Chelsea v SOUTHAMPTON

Starting Line Up:

Ospina
Santon Fazio Matip Asamoah
Biglia
Sissoko Benat
Menez Huntelaar Mertens

Substitutes: Heaton, Walker, Moore, Sandro, Diego, Valbuena, Cardozo

Captain: Fazio
Corners: Benat
Free Kicks: Mertens
Penalties: Huntelaar


Game Plan: For the away game against Chelsea, we are looking to play a very fluid 4-3-3 formation that looks to stifle our opposition in the centre and beat them on the wings with pace, precision and power. Our team is set up so that the 3 central midfielders can hold the middle of the pitch, with the centre backs covering, whilst our 2 full backs repeatedly bomb up the wing, allowing our wingers a free role on the pitch and stretching out the Chelsea back line.

Defence:

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 this Southampton line up because of the pace and stamina on display.

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 of Huntelaar, Mertens and Menez are still pressing the ball in this stage but the midfield trio of Sissoko, Benat and Biglia 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 Chelsea full backs and central midfielders whilst the defence looks to man mark and force Chelsea's attack out of the game. The intention with this style is to dictate where and when Chelsea can play the ball and to nullify their attacking intentions.

Attack:

Our attack for this game will be mainly aimed towards the flanks, with Chelsea's right flank being doubly targeted due to our attacking flair on the left hand side. However, we are wary of potential counter attacks in numbers; therefore, when Asamoah and Santon bomb forward, Biglia will drop in with Fazio and Matip to create a back 3 and our 2 central midfielders will stay deep to cover.

Our aim in attack is to get in behind the Chelsea defence where our pace and ability will see us create many chances. The main goal is to get the ball in to the box, either in the air or along the floor, so that Huntelaar can make a nuisance of himself and bag a goal for the team. Our secondary objective is to feed Menez or Mertens in behind so that they can take a shot at goal themselves as both are accomplished finishers.

Individual tactics:

Ospina: 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.

Fazio and Matip: It is important for one of the 2 centre backs to keep a close eye on Sanchez, forcing him out of the game, whilst the other covers runs from behind. We want to play a fairly deep line and both will need to be smart in their positioning so that they aren’t beaten for pace.

Santon and Asamoah: Will bomb forward at every opportunity to cause a plethora of problems for the defence. Will look to track back quickly and force Chelsea's wide men in to the congested centre of the pitch.

Biglia: A very defensive role today, covering the runs of the full backs by slotting in between our 2 centre backs and looking to hold position against the runs of Chelsea’s forwards and midfielders so that our centre backs can cover a wider area at the back.

Sissoko and Benat: Will be playing deeper roles today, being strong to break up play in the middle and looking to spray the ball out wide quickly and efficiently. In attack, they should be looking to hold the middle in case of a counter but, if necessary, one of them can bomb forward while the other holds.

Mertens and Menez: Given free roles to move across the defensive line as our full backs will control the bylines. They will be looking to get in behind the Chelsea defence and supply Huntelaar. In defence, they will be looking to track the runs of the opposition full backs.

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


Subsitutes:

If Winning:

80 minutes: Walker for Menez (Mertens if Menez is off): Walker moves to right back with Santon just ahead at RM in a 4-5-1 to provide extra cover.


If Losing/ Drawing:

60 minutes: Valbuena for Menez: Valbuena adds talent, pace and a direct attitude. He will look to take on the full back at any opportunity.

70 minutes: Diego for Sissoko: Diego will play more advanced, looking to unlock the defence with his superb passing range.


If Drawing: 80 minutes: Sandro for Biglia: Sandro adds a great engine and fresh legs to make sure our defence isn’t beaten late on.

Manchester United

Away to a strong Pompey side we go with a balanced 4-2-3-1. We will play a counter attacking game, defending deep, in numbers. Frustrate the opposition when they have possession by ensuring they can’t get near our goal, then break with pace and power going forward to catch them out.

We have picked a team that will be strong and disciplined in defence, and that has the ability to counter with great pace.

We will be rigid in defence, keeping a compact shape. Allow the opposition no space in the final third.

Going forward we will be direct, using the ability of our attacking players to run at the Pompey defence, to take them on and burst forward at pace.

-------------- G.Buffon
D.Alves – Pepe – Vertonghen – Filipe
---------- Khedira – Rakitic
J.Navas ---- R.Barkley ----- A.Robben
--------------- Wellbeck

Subs. Zieler, Manolas, Clichy, Schneiderlin, Oscar, Cazorla, Balotelli

Our game plan today is a simple one, defend deep in numbers and counter quickly. We also believe we have players that will cause great problems to Pompey at set pieces with the delivery available from Rakitic and Robben.

Defence.

Control the space in our own half. When they do have possession, ensure it’s in areas that can’t hurt us, high up the pitch.

Buffon leads from the back, organising the defence and commanding his box. The first point of defence however should be in in the opposition half, as when we lose possession we look to get quickly back into our shape, with the closest player looking to close down the ball. Once in our shape we then allow the opposition time on the ball.

As soon as the opposition fbs or cms, look to get on the ball in the middle third of the park Wellbeck looks to close them down. Wellbeck is picked today for his high work rate and pace.

At this stage our line is now deep, as we look to keep the side compact. And leave no gaps for the opposition. In this 4-2-3-1 shape there should be no space for the opposition to work in.

Force them to go long or take risks. We want to catch them out, winning possession in areas we can hurt them, and counter quickly.

The defence will ensure that as Pompey advance further up the park into our half, the line drops deeper so there is no space in behind. At this point, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1.

Khedira drops in between defence and midfield, sweeping in between the lines. His energy and reading will be best utilised in this position. Rakitic and Barkley in cm. This shape ensures that when one of our midfielders do press we will still always have 4 midfielders behind, to cover, particularly in the important central areas.

To ensure we are not caught out at the back, only one fb attacks at a time. The other remains in a back 3. In addition, Khedira will remain disciplined and sit in the dm role in front of them. This will ensure we have numbers in defence and are not stretched.

Our fb’s up against their quick wide forwards 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’ll be direct, looking to counter.

We’ll vary which area of the park we attack in, but generally we’ll look to get forward down the wings. Looking to get Robben on the ball as much as possible.

Generally direct going forward, in the opposition half we will always look to go forward and stretch the opposition where possible. Navas keeps the width on the right, allowing the tireless Alves to run inside him and beyond.

Robben has more freedom to find space in central areas. When we attack down the left Filipe is tasked with keeping the width. The pace of Navas & Robben will be a real asset down the wings and will help to stretch the opposition. This will create space in the centre of the park, for Rakitic and Barkley who offer a real goal threat.

Rakitic will orchestrate our play. We want him to be everywhere today, and get involved with everything.

Control the game. Khedira offers the defensive cover, he will help to drive us forward out of defence, and then stay deep when we attack. Barkley is the attacking minded of the trio, looking to get in position where he can support the wingers and Wellbeck, and finding gaps between the opposition midfield and defence to expose Pompey.

Wellbeck will always look to offer an option in behind. We want him to use his pace and power to tire the opposition, and drag them out of position so that the likes of Robben, Barkley and Navas can use their pace to expose those spaces.

Red card.
If we get a red card we switch to a 4-4-1 formation. Keeping the gameplan of hitting the opposition on the counter.

If a defender gets sent off, Barkley is the one to be replaced. Clichy to play at either rb/lb and Manolas to replace Barkley if either cb gets sent off.

If Barkley/Rakitic gets sent off, the midfield trio becomes a midfield two. If Khedira, Schneiderlin on for Barkley.

If Navas/Robben get sent off we bring on Oscar for Barkley. If Wellbeck gets sent off, we bring on Balotelli for Barkley.

Down to ten men in the second half we will look to keep things fresh following the red, and will look to make two of the following three switches, with the preferred options at the top:
Bring on Balotelli for Wellbeck.
Bring on Oscar for Navas in middle of second half. High work rate will be important.
Bring on Schneiderlin for Rakitic. Energy in important area, and someone who can grab a goal.

No red Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Cazorla for Barkley. Help us retain and control possession.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Oscar for Navas. Energy to help us keep tempo.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Balotelli for Wellbeck.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Balotelli for Barkley. Front two. Wellbeck plays slightly deeper of the two.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Cazorla for Navas. Get on the ball, and control possession.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Oscar for Khedira. Rakitic dm. Oscar am.

If drawing after 65 mins bring on Oscar for Barkley. Fresh legs and new spark.
If drawing after 75 mins Balotelli for Wellbeck.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Cazorla for Navas

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

ARSENAL VS LEICESTER CITY
Wilfred Zaha
Jerome Boateng
Joe Hart
Ben Foster
----------------------Martinez---------------------
---Lahm------Kompany----Laporte-----Kolarov
------------------------------------------------------
--------------Busquets-----Herrera----------
----------------------------------------------------
-------Reus----------Silva--------Ronaldo
-------------------------------------------------
----------------------Aguero--------------------
Subs
Thomas Vermaelan
Yaya Toure
Daley Blind
James Milner
Aaron Ramsey
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain
Jackson Martinez

--------------------------------------------------------
SUBS
--------------------------------------------------------
IF WINNING
70' - Reus > Milner - Freshen up wing and also more defensive solidity
Silva > Blind - Sits alongside Busquets with Herrera further forward.

80' Ronaldo > Ramsey - Blind LM, Ramsey cm (apply above also)

IF DRAWING
60' Herrera > Yaya Toure
70' Silva > Martinez - 4-4-2 (apply above also)
80' Busquets > Ramsey (apply above two also)

IF LOSING
60' Herrera > Yaya Toure, Silva > Martinez - 4-4-2
70' Busquets > Ramsey. Ramsey and Yaya two CMS
-----------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------
We must win this game. We feel Leicester are there for the taking therefore we will be positive in our play.
We line up in a familiar 4-2-3-1.
In today's game, we look to add more width and pace to our team. When needed we will sit in an absorb pressure pouncing on any opportunity to counter attack with or deadly trio up front.(madrid style) 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.

Generally we want to take the game to the opposition and look for that early goal, putting the opposition under pressure.

Martinez will be quick off his line for one on ones and crosses into the box. I want him to be vocal in his box maintaining communication with his centre halves. Comfortable with the ball at his feet he will play it both short to my centre backs and long to my attackers who look to break at speed.

Lahm and Kolarov 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 Laporte, 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 Laporte will stay close to each other not allowing the opposition to open up space. Laporte 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 Laporte does this covering the remaining space, he will be able to clear the second ball if it gets beyond Laporte.

Busquets and Herrera will be our two deepest central midfielders. As usual Busquets holds while Herrera plays box to box. Herrera uses his amazing energy to track down opposition in pressing while also making late runs intothe box. Busquets helps us tick over.

Silva - Sits in a free role between midfield and striker. Using his dribbling and vision will pick up possession and drive forward to play incisive passes. Will consistently pass and move to be in strong positions to effectively receive and distribute the ball, once he has done so he will use his strong dribbling abilities to hold possession and enable team mates to forge attacking runs beyond him then getting his head up to read these runs push forwards and play the decisive pass into attacking positions.

Ronaldo + Reus: Both quick, direct, tricky and strong, they'll pull the opposition defence all over the place. They are both creative playmakers as well as wingers and will look to play balls in to Aguero's feet for the one-two, but they're also quick and have great energy so can get round the back of the WBA defence and drill in low balls and cutbacks, or they can drive at the defence and cause them problems. They'll be allowed to switch at will.

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.

ARSENAL VS LIVERPOOL
Wilfred Zaha
Jerome Boateng
Joe Hart
Ben Foster
--------------------Martinez
Lahm-----Kompany---Vermaelan----Gibbs
-----------------------------------------------
------------Busquets---Ramsey-------------
-----------------------------------------------
-Reus----------YayaToure--------Ronaldo
----------------------------------------------
------------------Aguero--------------------

Subs:
Aymeric Laporte
Ander Herrera
Daley Blind
James Milner
David Silva
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain
Jackson Martinez
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Subs:
IF WINNING 45'
Marco Reus > James Milner
Absolutely essential that we hold onto the lead.

65'
Apply above.
Ramsey > Blind
Well diciplined and structured midfield

75'
Apply all above.
Aguero> Martinez. Help hold the ball up.

IF DRAWING 60'
Ramsey > Silva - Yaya goes deeper and Silva AM.

75'
Aguero > Martinez
Reus > Oxlade Chamberlain
Different players, might unlock their defence

IF LOSING 45'
Ramsey > Silva
Yaya deeper
4-2-3-1 Silva AM

60'
Apply above

70'
Apply above. Busquets > Martinez. 4-4-2.

80'
Vermaelan > Chamberlain
3-5-2
Reus-------OX----Yaya----Ronaldo
------------------Silva
--------------Martinez----Aguero

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

The thinking behind this week's team selection is that I feel Liverpool have a very quick and pacey team with players who like to pass the ball quick. Therefore I have tried to field a team which has a lot of energy and pace, especially in midfield, in order to counter their threat and keep up with the when they have the ball. The most noticeable change in order to achieve this was the inclusion of Ramsey instead of Silva with Yaya pushed further up the field.

We also look to win the midfield battle with an extra man in there with Liverpool usually having two up top, this will put us at an advantage especially with the quality of players that we have.

When we don't have the ball, I want my team to be diciplined with Yaya going deeper into midfield, the back four defending the six yard box, and the wingers taking a position up near the half way line. That will be our default position. This will enable the wingers to have a big enough head start to make the attack into a goal.

http://sharemytactics.com/25078/

I really feel their is an opportunity to get at the Pompey defence. I feel they have a bit of shakyness in it. Especially at LB & CB, therefore it is a great opportunity for Reus to get his season under way and torment their LB.. I feel we can dismantle their defence with power and pace, which is another reason why I included Ramsey and pushed Yaya forward, not to mention Aguero who loves dragging people all over the show.

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.

Vermaelan and Kompany, 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. Vermaelan and Kompany will stay close to each other not allowing the opposition to open up space. Kompany 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 Vermaelan stays in position when Kompany does this covering the remaining space, he will be able to clear the second ball if it gets beyond Kompany.

We play with a trio in midfield today. I want them all behind the ball when defending and only one of Ramsey/Yaya going forward when attacking. As usual Busquets will be the official defensive midfielder. Ramsey uses his amazing energy to track down opposition in pressing while also making late runs in to the box. Busquets helps us tick over. Yaya Toure looks to use his presence and strength. I want him to intimidate the opposition and help us win the midfield battle.

When we have the ball we look to get it forward as quick as possible to Ronaldo/Reus and look to counter attack and get 1v1 vs their defence. Both have free roles. Occasionally they may come deep to create more options. I don’t want them up their all day stuck like statues.

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.

ASTON VILLA

4-2-3-1

_______________________Navas______________________
Zabaleta________Mertesacker___Koscielny_________Shaw
_______________Fernandinho_____Kroos_______________
Koke__________________Kagawa___________________Son
______________________Sturridge_____________________
SUBS: Begovic, Toprak, Coleman, Gustavo, Verratti, Vela, 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 Kagawa and Koke will drop back to help, Son stays up as the out ball and Sturridge prepared for anything lumped up to him. Team must attempt to block shots at all times. Deep defensive line. * When defending we will play two banks of four and be compact leaving little space in between the lines. So when defending we will go into this mode:

Koke - Fernandinho - Kroos - Kagawa
Sturridge - Son

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scored the goal(s) to get all three points / to win the tie ONLY AFTER the Destro change:
Whatever minute: Sturridge OFF Toprak ON
Whatever minute: Kagawa OFF Vela ON
They’re gonna pen us back whether we like it or not, so we will go 5-4-1 with Toprak slotting into a back 5. Koke will come into the centre along with Kroos with Vela right and Son left, Destro up front. Son 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.

-------------------- De Gea -------------
Ivanovic --- Ramos --- Dante -- Coentrao

----------- De Rossi ---- Tiago ------------
Schurrle -------- E.Hazard ------ F.Ribery
----------------- R.Van Persie -----------------

Subs : Caballero, Nagatamo, Bertrand, Fletcher, Wilshere, Bacca, Kane
-----------------
Wilshere > Tiago – 60th min – Wilshere will provide fresh spark and energy looking to support the midfield and getting the ball into feet.

Bacca > RVP - 75th minute - A new threat up front I want Bacca to bully their tiring defence looking to create chances.
----------------------
The outline:
An important game today as we look to maintain our good form and compete with our rivals.

We must from the outset look to present a physical and dominant approach looking to incite fear into the opposition thus putting them off their game.

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. Ramos, Ivanovic and Dante must dominate from the outset and their experience should come to the fore. In midfield De Rossi and Tiago must maintain the pressure and look to disrupt the play.

Attacking wise I want us to stretch them as much as possible down the flanks with Schurrle and Ribery very direct and the FB’s giving them real support on the outside. Hazard is the go to man in terms of making things happen, I want others making runs off him whilst this still ensures we can counter with pace when we retrieve the ball.

I want us to pose a real threat with set-pieces with the CB's up from the back looking to whip the ball into the box with real pace so we can use our height and physicality to engineer a goal.
-----------------
Individual tactics:

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

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

De Rossi and Tiago add force and bite to our midfield, De Rossi is the powerhouse 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. Tiago partners as he has great experience in playing in a well organised and compact system, very experienced and will run his socks off. I want him getting stuck in so we can retrieve the ball back as quickly as possible and start our own attacks.

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. 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 - RVP
FK's/corners - Hazard/ Luiz
Pens - RVP

-----------------------Cech
Piszczek------Cahill--------Chiellini-----Bernat
----------- Clasie--------Schwein
Di Maria------------Eriksen---------------Lavezzi
-----------------------Costa

Subs: Cesar, Veltman, Schmelzer, Carroll, Willian, Remy

GAME PLAN

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

Our attacking play will be fast and neat. Our two defensive midfielders will be breaking up play, holding on to the ball and then setting our wingers free. This means we want to play with plenty of pace. Out of our 2 wingers Lavezzi is our fastest and we are likely to get some space in this area. Eriksen is playing central today so he should be able to make plenty of runs. This shows that we have the capability of pulling of counter attacking football successfully. Our wingers and number 10 shall be integrating with each other’s play and therefore we will have plenty of options during our attacks. All of our attackers will be looking to work their way into space using physical and skilful football. Our full backs will also be there during attacks so our wingers can cut inside more as well.

POSITIONAL TACTICS

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

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

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

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

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

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

I would like Eriksen, Di Maria and Lavezzi to intersect and change positions.

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

SUBS

65th Min – Willian for Eriksen – Willian (RW), Di Maria (AM)

Captain: Schwein
Vice: Cech
FK: Di Maria
PK: Di Maria
CK: Di Maria

----------------------------Hugo Lloris
Carvajal----Mangala-------Hummels-------Marcelo
-------------Javi Martinez------Luka Modric
-Juan Cuadrado------Mario Gotze--------Julian Draxler
----------------------------Lewandowski

Subs: Aurier, Lukaku, Fernando, Hamsik, Coutinho, Chambers, Kovacic

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

_____________________________

We go again 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.

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. Hummels and Mangala must be on hand to rescue any mistakes.

Hummels and Mangala will be playing man to man marking, as we feel they are good enough to fend for themselves, up against what we assume will be a lone RVP. Mandala 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 will lead our backline and he goes for the high balls, and goes for the second ball, as his lack of pace may be a problem. Mangala is notably quicker so goes for the first ball, whilst Hummles covers his ass.

Carvajal and Marcelo are given license to burn the wings, seeing as we want Draxler 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.

Draxler 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. Draxler 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.

__________________________________________

Subs:

If Drawing 60mins:

Lukaku > Cuadrado, 4-4-2, Lukaku partners Lew up top, with Draxler left and Gotze right

If winning 60mins:

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

----------------------------Lloris
Carvajal-------Mangala-------Hummels-------Adriano
-------------Javi Martinez------Fernando
-Juan Cuadrado------Luka Modric-----Mario Gotze
----------------------------Lewandowski

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

-----------------Kovacic--------Modric
------------------------Mario Gotze
----------------------------Draxler
------------Lewandowski------Lukaku

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

Any defenders get sent off, Chambers > Cuadrado
Any midfielders, we make no changes
Any attackers, Lukaku comes on for Cuadrado and we go narrow
----------------------------------------------------------------------

comment by kamran (U1022)
posted 19 minutes ago
Swansea tactics

---------------------------Diego Alves--------------------------
Caceres----------Rami-------------Albiol------------Maxwell
-------------Illarramendi-----------Motta------------------
-----------------------------Fellaini-------------------------
--Salah---------------------------------------------Cerci-----
----------------------------Negredo----------------------

Subs: Baumann, Contento, Papadopoulos. Yedlin, Ince, Michu, Lanzini,

General: Power game. We confident of getting a result with our tactics and we are going to focus mainly on the midfield area which we know we can out-muscle and overrun the Villa midfield especially as they have some key men out. We HAVE to keep the tempo high when we attack and target the CB's as we know we have the pace and skill to beat them and score. We do respect Villa but on the field, we shouldn't give them that respect and just press them as a unit as we know that if we stifle their midfield, they will play long balls to Sturridge/whoever that we will gobble up all day. We can't play posession football and have to be direct in terms of direction and keep the ball moving forwards with our pacey attack and drive at their CB's. We have to make most of the free-kicks and make sure we try and target Fellaini and CBs' to score from set-pieces. We play fast and furious and off the ball, we are energetic and bully-ish. We have to be ruthless.

Defence
I went for an experience defence that can handle the trickery of their forwards and have the know-how to fend them off. Both full-backs are not going to be attacking that much as we are aware of their full-backs and hope that they commit so we can counter and hit their spaces. Both full-backs will have cover in our defensive midfielders and the wingers from time to time and whoever is closest. The CB's will be covering one another and take on any attacker in the air. We can't play too deep or too high. The keeper will be on his toes and always look to go down late 1 v1. He has to be aggressive when on corners and take out anyone in the process.

Midfield
This area is key and we have to dominate with our power and chase and I've done that with Motta and Irra on defensive duty and stifle their midfield and intercept for a quick attack. Important that we go in strong and in numbers so they will have to look for plan B. Fellaini has a different role where he will play just high than the other two but defensively he will be pressing and pressing hard alongside the wingers and Negredo. Fellaini to help the attack and has a free role to see fit when we need to defend and attack. Salah and Cerci to stay wide at first but when we attack to drft in and target the CB's with Negredo moving wide to create space or finding a gap. Our pace in the attacking side will cause problems for sure and I don't think their CB's can handle that. We press that midfield and give them no space whatsoever and no time to dictate. We are at home and we have to be the aggressors and show them that we will beat you and outmuscle and out run you in all areas.

Forward
So important that Negredo is on the move when we are attacking in good areas otherwise it will bne easy to mark him with 2/3 players. Ife he darts wide and creates a gap and sacrifices himself for someone to score, then that we can do. We do need him to be playing off the last striker, Inzaghi style and expect to be fed and just go for goal. Negredo will be supported well with Fellaini and expect him to win a header and he has to be first to respond and be aware.

RED CARD scenario
If a defender/keeper gets red card then their respective sub will come on as LB for LB etc
Motta will unfortunately be the player to make way.

If Motta is red carded, we continue the same way but Fellaini taking his role. Same tactics though but more work for our central midfield to compensate.

If Salah/Cerci are red carded, then we still play the same way but have Fellaini target the carded side.

If Negredo is red carded then Fellaini moves further forward and we target him so he can flick on and the wingers play off him.

Subs: Yedlin for Caceres 75mins. Same role

Michu for Fellaini 80mins. Michu to be more attacking and play as an AM.

HULL CITY vs Aston Villa

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

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

Walcott----------Witsel--------Marchisio--------Lucas Moura

-------------------------James Rodriguez-----------------------

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

subs: Forster, Srna, De Jong, Markovic, Rossi

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.

Simone Scuffet: very intelligent 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, Juanfran 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 Juanfran 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 Witsel and Marchisio give us extra solidity in front of the defence, as ever, but they also serve a higher purpose in that they will force Pompey'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 Witsel and Marchisio 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, James and Aubameyang. Aubameyang 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 Portsmouth on the counter attack. James 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 Aubameyang will open up through ball opportunities for James and he has the skill to execute these chances. Walcott and Lucas Moura 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: Markovic for Lucas Moura 70 minutes, straight swap.

if winning after 80 minutes: NDJ for James Rodriguez, NDJ to play as the holding player, with Witsel and Marchisio ahead, very disciplined player who will snuff out any opportunites that Villa look to create, we will also look to go more direct and risk free in our attacking player, long balls into the channels for Aubameyang to chase, look to play down time as much as possible.

Captain: Mehdi Benatia
Freekicks: James Rodriguez
Pens: James Rodriguez
Corners: Marchisio

Above tactics should be vs Portsmouth not Villa

V Arsenal

-----------------------Neuer-----------------------
Debuchy------Varane------Bonucci------Ricardo
------------------------Pirlo------------------------
-------------Iturraspe------A.Vidal(c)------------
Sanchez-----------------------------------Neymar
----------------------Benzema---------------------

Krul, Sciglio, Rabiot, Januzaj, Depay, Mirallas, Chicarito

Play the same way against Arsenal, we have never lost to Robin and not about to start, go in full of confidence with a team there to shut them down and attack.

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.

Varane and Bonucci 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. Bonucci 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 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.

Pirlo is my playmaker, he controls the game with his, at time simplistict passing, not the quickest player Pirlo leaves that sort of exertion to his youthful midfield partners Arturo Vidal and Iturraspe. Instead, patrolling an area not much more extensive than the centre circle, he sits in front of his back four, firing out quarterback-type passes, occasionally ambling forward to take a free-kick. Although not lightning quick he is very difficult to get the ball from. At times he just takes a touch and makes the opposition look very silly. This gives him the time to ping the passes about with time and ease. His style will frustrate the opposition they will begin to fly in with rash tackles which he will merely walk away from, with ball at feet.

Iturraspe sits just in front of him patrolling the CM allowing Vidal more freedom to venture forward, he stops there flow between midfield and attack, always watchful for the AM and when they come forward he will look to intercept any through balls or look to stop his runs forward. Even when we attack he is always mindful of the players movement and ready to act quickly if they break forward. Once the ball is won simple balls to those around him.. They sit as a threewith Vidal taking care of the other CM, however, Vidal is to burst forward to assist Benzema when possible. His goal record for a CM is fantastic and can score from varous angles/ranges, he is a very dynamic player with great stamina, one who never gives up. He thrives with Iturraspe who has played alot of unexpected games in the midfield and they will be no pushovers.

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. With Benzema as the middle man all three will drive at the Arsenal defence

Benzema goes up top two good feet, 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 Vidal also supporting we are a huge goal threat to anyone. I want quick football always looking for each other.

Captain:- Vidal
Penalties:- Sanchez
Free kicks:- Pirlo/neymar
Corners:- Wingers

Subs:-
Losing/drawing
70 Mins - Mirallas on for Pirlo, he goes LW, Neymar to No.10
80 Mins - Hernandez for Benzema, always good for a goal
85 Mins - Januzaj for Debuchy 3412 Sanchez up top with Hernandez, really go for it(Losing only)

Winning:-
80 Mins - Mirallas for Neymar, will work hard to track back
85 Mins - Hernandez for Benzema, run down every ball in the final third to force them back

Comment deleted by Article Creator

Leicester

-------------------Casillas-------------------
Richards-----D.Vrij----Vlaar-----L.Baines
-----------Delph---Ramires---Barry-----------
Lacazette-------------------------Shaawary
-------------------DiNatale-------------------

Karius, Hutton, Rodwell, Meljarejo, Sneijder, Ben Yedder, Weimann

Back 4 is getting a settled feel about it now with the two English fullbacks providing decent defensive attributes and excellent attacking play. Sit as a four when they attack and get the wingers to the outside and away from the danger area. Both have pace so will keep up with quick wingers, Attacking wise one at a time get up and support there winger, drive outside looking for a pass to latch onto and whip in a cross, if they dont receive the ball then look to take the Arsenal fullback away from our wingers freeing up space for them to move into. De Vrij and Vlaar are a solid pairing with a great understanding, De Vrij picks up the CF whilst Captain Vlaar sits a step off him just in case he loses his man. Sit tight together and make it as difficult as possible for the CF, Vlaar up for corners, the other 3 sit back, when Baines goes to take a free kick, Vlaar goes up, Delph sits in as cover.

The midfield trio we have picked to day are out there to try and nulify the threat from the middle of the park, all gritty players who will hunt the players down, we have players to come on so 100% is required. Barry picks up the AM and sits on him the whole game, we cant afford to allow them to dictate play at the their leisure as we will be in trouble, so Ramires and Delph in beside him to stop this. Delph watches the next most attacking midfielder whereas Ramires will watch for the DM moving forward, I want all three to be on their game and create a wall that is difficult to break down. Once the ball is won then get it out to the wingers where we can create problems for them, Delph/Ramires will move up to support Di Natale when possible

Lacazette and Shaawary are both quick and nimble, good feet and will look to drive at the fullbacks with support from the fullbacks, when one is attacking I want the other in a more central position to support Di Natale as a SS as no point staying out wide, use thwe fullbacks either as an outlet to pass the ball down the line to cut in or indeed use the other winger/Delph/Di Natale for a touch and go move and drive into the box looking to go for goal. Instructiions are for both sides.

Di Natale may be getting on a bit buit still knows where the back of the net is, he gets into fantastic positions so our other players will look to seek him out and set it up for him, either balls over the top of the CBs for him to chase down or look to split the cbs for him to get in on goal.

Captain - Vlaar
Pens CF
FreeKicks - Shaawary
Corners Wingers

Subs
Sneijder for Delph go to AM - 70 Mins
Ben Yedder for Di Natale on 75 Mins


Same tactics subs for Week 11 tactics but switch Jorginho in for Ramires to cover his injury

Manchester United

Balanced 4-2-3-1. We’ve gone for a hard working side, one that we feel can put real pressure on this Liverpool side and not allow them to play how they want. We’ve gone for a team with pace in attack, that will really look to stretch the opposition.

Tevez plays in the number 10 role today, looking to take advantage of Liverpool’s cm injuries. We want him getting on the ball in between their defence and midfield. Getting in dangerous positions in the final third. With a more attacking no.10 Schneiderlin steps in to the side to offer greater defensive cover.

Wellbeck up top keeps his place following an impressive game last week.

------------ G.Buffon
D.Alves – Pepe – Vertonghen – Filipe
------ Khedira – Schneiderlin
J.Navas ---- Tevez ----- A.Robben
------------ Wellbeck

Subs. Zieler, Manolas, Telles, Vilhena, Oscar, Bellarabi, Dzeko

Building on a strong defence, we play with plenty of width, seeking to stretch the opposition, and attack down the wings. Khedira and Morgan offer a solid, powerful base to our build up play in midfield. Two defensively strong players who can also contribute going forward. One will always sit and offer protection in front of the back four.

We attack with a high tempo, using the pace we having going forward. We will be direct in our attacking play in the opposition half, this coupled with our width will stretch the opposition. We seek to create spaces and gaps in the oppositions midfield, and defence allowing us to get Tevez in dangerous areas in the opposition third.

The formation is rigid in defence, fluid in attack. On each side one fb/wg keeps the width, the other has license to come inside. Tevez and one cm will always be seeking to link up with the wide players. Tevez is key to our attacking play, looking for fast combination layoffs.

With two banks of four, we will have a solid defence to build upon. Short passes out from defence, a cm will look to pick up the ball and paly it out wide, preferably to the full back getting forward. In the middle of the park we look to keep the ball on the deck passing in triangles, triangles that are directed out wide, as we look to shift the ball wider as play progresses.

Attacking movement in the final third is key. One of the fb or wg running inside, the other going down the line. This ensures we have at least one dummy run, creating space and pulling Liverpool defenders out of position. Coming inside we look to whip the ball in behind the opposition defence, or play a cute through ball. When going wide, if possible get to the by line at the 18 yard box, from there you have a greater chance of finding Wellbeck/Tevez/opposite wg or Khedira/Schneiderlin at edge.


Defence.

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

The first point of defence should be in in the opposition half, as we look to play a high pressing game as soon as the opposition enter the middle third of the pitch. Getting back in numbers to our compact formation, and then pressing from this shape.

Force them to go long or take risks. We want to catch them out, winning possession in areas we can hurt them.

As soon as they move the ball out of the first third, to the middle section of the park we want to press.
Defending in a 4-5-1 shape at this point, Tevez drops deeper, leaving Wellbeck as the lone forward. The winger on the opposite flank comes in narrow, ensuring there is no space in the centre.

When there dm’s come deep to get the ball, Tevez and Wellbeck look to close them down.

Although we press high up the park, the defence will ensure that as Pool advance further up the park, the line drops deep so there is no space in behind. As Pool advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-5-1

Khedira and Schneiderlin drop slightly deeper than the wide men, with Tevez in line with the wide men. This allows one cm to press, and the other to sweep between the lines. Ensuring there is no space between our defence and attack.

We always want at least one more defender than Pool has attacker. If drawing or winning, only one fb forward at a time.

In our half, our fb’s up against their quick wide forwards 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

Passing simple in our own third. If we go long we look for Wellbeck down the channels, we have pace out wide and up front, and so route one is an option if we look to counter quickly.

In the opposition half we will always look to be direct, go forward and stretch the opposition where possible.

Tevez will play his natural game as the number 10. Getting involved in all areas of the park. Freedom to be at his best. The pace of our attack will stretch the opposition, this coupled with Pool’s injuries, will create the perfect game for Tevez to flourish.

Wellbeck will be his hardworking self, in possession and without it. Look to get in behind the opposition defence using his pace, this will stretch the opposition if nothing else.

Subs.

If winning after 65 mins bring on Oscar for Wellbeck. Oscar in AM, Tevez CF.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Bellarabi for Navas. Fresh pace in an important area.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Dzeko for Tevez. Hold up ball, as we look to break quickly.

If drawing after 70 mins bring on Oscar for Wellbeck. Tevez cf.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Bellarabi for Navas
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Telles for Filipe. More attacking lb.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Oscar for Schneiderlin. Cm role.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Bellarabi for Wellbeck. Fresh pace, playing in a striker role with Tevez.4-4-2.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Dzeko for Navas. Bellarabi goes right.

-------------------------Valdes
Clyne-------Jagielka-------Juan-------Ansaldi
-----------------Medel-------Herrera
Salvio----------------Jovetic---------------Payet
-----------------------Berahino
Subs
Mignolet, Byram, Mustafi, Garcia, Sahin, Tadic, Valencia

Tactics
A Defensively minded 4-2-3-1, looking to frustrate the opposition and break quickly on the counter using the pace from out wide and taking advantage of any set pieces we get in attacking areas.

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 catch.

Full Backs
Their primary job will be to defend today, so they should look to stay tightly to their centre back, not let any balls be played between them, only going wide when a cross is looking to be put in. When on the ball, look to make a sensible pass to one of the wingers.

Centre Backs
Jags will compete for any aerial balls, with Juan looking to collect the 2nd ball, when the ball is being played on the floor, the onus is on keeping their shape with the full backs watching out for the quick one touch football and blocking the ball with every legal part of their body. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving you space to come out with the ball, go and take that chance, if not, just look to play it simple to a man in space and keep possesion.

Central Midfielders
When on the ball, they should be looking to get the ball out wide to launch the quick counters, or play it into the feet of Valencia. When defending, they will stay in the centre of the pitch, sitting in front of the centre backs, not allowing themselves to get dragged out of that area, looking to cut the space in the final third and really frustrate the opposition.

Attacking Midfielder
Jovetic should be looking to make himself available for a pass as much as possible, looking to get on the ball and run at the oppositions defence. He should also look to be making late runs into the box as an attacking option. When defending, he should be looking to occupy their DM, stop him being an out ball for them.


Wingers
From an attacking standpoint their job is to simply get up and down the pitch working with other attackers to launch the counter attacks, this means using their pace to either run infield and create chances for themselves, or sticking out wide and getting a cross in for the others. When defending, they will play just infront and wider of the full backs, essentially playing a back 6 with the aim of keeping their full backs playing infront of them and not giving them many chances to get crosses in.

Striker
Stay upfront all game, there will be periods of time when he will be isolated but should always be on his toes always around the last defender or the halfway line, preparing for a counter attack, if he gets the ball, his job will be to take on defenders and make a bit of space for himself or keep 2 defenders occupied to allow the attacking 3 to get up with him.

Set Pieces
Corners - Payet takes the corners, the 2 CB's go into the box, the full backs stay back to prevent counters, the CB's, Berahino and Jovetic work in a group to make little blacks and cross-runs to lose a marker so one can attack the ball, Medel looks to block the keepers movement around the 6 yard box, Herrera and Salvio take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.

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

Penalties - Berahino is the designated taker.

Subs

If Winning
70 mins - Garcia for Jovetic - slots in between the 2 CMs

80 mins - Tadic and Sahin for Salvio and Herrera - Fresh legs and renewed pace for counter attacks against tired defenders aswell as the element of time wasting.

If Losing
75 mins - Sahin for Medel - A narrow 4-2-2-2 with balls being launched up to the 2 upfront.

82 mins - Byram and Valencia for Ansaldi and Salvio - Extra attacking impetus

----------------Szczęsny
Ginter---Subotic---Godin---Siquera
--------Strootman----Pjanic
Callejon---------Mata---------Nasri
------------------Suarez
Subs
Perin, Rojo, Sakho, Henderson, Muniain, Iturbe, Higuain

Tactical Overview
The aim of the 4-2-3-1 today is for the full backs to defend first, the 2 CMs to sit infront of the back 4 and get the ball out quickly for quick transitions to attack, and the front 4 to drift around and draw their markers out of poisition so 1 of the others can exploit that space.

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

Defensively the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly, Limiting space for balls to be played between them, but then to push the opposition winger out as wide as possible to limit their opportunity to get a good cross in.

 When on the ball they should look to play it upfield to whichever player in occupying their side of the pitch.

Centre Backs

Godin will compete with the striker for the aerial balls played up to him, with Subo looking to win the 2nd ball. When the ball is on the floor, Godin will be the defender who looks to meet the striker looking to stifle his space and rush his decisions, with Subo 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, but with the knowledge that he has to get back quickly to aid the defensive display, Strootman will be playing more of a holding role today, sitting back to limit the space on advancing playmakers, but then when he gets on the ball, should be looking to release it quickly to one of he front 4.





Wingers


When they are off the ball, the emphasis for both wingers will be to drift around combining with the other attackers to get little areas of space to take advantage of the quick transitions from defence to attack. then when they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with Mata and Suarez, as defenders will be extra cautious to not make a rash tackle and give away a free kick or penalty. When the opposite winger has the ball, the winger without the ball should look to find space between the CB and full back to add an extra body for any crosses or capitalise on any defensive errors.
 When defending, they should be blocking the passing lines to 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 Callejon work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so one can attack the ball, Nasri looks to annoy the opposition keeper looking to limit his ability to move around the 6 yard box. Strootman 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.
 Parejo slots into a deeper role.




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



If Losing



71 Mins - Rojo + Higuain for Ginter + Siquera - 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 - Muniain for Nasri - a more direct option.

If Drawing
70 Mins - Henderson for Strootman
76 Mins - Rojo for Siquera
80 Mins - Iturbe for Mata - Nasri AM, Iturbe LW

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

EVERTON v Newcastle

Injuries: William Carvalho, Marco Van Ginkel, Kasper Schmeichel, Vitorino Antunes

------------------Pantilimon
Manquillo - Skrtel - Ogbonna - Criscito
-----------------Song - Inler
----------Hulk - Firmino - Bernard
--------------------Llorente

Subs: Blackman, Inigo Martinez, Van Aanholt, Hernanes, Thauvin, Ayew, Doumbia

Newcastle bring a very skillful side to Goodison today but it's about time we improved our home form, starting today. Newcastle may be a skillful side but they lack the physical element going forward which will allow our defenders and DM's to physically get stuck into their attackers, bully them off the ball and force them into mistakes. When we have the ball I want us to be more direct, utilise our combination of pace, power and skill going forward to cause Newcastle's defence problems and go into the game under no pressure, push for the win but enjoy yourselves. Newcastle always play 4-2-3-1 so we're going man for man today and pushing them all the way.

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

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

Manquillo/Criscito - Both of you to force Newcastle's wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Hulk/Bernard 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 Firmino. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Song/Inler - Song the enforcer in midfield, assist the CB's in dealing with the Newcastle attack, if they play an AM stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. If they have a second striker who drops off ensure you're on top of him too. Be first to any loose balls and in possession look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out. Inler is the passer, also able to assist at DM but with more creativity, link the play between defence and attack, and be prepared to help out the fullbacks in dealing with the Newcastle wingers, if they are able to cut inside we may be outnumbered. Remain composed throughout.

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

Hulk/Bernard - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Newcastle 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 Firmino, 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 Newcastle centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. If they double mark you, drop wide and swap with Hulk 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. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind.

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Firmino, Hulk and Llorente off, Hernanes, Thauvin and Doumbia on. Hernanes partners Song and Inler in a midfield three, switch to 4-5-1 with Thauvin RM and Bernard LM. Doumbia the lone striker with the pace to hang on the last defender/halfway line to punish them on the break.

If drawing: Hulk and Llorente off, Thauvin and Doumbia on. Same system, big injection of pace against the tiring Newcastle defence. Look to get the winner without overcommitting.

If losing: Hulk and Song off, Thauvin and Doumbia on. Switch from 4-2-3-1 to 4-1-3-2 with attacking fullbacks, Inler the sole DM spraying passes, Thauvin to RW, Doumbia with Llorente upfront. Manquillo and Antunes will be overlapping so utilise them and their runs. Bombard Newcastle's defence and get crosses into the area. Push for goals.

Man City v SOUTHAMPTON

Line Up:

Ospina
Srna Matip Lombaerts Asamoah
Biglia
Diego Benat
Sam Muriel Mertens

Substitutes: Kitanov, Santon, Insua, Sandro, Sissoko, Valbuena, Kiessling

Captain: Biglia
Free Kicks: Mertens
Corners: Diego
Penalties: Kiessling

Game Plan:

We will be looking to play as fluidly as possible, with our players roaming all over the pitch and others filling in their positions, in order to nullify the effects of any high pressing game. We will be looking to play the ball out from the back and keep it with short, simple passing and lots of movement in to space. By doing this, we will be looking to coerce City in to pushing forward to regain possession where we can exploit holes in their formation and hit them with the pace we have up front. Our team sheet today is designed to have maximum effect whilst on the ball – with plenty of very good possession football players – with three pacey forwards to cause trouble to the City defence.

Defence:

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 this Southampton line up because of the pace and stamina on display.

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 of Muriel, Sam and Mertens are still pressing the ball in this stage but the midfield trio of Diego, Benat and Biglia 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 City full backs and central midfielders whilst the defence looks to man mark and force Citys attack out of the game. The intention with this style is to dictate where and when City can play the ball and to nullify their attacking intentions.

Attack:

Our attack will focus on forcing City in to making gaps in their own defence in their efforts to regain the ball. From here, we have Mertens, Sam and Muriel, all very fast players, who will be looking to run in behind the defence. Once there, they will not be caught. Diego, Biglia and Benat will be looking to feed through balls in between the City defenders at every opportunity and Mertens, Sam and Muriel will be given free roles to roam across City’s back line as they see fit. Asamoah and Srna will be looking to bomb forward in support as much as possible and, as such, Biglia and – on occasion – Benat will drop deeper so that our centre backs can sit a little wider and cover the flanks.

Individual Tactics:

Ospina: 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.

Lombaerts and Matip: It is important for one of the 2 centre backs to keep a close eye on City’s forward, forcing him out of the game, whilst the other covers runs from behind. We want to play a fairly deep line and both will need to be smart in their positioning so that they aren’t beaten for pace.

Srna and Asamoah: Will bomb forward at every opportunity to cause a plethora of problems for the defence. Will look to track back quickly and force City's wide men in to the congested centre of the pitch.

Biglia: A fairlydefensive role today, covering the runs of the full backs by slotting in between our 2 centre backs and looking to hold position against the runs of City’s forwards and midfielders so that our centre backs can cover a wider area at the back.

Diego and Benat: Will be strong to break up play in the middle and looking to keep hold of the ball and move it around efficiently. In attack, they should be looking to hold the middle in case of a counter but, if necessary, one of them can bomb forward while the other holds. Always looking to feed the ball through to our forwards in space.

Mertens and Sam: Given free roles to move across the defensive line as our full backs will control the bylines. They will be looking to get in behind the City defence and supply Muriel. In defence, they will be looking to track the runs of the opposition full backs.

Muriel: Also given a free role. He will be looking to patrol the City line but will drop back when necessary in order to receive the ball and play in one of our wingers. He will be expected to contribute to the defensive effort as much as everyone else.


Substitutes:

If Winning:

70 minutes:

Sissoko for Diego – Sissoko adds more defensive bite to our line up whilst not impacting the ability of our possession play.

75 minutes:

Sandro for Biglia – Sandro sits deeper and adds fresh legs to the midfield.

80 minutes:

Santon for Benat – Asamoah switches to midfield to become a part of the solid 3. Santon to left back.


If losing/drawing:

70 minutes:

Kiessling for Muriel – Kiessling will be looking to play as a target man and make a nuisance of himself. Good on the ball so will look to feed in others.

75 minutes:

Valbuena for Sam – Valbuena adds fresh legs and will look to be direct – charging at the City defence on every occasion.

80 minutes:

Only if drawing

Sissoko for Diego – Sissoko will sit deeper with Biglia and will look to break up play. We will be looking to protect the point from here.

Brum vs Wolves

-----------------------Cech
Piszczek------Cahill--------Chiellini-----Bernat
----------- Bender--------Clasie
Di Maria------------Eriksen---------------Willian
---------------------Remy

Subs: Cesar, Veltman, Schmelzer, Carrick, Kuba, Soldado, Arbeloa

GAME PLAN

We will be in their faces from the off. We want to control the direction of this game so we wont counter attack in this game for once. We will be looking to put in as many goals as we possibly can. We can’t take any chances against this wolves team. We will look to use the pace of our wingers to destroy the wolves defence. I want us to keep the ball on the ground and bring their defence to us. This will allow us to penetrate them with force. Look for the holes and we should have too much for them.

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

Our attacking play will be fast and neat. Our two defensive midfielders will be breaking up play, holding on to the ball and then setting our wingers free. This means we want to play with plenty of pace. Out of our 2 wingers Willain is our fastest and we are likely to get some space in this area. Eriksen is playing central today so he should be able to make plenty of runs. This shows that we have the capability of pulling of counter attacking football successfully. Our wingers and number 10 shall be integrating with each other’s play and therefore we will have plenty of options during our attacks. All of our attackers will be looking to work their way into space using physical and skilful football. Our full backs will also be there during attacks so our wingers can cut inside more as well.

POSITIONAL TACTICS

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

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

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

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

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

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

I would like Eriksen, Di Maria and Willian to intersect and change positions.

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

SUBS

60th Min – Kuba for Eriksen (Swap positions with Di Maria)
70th Min – Soldado for Remy

Captain: Schwein
Vice: Cech
FK: Di Maria
PK: Di Maria
CK: Di Maria

vs United

—————————--——Courtois
Howedes————Nkoulou————Terry———Azpilicueta
————————-———Kondogbia
————Nainngolan—————————Montolivo
———————————Griezzman
———-——Lamela—————--———Origi

Subs: Hassen, Moreno, Tielemans, Turan, Rooney, Bony, Cavani

Captain: John Terry
Free Kicks: Antoine Griezzman/Erik Lamela(Cavani/Rooney if they come on)
Penalties: Ricardo Montolivo(Rooney/Cavani if on)
Corners: Antoine Griezzman

We set up in an adaptable 4-4-2 system that can become a 4-5-1 or a 4-3-3 in order to concentrate our players in the areas we require them. Play a more cagey game looking to release the 3 attackers we have early, to go at the opposition when there is space. We will rough them up, fouling if we have to, don’t allow them to get rhythm.

http://sharemytactics.com/29258/

We set up to defend from half way in order to keep ourselves compact(and draw United forward). The front three are the ones to press, the CFs looking to cut off the option of the wide pass so we can squeeze United into central areas where we can defend in numbers, focusing on squeezing space rather than players, leaving no gaps and being difficult to break down. Griezzman can press the CMs not allowing them to dictate where the ball goes, with the rest of the team behind him then holding position ready to step in if needed, especially the FBs must be ready to hound the wingers as soon as the ball is aimed towards them. As they move the ball central the CFs drop deeper to make it tight in midfield, make the game scrappy if we have to, if United play it wide they must get out to press FBs.


If United want to build up out wide then we reorganise the shape of the team:

http://sharemytactics.com/29259/

We will become a 4-5-1 and move out to defend the horizontal zone where the ball is. The FB and winger(Origi/Lamela) must be on the opposition wide players, tight to them. The midfield will move across with the CM on that side looking to get into space so that if the FB is beaten he is there to get a foot in, whilst the wide players and the other CM are then in position centrally to stop the ball being moved across into space quickly, allowing us to reorganise. Whilst the DM, CF(who drops deep to an AM role) and the CBs are closing off everything they can, allowing no quick passes into the middle and marking tightly the central attackers and CMs.

We defend in a 4-5-1 if they are controlling the game in our half, defending the 18 yard line, at this stage Griezzman and Lamela drop right back to shield our FBs, Origi will be CF but drops deeper, to press the CMs. We then defend the space, keeping compact, a back four that is in line with FBs pushed in close to the CBs, leaving no gaps, the midfield 3 is in a line, no gaps to play between midfield and defence and particularly important is that Radja/Ricardo are ready to step in if the wingers try cutting infield, when they do that both FB and CM must be straight on them, don’t give them a site of goal. Defend deep, everyone back behind the ball.

Attack wise we look to play on the break. We defend from half way in order to draw out United, the bigger the gap between their CMs and their defence, the more joy we can get. The front 3 are the players doing the pressing around half way, looking to force mistakes or win the ball, then punishing them at great pace. The front 3 we have are full of pace and technical ability, move it quickly between them and run at the opposition. The three are adaptable and can make runs into positions where there is space, so if we win it high attack central, if united FBs are pushed up attack with wingers, stretch their remaining defence. Be fast and clinical, we have flair players but also they are players who are clever in attacking positions, they can all make runs, pick a pass and beat a player, and this is crucial to undoing their defence. Behind the three we have two CMs who are excellent with the ball and can pick passes, they will look to release the three attackers early, whilst as a diamond we can move the ball between the 4 quickly to get through the United midfield and into space to attack their defence. One FB will join in the counters too, adding that extra body to the attack, if its Howedes make runs into the box for crosses, if its Azpi he provides some extra width and a good cross. If we are struggling to break through with the counter we can go to Plan B and use longer balls into Origi, he will use his strength to hold it up and bring others into play, or look to hold it up then run at them with his pace. At times we must keep the ball, we have the midfield to do this and just slow the game down, especially if we have the lead, this allows us to have a break from defending and tire Uniteds legs chasing us for a change.

Individual:

Courtois commands his area, collecting crosses and distributing quickly.

FBs tight on the wingers, don't allow Navas space to run and don't let Robben cut inside, rough them up, neither like it.

Terry the physical presence to mark the striker, winning all the duels, Nkoulou with the pace to cover his partner. Don’t allow them to have time and space to control the ball and link up.

Kondogbia use his power, bully the AM, don't let him between the lines or have time on the ball. Radja has energy to work up and down all day, join attacks, work hard defensive to help out team mates as a spare man. Ricardo will start attacks, provide a wise head in midfield.

Front 3 = quick and adaptable. Work hard off the ball, attack with precision. Origin provides extra power, the other two the speed and vision. Link quickly, be clinical.

Subs:

If Winning: Rooney for Lamela 60’, works really hard off the ball. Bony for Origi 70’, extra strength to hold the ball up and allow us to keep possession also useful to defend set plays. Moreno for Griezzman 75’, 4-5-1, give us the outcall to get up the field. Experienced players in midfield will help us keep the ball, see the game out.

If Drawing: Cavan and Turan for Lamela and Origi 70’, Griezzman to CF, fresh legs in the attack and Cavani who will poach goals. Rooney for Montolivo 80’, Rooney will play CM as he has before, he has the range of passing and vision and can make unmarked runs into the area. If longer balls are working look towards Cavani.

If Losing: Cavani for Kondogbia 65’, play 4-4-2, with plan B if needed, longer balls cause confusion with two big strikers. Rooney and Turan for Origi and Azpilicueta 75’, 3-5-2:

Courtois
Nkoulou Terry Howedes
Nainngolan Montolivo
Griezzman Lamela Turan
Cavani Rooney

3 central midfielders who can make things happen, two fast wide men and excellent strikers, put the pressure on. wide men must track back.

ASTON VILLA

4-2-3-1

_______________________Navas_______________________
Zabaleta__________Toprak______Astori____________Shaw
_________________Gustavo_____Verratti_______________
Koke__________________Kagawa___________________Son
______________________Sturridge_____________________
SUBS: Begovic, Jones, Coleman, Gerrard, De Bruyne, Vela, Destro

Captain: Koke
Right free-kicks: Koke
Left free-kicks: Koke
Penalties: Daniel Sturridge
Right corners: Koke
Left corners: Koke

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 Kagawa and Koke will drop back to help, Son stays up as the out ball and Sturridge prepared for anything lumped up to him. Team must attempt to block shots at all times. Deep defensive line. * When defending we will play two banks of four and be compact leaving little space in between the lines. So when defending we will go into this mode:

Koke - Gustavo - Verratti - Kagawa
Sturridge - Son

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.

Toprak and Astori:
Deals with opposition attackers. Astori keeps an eye on their attacking midfielder when he gets close to the 18 yard line. Astori will also mark their striker closely not allowing him space to turn. Astori or Gustavo will deal with knock-downs to their supporting player depending on who is closer. Toprak will try and win headers when long balls are played towards the back line. Toprak will also clean up any balls / players who manage to get past Astori. Astori 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 Koke 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 Verratti:
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. Verratti will buzz around and dictate play, bursting forwards at times to provide an extra body in attack. Verratti will be a bit ahead of Gustavo to be more involved in exchanging passes with full backs / Kagawa, even going level with Kagawa at times to use his incredible vision to find teammates. Verratti 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. Verratti drops deeper when this happens.

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

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

SUBS:
Winning/Drawing:
75 mins: Kagawa OFF Gerrard ON
Gerrard replaces Kagawa and we go 4-3-3 with Gerrard 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 Destro Sturridge centre Koke right Son left. Kagawa supports, Verratti holds and sprays passes from deep. All out attack, have to go level at least if not win it. When we lose the ball Koke goes central to provide support in centre mid and Sturridge goes to the right to provide that outlet. Switch back when we have the ball. Both full backs go forwards in turns and we will squeeze them back into their 18 yard box. Our CBs will not stick too close to the striker in case they get turned, Astori will be ready to chase back towards goal while Toprak 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: Sturridge OFF Jones ON
Whatever minute: Kagawa OFF Vela ON
They’re gonna pen us back whether we like it or not, so we will go 5-4-1 with Jones slotting into a back 5. Koke will come into the centre along with Verratti with Vela right and Son left, Destro up front. Son 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.

------------------- Caballero -------------
Ivanovic --- Ramos --- Dante -- Coentrao
----------- De Rossi ---- Wilshere ------------
M.Ozil ----------- E.Hazard ------ F.Ribery
----------------- Carlos Bacca -----------------

Subs : Sagna, D.Luiz, Bertrand, Tiago, Fletcher, Schurrle, Kane
-----------------
Schurrle > Ozil - 70th min - Look to take on the FB as much as possible and make late runs into the box looking to take any opportunities that come his way.

Tiago > Wilshere - 70th minute - Continue to press in midfield and aid the team defensively.

If winning/draw - 80th minute - Kane > Bacca - Kane adds a different dynamic tothe side with his pace and runs in behind so he'll continue to pressurise their defenders and force mistakes.
----------------------
The outline:
A well experienced side with genuine quality all over the pitch, 3 changes from last week most notably Wilshere and Bacca coming in, Wilshere will provide fresh legs and drive in midfield whilst Bacca has the ability to play up on his own and the get trio behind him involved and causing havoc.

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. Ramos, Ivanovic and Dante must dominate from the outset and their experience should come to the fore. In midfield De Rossi and Wilshere must maintain the pressure and look to disrupt the play.

Attacking wise I want us to stretch them as much as possible down the flanks with Ozil and Ribery very direct and the FB’s giving them real support on the outside. Hazard is the go to man in terms of making things happen, I want others making runs off him whilst this still ensures we can counter with pace when we retrieve the ball.

I want us to pose a real threat with set-pieces with the CB's up from the back looking to whip the ball into the box with real pace so we can use our height and physicality to engineer a goal.
-----------------
Individual tactics:

Caballero starts in goal, I want him to command his area, very vocal, quick off his feet and distribution swift and on point.

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

De Rossi and Wilshere add force and bite to our midfield, De Rossi is the powerhouse 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. Wilshere partners and I want him to run his socks off. I want him getting stuck in so we can retrieve the ball back as quickly as possible and start our own attacks.

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. The wingers must support, Ozil 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.

C.Bacca 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
Pens - Ribery

aston villa red card: kagawa gets sacrificed for any red cards, begovic for keeper, coleman for full backs, vela for wingers, destro for striker, go defensive with son or vela with sturridge if still on to lead the counter