line.
ASTON VILLA

3-4-1-2

______________________Begovic______________________
________Mertesacker____Toprak_____Koscielny_________
Coleman_______Koke______________Kroos________Shaw
______________________De Bruyne___________________
_____________Sturridge________Lacazette_____________
SUBS: Mertesacker, Cole, Umtiti, Gustavo, Fernandinho, 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

General:
Aston Villa’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. Aston Villa’s back three can situationally morph into a back five with the wing backs dropping into the defensive line. Aston Villa’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 Aston Villa 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.

Begovic:
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.

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 Koke 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 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. 

Coleman 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 / De Bruyne, even going level with De Bruyne 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.

De Bruyne:
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.

Sturridge and Lacazette:
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: De Bruyne OFF Fernandinho ON
Fernandinho replaces De Bruyne 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: De Bruyne OFF Pelle ON
Essentially going 3-4-3 where Pelle will join Sturridge and Lacazette up front. Offers the option for the others to hoof the ball up to the front line.

somehow it copied twice, it's only once

thanks

MANCHESTER UNITED v Chelsea

Injuries: Davies, Khedira, Vilhena, Subotic

-------------------Buffon
Debuchy - Sokratis - Howedes - Gaya
----------Krychowiak - Fabregas
----------Ozil - Rooney - Hazard
-----------------Mandzukic

Subs: Mandanda, Caceres, Nastasic, Perez, Pirlo, Milner, Schurrle

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

Must win game today, we need to bounce back from recent results and get a win to keep our title ambitions alive, Chelsea have some quality players but we have a front four to match anybody with a lot of emphasis on Hazard targetting Chelsea's RB area. Our front four with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances in general, and in midfield we have a pairing who can dictate the game while keeping the stability required to allow the front four to roam in Krychowiak and Fabregas. We can get at this Chelsea defence with our attack, Mandzukic playing up top with Rooney in behind, and with Ozil and Hazard either side of Rooney with licence to roam and swap positions, and Fabregas playing and playmaking from CM, we should be able to cause significant problems and score a few goals.

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 and Mandzukic.

Sokratis/Howedes - Sokratis 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.

Debuchy/Gaya - Both of you to force the Chelsea 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 Ozil/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 Mandzukic, also link with Rooney and Fabregas when they drop deep. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Krychowiak/Fabregas - Krychowiak to patrol infront of the back four, if they play an AM stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls and in possession look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out. Fabregas the box to box man, assist Krychowiak and the CB's in dealing with the Chelsea attack when we don't have the ball, but in possession get forward, be the link between the defence and the attackers, use your ball playing ability to our advantage, link with Ozil and Hazard, and look to create chances for Rooney and Mandzukic. Remain composed throughout.

Ozil/Hazard - Both playing out wide but in RAM and LAM positions, both of you have the pace and trickery to beat the Chelsea 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. Their DM will be tasked with keeping tabs on you, but with one of you either side of him one of you will be free to cause carnage in the middle of the park. 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. Look to supply Rooney and Mandzukic with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Fabregas, Rooney and Mandzukic, and capitalise on the space Rooney and Mandzukic's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.

Rooney/Mandzukic - you will be expected to occupy the Chelsea 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. Link together to create chances for each other. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Rooney to drop to AM without the ball to make sure we're not exposed to any counter attacks.

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Mandzukic and Ozil off, Pirlo and Schurrle on. Switch to 4-5-1 with Pirlo, Krychowiak and Fabregas in midfield, Schurrle to RW with Hazard at LW and Rooney upfront, Schurrle and Hazard drop deeper out wide to make it 4-5-1. Absorb pressure and hit on the break.

If drawing: Mandzukic off, Pirlo on. Same system, Pirlo a playmaker to come in and give us something different, push for the winner without overcommitting. Pirlo to CM, Fabregas to AM, Rooney to CF.

If losing: Gaya and Krychowiak off, Schurrle and Pirlo on. Switch to 3-1-4-2, back three of Debuchy - Sokratis - Howedes, Pirlo the DM, Schurrle - Fabregas - Ozil - Hazard behind a front two of Mandzukic and Rooney upfront. Push for goals.

----------------------Valdes----------------------
Ivanovic----Smalling----Jagielka----L.Baines
-------------McCarthy----Iturraspe-------------
Willian-------------Fellaini--------------Lallana
-----------------------Bony-----------------------

Marshall, Van Dijk, Cleverley, Johansen, Januzaj, Naismith, Austin

Another very hard game but if we put our mind to it we can take something from this fixture

We are very much an 'up and at em' team with a team full of Premiership players who play very hard and very quick.

Our defence is vastly experienced, with the introduction of Ivanovic at right back this week. He and Baines are very forward driven players who like to attack, so as we must be on the front foot for a good percentage of the game they will do this and support Willian and Lallana, both can be quite deadly in front of goal also. Smalling and Jagielka have held the defence quite tight so again the partner at centre back, Smalling will go mano el mano with the centre forward allowing Jagileka to use his intelligence to roam the defence picking up other attackers.

So, in theory, we have a strong back four who will defend resolutely, however attacking they are all a threat, Baines and Ivanovic in open play when they attack, and Smalling, Jagielka, Ivanovic from corners, whilst these thre go into the opposition box to attack corners, Baines and the two CMs sit back.

Iturraspe comes into the DM role, a hard man to break down not as burly as Wanyama but is still 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. He and McCarthy in the centre of the pitch, look to dominate the game, both Iturraspe and McCarthy can move up the field to assist Bony but they must be careful, we cannot be exposed against a very good side, In Willian and Lallana we have two very quick wingers, when we attack I want it to be done very quickly. Down the right I want Ivanovic and Willian to work in tandom, they know each other very well, thus using each other to get the space required to get Willian to the bye line, give and go. Willian is very quick and skillful so will be a handful for there Left back. When the right hand attacks Baines stays back, Lallana moves into the box to support Bony and the same on the other side when the left hand side attacks, Willian gets into the box, Ivanovic stays back, so when we are going forward we always have at least two ready to pounce on the cross balls, McCarthy or Fellaini on the edge and depending what side two players down the wing looking to get these cross balls in. As said prerviously Willian and Lallana, Willian in particular are hard working winges so will look to help out our fullbacks in what will be a very difficult game, they must get back and support Ivanovic and Baines.

Fellaini comes into the role just in between midfield and striker, at times he can look cumbersome but this is just him, he can turn a game very quickly with a brilliant pass. He is dominate in the air and along with Bony the two should really be a threat to there defence. Look to turn players when he has his back to goal and play in other quick players and Bony himself.

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. Iturraspe sits as the 1 hoping Fellaini comes back as well.

Bony is the prefect No.9, 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 from Willian, Lallana, McCarthy and Fellaini. Always on the last man ready to get into dangerous areas. He is fantastic in the air so must always look to beat the centre back to the ball, always has his head up looking to go for goaWe have a huge aeriel threat from set pieces with the two CBs and Fellaini all there to cause problems.

Captain today is Phil Jagielka
Penalty taker is Wilfried Bony
Free kicks - Leighton Baines
Corners - Willian and Lallana

Substitutes
Januzaj will come on for Lallana on 60 Minutes

If we are winnng then Tom Cleverley will come on for Fellaini on 80 Minutes and drop a little deeper moving into that 4-1-4-1 formation and Charlie Austin will come on for Bony

If we are losing, Charlie Austin will come on for Fellaini and we will play 4-4-2 on 80 Minutes

and Drawing, Austin for Bony and Stefan Johansen for Fellaini on 75 Minutes

Cech
Bellerin Evans Kompany Gibbs
Bender Yaya
Ronaldo Silva Di Maria
Aguero

Subs: Foster, Jones, Criscito, Coquelin, Ramsey, The Ox, El Sharawy

Subs:

70 Minute - Coquelin for Di Maria - play Bender and Coquelin as DMs, Yaya behind striker an Silva on the left wing.

70 Minute - El Sharawy for Silva

75th Minute - Ramsey for Yaya - I want Ramsey to control the tempo of the game more.

GAME PLAN

I want us to play a direct pressing game. This will entail moving the ball about quickly and getting it to our target player as soon as possible. I want us to use the wings as much as possible when on the attack. We must close down the opposition with immediate effect, pressuring them off the ball and forcing mistakes. The centre of the field will have players capable of winning the midfield battle by using their physique, skill and power to overrun the opposition. This game is all about limiting their options at the centre of the field and then releasing the ball to the creative players. We have slightly less pace on the pitch than usual but we will be able to use our winners to open up the opposition. They will be looking to move the ball forward as quick as possible so by using the skill of our players, we can take advantage of any space left.

Off the ball we need to force them into making mistakes. This means keeping the game tight and stopping the opposition any freedom on the ball. Push the opposition out wide and back towards their goal. I want them to be so pressured that every time they collect the ball there is someone on them. I want them to get frustrated and physical so we increase the chances of them having a player sent off.

I want us to play dirty in order to get the frustration out of them and open more space for our side to take advantage of. This means being a bit extra physical in our tackles. I also want us to look for a penalty when in the box by diving when possible. We need to get the goals so if the opportunity arises we need to take advantage of it.

If we are winning from the 70th minute I want us to start to keep the ball for longer periods and hold possession. Slow play right down and seriously time waste.

Positional Tactics

Our full backs defensively need to push the opposition back and reduce the space made available on this side of the pitch. They need to prevent the wingers from running in behind them and cutting inside of them. They need to cancel them out and limit the opportunities for them to make runs and collect the ball in good areas. Offensively they will need to move forward with the ball and use up and space left by the opposition. When our wingers cut in, I want our full backs to take up the wide position and put the crosses in.

Our centre backs need to keep with the strikers, stay in command of their play. We need to limit the opportunity for them to find space by keeping goal side of them at all times. They need to use their height and strength to beat them off the ball. They also must be aware of any high balls into the box and runners that have cut inside. Offensively only go up for corners.

We will play a defensive midfielder today who will protect the defence and hold up play. This means filling the gaps and creating a defensive wall to stop the opposition from breaking through. Bender must keep with the playmaker by discouraging him from moving into space, limit the chances he's able to create and keeping goal side of him at all times. Limit the available players for them, and force them to pass the ball back. Offsensively I will not allow Bender to go forward. Yaya has the freedom to move forward in order to create that extra option. He needs to control play more by creating and forming the attacks. He should look to move forward to be the new option.

Our attacking midfielder will be Silva who will look to run into space and finding the opportunity to change and dictate the game. He must force the opposition to open up space and allow the attacking players to break through. I want him to move about all across the centre and depending on move towards the right or the left to the ball. Defensively I want Yaya he must prevent people running forward and creating more ability for runs. He must try and collect the ball and release it to our wingers to form attacks since.

Our wingers need to use plenty of their skill, strength, power, pace and physicality to open up the opposition. I want them to force the attacks straight at them, bring the defenders out and then allow our attackers to take advantage. They must cut inside, run in from behind and cross the ball in so that our attacks don't end up predictable. Try and use our full backs as much as possible when attacking the opposition so that having to handle more than one player forces a mistake. Defensively they should fall back and help the full backs to defending and prevent the wingers from creating opportunities. Ronaldo should stay further forward as most players will look to leave the ball for him in the next attack.

Our striker needs to use their brain to workout how the defence works. They need to run at them using their strength and skill to cause nerves in their defence and force mistakes. The striker needs to open up space and find space as he is good at getting On the end of crosses and opportunities created. He needs to use his height to open the scoring and also use his power to force his way into goal scoring opportunities. Defensively I want him to move back to the centre circle and wait for the midfield to supply the ball to him in the event of an attack, if after 70 mins and we are winning I want the striker to move further back to control and protect the nation. We just time waste as much as possible.

Pens: Ronaldo
Long FK: silva
Short FK: Ronaldo
Corners: silva

-----------------Ospina

Rafael---De Vrij----Vertonghen---Enrique

--------Carvalho---Ramires

Shaqiri-----Thauvin-----------Tadic

--------------Huntelaar

Byram
Tomkins
Jorginho
Mirallas
Destro
Hazard
Hernanes


A tough game for us away at Wolves, but we think it's a game we can play for the three points in. With Woves unsettled at the prospect of rap leaving in the summer we will move to take advantage of this by springing some surprises with debuts and launching attacks with quick and skilful players.

We have sent out a team where every player has the ability of playing with the ball at their feet. We feel this will mean we can hold possession of the ball better, helping us lead attacks at the opposition's goal. Off the ball we have very strong players across the team, these players capable of playing a pressing game off the ball and of winning the ball back to start attacks.

Rafael and Enrique are both full backs who are very capable of hitting the opposition on the attack. When on the ball this will be their main duty, looking to support Shaqiri and Tadic in the overlap down the flanks. Both also have the energy to get up and down the touch line, meaning they can get back in position quickly, if possession is lost further up field. When the opposition are on the ball they must press them, forcing them out wide into a position that will nullify the threat posed by Wolves wider players. Seen as Wolves are likely to play with wing backs, it is especially important that Rafael and Enrique successfully double up with the wing players.

Vertonghen and De Vrij are both players who are capable of playing the ball out from the back, thus aiding our possession based game. They will work together as an outfit go prevent the Wolves attack from being effectual, Vertonghen will man-mark the opposing striker, strangling his involvement in the game and nullifying any physical threats he posed. As Veryonghen is capable both in the air and on the ground it is clear that he has an advantage over the opposition attacker. De Vrij must be aware of the opposing striker's whereabouts, but must also act as a sweeper for Vertonghen, mopping up any balls that find their way through, and monitoring the runs of Wolves' attacking midfielders. When we are on the ball they will stay back, not wanting to get caught out, playing a deep line, so as Wolves cannot try and hit us with pace.

We have led with two physical deeper central midfielders in Ramires and Carvalho. Whilst both are capable on the ball, they also offer strength in the backbone of our team and energy across the midifiled. Carvalho will use his presence to strangle the involvement of the opposition midfielders, not letting them have time on the ball to move forward, Ramires will aid him by picking up the attacking player who isn't on the ball at the time. This will help stop the connection between the two, and help us win the ball back from forced mistakes within their midfield. When we are on the ball, Ramires will be given license to push forward and support the attack, pushing past Thauvin and giving him an option for the through ball off Huntelaar. Carvalho will stay back, to make sure we are t caught in the break, sitting just in front of De Vrij and Vertonghen. Both will look to play quick, possession based passes, as we know that Wolves have players who will struggle to keep cool if they are struggling to win the ball back, as well as making their attacking tactics ineffectual.

Thauvin has a difficult role, as he must occupy the attention of Schneiderlin and De Jong. He will drop deeper to pick passes up from Carvalho and Ramires before sending quick through balls to Shaqiri and Tadic, as we hope to exploit the attacking nature of the opposition's full backs. He must be cautious as he will likely have De Jong pressing him, however he is quick enough and technical enough to be able to outwit the Dutch midfielder. When the opposition are on the ball he must pick up Schneiderlin and prevent him from attacking alongside the further advanced players, by being a nuisance and occupying his attention.

Shaqiri and Tadic are both energetic, two footed players with bags of pace. They will use this to find space behind the opposition wing backs, and pull the opposition back three apart. Their pace means they can exploit the opposition defence, running at them to create space for Huntelaar inside the penalty area. They also have numerous options available to them, which leads to them being able to mix it up against the centre backs. They can run to the by line, before pulling crosses into the penalty are for Huntelaar, Thauvin, Ramires and the other winger. They can run at goal themselves, before taking a shot or pulling it back to a player. This game makes them hard to mark and hard to deal with from an opposition perspective.

Huntelaar plays a key role in our attack. As a player very capable in the air, he must make a nuisance of himself in the penalty area, getting in good positions to get in the end of crosses, playing the ball off to the other attacking players or just in general occupying the attention of the opposition's defence to gain more space for our wingers. He is a clinical striker, capable of bagging us goals, leading our line and causing their defence problems.

SUBSTITUTES

If winning

Jorginho on for Thauvin 70 minutes

Fresh legs in midfield, plus Jorginho would drop back to play alongside Ramires and Carvalho, making attacking us even harder

If drawing/losing

Mirallas on for Tadic 65 minutes

Another quick player to exploit a tiring back four, Shaqiri would swap to the left hand side, with Mirallas on the right to attack their centre backs

Destro on for Thauvin 70 minutes

Fresh legs in attack, Destro would play off Huntelaar in the penalty area, seizing on chances and being clinical


Captain: Vertonghen
Free kicks: Shaqiri
Penalties: Shaqiri

----------------Courtois
Corchia---Garay---Terry----Luis
-------------------Verratti
--------Kondogbia---------Oscar
Origi--------------Costa----------Griezmann

Subs: Ryan, Nkoulou, Asamoah, Tielemans, Cuadrado, Firmino, Benteke

Captain: John Terry
Corners: Oscar
Free Kicks: Oscar
Penalties: Diego Costa

We will defend from the front, using our high energy work rate to close Leicester down in packs and leave them no room to break forward, forcing them to give the ball away either with loose passes or long balls to an isolated RVP. Costa, Origi and Griezzman press them immediately when the defenders have the ball, two pressing and one closing off the nearest wide option, not allowing time/space to pick their passes and making them rush the ball into the midfield area where we make it impossible to play through, and be first to every lose ball. Once the ball is played we want Griezzman and Origi dropping in and joining Oscar, Kondogbia, Corchia, Luis and Verratti in getting on top of the midfield, with both FBs comfortable squeezing infield to narrow the game, pressing them quickly, closing off all the spaces, hunting in packs and winning the ball quickly, whilst Costa presses the CMs from behind, if we can do this high up it will allow us to overpower them in midfield and limit the use of their wide men, as we can cut off the wide route quickly. If the ball is moved into wider areas then our midfield push across looking to keep things compact and surround leicester on the flank, with the FB also pushing up to shut off space, and the winger on that side coming across to help with the FB. If we can't win the ball we look to slow the down and regain our defensive shape so that Kondogbia drops to DM and with Verratti and Oscar go man to man on their midfield, with the wingers watching for the runs of the FBs but also mindful that they both concede a lot of space which we can use to break into when we win the ball. FBs stay tight to the CBs so there is no gaps, stepping out if he's needed. Terry and Garay will have the CF tightly marked, being very physical with him.

One man who can stop their attacking intent is Kondogbia, and we give him free reign over the midfield to use his power to snuff out any danger, knowing that he has the energetic Verratti/Oscar covering. Both FBs like to be on the front foot and they will be straight into the wingers when they receive the ball, not allowing the winger to settle the ball and take control of the situation, win it back high up the field. Whilst the FBs do this, Origi and Griezzman will spread to cover their FBs if the ball isn't won quickly by our FBs, this will slow down attacks and allow us to move into position to defend our third. When we defend high we want the midfield and FBs in the opposition half so we have them penned in with plenty of numbers to press, using the energy of Oscar, Verratti and co to force long balls into RVP, who will be isolated with the two CBs, or if they try to counter wide the FBs are straight into their wingers and Verratti/Kondogbia is ready to come across and snuff the danger out.

Today we want to be on the front foot, controlling the game, looking to attack when're we get the ball and looking to control possession for large spells of the game by using our power and energy to dominate midfield. When we attack we look to have lots of movement for the man on the ball. The FBs will push up and look to provide some width and with Oscar and Griezmann on the left side of the field most attacks will go through these two meaning Leicester will leave space on the right which we will exploit with Corchia and Origi, looking to switch it quickly and get at them down the flank and cross into the box, or for Origi to run in behind Moreno which is a weakness of the defender. Corchia/Luis look to keep things moving, finding the runs of team mates or putting a cross in. The midfield will dictate this game for us, with Kondogbia, Verratti, Oscar all excellent in position it allows us to work attacks with quick inter play and movement, with Verratti mainly moving round the midfield area looking to open the defence up with his passing from deep and Oscar moving to the flanks to help work openings or running into the channel to play off Costa, both knowing that they have Kondogbia in position to step in and win the ball quickly if it's lost, always on the front foot, that's why he's playing further ahead of Verratti, as well as him providing the powerful running to our midfield. Griezzman will be our flair man, looking to take players on but he will have free roam of the field, looking to drift left and get the ball from Luis, drawing Leicester out to the flank and opening room for Diego, Origi and Oscar to run into the channels, or himself after a one-two with Luis, or attacking from central, running at the defence or providing the runs for the midfield and Costa to pick out, getting round the sides of the CBs where he is a clinical finisher or providing the pass for the runs of Costa. Costa as always the focal point with his movement, stretching Leicesters defence wider and opening space for runs from Griezmann and being a handful for the CBs, fighting for everything and using his excellent movement in and around the box to make the goal scoring chance for himself. We look to really attack their wide areas, it's where they are most vulnerable, beating their FBs or getting between CB and FB as well as crosses into the middle where they are without Musacchio ad Casillas is no longer as commanding as he was.

Subs:

If Winning: Tielemans for Oscar 70', swaps roles with Verratti and provides extra power and calmness on the ball. We can keep possession in large spells. Asamoah and Cuadrado for Griezmann and Origi 80', extra work rate down the flanks to make sure we are always pressing them from the front.

If Drawing/Losing: Firmino and Benteke for Oscar and Origi 70', 4-4-2, extra presence upfront and the two pacey wide men to attack the FBs and make central runs. Asamoah for Luis 80', holds lots of width and really stretches the game.

Note: if we have made the two changes and we take the lead before the 80th minute, Asamoah will replace Costa and we will go to a 4-2-3-1 to be more solid and keep control of midfield:

Kondogbia Verratti
Griezmann Firmino Asamoah
Benteke

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

Attacking 4-2-3-1. Possession based attacking football with plenty of width. We expect a hard working Liverpool team with power, we want to beat them with total football. We feel we can control the game, they will close us down but we’re happy to keep the ball patiently and create gaps in their formation.

Inherently an attacking formation to take the game to our opponents, our main defence is controlling possession and not letting the opposition have possession to hurt us. Carrick and Ander have struck up a fantastic winning partnership at United, they have the ability to not only dictate the tempo of the game but to open up the opposition with their passing.

We aim to score as many goals as possible and outscore Liverpool. Patiently keeping posesesion to tire the opposition chasing the ball, and playing more direct in the final third. van Persie may not be the quickest, but he will perfectly suit our style of play, he has world class ability and capable of scoring whenever he picks up the ball around the opposition box.
Total football, we almost everyone to attack. And everyone to defend. Defending deep, no space in behind, and in numbers, not allowing Liverpool space making it difficult for them to get in good positions to cross. Crowd them out.

----------------- Caillas
der Wiel – R.Albiol – Manolas - Moreno
---------- Carrick – Ander.H
D.Suarez ---- C.Eriksen ------ Draxler
-------------- van Persie

Subs. Butland, Reid, Baba, Matuidi, Herrera, Cerci, Llorente


Fast flowing possession based football, playing out from the back. Three players in midfield that can dictate and dominate possession. Manipulating the opposition formation and creating space for our attacking four, we play direct to these pockets of space where possible, allowing us to attack quickly and immediately put the opposition on the back foot. Or continue to keep possession till these spaces do open up.

Fbs provide great width, bombing down the outside, this gives Suarez the freedom to drift inside, find space, helping us keep possession and open up Liverpool. Draxler and Moreno targeting their rb.

Carrick always provides cover in front of the defence, pressing the space and being in the right place at the right time to stop Pool’s attacks. One full back bombs forward at a time, the other stays just deeper than Carrick ensuring we have cover.


Defence

Again we look to control the opposition with a rigid defensive unit, allowing them to play in areas we want them to. As they progress forward we get almost everyone behind the ball, bar RVP. Leave no space, crowding them out. When we win the ball back, we have numbers back to keep possession and build attacks from the back.

As Pool advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1.

In this deep tight rigid formation, we focus on pressing space. Ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Carrick will be key here, sweeping in between the defence and midfield, reading any dangers to get across and stop Utd.

Ander and Eriksen, hold a central positions in front of the back 4, with the winger opposite to the play coming narrow and deep next to him providing a further wall in between those pressing and the back four. Narrowing the play to the side United are attacking, crowding them out and pushing them backwards and wide away from danger. When they switch play, we switch over.

Our fb’s up against their wide forwards are to drop off more and narrow the play so they can bide their time, waiting for the right time to make the tackle and not diving in. If he does manage to get past you, there’s a chance to stop the cross. Manolas picks up the more physical striker.

With no room to penetrate, Pool will look to force the play, long balls or long shots. They may have chances bullying their way, that’s fine, we aim to show them how to play and outscore them.

Attack

Win the ball, keep the ball. When we get to the final third, direct passing into space where possible. Quick interchangeable passing move. We have the perfect players for simple pass and move.

We have three players that can play game changing passes in the centre, plus Suarez, with the pace of Draxler and the fbs.

We will generally look to start attacks playing out from the back, with Carrick setting our tempo, keeping things simple when we need to calm and retain possession. 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.

Attacking movement in the final third is key. One fb bombs forward at a time. On the left wing, either the fb or the winger run inside, the other going down the line. On the right, Suarez will drift inside, find space. This ensures we have at least one dummy run, creating space and pulling defenders out of position. Suarez coming also adds greater fluidity to our space, and can allow us to pin Pool back.

van Persie has freedom to play his natural game, find space to get the ball, the attacking trio will be racing forward to join.

Subs. If drawing or winning after 70 mins bring on Matuidi for Eriksen. More power to overrun a tired Pool team that have been chasing us. Ander and Carrick controlling possession, Matuidi offering more options for them with his running helping us control the game.

If winning after 77 mins bring on H.Herrera for Suarez. Energy on the right.
If winning after 83 mins bring on Llorente for RVP. Hold up the ball and route one option.

If drawing after 77 mins bring on Llorente for RVP. Play more direct, we want more goals.
If drawing after 85 mins bring on Cerci for Suarez. Fresh ideas on right.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Suso for Draxler. Even more control of possession.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Matuidi for Albiol. Carrick cb. More control of possession from back, Matuidi offering power and options in possession with his running.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Llorente for der Wiel. 3-5-2.

Sorry just realised Cerci is injured, Ljajic to replace him in subs

Team:

--------------------- D.De Gea -------------
Piszczek --- G.Paulista -- Cahill -------- J.Bernat
-------------- Fernando --- I.Rakitic ------
A.Robben ---------------------------------- F.Ribery
------------- C. Tevez ---- H.Kane -----------------

Subs bench :
Caballero, Sagna, Marquinhos, Coentrao, Wilshere, Pastore, Jovetic
-----------------
Subs:
Wilshere > Rakitic - 70th minute - Wilshere look to get stuck in using his high work rate to ensure we retain possession.

Jovetic > Kane - 70th minute - Jovetic look to play off Tevez looking to make runs in behind and breaking off side trap.
----------------------
The outline:
A disappointing result last week but we must look to bounce back, I want us quick out the blocks today looking to hurt the opposition in the initial stages and then proceeding to dictate terms.
We have plenty of players throughout this side who have a great work ethic so we must look to close down with intense pressure, I want the front 2 setting the example not allowing their defence to play out from the back ensuring they must go long, Robben and Ribery must squeeze and force them inside whilst our cm’s man-mark and break up play as much as possible.

De Gea one of the best in the world at keeping the ball out through his agility and flexibility whether that be long-range, one on one or reaction saves.

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 whose boss. Gabriel and Cahill complement each other very well and must dominate from the outset with their exceptional quality coming to the fore. In midfield Fernando and I.Rakitic must maintain the pressure and look to disrupt the play.

Attacking wise there are plenty of goals in this side so we must look to play very direct looking to use our wingers and FB's as much as possible so the two forwards get plenty of service whilst at times lumping it forward route 1 style with runners in behind.
-----------------
Individual tactics:

De Gea has the ability to win games with his keeping. He has a real presence in and around his box so he must command well today, 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.
Gabriel and Cahill add additional layers to our defensive solidarity, Gabriel comes into the side and has all the required attributes needed to put in a defensive masterclass, an old fashioned cb who’s willing to get stuck in and seize the intuitive is just what we need . He’s responsible for marking their main striker today and should look to go toe to toe making it as difficult as possible to break the shackles and man marking him throughout the game. Cahill partners Gabriel and is entirely in his comfort zone. He’ll bring a calming persona to this defence and generally look to keep everything in check staying alert to any danger and covering Gabriels tracks through his more substantial pace and mobility.

Fernando adds force and bite to our midfield, He should look to flex his muscles and get snapping at heels. He must work tirelessly for the full 90 with his intensive pressing setting the perfect example to others as we work collectively to keep them out.
I.Rakitic partners and I want him to support Fernando as much as possible whilst playing in a more box to box role looking to run his socks off adding as much as possible to our play down both ends. Rakitic also adds so much creativity to the side so I want him dictating the tempo to our needs looking to make himself available at all times, getting our forward players in time and space and in short running the show.

Robben will act as the focal point, we generally want to get ball out to him as much as possible. I want him pulling the strings and dictating the play, v direct looking to use his drive to fly past challenges and opening up the game so others have the space and time when they receive the ball. Ribery has a similar role on the left, I want him taking on his FB as much as possible and mixing it up with deliveries, occasionally cutting inside to good measure with the support of Bernat in behind.

C.Tevez starts alongside Kane in attack today, 2 physically intimidating strikers who will work their socks off for the team and give their defence a right grilling. I want them linking up as much as possible and as one makes the run in behind the other must look to occupy their defence so they have the time and space to work a goal. Kane must look to use his head as much as possible looking to contest long balls and putting himself about as much as possible whilst Tevez is more technical looking to drop off looking to spin past his marker putting the big-short combo up top to as much effect as possible today.
---------------------------------------
Captain – C.Tevez
FK’s/corners – Rakitic
Pens - Kane

PORTSMOUTH v Swansea

Line up:

ter-Stegen
Soares Pepe Hummels Marcelo
Nainggolan De Rossi Modric
Coutinho Goetze
Lewandowski

Substitutes:
Lloris; Kongolo; Guarin; Goretzka; Tore; Anderson; Welbeck


Captain: Hummels
Penalties: Lewandowski
Corner Kicks: Coutinho
Free Kicks: Goetze


Tactics: Confidence is high in the Pompey dressing room coming off the back of a solid performance against a strong Liverpool side. With this in mind, we have decided to line up with the same formation and only one change to the side that has brought success in recent weeks: Soares coming in to replace the injured Carvajal.

The purpose of the 4-3-2-1 formation is to provide enough of a midfield presence to crowd out Swansea's attacks whilst providing enough space of our own for the counter.

We will be playing with one holding midfielder and two mobile central midfielders who will roam around the midfield area, closing off passing lanes and harassing the ball carrier. Our two attacking midfielders will also drop deep to cover space in the midfield whilst the centre forward will stay up top to instigate the counter attack.

he midfield revolves around De Rossi holding a fairly central role that gives Nainggolan and Modric the freedom to roam up and down the pitch and, if necessary, out to the flanks in order to cover against the Swansea wingers.

We know that Swansea are a solid side so we will be looking to move the ball up the field quickly where our pace can catch their defence on the back foot. We want to play the ball around so that their players start to push forward and come out of possession, whereby we will be able to exploit the space that they will leave.

Whereas in the last game we played an aggressive pressing formation, in this match we want to emulate the style that Arsenal used against Manchester City, setting up a solid 4-5-1 when not in possession. We will allow Swansea to move the ball around their back 4 with minimal pressing from Lewandowski as our aim will be to invite them in to our half where our superior numbers in midfield will allow us to crowd out playing space and to regain possession.

It is imperative that our team plays as a cohesive unit in defence and with a blistering aggression in attack and so we have gone with an unchanged lineup that will help with team cohesion. We have pace up front and a great deal of experience at the back that we feel should lead to a confident performance and victory.


Individual Tactics:

ter-Stegen: A fantastic shot stopper who will be looking to put in a superb performance in order to stake his claim for the 'keeper's spot.

Soares + Marcelo: In defence, they will be combative and will not let their man go down the flanks. They will prefer to push them in to the midfield where our other players can dispossess them. Offensively, they will look to hug the flanks and drill the ball in low and hard.

Pepe + Hummels: Pepe will go up for every ball with their centre forward, knowing that he is strong enough to dominate physically and aerially. Hummels will drop back and will be looking to pick up any runs off the centre forward's shoulder or any runs behind the full backs.

Nainggolan + Modric + De Rossi: Each midfielder will be expected to pull his weight equally in both attack and defence. With De Rossi holding the centre of the pitch, on the ball, this allows Nainggolan and Modric the freedom to charge forward and help in attack. When defending, they will be expected to push slightly wider to cut off passing lanes to Swansea's flanks.

In defence, De Rossi will be looking to negate the runs of Swansea's attacking midfielder while our other midfielders will look to cut out any passes in behind the defence or out wide.

Coutinho + Goetze: Given the opportunity to roam around the pitch, dragging players out of defence. They will always be on the lookout for that ball or run in behind the defence. In defence, Goetze and Coutinho will both drop in to the centre of midfield to help crowd out Swansea's midfield.

Lewandowski: When we're in possession, he will play off the last shoulder, looking to get in behind for the goal. In defence, he will close down the man with the ball every time. We don't want them playing out from the back.


Substitutions:

75 minutes: Welbeck for Lewandowski: Welbeck will provide a new burst of energy and pace to our front line.

80 minutes: Anderson for Coutinho: Anderson is more direct and a more accomplished goalscorer which we hope will give us the edge late on.

80 minutes: Guarin for Modric: Guarin will provide more stamina and a greater box to box role. He will be given encouragement to shoot from range.

EVERTON v Aston Villa
Line Up:

Kivrak
Arbeloa Skrtel Carrico Maxwell
Toulalan Montolivo
Choupo-Moting Kagawa Konoplyanka
Negredo

Bench: Schmeichel; Walker; Van Rhijn; Guerreiro; Castro; Mauri; Hernandez

Captain: Toulalan
Penalties: Negredo
Corners: Kagawa
Free Kicks: Kagawa

Game Plan:
The key to Everton's style is solidity through the middle with the majority of our attacking flair coming from the flanks. Villa have a very strong core to their team with some tricky wingers that can cause damage so we will be looking to counter that by playing an intelligent marking system. Our set up for this game is focussed on having as much possession of the ball as is possible whilst completely nullifying Villa’ attacking game.

In attack, Toulalan will drop just in front of the two centre backs and will look to control the game from deep, giving us three at the back; Arbeloa and Maxwell will push forward and overlap with Choupo-Moting and Konoplyanka so that they can drop inside. By setting up like this, we look to increase our efficiency in terms of space covered so that there will always be a spare man to pass to. We are looking to play a slow, methodical passing game with lots of free movement in to space so that we can keep Villa off the ball and tire them out chasing shadows all game. We will look to spread the ball around the pitch as much as possible to force holes in Villa’s defence and our players will consistently swap positions to keep the opposition guessing.

In the final third of the pitch, Kagawa, Konoplyanka and Choupo-Moting will look to exploit gaps between the full backs and centre backs and they will be looking to get behind the defence. Negredo will play off the last man and make a nuisance of himself in the box and our four midfielders will push high up the pitch to provide support, whilst still being wary of counter attacks.

Individual Tactics:

Kivrak: It is important for him to remain vocal at all times and to marshal the team from his vantage point. Keep spirits high and keep motivating the team.

Arbeloa and Maxwell: Both very strong going forward which will be pivotal to stretching Wolves' formation out. In defence, they need to be smart and stand up to their man, not letting Wolves' wingers get down the wing.

Skrtel and Carrico: Skrtel will fight for every ball in the air and Carrico will drop back, cleaning up any loose balls and being wary of runs in behind.

Toulalan and Montolivo: Toulalan will drop deep and protect the centre backs so that Montolivo can be more adventurous. Both are very good on the ball and, thus, will be pivotal in dictating the rythm of the game.

Kagawa, Konoplyanka and Choupo-Moting: All three are very direct attackers and are dangerous to every defence in the league on their day. They will be given free roles to move around the pitch and look for space in between and behind the Villa defence.

Negredo: Will run the length of the line, closing everything down. He will look to shift his body weight around and bully the Villa centre backs, challenging in the air and on the ground for every ball and generally making a nuisance of himself.

Substitutes:
70 minutes: Guerreiro for Choupo-Moting - Pacey and very direct. Guerreiro will provide us with a more traditional style of winger as well as the added bonus of better defensive work.

80 minutes: Hernandez for Kagawa - We move to a 4-4-2 formation with Hernandez playing off Negredo's shoulder and looking for the chance to poach a goal.

85 minutes: Mauri for Montolivo - Highly rated, this will be a small chance for Mauri to show his talents to the world so he will be sure to take the opportunity with both hands.

Balanced 4-2-3-1. Possession based attacking football with plenty of width.

Inherently an attacking formation to take the game to our opponents, our main defence is controlling possession and not letting the opposition have possession to hurt us. The defence comfortable on the ball, starting the attacks, Musacchio spreading the play out. Ander and Matuidi the link between the defence and attack.

Today we aim to play with width. Playing as wide as possible, stretching the play, creating space for our cms to dominate and as get to the final third, get the ball down the flanks, getting at the opposition fbs. And get the ball in to Llorente.

In the middle of the park, the midfield trio look to keep the ball on the deck passing in triangles, triangles that are directed out wide as gaps appear in the opposition formation, we look to shift the ball wider as we advance into the opposition half.


We aim to score as many goals as possible and outscore Pompey. Patiently keeping posesesion to tire the opposition chasing the ball, and playing more direct in the final third. Llorente will be able to hold up the ball, and provide someone for the midfielders to play off. Matuidi’s running will mean we always have an option, and will draw players away.

Total football, almost everyone to attack. And everyone to defend. Defending deep, no space in behind, and in numbers, not allowing Pompey space making it difficult for them to get in good positions to cross. Crowd them out. Narrow in defence to the side of play, wide in possession and attack.


---------------- Butland
Danilo – Musacchio – Manolas - Moreno
---------- Ander.H - Matuidi
A.Cerci ------ C.Eriksen ----- Draxler
-------------- F.Llorente

Subs. Albiol, Baba, Besic, Herrera, Suso, D.Suarez, Adriano


Fast flowing possession based football, playing out from the back. Manipulating the opposition formation and creating space for our attacking four, we play direct to these pockets of space where possible, Eriksen looking to get in positions he can interchange with the fb and wingers.

Fbs provide great width, bombing down the outside, this gives Eriksen the freedom to find space, helping us stretch the play, keeping possession and open up Pompey.

One of Matuidi/Ander always provides cover in front of the defence, pressing the space and being in the right place at the right time to stop Pompey attacks. One full back bombs forward at a time, the other stays in line with the deepest cm ensuring we have cover.


Defence

Again we look to control the opposition with a rigid defensive unit, allowing them to play in areas we want them to. As they progress forward we get almost everyone behind the ball, bar Llorente. Leave no space, crowding them out. When we win the ball back, we have numbers back to keep possession and build attacks from the back.

As Pompey advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1.

In this deep tight rigid formation, we focus on pressing space. Ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Matuidi will be key here, sweeping in between the defence and midfield, reading any dangers and using his power to get across and stop Pompey.

Ander and Eriksen, hold a central positions in front of the back 4, with the winger opposite to the play coming narrow and deep next to him providing a further wall in between those pressing and the back four. Narrowing the play to the side Pompey are attacking, crowding them out and pushing them backwards and wide away from danger. When they switch play, we switch over.

Our fb’s up against their wide forwards are to drop off more and narrow the play so they can bide their time, waiting for the right time to make the tackle and not diving in. If he does manage to get past you, there’s a chance to stop the cross. Manolas picks up the striker.

With no room to penetrate, Pompey will look to force the play, long balls or long shots.

Attack

Win the ball, keep the ball. When we get to the final third, direct passing into space where possible. Quick interchangeable passing move. We have the perfect players for simple pass and move. Work to wide areas, and get the ball in to Llorente. The physical presence of Llorente, will be perfect for Eriksen to play off, finding space to get goals.

We have three players that can play game changing passes in the centre.

We will generally look to start attacks playing out from the back, with Musacchio setting our tempo, keeping things simple when we need to calm and retain possession. 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.

Attacking movement in the final third is key. One fb bombs forward at a time. Either the fb or the winger run inside, the other going down the line. This ensures we have at least one dummy run, creating space and pulling defenders out of position.

Llorente has freedom to play his natural game, find space to get the ball, the attacking trio will be racing forward to join. And importantly, gives us the option for balls into the box.

Subs. If drawing or winning after 70 mins bring on Hector Herrera for Eriksen. More power to overrun a tired Pompey team that have been chasing us. Ander controlling possession, Hector offering more options for them with his running helping us control the game.

If winning after 75 mins bring on Suarez for Cerci.
If winning after 83 mins bring on Adriano for Llorente. Hold up the ball and route one option.

If drawing after 77 mins bring on Adriano for Llorente. Play more direct, we want more goals.
If drawing after 81 mins bring on Suarez for Cerci. Fresh ideas on right.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Suarez and Albiol for Danilo and Moreno. 3-6-1. Control midfield.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Suso for Matuidi. Gung ho.

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

Manchester City v MANCHESTER UNITED

Injuries: Rooney, Blackett, Khedira, Gaya

-------------------Buffon
Debuchy - Subotic - Howedes - Schmelzer
-----------Krychowiak - Perez
--------Ozil - Fabregas - Hazard
----------------Mandzukic

Subs: Mandanda, Sokratis, Caceres, Pirlo, Milner, Schurrle, Lukaku

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

Must win game today, we need to get a win to keep our title ambitions alive, City have some quality players but we have a front four to match anybody with a lot of emphasis on Hazard targetting City's RB area. Our front four with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances in general, and in midfield we have a pairing who can dictate the game while keeping the stability required to allow the front four to roam in Krychowiak and Perez. We can get at this City defence with our attack, Mandzukic playing up top with Fabregas in behind, and with Ozil and Hazard either side of Fabregas with licence to roam and swap positions, we should be able to cause significant problems and score a few goals. A lot of emphasis on Krychowiak and Perez giving us a solid platform as we are away from home, allow the front four and fullbacks to be our attackers.

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 Mandzukic.

Subotic/Howedes - Subotic to mark Kane, 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 Tevez 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.

Debuchy/Schmelzer - Both of you to force the City 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 Ozil/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 Fabregas and Mandzukic, also link with Fabregas when he drops deep. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Krychowiak/Perez - Krychowiak to patrol infront of the back four, if they play an AM stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls and in possession look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out. Perez the box to box man, assist Krychowiak and the CB's in dealing with the City attack when we don't have the ball, but in possession get forward, be the link between the defence and the attackers, use your ball playing ability to our advantage, link with Ozil and Hazard, and look to create chances for Fabregas and Mandzukic. Remain composed throughout.

Ozil/Hazard - Both playing out wide but in RAM and LAM positions, both of you have the pace and trickery to beat the City 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. Their DM will be tasked with keeping tabs on you, but with one of you either side of him one of you will be free to cause carnage in the middle of the park. 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. Look to supply Fabregas and Mandzukic with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Fabregas and Mandzukic, and capitalise on the space Mandzukic's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.

Fabregas/Mandzukic - you will be expected to occupy the City 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. Link together to create chances for each other. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Fabregas to drop to AM without the ball to make sure we're not exposed to any counter attacks.

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Perez and Ozil off, Pirlo and Schurrle on. Switch to 4-5-1 with Pirlo, Krychowiak and Fabregas in midfield, Schurrle to RW with Hazard at LW and Mandzukic upfront, Schurrle and Hazard drop deeper out wide to make it 4-5-1. Absorb pressure and hit on the break.

If drawing: Perez off, Pirlo on. Same system, Pirlo a playmaker to come in and give us something different, push for the winner without overcommitting.

If losing: Schmelzer, Perez and Krychowiak off, Schurrle, Lukaku and Pirlo on. Switch to 3-1-4-2, back three of Debuchy - Subotic - Howedes, Pirlo the DM, Schurrle - Fabregas - Ozil - Hazard behind a front two of Mandzukic and Lukaku upfront. Push for goals.

Birmingham City vs Swansea

Injuries:
Andros Townsend
Marek Hamsik
Edinson Cavani
Jerome Boateng


………………………………..Hart………………………………..
Srna……………..Boateng…………Dante…………Davies
……………Schweiny……………Martinez……………………
Salah…………………………Menez……………………….Lavezzi
…………………………………Martinez………………………………..


Subs: Ortola, Luiz, Clasie, Navas, Lampard, Defoe, Richards


Injuries have nobbled us badly this week (getting excuses in early) so it’s change of system for our home game against the Swans.
Possession based football today as we look to keep hold of the ball pulling them out of position before hitting them swiftly with pace out wide,
Not normally a big fan of one up top but as Jackson is a one man wrecking machine he’s more than capable of leading the line and terrorising the Swans defence

Goalie
Hart has his detractors but he’s a very good shot stopper and will keep a strict line with his defence, won’t come charging for crosses as our centre backs will be expected to deal with them, but will be a sweeper keeper for any loose through balls or flick ons

The Defence
Pretty standard back four – 2 no nonsense centre-halves who will keep it simple, clear the lines if it’s clear the man too then so be it no man marking today strictly zonal…Dante is first knock defender where as Boateng will take the secondary ball if needs be…..Srna and Davies will be given free licence to attack as Schweiny and Martinez will be sitting, they’ll add extra width to our attack as we look to stretch the pitch as wide as physically possible, Defensively will show the man the line forcing the cross as our CB’s are big enough to deal with them comfortably….All four men will be asked not to dive in, that said the snidey little break-up play fouls are encouraged.

Schweiny/Martinez – Properly solid midfield pairing, pace,power and experience will both be box to box players but one sits one goes (allowing our FB’s to bomb on and effectively give us 3 CB’s) both are decent on the ball and will keep it nice and simple passing amongst themselves and Menez in a tri-angle or going wide for our wingers to latch onto, Defensively will play their usual high pressing full on game closing down the spaces and forcing Swansea into rushed passes and errors, setting up the sucker-punch counter attack
Menez – The #10, given free licence to drop off and help out Schweiny/Martinez, drifting wide allowing the wingers to come inside or running on past Martinez benefitting from his size and strength pulling defenders towards him, 16 goals in a píss poor Milan team is a fantastic return and this fast as, box of tricks is a fantastic addition to our squad

Salah/Lavezzi – Two very different wingers but both add plenty to our side, Lavezzi is a Scugnizzo http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=scugnizzo
And will drift inside allowing Davies the overlap, attacking the space between full back and centre back, making their defence make a judgement call as to whom is meant to be marking him

Salah on the other hand is blistering pace will look to skin his man before cutting inside either laying off Jackson or going himself, as he comes in Srna runs the lap, so in theory Salah,Jackson and Lavezzi should all be attacking the middle plus Menez running late to meet crosses as well

Jackson – Big strong and bags of pace, the perfect lone man up top, quick feet too so comfy playing with his back to goal, will hold it up and bring others into play before charging into the box attacking the crosses that will follow

Subs:
65 mins regardless

Navas > Lavezzi

Salah goes LW, Navas goes RW…fresh legs and unstoppable pace on both wings as we look to take advantage of tiring legs, as Menez,Salah and Navas in a trident of AM’s at full flow is a joy to behold

dropped the proverbial

Boateng is injured so please use David Luiz
Ogbonna takes Luiz's place on't bench

no worries tino

Hull tactics vs Everton

-------------------------------Patricio--------------------------------

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

-----------------------------Cabaye----------------------------------

------------------Pereyra----------Moutinho---------------------------

Lucas Moura----------------------------------------------Reus

-----------------------------Vietto------------------------------------



Game Plan: another big game up against Everton today, so we're ready and looking To continue our recent run of wins, we'll set up in our usual 4-3-3 system, we'll look to dominate possession from the off, every man from 1-11 is very comfortable in possession. By keeping as much possession as possible we'll look to be patient and create space by moving the ball from side to side with a quick tempo, with Everton expected to play a similar system to us it should give us plenty of opportunity to dominate the midfield and then take advantage in the wide areas with the pace and movement of our front 3, if however they set up in a natural 4-2-3-1 or a 3-4-3 formations that have been used in the past then we can adapt, 4-2-3-1 would give us more opportunity to dominate the midfield centrally and 3-5-2 would make it easier to be effective in the wide areas.

Defensively we will look to push high up the pitch, all of our defenders are lightning quick so are able to do this without fear of Everton being able to spring us on the counter attack. The reason for the high line is to condense the space while out of possession for the Opposition attackers denying them the space to get on the ball and turn at our defence will be crucial in winning this game, the idea is to keep their quality attacking players as far away from our goal as possible. The gap between the defence and the forwards should be very tight, we don't necessarily need to go chasing the ball from their CB's but when the wing backs and midfielders of Everton receive the ball, the nearest player (whether that be a midfielder, striker or defender) should be sprinting out to him to put him under pressure, when a player leaves his position, the next man must always be aware to cover the space he leaves, it's a very fluid system that requires a lot of hard work and concentration but we're good enough to do it, we want to force Everton to either have to pass backwards or force a mistake from the man in possession.

As spoken of previously in the tactics, we will look to be in possession a damn site more than we are out of it, we will move the ball with tempo and pace between the midfielders and forwards, however we must not be afraid to play the ball backwards in order to keep the ball if a forward pass is not on, the idea behind keeping possession for so long is to draw defenders out of position and exploit the gaps that they leave, it's very difficult to concentrate as a defender of you're under pressure for a long time, mistakes will happen.

Our 3 forwards Lucas, Reus and Luciano Vietto again are all comfortable receiving the ball to feet and linking play effectively, their movement and pace will be key in dragging defenders out of position and then exploiting that space in order to create chances, this front 3 will always create chances with the quality of our midfield supplying them, they just have to take them, and they have all proven capable of that in their careers

If winning after 70 minutes, Bentaleb for Lucas Moura, switch to 4-1-4-1 Bentaleb and Moutinho in CM, Reus left, Pereyra right but less attacking and more disciplined


Captain: Moutinho
Corners: Moutinho
Free Kicks: Reus
Penalties: Reus

Comment deleted by Article Creator

-----------------------Lloris----------------------
D.Alves-----Bonucci-----Chiellini-----Ricardo
----------------Vidal-------Pogba---------------
Sanchez------------Barkley------------Neymar
---------------------Aguero---------------------

Mvogo, Laporte, Blind, Coutinho, Witsel, Morata, Aubamayang


We have made a couple of changes but for the better, Aguero and Chiellini are no strangers to Chelsea sp hopefully slot right back in, we ain to play quick flowing football and play round the Liverpool bullies and dont give them the time or space to hurt us.

In goal Lloris, a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, leads by example from the back, shouting instructions to hos defenders. Out quickly to shut down strikers and close there shooting angles down. Punches clear what he cant catch from high balls and likes to release early to set up quick counters.

Chiellini comes in to replace Varane and alongside Bonucci they will be a solid pairing at CB, on this occassion Bonucci will man mark the CF quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, will keep the CF away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Chiellini alongside not only brings experience but also he is fantastic v big men and in the air, so if Costa starts he will switch roles with Bonucci, otherwise he will mark men that come up for corners ie terry, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger, will help out Bonucci if needed.

Ricardo and D.Alves at fullback, when we attack one goes at a time the other sits back. When they attack I want them bombing down the wing over lapping the winger to allow them to cut inside, quick passing between the two to get them passed the opposition fullback, which will see the fullback drive towards the bye line to get a quick cross in. If its not a cross then look for the winger inside to play a quick pass back to them so they can drive into the box. Defending both will have to be vigilant and always mindful of the tricks the opposite winger can do. Be onto them quickly not allowing them the time to get going, push them out wide and stop them becoming a threat.

We go with Vidal and Pogba in the centre of midfield, two absolute workhorses, with fantastic defensive attributes as well as being good on the attack, when we defend they will work together to shut there midfield down the AM and second most advanced CM , they will close down everything very quickly and not allow there players any time on the ball whatsoever, once the ball is won, then Pogba or Vidal will drive on into support Barkley and Aguero, the other will stay back just in case Both good on the ball with a great eye for goal, can shoot from a variety of angles. look out for Neymar and Sanchez coming inside and put some nice crisp through balls into them and James and Aguero. Quick passing from the two as to not be shut down by the Liverpool midfielders.

Sanchez and Neymar are chosen on the wings as Sanchez has tremendous work rate and will help out Alves when and if needed. Both quick with nimble feet which more often than not takes them passed the fullback, wether they knock it passed them and drive on or simple a quick turn, and there away. Will have fullbacks supporting them so this allows them to pass and cut inside where both are very useful. Give and go, wait for the return and go for goal, or look to drive into the box in support of Aguero. Neymar focusses more on the tricks and twists to see him passed, whereas Sanchez likes to make the pass that gives him time to look for space for him to drive into and wait for the return. Both very dangerous and with support from there respective fullbacks we will be a danger out wide. When defending look to get back and stop there defenders becoming a threat. Like said they support the defenders when they have the ball and the defenders support them when we attack.

Ross Barkley is given a free role today to try and break them down, he will drift all over as to make it difficult for his marker to pick him up, as he drifts this will leave holes in the Liverpool midfield for us to take advantage of. He will switch with either Winger at times as he looks to get himself into dnagerous positons. If he drives centrally he and Aguero will cause a lot of problems, he will pass to the CF and look to move into fantastic positions for Aguero to get him in in on goal, when we defend I want him to run down the DM looking to keep him off the ball and foerce him into mistakes.

Aguero will get plenty chances, he must put away this Liverpool side who will be solid at the back. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. They are slow at the back so our forwards must hit them with pace. Good is surprisingly good in the air and two good feet, can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front four will be a threat today we must go for it and keep pace with the league leaders. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Neymar, Barkley and Sanchez running into support.

A very difficult game but we have a good side defensively and going forward, quick passing, one twos and drive into positions to recieve a return ball, we really must go fr it, at the same time nothing risky.

Captain - Vidal
Free Kicks - Aguero
Penalties - Neymar
Corners - Wingers

Subs:-
Losing

70 Mins - Coutinho for Barkley, straight swap hit them with pace
80 Mins - Aubamayang for Aguero again fresh legs great eye for goal
85 Mins - Morata for Alves go 3 at the back, Coutinho Left, Sanchez right and Neymar up top 343

Drawing -
70 Mins - Coutinho for Barkley
80 Mins - Aubamayang for Aguero

Winning -
80 Mins - Witsel for Barkley, sit back a bit
85 Mins - Morata for Aguero
----------------------------------------------------------------------

What happened to the whole not being able to redo tactics just because you've signed a new player rule...or does that go out the window when you can delete your own comment

You haven't done yours guess no problem been done before

Was only gks and a sub