Manchester United vs Liverpool
Old school 4-4-1-1

Away to Liverpool we look to defend deep, in numbers. Attacking down the wings, with Barkley and Wellbeck up top seeking to expose their cbs.

An all action centre mid duo, with Schneiderlin the more defensive.

--------------- G.Buffon
D.Alves –- Manolas – I.Martinez – A.Telles
Bellarabi – Vilhena – Schneiderlin – Cazorla
--------------- R.Barkley
------------------- Wellbeck

Subs. Vertonghen, N.Stark Rakitic, Oscar, Robben, Correa, Tevez

Balanced 4-4-1-1. Barkley the number 10, we want him in between their defence and midfield, just off Wellbeck causing their defence havoc .

We play with lots of width. Playing patiently in our own half. Fbs and wide midfielders looking to really stretch the play as me move out of our half. Stretching the game in the middle so that our central players have space and time on the ball.

Generally short passes out from defence, a cm will look to pick up the ball and paly it out wide, preferably to the full back getting forward. In the middle of the park we look to keep the ball on the deck passing in triangles, triangles that are directed out wide, as we look to shift the ball wider as we advance into the opposition half.

In defence we have two walls of four. Tight and moving as a unit leaving no space. Barkley sits in line with their deepest midfielder moving from left to right with the ball.

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.

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. Barkley and one cm will always be seeking to link up with the wide players. Fast combination layoffs between the wide men and Barkley/Vilhena will be key 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 Chelsea defenders out of position. Coming inside we look to whip the ball in behind the opposition defence, or play a cute through ball. When going wide, if possible get to the by line at the 18 yard box, from there you have a greater chance of finding a man in the box.

Defence.

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

The first point of defence should be seeking to get into position in our own half. We allow the opposition CBs and GK time on the ball in their half. We seek to get into our compact rigid, defensive formation, and pressing when the opposition enter our half, ensuring there is no space for Liverpool to play in.
Force them to go long or take risks.

As soon as they move the ball into our half, to the middle section of the park we want to press.
Keeping the 4-4-1-1 shape at this point, Wellbeck, Barkley and one of Bellarabi/Cazorla will look to close down the opposition depending where the opposition are. The winger on the opposite flank comes in narrow, ensuring there is no space in the centre. Narrow the pitch not giving them any options.

As Pool advance further up the park, the back line and midfield drops deep so there is no space in behind either line. Our shape here will still resemble the 4-4-1-1. Barkley is the player tasked with closing down the opposition in front of the midfield.

We always want at least one more defender than Liverpool has attacker. One full backs get forward at a time. The other stays in line with Schneiderlin, ready to break forward. Guarding against counters, allows us to get players back if possession changes quickly.

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

Attack - as above

Passing simple in our own third. Playing short and on the deck where possible. If we go long, look to find Barkley in space or use Wellbeck’s 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.

Wellbeck up top will play his natural game.

Subs. If winning after 70 mins bring on Rakitic for Vilhena.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Oscar for Barkley.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Tevez for Wellbeck.

If drawing after 60 mins bring on Robben for Cazorla. 4-2-3-1.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Rakitic for Vilhena
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Tevez for Wellbeck.

If losing after 55 mins bring on Tevez for Wellbeck.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Robben for Cazorla. 4-2-3-1.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Rakitic for Vilhena.

————————————————Ryan
Azpilicueta————Denayer-------------Terry———Moreno
----------------------Matuidi—————Matic
Candreva——————————Rooney----------------Griezzman
----------------------------------Costa

Subs: Hassen, Kalas, Nainngolan, Lamela, Raul Garica, Hernandez, Origi

Captain: John Terry
Free Kicks: Antoine Griezzman
Corners: Antoine Griezzman
Penalties: Diego Costa

We set up in as a 4-5-1 looking to press the opposition from half way, allowing them to have more possession in order to get men behind the ball and in position to frustrate them, pressing them into mistakes, closing off the space and slowing their tempo with fouls if needed. Break forward at pace over power them on the counter.

The front four close down with intense pressure, stopping the opposition being able to play a fast tempo and move the ball forward, force them backwards and sideways. Costa close on the CBs whilst the two wide attacking midfielders narrow and block the route to the midfield. Rooney the spare man closes off the gaps with his great workrate. The rest of the team in their structure ready to step up and compact the pitch, or drop off and deal with a longer ball.

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

If they get the ball central we set up with two banks of four and the two forwards dropping in to press, Costa when it goes backwards to the DMs and Rooney moving to where he's needed, always working to close down and force errors. We squeeze the space in the midfield, keep the lines compact with the two wide attackers moving out to stop the FBs if they overlap and they contract if United get numbers central. Keeping the lines tight allows us to squeeze the ball if they get it to the striker. If they are really pushing us back, fall to defend the 18 yard box, FBs tuck in alongside the CBs to give us to compact banks of four, only pushing wide if United do, keep disciplined, wait for the chance to break.

When we have the ball we want to counter with pace and power, looking to move the ball into the space and take advantage of the power we have centrally. Plan A will see us using lots of movement, moving the ball quickly in the area we win it, taking advantage of compact defending to be able to spring forward with one touch passing, quickly breaking into the final third and using our four attacking players and one FB on the side of attack. The two wide men have the license to attack wide or from central, with one holding width when we break down his flank, linking with the FB to create the overlap, whilst the other will come central and look to make use of free space to provide an overload, either down the wing where we are building, or centrally to give us three central attackers against their defence. The FB and winger must interchange, at times the FB going to the byline where he can find space to cross or open up room for the winger to cut in, and other times making underlap so the winger can get to the byline and into the box to pull it back. We then want movement between the forwards, Rooney will come to the ball and use Costa and Griezzman running off him, however sometimes Costa will drop deeper to hold it up and the others make runs off him. Plan B is the more physical approach, looking to hit Costa early, cutting out their midfield and allowing him to push it wide for the wide attackers to spring forward at pace, this will be extra threatening if we are defending deep and Costa has dropped to half way, with more space for us to run into, make use of the power and push Rooney up alongside him.

Individual:

Ryan commands his area, collecting crosses and distributing quickly.

FBs tight on the wingers, don't allow them 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, Denayer 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 likewise as well as looking to push the team forward with his energy.

Wide men use their pace and work rate to impact both ends of the field. When they defend they must be ready to tuck in our push wide, whist going forward they have to provide the pace to use any space we get in the game.

Rooney a spare man defensively and the creator offensively. We want him looking to play close to Costa when we attack so we can get balls into the two to give us hold up play.

Costa, movement, power, goals. Fight their defence, make them uncomfortable.

Subs:

If Winning: Nainngolan for Costa 70’, Rooney go CF. Garcia for Griezzman 75’, keep hold of the ball and overpower them in midfield. Origin for Rooney 85’, fresh legs late on for the hold up play.

If Drawing: Lamela for Griezzman 70’, something new to attack them with. Nainggolan for Matuidi 75’, more creative influence from deep. Origi for Candreva 80’, Lamela right, Origi left, two players who will run at the opposition.

if Losing: Lamela and Nainngolan for Matuidi and Candreva 65’, more attack minded players to create faster more direct build up play. Hernandez for Moreno 75’, 3-5-2, goal poacher, wait for his chances.

-----------------------Cech
Piszczek------Cahill--------Chiellini-----Bernat
------------Bender--------Schwein
Willian------------Di Maria------------------Turan
---------------------Jovetic
Subs: Cesar, Arbeloa, Veltman, Clasie, Lavezzi , Eriksen, Soldado

Subs

Eriksen for Willian - 60 mins - switch positions with Di Maria

Lavezzi for Turan - 70 mins


GAME PLAN

We need to be in their faces by continuously pressing them and keeping all men behind the ball (when we are off the ball). When on the ball we need to be direct and composed. We need to use our wingers as much as possible because that is where I believe we can take advantage of Bilbao. Their full backs will be attacking a lot and leaving plenty of gaps behind them. Willian and Turan have the pace to punish them. We need to dominate the midfield battle and control the game how we want it to be controlled. We need to control possession and work the ball into spaces. Try and keep it tight for Bilbao so when we get the ball we can exploit any spaces left. Bender is the DM so he will stay back to protect our defence while our other midfielders will be focusing on the attacking side of the game. Be in their faces, make them uncomfortable and then hopefully we will be able to take advantage.

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

Di Maria should use his pace and strength to make runs into the box and opening up space for Jovetic. 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 likeTuran, Di Maria and Willian to intersect and change positions.

Jovetic 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
------------------------------------

---------------------Krul---------------------
Debuchy----Zouma----Bonucci----Ricardo
---------------------Pirlo---------------------
--------------Vidal------Pogba--------------
Sanchez---------Benzema---------Neymar

Neuer, Sciglio, Carvalho, Rabiot, Januzaj, Coman, Lacazette

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

Zouma and Bonucci are a solid pairing at CB for the CL, on this occassion Bonucci will man mark the CF, quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, will keep the CF away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any thought he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Zouma 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 Bonucci if needed.
Ricardo and Debuchy at fullback, when we attack one goes at a time the other sits back. When they attack I want them bombing down the wing over lapping the winger to allow them to cut inside, quick passing between the two to get them passed the opposition fullback, which will see the fullback drive towards the bye line to get a quick cross in. If its not a cross then look for the winger inside to play a quick pass back to them so they can drive into the box. Defending both will have to be vigilant and always mindful of the tricks the opposite winger can do. Be onto them quickly not allowing them the time to get going, push them out wide and stop them becoming a threat.

Pirlo is my playmaker, he controls the game with his, at time simplistict passing, not the quickest player Pirlo leaves that sort of exertion to his youthful midfield partners Vidal and Pogba. Instead, patrolling an area not much more extensive than the centre circle, he sits in front of his back four, firing out quarterback-type passes, occasionally ambling forward to take a free-kick. Although not lightning quick he is very difficult to get the ball from. At times he just takes a touch and makes the opposition look very silly. This gives him the time to ping the passes about with time and ease. His style will frustrate the opposition they will begin to fly in with rash tackles which he will merely walk away from, with ball at feet. Defending he will be aided by Pogba and Vidal who will do the marking job on the two most advanced midfielders. Both extremely hard working lads who will get up and down the pitch helping both defence and attack. They sit as a threewith Pogba taking care of the AM when he comes forward. They will break up play and get it moving forward, most likely Vidal to burst forward to assist Benzema. His goal record for a CM is decent and can score from various angles/ranges, he is a very dynamic player with great stamina, one who never gives up. With pogba and Pirlo 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 Pirlo 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.

Sanchez and Neymar are class. Both quick with nimble feet which more often than not takes them passed the fullback, wether they knock it passed them and drive on or simple a quick turn, and there away. Will have fullbacks supporting them so this allows them to pass and cut inside where both are very useful. Give and go, wait for the return and go for goal, or look to drive into the box in support of Benzema. Neymar focusses more on the ttricks and twists to see him passed, whereas Sanchez likes to make the pass that gives him time to look for space for him to drive into and wait for the return. Both very dangerous and with support from there respective fullbacks we will be a danger out wide. When defending look to get back and stop there defenders becoming a threat, With Benzema as the middle man all three will drive at the BM 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 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 go for goal when possible.

Captain - Vidal
Pens - Sanchez
Free Kicks - Pirlo
Corners - Wingers

Subs

Losing
70 Lacazette for Pirlo 442
80 Coman for Debuchy sit behind strikers 3412
85 All out attack

Winning -
75 Carvalho for Pirlo

forget Lacazetter sub ineligable

Losing Januzaj for Pirlo, Sanchez up front

ASTON VILLA

4-2-3-1

_______________________Navas_______________________
Zabaleta____________Mertesacker_____Koscielny___________Shaw
_______________Fernandinho____Kroos________________
Koke___________________Kagawa__________________Son
______________________Sturridge_____________________
SUBS: Begovic, Toprak, Vela, Gustavo, Gerrard, De Bruyne, Destro

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

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

Koke - Fernandinho - Kroos - Kagawa
Sturridge - Son

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Losing:
75 mins: Fernandinho OFF Destro ON
Go 4-2-4 with Destro Sturridge centre Koke right Son left. Kagawa supports, Kroos holds and sprays passes from deep. All out attack, have to go level at least if not win it. When we lose the ball Koke goes central to provide support in centre mid and Sturridge goes to the right to provide that outlet. Switch back when we have the ball. Both full backs go forwards in turns and we will squeeze them back into their 18 yard box. Our CBs will not stick too close to the striker in case they get turned, Koscielny will be ready to chase back towards goal while 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 Toprak ON
Whatever minute: Kagawa OFF De Bruyne ON
They’re gonna pen us back whether we like it or not, so we will go 5-4-1 with Toprak slotting into a back 5. Koke will come into the centre along with Kroos with De Bruyne right and 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.

sorry the above came out a bit wrong

_______________________Navas_______________________
Zabaleta________Mertesacker_____Koscielny___________Shaw
_______________Fernandinho____Kroos________________
Koke___________________Kagawa__________________Son
______________________Sturridge_____________________
SUBS: Begovic, Toprak, Vela, Gustavo, Gerrard, De Bruyne, Destro

Europa League
MANCHESTER UNITED v SportoBenfica

---------------Zieler
Rafael Evans Vertonghen Telles
-------------Veljkovic
--------Oztunali - Barkley
Bellarabi-----------------Welbeck
---------------Dzeko

Subs: Buffon, Alves, Stark, Khedira, Oscar, Fabregas, Tevez

SportoBenfica will be tough but I think we can get at them with our system. Playing a 4-3-3/4-5-1 with Veljkovic playing DM, a solid back four behind him, and Oztunali and Barkley in creative box to box roles, as soon as we're on the ball I want us to create chances and have a go at the SportoBenfica defence.

Zieler - 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.

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

Rafael/Telles - I want you both to stay with the SportoBenfica wingers. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. When we have possession, push forward and support Bellarabi/Welbeck 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 Dzeko and link with Oztunali/Barkley. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Veljkovic - Your job is to patrol the back four, stop their AM being able to get involved in the game. In possession give the ball to Oztunali or Barkley, allow them to create while you stay back. Make sure you protect the defence at all times.

Oztunali/Barkley - both of you playing in box to box roles, without the ball play alongside Veljkovic, both of you to close down the SportoBenfica midfielders breaking from deep and work hard to win back possession. With the ball I want both of you to be creative, make late bursts into the area for the crosses coming in. Be around the 20-25 yard mark when crosses are cleared as both of you are very adept at long range shooting. Still try and win back possession with Veljkovic even if it isn't your forte. In possession you have creative licence to seek out the wingers and fullbacks making runs out wide, and look on occasion for the ball over the top to Dzeko. Link the play between Bellarabi, Welbeck and Dzeko. Drift in and out of the AM position to drag the SportoBenfica DM out of position.

Bellarabi/Welbeck - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the SportoBenfica 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 Dzeko with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Oztunali and Barkley, and capitalise on the space Dzeko's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.

Dzeko - you will be expected to occupy the SportoBenfica centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. If they double mark you, drop wide and swap with Welbeck to leave him unmarked and near the goal. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind and get you one on one with the keeper. Look for Oztunali and Barkley playing the ball over the top and make sure you're timing your runs perfectly.

Subs 70 mins:
If winning or drawing: No change
If losing: Veljkovic and Oztunali off, Fabregas and Tevez on. Switch to 4-2-4, Fabregas and Barkley CM, Tevez and Dzeko upfront with Bellarabi and Welbeck wide forwards. Fullbacks bomb forward. Push for goals.

———————————--—Ryan
Corchia————Denayer-------------Terry———Azpilicueta
----------------------Tielemans—————Matic
Griezzman——————————Garcia----------------Keita
----------------------------------Hernandez

Subs: Hassen, Kalas, Nainngolan, Matuidi, Rooney, Costa, Origi

Captain: John Terry
Free Kicks: Antoine Griezzman
Corners: Antoine Griezzman
Penalties: Raul Garcia

We set up in as a 4-5-1 looking to play with energy and control of possession, pressing them quickly into mistakes, closing off the space and slowing their tempo with fouls if needed whilst controlling possession and moving the ball at pace.

The front four close down with intense pressure, stopping the opposition back line being able to play the ball out into midfield, force them back to the keeper and long or wide to the FBs. Garcia and Hernandez close on the CBs whilst the two wide attacking midfielders squeeze inside and block the route to the midfield. FBs push up to force wingers back, leave them no space. If they do get it forward quickly, Tielemans and Matic cover with a strong tackle and slow them down(foul if we have to).

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

If from stage one they get the ball central we set up with two banks of four and the two forwards dropping in to press the deeper midfielders, if the midfielders get beyond those two they will have Matic and Tielemans to get through. We squeeze the space in the midfield, keep the lines compact with the two wide attackers moving out to stop the FBs if they overlap and they contract if they get numbers central. Keeping the lines tight allows us to squeeze the ball if they get it to the strikers. If they are really pushing us back, fall to defend the 18 yard box, FBs tuck in alongside the CBs to give us to compact banks of four, only pushing wide if they do, keep disciplined, wait for the chance to break.

When we have the ball we want to control the game with good possession, but not dallying on the ball, we have a lot of pace, power and flair in this team and we want that to reflect in our attacking play. Plan A will see us using lots of movement, moving the ball quickly in the area we win it, taking advantage of compact defending to be able to spring forward with one touch passing, quickly breaking into the final third and using our four attacking players and one FB on the side of attack. The two wide men have the license to attack wide or from central, with one holding width when we break down his flank, linking with the FB to create the overlap, whilst the other will come central and look to make use of free space to provide an overload, either down the wing where we are building, or centrally to give us three central attackers against their defence. The FB and winger must interchange, at times the FB going to the byline where he can find space to cross or open up room for the winger to cut in, and other times making underlap so the winger can get to the byline and into the box to pull it back. We then want movement between the forwards, Garcia will usually look to come to the ball and use Hernandez and the wingers running off him, however sometimes Hernandez will drop deeper to hold it up and the others make runs off him. Plan B is the more physical approach, looking to hit Garcia early, cutting out their midfield and allowing him to push it wide for the wide attackers to spring forward at pace, this will be extra threatening if we are defending deep and Garcia has dropped to half way, with more space for us to run into. Make use of these counters but also be more focused in possession, keep the ball circulating and don't give them easy ball possession.

Individual:

Ryan commands his area, collecting crosses and distributing quickly.

FBs tight to the CBs, don’t give the foreigners forwards space to play in, with the back four tight it allows them to cover each other if one is beaten.

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

Matic use his energy, close their midfielders down, especially the AM and break up attacking moves quickly. Tielemans to be the lnk between it all, get the ball and move it into space. Dominate the midfield.

Front 4 = quick and adaptable. Work hard off the ball, attack with precision. Garcia provides extra power, the other three the speed and movement. Attack quickly, be clinical. Keita comes in to be more direct runner, force them backwards.

Subs:
If Winning: Costa on for Hernandez 70', comes on to provide greater hold up play. Matuidi for Tielemans 75'. Rooney for Keita 80', Garcia wide. Keep the ball, no letting them come on to us.

If Drawing: Rooney for Garcia 70'. Origi for Keita 75'. Costa for Hernandez 80'.

If Losing: Rooney and Costa for Hernandez and Garcia 70', play a 4-4-2, put extra pressure on their defence. Matuidi for Matic 75', provides a surging runner from midfield to drive us on to them.

-----------------------Cech
Piszczek------Cahill--------Chiellini-----Bernat
------------Bender--------Clasie
Kuba------------Schwein------------------Di Maria
---------------------Lavezzi
Subs: Veltman, Akpoguma, Vadillo, Stendera, Swift, Zelalem, Rekik

Subs

Zelalem for Clasie – 80 mins

GAME PLAN

We need to be in their faces by continuously pressing them and keeping all men behind the ball (when we are off the ball). When on the ball we need to be direct and composed. We need to use our wingers as much as possible because that is where I believe we can take advantage of Bilbao. Their full backs will be attacking a lot and leaving plenty of gaps behind them. Kuba and Di Maria have the pace to punish them. We need to dominate the midfield battle and control the game how we want it to be controlled. We need to control possession and work the ball into spaces. Try and keep it tight for them so when we get the ball we can exploit any spaces left. Bender is the DM so he will stay back to protect our defence while our other midfielders will be focusing on the attacking side of the game. Be in their faces, make them uncomfortable and then hopefully we will be able to take advantage.

POSITIONAL TACTICS

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

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

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

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

I want Kuba 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 Di Maria to do the same.

Schwein should use his pace and strength to make runs into the box and opening up space for Lavezzi. 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 Schwein, Di Maria and Kuba to intersect and change positions.

Lavezzi 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

Swansea tactics

----------------------------Diego Alves-----------------------
Cacares-----Rami--Papadopoulos---Albiol----Maxwell
------------------Illarramendi-----Tadic-------------------
---Enner Valencia--------------------------Cerci---------
-----------------------------Negredo--------------------------

Subs: Yedlin, Rio, Oviedo, Ince, Salah, Lanzini, Rondon

General: Smash and grab...literally. We have to play hard and ulta-defensive with a burst of injection pace when we counter. We cannot allow the likes of Aguero and Ronaldo an inch of space and be isolated 1v1. As soon as either are on the ball, two nearest players will be on them like a flash. We have the quality and numbers to protect and we have seen that they are weakened at the back so when we attack, we do it with pace and power and directness. We believe that our trio of Negredo, Cerci and Valencia have the pace and skill to hurt their defence and work with open spaces when they have to commit forward. We are strong in our tackles and cannot waste the ball when we receive it. We have to be compact and hound their midfield if they are in shooting range and mark every player very tight. We will put our bodies on the line and stay focussed until the end.

Alves
Will be alert for longe range shots and should parry it away to safety. He has to be constantly helping the defence by telling them for potential attacks and get the defence alligned with the help of our capt, Albiol. Be aggressive in the air and take no prisoners.

Defence
The back 5 will be marking zonally but have to be brave and strong in tackles but not make any uncessary tackles for Ronaldo to take a dive...as we know he is king at that. We want to play fair but be the aggressor. Aguero and Ronaldo will be marked by two players WHEN they receive the ball in dangerous areas. The central midfielders will be pressed and as they have commited most people forward, we try and intercept and distribute to Valencia who will burn past his man and we can start our counter. All three CB's to go up for the corners and set-pieces and will be targeted so we can snatch a goal or two and stick to our plan.

Midfield
Illa and Tadic will be competing hard in that mdfield and working in tandem with our CB's but closing down midfielders and but not going to ground. Stay central and press the midfielders as thety advance to our goal about 35/40 yards and stay with them. They will receive help by another player and it will make them. Attacking wise, only Tadic will be allowed to advance forward and make a late run as we have no build up play and will be just be direct on the wings and targeting their vulnerable defence.
Cerci and Valencia will be starting in midfield and helping our full-backs at times just to be another body for them to beat but Valencia in particular will be our go-to person as their LB will not be able to handle his power and pace when he runs at goal. Cerci will be more tactical and when he receives the ball, he will try and feed in Negredo or Valencia and join in.

Negredo
Lone striker but he will start as an attacking midfielder and help our midfield chase the defenders down but not drift in deep as we need an outlet so he stays on the half way line as the max. Attacking wise, he will have space so he needs to be on his toes and run into space.

Subs: Yedlin for Cerci 75mins: More pace in Yedlin and target slow defenders and take them on.

Oviedo for Maxwell 70mins: Fresh legs and a good solid defender that has the pace and energy to keep up with his opponents.

wrong page kam

Barcabilbao v Chelsea
Birmingham v Madrid

Romentina v Man Utd
Portsmouth v PSGonaco
Aston Villa v B.Munich
Liverpool v Arsenal

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

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

------------De Rossi---------Modric

-Coutinho----------Goetze-----------Berardi-

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


Substitutes:
ter-Stegen; Kongolo; Targett; Mason; Gaitan; Anderson; Welbeck

Captain: De Rossi
Penalties: Lewandowski
Corners: Coutinho
Free Kicks: Goetze


Game Plan:

Just like Borussia Dortmund this season, we are determined to turn our poor domestic form around with a cracking European performance. With the impetus set, we want to explode in this game right from the off. We have been watching numerous clips of Guardiola's Bayern Munich since our poor showing at West Brom and we have been working on a high pressing game that puts pressure on the opposition back line, forcing them backwards and narrowing down their options upfield.

We will be looking to implement this high pressing game with optimum efficiency, having the two closest players close down the man on the ball while the other players close down the space behind, giving our opponents no option but to pass back to the keeper or hammer the ball upfield themselves. We don't want to allow PSGonaco any space or time to maneuver about the pitch. We want to be brash, in-your-face and we aim to take the game directly to them in order to make the most of our home tie.

We know that PSGonaco have a great player up front in Ibrahimovic so we will work to cut off all supply points to him and have Hummels and Pepe stick close to him, pushing him around and attempting to wind him up so that he doesn't play at his highest level.

The other main threat from PSGonaco is on the flanks so Coutinho and Berardi will be expected to track back at every opportunity on the wings. Our aim is to stop any attacks from wide before they even enter our half so that their wingers and full backs can't overlap. By crowding out the centre of the pitch and closing down their back 4, we think we can achieve this effectively without expending too much energy.

In attack, we want to string enough passes together to disrupt the organization in the opposition ranks and find space for the attackers. We don't need to rush in to attacks straight away as we have enough pace and acceleration to cause PSGonaco problems at any opportunity. Our players are talented enough to keep the ball for extended periods, moving the ball around the pitch and looking to pick holes in the opposition defence. With Berardi, Goetze and Coutinho constantly roaming around the pitch and Lewandowski providing a constant threat up front, we feel that we have enough goalscoring talent to cause havoc in the PSGonaco defence.


Individual Plan:

Lloris: Great shot stopper. He will be looking to command his area and make sure PSGonaco can't threaten us with crosses.

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

Pepe + Hummels: Will stick close to Ibrahimovic and battle him for every ball. Making sure he can't control the ball, flick it on to any other players or take a shot himself. If Berbatov is playing, too, Hummels will look to mark him out of the game.

De Rossi + Modric: De Rossi will play the holding role, breaking up any play in the centre of the park, thus releasing Modric to play a more expansive style. Modric will look to close down the ball in the middle of the park and chase down every loose ball.

Coutinho, Goetze + Berardi: Given the opportunity to roam around the pitch, dragging players out of defence. They will always be on the lookout for that ball or run in behind the defence. Will never stop moving - harrying off the ball, threatening when on it.

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


Substitutions:

65 minutes: Welbeck for Lewandowski: Welbeck has pace and the determination to run about the pitch. He will be looking to close down whomever is on the ball and he'll try to play in our other attacking players.

70 minutes: Mason for Modric: Mason will provide that extra bit of grit and determination to keep control of the midfield. He will be looking to recycle possession with short simple passes.

75 minutes: Anderson for Coutinho: Playing in his preferred Right Wing-Forward role, Anderson is equally adept at scoring and providing goals. He will be striving for a late goal, no matter the score.

ASTON VILLA

3-4-1-2

_______________________Navas______________________
___________Can________Toprak_____Koscielny_________
Zabaleta______Fernandinho_____Kroos____________Shaw
______________________De Bruyne___________________
_____________Sturridge____________Dost_____________
SUBS: Begovic, Umtiti, Mertesacker, Lucas, Gerrard, Son, Lacazette

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Losing:
75 mins: De Bruyne OFF Lacazette ON
Essentially going 3-4-3 where Lacazette will join Sturridge and Dost up front. Offers the option for the others to find him to run onto the ball.

------------------------------Courtois
De Vrij-----------Garay-------------Terry-------Azpilicueta
----------------------Matic---------Kondogbia
--------Oscar-------------------------------------Asamoah
--------------------Griezmann
-------------------------------Costa

Subs: Ryan, Luis, Verratti, Tielemans, Lamela, Thauvin, Balde Keita

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


We expect Arsenal to come out and look to control the possession which we are comfortable with. We will set up to defend with a compact back line and a group of 6 who will work in a group to stifle Arsenal by compacting the area of the pitch they have the ball in, defending from our half of the field. Offensively we look to break with quick balls to the Cfs in order to bypass their midfield and get a defence that is normally positioned deep, whilst their midfielders look to press high, which leaves us an awful lot of space to attack into.

We will defend our half of the field in order to draw United out as we are confident in our organisation at the back and this allows us a better chance of exploiting the space arsenal do leave between midfield and defence. We will defend with a compact back four and a group of 6 in front who will look to focus on defending space, only engaging the man when they look to move into that space, in order to keep an organised shape and not step out and leave gaps. The first defensive stage will begin on half way, with the front two pressing the CMs, whilst the four behind remain compact and close off the midfield options, this should hurry the CMs up and force the wide pass out to the FBs/Wingers. If we get the ball wide we are at our most comfortable, the four then respond by positioning themselves so that two can press the man on the ball(eg Oscar/Matic on the left) whilst the other two midfielders and the two forwards close in so that we can surround Arsenal in this section of the field, defending in vertical lines. Press them quickly so they have to rush the passes, either sideways to the CMs, who will be covered by the CFs to allow us time to reorganise and defend the next vertical section of the field, or towards the striker, who if he is first to the ball will have defenders on him immediately so he can't take control of the situation. The second stage of our defending is if they manage to move their attack into our third of the pitch, once more it is our widemen engaging theirs, this time with Greizmann looking to track the FB and Costa remaining upfield to help us counter. The FB will move towards the situation so that he can step in quickly if the wideman is beaten so arsenal can't get in a free cross. The rest of the team set up centrally, the DMs and opposite wideman covering the space to stop the AMs and the remaining 3 defenders nice and compact so any ball that comes infield we have players ready to step in and break it up straight away and any cross is headed away with a midfielder there to get to the lose ball first.

Stage 3 is if they get the ball to a central player despite Costa and Griezmanns pressing. Here we defend narrow, with two compact banks of four, and the two forwards deeper so that the deep midfielders are always under pressure, any mistake from them leaves us in an excellent position to counter and hit their defence. We again focus on space, allowing them possession but in the areas where they can't hurt us and as soon as a player does drop into dangerous space centrally and the ball is moved towards him, the man closest to him is immediately on him with the rest their to cover off the passing routes. The widemen stay compact so that the midfield can move across their line as the situation dictates and the defence is together so that any attempt at a ball over the top or into the channels is pointless, there won't be the space for that. Again if they get into our third we remain organised, the players don't have specific marking duties as we expect a lot of moving around from Arsenal, only we engage the man if he's in dangerous space. If the ball is moved wide, our wideman is first to come across and engage, in the final third supported by his FB as already stated above. If the ball goes into the CF on the edge of the box he has Terry on him, battling on the ball, the other defenders in position so that the channels can't be used and one two's are easily dealt with. We want to use our power to limit their possession to sideways and back, in particular if we get them wide we can defend crosses with ease and attempts to cut inside will leave them with way too many players to get through and no space for shots or through balls. Key is to not give Aguero, Ronaldo, Di Maria or Silva any space anywhere in attacking positions.

As soon as the ball is won we want to play it into the strikers, looking to always bypass their midfield and therefore their pressing. Oscar, Matic, Terry etc are all capable of a ball over the top for Costa to bring Griezmann into play, or a through pass into their feet so they can speed away. Once the ball is up with those two, Asamoah with his pace and Oscar with his vision and movement will get forward in support. We want to attack a frail back line, especially getting Costa up against Chambers, looking to bully him, whilst Griezmann can stretch the game with wide runs or use his pace against the CBs to get in on goal, whilst Asamoah runs the left flank to stretch the remaining defenders and Oscar looks to get in position to pick the killer balls or attack the area with a late run. If we struggle to get the ball forward, we will use Kondogbias power to run through the midfield.

Subs:

If Winning: Verratti for Oscar 70', comes on does the same job in harassing them in wide areas and sticking with his midfielders when they attack centrally, ability to carry the ball forward too. Luis for Asamoah 75', better on the ball to allow us to be even better at breaking beyond their pressing, defends in the same manner as Asamoah did. Keita for Griezmann 80', fresh legs and a major attacking threat on the break, will give Arsenal something new to deal with and strike fear into the left over defenders.

If Drawing: Verratti for Oscar 70', like for like defensively with ability to carry the ball into attack. Tielemans and Keita for Kondogbia and Griezmann 80', fresh energy in the side, Tielemans has the power to battLe but also possesses a great range of passing to help us counter, whilst Keita is a different kind of threat to their defence, raw pace and skill to run at them.

If Losing: Luis for De Vrij 65, Azpi to RB, look to use the FBs in more offensive areas to stretch Arsenal. Verratti for Kondogbia 70', can get us more of a foothold in possession and start to create more sustained attacking pressure. Keita for Asamoah 75', 4-2-3-1 with Oscar down the centre so we keep the ball better and Keita on as something new to hurt Arsenal, use his pace and skill to open them up down the left and get crosses in for Costa, Griezzman and Oscar to attack.

Romentina v MANCHESTER UNITED

Injuries: Jonny Evans, Ben Davies, Frank Lampard, Nathan Redmond

---------------Mandanda
Rafael - Sokratis - Howedes - Gaya
------------Vilhena - Pirlo
-----Milner - Firmino - Lavezzi
----------------Lukaku

Subs: J.Pereira, Subotic, Stark, Perez, Fabregas, Schurrle, Rooney

Tough but winnable game away to Romentina, they have some world class players in their side, however we have some world class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front four with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a trio who can dictate the game in Pirlo, Vilhena and Firmino. Milner plays at RW to give us better workrate on the right wing without losing creativity and Lukaku plays upfront to give us a more physical impact against their defence.

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

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

Rafael/Gaya - Both of you to force the Romentina 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 Milner/Lavezzi 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 Lukaku and link with Firmino. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Vilhena/Pirlo - Vilhena the box to box man, assist the CB's in dealing with the Romentina attack, when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls and in possession look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out. Pirlo is the deep lying playmaker, also able to assist at DM but with more creativity, link the play between defence and attack. Remain composed throughout.

Firmino - Playing the AM role, with the ball I want you to drift left and right, drag their DM out of position as they will be assigned to track your runs, swap with Milner and Lavezzi on occasion to create confusion and leave space for your teammates to run into. Link with Lavezzi, Milner, Lukaku and Pirlo, look for Lukaku 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.

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

Lukaku - you will be expected to occupy the Romentina 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: Firmino off, Perez on. Switch to 4-5-1, Perez giving us better defensive cover alongside Vilhena and Pirlo. Absorb pressure and hit on the break.

If drawing: Milner and Lukaku off, Schurrle and Rooney on. Two like for like changes, same system but a more attacking winger in Schurrle and a different approach upfront in Rooney. Same formation but more attacking threat, push for the winner without overcommitting.

If losing: Gaya, Milner and Vilhena off, Rooney, Fabregas and Schurrle on. Switch to 3-1-4-2, back three of Rafael - Sokratis - Howedes, Pirlo the quarterback, Schurrle - Fabregas - Firmino - Lavezzi behind a front two of Rooney and Lukaku. Push for an equaliser in this "must not lose" game.

--------------------Cech
Lahm---Jones----Chiellini---Gibbs
-------------------Bender
-----------Silva---------Yaya
Ronaldos---------------------------Di Maria
------------------Aguero

Subs – Foster, Chambers, Kolarov, Ramsey, El Sharaawy, Giroud, coquelin

70 – Ramsey For Bender– Swap positions with Yaya
75 – Giroud for Ox – swap positions with Ronaldo
83 – Coquelin for Silva – Move next to Yaya in a 4-2-3-1 with Ramsey ahead and Ronaldo and Di Maria on wings.

Ramsey – Comes on to control possession and create a few more goalscoring opportunities
Giroud – Become the target man and poach some goals
Coquelin – Create a defensive wall to prevent the opposition from breaking us down in the last few mins and also take advantage of their lack of energy.

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


Game Plan – For todays game we’re going to try and take the game to Liverpool. We want to crowd out the midfield and slow the game out due to the pace that their side behold. Griezmann has been on terrific form this season so In order to keep him and their other top players out of the game we shall keep the game edgy and cancel them out.

Our most important players today are our central midfielders. All three will be looking to stick to their positions and reduce the amount of space through the middle. This will push the play out wide where I believe we can win the battle. If by some miracle Liverpool get an attack and cross it in, I am 99.9999999999% sure that my centre backs and other defensive minded players can deal with it. We shall keep the defence quite deep today. During an attack they shall not go any further than half way their half, the central 3 players shall stay around the centre circle with only one of silva or yaya allowed to attack at any one time. The other three players have the license to roam around the pitch.

On the attack we shall be looking to plant the ball to the wingers who will be looking to use their skill and pace to get the ball to Aguero. One of Silva or Yaya shall go up to help but will only hang around just outside the box when the ball is in their end. Aguero will always be looking for space in the box so he will always be a target for someone.

On the defensive side all three central players shall stay together in their positions and the two wingers will act as wing backs to reduce the space the Liverpool players behold..

Overall I want my team to play the majority of the game keeping the game slow, physical and breaking up play as much as possible. We want to show them no respect on the pitch and allow for time wasting. We shall keep the game edgy and push their team back.

Positional Tactics:

Lahm 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 Lahm should try and push the player back. If he can’t do that he should push him out wide to a position where he has to kick the ball off. Gibbs should play the same way.

Jones 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 Jones.

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.

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

I want Ronaldo 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 Lahm cover their full back. I would like Di Maria to do the same.

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

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

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


Captain: Yaya
Vice Captain: Chiellini
corners : Silva
Pens and FKs: Ronnie

Romentina 0 v 2 Man Utd
Lukaku(Pirlo), Pirlo(FK)
MOTM - Pirlo

Portsmouth 3 v 2 PSGonaco
Lewandowskix2(Gotze, Berardi), Gotze(FK)
Ibrahimovicx2(Digne, Kurzawa)
MOTM - Gotze

Liverpool 2 v 0 Arsenal
Costa(Oscar), Griezmann(Costa)
MOTM - Costa

Aston Villa 2 v 1 Munich
Dost(Sturridge), Gerrard
Muller(Pen)
MOTM - Sturridge

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

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

------------De Rossi---------Modric

-Coutinho----------Goetze-----------Berardi-

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


Substitutes:
Horn; Kongolo; De Sciglio; Nainggolan; Goretzka; Anderson; Welbeck

Captain: De Rossi
Penalties: Lewandowski
Corners: Coutinho
Free Kicks: Goetze


Game Plan:

Just like Borussia Dortmund this season, we are determined to turn our poor domestic form around with a cracking European performance. With the impetus set, we want to explode in this game right from the off. We have been watching numerous clips of Guardiola's Bayern Munich since our poor showing at West Brom and we have been working on a high pressing game that puts pressure on the opposition back line, forcing them backwards and narrowing down their options upfield.

We will be looking to implement this high pressing game with optimum efficiency, having the two closest players close down the man on the ball while the other players close down the space behind, giving our opponents no option but to pass back to the keeper or hammer the ball upfield themselves. We don't want to allow PSGonaco any space or time to maneuver about the pitch. We want to be brash, in-your-face and we aim to take the game directly to them in order to make the most of our home tie.

We know that PSGonaco have a great player up front in Ibrahimovic so we will work to cut off all supply points to him and have Hummels and Pepe stick close to him, pushing him around and attempting to wind him up so that he doesn't play at his highest level.

The other main threat from PSGonaco is on the flanks so Coutinho and Berardi will be expected to track back at every opportunity on the wings. Our aim is to stop any attacks from wide before they even enter our half so that their wingers and full backs can't overlap. By crowding out the centre of the pitch and closing down their back 4, we think we can achieve this effectively without expending too much energy.

In attack, we want to string enough passes together to disrupt the organization in the opposition ranks and find space for the attackers. We don't need to rush in to attacks straight away as we have enough pace and acceleration to cause PSGonaco problems at any opportunity. Our players are talented enough to keep the ball for extended periods, moving the ball around the pitch and looking to pick holes in the opposition defence. With Berardi, Goetze and Coutinho constantly roaming around the pitch and Lewandowski providing a constant threat up front, we feel that we have enough goalscoring talent to cause havoc in the PSGonaco defence.


Individual Plan:

ter-Stegen: Great shot stopper. He will be looking to command his area and make sure PSGonaco can't threaten us with crosses.

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

Pepe + Hummels: Will stick close to Ibrahimovic and battle him for every ball. Making sure he can't control the ball, flick it on to any other players or take a shot himself. If Berbatov is playing, too, Hummels will look to mark him out of the game.

De Rossi + Modric: De Rossi will play the holding role, breaking up any play in the centre of the park, thus releasing Modric to play a more expansive style. Modric will look to close down the ball in the middle of the park and chase down every loose ball.

Coutinho, Goetze + Berardi: Given the opportunity to roam around the pitch, dragging players out of defence. They will always be on the lookout for that ball or run in behind the defence. Will never stop moving - harrying off the ball, threatening when on it.

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


Substitutions:

65 minutes: Welbeck for Lewandowski: Welbeck has pace and the determination to run about the pitch. He will be looking to close down whomever is on the ball and he'll try to play in our other attacking players.

70 minutes: Nainggolan for Modric: Nainggolan will provide that extra bit of grit and determination to keep control of the midfield. He will be looking to recycle possession with short simple passes.

75 minutes: Anderson for Coutinho: Playing in his preferred Right Wing-Forward role, Anderson is equally adept at scoring and providing goals. He will be striving for a late goal, no matter the score.

ASTON VILLA

3-4-1-2

_______________________Navas______________________
________Mertesacker____Toprak_____Koscielny_________
Zabaleta_______Koke______________Kroos________Shaw
______________________De Bruyne___________________
_____________Sturridge____________Dost_____________
SUBS: Mertesacker, Cole, Coleman, Gustavo, Fernandinho, Son, Pelle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Should probably swap Lloris for ter-Stegen in goal and Horn on to the subs bench thanks to that injury.

Europa League QF 2nd leg
MANCHESTER UNITED (2) v Romentina (0)

Injuries: Manquillo, Sokratis, Perez, Davies

----------------Mandanda
Pleguezuelo - Evans - Stark - Gaya
-------------------Pirlo
-------------Milner - Vilhena
A.Pereira -------------------- Lavezzi
-----------------Lukaku

Subs: Buffon, Debuchy, Subotic, Khedira, Fabregas, Hazard, Rooney

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

Tough but winnable game at home to Romentina, we won the away leg 2-0 so tonight is about closing out the tie and securing our passage to the semi final. They have some world class players in their side, however we have some world class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front four with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a trio who can dictate the game in Pirlo, Vilhena and Milner. Andreas Pereira plays at RW on debut with Lavezzi at LW, giving us terrific pace and trickery out wide. Lukaku plays upfront to give us a more physical impact against their defence.

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

Evans/Stark - Evans to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Stark 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.

Pleguezuelo/Gaya - Both of you to force the Romentina 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 A.Pereira/Lavezzi 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 Lukaku and link with Milner/Vilhena. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Pirlo - Playing as the deep lying playmaker, also able to assist at DM but with more creativity, link the play between defence and attack. Remain composed throughout.

Milner/Vilhena - Both of you playing the box to boxrole, both assist the CB's in dealing with the Romentina attack, when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls and in possession look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out. Take turns at bursting forward to join the wingers and Lukaku.

A.Pereira/Lavezzi - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Romentina 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 Lukaku with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Milner/Vilhena, and capitalise on the space Lukaku's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.

Lukaku - you will be expected to occupy the Romentina 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 on aggregate: A.Pereira off, Khedira on. Switch to 4-5-1, Khedira giving us better defensive cover alongside Vilhena and Pirlo, Milner moves to RW. Absorb pressure and hit on the break.

If we're losing on the night but still ahead on aggregate and need to secure the tie: Stark and A.Pereira off, Subotic and Khedira on. Solidify the spine of the side with Subotic alongside Evans at CB and Khedira joining Pirlo and Vilhena in CM, Milner moves to RW. Close out the tie.

If drawing on aggregate: A.Pereira, Milner and Lukaku off, Schurrle, Fabregas and Rooney on. Three like for like changes, same system but a more attacking winger in Schurrle, more experienced creativity in Fabregas in midfield, and a different approach upfront in Rooney. Same formation but more attacking threat, push for the winner without overcommitting.

If losing on aggregate: Gaya, A.Pereira and Vilhena off, Rooney, Fabregas and Schurrle on. Switch to 3-1-4-2, back three of Pleguezuelo - Stark - Evans, Pirlo the quarterback, Schurrle - Fabregas - Rooney - Milner behind a front two of Lavezzi and Lukaku. Push for goals in this "must not lose" game.

----------------------Neuer----------------------
Darmian-----Varane-----Laporte-----Ricardo
----------------Pogba-----D.Blind---------------
Pereyra------------Sterling-----------Memphis
---------------------Cavani----------------------

Karius, Bazoer, Coman, Neymar, Blind, Vietto, Morata

In goal Neuer, 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 Laporte are a solid French 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. Laporte alongside will mark any big men that come up for corners etc strong in the air and strong ion the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger, will help out Varane if needed. If Laporte start with a big No.9 they will simply switch roles.

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

We go with Blind and Pogba in the centre of midfield, two absolute workhorses, can both defend and attack, when we defend they will work together to shut there midfield down the AM (Blind) and second most advanced CM (Pogba), they will close down everything very quickly and not allow there players any time on the ball whatsoever, once the ball is won, then Pogba will be the one mostly to drive on into support Sterling and Cavani, Blind will stay backjust in case Both good on the ball and Pogba has a great eye for goal, can shoot from a variety of angles. Always looking to mix it up with who drives orward so no one can be particulary mark him look out for Pereyra and Depay coming inside and put some nice crisp through balls into them and Sterling and Cavani.

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

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

Cavani will get plenty chances, he must put away this Barca side who will be solid at the back. Get into positions that he can go for goalor at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Good in the air and two good feet, can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front four will be a threat today we must go for it and keep pace with the league leaders. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Sterling and Pogba running into support.

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

Captain - Neuer
Pens - Cavani
Free Kicks - Ricardo (Direct)
Corners - Wingers

Subs -

Losing -
70 Mins - Vietto for Pereyra, get close to Cavani and Sterling on the RW
80 Mins - Morata for Cavani and Neymar for Depay

Winning - 75 Mins - Rabiot for Sterling, shift into cm alongside Pogba, Blind drops in behind
85 Misn - Morata for Cavani

Drawing
70 Mins - Neymar for Pereyra switch with Sterling and Morata for Cavani

Sub should say Rabiot not Blind