Ander Herrera
Sergio Busquets
Abou Diaby
Joe Hart
--------------------Foster
Lahm----Kompany----Boateng----Gibbs
-------------------Blind---------------------
----------Ramsey-----YayaToure---------
Reus-------------------------------Ronaldo
------------------Aguero--------------------

Subs:
Aymeric Laporte
Alexsander Kolarov
David Silva
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain
Lukas Podolski
Jackson Martinez
James Milner

Very bad start to the season, it’s time to get our first win on the board today. We line up in a 4-3-3 with Blind protecting the back four, Ramsey box to box and Yaya as the most advanced midfielder. We also look to use the full length of the pitch therefore Reus and Ronaldo will play as wingers and will also be provided support from the full backs. When defending we will be disciplined, at times having everybody behind the ball and then wait for the opportunity to use our pace and power on a counter attack. We will not be afraid to play it out from the back, everybody is comfortable on the ball.

When we don’t have the ball, I want my players to rush the opposition and press them. We have the legs in midfield this year with the inclusions of reus, ramsey. Ramsey has a great engine and will not stop rushing opponents into mistakes. Yaya will use his mere presence to his advantage.

Lahm and Gibbs two natural full backs. I want them upon and down the pitch providing options for our attack. Also I want them to defend responsibly and not risk being caught out. They mark man for man and force the opposition inwards into a packed midfield.

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

Blind will be the anchor man, picking up the furthest midfielder of the opposition but he also has an amazing left foot at his disposal. He will pick his head up when he has the ball and look for quick passes to the wing or to whoever is in space. We need to be clinical today. Also when Gibbs is out of position he will drift towards left back whilst Ramsey/Yaya go deeper.

Ramsey and Yaya will play their normal game. Ramsey will be the deepest out of the two and looks to make late surges into the box getting at the end of balls. I’ve already explained how he will defend. Ramsey will also look to feed off Aguero.
Yaya has the biggest licence out of the two. His presence provides a massive advantage. He will look to carry the ball forward taking opposition players out of the game.

Up front is Aguero, he should always look to make runs in behind and hold his own when possible holding the ball up and getting others involved whilst occasionally coming deeper to dictate the player whilst they go on beyond. Will usually play off the last man, dragging the opposition defence as deep as possible creating space for us to play. Also looks to chase down opposition defenders when they have the ball.

Subs:
If drawing/losing 65:
Ramsey > Silva
Gibbs > Kolarov – more attacking LB

Reus-Silva-Ronaldo
Aguero

75:
Apply above
Blind> OX

Plays deeper

If winning 65:

Aguero > Milner. Milner LW. Adds more protection and balance

75:
Apply above
Reus > Kolarov
Milner rw, kolarov lw

80:
Apply above
Ronaldo > Jackson Martinez

Swansea Vs Manchester United.

Today our formation has been adapted slightly to a 4-4-1-1. Big away day in Wales against a Swansea team that have started strongly, this is a must win game for us though if we want to have any joy in getting the top 4 this season.

The changes we’ve made to the side reflect the fact we want to get the ball down the flanks, and attack Swansea in the wide areas in particular. Swansea have a strong dm pairing, and we feel an AM may not get great joy here, for this reason we have opted for a more advanced second striker role, and two direct natural wide players who will offer the cover required in wide midfield roles.

This will allow us to really take the game to Swansea while keeping the defensive cover required for an away game.

We look to use pace and width to get on top of this match.

-------------- R.Zieler
D.Alves – Pepe – Vertonghen – Filipe
------ S.Khedira– C.Fabregas
J.Navas -------------------- X.Shaqiri
---------- C.Tevez
--------------- M.Balotelli

Subs. Oblak, Smalling, Vilhena, Rakitic, Cazorla, Robben, Dzeko

Attacking 4-4-1-1. Playing with plenty of width. Get the ball down the flanks and attack the Swansea fbs. Stretch their side, and get Cesc and Sami controlling the game from the middle of the park spreading the ball to the wide positions where we can hurt Swansea.

Rather than playing a pressing game high up the pitch, we will look to stand off more, get numbers back into defensive positions and press as soon as the opposition enter our half. By getting back in numbers we believe it will be difficult for Swansea players to find space, and that it will be extremely difficult to break us down and create clear cut chances. We feel they will lack the numbers/cutting edge to break us down.

The formation is rigid in defence, fluid in attack. Navas and Shaqiri keep the width, Tevez and Mario have freedom in attack. Tevez playing in the number 10 role, is playing more advanced than a natural attacking midfielder, getting between their midfield and defence, helping us to build attacks before getting in to the advanced areas. This means if a Swansea cb picks him up, Mario is 1v1 on the other cb. Or that a dm drops deeper to try and pick him up, allowing us to push Swansea deep and control the midfield.

We will be direct and attack with pace. Cesc is the playmaker, in the cm role. Next to Sami we believe we will be able to control the game from this area. The defence are comfortable on the ball and will keep things simple.

Our wingers and two forwards will really stretch the opposition with their movement, this should open up the opposition and allow Cesc and Sami to control the game for us.

Defence.

Control the space. When they do have possession, ensure it’s in areas that can’t hurt us.

The first point of defence is Tevez, when the opposition dms get the ball he looks to close them down in the opposition half. Behind him will be two solid banks of four. We allow the opposition defence time on the ball in their own half.

We are placing importance on getting our midfield back behind the ball. Sami drops slightly deeper than the other three midfielders, he will ensure there is no am in between the defence and midfield. Khedira drops in between defence and midfield, sweeping in between the lines. His energy and reading will be best utilised in this position to ensure that there is no one in his zone unmarked.

Cesc in front offers energy to support in the central zone, ready to pick up and cms coming forward. While Tevez marks and closes down the deepest dm.

The winger on the opposite flank comes in narrow, ensuring there is no space in the centre supporting Cesc. Our shape will resemble a 4-5-1 when the opposition have possession in our half. Mario the lone forward.

We always want at least one more defender than Swansea has attacker. I.e two then only one full backs get forward at a time or if only one, both fbs. Khedira will be the deepest of our midfielders in possession, offering the pass backwards, and importantly guarding against counter attacks.

Our fb’s up against their quick wide forwards, in particular if Salah is playing, are to drop off more so they can bide their time, waiting for the right time to make the tackle and not diving in. Show him down the line to block the cross. If he does manage to get past you, there’s a chance to stop the cross.

Attack

We look to keep our passing simple in our own third. Playing short and on the deck where possible. If we go long, we look to find our wingers, using their pace to get in behind.

Primarily we want to get the ball down the wings. Cesc will look to spread the play and find our attacking players in dangerous positions.

Generally be direct going forward, in the opposition half we will always looking to go forward and stretch the opposition where possible.

The linkup play of fbs and wgs will be a real threat, as we have one who likes to go inside, and one who likes to keep the width on each side. Navas keeps the width on the right, allowing the tireless Alves to run inside him and beyond.

On the other wing, Shaqiri will have freedom in the final third to drift to central areas, as it will be Filipe that is going beyond and keeping the width.

Cesc will orchestrate our play. We want him to be everywhere today, and get involved with everything. Khedira offers drive in the more defensive dm role, he will help to drive us forward out of defence, and stay deep at all times in attack but for the very rare occasion where he can burst forward and Cesc will cover.

Tevez and Mario up top will look to play their natural game. Tevez we want to look for the ball in deeper areas, getting involved and looking to create.
Mario we want to mix his play, look to get at the opposition defenders however possible looking for a weakness. In deeper areas we want him to drift wide, dragging defenders wide so that he or Tevez has the opportunity to get the ball back in a central area through on goal.

Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Robben for Tevez. Playing in the second striker role, his pace and ability to run at defenders will be a huge threat as the game opens up.

If winning after 75 mins bring on Schneiderlin for Shaqiri. Moving to a 4-2-3-1, with Morgan and Sami in dm and cm. Cesc am Robben and Navas wgs with Mario up top.

If winning after 80 mins bring on Dzeko for Balotelli. Fresh strength against tired legs, looking to get the ball and link up with the two wgs. Offering a great outlet to hold up the ball and bring others into play.

If drawing after 65 mins bring on Robben for Shaqiri. More attacking.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Dzeko for D.Alves and Smalling for Filipe. 3-5-2.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Robben for Shaqiri.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Smalling for Alves and Cazorla for Filipe. 3-5-2. Cazorla CAM.

Liverpool vs HULL CITY

------------------------------Scuffet----------------------------------

Srna-------------Benatia--------Musacchio---------Alex Sandro

Walcott--------------Cabaye----Witsel--------Lucas Moura

----------------------------James----------------------------------

----------------------------Rodrigo---------------------------------

subs: Forster, Miranda, Marchisio, Markovic, Berardi, Rossi, Quintero

Game Plan: We're switching things up this week with a big tactical change, moving away from our high line and fast pressing game and moving more towards a counter attacking philosophy utilising our immense pace out wide and up front. Speed of thought, speed of movement, speed of passing. Very little is as important as speed to counter attack; we have to catch the opponents backpedaling and undermanned and imperative to this is a fast tempo, we have the ability and pace in the side to go from our own area to the opposition area in 3 or 4 passes and just a few seconds.

Scuffet: very intelligent young goalkeeper, will command his area, very good under the high ball and from crosses, when he has the ball will look to release the ball quickly into wide areas to begin counter attacks, Schmeichel Style

Defence: The importance of the defence in a counter attack is two-fold: first, they must be strong and able to withstand a great deal of pressure, Benatia and Musacchio are both very quick and very good in the air and possess great concentration levels as they must be forever vigilent of runners from midfield and out wide into the channels, Srna and Alex Sandro also possess great pace and tenacity in the challenge as well as excellent positional sense, they will look to stop crosses in the wide areas and must also watch the runs of the wide players if they look to make a move inside. The entire back 4 must be in constant communication with each other. Secondly the defence must be able to start attacks from deep, and Benatia and Musacchio are both very accomplished with the ball at their feet and have a great passing range, while Srna and Alex Sandro both possess the pace to transition quickly into attack and support the wingers on the overlap.

Midfield: The midfield is the link between defence and attack, as ever, but their role is even more important in a counter attack. Our 2 defensive midfielders Cabaye and Witsel give us extra solidity in front of the defence, as ever, but they also serve a higher purpose in that they will force Liverpool's wingers to go wide by denying them space to cut into. Since we have big, aerial defenders, this is exactly what we want as we can trust our defenders to win the ball and use their ball skills to play it out nicely. Both Cabaye and Witsel while defensively very disciplined and strong are also very accomplished ball players and are able to start attacks from deep, they will look to use the ball quickly and effectively, they have 4 very quick and intelligent runners ahead of them.

Attack: The most important thing about the four forward most players is that they have the speed and movement to make each attack count, and this is certainly the case with Lucas, Walcott, Rodrigo and James. Rodrigo Moreno is a very intelligent player, who will have litte to no defensive responsibilty in open play, instead he will have to be aware of when the ball is turned over and then use his movement and pace to create space and cause havoc amongst the defence of Liverpool on the counter attack. James Rodriguez as the attacking midfielder will also not have a great deal of defensive resonsibility, he is a player oozes flair, composure, decision making, creativity, passing, technique, pace and dribbling, he will use all of these attributes to create chances either for himself or the other forwards, the pace and movement of Rodrigo will open up through ball opportunities for James and he has the skill to execute these chances. Lucas and Walcott will have defensive resposibilty, they must look to drop back and help in wide areas and look to pick up clearances from our own box, they have the pace and energy to then get up the field quickly and transition into attack, they have very intelligent movement and can move inside or stay wide and look to stay on the defence's blind side.

Subs: Marchisio for Cabaye 70 minutes, straight swap.

if losing after 70 minutes: Berardi for Lucas, very direct forward who will look to make goalscoring runs from wide and a very accomplished finisher who is also excellent in the air.

if winning/drawing after 80 minutes: Nigel De Jong for James Rodriguez, NDJ to play as a holding player, very disciplined player who will snuff out any opportunites that Liverpool look to create, we will also look to go more direct and risk free in our attacking player, long balls into the channels for Rodrigo to chase, look to play down time as much as possible.

Captain: Mehdi Benatia
Freekicks: Yohan Cabaye
Pens: James Rodriguez
Corners: Yohan Cabaye

—————————--——Courtois
Corchia—-—-Howedes——————Terry———Azpilicueta
————————Matic--—————Matuidi
—Raul Garcia———————————————Turan
——————————Griezzman
—————————————Cavani

Subs: Ryan, Moreno, Reyes, Sneijder, Bakkali, Bony, Rooney

Captain: John Terry
Free Kicks: Edinson Cavani/Antoine Griezzman
Penalties: Edinson Cavani
Corners: Antoine Griezzman/Arda Turan

We will play a more compact counter attacking game today as we look to control the game off the ball, keeping things tight and allowing no spaces for Hull to use their pace, look to force them wide. We will set the defensive line deep and look to break with immense pace, using our power in the midfield to win the midfield battle and use that as a launchpad for our success.

http://sharemytactics.com/21436/

If they move it wide it allows us to set our team up to defend the wide areas in numbers, squeezing the space by using our AM and FB to press the men on the ball in the wide areas and then bringing across the forwards and CMs to close off areas and setting up so that if Hulls man on the ball gets beyond his marker he immediately has another player blocking his route. Such high energy and organisation should limit Hull to wide areas where we can control their attacks and position ourselves to deal with the danger. As Corchia pushes out, Matuidi is ready to use his energy to cover the gap between CB and FB, leaving no areas to exploit.

http://sharemytactics.com/21431/

When attacking centrally the two banks of four must be tight to each other, don’t leave any space between the lines. Whilst the two attacking midfield players are able to stay tight to their CMs when needed to fill the midfield, or they stretch wide when the FBs become active in play, getting to them to close them down quickly, giving the time to position themselves to defend the wings. The back four acts in much the same way, tight to each other to leave no gaps, only the FBs pushing out when needed to defend the flanks and stop crossing opportunities, again being quick to get out if the ball is moved to the wide areas. We make sure there is no gaps to be exploited, defend our penalty area and make Hull have to work hard under extreme pressure, with the forwards dropped back also to stop the CMs being able to control the tempo of things, if they get beyond our forwards they have two monstrous CMs in their face.

When we break forward we do so in numbers, so if the ball is lost we look to work hard higher up the field and allow for some spells of more sustained possession, giving our deeper players a break. We do this by pressing in 4’s once again, first the front four, closing the CBs and CMs down at high speed and looking to force them into tight positions where we can step in and win the ball and behind them the FBs and CMs, ready to step in and break up play, first to every lose ball forward and quick into any attacking player that Hull get the ball to. From here keep the ball and wait for chances to come.

On the ball we use our pace and power to effect. Get the ball into the final third as quickly as possible by building the attacks in the area of the field we have won the ball as we have numbers there meaning we can transition to attack quickly. We get numbers forward, the FBs pushing up to provide width, allowing us to double up out wide or act as a foil for our wide players moving infield to overload key attacking areas. Look to hit them directly by getting the ball forward into the areas of the field where there is space, using that space to draw players out and then providing good movement to exploit the space that opens up next, with the effect that we finish our attacks central, either with a cross from the byline or a wide attacker moving infield to link up with the forwards. We have all sort of movement possible, with Cavani running off the shoulder or coming deep and getting Griezzman in behind or Garcia moving central from wide and Griezzman using his pace to move into the gap created. If we win the ball deep, we look to get the ball wide and use our pace, or into the forwards who will be supported quickly by the midfield, one such ploy will be to attack their right side, when Srna attacks, we want Griezzman ready to run into the space and counter with he and Turan overloading that side. If pace fails we switch it up and use the power of Matic and Matuidi to move us forward, whilst we can use Garcia’s strength to bully them, either giving the FB long diagonals to deal with, or getting him up against the CBs, switching positions with Griezzman and allowing our attacking players to play around Garcia.

Individual:

Courtois commands his area, collecting crosses and distributing quickly.

Fbs dont dive in, stand up to wingers, keep compact with the CBs, with Azpi selected on the left for that reason. Only move out when defending wide areas.

CBs are both big and powerful to bully Rodrigo, Terry man marking, fighting him in the air and on the ground, Howedes there to mop up and stop any runs from midfield. Distribute long when needed.

Matic and Matuidi keeping the ball moving, breaking up attacks, bully James out of the game and help us drive forward, with Matuidi able to provide runs behind the defence.

Turan provides pace, Garcia power. We want Turan looking to work the tight spaces with his trickery and intelligent passing, whilst Garcia can be used as a more direct option, giving the defenders something else to deal with either in wide or central areas.

Griezzman always looking to move about and use his pace and trickery to get at the CMs and open the game up for us.

Cavani the focal point, using his strength and movement to bully the CBs.

Subs:

If Winning: Rooney for Cavani 70’, fresh energy upfront. Moreno for Turan 80’, fresh legs out wide to help keep us comfortable on the ball. Reyes for GRiezzman 85’, late on adds a third CB so that any extra forward player is dealt with man for man, don’t be fooled by movement around the box. Most importantly don’t let them heap pressure on, stay calm, keep the ball, get it forward and exploit gaps that they leave.

If Drawing: If Garcia is causing them trouble with higher balls then we will put him central and move Griezzman wide, Bony comes on for Cavani 70’. This gives us two massive physical presences upfront that we can use to back into the CBs, get the ball forward and cause trouble with players moving around them. Rooney and Sneijder for Turan and Matuidi 75’, if Hull are proving difficult to break down those two give us greater creativity, they have great movement and can pick a pass. Rooney go up with Bony, Griezzman goes left, Garcia back right but only when defending, when attacking we want him running central and using his strength up against the CBs with Bony, allowing Rooney and co to work off him.

If Losing: Rooney and Sneijder replace Corchia and Matuidi 65’. We can have a bit more a fluid midfield, with Matic holding and Garcia and Sneijder doing the attacking, Rooney and Cavani upfront and two fast wingers. Again if Garcia is causing problems he stays upfront, Rooney plays a bit deeper and we use our strengths. Bakkali for Turan 75’, Bakkali comes on and we get him running at Srna as much as possible, take him on and get crosses in. We keep it compact when defending.

EVERTON v Arsenal

Injuries: Steve Mandanda, Carl Jenkinson, Jose Rodriguez, Borja Valero
Ineligible: Bernard

------------------Stockdale-----------------
Manquillo---Astori---Veltman---Criscito
--------------Clasie---Carvalho-------------
---------------------Song-------------------
Thauvin----------------------------Mirallas
-------------------Llorente-----------------

Subs: Richards, Distin, Umtiti, Rodwell, Alvarez, Ayew, Doumbia

Decent result last week against Southampton but a real test this week. Arsenal have world class attackers and we need to cut our cloth accordingly. Playing a 4-3-3/4-5-1 with two DM's to have a stronghold in midfield, absorb the pressure from Arsenal then when we win back possession counter attack, and Mirallas and Thauvin will support Llorente as we try to get at their back four. Back four to play deep, avoid Arsenal being able to utilise space in behind by significantly reducing the space in behind! The two DM's to play about 5-10 yards in front to prevent Arsenal from having any freedom in our third of the pitch, and to frustrate them. In possession only the front three and Song have licence to get forward, make sure we capitalise on their over-commitment and punish them. Be ruthless and clinical with any chances we create. Stick to the gameplan even if we concede a goal.

Stockdale - 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.

Veltman/Astori - Astori to mark Aguero, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Veltman to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and prevent any runners 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.

Manquillo/Criscito - I want you both to stay with the Arsenal wingers. Ronaldo and Reus love cutting inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to cut inside and create problems but only show them down the wing. When we have possession, push forward and support Thauvin/Mirallas 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 Llorente. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Clasie/Carvalho/Song - Two DM's and a CM, with the aim of congesting the midfield and frustrating Arsenal and their usual flowing football. Clasie and Carvalho will be 5-10 yards in front of the back four, force Arsenal's AM's/wingers wide and play longer passes, make sure one of you helps out wide when Ronaldo or Reus have possession and attempt to come infield, and look to bully the likes of Aguero and Silva/Ramsey/Yaya if they try to get on the ball. Song is the CM, help out as an extra body when Arsenal have the ball but when we win it back you have license to push forward, play box to box and link the play from back to front. Shoot if the chance arises, look to support Llorente when he holds up the ball and look for Thauvin and Mirallas making runs from wide.

Thauvin/Mirallas - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Arsenal 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 Llorente with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Song, and capitalise on the space Llorente's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.

Llorente - you will be expected to occupy the Arsenal centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. If they double mark you, drop wide and swap with Mirallas to leave him unmarked and near the goal. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight.

Subs 70 mins:
If winning or drawing: Thauvin and Song off, Ayew and Rodwell on. Two like for like changes, Ayew to LW with Mirallas shifting to RW, Rodwell replaces Song at CM as we continue the same gameplan as before.
If losing: Song, Clasie and Thauvin off, Ayew, Alvarez and Doumbia on. Switch to 4-1-3-2, with Carvalho sitting, Mirallas - Alvarez - Ayew behind a front two of Llorente and Doumbia, get the ball forward and push for goals. Fullbacks to get further forward and essentially play as wingbacks.
If winning or drawing at 85 mins: Llorente off, Distin on. Extra CB, protect what we have for the last moments of the game.

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

Pompey vs Soton

----------------------------Hugo Lloris
Carvajal-------Marquinhos-----Mangala-------Marcelo
-------------Javi Martinez--------Luka Modric
-Juan Cuadrado------Mario Gotze----------Sterling
----------------------------Lewandowski

Subs: Chambers, Sokratis, Fernando, Kovacic, Coutinho, Ter Stegen, Immobile

Formation: 4-2-3-1 (dropping back to a 4-5-1 defensively)
Freekicks: Modric (Long) Gotze (Short)
Penalties: Lewandowski
Corners: Modric
Captain: Javi Martinez

_____________________________

We go again against Soton in the 4-2-3-1 formation, with the idea of playing on the wings and getting the ball in towards Lewandowski. Martinez will take the defensive role whilst Modric is the roam, looking to play quick passes to release our wingers and getting our other attackers into play.

We have also lined up with a quick defence, with the two fullbacks offering plenty of energy and speed down the flanks. Marcelo will use his experience and speed to win the battle down the left. Marcelo will be allowed to attack, but nust always track back, as must Carvajal. Mangala and Marquinhos must be on hand to rescue any mistakes.

Mangala and Marquinhos will be playing man to man marking, as we feel they are good enough to fend for themselves. Marquinhos goes for the low balls, and also uses his very good awareness to clock runs from incoming players, and source out danger from all angles. Mangala goes for the high balls, and goes for the second ball, as his lack of pace may be a problem. Marquinhos is slightly quicker so goes for the first ball, whilst Mangala covers his ass.

Carvajal and Marcelo are given license to burn the wings, seeing as we want Sterling and Cuadradoto both come infield from time to time to add another dimension to our play. Both of them know how to cross a wicked un, and they have a great poacher in the box to aim at.

Sterling is bloody rapid, and must use this pace to run the nuts off the LB. He is an extremely tricky player and makes life hell for the best of defenders, and we can use this quality as a way of distraction, opening up space for Marcelo to join in the attack. Sterling also gets into very good position scoring wise, and when given the signal, must bomb into the box looking to get on the end of crosses.

Cuadrado on the other hand, is much more powerful, and really knows how to beat his man with a Yaya-esque drive on him. He loves running at his man, before taking him out of the game, and should aim to come inside and look to angle a ball into the box, aiming for Lewandowski. Carvajal will be on his outside, and seeing as Cuadrado will want to stay central for long periods of the game, he must always act as the support man. However, he must always be alert and make sure both he and Marcelo track back at all times whenever we are under threat. No loitering will be accepted.

Martinez will be the defensive cog in our midfield, as he likes sitting back and getting the ball played to his feet. He isn’t really expected to come out of position, but is allowed the odd run up to the edge of the box to keep his awareness levels high. Javi can be tough tackling, but we don’t want him to be reckless. We must limit the amount of Freekicks conceded as they could turn out to be a source of goals for the opposition. Martinez is also a great passer of the ball, and loves threading through balls of his own across the pitch. This will be another source of danger for City, as Martinez is much more than your every day CDM. He is also quality in the air, and will be a threat from corers and freekicks.

Alongside Javi, Modric will be the star of the show. Dictating the play is his cup of tea, and not only will he act as the go-to guy, he will be our midfield enforcer too, as he loves coming forward with the ball and connecting with the attackers. He has a great shot on him too, so is welcome to whip one when he’s feeling goal hungry.

In AM we have Gotze. He loves playing behind Lewa and he has the vision required to set up Lewa on a plate. Gotze must use his dribbling abiility to get into the box where he can cause severe damage. He is allowed to shoot from range, but his objective is to look for gaps in the defence to play in our attackers.


Up front is Lewandowksi and he is thriving off our recent successes. Lewandowski will be the main source of goals, but he must make sure he gets on the end to all crosses, and when he is feeling isolated, he must do something about it. He is quality in and around the box, so musn't be afraid to run out with his back to goal, in order to get involved in the passing game. He must connect with Gotzem who plays in the hole behind him, and also must use his vision to play in the wingers. Lewa is one of the best when it comes to playing the ball with his back to goal. He is allowed to step out and take the ball on his chest/feet as his eye for a pass is brilliant for a striker. He must always try to be within 15 yards of Gotze, as the best of partnerships require two players to be close to each other at all times. He can use his passing ability to play in our attackers, but his main job is to control his movement in the box so he can be ready for crosses into the box.

__________________________________________

If Lloris gets sent off: Ter Stegen > Cuadrado, play 4-2-2-1 with Gotze on the right
If Carvajal gets sent off, Chambers > Cuadrado, play above
If Marquinhos/Mangala gets sent off, Sokratis > Cuadrado, play above
If Marcelo gets sent off, Nastasic > Cuadrado, play above
If Martinez/Modric get sent off, Kovacic > Cuadrado, play above
If Sterling/Gotze/Cuadrado get sent off, no subs, but play above
If Lew gets sent off, Immobile > Cuadrado, play 4-2-2-1

Subs:

If Drawing 60mins:

Immobile > Cuadrado, 4-4-2, Immobile partners Lew up top, with Sterling left and Gotze right

If winning 60mins:

Fernando > Sterling, offers more steel, off the back of an excellent pre season and really does hold the fort:

----------------------------Ter Stegen
Carvajal-------Sokratis-------Hummels-------Adriano
-------------Javi Martinez------Fernando
-Juan Cuadrado------Luka Modric-----Mario Gotze
----------------------------Lewandowski

Coutinho > Gotze, straight swap, Coutinho very hard working and has lots of quality on the ball, and his energy will keep City busy

If losing 60mins: Hamsik > Martinez + Kovacic > Cuadrado:

-----------------Kovacic
--------Modric-------------Hamsik
-----------------Mario Gotze
---------------------------Sterling
----------------Lewandowski

We go to a 4-1-2-1-1-1 with Sterling playing just off Lewandowski. Push our fullbacks up a notch and play direct with pace.

-----------------------Neuer-----------------------
Debuchy-----Bonucci-----D.Lovren-----Ricardo
------------------Vidal-----Pogba-----------------
Sanchez---------------------------------Memphis
----------------------Neymar----------------------
----------------------Drogba-----------------------

Krul, Sciglio, Iturraspe, Guarin, Thorgan, Morata, Varane

A A small change in formation as we are at home, so Memphis Depay come in for the injured Pirlo as wee look to attack Wolves from the off, Neymar moves to a central free role to support Drogba and run Wolves ragged.

In goal Neuer, for me the best Goalkeeper there is, 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.

Lovren comes into partner Bonucci and look to be a solid pairing at CB for this match on this occassion Lovren will man mark the CF, quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, he also has the power and buld to match Mandzukic better than Varane, he 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. Bonucci alongside will mark any other men that come up for corners etc and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger, will help out Lovren if needed.
Ricardo and Debuchy 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.

Pogba and Vidal are both extremely hard working lads who will get up and down the pitch helping both defence and attack. They sit as they come forward with Pogba picking up the AM, Vidal taking care of business on the other player. They will break up play and get it moving forward, most likely Vidal to burst forward to assist Drogba/Neymar. He is a threat and can score from varous angles/ranges, he is a very dynamic player with great stamina, one who never gives up. Pogba when Vidal bursts forward I want to just sit it, just in case they have a quick break forward, at least he will be there to help the defence out, Mkhitaryan or whoever is in at AM/SS is his focus. Vidal and Pogba will run the centre off the pitch and love playing in the middle of the pitch together and they will be no pushovers for anyone this season.

Sanchez and Memphis are class. Both lightning 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 Drogba memphis is pure pace and goals and loves to attack the defence,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.

Neymar has been given the freedom of Chelsea today, really want to have him driving at Wolves, will move right across the line, switching with the wingersm, darting into space for quick one twos, getting his head up and driving at them, his close controls and first touch are enough to take him passed players, and he will do this time and time again. Never stands still, great support for Drogba

drogba is the prefect striker, two good feet, fantastic in the air, will look to get into positions that he will become dangerous, in fact my front four are a danger and there movement will be a serious concern for the other team. Pace and movement from them, behind Drogba wo will hold it up brilliantly for them, Drogba will be looking to drag the CB away freeing up room for the other three to drive into. With Vidal also supporting we are a huge goal threat to anyone. drogba for high balls needs to leap early to get above the CB, he ahas the power to shrug the CB away and win the ball most times and with his back to goal look to set up others

Captain:- Neuer
Pens:- Sanchez
Freekicks:- Neymar
Corners:- Neymar

Subs:-
Losing/drawing:-
65 Mins - Morata on for Drogba, he has done the damage to the cbs so young quick Morata comes on to run them ragged with Neymar
75 Mins:- Guarin for Pogba, a new drive in the centr of the pitch
82 Mins:- Thorgan for Memphis, neymar left, 4213 Thorgan looking to get the front three in on goal

Winning:-
75 Mins - Iturraspe for Drogba - Neymar goes up front, Iturraspe sits in behind Pogba/Vidal
83 Mins - Guarin for Pogba
85 Mins - Morata for Neymar

Subs:-

ASTON VILLA

4-2-3-1

_______________________Navas______________________
Zabaleta________Mertesacker___Koscielny_________Shaw
_________________Gustavo____Fernandinho____________
Sturridge________________Kroos__________________Koke
_______________________Benzia______________________
SUBS: Begovic, Toprak, Coleman, Gerrard, De Bruyne, Sam, Destro

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 Kroos and Koke will drop back to help, Sturridge stays up as the out ball and Benzia 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:

Kroos - Gustavo - Fernandinho - Koke
Sturridge - Benzia

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 Gustavo 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 Sturridge 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.

Gustavo and Fernandinho:
Sits deep, breaks up play and snap at their heels. Gustavo is an engine that can cover a lot of ground when defending. Gustavo will hardly ever go past the half-way line. Fernandinho will buzz around and dictate play, bursting forwards at times to provide an extra body in attack. Fernandinho will be a bit ahead of Gustavo to be more involved in exchanging passes with full backs / Kroos, even going level with Kroos at times to use his incredible vision to find teammates. Ramsey will need to make himself a goal threat with his late runs into the box in this match. Gustavo 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. Gustavo sticks to position when fullbacks fly forwards, providing cover if needed. Fernandinho drops deeper when this happens.

Sturridge, Kroos and Koke:
Will constantly swap positions with each other. Will look to thread through balls to Benzia 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. Kroos can burst past Benzia 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 Sturridge to sit on their deep lying midfielder and disrupt him from running forwards. 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 Benzia Kroos Gerrard 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).

Benzia:
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: Fernandinho OFF Gerrard ON
Gerrard replaces Fernandinho and we go 4-3-3 with Kroos 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: Gustavo OFF Destro ON
Go 4-2-4 with Benzia Destro centre Sturridge right Koke left. Kroos supports, Fernandinho 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 Benzia 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 Destro change:
Whatever minute: Benzia OFF Toprak ON
Whatever minute: Sturridge OFF Sam 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. Kroos will come into the centre along with Fernandinho with Sam right and Koke left, Destro up front. Sam will provide the counter attacking threat when we win the ball back and him and Destro 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.

-----------------Szczęsny
Uchida----Subotic----Godin---Rojo

--------Strootman------Pjanic
Iturbe------------Mata----------Nasri
------------------Suarez
Subs

Perin, Ginter, Vrsaljko, Henderson, Callejon, De Jong, Higuain

Overview

A counter attacking 4-2-3-1 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 percentage pass. At crosses and set pieces, should look to punch rather than flap at pressurised catches.



Full Backs

Both are effective in the attacking side of the game, and their primary directive 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. Defensively the objective is to push the opposition winger out as wide as possible or show the wingers infield if their objective is to get a cross in.



Centre Backs

Godin will compete with the striker for the aerial balls played up to him, with Subotic looking to win the 2nd ball. When the ball is on the floor, Subotic 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 whilst not afraid to get forward as an extra attacking option, 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 and be an extra attacking presence. When defending, both players will look to close down the space in which the attacking midfielders will look to occupy and restrict them to minimal time on the ball.





Wingers


When they are on the ball, the emphasis for both wingers will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot, and only occasionally putting in crosses, if they do cut inside, the full backs should have moved forward to occupy the touchline and provide the wide option. When our full backs have moved forward, the wingers should look to move the ball into the box, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with Mata and Suarez, as defenders will be extra cautious to not give away a penalty. When the opposite winger has the ball, the winger without the ball should look to find space between the CB and full back to add an extra body for any crosses or capitalise on any defensive errors.
 When defending, they should be involved in the team pressing, particularly on the full backs as well as tracking their movement when they go forward.



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.



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 should also use his knack of anticipating what the defenders are going to try and get the ball to fend them off and gain the crucial advantage to create a chance for himself or others. When defending, he will be the first line of defence, using his high energy game to pressurise the defenders into making quick decisions.

Set Pieces



Corners - Mata takes the corners, the 2 CB's go into the box, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's, Suarez and Strootman attack the ball, Nasri looks to annoy the opposition keeper looking to limit his ability to move around the 6 yard box. Iturbe and Pjanic take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.





Free Kicks - Suarez takes Direct FK's, with Mata occasionally taking them as the 2nd option.

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 with the knowledge to get out quickly for the front 3 to try and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
 Henderson slots in and gets involved in the team pressing.




85 + 87 Mins - Callejon for Iturbe and De Jong for Nasri - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.



If Losing



71 Mins - Callejon + Higuain for Uchida + Iturbe - 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.

83 Mins - De Jong for Nasri - a more direct option.

If Drawing
70 Mins - Henderson for Strootman
76 Mins - Vrsaljko for Uchida
80 Mins - De Jong for Mata

all subs seen as fresh legs with us keeping the same tactical style.

Portsmouth v SOUTHAMPTON


Line up:
http://lineupbuilder.com/?sk=49r32


Substitutes: Ospina; Sagna; Matip; Hernanes; Dembele; Farfan; Ljajic

Captain: Vidic
Penalties: Klass-Jan Huntelaar
Corners: Mertens
Free Kicks: Gaitan


General Tactics: It's derby day on the South Coast and the Southampton players are raring to go. For this game, we are going with a solid 4-3-3 formation based on the twins arts of high pressing and quick counter attacks. We will be looking to be energetic in midfield and play at a high tempo, challenging for every ball whilst trying to keep calm and focused on the match so that we don't go a man behind.


Stage 1 Compressing: http://sharemytactics.com/21487/
Stage 2 Compacting: http://sharemytactics.com/21488/
Stage 3 Controlling: http://sharemytactics.com/21489/

Our pressing game for this encounter is heavily influenced by the 6-second rule implemented by Guardiola's Barcelona during their most recent period of domination. The system is dissected in to 3 stages: Compressing, Compacting and Controlling.

In stage 1, we look to push our front players forward to close down the opposition player on the ball whilst the ranks behind also move forward to cover gaps behind them. This narrows down the options for the opposition playmaker - he has the choice to pass the ball backwards, thus ruining the chance to attack quickly, or he can chance it and run at our defence our attempt a long ball. This pressing game is particularly effective with a 3 man midfield as the extra numbers allow the team to choke out the middle of the pitch and add pressure to the opposition.

If, after 6 seconds of high tempo pressing, we do not have the ball - we move to the second stage: Compacting. The Compacting stage is where we look to flood certain danger areas with bodies so that the opposition does not have a clear pass to cause us major trouble. These danger areas will usually be the flanks but will also, occasionally be the centre of the park. The front 3 are still pressing the ball in this stage but the midfield trio have moved back to cover gaps in our formation - this could be slotting in to the defence or crowding out the opposition midfield/wings dependant on the opposition attack. The back 4 also drop in to deeper defensive positions and are on high alert for runs in behind the line.

If it is clear that the opposition are in a sustained period of possession, the team moves on the Stage 3: Controlling.This final stage is where we aim to form 3 solid lines that dissect the opposition formation and make it harder for them to pass the ball up the field. The demonstration shows the forward patrolling between the midfield and defence thus cutting off that outlet and forcing the opposition forward. It also displays the midfield looking to block off runs from the Portsmouth full backs and central midfielders whilst the defence looks to man mark the dangerous Portsmouth front line. The intention with this style is to dictate where and when Portsmouth can play the ball and to nullify the dangerous pace and ability that they have.

Attack: http://sharemytactics.com/21491/

In attack, we will look to control the tempo of the game, keeping the play simple in an attempt to draw Portsmouth out in to an area where we can exploit holes in their defence. However, it has been made clear to the team that possession of the football is more important than attempting to force through balls that aren't there. Our wingers will constantly be looking to get behind the defensive line and the full backs will push up to provide support to them. The midfield will push up in to an area where they can collect passes from the defence and from up front and the trio will take it in turns to make darting runs with a view to dragging the opposition defence out of place. This attacking style requires a lot of stamina and physical presence but that is something this Southampton side has in abundance.


Individual tactics:

Howard: As captain, 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.

Baines & Lichtsteiner: Very good attacking full backs who have decent pace and great stamina which makes them perfect for this dual role. They will push forward whenever possible but make sure to keep an eye out for potential counter attacks. Only push forward if it's safe to do so.

Vidic & Fazio: Will have to sit deep to counter the opposition pace. Both strong and good in the air so expected to win aerial duels. Fazio to sit slightly deeper to deal with Lewandowski's pace.

Sandro, Asamoah & Ramires: Midfield trio will be playing with high energy, covering every blade of grass and contributing to both sides of the pitch. Will man mark the closest opposition midfield and take it in turns to bomb forward. Keep passes simple!

Mertens & Gaitan: Pacey and good crossers - they will be looking to get behind the Portsmouth line and cross the ball for Huntelaar. They will also be given free rein to drop deep and run at the defence with the ball. Will have to track back when not in possession but main job is to cause panic in the Pompey lines.

Huntelaar: Do whatever you can to get the ball in to the net. Try to use strength to your advantage and don't lose out on the aerial battles. Keep on the shoulder of the last man and look to shoot whenever you have the ball close to the opposition area. Close down the centre backs and keeper whenever they are in possession.


Substitutions:

70 minutes: Dembele for Ramires: Mostly a like for like change but Dembele adds more physicality and fresh legs.

75 minutes: Farfan for Gaitan: Farfan has tonnes of pace to burn and his fresh legs will be used to bomb at a tired Portsmouth left back.

75 minutes: Ljajic for Huntelaar: Ljajic will play as a False 9, looking to come deep and create attacks out wide before dashing in to get on the end of the cross. He will also be looking to defend a little deeper than Huntelaar.

IMPORTANT:
In the case of a Red Card, the team will forego Stage 1 of the defensive process and will look to protect the 1/3 points IF they are not losing. If this is the case, Huntelaar will come off to be replaced by a player who can perform in the area we have lost a player ie, Sagna for RB, Hernanes for CM or Matip for CB.

If, however, we are not winning and we are a man down, we will be looking to throw caution to the wind and send as many players forward as is possible. We will operate under the mantra that a 1-0 loss and a 10-0 loss gets the same amount of points.

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

------------------ Caballero -------------
Ramos ------ Dante --- Agger -- Coentrao

-------------- D.Luiz --- Wilshere ---------

Schurrle -------- E.Hazard ------ F.Ribery
---------------- R.Van Persie -----------------

Subs : Rose, Nagatomo, Tiago, Fellaini, Valencia, Ozil, Bacca
-----------------
Tiago > Luiz – 60th min – Tiago is used to playing in a well organised pressing system so should look to throw himself about today and make sure we're controlling proceedings.

Bacca > Ribery - 70th minute (Hazard LW, Bacca SS) - Bacca look to play in behind RVP and give him that support by occupying their CB's and holding up the play when required using his strength.

Ozil > Schurrle - 75th min – Look to get his head up and play that killer pass whilst linking with others and cutting inside.
----------------------
The outline:
We're at home today so we want to dominate, a exciting attack combined with a solid defence we have more than enough in our locker to overcome the opposition. I generally want us to keep things simple though and the rest will fall in place.

We must play with high intensity however we need to know when to press and when to sit off. We start high up as we want to leave them with no option but to kick deep as we feel we have players better equipped to win aerial duels and thus regain possession. This should mean we have more of the ball and they tire looking to chase our shadows throughout the game.

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. Dante must dominate from the outset and his experience should come to the fore. In midfield Luiz and Wilshere must maintain the pressure and look to disrupt the play.

Attacking wise we feel they lack a midfield enforcer so Hazard is deployed in the centre, as with him being very direct added with his pace and skill we can slice open the game and the opposition with the likes of RVP, Schurrle and Ribery making the runs off of him.

The fullbacks have the license to get forward when possible and support the wingers so we have an alternative method of attack whilst Schurrle and Ribery both have the ability and work-rate to support defensively.

We have the players to counter effectively whenever possible. Van Persie has proved time after time he can win games on his own and armed with a lethal trio in behind him he should thrive today.
-----------------
Individual tactics:

Caballero gets his chance and must make it count today, 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.

Dante and Agger add additional layers to our defensive solidarity, Dante 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. Agger partners Dante 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.

Luiz and Wilshere add force and bite to our midfield, Luiz will act as the workhorse and 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. in terms of a counter attack approach, Luiz has the ability to pick out an inch perfect pass without hesitation, we need him on the ball to get that transition from defensive duties to attack so our attackers have the space and time to hit the opposition hard within seconds.
Wilshere starts today as he adds energy and will, we want young legs in midfield looking to take the game to their players and really getting stuck in so we can get the ball back as quick as possible and start our own attacks. He must look to work in tandem with Luiz and literally run himself in the ground.

Hazard 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 drive to fly past challenges and opening up the game so others have the space and time when they receive the ball.
The wingers must support, Schurrle is very good at finding space and making off the ball runs, Ribery very direct looking to take on players and cutting inside to good measure looking to make things happen.

RVP 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 - Hazard/ Luiz (20 yards +)
Pens - RVP

ASTON VILLA

4-2-3-1

_______________________Navas______________________
Coleman________Mertesacker___Koscielny_________Shaw
_________________Gustavo_____Gerrard_______________
Sturridge________________Kroos__________________Koke
_______________________Destro______________________
SUBS: Begovic, Toprak, Cole, Verratti, De Bruyne, Sam, Benzia

Captain: Steven Gerrard
Right free-kicks: Toni Kroos
Left free-kicks: Toni Kroos
Penalties: Steven Gerrard
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 Kroos and Koke will drop back to help, Sturridge stays up as the out ball and Destro 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:

Kroos - Gustavo - Gerrard - Koke
Sturridge - Destro

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 Gustavo 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.

Coleman and Shaw:
Coleman 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 Coleman will look to overlap Sturridge and run into the box. Coleman 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.

Gustavo and Gerrard:
Sits deep, breaks up play and snap at their heels. Gustavo is an engine that can cover a lot of ground when defending. Gustavo will hardly ever go past the half-way line. Gerrard will buzz around and dictate play, bursting forwards at times to provide an extra body in attack. Gerrard will be a bit ahead of Gustavo to be more involved in exchanging passes with full backs / Kroos, even going level with Kroos at times to use his incredible vision to find teammates. Ramsey will need to make himself a goal threat with his late runs into the box in this match. Gustavo 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. Gustavo sticks to position when fullbacks fly forwards, providing cover if needed. Gerrard drops deeper when this happens.

Sturridge, Kroos and Koke:
Will constantly swap positions with each other. Will look to thread through balls to Destro 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. Kroos can burst past Destro 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 Sturridge to sit on their deep lying midfielder and disrupt him from running forwards. When Coleman gets forward during his rare forward runs Koke will attempt to find him at the far post for Coleman to knock the ball across goal for Destro Kroos Gerrard 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).

Destro:
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: Gerrard OFF Verratti ON
Verratti replaces Gerrard and we go 4-3-3 with Kroos 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: Gustavo OFF Benzia ON
Go 4-2-4 with Benzia Destro centre Sturridge right Koke left. Kroos supports, Gerrard 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 Benzia 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 Benzia change:
Whatever minute: Destro OFF Toprak ON
Whatever minute: Sturridge OFF Sam 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. Kroos will come into the centre along with Gerrard with Sam right and Koke left, Benzia up front. Sam will provide the counter attacking threat when we win the ball back and him and Benzia 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.

^ for chelsea

———————————Courtois
Corchia———Nkoulou———————Terry———Moreno
————————Matic————Nainngolan
——Raul Garcia—————————————Griezzman
——————————Rooney
—————————————Origi


Subs: Ryan, Howedes, Matuidi, Tielemans, Praet, Sneijder, Bakkali

Captain: John Terry
Free Kicks: Wayne Rooney/Antoine Griezzman
Penalties: Wayne Rooney
Corners: Antoine Griezzman/Radja Nainngolan

We will look to put in a dominant performance today, controlling the game on and off the ball, using our power and pace to overcome a fighting Swansea side. We work to press from the front in 3 stages of vertical and horizontal defending, squeezing space in order to keep Swansea pegged back, compacting the pitch so they can never break at speed.

Stage 1:

http://sharemytactics.com/23682/

The front four close down with intense pressure, stopping the opposition back line being able to play the ball out into midfield, force them back to the keeper and long or wide to the FBs. Rooney and Origi close on the CBs whilst the two wide attacking midfielders squeeze inside and block the route to the midfield.

Stage 2:

http://sharemytactics.com/23684/

Defend the area of the pitch the ball has been played to by compacting the side. If we have forced them wide we move to defend this horizontal area of the pitch in numbers, the FB and wide attacker been the two to press the players, with the forwards and one CM coming across to squeeze the space and step in if the other two are beaten, give them no way of playing the ball centrally, if they push it forward we have the CBs and DM in position to step in and break up play. If they move it across we have the players on the opposite side in position to slow play down whilst we reorganise.

http://sharemytactics.com/23687/

If from stage one they get the ball central we set up with two banks of four and the two strikers dropping in to press the deeper midfielders, if the midfielders get beyond those two they will have Matic and Nainngolan to get through. We squeeze the space in the midfield, keep the lines compact with the two wide attackers moving out to stop the FBs if they overlap and they contract if Swansea get numbers central. Keeping the lines tight allows us to squeeze the ball if they get it to the striker.

Stage 3:

http://sharemytactics.com/23906/

The same, but deeper, with the FBs tight to the CBs and we defend our 18 yard line. FBs push out when they have to defend the flanks. Restrict Swansea possession without any space to play the ball into, frustrate them.

We have adapted the team for more possession today, selecting the players who are able to keep hold of the ball and use it in tight areas. We still want quick transitions, so when they have the ball we win it back very quickly and keep them under pressure, moving it forward at pace and exploiting gaps. The periods of the game where we are keeping the ball we still want to play at pace, from the very off we should be moving the ball quickly, using the movement we have in central areas of the field and the pace we have out wide, we do not want to give Swansea a second to settle into the game, go after the early goal. We will get the Fbs pushed up the field, making overlapping runs to allow us to double up out wide and create the space in those positions, either to cross or to bring the ball back central when players have been dragged out to defend the wide positions, using the movement of the CFs to our advantage, Origi in particular loves to make wide runs, this will open spaces for Rooney to make runs into the space opened up, as well as allowing either of our wide men to attack the middle. All across the attack we have players who can beat a man with their pace and skill, we want to use this to open up spaces, so Moreno, Corchia, Griezzman, Origi in particular must all look to be adventurous in their play. Matic, Garcia and Rooney provide the power, with Rooney, Matic and Nainngolan in particular also looking to provide the killer passes to open up Swansea. We will always have a counter attacking threat, so if we win the ball deep in our half we get it forward quickly, looking to get it into the strikers who have dropped deep, either the feet of Rooney or wide to where Origi will make his runs. Whilst if the short passing counters fail, we push Garcia into Rooneys position and play more direct balls into Origi and Garcia.

Individual:

Courtois commands his area, collecting crosses and distributing quickly.

FBs get forward when we attack, providing an overlap and decoy runs. When defending they stand up to the wingers never diving in, defending with energy higher up the field, but staying close to the CBs in our final third, only pushing out to stop crosses.

Terry to man mark the striker getting tight and forcing him to go back to midfield, Nkoulou there to cover when the pace is needed, whilst dealing with midfield runners. Neither get sucked in if the striker drops deep or moves wide, focus on their own area.

Matic and Nainngolan look to provide us with a platform to control the game, winning the midfield battle, keeping the ball moving at speed, looking for the gaps in their defence. Step in a break up play when needed.

Griezzman provides pace, Garcia power. We want Griezzman looking to work the tight spaces with his trickery and intelligent passing, whilst Garcia can be used as a more direct option, giving the defenders something else to deal with either in wide or central areas.

Rooney and Origi upfront. Work off each other, with one making runs to drop deeper and get involved in play, usually Rooney, and the other making runs off the defenders to get on goal. Origi looks to make runs to the wings where he can isolate defenders and beat them, opening up space centrally for our wide attackers.

Subs:

If Winning: Matuidi for Origi 70’, reshuffle with Griezzman SS, Nainngolan LM, allows us to keep possession and control the game in the late stages. Howedes for Garcia 75’, Corchia comes up to RM, stretch a tired defence. Tielemans for Nainngolan 80’, comes on for his league debut, enjoy himself.

If Drawing: Sneijder and Bakkali for Nainngolan and Garcia 70’. Sneijder will move forward more and look to spot the gaps, Matic can cover the midfield, Bakkali look to be direct, hurt the opposition. Praet for Origi 75’, Griezzman behind Rooney, Praet LM and look to move infield and link with Sneijder.

If Losing: Howedes for Corchia 65’, move to a back 3, with Moreno LM, Tielemans and Sneijder for Matic and Origi 70’:

Nkoulou Terry Howedes
Tielemans Nainngolan
Griezzman Sneijder Moreno
Rooney Garcia

Midfield 3 can really open teams up, two fast wide players to stretch things, two strikers to put the pressure on.

Leicester
Injuries:-
Karim Rekik
Juan Jesus
Andi Wiemann
Mathieu Valbuena

-----------------------Casillas------------------------
--------------Alex-----V.Dijk-----Kaya--------------
Santon-----------Delph----Monty-----------Armero
-----Hulk de Souza-------------Willian Borges-----
----------------------Di Natale-----------------------

Mitryushkin. Isla, Rodwell, Barry, Firmino, Varela, Soldado

Going with the 343 when attack, 541 when defend. A work in oprgress but these players are out to prove they deserve the shirt. It worked last week with a terrific win over Aston Villa so no need to change system, however a couple of player changes with Kaya and Di Natale comng in.

Back 3 with Dijk in the middle, he is the ball player and can start attacks from the back, skillfull for a CB and can drive up the pitch but only when in no danger. Alex and Kaya sit in when he does this, but as a back 3 they sit in tight, Alex and Juan looking to take care of the CF, where ever he goes leaving Dijk spare to watch for the AM coming through. Armero and Santon have tough shifts ahead, up and down the pitch spporting defence and attack, when they come forward into defence to create a 5 man barrier for them to try and break down, and attack look to get on the over lap to support Willian and Hulk as they drive forward, either take the ball down the line or at very least there fullback freeing up space for our wingers to take advantage of.

Delph is a tireless runner always getting onto the face of his opposite number. A real pain to go up against, push them back and stop them dictating play, when he drives forward he is partial to a long ranger so give it a go. Monty dictates our play from deep, doesnt move that far forward but can play the killer pass to the wide men or Di Natale to latch onto for them to drive in on goal, will sit in with Delph and break up play.

Hulk and Willian I want to drive at them today and support Soldado best they can, Hulk with sheer power and pace will shrug off challenges easily as he drives nto the box, whereas Willian will use his skill to get him passed players with Monty/Armero he plays the ones twos that get him beyond the fullbacks and for crosses to get into Hulk and Di Natale.

in a 541 when we defend they must track back, doubt both there fullbacks will attack at the same time so if there LB attacks obvs Willian tracks him I want Hulk to move in to the centre to help out Delph and Monty and vice versa with the otherside, Willian moving in.

Di Natale is the new main man up front, can still hit the back f the net despite his age, A low centre of gravity which makes him difficult to mark, will be bullied by the big Cbs so just let them, take the hit win a FK. Fantastic eye for goal. Just move around looking and waiting for the perfect opportunity to get into the danger area.


Captain:- Alex
Penalties:- Willian
Freekicks:- Alex if a in a good area to drive at, otherwise Hulk
Corners:- Willian

Subs:-
Losing -
70 Mins - Firmino for Kaya - 4231n -More attacking giving Firmino a free role
80 Mins - Varela for Di Natale, he goes RW with Hulk going up front to cause some damage
85 Mins - Soldado for Willian, Armero push up into LM
3412

Winning
70 Mins - Barry for Delph, experienced head into the middle of the park to shore it up
80 Mins - Isla for Di Natale, Isla to RM, Hulk up top two WBs drop back 541

Drawing
70 Mins - Varela for Di Natale, Hulk up front Varela extra energy wide right

fall behind any time after this Soldado for Kaya
4231 Hulk in behind Soldado

80 Mins - Barry for Delph

--------------------------Krul-------------------------
Debuchy-------Varane-------Lovren-------Ricardo
-----------------------Iturraspe----------------------
-----------------Pogba--------Vidal------------------
Sanchez-------------------------------------Neymar
-----------------------Benzema----------------------

Butland, Sciglio, Pirlo, Rabiot, Menez, Depay, Kiessling

We have a couple of first team injuries but brought in two fine replacements in Lovren and Iturraspe as too not disrupt the shape or formation we aim to use this season.

In goal Krul, a good Goalkeeper, 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.

Varane and Lovren are a solid pairing at CB, on this occassion Varane 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. Lovren alongside will mark any big men that come up for corners etc and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger, will help out Varane if needed.
Ricardo and Sciglio 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.

iturraspe comes in to put a halt to Kroos who i'd imagine will be playing central, stop Kroos, we stop Villa, 100% focus on the job at hand, always keep a close eyue on him even when we are attacking as a quick break from Villa could see Kroos away free and setting up a chance. Clsoe him down early, do not give him any time at all. When the ball is won simple balls forward or to the side. Defending he will be aided by Pogba and Vidal who will do the marking job on the two other midfielders. Both extremely hard working lads who will get up and down the pitch helping both defence and attack. They sit as a three with Pogba picking up the other most advanced midfielder, Vidal taking care of business on the other player. They will break up play and get it moving forward, both Vidal and Pogba can burst forward to assist Benzema, leaving Iturraspe back. Both are threats and can score from varous angles/ranges, very dynamic players with great stamina, pass and move, get into positions where they will become a threat, Interchange to darg there midfield about to create room for others in the centre to drive into, ie Neymar. Both can go for goal from distance as they both possess a wonderful shot.

Sanchez and Neymar are class. Both lightning 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 Benzema. Neymar focusses more on the ttricks 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.

Benzema is the prefect striker, two good feet, good in the air, will look to get into positions that he will become dangerous, in fact my front three are a danger and there movement will be a serious concern for the other team. Pace and movement from them, can all play CF or drift wide so when the winger comes in Benzema will be looking to drag the CB away freeing up room for the other two to drive into. With Pogba/Vidal also supporting we are a huge goal threat to anyone. Benzema for high balls needs to leap early to get above the CB, and with his back to goal look to set up others who are driving in.


Captain;- Vidal
Penalties:- Benzema
Free kicks:- Neymar
Corners:- Wingers

Subs:-
Losing/drawing
70 mins - Pirlo for Iturraspe and Menez for Pogba, Vidal and Pirlo sit in the middle, Vidal picking up Kroos, allowing pirlo to try and get things moving, Menez goes RW and Sanchez into support Benzema 4231
80 Mins - Kiessling for Sanchez 442 (if losing)
80 Mins - Kiessling for Benzema (if drawing)

Winning
70 Mins - Depay for Neymar -new energy, will track back and help Ricardo
80 Mins - Rabiot for Pogba - final 10 mins to get stuck in
85 Mins - Kiessling for Benzema - hold it up but stilll good for a goal

SWANSEA tactics vs Liverpool

---------------------------Alves---------------------
Cacares---Rio--Papadopulos--Rami ---Maxwell---
--------------------Motta-----Irramendi-------------
----------Salah---------------------------Cerci
-------------------------Negredo-------------------

Subs: Baumann, Contento, Yedlin, Holtby, Parejo ,Lanzini , Rondon

Tactics: Similiar tactics to which we employed against Arsenal. We need to defend as a team first and foremost. We be defending a little deeper. Some may say 'park the bus'. I will say deep counter attack with pace. We are aware of the talents of Liverpool especially when they play at home but they will be surprised to how committed we will be and trying to win every single ball. We shall double up on the wingers like Greizmann and make sure he doesnt have space to play with. Centrally, anyyone who is threatening with have either Motta or Irra in their face and doubled up by a CB so he passes back.
We are hoping for them to commit more and more players and leave the CB's to defend so once we receive that ball, Cerci, Salah and Negredo all have the beating of them and have open space to sprint into. We do feel we can win this game as tactially we will be organised and play this way as it has been very effective for us. No matter whatever happens, we will remain in this formation otherwise Liverpool will hurt us. We attack with speed, direction and make sure that our passes are accurate.

Alves - Aggressive on set-pieces and needs to be focussed with long rang shooting. If in doubt, hoof it out. Stay big 1v1s and stay on feet as long as possible.

Rami, Papa and Rio
They will have to be totally concentrated and make sure that they dont leave gaps for the likes of Rooney, Matic and Turan to make a killer pass. Close down attackers quick with the help of the central midfielders. We aggressively attack in the air and show Liverpool, we will not cave in. All do not make rash challenges and keep communicating. Not defending too deep either. All 3 are targets for attacking set-pieces. It is imperative that once they receive the ball, they look for the attacking players as quick as possible.

Maxwell and Cacares
Both solid defenders and will not do hardly any attacking but will be helped by the central midfielders and CB's to double up on their wide players. Stay on your feet and barge them out to touch. Offensively they will be feeding the wingers and try and avoid helping them as we want the opposition to try and commit as many players as possible.

Illarramendi and Motta
They will be on defensive duties and Motta will be man-marking the attacking midfielder most closest to goal and keep close to them. Illara will be covering and closing down the central midfielders who need time and space to hurt us so we as a team close them quick and he will be one of them. Illara will be assisted by Negredo to put pressure on the central midfielders as they will have hardly any space so we try and get that ball quick and counter.

Cerci and Salah
Both will be playing alongside the central midfielders but wider so they can help the full backs. As the game evolves as they need to be assisting the midfielders to double up as much as possible.
They shall start as deep as Ill and help our respective full-backs but as soon as we receive the ball, they both will be sprinting up on their respective flanks and out-pacing their defence to run at goal. It has to be direct running as we dont want their players catching up. They will be smart and make runs at open spaces that will be vacant. We feel this will be our best option to get a goal or two in open play.

Negredo.
Will start as in AM role and help defensively by targeting the CM and dispossesing the midfielders and start the quick attack. However, he has the ability to score and outpace their defence. Negredo is mart enough and has the attributes to take any CB and fire at goal and he will have the licence to shoot at sight.

Subs:
75mins: Rondon for Negredo (same role)

78mins: Holtby for Cerci. (same role) Holtby to play a more deeper role to assist Maxwell and has the legs to compete.

Capt: Motta
Free kicks: Cerci
Pens: Negredo

Tactics vs Leicester City

----------------------------------Scuffet--------------------------------

Juanfran---------Benatia-------------Musacchio---------Alex Sandro

---------------------Witsel-------Cabaye----------------------

Walcott----------------Quintero-------------------Berardi

-----------------------------Rossi-------------------------------

subs: Patricio, Otamendi, Darmian, De Jong, Markovic, Marchisio, Rodrigo

Game plan: our plan today is to go at Leicester from the off, we're experimenting with a new team and system and will be looking to express ourselves and get back back on track after 2 defeats in a row. 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-------------------------Musacchio----------

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

-----------------------Cabaye-----------Quintero-----------------

Walcott------------------------------------------------Berardi

--------------------------------Rossi-------------------------------

out of possession

Juanfran------Benatia-------------Musacchio--------Sandro

---------------------Witsel---------Cabaye--------------------

Walcott--------------------Quintero-------------------Berardi

--------------------------------Rossi-----------------------------


Scuffet: very young, but a 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 Musacchio are to talk to each other constantly and be wary of the movement of the Leicester CF's but they will not be sucked out of position, Witsel and Cabaye 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 Cabaye 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.

Cabaye 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 Leicester any breathing space.

Juan Quintero 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 Rossi, Walcott and Berardi who will bomb forward and provide an outlet in the wide areas. We will look to get Quintero 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.

Giuseppe Rossi 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.

Subs: Rodrigo for Rossi on 70 minutes, straight swap, very similar players.

if winning after 75 minutes, Nigel De Jong for Cabaye, NDJ to act as an out and out anchorman in midfield, no risks, just sit and protect the back 4, also the fullbacks to be less attacking and take less risks.

Captain: Mehdi Benatia
Freekicks: Juan Quintero
Penalties: Giuseppe Rossi
Corners: Cabaye

----------------------------Hugo Lloris
Chambers-------Sokratis-----Hummels-------Marcelo
-------------Javi Martinez--------Luka Modric
-Juan Cuadrado------Mario Gotze----------Sterling
----------------------------Immobile

Subs: Chambers, Mangala, Fernando, Kovacic, Coutinho, Ter Stegen, Lukaku

Formation: 4-2-3-1 (dropping back to a 4-5-1 defensively)
Freekicks: Modric (Long) Gotze (Short)
Penalties: Immobile
Corners: Modric
Captain: Javi Martinez

_____________________________

We go again against Newcastle in the 4-2-3-1 formation, with the idea of playing on the wings and getting the ball in towards Immobile. Martinez will take the defensive role whilst Modric is the roam, looking to play quick passes to release our wingers and getting our other attackers into play.

We have also lined up with a quick defence, with the two fullbacks offering plenty of energy and speed down the flanks. Marcelo will use his experience and speed to win the battle down the left. Marcelo will be allowed to attack, but nust always track back, as must Chambers. Hummels and Sokratis must be on hand to rescue any mistakes.

Hummels and Sokratis will be playing man to man marking, as we feel they are good enough to fend for themselves. Sokratis goes for the low balls, and also uses his very good awareness to clock runs from incoming players, and source out danger from all angles. Hummels goes for the high balls, and goes for the second ball, as his lack of pace may be a problem. Sokratis is slightly quicker so goes for the first ball, whilst Hummels covers his ass.

Chambers and Marcelo are given license to burn the wings, seeing as we want Sterling and Cuadrado to both come infield from time to time to add another dimension to our play. Both of them know how to cross a wicked un, and they have a great poacher in the box to aim at.

Sterling is bloody rapid, and must use this pace to run the nuts off the LB. He is an extremely tricky player and makes life hell for the best of defenders, and we can use this quality as a way of distraction, opening up space for Marcelo to join in the attack. Sterling also gets into very good position scoring wise, and when given the signal, must bomb into the box looking to get on the end of crosses.

Cuadrado on the other hand, is much more powerful, and really knows how to beat his man with a Yaya-esque drive on him. He loves running at his man, before taking him out of the game, and should aim to come inside and look to angle a ball into the box, aiming for Immobile. Chambers will be on his outside, and seeing as Cuadrado will want to stay central for long periods of the game, he must always act as the support man. However, he must always be alert and make sure both he and Marcelo track back at all times whenever we are under threat. No loitering will be accepted.

Martinez will be the defensive cog in our midfield, as he likes sitting back and getting the ball played to his feet. He isn’t really expected to come out of position, but is allowed the odd run up to the edge of the box to keep his awareness levels high. Javi can be tough tackling, but we don’t want him to be reckless. We must limit the amount of Freekicks conceded as they could turn out to be a source of goals for the opposition. Martinez is also a great passer of the ball, and loves threading through balls of his own across the pitch. This will be another source of danger for the oppo, as Martinez is much more than your every day CDM. He is also quality in the air, and will be a threat from corers and freekicks.

Alongside Javi, Modric will be the star of the show. Dictating the play is his cup of tea, and not only will he act as the go-to guy, he will be our midfield enforcer too, as he loves coming forward with the ball and connecting with the attackers. He has a great shot on him too, so is welcome to whip one when he’s feeling goal hungry.

In AM we have Gotze. He loves playing behind Immobile and he has the vision required to set up him on a plate. Gotze must use his dribbling abiility to get into the box where he can cause severe damage. He is allowed to shoot from range, but his objective is to look for gaps in the defence to play in our attackers.


Up front is Immobile and he is thriving off our recent successes. Immobile will be the main source of goals, but he must make sure he gets on the end to all crosses, and when he is feeling isolated, he must do something about it. He is quality in and around the box, so musn't be afraid to run out with his back to goal, in order to get involved in the passing game. He must connect with Gotzem who plays in the hole behind him, and also must use his vision to play in the wingers. Immobile is one of the best when it comes to playing the ball with his back to goal. He is allowed to step out and take the ball on his chest/feet as his eye for a pass is brilliant for a striker. He must always try to be within 15 yards of Gotze, as the best of partnerships require two players to be close to each other at all times. He can use his passing ability to play in our attackers, but his main job is to control his movement in the box so he can be ready for crosses into the box.

__________________________________________

If Lloris gets sent off: Ter Stegen > Cuadrado, play 4-2-2-1 with Gotze on the right
If Chambers gets sent off, Chambers > Cuadrado, play above
If Sokratis/Hummels gets sent off, Sokratis > Cuadrado, play above
If Marcelo gets sent off, Nastasic > Cuadrado, play above
If Martinez/Modric get sent off, Kovacic > Cuadrado, play above
If Sterling/Gotze/Cuadrado get sent off, no subs, but play above
If Lew gets sent off, Immobile > Cuadrado, play 4-2-2-1

Subs:

If Drawing 60mins:

Lukaku > Cuadrado, 4-4-2, Immobile partners Lukaku up top, with Sterling left and Gotze right

If winning 60mins:

Fernando > Sterling, offers more steel, off the back of an excellent pre season and really does hold the fort:

----------------------------Ter Stegen
Chambers-------Sokratis-------Hummels-------Adriano
-------------Javi Martinez------Fernando
-Juan Cuadrado------Luka Modric-----Mario Gotze
----------------------------Immobile

Coutinho > Gotze, straight swap, Coutinho very hard working and has lots of quality on the ball, and his energy will keep City busy

If losing 60mins: Coutinho > Martinez + Kovacic > Cuadrado:

-----------------Kovacic
--------Modric-------------Coutinho
-----------------Mario Gotze
---------------------------Sterling
----------------Immobile

We go to a 4-1-2-1-1-1 with Sterling playing just off Immobile. Push our fullbacks up a notch and play direct with pace.

Aurier on the bench instead of Chambers

And take out the red card situation too

-----------------Szczęsny
Uchida----Subotic----Sakho---Rojo

---------------Strootman
------Henderson-------Pjanic
Iturbe----------------------------Nasri
------------------Suarez
Subs

Perin, Davies, Vrsaljko, McCarthy, Callejon, De Jong, Higuain

Overview

A slight change in formation with henderson brought into a midfield 3 full of energy and pressing to combat the fluid style of Pompey whilst still having the threat on the counter to trouble their defence.

Keeper


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



Full Backs

Both are effective in the attacking side of the game, and their primary directive 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. Defensively the objective is to push the opposition winger out as wide as possible or show the wingers into the congested infield if their objective is to get a cross in.



Centre Backs

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


Strootman will be sitting at the base of the midfield looking to get himself into pockets of space so he can get the ball off the CBs and keep the ball moving, When defending, all 3 will look to close down the space in which their AMs/CMs will look to occupy and restrict their time on the ball. All 3 will be utilising their high energy styles to get themselves around the pitch, being key figures in the pressing game and using their energy to get forward to make late runs and be extra attacking presences. When defending, they are looking to press in the middle third of the pitch, pressing the AMs/CMs as they are looking to control the ball to give them little time to move it on, as well as working with the strikers to limit the attacking presence of their full backs.





Wingers


When they are on the ball, the emphasis for both wingers will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot, and only occasionally putting in crosses, if they do cut inside, the full backs should have moved forward to occupy the touchline and provide the wide option. When our full backs have moved forward, the wingers should look to move the ball into the box, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the midfield and Suarez, as defenders will be extra cautious to not give away a penalty. When the opposite winger has the ball, the winger without the ball should look to find space between the CB and full back to add an extra body for any crosses or capitalise on any defensive errors.
 When defending, they should be involved in the team pressing, particularly on the full backs as well as tracking their movement 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 should also use his knack of anticipating what the defenders are going to try and get the ball to fend them off and gain the crucial advantage to create a chance for himself or others. When defending, he will be the first line of defence, using his high energy game to pressurise the defenders into making quick decisions.

Set Pieces



Corners - Pjanic takes the corners, the CB's and Rojo go into the box, Uchida and Iturbe stay back to prevent counters, the CBs, Rojo and Suarez will be working as a pack to provide subtle little blocks to the defenders so a couple of them have a fairly clean run at attacking the ball, Nasri looks to annoy the opposition keeper looking to limit his ability to move around the 6 yard box. Strootman takes a position just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.





Free Kicks - Suarez takes Direct FK's, with Mata occasionally taking them as the 2nd option.

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





Penalties - Suarez is the designated taker.





Subs



If Winning


72 mins - McCarthy for Pjanic - The wingers tuck back, but with the knowledge to get out quickly for the front 3 to try and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
 McCarthy slots in a more defenisve role and gets involved in the team pressing.




85 + 87 Mins - Callejon for Iturbe and De Jong for Nasri - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.



If Losing



71 Mins - Callejon + Higuain for Uchida + Iturbe - 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.

83 Mins - De Jong for Nasri - a more direct option.

If Drawing
70 Mins - McCarthy for Strootman
76 Mins - Vrsaljko for Uchida
80 Mins - Davies for Rojo

all subs seen as fresh legs with us keeping the same tactical style.

West Brom v EVERTON

Injuries: Javier Manquillo, Davide Astori, Jonjo Shelvey
Suspended: Ramires

------------------Mandanda--------------
Pereira---Veltman---Skrtel---Criscito
--------------Song---Carvalho------------
------Mirallas---Alvarez---Bernard
-------------------Llorente-----------------

Subs: Stockdale, Ogbonna, Umtiti, Flamini, Valero, Ayew, Doumbia

West Brom are one of the teams we need to pick up wins from, after a narrow defeat to Arsenal we need to bounce back and that's why I've gone with a more attacking system. 4-2-3-1 today for us, with Thauvin in the central position, Carvalho and Song the midfield two with Song the box to box man while Carvalho is the one who holds. A new CB pairing in Veltman and Skrtel who have a combination of pace, strength, experience and quality in possession. We have more defensive minded fullbacks today so more likely to keep our shape and also allow the attackers to do their jobs.

Mandanda - 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.

Veltman/Skrtel - Skrtel to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Veltman to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and prevent any runners 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.

Pereira/Criscito - I want you both to stay with the West Brom wingers. 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. When we have possession, push forward and support Bernard/Mirallas 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 Llorente and link with Alvarez. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Song/Carvalho - Our midfield henchmen, Carvalho to be the one who sits and protects the back four, close down any WBA players who break from midfield and in possession look to supply your teammates. Song has licence to go forward, playing the box to box role that defined him at Arsenal. In possession, support the front four and look for that killer pass towards Llorente. Without the ball I want you to sit alongside Carvalho and frustrate WBA, plug any holes in midfield and win back possession ASAP.

Mirallas/Bernard - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the West Brom 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 Llorente with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Alvarez and Song, and capitalise on the space Llorente's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.

Alvarez - Playing the CAM role, your job is to link the play between the midfielders, wingers and striker. Drop deep to pick up the ball, retain possession with the CM's, look for the wingers and fullbacks making runs out wide or cutting infield, and look for Llorente on the shoulder of the last defender. Push forward to win any second balls Llorente contests for, and on occasion dribble forward if it opens up ahead of you. Shoot if the opportunity arises.

Llorente - you will be expected to occupy the West Brom centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. If they double mark you, drop wide and swap with Mirallas to leave him unmarked and near the goal. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight.

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Alvarez and Llorente off, Flamini and Doumbia. Switch to 4-5-1 with Flamini an extra DM, absorb pressure and hit on the break. Doumbia's pace against tiring defences critical.
If drawing: Song and Llorente off, Valero and Doumbia on. Same system, Doumbia utilising his pace against tiring defenders and Valero providing more creativity in the middle of the park. Push for the win.
If losing: Carvalho and Song off, Valero and Doumbia on. Change to 4-1-3-2 with fullbacks pushing on to wingbacks, Valero the playmaker and Doumbia joining Llorente upfront. Push for goals.

Not that it matters much, but in my intro I obviously mean Alvarez and not Thauvin (who was sold yesterday)