IF IT COUNTS:

Joel Campbell
Yaya Toure
Ander Herrera
Ben Foster

--------------------Hart
Lahm-----Kompany---Boateng----Gibbs
-----------------------------------------------
------------Busquets---Ramsey-------------
-----------------------------------------------
-Reus-------------Milner--------Ronaldo
----------------------------------------------
------------------Aguero--------------------

Subs:
Aymeric Laporte
Alexsander Kolarov
Daley Blind
Lukas Podolski
David Silva
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain
Jackson Martinez
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Subs:
IF WINNING 45'
Marco Reus > Daley Blind (alongside Busquets, Milner rw)
Absolutely essential that we hold onto the lead.

65'
Apply above.

75'
Apply all above.
Aguero > Kolarov - Ronaldo CF.
Ramsey > Chamberlain - Milner CM

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

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

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

60'
Apply above

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

80'
Boateng > Chamberlain
3-5-2
Reus-------OX----Milner----Ronaldo
------------------Silva
--------------Martinez----Aguero

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

The thinking behind this week's team selection is that I feel Chelsea 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 Milner pushed further up the field.

When we don't have the ball, I want my team to be disciplined with Milner 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 Chelsea defence. I feel they have a bit of shakyness in it. Especially at fullbacks, 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 Milner 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.

Boateng 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. Boateng 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 Boateng 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/Milner 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. Milner 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.

Comment deleted by Article Creator

v WBA

-----------------------Neuer-----------------------
Debuchy------Varane------Bonucci------Ricardo
----------------------Iturraspe---------------------
-----------------Pogba------Vidal------------------
Mirallas------------------------------------Neymar
---------------------A.Sanchez---------------------

Krul, Sciglio, Iturraspe, Guarin, Januzaj, Kruse, J.Hernandez

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.

Iturraspe sits just in front of the two cbs, 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. He will be aided when we defend by Pogba and Vidal either side of him Both extremely hard working lads who will get up and down the pitch helping both defence and attack. They sit as a threewith Vidal taking care of the cm when he comes forward. They will break up play and get it moving forward, most likely Vidal to burst forward to assist Sanchez. 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 Pogba in the midfield and they will be no pushovers. Pogba is sort of mix of the two, can pass the ball about, defend the lines and also break forward. A very cool head for such a young lad. Look to pick up from Iturraspe and drive forward looking for more advanced passing to those in front of him or push forward with the ball with Vidal sitting jsut a bit behind.

Mirallas 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 Sanchez. Neymar focusses more on the ttricks and twists to see him passed, whereas Mirallas 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 Sanchez as the middle man all three will drive at the WBA defence

Sanchez 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 Sanchez 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 as they arent the biggest of lads, ball to feet and always looking up for a pass..

Captain:- Vidal
Penalties:- Sanchez
Free kicks:- Mirallas
Corners:- Wingers

Subs:_

Losing/Drawing
70 Mins - Hernandez for Mirallas, Hernandez up top Sanchez RW
80 Mins - Januzaj for Iturraspe, Sanchez back up top, Januzaj RW 442
85 Mins - Guarin for Pogba

Winning -
70 Mins - Hernandez for Mirallas, Sanchez RW, Hernandez CF
80 Mins - Guarin for Pogba
85 Mins - Januzaj for Neymar

-------------------Casillas-------------------
Richards-----D.Vrij----Vlaar-----L.Baines
---------Delph---Sissoko---Barry---------
Lacazette-------------------------Shaawary
-------------------D.Sakho-------------------

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 Sissoko and Delph in beside him to stop this. Delph watches the next most attacking midfielder whereas Sissoko 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/Sissoko will move up to support Sakho 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 Sakho 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/Sakho for a touch and go move and drive into the box looking to go for goal. Instructiions are for both sides.

Sakho always seems to be in the right place at the right time, proven goalscorer, so look to get inot these positions to become a danger, tweo good feet and great in the air, leap early to get above CBs and look to move his marker around to get away from him, look to bring others into the game by hjolding it up and passing it back to them for them, to have a go on goal.

Captain - Vlaar
Pens CF
FreeKicks - Shaawary
Corners Wingers

Subs
Losing
Sneijder for Delph go to AM - 70 Mins 4231
Ben yedder for Barry 442 on 80

Winning
70 Mins Rodwell for Sissoko
80 Mins - Meljarejo for Shaawary

Where it says arsenal, meant to read man utd

Newcastle United Vs SOUTHAMPTON

Team line up:

Ospina
Srna Fazio Matip Asamoah
Biglia
Holtby Benat
Sam Huntelaar Mertens

Substitutes: De Silvestri, Amavi, Lombaerts, Sandro, Diego, Menez, Muriel

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

Game Plan:

We travel to Newcastle today with the primary objective of winning the midfield battle which we feel will be the key to controlling the game. With this goal in mind, we have set up in a formation that provides optimum fluidity and with players that will allow us to swarm the midfield, giving Newcastle no room to play the ball, whilst being technically astute enough to play a considered possession game with the idea of controlling the tempo of the match. 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.

We our moving away from the 6 second defensive structure that we have played in recent weeks in favour of a higher tempo, longer lasting system more akin to the structure Dortmund used in their title winning season. We will be looking to press Newcastle all over the pitch, often double manning players in order to force them in to making mistakes that will lead to us winning possession again. With our 3 central midfielders, 2 wingers and 2 adventurous full backs, we feel we have enough bodies to really crowd out the centre of the pitch whilst also covering the wings, thus negating Newcastle’s biggest threat.

When we do regain possession, we want to take the tempo out of Newcastle’s game by playing short, considered passes and trying to keep the ball for sustained periods of the game. By doing this, we hope to force the Newcastle players in to pushing forward enough to leave gaps in their defence that our wingers can exploit and, also, we hope to tire out their players who will be chasing shadows most of the game. If this tactics works well, we will be looking to finish the game off in the final 10 minutes.


Our attack will focus on forcing Newcastle in to making gaps in their own defence in their efforts to regain the ball. From here, we have Mertens and Sam, both very fast players, who will be looking to run in behind the defence. Once there, they will not be caught. Huntelaar will be up top to provide a target man to finish off the attacks. Holtby, Biglia and Benat will be looking to feed through balls in between the Newcastle defenders at every opportunity and Mertens, Sam and Muriel will be given free roles to roam across Newcastle’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.


Player Roles:

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 Newcastle’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. Both will be looking to play the ball out from the back so will be instructed to play it simple.

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 Newcastle's wide men in to the congested centre of the pitch.

Biglia: A fairly 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 Newcastle’s forwards and midfielders so that our centre backs can cover a wider area at the back.

Holtby 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 Newcastle 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 Newcastle centre backs, challenging in the air and on the ground for every ball and generally making a nuisance of himself.


Substitutions:

65 minutes: Sandro for Holtby – Sandro moves in to the defensive roles with Biglia and will look to break up play and recycle possession well.

75 minutes: Menez for Benat – Menez will provide a more adventurous attacking threat than Benat and he will be looking to play off Huntelaar’s shoulder and get himself a goal.

80 minutes: Jordan Amavi for Biglia – A deserved debut for Amavi after some good form of late. Asamoah will move in to Biglia’s midfield position and Amavi will get a chance at left back.

Swansea tactics

---------------------------Diego Alves-------------------------
Caceres----------Albiol------------Rami------------Maxwell
------------------Papadopoulos----------------------------
------------------------------------Fellaini------------------------
Yedlin----------------------Cerci-------------------------Lallana
----------------------------Negredo------------------------

Subs: Baumann, Contento, Rio, Lanzini, Salah, Nolan, Rondon

General: I would have counter-attacked but I feel that the opposition have lost some key players centrally that would give their defence some protection and we have to capitalise on that by being attacking their right side. We have to play at a high tempo as I don't think their central midfield are fit enough to match ours in terms of pace and stamina. We feel that we are stronger centrally and we shall bully and dominate them. We have to press them so our forwards and Cerci will be doing that for sure. Set-pieces is also key as we have the height advantage and we need to be accurate in our delivery. High tempo, high energy and smart defending with Yedlin to help Caceres and Lallana helping Maxwell.

Defence
We have a powerful defence throughout than has height, strength and intelligence. Our CB's will be more than happy dealing with arial threat but we think they want us to give space to their pacey strikers but they shall be monitored and not given space in behind. The fullbacks have a big job and vital we don't dive into tackles. Both Yedlin and Lallana will help out at times and restrict their attack. The CB's and Papa will be going up top for offensive corners and they will be targeted along with Fellaini.

Midfield
Papa will play just ahead of our CB's to give them protection and he will be in the opposition faces centrally as Yedlin and Lallana have the FB positions covered. Papa to be disciplined and distribute the ball quick and into feet. Fellaini will play box-box and will be important to help both sets when he sees fit. Fellaini to target our goal kicks and get the flick on for Negredo to latch on to. Fellaini to link up with Lallana and charge forward to help support. Yedlin defo has the energy to run all day and will help both RB and target the LB of the opposition purely with pace and clever 1-2s. Lallana will be on the ball more often than the others as we want to target their LB and know that Lallana has the skills and pace to get the better of him. Lallana will be supported by Fellaini so expect Fellaini to run in behind or make space for Lallana for him to run into himself. Cerci will be the central AM and will be feeding Negredo as well as Lallana. The attacking midfielders can also interchange sometimes but they all shall be on the move when receiving the ball and attacking the LB of the other team.

Forward
Negredo is all about movement and he shall take up threatening positions and run into space to receive or play as a decoy run. Very important that he isnt static as he will be easily marked. He has to be on the move and try and get into space behind the last defender and not collide with the other attackers. Spread the play.

Subs: 70min: Salah on for Cerci and be direct as possible.

HULL CITY vs Swansea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 Swansea'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 Swansea 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 Swansea 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

-------------------------Casilla
Clyne-------Jagielka-------Mustafi-------Ansaldi
-----------------Medel-------Sahin
Feghouli---------------Jovetic-------------Payet
-----------------------Berahino
Subs
Mignolet, Willems, Kongolo, Garcia, Herrera, 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 Mustafi 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 Jovetic or Berahino. 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, Sahin and Feghouli 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 Herrera for Feghouli and Sahin - 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 - Willems and Valencia for Ansaldi and Payet - Extra attacking impetus

Yaya Toure
Lucas Ocampos
Cristiano Ronaldo
Joel Campbell
--------------------Hart
Lahm-----Kompany---Boateng----Gibbs
-----------------------------------------------
------------Busquets---Ramsey-------------
-----------------------------------------------
---Reus----------D.Silva--------Milner
----------------------------------------------
------------------Aguero--------------------

Subs:
Aymeric Laporte
Alexsander Kolarov
Ander Herrera
Daley Blind
Lukas Podolski
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain
Jackson Martinez
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Subs:
IF WINNING 45'
Marco Reus > Alex Oxlade Chamberlain
Absolutely essential that we hold onto the lead.

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

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

IF DRAWING 60'
Milner > Chamberlain - more pace and attacking threat

75'
Aguero > Martinez
Reus > Podolski. Ox and Pod swap wings
Different players, might unlock their defence

IF LOSING 45'
Milner > Chamberlain

60'
Apply above
Gibbs > Kolarov

80'
Apply above. Ramsey > Martinez. 4-4-2.
Reus Bus Silva ox
Mart Aguero


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

The thinking behind this week's team selection is that I feel Man City 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 and Milner.

We also look to win the midfield battle with an extra man in there especially considering this is City's weakest area on the pitch, this will put us at an advantage especially with the quality of players that we have, and usually whoever win the midfield battle, they win the game.

When we don't have the ball, I want my team to be diciplined with Silva 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. However both are wingers a perfectly adapted in helping the defence out especially Milner who never stops runing.

http://sharemytactics.com/25078/


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.

Boateng 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. Boateng 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 Boateng 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.

Busquets and Ramsey will be our two deepest central midfielders. As usual Busquets holds while Ramsey plays box to box. Ramsey 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.

Reus and Milner - Both will help out the team defensively by tracking back and also provide an outlet when going forward. Both quick, direct, tricky and strong, I want them to be in a good shape when we are defending. Look to counter quickly when the opportunity arises. 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 City defence and drill in low balls and cutbacks, or they can drive at the defence and cause them problems.

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.

The link in my tactics should be : http://sharemytactics.com/29862/

----------------Szczęsny
Uchida---Subotic---Godin---Siquera
--------Henderson-----Pjanic
Iturbe------------Mata----------Nasri
------------------Higuain
Subs
Perin, Rojo, Zaldua, Parejo, Pardo, De Jong, Alcacer

Tactical Overview
A counter attacking 4-2-3-1 with inverted wingers to allow full backs to provide width when attacking. and working in groups of 2 or 3 to press high up the pitch get the ball back by stayng on their feet and nick the ball rather than sliding in to launch quick transitions from defence to attack.



Keeper


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



Full Backs

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

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



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, Strootman will be playing a more all round game looking to put himself about, being a key figure in the pressing game and using his energy to get forward and make late runs and be an extra attacking presence. When defending, both players will look to close down the space in which the attacking midfielders will look to occupy and restrict them to minimal time on the ball.





Wingers


When they are 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. 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, Higuain and Strooty work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a free run at the ball, Nasri looks to annoy the opposition keeper looking to limit his ability to move around the 6 yard box. Iturbe and Pjanic take positions just outside the box to pick up any weak defensive headers or knockdowns.





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



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





Penalties - Higuain is the designated taker.





Subs



If Winning


72 mins - Parejo 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 - De Jong for Nasri and Alcacer for Higuain - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.



If Losing



71 Mins - Rojo + Alcacer for Uchida + 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 - De Jong for Nasri - a more direct option.

If Drawing
70 Mins - Parejo for Hendo
76 Mins - Rojo for Siquera
80 Mins - De Jong for Mata - Nasri AM, De Jong LW

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

Red Card Directives

1st Half - go to a 4-2-2-1 formation, with Iturbe going off if needed to replace the position which was sent off.

2nd Half

If Losing - Same as 1st half

If Winning - switch to a 5-3-1 - with Iturbe and Nasri going off, to replace the position for the player which the red was given to, and to bring Rojo on as the 3rd CB.

ASTON VILLA

4-2-3-1

_______________________Navas_______________________
Zabaleta__________Toprak_____Koscielny__________Shaw
_______________Fernandinho____Kroos________________
Honda_________________Kagawa___________________Son
______________________Sturridge_____________________
SUBS: Begovic, Astori, Coleman, Verratti, De Bruyne, 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 Honda 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:

Honda - 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.

Toprak 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. 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 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 Honda 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.

Honda, 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. Honda 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. Honda will be drifting inside a lot and 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 Honda 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 Honda 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 Honda 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 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 Astori 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 Astori slotting into a back 5. Honda 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.

Wolves v EVERTON

Injuries: Kyle Ebecilio, Patrick Van Aanholt, Alex Song, Hernanes

------------------Schmeichel
Manquillo - Vidic - Ogbonna - Criscito
----------------Capoue - Inler
----------Navas - Danny - Bernard
--------------------Llorente

Subs: Ruddy, Smalling, Skrtel, Valero, Ayew, Thauvin, Doumbia

Wolves away is a tough game but we have the side to compete and the players to cause them genuine problems. Matching them like for like with a 4-2-3-1, with a few débutantes making our side stronger. Vidic slots in at the back alongside Ogbonna, Navas an improvement at RW and the ever creative Danny in at AM. With two natural wingers their job will be to get down the outside of the Wolves fullback and get crosses in, or cut inside to allow our fullbacks to overlap. Providing Llorente with chances is key to any success we get today.

Schmeichel - 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.

Vidic/Ogbonna - Vidic 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 the Wolves 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 Navas/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 Danny. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Capoue/Inler - Capoue the enforcer in midfield, assist the CB's in dealing with the Wolves attack, if they play an AM (likely Mkhitaryan) 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 Wolves wingers, if they are able to cut inside we may be outnumbered. Remain composed throughout.

Danny - 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 Navas and Bernard on occasion to create confusion and leave space for your teammates to run into. Link with Navas, 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.

Navas/Bernard - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Wolves 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 Danny, 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 Wolves centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind.

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Danny, Bernard and Llorente off, Valero, Ayew and Doumbia on. Valero partners Capoue and Inler in a midfield three, switch to 4-5-1 with Navas RM and Ayew LM. Doumbia the lone striker. Doumbia, Navas and Ayew with the pace to punish Wolves on the break.

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

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

Brum vs Wolves

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

Subs: Cesar, Veltman, Schmelzer, Carrick, Willian, Remy, Clasie

Subs

Willian for Lavezzi 65th min
Remy for Costa 75th min

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 villa team. We will look to use the pace of our wingers to destroy the villas 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.

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 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 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.

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


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

Manchester United vs Leicester, Old Trafford

Attacking 4-2-3-1, playing with plenty of width. At home, we have gone for a side that will dominate possession, and create the chances we need to score plenty of goals.

It has been said we are due a loss, for that reason we have to work even harder to ensure a win, and have gone with a side that we feel will be able to really take the game to Leicester.

------------ G.Buffon
Rafael – Pepe – Vertonghen – Filipe
------- Khedira – Fabregas
Bellarabi -- S.Cazorla ---- Robben
------------- C.Tevez

Subs. Zieler, Martinez, Schneiderlin, Rakitic Barkley, Hulk, Wellbeck

Building on a strong defence, we play with plenty of width, seeking to stretch the opposition, and attack down the wings.

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.

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. Always looking for fast combination layoffs in the final third.

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 Leicester defenders out of position. Coming inside we look to whip the ball in behind the opposition defence, or play a cute through ball.

We will look to defend high up the pitch, our priority however is to get into our shape first, once in this shape we then press. Control the space in our own half, when the opposition do have possession, we ensure it’s in areas high up the pitch and that we have a compact defensive formation that they cannot break against.

Cazorla comes into the side in the attacking midfield role, linking up with Cesc we want them to dominate possession and create the chances we need to put Leicester on the back foot. The pace of Bellarabi and Robben out wide will provide a constant threat down the wings. We want them to play wide, stretching the game and creating more space for our central players.

Defence

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 Tevez looks to close them down.

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, using the pace of our wide players and the quality of our central players on the ball.

The defence ensures that as Leicester 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. Cesc and Santi 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 line with the deepest midfielder, Khedira. 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.

We will look to defend high up the pitch, playing a high pressing game. Tevez leads from the front with his natural high work rate. By defending high up the pitch in Leicester’s half it will make it more difficult for them on the ball, they will find it hard to link their defence and attack, and we aim to isolate their furthest forward players.

Attack

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

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

Robben has more freedom to find space in central areas. Filipe is tasked with keeping the width when he gets down the left. The pace of Bellarabi & Robben will be a real asset down the wings and will help to stretch the opposition, forcing them deep. This will create space in the centre of the park, giving time to the central players.

Cesc 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 most of the time when we attack. Cesc will cover on the odd occasion.

Cazorla will always look to find space in between the Leicester midfield and defence, where he can get on the ball, linking up and looking to create.

Tevez up top will play his natural game.

Subs.
Winning after 70 mins bring on Wellbeck for Tevez. Fresh legs and pace against the tiring Leicester legs.
Winning after 75 mins bring on Rakitic for Cazorla. Quality and a more defensivley strong option in am.
Winning after 80 mins bring on Schneiderlin for Cesc.

Drawing after 60 mins bring on Rakitic for Cazzorla.
Drawing after 66 mins bring on Hulk for Bellarabi. More attacking option.
Drawing after 75 mins bring on Wellbeck for Cesc. Up top with Tevez.

Losing after 55 mins bring on Rakitic for Khedira. All out attack. Dominate possession.
Losing after 65 mins bring on Hulk for Cazorla. Up top with Tevez, 4-4-2.
Losing after 75 mins bring on Wellbeck for Rafael. 3-4-3. Left forward, Hulk on right.

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-------------------- De Gea -------------
Ivanovic --- Ramos --- Dante -- Coentrao
----------- De Rossi ---- Tiago ------------
Schurrle -------- E.Hazard ------ F.Ribery
----------------- R.Van Persie ---------------

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

Bacca > RVP - 70th minute - A new threat up front I want Bacca to bully their tiring defence looking to create chances.

Ozil > Schurrle - (draw/losing) - 80th minute - Ozil look to come inside and drive at their CB's whilst linking with others to open up the game.
----------------------
The outline:
An important game today and one that we want to win, we're buoyed by the fact Arsenal are missing arguably 2 of their best players in Ronaldo and Yaya Toure so ideally its our best chance of getting a result and this desire should show in our performance today out on the pitch.

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

I want us to play with high intensity however we need to know when to press and when to sit off. RVP will press from the front whilst I want the rest of the side pressing when they get into our half, we must keep a well organised and compact shape looking to cut down all avenues of a pass as quick as possible to ensure theres no purpose to their play.

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 - Ramos
FK's/corners - Hazard/ Ribery
Pens - RVP

-----------------------------------Ryan
Azpilicueta---------N'Koulou-----------Terry------Howedes
-------------------------Matic-----------Matuidi
Griezzman---------------------Rooney----------------Turan
----------------------------------Origi

Subs: Hassen, Moreno, Kondogbia, Nainngolan, Garcia, Bony, Lamela

Captain: John Terry
Free Kicks: Wayne Rooney(shot)/Antoine Griezzman(delivery)
Corners: Wayne Rooney/Antoine Griezzman
Penalties: Wayne Rooney


We set up in an adaptable 4-5-1 system that can become a 4-4-2 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.

We set up to defend from half way in order to keep ourselves compact(and draw Portsmouth forward). The front four are the ones to press, the central attackers looking to cut off the option of the wide pass so we can squeeze Portsmouth 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. Rooney 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.

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 Turan 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 Matuidi and Rooney 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 Portsmouth, the bigger the gap between their CMs and their defence, the more joy we can get. The front 4 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 4 we have are full of pace and technical ability, move it quickly between them and run at the opposition. The four are adaptable and can make runs into positions where there is space, so if we win it high attack central, if Portsmouths 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 they can also power us forward when we need. 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 Portsmouth legs chasing us for a change.

Individual:

Ryan commands his area, collecting crosses and distributing quickly.

FBs tight on the wingers, don't allow Sterling space to run and don't let them 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.

Matic use his power, bully the AM, don't let him between the lines or have time on the ball. Matuidi has energy to work up and down all day, join attacks, work hard defensive to help out team mates as a spare man. Dominate the midfield.

Front 4 = quick and adaptable. Work hard off the ball, attack with precision. Origi provides extra power, the other three the speed and vision. Link quickly, be clinical.

Subs:

If Winning: Garcia for Griezzman 70', go onto the right. Nainngolan for Rooney 75'. Bony for Origi 80'.

If Drawing: Nainngolan for Matuidi 65'. Bony for Origi 70'. Lamela for Turan 75'.

If Losing: Bony for Azpilicueta 65', 3-5-2. Garcia for Turan 70', use his presence to make a nuisance of himself. Lamela for Griezzman 75'.

Swansea tactics

--------------------------Diego Alves-----------------------
Caceres--------Albiol-------------Rami-----------Maxwell
---------------<-Illarramendi-------Motta->-------------------
------------------------------Fellaini--------------------------
-----Salah-------------------------------------------Lallana
------------------------------Negredo------------------------

Subs: Contento, Yedlin, Lanzini, Ince, Nolan, Rondon, Torres

General: Midfield domination. We intend to keep the tempo very high and we expect to battle in midfield as I am prepared to take on Southamptoon and take the game to them by pressing them high with our wingers and attackers and our central midfield are on hand to help them. All the while we pass quickly, on the floor and make the other team chase the ball all day as we try to create space. It is essential that we attack them direct and not slow the game as we have the players to take on their defence and score goals. We press their midfield and make them pass the ball quicker than they anticipated or head back towards their goal.

Alves
Top goalkeeper and will be aggressive on set plays as well as shouting at players to keep them in line. He will stay big and stay on his feet if 1v1 and not do anything rash. Kick it out to touch if need be.

Maxwell and Caceres
I went for my experienced full-backs to take on their wingers and I am very confident that they shall win the battle as they are both strong tacklers and are good readers of the game that will not resort to diving in. They shall both help their respective wingers if need be but be aware of the threat in behind. They shall be helped with a DM if they are isolated.

Rami and Albiol
Both strong commanding defenders that can win ariel balls all day. They shall marshall the defence and be alert for Kessling as we do not want him to have space and he will be accompanied by a DM at times if he has found space. I expect total focus and communication from them at all times. No rash tackles and stay on their feet unless they really have to.

Irra and Motta
I have gone for 2 holding midfielders as I believe we can dominate the game if we take on Asamoah and co in the central area which is crucial as I want to press them hard and win the ball high and exploit their defence who will not handle our pace. Motta to be patrolling the midfield but seldomly Irra get go up alittle further and help the forwards when he can. Irra to press the midfield and always distribute quick as well as Motta. We try to target the defence 1v1 and run at them.

Fellaini
He has a free role but more likely to be situated further up the field as he is dangerous in the air and dangerous 1v1. We use Fellaini's ability to win in the air by targeting him on set-pieces but he is also great in getting in behind and firing home. His strength is his strength and he can also help pressing the central midfielders and win high up to start a quick attack. He should be targeting the defence and help as much as possible.

Salah and Lallana
We feel these two have the beating of the opposition's full-backs and when they have the opportunity of 1v1, they should take them on and goal for goal or set up Negredo. I expect their pace will frighten anyone so they can also run into areas as a decoy run and allow Fellaini and Negredo to enter those spaces and have a better chance of scoring.

Negredo
He will be mobile throughout and always on the move to either press the defence or play on the shoulder of the last defender and go through to score as he has a great record of 1v1 against any keeper. Negredo will be supported well and will be clever enough to use Fellaini and the wingers and win the balls from flick ons or crosses in to him.

Subs: Torres for Negredo 80mins

Yedlin for Salah 75mins: Yedlin to help defensively but also use his pace to target tired legs on full-backs.

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

--------------------Neuer--------------------
Debuchy----Varane----Bonucci----Ricardo
------------------Iturraspe------------------
--------------Guarin----Pogba--------------
Sanchez-----------------------------Mirallas
------------------Benzema-------------------

Butland, Sciglio, Pirlo, Rabiot, Depay, Thorgan, Berahino

In what is possibly the biggest game to date, we must go into this with confidence, play as we do and really go at Man Utd

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(if Dzeko up front Varane and Bonucci switch roles), 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.

Iturraspe sits just in front of the two cbs, 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. He will be aided when we defend by Pogba and Guarin either side of him. Both extremely hard working lads who will get up and down the pitch helping both defence and attack. They sit as a three with Pogba taking care of the cm when he comes forward. They will break up play and get it moving forward, most likely Guarin to burst forward to assist Benzema, he is a very dynamic player with great stamina, one who never gives up. He and Pogba in the midfield will run all day and look to force Man Utd backwards. Guarin is sort of mix of the two, can pass the ball about, defend the lines and also break forward. Look to pick up from Iturraspe and drive forward looking for more advanced passing to those in front of him or push forward with the ball with Pogba sitting just a bit behind in case of any break aways by Utd.

Mirallas and Sanchez are both extremely hard worker wingers. 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. Both like to make the pass that gives them time to look for space 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 WBA 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 Guarin supporting through the middle we are a huge goal threat. I want quick football ball to feet, quick one twos to get round the Man Utd defence.

Captain - Neuer
Penalties - Benzema
Free Kicks - Sanchez/Mirallas depends which side
Corners - Wingers

Subs:-
Losing:-
70 Mins - Depay for Guarin, play just off the shoulder of Benzema and look to use his pace to hurt the Man Utd defence
80 Mins - Thorgan for Mirallas, 4213 Iturraspe and Pogba in CM, Thorgan just ahead and Sanchez, Depay either side of Benzema, really pushing them back
85 Mins - Berahino for Debuchy, 3 at the backBerahino central up top with Benzema

Winning:-
70 Mins - Depay for Mirallas, pace and will help out defensively if need be
80 Mins - Pirlo for Guarin, look to play keep ball

Drawing
70 Mins - Depay for Mirallas
80 Mins - Rabiot for Guarin
85 Mins - Berahino for Benzema

--------------------Kiko--------------------

Mustafi---Jagielka---Blackett---J.Jesus

Montero--McCarthy--Carrick--Naismith

------------------Chicarito-----------------
--------------------Remy-------------------

Mignolet
Toure
Sahin
Garcia
Gaitan
Valencia
Austin

I want two banks of 4 today to allow the front two to hurt Manchester City, with the defenders I want Phil Jagielka to take charge, keep them as a four. Mustafi and Jesus are not particularly what you would say attack minded so they should be no gaps in the defence for them to exploit. Keep it tight, mark the forwards well and try and help Kiko keep a clean sheet. I have opted for youth and experience at centre half, just stick together and stop the forwards getting into the box.

The next bank of fouragain look to keep the shape, especially when Manchester City have the ball, in Montero and Naismith we have two very industrious wingers who work hard for there team mates, they will get up and down the pitchn looking to both create and defend. McCarthy and Carrick again two hardf working players, McCarthy being the younger of the two has the energy to do the running, tackles hard and again like the the wingers can create and defend. Micheal Carrick will be the holding midfielder and he will sit in the centre circle looking to stop Manchester City.

The forwards are lively pair, Chicarito is a buzz bomb and will run his socks off, looking to get into positions that will allow Remy more freedom when the ball is crossed in from the wingers. I want both forwards to interchange as this will be harder for the Manchester City defenders to mark them.

Captain - Phil Jagielka
Penalties - Chicarito
Set Plays - McCarthy

Substitutions
Enner Valencia for Loic Remy on 65 Minutes
Nicolas Gaitan for Stevie Naismith on 70 Minutes

Kolo Toure for Chicarito if we are winning on 80 Minutes and play in defence

Charlie Austin for Chicarito and play 2 up front if we are losing on 80 Minutes

EVERTON v Aston Villa

Injuries: Tyias Browning, Chris Smalling, Bernard, Danny

------------------Schmeichel
Jenkinson - Vidic - Ogbonna - Criscito
------------------Song - Inler
---------Navas - Hernanes - Ayew
--------------------Llorente

Subs: Ruddy, Skrtel, Van Aanholt, Capoue, Thauvin, Redmond, Doumbia

Villa are a tough side to play against but we have the side to compete and the players to cause them genuine problems. Matching them like for like with a 4-2-3-1. Changes are, the in form Jenkinson in at right back for Manquillo, Song and Inler in midfield, Hernanes in at AM, with two natural wingers in Navas and Ayew their job will be to get down the outside of the Villa fullbacks and get crosses in, or cut inside to allow our fullbacks to overlap. Providing Llorente with chances is key to any success we get today.

Schmeichel - 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.

Vidic/Ogbonna - Vidic 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.

Jenkinson/Criscito - Both of you to force the Villa 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 Navas/Ayew 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 Hernanes. 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 Villa 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 Villa wingers, if they are able to cut inside we may be outnumbered. Remain composed throughout.

Hernanes - 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 Navas and Ayew on occasion to create confusion and leave space for your teammates to run into. Link with Navas, Ayew, 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.

Navas/Ayew - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Villa 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 Hernanes, 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 Villa centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind.

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Hernanes, Ayew and Llorente off, Capoue, Redmond and Doumbia on. Capoue partners Song and Inler in a midfield three, switch to 4-5-1 with Navas RM and Redmond LM. Doumbia the lone striker. Doumbia, Navas and Redmond with the pace to punish Villa on the break.

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

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