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Basingstoke Town tactics.

Week 3 vs Sekh pussssssssies

4-2-3-1

----------------------Cesar--------------------
Carvajal---Marquez---Zouma---Kurzawa
--------------Ramsey-- Carvalho----------
Chadli-----------Quintero--------Boetius
--------------------Rossi--------------------

Subs: Mersin, Rekik, Vilhena, Gnabry, Gayle

Captain - Marquez
Vice - Rossi
Corners & FKs (L) - Quintero
Corners & FKs (R) - Rossi
Pens - Rossi

Today is a game where we plan on digging deep and getting back to basics, as a first win is vital, especially at home. Our gameplan is to play our game, as we're the home team and try and dictate the play and get on top of the cats. We have a great blend of youth and experience with some impressive talent in the side and our aim is to press high up the pitch and control the opposition, whilst the guile and movement of our front four will prove incredibly difficult to stifle.

Cesar - A vastly experienced goalkeeper who is at his peak in 'keeper years. He will know what's expected of him with a young defence in front of him aside from Marquez, he will be key in keeping concentration levels in the team high. Aside from this he is a quality shot stopper and will be expected to command his area, be quick off his line (as we will be playing a high line) and be big if he's caught one on one.

FBs - The fbs are both young, extremely talented and have a great engine on them. At times they will be offering the width we need to stretch the defence, so their running will be valuable to us. First and foremost I want them defending though, only going forward when the opportunity is perfect and only one of them at a time to keep us from being hit on the counter.

CBs - A classic mix of youth and experience today. Whilst we line up as a back 4, our formation is almost really a 1-3-2-3-1, with Marquez as the one behind the defence. Whilst he will line up alongside the rest of the defence and generally sit in alongside the line, he will be dropping off as soon as he spots the danger coming. Basically, we will be playing a high line to press the other team, but not necessarily an offside trap as Marquez has license to drop off and snuff out any through passes before they come to anything if he likes. He can also hold up attacks while the extremely fast 3 around him get back in positions. Whilst Marquez is calling the line and has a complex role to meet his experience levels, Zouma's will be a lot more simple. When the CF comes into Zouma's in the central of defence Zouma will get right to him and give him a torrid time with his strength, aggressive and pace, allowing Marquez to work around him.

Carvalho - Will also be key today in breaking up attacks from a cat side that like to move the ball well and quickly, he will be our anchor man looking to sit in front of the defence and break up attacks where possible and make sure the defence is never vulnerable. He will also be important to defend counter attacks, with a cynical foul if necessary! Overall he will be in it to hit the feline midfield hard and fast early on and make them think twice when they're on the ball from then on, panicking them into mistakes.

Ramsey - Today he will sit alongside Carvalho in a deep lying role, but doing more of the running and pressing against the feline MF. He nearly got dropped today due to his real life form, but given how well he ended the season I thought it's only fair to keep faith in him. I want him back to basics, recycling possession in the deep areas and starting our attacks. Putting the opposition under a lot of pressure and making the late runs from deep that make him such a goalscoring threat.

Quintero - Playing with us for a full season now, with a team around him playing to his strengths I feel Quintero could have a really big season, starting here! It will be a challenge as the cats set up intelligently to stifle any gaps for opposition players, but I feel it's a challenge he'll relist. He can beat players, shoot from distance and he has 3 fast players ahead of him, interchanging with great moving to try and pick out with passes. This season could be brilliant for him.

Chadli and Boetius - Both get to play the games that are natural to them, starting out wide and drifting into dangerous areas with well timed runs and intelligent movement. They're both powerful players and are good finishers so will really keep the opposition defence on their toes, also pushing the defence back giving more room for Quintero and with their constant movement distracting the defenders it should allow Rossi the half a yard he needs to do the damage. Free to interchange wings at will.

Rossi - The missing piece of the jigsaw, the world class CF we've been missing all last year and he will make us such a scary proposition going forward. HIs pace, movement and finishing are all equisite and IMO he's almost on par with someone like Aguero. He just gets to play his natural game, working hard and trying to find the space, which he will be aided by thanks to the players around him.

Subs - all straight swaps with the intention of keeping our energy levels high.

65 mins - Vilhena and Gnabry on for Ramsey and Boetius.

80 mins - Gayle on for Rossi.

FL FART vs Notts County tactics


-----------------------1. Jefferson---------------------

23. Vd Wiel---4. Rami--13. Albiol---6. Schennikov

--------------------22. Kondogbia--------------------

-----------8. Wijnaldum---24. Toure Y------------

---11. Shaqiri--------------------------7. Insigne---

-------------------------19. Ba------------------------


SUBS:
5. Cambiasso
8. Fofana
15. Vlaar
16. Piazon
17. Hernandez

*******************

Overview: Fart are up against Barcelona this week. Our opposition have a great technical young attacking midfield but I feel their defence is there to be got at. As such we'll set out our stall to defend from the front, aiming to press the opposition high up the pitch and keep the pressure on the defence so the opposition can never get the ball to their dangerous AMs.

This season Fart will look to be a slightly more proactive team than last year's counter-attacking unit - we have plenty of pace and power throughout the team and our full backs are both rapid and enjoy a good foray up the pitch. I'd like us to look to win the ball high up the pitch by pressing from the front and we'll keep the ball moving quickly with snappy short passes to feet. When our full backs are pushed forward we'll have triangles all over the pitch. With good quick passing and lots of movement we'll be a nightmare to defend against. We'll be tight and compact at the back when out of possession - Kondogbia is a monster of a defensive midfielder who gives great solidity when he drops back into defence as well as affording our other midfielders and full backs the opportunity to worry less about leaving space behind them when they push forwards. Toure in particular will love having Kondogbia as a shield behind him; he's freed up to bomb on and do what he does best.

Like I mentioned I'd like us to keep the ball on the deck and move it quickly to pull defenders out of position; both wingers and the striker will all look to get past the line of defence and in on goal, as will Wijnaldum and Toure. The counter will still be used when available; I expect Barcelona to play fairly high up the pitch and look to press us in our own half, so there'll be plenty of room behind their defence and midfield to exploit with our pace on the break.

*******************

Keeper - Jefferson
He'll be asked to keep things simple today. No sweeping or anything daft like that. Brazil's #1 will save whatever would go in the goal, and distribute it short or with a quick throw to the flanks or Toure/Wijnaldum.

Full backs: Van der Wiel and Schennikov
Same story - both are quick and dynamic and spring forward at pace and get round our wingers when they tuck inside. They have the gas to get up and down all match long. They will provide the width today with Shaqiri and Insigne being inside forwards, and Kondogbia will cover for them by tucking back into a back 3 when the full backs push on.

Centre backs: Rami and Albiol
Both CBs are excellent all-rounders, good in the air and comfortable on the ball, both strong and quick. Rami is a born leader, physically immense and not afraid to scream his head off to keep his back line organised. The CBs will not be bullied by any striker; the full backs and DMs will be tasked with closing down the attacking mids aggressively and spotting and blocking off any gaps in front of our defence that Barcelona might look to exploit before we banging forward on the counter. The centre halves will distribute the ball quickly to our wide players and Wijnaldum/Toure on the counter.

Defensive midfield: Kondogbia
Kondogbia is the lynchpin of the midfield, a master of interceptions and a terrifying physical presence. When the full backs bomb on Kondogbia will drop back into a back 3 and will play as the sweeper between Rami and Albiol. When we're in possession he'll make himself available in front of the defence for simple passes and he'll keep the ball moving with quick and simple short balls. If a Barcelona attacking midfielder gets anywhere near the ball, Big Geoffrey is the man to shut them down with his pace, power and tenacity in the tackle.

Midfielders: Wijnaldum and Toure
Completing the 3Bs (Big Black Bástards) in midfield are my two players of the year from last season, Wijnaldum and Yaya Toure. Wijnaldum has filled out in the past couple of years and while he's not particularly tall he's solid and powerful. He'll be our main central creative outlet today but there's more to his game than that. Aside from being very tidy in possession he has great gas and a cracking engine; he'll get up in support of Ba up top but he'll also track back and help out in his own half too. He'll interchange nicely with the wingers and striker and he'll look to get well forwards on the end of through balls; as the creator he'll also be expected to play more through balls than anyone else, threading it along the ground to the wingers as they run inside their full backs. Toure will be asked to do what he does best; smash the opposition to pieces with his rampaging forward runs. He has Kondogbia covering behind him so he has no real defensive worries, and he has licence to break forwards like only Toure can, playing one-twos with the wingers and striker before bombing on past them and in on goal. The 3Bs should dominate the midfield matchup today; Barcelona are technically proficient but I don't expect them to be able to live with the power of my FART.

Wingers: Shaqiri and Insigne
New signing Xherdan Shaqiri and last year's Dream League PotY Insigne (inexplicably allowed out on loan by Tino - drunk on success clearly) will link up as Fart's inside forwards this week. Shaqiri is naturally left footed and Insigne is a rightie, and they line up on the opposing flanks a la Robben and Ribery. Both players are short but feisty with low centres of gravity affording them great balance on the dribble; both are quick, both very creative and both have stonking shots from range on them. Shaqiri is built like a brick and is almost impossible to stop. I'll be looking for them to play similar games here, coming in off their flanks and driving at the opposition defence. When they beat a man that will leave a space for the striker and/or the onrushing Wijnaldum/Toure to push into and receive through balls from Shaqiri/Insigne, or leaving room for the overlapping full back to receive the ball and put in a cross; alternatively the opposition defender will have his hands full covering Ba or Wijnaldum/Toure as they make a run, freeing up a gap for Shaqiri/Insigne to attack before unleashing a shot from range or pushing on into the box to strike it from closer. Both wingers will pose a significant goal threat today as they always do. They also have licence to switch flanks if play is becoming congested in the middle; both have the pace to beat a man round the outside and cut it back for Ba/Wijnaldum/Toure. If they switch flanks and operate as conventional wingers, the full backs will be expected to push forwards less.

Striker: Ba
Ba is the perfect man to lead the line solo. He's strong, quick, good in the air and has a great eye for goal. He'll bring his all-round game to this match; according to the situation he'll drop deep (pulling the centre half out of position leaving a gap for the attacking midfielders), or he'll play off the shoulder (waiting for the through ball and simultaneously freeing up space in front of the Barcelona defence for the attacking midfielders to run into and play through balls behind the defence or go for goal from range). When Shaqiri and Insigne do switch flanks Ba will play right off the last defender, looking to push aggressively past the penalty spot to get on the end of crosses and cutbacks. Most importantly he'll hassle and harry and deny the Barca team any time on the ball as we know they can use it well when they have the chance.

Captain: Rami
Free kicks: Insigne
Penalties: Toure Y
Corners: Shaqiri (R); Insigne (L)

*******************

IF WINNING:
Insigne off for Piazon, 75 mins - Like for like.

Toure Y off for Fofana, 80 mins - Like for like.

Wijnaldum off for Cambiasso, 80 mins - Cambiasso drops in to sit alongside Kondogbia as we solidify to see out the win.

*******************

IF LOSING/DRAWING:

Vd Wiel off for Vlaar, Schennikov off for Hernandez, Wijnaldum off for Cambiasso, 75 mins: we go all out attack in a 3-2-3-2:

-----------------------1. Jefferson---------------------

----------4. Rami---13. Albiol---15. Vlaar-----------

----------19. Cambiasso--22. Kondogbia-----------

-7. Insigne---------24. Toure Y--------11. Shaqiri-

--------------17. Hernandez----19. Ba----------------

Insigne and Shaqiri swap wings to give us some natural width. Kitchen sink time.


PEACE

Oops, copied a bit about Insigne from a previous week - obviously he's not on loan any more

CAN YOU DELETE MY FIRST SET? I HAVE SOLD BALANTA AND WISH NEW SIGNING ROMAGNOLI TO BE ON BENCH INSTEAD

-------------------Costeels------------------
----------Cannavaro---T.Blackett----------
Byram---------------------------------P.Evra
---------Illaramendi----Paul Pogba---------
--------------------Barkley-------------------
A.El Ghazi-------------------------Bahebeck
--------------------Gignac---------------------

Romagnoli, Fletcher, S.Kurt, Guidetti, G.Puscas

In goal Costeels, 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.

Cannavaro and Blackett come in at CB, Cannavaro comes in and we feel his vast experience is vital to play alongside Blackett and its upto Blackett to claim the CB slot alongside Cannavaro, with Balanta breathing down his neck pn paper they are a solid pairing at CB, on this occassion Blackett will man mark the CF, he is calm and composed, 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. Cannavaro 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 Blackett if needed and double up on the CF if he is causing problems.
Byram and Evra at fullback, when we attack one goes at a time the other sits back. More than most Evra will be doing the attacking, Byram will venture forrward sporadically. 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.

Illarramendi back into the DM role sits just in front of the two cbs, along with Cannavaro & Blackett they will look to keep the opposition away from the danger area, he stops there flow between midfield and attack, always watchful for the AM and when they come forward he will look to intercept any through balls or look to stop his runs forward. Even when we attack he is always mindful of the players movement and ready to act quickly if they break forward. Once the ball is won simple balls to those around him. He will be aided when we defend by Pogba and Barkley either side of him Both extremely hard working lads who will get up and down the pitch helping both defence and attack. They sit as a three with Pogba taking care of the most advanced CM when he comes forward. They will break up play and get it moving forward, most likely Barkely to burst forward to assist Gignac. He is decent in front of goal and can score from varous angles/ranges, he is a very dynamic player with great stamina, one who never gives up. He will thrive with Pogba in the midfield who will look after him and encourage him throughout and they will be no pushovers with Illarramendi behind them. Pogba is sort of mix of the two, can pass the ball about, defend the lines and also break forward from deep areas. A very cool head for such a young lad. Look to pick up from Illarramendi and drive forward looking for more advanced passing to those in front of him or push forward with the ball with barkely this time sitting just a bit behind. We must dominate the midfield and get the ball out to the skillfull wingers who will look to destroy their fullbacks.

El Ghazi and Bahebeck come in for ther injured Jese and Janu, looking also to impress and are both lightning quick with nimble feet which more often than not takes them passed the fullback, wether they knock it passed them and drive on or simple a quick turn, and there away. Will have fullbacks supporting them so this allows them to pass and cut inside where both are very useful. Give and go, wait for the return and go for goal, or look to drive into the box in support of Gignac. Bahebeck focusses more on the tricks and twists to see him passed, whereas El Ghazi 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 Gignac as the middle man all three will drive at the opposition defence.

Gignac 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 Gignac will be looking to drag the CB away freeing up room for the other two to drive into. With Pogba/Barkley also supporting we are a huge goal threat to anyone. I want quick football, ball to feet and always looking up for a pass..Gignac is as good a poacher as there is atm so look to get it to him whenever possible.

Captain - Pogba
Pens - Gignac
Free Kicks - Barkley
Corners - Wingers

Subs
Losing
70 Mins Guidetti for Barkley 4-4-2
80 Mins - Romagnoli for Byram 3 at the back, Evra to LM, Bahebeck off, George Puscas on at CF 3-4-3

Winning
70 Mins - Fletcher on for Barkley sit on the right of Illarramendi
80 Mins - Guidetti for Gignac

Drawing
70 Mins - Guidetti for Gignac, Sinan Kurt for Bahebeck, freshens things up

-------------------Costeels-----------------
M.Kelly--Cannavaro--Romagnoli--P.Evra
---------Illarramendi-Daz Fletcher--------
------------------Paul Pogba----------------
Jese Rodriguez------------Adnan Januzaj
--------------------Gignac-------------------

Bossaerts, Medran, Bahebeck, El Ghazi, Guidetti

In goal Costeels, 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.

Cannavaro and Romagnoli come in at CB as we look to find a combination for the rest of the season. Cannavaro is vastly experienced is vital to play alongside Romagnoli and its upto him to claim the CB slot alongside Cannavaro, with Blackett breathing down his neck pn paper they are a solid pairing at CB, on this occassion Romagnoli will man mark the CF, he is calm and composed, 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. Cannavaro 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 Romagnoli if needed and double up on the CF if he is causing problems.
Kelly and Evra at fullback, when we attack one goes at a time the other sits back. More than most Evra will be doing the attacking, Kelly will venture forrward sporadically. 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.

Illarramendi back into the DM role sits just in front of the two cbs, along with Cannavaro & Romagnoli they will look to keep the opposition away from the danger area, he stops there flow between midfield and attack, always watchful for the AM and when they come forward he will look to intercept any through balls or look to stop his runs forward. Even when we attack he is always mindful of the players movement and ready to act quickly if they break forward. Once the ball is won simple balls to those around him. He will be aided when we defend by Pogba and Fletcher either side of him Both extremely hard working lads who will get up and down the pitch helping both defence and attack. They sit as a three with Fletcher taking care of the most advanced CM when he comes forward. They will break up play and get it moving forward, Pogba to burst forward to assist Gignac. Pogba is given a more forward role and more freedom where he is more dangerous to the opposition. He is decent in front of goal and can score from varous angles/ranges, he is a very dynamic player with great stamina, one who never gives up. My midfield will work hard and have a little bit of everything and they will be no pushovers with .

Jese and Janu come back, looking also to impress and are both lightning quick with nimble feet which more often than not takes them passed the fullback, wether they knock it passed them and drive on or simple a quick turn, and there away. Will have fullbacks supporting them so this allows them to pass and cut inside where both are very useful. Give and go, wait for the return and go for goal, or look to drive into the box in support of Gignac. janu focusses more on the tricks and twists to see him passed, whereas Jese 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 Gignac as the middle man all three will drive at the opposition defence.

Gignac 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 Gignac will be looking to drag the CB away freeing up room for the other two to drive into. With Pogba/wingers also supporting we are a huge goal threat to anyone. I want quick football, ball to feet and always looking up for a pass..Gignac is as good a poacher as there is atm so look to get it to him whenever possible.

Captain - Pogba
Pens - Gignac
Free Kicks - Jese for goal, Pogba to put into box
Corners - Wingers

Subs:-

Losing
70 El Ghazi for Fletcher, Pogba drop deep, Jese supporting Gignac and El Ghazi to RW
80 Guidetti for Januzaj -Jese to the left, Guidetti up top 442

Winning - 80 Mins - Medran for Fletcher to shore things up v any new midfielders
85 Mins Guidetti for Gignac

Drawing
70 Mins - El Ghazi & Guidetti for Januzaj & Gignac, Jese LW, El Ghazi RW, mix it up a little

Basingstoke Town tactics.

Week 5 vs Fruity FC

4-2-3-1

----------------------Cesar--------------------
Carvajal---Marquez---Zouma---Kurzawa
--------------Ramsey-- Carvalho----------
Chadli-----------Quintero--------Boetius
--------------------Rossi--------------------

Subs: Fabianski, Reyes, Kramer, Gnabry, Milik

Captain - Marquez
Vice - Rossi
Corners & FKs (L) - Quintero
Corners & FKs (R) - Rossi
Pens - Rossi

Today is a game where we plan on digging deep and making ourselves hard to beat away from home and carrying on our unbeaten run of 1 game! Our gameplan is to play our game, as if we're the home team and try and dictate the play and get on top of Soufeeend. We have a great blend of youth and experience with some impressive talent in the side and our aim is to press high up the pitch and control the opposition, whilst the guile and movement of our front four will prove incredibly difficult to stifle.

Cesar - A vastly experienced goalkeeper who is at his peak in 'keeper years. He will know what's expected of him with a young defence in front of him aside from Marquez, he will be key in keeping concentration levels in the team high. Aside from this he is a quality shot stopper and will be expected to command his area, be quick off his line (as we will be playing a high line) and be big if he's caught one on one.

FBs - The fbs are both young, extremely talented and have a great engine on them. At times they will be offering the width we need to stretch the defence, so their running will be valuable to us. First and foremost I want them defending though, only going forward when the opportunity is perfect and only one of them at a time to keep us from being hit on the counter.

CBs - A classic mix of youth and experience today. Whilst we line up as a back 4, our formation is almost really a 1-3-2-3-1, with Marquez as the one behind the defence. Whilst he will line up alongside the rest of the defence and generally sit in alongside the line, he will be dropping off as soon as he spots the danger coming. Basically, we will be playing a high line to press the other team, but not necessarily an offside trap as Marquez has license to drop off and snuff out any through passes before they come to anything if he likes. He can also hold up attacks while the extremely fast 3 around him get back in positions. Whilst Marquez is calling the line and has a complex role to meet his experience levels, Zouma's will be a lot more simple. When the CF comes into Zouma's in the central of defence Zouma will get right to him and give him a torrid time with his strength, aggressive and pace, allowing Marquez to work around him.

Carvalho - Will also be key today in breaking up attacks from a cat side that like to move the ball well and quickly, he will be our anchor man looking to sit in front of the defence and break up attacks where possible and make sure the defence is never vulnerable. He will also be important to defend counter attacks, with a cynical foul if necessary! Overall he will be in it to hit the Southend midfield hard and fast early on and make them think twice when they're on the ball from then on, panicking them into mistakes.

Ramsey - Today he will sit alongside Carvalho in a deep lying role, but doing more of the running and pressing against the feline MF. He nearly got dropped today due to his real life form, but given how well he is going in the season on here I thought it's only fair to keep faith in him. I want him back to basics, recycling possession in the deep areas and starting our attacks. Putting the opposition under a lot of pressure and making the late runs from deep that make him such a goalscoring threat.

Quintero - Playing with us for a full season now, with a team around him playing to his strengths I feel Quintero could have a really big season, starting here! It will be a challenge as the cats set up intelligently to stifle any gaps for opposition players, but I feel it's a challenge he'll relist. He can beat players, shoot from distance and he has 3 fast players ahead of him, interchanging with great moving to try and pick out with passes. This season could be brilliant for him.

Chadli and Boetius - Both get to play the games that are natural to them, starting out wide and drifting into dangerous areas with well timed runs and intelligent movement. They're both powerful players and are good finishers so will really keep the opposition defence on their toes, also pushing the defence back giving more room for Quintero and with their constant movement distracting the defenders it should allow Rossi the half a yard he needs to do the damage. Free to interchange wings at will.

Rossi - The missing piece of the jigsaw, the world class CF we've been missing all last year and he will make us such a scary proposition going forward. HIs pace, movement and finishing are all equisite and IMO he's almost on par with someone like Aguero. He just gets to play his natural game, working hard and trying to find the space, which he will be aided by thanks to the players around him.

Subs - all straight swaps with the intention of keeping our energy levels high.

65 mins - Kramer and Gnabry on for Ramsey and Boetius.

75 mins - Milik on for Rossi.

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

FL FART vs Miami tactics


-----------------------1. Jefferson---------------------

23. Vd Wiel--4. Rami (c)--13. Albiol--6. Schennikov

-------------8. Fofana----22. Kondogbia--------------------

---11. Shaqiri----10. Wijnaldum----18. Cartabia---

--------------------17. Hernandez---------------------


SUBS:
5. Cambiasso
14. Bakkali
15. Vlaar
16. Balanta
19. Correa

*******************

Overview: Fart are up against Miami this week having been royally fúcked over by injuries with Toure and Mandzukic both out. Our opposition have a good solid team throughout and I'm assuming they'll play their excellent young attacking midfield but I feel they have a lack of pace throughout their defence which is there to be got at by stretching play and pulling defenders out of position - I don't think they have the pace to recover. As such we'll set out our stall to defend tight and press hard against their dangerous midfield, but ultimately to be fluid up front to ruin their defence's marking system.

We have plenty of pace and power throughout the team and our full backs are both rapid and enjoy a good foray up the pitch. I'd like us to look to win the ball as soon as their midfielders get a sniff by pressing all over the pitch and we'll keep the ball moving quickly with snappy short passes to feet. When our full backs are pushed forward we'll have triangles all over the pitch. With good quick passing and lots of movement we'll be a nightmare to defend against. We'll be tight and compact at the back when out of possession - Kondogbia is a monster of a defensive midfielder who gives great solidity when he drops back into defence as well as affording our other midfielders and full backs the opportunity to worry less about leaving space behind them when they push forwards. With Toure out, Fofana will step in as a more defensively solid replacement, but one who can bomb forward just as effectively as Yaya on his day.

Like I mentioned I'd like us to keep the ball on the deck and move it quickly to pull defenders out of position; both wingers and the striker will all look to get past the line of defence and in on goal, as will Wijnaldum and Fofana, the latter only when the time is right. The counter will still be used when available; I expect Miami to play fairly high up the pitch and look to press us in our own half, but if (as I assume) Illaramendi plays they'll have a man back at all times so it's important we get numbers forward.

*******************

Keeper - Jefferson
He'll be asked to keep things simple today. No sweeping or anything daft like that. Brazil's #1 will save whatever would go in the goal, and distribute it short or with a quick throw to the flanks or Toure/Wijnaldum.

Full backs: Van der Wiel and Schennikov
Same story - both are quick and dynamic and spring forward at pace. They have the gas to get up and down all match long. If as expected Januzaj and Jese play off the Miami striker, I'd like my full backs to tuck in tight alongside the centre halves when Miami push forwards. I don't want to leave any big gaps the Miami wingers can exploit, and Fofana and Kondogbia will cover for them by hurrying across to double up on the winger.

Centre backs: Rami and Albiol
Both CBs are excellent all-rounders, good in the air and comfortable on the ball, both strong and quick. Rami is a born leader, physically immense and not afraid to scream his head off to keep his back line organised. The CBs will not be bullied by any striker and they're quicker than Gignac, who I expect to be Miami's main forward threat; the full backs and DMs will be tasked with closing down the attacking mids aggressively and spotting and blocking off any gaps in front of our defence that Miami might look to exploit before we banging forward on the counter. The centre halves will distribute the ball quickly to our wide players and Wijnaldum/Toure on the counter. Kondogbia will drop into a back 3 when the full backs do push on, to give a bit of extra defensive reassurance.

Defensive midfield: Fofana and Kondogbia
Kondogbia is the lynchpin of the midfield, a master of interceptions and a terrifying physical presence. When the full backs bomb on Kondogbia will drop back into a back 3 and will play as the sweeper between Rami and Albiol. When we're in possession he'll make himself available in front of the defence for simple passes and he'll keep the ball moving with quick and simple short balls. If a Miami attacking midfielder gets anywhere near the ball, these two are the men to shut them down with their pace, power and tenacity in the tackle - they're both comfortably over 6 foot and they're both quick and very powerful indeed. Fofana will double up with Vd Wiel on the Miami left winger and Kondogbia will double up on the Miami right winger with Schennikov. Fofana comes in to the team instead of Toure today, and he performs much the same role, albeit with a greater emphasis on defence. He's got a bit of everything - he's not just a big lump - and he's very dangerous banging through the middle to get behind the opposition midfield. He has a stonking shot from range which I'll encourage him to use, but he's equally as dangerous acting as a second playmaker and slipping balls (heh) through to the strikers and wingers.

In the hole: Wijnaldum
Wijnaldum has filled out in the past couple of years and while he's not particularly tall he's solid and powerful. He'll be our main central creative outlet today but there's more to his game than that. Aside from being very tidy in possession he has great gas and a cracking engine; he'll get up in support of Ba up top but he'll also track back and help out in his own half too. He'll interchange nicely with the wingers and striker and he'll look to get well forwards on the end of through balls; as the creator he'll also be expected to play more through balls than anyone else, threading it along the ground to the wingers as they run inside their full backs. With Fofana and Kondogbia doing most of the donkey work today, Wijnaldum can concentrate purely on his playmaking and the goal threat he himself offers, although his energy in pressing the Miami midfielders will also be invaluable today.

Wingers: Shaqiri and Cartabia
Xherdan Shaqiri will play as an inside forwards as usual this week. Shaqiri is naturally left footed, and he lines up on the opposing flanks a la Robben. He's short but feisty with a low centre of gravity affording him great balance on the dribble; quick, very creative and with a stonking shots from range on him, Shaqiri is built like a brick and is almost impossible to stop. I'll be looking for him to come in off his flanks and drive at the opposition defence. When he beats a man that will leave a space for the striker and/or the onrushing Wijnaldum/Fofana to push into and receive a through ball, or leaving room for the overlapping full back to receive the ball and put in a cross; alternatively the opposition defender will have his hands full covering Ba or Wijnaldum/Toure as they make a run, freeing up a gap for Shaqiri to attack before unleashing a shot from range or pushing on into the box to strike it from closer. Shaqiri will pose a significant goal threat today as he always does. Young Valencia winger Cartabia is more of an unknown quantity but he's an excellent and extremely skilful and quick prospect in a similar mould to Miami's Jese, similar to Pablo Piatti, albeit with touch of David Silva chucked in for good measure. He's very quick and extremely technical, and will line up on his natural left side as a more orthodox winger than Shaqiri. He'll look to get in behind the Miami left back and whip in dangerous crosses - dribbling and crossing are his particular strengths. I mentioned he's got a bit of David Silva about him though - and to that end Cartabia is free to drift off his flank a bit and open up gaps for Schennikov to drive into, and Cartabia will aid Wijnaldum in playmaking duties. He's a classy young player and I have no issues chucking him in to replace the suspended Insigne today.

The wingers also have licence to switch flanks if play is becoming congested in the middle; both have the pace to beat a man round the outside and cut it back for Ba/Wijnaldum/Toure. If they switch flanks the full backs will be expected to push forwards less as Shaqiri will cover Schennikov at left back less than the bustling Cartabia.

Striker: Abel Hernandez
Hernandez is the perfect man to lead the line solo and he's shown his strengths this year at Hull and has been rewarded with a TM valuation boost of almost 100%. He's strong, quick, good in the air and has a great eye for goal, with his tendency to take shots on early being particularly difficult for opposition keepers to deal with. He'll bring his all-round game to this match; according to the situation he'll drop deep (pulling the centre half out of position leaving a gap for the attacking midfielders), or he'll play off the shoulder (waiting for the through ball and simultaneously freeing up space in front of the Miami defence for the attacking midfielders to run into and play through balls behind the defence or go for goal from range). Hernandez will also relish having Cartabia on the flank as the youngster will put plenty of dangerous crosses for the big Uruguayan to attack by playing right off the last defender, looking to push aggressively past the penalty spot to get on the end of crosses and cutbacks. Most importantly he'll hassle and harry and deny the Miami team any time on the ball as we know they can use it well when they have the chance.

Captain: Rami
Free kicks: Shaqiri
Penalties: Shaqiri
Corners: Shaqiri (R); Cartabia (L)

*******************

IF WINNING:
Cartabia off for Bakkali, 75 mins - Bakkali plays off the left as an inside forward to balance Shaqiri on the right.

Fofana off for Cambiasso, 80 mins - Like for like although Cambiasso will not get forward as much as Fofana and will afford extra defensive protection.

Wijnaldum off for Balanta, 85 mins - Balanta moves to the left of a back 3 with Rami in the middle, Albiol on the right. Our wingers pull back into a flatter midfield shape and we hold out for the win in a 5-4-1.

*******************

IF LOSING/DRAWING:

Vd Wiel off for Vlaar, Schennikov off for Correa, Fofana off for Cambiasso, 75 mins: we go all out attack in a 3-2-3-2:

-----------------------1. Jefferson---------------------

-----------4. Rami---15. Vlaar---13. Albiol----------

----------19. Cambiasso--22. Kondogbia-----------

-18. Cartabia-------10. Wijnaldum--------11. Shaqiri-

--------------17. Hernandez----19. Correa----------------

Cartabia and Shaqiri swap wings to give us some more width. Kitchen sink time. Correa is a rapid and dangerous young Argentine striker who's signing for Atletico Madrid in January. He plays similarly to Aguero and will offset Hernandez's power nicely. He'll run the channels and drop deep to get the ball early before attacking directly.


PEACE

Week 4:

------------------------Enyeama-------------------------
Coke------------Luisao----------Abidal----------Castro
-------------------Britton----------Blind--------------------
-------Robben--------T.Hazard----------Pedro---------
------------------------Immobile-------------------------

Subs: Christensen, Hojbjerg, Halilovic, Afobe, Sakho

Balance. That is the key word in our focus this week.
We've not had problems scoring goals, but conceding them has cost us dearly.

We want to be a fluid attacking team, but also not leave ourselves exposed when our opponents attack. We have two energetic and versatile fullbacks, who will look to give us width in attacks, when one goes forward the other will stay back as not not leave any gaps. Britton and Blind will sit in front of the back 4, Blind's versatility means he can cover the LB and LCB positions if necessary. When out of possession we will look to nullify any spaces in our half, pressing them when they cross the halfway line, letting them pass it around in their own half. We will look to force our opponents onto their weaker foot, shutting down the routes they prefer to take.

Britton is going to be the man to make us tick, in terms of getting the ball out from our half. He'll have a variety of options and now with two genuine top quality wide men in Robben and Pedro and a young and hugely promising Thorgan Hazard in the middle, he should always have forward options on for a pass. To make sure of this we'll look to create triangles in possession so there will be holes to exploit.

Robben and Pedro are encouraged to take on their markers and will look to work off of Hazard to make their way through our opposition. Immobile's movement in front will be key in opening up spaces for hazard to play in Robben/Pedro.
For example, if Immobile peels off one way, his marker will track him, opening up space for the other wide man to run into.

Robben and Pedro, will look to go either way, inside and look for a shot on their strong foot or short pass to slide in Immobile/Hazard, or outside and look to get the ball across the box for Immobile and the other wideman at the far post. We want a bit of variety, though we will ultimately look to exploit the are we have most joy in.

We want to go at them from the off, catching them off guard. Quick short passing working our way through them. Once the game has settled we'll ease slightly and try to dictate possession, knowing at any moment we have the pace and ability to cut them open.


If losing after 65 minutes:

Sakho > Hazard - 4-2-2-2, with Pedro and Robben switching wings so they can cross on their stronger foot.

If winning after 70 minutes:

Hojbjerg > Hazard - Tighten up the midfield, won't push on as much
Sakho > Immobile - When the opponents push up he'll be able to run in behind with pace

Fishguard Sports AFC

Captain: Lucas Biglia
Corners: Bernardeschi/Fischer
Goal Scoring Opportunity Free Kicks: Biglia
Pens: Klaassen

Formation: 3-4-3 (Sweeper System)

----------------------------Ryan
---------------------------van Beek
-----------Engels---------------------Wimmer
-----------------------------Biglia
------------Baselli---------------------Klaassen
-----------------------------Praet
----Bernardeschi-------------------------------Fischer
-----------------------------Vietto


Starting: Ryan; Engels, van Beek, Wimmer; Biglia, Baselli (Gaudino), Klaassen, Praet (Andersen); Bernardeschi, Vietto, Fischer

Subs: Zelenika, Zappacosta, Günter, Gaudino, Andersen

We will line-up with two lightening quick wingers in Bernardeschi and Fischer patrolling each flank with the intelligent and technically superb Dennis Praet behind the equally gifted and pacy Luciano Vietto.

My intentions are to pack the midfield with Baselli, Biglia and Davy Klaassen protecting the back-three of Engels, Wimmer and Sven van Beek.

We will operate with van Beek as a sweeper. Pre-historic as it seems today, playing a sweeper will help to negate Andover’s threat in the attacking third. With the two most central attacking players (could be two forwards, could be a forward and an attacking midfielder) being picked up by Engels and Wimmer – this will leave van Beek to pick up stray balls, runs from deep and anything Andover throw at him.

We will be comfortable in having 3 defenders against the 2 most central attacking players, Engels and Wimmer will comfortably pick up an attacking player each and if they fail to control Andover’s forward line, van Beek is the contingency plan.


With Engels and Wimmer picking up these 2 most central attacking players our defence is narrow. This would give Andover’s wingers a lot of space to move forward. We will anticipate this by instructing our two central players – Baselli and Klaassen to track these runs.

With Baselli and Klaassen now tracking the runs of the wingers, it would leave Biglia outnumbered in midfield. Dennis Praet will always look to drop into midfield so that we will always have a spare man. This spare man again will be Sven van Beek – whose game intelligence and reading of the game will allow us to defend well.

When we are faced with doubling-up from our opposition (i.e. the opposition putting a winger and full back on to one of our defenders), we will use this to our advantage by switching the ball quickly and directly which will lead to our team finding an area of the pitch with no opposition player in. Such tactical nuances will be a distinct part of this Fishguard Sports team. This is an obvious and logical tactical ploy; this logical style of play will also be mixed up at times with a some individual flair – but expect at times for even talented players like Fischer to play a simple yet effective pass instead of attempting to pass his marker.

These tactics have proved that they can work by one of the greatest Ajax teams. The quick movement to an area where Blackpool may be a man-short will allow us to keep possession comfortably as well as creating opportunities. We will hope to have the opportunity to find space in the most predictable of positions on the pitch.

Biglia and Praet will always be available to receive the ball, and are capable of dissecting Andover’s midfield with ease.

Our flexible, hard-working system will allow us to have a spare-man available when Andover have the ball, but significantly, it will gave flexibility and strength in keeping possession. With Biglia and Praet both floating around the half-way line and attacking third respectively, we can move the ball with ease.

Andover may find it difficult to react to these players, as if they do move out of position to get closer to Praet and Biglia, the shape of Andover’s team may fall apart. If an attempt is made to combat the constant space we hope Praet will be receiving. This will only give slick-heeled Bernardeschi and Fischer more space to receive the ball.

My use of Klaassen and Baselli will also be of interest too. As well as having defensive responsibilities, they will be instructed to run from deep to connect with our wingers and forwards. It will be their late runs that will often be the most dangerous to penetrate Andover. To do this, both Baselli and Klaassen will show superb tactical understanding and discipline, not to mention supreme physical fitness. The combination of quick passing and runs from deep will be a constant menace for the Andover back-line. The implication of this will be that if Andover try to play a high-line to combat the threat of Praet, then Andover will have to drop deeper and deeper to negate the threat of our quick triangles through the midfield.

We will constantly be looking to stretch Andover’s defence with Bernardeschi and Fischer always looking to stay wide in the build-up of moves. It will therefore be unsurprising that either Klaassen or Baselli will be the ones to break the deadlock in this game.

Vietto will not operate as purely an out and out centre forward – as he will also have a license to come a little bit deeper for the ball and run at defences, putting his pace and ability on the ball to full use. In that sort of scenario I will allow Bernardeschi or Fischer to come a bit more central and make sure that Klaassen or Baselli push out a bit wider to cover - meaning we will still keep a good shape in attack and also be well set out if Andover do try a counter. When Bernardeschi or Fischer come a bit more central, this is where we will use our technical ability, acceleration and sheer pace to full effect. Bernardeschi, Vietto, Praet and Fischer’s collective creative partnerships will give even the sturdiest of defences a very testing time through their combined technical abilities and pace.


Subs:
75th Minute – Gaudino on for Baselli, Andersen on for Praet

Blyth 3-5-2

.................Reina...........
.........Jags..Barz...BMI......
Maggio..Delph..Pienaar..Robertson
..................Menez.....................
............Morata......Ba..............

Subs: Gordon,Souttar,Antonini,Bonaventura,Rodriguez

Capt: Barzagli
Free kicks: Menez
Corners: Menez
Pens: Morata

Tough game away at Arsenal at the best of the times let alone doing it without De Sciglio, De Rossi and Rabiot. Change of system today partly enforced and partly to nulify the the threat of Ibra, and countering the suspected use of the 4-2-3-1

We set up today to play fast paced counter attacking football, not possession for possessions sake but clever use of the ball altering the tempo of the game as required.

Reina - Generic stuff i'm afraid, shave shots and collect crosses....will look for short throw outs to the wing backs but with Morata and Ba up top going long is also an option.

The defence

Back to the tried and tested 3 centre backs today, all 3 are rugged uncompromising defenders who will go about their duty with minimal fuss, nothing fancy play the way you're facing and keep it simple, everything else will take care of itself

Individual Duties:

Barzagli: The central centre back will man mark Ibra, where he goes (even dropping deep) Barz will follow using all his experience and dirty tricks to stop in his tracks, legally or not it doesn't matter...

Jags: Has played RB before so he's the RCB....No man marking as such but when Arsenal attack he shuffles right doubling up with Maggio on their LW/LB as and when required

Martins Indi: Has played LB before so he's the LCB....No man marking as such but when Arsenal attack he shuffles left doubling up with Robertson on their RW/RB as and when required.

Maggio/Robertson: Both posses great pace and engines and are obliged to give us the width needed in a naturally narrow set-up...The luxury of having 3 CB's means they have more freedom to push on knowing that they're covered, their main duty is to peg back Arsenals rampaging forwards, If Kam keeps his full backs back and our defence is coping against Arsenals wingers then they are allowed to push further forwards as we look to overload the final 3rd of the pitch.

The midfield
Injuries have robbed us of the muscle in the middle of the park but Delph and Pienaar have great work rate and no little skill, this today will be of use to us as we look to harry Arsenal disrupting their rhythm with niggly fouls and pressuring their players into rushed passes by pressing hard. One will push one will sit as we attack so that we always have a minimum of 4 men back defending.

Menez - The number #10 is in fantastic form this season for Milan and is given the freedom to roam the pitch whether it be dropping deep for the ball or making a late surging run, going past the front 2...He's very quick and very direct a real nightmare for any defence.

Morata/Ba - 2 big strong units and deceptively quick..Ideally Morata will play as the target man holding the ball up and trying to roll his marker before getting shots away, Ba will be the "fox in the box" playing off the shoulder of the last man looking to exploit the space using his speed and power to manufacture one on one opportunities.

Subs:
Winning/Drawing 65 mins
Jay-Rod > Ba
Like for like change, fresh legs running at a tiring defence as we look to smash home our advantage

Bonaventura > Menez
As above like for like...One Milanista for another

Subs 65 mins
Kitchen sink time

Jay-Rod > Barzagli
we switch to a 4-2-4 and start an aerial bombardment overloading the centre of Arsenal's defence

................Reina..................
Maggio...Jags...BMI....Robertson
..........Pienaar....Delph................
Menez.....Ba.....Morata.....Jay-Rod

Notts County vs Barcelona tactics

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

Darmian---------Bonucci-----------Manolas-----------Bernat

------------------------------Iturraspe-------------------------------

------------------Thiago------------Tielemans--------------------

Brahimi------------------------------------------------------Depay

-------------------------------Alcacer--------------------------------

subs: Stones, Aranguiz, Meyer, Traore, Dybala

Game plan: our plan today is to go at Barcelona from the off, everyone will be fired up and raring to go and looking to add to our decent start to the season. We will look to press high up the pitch and condense the space in the midfield. Successful pressing is dependant on group understanding, collective perception of ball, opponent and team mate, and a massive amount of hunger and desire to have the ball. It isn’t possible to press for 90 minutes. We will have to pick our times wisely in order to do it successfully. If our players are tracking back or not close enough to the ball it isn't sensible to press the ball, we will look to capitalise on poor passes by the opposition or when a player is facing his own goal or has his head down when receiving the ball, at these times to opposition player does not have a full view of the pitch and cannot pick a forward pass.

In possession we will have many lines of players in order to create easy triangles for the players on the ball, the player on the ball should always have at least 2 passing options, the full backs will also go forward creating an almost 3-4-3(2-3-2-3)formation when in possession, this reverts to a 4-1-4-1 formation when we lose possession.

In Possession

------------------------Bonucci-------Manolas------------------

Darmian------------------Iturraspe--------------------Bernat

-----------------Thiago-------------------Tielemans------------

Brahimi------------------------------------------------------Depay

----------------------------------Alcacer-----------------------------

out of possession

Darmian-----------Bonucci-------Manolas-----------Bernat

-------------------------------Iturraspe-------------------------------

Brahimi----------Thiago------------Tielemans---------Depay

---------------------------------Alcacer----------------------------------

Simone Scuffet: very young, but a fantastic goalkeeper, excellent shot stopper and very confident coming off his line, will look to release the ball quickly in order to start attacks, when he gets the ball the full backs will push forward and the centre backs will spread out offering themselves for the pass, will only go long if there is no other option.

Defence: as has been spoken about in the game plan section, the full backs will look to push up the field when we are in possession creating the multiple lines across the pitch which is the basis of our possession philosophy. The central defenders will look to stay close to one another when out of possession, the full backs will also tuck in leaving little room in the centre of the pitch as Barcelona will look to do most of their attacking through the middle, while the midfield and attack will cover the defence of the wide areas, this is not the specific job of one player as we are playing in a fluid system, it will be whoever is available to do the job at that point in time, our players have great discipline and concentration to perform in this system.

Midfield and Attack: Ander Iturraspe will by and large stay in position in the holding role in the midfield. He will look to snuff out space for the opposition attacking players, and always be available for a pass when we are in possession, possesses great strength and is a very tidy user of the ball. The 4 midfield players in front of Ander will play very fluidly, and as has already been stated they will look to press the opposition when the time is right, all 4 possess good pace and stamina and are able to get up and down the pitch.

Thiago and Tielemans will get up and down the pitch throughout, both are very quick and very creative and can carry the ball. Both will look to move the ball quickly, as will the whole team, we will play with a high tempo throughout the game not giving Barcelona any breathing space, without the ball they will look to pressurise the opposition in the centre of the pitch, but as spoken of earlier, only when it is sensible, no point doing it willy nilly and being picked off, we need to be very wary of the runs and movement of Barcelona's midfield and give them as little space and time as possible, this will be key to winning the match.

Yacine Brahimi and Memphis Depay will look to move wide when in possession, both have the ability to run at the opposition and will look to move inside at times and take the opportunity to shoot and link with Alcacer they both have the pace and movement to make runs beyond Alcacer in the centre forward positions, we are playing a very fluid system and will not just be looking to throw the ball into the box at every opportunity so their movment, pace and runs into the channels will be crucial in creating space and chances during the 90 minutes. When Depay and Brahimi do move inside, Darmian and Bernat will look to provide the outlet wide with overlapping runs.

Alcacer will play as the centre forward for us today, his pace, movement and energy suits the change in the way we are going to play, he will look to roam across the pitch, dragging defenders out of position which will leave space for the other attackers and our midfield to benefit from, as stated previously in the tactics he is part of the fluid front 5 we are playing with today so will pop in different areas of the pitch on occasion, we are not just going to throw the ball into the box at every opportunity so his running of the channels and his technical ability are crucial in the way we want to play.

Substitutions: Max Meyer for Yacine Brahimi on 70 minutes, switch to a midfield diamond, and look to keep the ball and be more patient in possession, the fullbacks Darmian and Bernat must now push higher up the pitch to provide the width

------------------------------Iturraspe----------------------------

-------------------Tielemans--------------Thiago-----------------

--------------------------------Meyer-----------------------------

------------------Depay---------------Alcacer---------------------

if Drawing/Losing after 80 Minutes, Paulo Dybala for Youri Tielemans, similar to the formation above with Alcacer in the middle, Depay left and then Dybala right of the front 3 in front of Meyer as the no10, Thiago and Iturraspe to play as a double pivot. The tempo of our play must increase and the speed with which we move the ball will also increase, we also have the option of going long into the channels because all 3 of our forwards are quick enough to break the defensive line and get in behind.

Captain: Bonucci
Freekicks n Corners: Thiago
Penalties: Thiago

Arsenal starting X1

---------------------------Bravo-------------------------------
Jara-----------De Vrij----------Fernandez----------Adnan
----------------------Gago------Silva-----------------------
--Haddadi-------------Sigurdsson--------------Perisic
--------------------------Ibrahimovic----------------------

Subs: Aranzubia, Cole, Xavi, Coman, Luiz Adriano

General: We have to dominate the midfield battle and it helps greatly that De Rossi and Rabiot is missing from their side due to injuries. We are playing the leaders so we have to take the game to them otherwise we will suffer. Vital that our passing tempo remains high and we have an attitude to go and win every 50-50 challenge centrally. We feel that our attacking players will have the better of their defence so the transition from defence to attack should be quick and with short passes. Defensively we have good in Silva and Gago and they shall be commanding our midfield and battling all day.
We shall try and find Ibrahimovic as much as possible, particular in threatening areas as we know he will hit the target.

Bravo - Has to be brave on set-pieces and when setting his wall, he has to have vision of the ball and set the wall on the other side. Will use his initiative on open play and if he comes out, his eyes should be fixated on the ball and not try to touch the opponent. Aggresive on corners too.

Adnan and Jara
Adnan to provide the energy down the left side and assisting Perisic whenever he can. However, he is a strong athletic defender and can tackle with precision. He will be looking to intercept and turning defence into attack quick. Jara on the other hand is more physical in his apprach and stamps his authority in every challenge and it sets a standard to the rest that he is not here to be technically brilliant. Just and simple and distributes the ball as simple but quick.

De Vrij and Fernandez
Two young and fit defenders that have international experience on their shoulders and have the know-how to play like veterans. De Vrij to captain the side after learning from Vidic. Fernandez to be the braver of the CB and attack the defender whilst De Vrij will keep his role as sweeping after Fernandez and making sure the the ball is cleared to safety. Both to co-ordinate themselves to win first and second ball in the air for both attacking and defending corners.

Gago and Silva
Even though Xavi is more creative, I have chosen Gago because of his defensive work when off the ball and he has a good understanding with Silva to when to attack and defend. Silva will be sitting and hovering looking for any potential midfielders to attack. He shall stand as the wall and tackle with authority. Gago will attack and look to find Ibra as well as the others and look to attack with his passing range. Gago to press the central midfield if they come into our half.

Perisic and Haddadi
Both very talented midfielders have a creative streak in their armour. Both are to target their respective full-backs if they are isolated. Use both Siggy and Ibra too and exchange short passes to feed each other. Perisic to also drift in a little and let Adnan bomb forward and use his pace to attack the goal. Defensively both should press the wide midfielders and stay with their man until they have a clear tackling opportunity.

Sigurdson
He can shoot from 30 yards with ease and is allowed to do so but also to look for Ibra and look for his movement. Sigurdson is a creative player and will look to help his players as much as possible. Defensive duties to drop back but not too deep as we want his talents to be displayed offensively.

Ibrahomovic
He will be moving a lot and looking to run into spaces if he is marked by 2 or more defenders. He can come a little short and hold the ball and feed in players that have made in behind their defence. Ibra has the licence to shoot from anywhere and we know he will hot the target. Defensively, stay with the last defender and chase them down but thats it. We need him to stay as high as possible for quick attacks as he spearheads it.

Subs: If winning: Coman for Perisic. 75mins
His pace provides threat and also helps Adnan defensively.

If losing: Adriano for Gago 70mins:
--------------------Ibra------------------
--------------------Adriano--------------
Adriano to play his natural game and will be assisted by Ibra who will feed him in and also gives defenders not to occupy with Ibra alone.

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

Leiva's said he's happy for me to swap out Clasie (suspended). I'll do it for Mandragora and put Glendon on the bench. Just keep the same role for Mandragora and swap any subs of him coming on for Cook.

Leiva

-------------------Costeels------------------
----------Cannavaro---T.Blackett----------
Ignjovski--------------------------Kolasinac
---------------Fletch----Pogba---------------
--------------------Barkley-------------------
El Ghazi------------Jese------------Januzaj


Medran, Gimenez, Rabiot, Asensio, Berisha

In goal Costeels, 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.

Cannavaro and Romagnoli come in at CB, Cannavaro comes in and we feel his vast experience is vital to play alongside Romagnoli and its upto him to claim the CB slot alongside Cannavaro, with Gimenez breathing down his neck pn paper they are a solid pairing at CB, on this occassion Romagnoli will man mark the CF, he is calm and composed, 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. Cannavaro 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 Romagnoli if needed and double up on the CF if he is causing problems.

Ignjovski and Kolasinac at fullback, when we attack one goes at a time the other sits back. More than most Ignjovski will be doing the attacking, Kolasinac will venture forrward sporadically. 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.

Fletcher is the main DM sits just in front of the two cbs, along with Cannavaro & Romagnoli they will look to keep the opposition away from the danger area, he stops there flow between midfield and attack, always watchful for the AM and when they come forward he will look to intercept any through balls or look to stop his runs forward. Even when we attack he is always mindful of the players movement and ready to act quickly if they break forward. Once the ball is won simple balls to those around him. He will be aided when we defend by Pogba and Barkley either side of him Both extremely hard working lads who will get up and down the pitch helping both defence and attack. They sit as a three with Pogba taking care of the most advanced CM when he comes forward. They will break up play and get it moving forward, most likely Barkely to burst forward to assist the front 3. He is decent in front of goal and can score from varous angles/ranges, he is a very dynamic player with great stamina, one who never gives up. He will thrive with Pogba in the midfield who will look after him and encourage him throughout and they will be no pushovers with Fletcher behind them. Pogba is sort of mix of the two, can pass the ball about, defend the lines and also break forward from deep areas. A very cool head for such a young lad. Look to pick up from Fletcher and drive forward looking for more advanced passing to those in front of him or push forward with the ball with barkely this time sitting just a bit behind. We must dominate the midfield and get the ball out to the skillfull wingers who will look to destroy their fullbacks.

The front three are quick and dynamic, I want them set up as is but can all rotate if need be, no out an out strker but all quick and good in front of goal, I want all three driving at the opposition with the cms bombinmg forward as well, pass and move, no need for high balls this week as we aint gonna win them. Its all about pace and movement, dragging defenders all over the place for us to find positions in which we will become a massive threat, we want to tire the defenders out. Take players on look to get into there faces and really be troublesome for the entirity of the game, stop there fullbacks becoming a threat by pushing them back and sitting in a high line. Defend as a trio as there fullbacks and Dm try to push on.

Captain - Pogba
Pens - Pogba
Free Kicks - Jese
Corners - Wingers

Subs
Losing
70 Mins - Berisha on for El Ghazi, Jese RW, Berisha up top as a natural finisher
80 Mins - Asensio for Barkley, out to RW, Jese central beside berisha

Winning
70 Mins Berisha for El Ghazi same sub
80 Mins - Rabiot for Barkley he and Pogba sit either side of Fletch

Fishguard Sports AFC

Captain: Daniel Agger
Corners: Bernardeschi/Fischer
Goal Scoring Opportunity Free Kicks: Klaassen
Pens: Klaassen

Formation: 3-4-3 (Sweeper System)

----------------------------Ryan
----------------------------Agger
-----------Bazoer---------------------Wimmer
----------------------------Hendrix
--------van de Beek---------------------Klaassen
-----------------------------Praet
----Bernardeschi-------------------------------Fischer
-----------------------------Vietto


Starting: Ryan; Bazoer, Agger, Wimmer (Verdonk); van de Beek (Schuurman), Hendrix, Klaassen, Praet (Andersen); Bernardeschi, Vietto, Fischer

Subs: Nyland, Verdonk, Schuurman, Ödegaard, Andersen

We will line-up with two lightening quick wingers in Bernardeschi and Fischer patrolling each flank with the intelligent and technically superb Dennis Praet behind the equally gifted and pacy Luciano Vietto.

My intentions are to pack the midfield with van de Beek, Hendrix and Davy Klaassen protecting the back-three of Bazoer, Wimmer and Daniel Agger.

We will operate with Agger as a sweeper. Pre-historic as it seems today, playing a sweeper will help to negate the Sekhukhune Lions threat in the attacking third. With the two most central attacking players (could be two forwards, could be a forward and an attacking midfielder) being picked up by Bazoer and Wimmer – this will leave Agger to pick up stray balls, runs from deep and anything Sekhukhune Lions throw at him.

We will be comfortable in having 3 defenders against the 2 most central attacking players, Bazoer and Wimmer will comfortably pick up an attacking player each and if they fail to control the Sekhukhune Lions forward line, Agger is the contingency plan.


With Bazoer and Wimmer picking up these 2 most central attacking players our defence is narrow. This would give the Sekhukhune Lions wingers a lot of space to move forward. We will anticipate this by instructing our two central players – van de Beek and Klaassen to track these runs.

With van de Beek and Klaassen now tracking the runs of the wingers, it would leave Hendrix outnumbered in midfield. Dennis Praet will always look to drop into midfield so that we will always have a spare man. This spare man again will be Daniel Agger – whose game intelligence and reading of the game will allow us to defend well.

When we are faced with doubling-up from our opposition (i.e. the opposition putting a winger and full back on to one of our defenders), we will use this to our advantage by switching the ball quickly and directly which will lead to our team finding an area of the pitch with no opposition player in. Such tactical nuances will be a distinct part of this Fishguard Sports team. This is an obvious and logical tactical ploy; expect at times for even talented players like Fischer to play a simple yet effective pass instead of attempting to pass his marker.

These tactics have proved that they can work by one of the greatest Ajax teams. The quick movement to an area where Sekhukhune Lions may be a man-short will allow us to keep possession comfortably as well as creating opportunities. We will hope to have the opportunity to find space in the most predictable of positions on the pitch.

Hendrix and Praet will always be available to receive the ball, and are capable of dissecting the Sekhukhune Lions midfield with ease.

Our flexible, hard-working system will allow us to have a spare-man available when Sekhukhune Lions have the ball, but significantly, it will gave flexibility and strength in keeping possession. With Hendrix and Praet both floating around the half-way line and attacking third respectively, we can move the ball with ease.

Sekhukhune Lions may find it difficult to react to these players, as if they do move out of position to get closer to Praet and Hendrix, the shape of the Sekhukhune Lions team may fall apart. If an attempt is made to combat the constant space we hope Praet will be receiving. This will only give slick-heeled Bernardeschi and Fischer more space to receive the ball.

My use of Klaassen and van de Beek will also be of interest too. As well as having defensive responsibilities, they will be instructed to run from deep to connect with our wingers and forwards. It will be their late runs that will often be the most dangerous to penetrate Sekhukhune Lions. To do this, both van de Beek and Klaassen will show superb tactical understanding and discipline, not to mention supreme physical fitness. The combination of quick passing and runs from deep will be a constant menace for the Sekhukhune Lions back-line. The implication of this will be that if Sekhukhune Lions try to play a high-line to combat the threat of Praet, then Sekhukhune Lions will have to drop deeper and deeper to negate the threat of our quick triangles through the midfield.

We will constantly be looking to stretch the Sekhukhune Lions defence with Bernardeschi and Fischer always looking to stay wide in the build-up of moves. It will therefore be unsurprising that either Klaassen or van de Beek will be the ones to break the deadlock in this game.

Vietto will not operate as purely an out and out centre forward – as he will also have a license to come a little bit deeper for the ball and run at defences, putting his pace and ability on the ball to full use. In that sort of scenario I will allow Bernardeschi or Fischer to come a bit more central and make sure that Klaassen or van de Beek push out a bit wider to cover - meaning we will still keep a good shape in attack and also be well set out if Sekhukhune Lions do try a counter. When Bernardeschi or Fischer come a bit more central, this is where we will use our technical ability, acceleration and sheer pace to full effect. Bernardeschi, Vietto, Praet and Fischer’s collective creative partnerships will give even the sturdiest of defences a very testing time through their combined technical abilities and pace.


Subs:
60th Minute: Jari Schuurman on for Donny van de Beek
75th Minute: Lucas Andersen on for Dennis Praet
85th Minute: Calvin Verdonk on for Kevin Wimmer

Using my tablet so apologise for the briefness

.................. Reina................
Sciglio.. Barz.... Jags....... Robertson
.......... De Rossi.. Illarra............
Bonaventura... Menez....... Aarons
...................... Morata...................

Subs:: Gordon, Vlaar, Cirigliano, Maggio, Ba

Captain De Rossi
Free kicks menez
Corners Menez
Pens morata

Need to get back on track after yet another loss, change of shape and system for a tough game vs Andover or whatever it is they're called this week.....

Solid spine to this team as we look to dominate the centre of the park,

Possession play today as we aim to play keep ball, not possession for possessions sake but clever incisive use of the ball as we pull our opponents out of position

Reina
Picks himself really a top top keeper, agile and a fantastic shot stopper

Sciglio/Robbo
Both young and eager provide the perfect balance on both flanks... Great engines will run the lines all match linking defence and attack, given licence to roam by the deployment of 2 defensive midfielders...


Barz/Jags
2 solid no nonsense defender's the type of player any side needs and we're fortunate to have both... Not sure how the opposition will line up so it's zonal marking for us today... In possession will keep it simple nothing risky just play the way your facing...

De Rossi/illarramendi
2 defensive mids but totally different skill sets that compliment each other perfectly...
De Rossi us the all action midfield general leading the team using his force of personality a real big game player....
Illarra comes in to make his debut as the deep lying playmaker stroking the ball around the pitch taking the sting out the game, starting to live up to the hype as Alonso 's heir

The Trinity
3 very very quick versatile players spread along the front in a fluid front three AM' s.... Will constantly switch around making it difficult to be man marked

Bonaventura has done very well for Milan this season and will be more of an inside forward when he's out wide.. Cutting inside and committing defender's

Aarons is young and a bit green but bags of pace and potential more of a natural wide man will run the line fancying his chances in a sprint wreaking havoc..

Menez my French wizard given the freedom of the pitch to feet forwards and pop up all across the final third.. Interchangeable with our 2 wingers as we look to over run Andover in our brand of smash and grab football

Morata
Lone striker but with 3supporting midfielders will see a lot of the ball... More than capable of playing with his back to goal will hold the ball up bringing others into play.. As well as being fed plenty of crosses should have a field day.

Subs
Winning or drawing at 65 no changes, keep it going

Losing at 65 Ba replaces Aarons... Menez RW... Bonaventura LW and we go 4-2-4

FL FART vs Notts County tactics


-----------------------1. Jefferson---------------------

23. Vd Wiel---4. Rami---13. Albiol---6. Schennikov

--------------------22. Kondogbia--------------------

-----------10. Wijnaldum---24. Toure Y------------

---11. Shaqiri--------------------------7. Insigne---

---------------------9. Mandzukic--------------------


SUBS:
5. Cambiasso
8. Fofana
15. Zivkovic
18. Cartabia
20. Cabella

*******************

Overview: We'll set out our stall to defend from the front, aiming to press the opposition high up the pitch as only Mandzukic can, and keep the pressure on the defence so the opposition can never get the ball to their dangerous AMs.

This season Fart have plenty of pace and power throughout the team and our full backs are both rapid and enjoy a good foray up the pitch. I'd like us to look to win the ball high up the pitch by pressing from the front and we'll keep the ball moving quickly with snappy short passes to feet. When our full backs are pushed forward we'll have triangles all over the pitch. With good quick passing and lots of movement we'll be a nightmare to defend against. We'll be tight and compact at the back when out of possession - Kondogbia is a monster of a defensive midfielder who gives great solidity when he drops back into defence as well as affording our other midfielders and full backs the opportunity to worry less about leaving space behind them when they push forwards. Toure in particular will love having Kondogbia as a shield behind him; he's freed up to bomb on and do what he does best.

I'd like us to keep the ball on the deck and move it quickly to pull defenders out of position; both wingers and the striker will all look to get past the line of defence and in on goal, as will Wijnaldum and Toure. The counter will still be used when available and appropriate.

*******************

Keeper - Jefferson
He'll be asked to keep things simple today. No sweeping or anything daft like that. Brazil's #1 will save whatever would go in the goal, and distribute it short or with a quick throw to the flanks or Toure/Wijnaldum.

Full backs: Van der Wiel and Schennikov
Same story - both are quick and dynamic and spring forward at pace and get round our wingers when they tuck inside. They have the gas to get up and down all match long. They will provide the width today with Shaqiri and Insigne being inside forwards, and Kondogbia will cover for them by tucking back into a back 3 when the full backs push on.

Centre backs: Rami and Albiol
Both CBs are excellent all-rounders, good in the air and comfortable on the ball, both strong and quick. Rami is a born leader, physically immense and not afraid to scream his head off to keep his back line organised. The CBs will not be bullied by any striker; the full backs and DMs will be tasked with closing down the attacking mids aggressively and spotting and blocking off any gaps in front of our defence that Qarabag might look to exploit before we banging forward on the counter. The centre halves will distribute the ball quickly to our wide players and Wijnaldum/Toure on the counter.

Defensive midfield: Kondogbia
Kondogbia is the lynchpin of the midfield, a master of interceptions and a terrifying physical presence. When the full backs bomb on Kondogbia will drop back into a back 3 and will play as the sweeper between Rami and Albiol. When we're in possession he'll make himself available in front of the defence for simple passes and he'll keep the ball moving with quick and simple short balls. If an attacking midfielder gets anywhere near the ball, Big Geoffrey is the man to shut them down with his pace, power and tenacity in the tackle.

Midfielders: Wijnaldum and Toure
Completing the 3Bs (Big Black Bástards) in midfield are my two players of the year from last season, Wijnaldum and Yaya Toure. Wijnaldum has filled out in the past couple of years and while he's not particularly tall he's solid and powerful. He'll be our main central creative outlet today but there's more to his game than that. Aside from being very tidy in possession he has great gas and a cracking engine; he'll get up in support of Mandzukic up top but he'll also track back and help out in his own half too. He'll interchange nicely with the wingers and striker and he'll look to get well forwards on the end of through balls; as the creator he'll also be expected to play more through balls than anyone else, threading it along the ground to the wingers as they run inside their full backs. Toure will be asked to do what he does best; smash the opposition to pieces with his rampaging forward runs. He has Kondogbia covering behind him so he has no real defensive worries, and he has licence to break forwards like only Toure can, playing one-twos with the wingers and striker before bombing on past them and in on goal or utilising his range of passing around the edge of the box. I'm looking for the 3Bs to dominate the midfield matchup today; the power and pace of the 3Bs should see them through.

Wingers: Shaqiri and Insigne
Xherdan Shaqiri and last year's Dream League PotY Insigne will link up as Fart's inside forwards this week. Shaqiri is naturally left footed and Insigne is a rightie, and they line up on the opposing flanks a la Robben and Ribery. Both players are short but feisty with low centres of gravity affording them great balance on the dribble; both are quick, both very creative and both have stonking shots from range on them. Shaqiri is built like a brick and is almost impossible to stop. I'll be looking for them to play similar games here, coming in off their flanks and driving at the opposition defence. When they beat a man that will leave a space for the striker and/or the onrushing Wijnaldum/Toure to push into and receive through balls from Shaqiri/Insigne, or leaving room for the overlapping full back to receive the ball and put in a cross; alternatively the opposition defender will have his hands full covering Mandzukic or Wijnaldum/Toure as they make a run, freeing up a gap for Shaqiri/Insigne to attack before unleashing a shot from range or pushing on into the box to strike it from closer. Both wingers will pose a significant goal threat today as they always do. They also have licence to switch flanks if play is becoming congested in the middle; both have the pace to beat a man round the outside and cut it back for Mandzukic/Wijnaldum/Toure. If they switch flanks and operate as conventional wingers, the full backs will be expected to push forwards less.

Striker: Mandzukic
The Croatian Super Mario is the perfect man to lead the line solo as he has done so magnificently in his career for Bayern and Atletico among others. He's strong, quick, aggressive, excellent in the air and has an astonishing work rate, plus a great eye for goal. He's a striker with no weaknesses who will bring his all-round game to this match; primarily he will work his árse off as only Mandzukic can to close down the defenders and defend from the very front, before bringing the onrushing midfielders or inside forwards into the game. The nature of his hassling and harrying game is that it wins the ball back when the opposition defence is not in a good defensive shape; catching them off guard will free up space in front of the defence for my attacking midfielders to run into and play through balls behind the defence or go for goal from range. When Shaqiri and Insigne do switch flanks Mandzukic will play right off the last defender, looking to push aggressively past the penalty spot to get on the end of crosses as he's such a force in the air. Mandzukic is also a terrific finisher and will relish receiving balls into feet with his back to goal before laying it off to an onrushing midfielder/winger, spinning and getting into the box where his predatory instincts will be most valuable.


Captain: Rami
Free kicks: Insigne
Penalties: Toure Y
Corners: Shaqiri (R); Insigne (L)

*******************

IF WINNING:
Wijnaldum off for Fofana, 75 mins - Fofana drops in to sit alongside Kondogbia as we solidify to see out the win.

Insigne off for Cartabia, Shaqiri off for Cabella, 80 mins - The inside forwards pull back into a flat midfield 5, from right to left: Cabella, Fofana, Kondogbia, Toure, Cartabia. The wide midfielders play like more conventional wingers on their natural flanks but they're expected to sit a bit deeper and help out the defence more.

*******************

IF LOSING/DRAWING:

Wijnaldum off for Zivkovic, 70 mins: Zivkovic goes up top alongside Mandzukic.

Vd Wiel off for Cambiasso, 75 mins: kitchen sink time. We line up as follows:

-----------------------1. Jefferson---------------------

-------4. Rami---22. Kondogbia---13. Albiol-------

---------------24. Toure---5. Cambiasso-------------

---11. Shaqiri------7. Insigne------6. Schennikov---

-------------9. Mandzukic-----15. Zivkovic------------


PEACE

Sorry - ignore the above. Got an extra substitution if we're losing/drawing.

USE THESE TACTICS INSTEAD

FL FART vs Notts County tactics


-----------------------1. Jefferson---------------------

23. Vd Wiel---4. Rami---13. Albiol---6. Schennikov

--------------------22. Kondogbia--------------------

-----------10. Wijnaldum---24. Toure Y------------

---11. Shaqiri--------------------------7. Insigne---

---------------------9. Mandzukic--------------------


SUBS:
5. Cambiasso
8. Fofana
15. Zivkovic
18. Cartabia
20. Cabella

*******************

Overview: We'll set out our stall to defend from the front, aiming to press the opposition high up the pitch as only Mandzukic can, and keep the pressure on the defence so the opposition can never get the ball to their dangerous AMs.

This season Fart have plenty of pace and power throughout the team and our full backs are both rapid and enjoy a good foray up the pitch. I'd like us to look to win the ball high up the pitch by pressing from the front and we'll keep the ball moving quickly with snappy short passes to feet. When our full backs are pushed forward we'll have triangles all over the pitch. With good quick passing and lots of movement we'll be a nightmare to defend against. We'll be tight and compact at the back when out of possession - Kondogbia is a monster of a defensive midfielder who gives great solidity when he drops back into defence as well as affording our other midfielders and full backs the opportunity to worry less about leaving space behind them when they push forwards. Toure in particular will love having Kondogbia as a shield behind him; he's freed up to bomb on and do what he does best.

I'd like us to keep the ball on the deck and move it quickly to pull defenders out of position; both wingers and the striker will all look to get past the line of defence and in on goal, as will Wijnaldum and Toure. The counter will still be used when available and appropriate.

*******************

Keeper: Jefferson
He'll be asked to keep things simple today. No sweeping or anything daft like that. Brazil's #1 will save whatever would go in the goal, and distribute it short or with a quick throw to the flanks or Toure/Wijnaldum.

Full backs: Van der Wiel and Schennikov
Same story - both are quick and dynamic and spring forward at pace and get round our wingers when they tuck inside. They have the gas to get up and down all match long. They will provide the width today with Shaqiri and Insigne being inside forwards, and Kondogbia will cover for them by tucking back into a back 3 when the full backs push on.

Centre backs: Rami and Albiol
Both CBs are excellent all-rounders, good in the air and comfortable on the ball, both strong and quick. Rami is a born leader, physically immense and not afraid to scream his head off to keep his back line organised. The CBs will not be bullied by any striker; the full backs and DMs will be tasked with closing down the attacking mids aggressively and spotting and blocking off any gaps in front of our defence that Qarabag might look to exploit before we banging forward on the counter. The centre halves will distribute the ball quickly to our wide players and Wijnaldum/Toure on the counter.

Defensive midfield: Kondogbia
Kondogbia is the lynchpin of the midfield, a master of interceptions and a terrifying physical presence. When the full backs bomb on Kondogbia will drop back into a back 3 and will play as the sweeper between Rami and Albiol. When we're in possession he'll make himself available in front of the defence for simple passes and he'll keep the ball moving with quick and simple short balls. If an attacking midfielder gets anywhere near the ball, Big Geoffrey is the man to shut them down with his pace, power and tenacity in the tackle.

Midfielders: Wijnaldum and Toure
Completing the 3Bs (Big Black Bástards) in midfield are my two players of the year from last season, Wijnaldum and Yaya Toure. Wijnaldum has filled out in the past couple of years and while he's not particularly tall he's solid and powerful. He'll be our main central creative outlet today but there's more to his game than that. Aside from being very tidy in possession he has great gas and a cracking engine; he'll get up in support of Mandzukic up top but he'll also track back and help out in his own half too. He'll interchange nicely with the wingers and striker and he'll look to get well forwards on the end of through balls; as the creator he'll also be expected to play more through balls than anyone else, threading it along the ground to the wingers as they run inside their full backs. Toure will be asked to do what he does best; smash the opposition to pieces with his rampaging forward runs. He has Kondogbia covering behind him so he has no real defensive worries, and he has licence to break forwards like only Toure can, playing one-twos with the wingers and striker before bombing on past them and in on goal or utilising his range of passing around the edge of the box. I'm looking for the 3Bs to dominate the midfield matchup today; the power and pace of the 3Bs should see them through.

Wingers: Shaqiri and Insigne
Xherdan Shaqiri and last year's Dream League PotY Insigne will link up as Fart's inside forwards this week. Shaqiri is naturally left footed and Insigne is a rightie, and they line up on the opposing flanks a la Robben and Ribery. Both players are short but feisty with low centres of gravity affording them great balance on the dribble; both are quick, both very creative and both have stonking shots from range on them. Shaqiri is built like a brick and is almost impossible to stop. I'll be looking for them to play similar games here, coming in off their flanks and driving at the opposition defence. When they beat a man that will leave a space for the striker and/or the onrushing Wijnaldum/Toure to push into and receive through balls from Shaqiri/Insigne, or leaving room for the overlapping full back to receive the ball and put in a cross; alternatively the opposition defender will have his hands full covering Mandzukic or Wijnaldum/Toure as they make a run, freeing up a gap for Shaqiri/Insigne to attack before unleashing a shot from range or pushing on into the box to strike it from closer. Both wingers will pose a significant goal threat today as they always do. They also have licence to switch flanks if play is becoming congested in the middle; both have the pace to beat a man round the outside and cut it back for Mandzukic/Wijnaldum/Toure. If they switch flanks and operate as conventional wingers, the full backs will be expected to push forwards less.

Striker: Mandzukic
The Croatian Super Mario is the perfect man to lead the line solo as he has done so magnificently in his career for Bayern and Atletico among others. He's strong, quick, aggressive, excellent in the air and has an astonishing work rate, plus a great eye for goal. He's a striker with no weaknesses who will bring his all-round game to this match; primarily he will work his árse off as only Mandzukic can to close down the defenders and defend from the very front, before bringing the onrushing midfielders or inside forwards into the game. The nature of his hassling and harrying game is that it wins the ball back when the opposition defence is not in a good defensive shape; catching them off guard will free up space in front of the defence for my attacking midfielders to run into and play through balls behind the defence or go for goal from range. When Shaqiri and Insigne do switch flanks Mandzukic will play right off the last defender, looking to push aggressively past the penalty spot to get on the end of crosses as he's such a force in the air. Mandzukic is also a terrific finisher and will relish receiving balls into feet with his back to goal before laying it off to an onrushing midfielder/winger, spinning and getting into the box where his predatory instincts will be most valuable.


Captain: Rami
Free kicks: Insigne
Penalties: Toure Y
Corners: Shaqiri (R); Insigne (L)

*******************

IF WINNING:
Wijnaldum off for Fofana, 75 mins - Fofana drops in to sit alongside Kondogbia as we solidify to see out the win.

Insigne off for Cartabia, Shaqiri off for Cabella, 80 mins - The inside forwards pull back into a flat midfield 5, from right to left: Cabella, Fofana, Kondogbia, Toure, Cartabia. The wide midfielders play like more conventional wingers on their natural flanks but they're expected to sit a bit deeper and help out the defence more.

*******************

IF LOSING/DRAWING:

Wijnaldum off for Zivkovic, 70 mins: Zivkovic goes up top alongside Mandzukic.

Vd Wiel off for Cambiasso, Schennikov off for Cabella, 75 mins: kitchen sink time. We line up as follows:

-----------------------1. Jefferson---------------------

-------4. Rami---22. Kondogbia---13. Albiol-------

---------------24. Toure---5. Cambiasso-------------

---11. Shaqiri------20. Cabella------7. Insigne---

-------------9. Mandzukic-----15. Zivkovic------------


PEACE

Whoever's doing D2 results this week (Tippy?) please note I've got 2 sets there - use the second set please

Arsenal tactics

-------------------------Bravo--------------------------
----Arias------Vidic----------De Vrij--------Adnan
-------------------------Silva--------------------------
-------------------Gago------Xavi---------------------------
-----Sigurdsson-------------------------Perisic
----------------------Ibrahimovic-----------------

Subs: Aranzubia, Cole, Piatti, Adriano, Drogba

General: Midfield domination. Although we feel we can score away against Basingstoke, we have to take into consideration their strengths and how we can counter that. So I think with 3 central midfielders, we can challenge their midfield and protect our back four at the same time. We will press their midfield when they attempt to attack and try to win the ball by closing them down and not giving them options to play as we have cramped the midfield. Imperative that we play a high tempo throughout and use the wingers and Ibra as much as possible. Defensively we have to vigilant and concentrate and not take risks. We pass it simple but attacking at all times and try to go for the win.

Bravo
One of the best shot stoppers around and very good at set-pieces as he is aggressive and takes no prisoners. Stays on his feet until he must commit. Also aware of threat and can rush of his line if he knows he can get to the ball quicker than the opponent and clear it out.

Arias and Adnan
Both yound and energetic fullbacks that are good readers of the game but also can stay with their wingers for pace. Arias is a little more experienced and is deceivingly strong so he can barge players. Adnan expect to bomb forward and help Perisic when he are in full flow attack mode.

De Vrij and Vidic
Vidic captaining the team and makes sure we are alligned correctly and keeps communicating with the back four and goalkeeper to make sure we do not give them an opportunity to attack through our own mistake. De Vrij withh play more as a deputy to Vidic and making sure that the ball has been dealt with with the 2nd ball after Vidic has gone for it. Both brave defenders and will put their body on their line to get a clean sheet.

Silva
Will play as a strict DM and hover over the CB's. Strong tackler and provides the muscle in our midfield. Distribution wise, he passes it quick and stays in his zone. Not a very elaborate role but very important for our tactic to nulify trouble coming from Basingstokes midfield so they don't have a run on coming from midfield.

Xavi and Gago
Offensively very different to Silva as they will provide the creativity to our impressive attack. Both to be keeping the ball moving and passing it forward and look for Ibra. Very important that these two drop back and press the opposition's midfield to help Silva and make sure they have no time to dictate the pace of the game. Xavi to go further forward as his has the killer pass in his locker too.

Sigurdsson and Perisic
Siggy very talented midfielder who can provide for Ibra and also has the confidence to go it all alone and can shoot from distance. Perisic is a direct player and his lethal left foot can score from anywhere as well as provide assists to other attacking players. They will both look to target their respective full-backs opponents especially if 1v1. However, they are to look for Ibra's movement and link up with him and attack forward as Ibra may play them in. Defensively, both to press

Ibrahimovic
Lone striker he may be bit he is well supported by Siggy and Perisic. Both will assist him throughout as well as Xavi. Ibra to always be on the move and create some space as he knows he will be tightly marked but that will not faze him or our tactics and could work to our advantage with Siggy and Perisic to have more space and run into vacated areas. Ibra is allowed to shoot at sight and from any angle as his early strikes can be lethal and take the keeper by surprise. Ibra to stay high up initialluy but run all over the defence and target anyone who he finds most joy and create space too.

Subs:
If winning: Cole for Adnan. 80mins. Cole to stay in defensive mode and not go forward

If losing: Gago off for Adriano. 75mins. Adriano to stay on the shoulder of the defence whilst Ibra drops a little deeper and probably has more space with another striker to be marked.

Barcelona vs FC PRIDE:

-------------------------Aréola-------------------------
Janko------------Luisao----------Castro--------Aanholt
-------------------Pirlo----------Blind--------------------
-------Robben--------T.Hazard----------Green---------
------------------------Immobile-------------------------

Subs: Abidal, Hojbjerg, Halilovic, Afobe, Wilson


We come up against a team who like to pass the ball this week, our aim is to stop their rhythm by not giving them time on the ball, pressing them quickly and dictating the play ourselves through Pirlo.

We want to be a fluid attacking team, but also not leave ourselves exposed when our opponents attack. We have two energetic and versatile fullbacks, who will look to give us width in attacks, when one goes forward the other will stay back as not not leave any gaps. Pirlo and Blind will sit in front of the back 4, Blind's versatility means he can cover the LB and LCB positions if necessary. When out of possession we will look to nullify any spaces in our half, pressing them when they cross the halfway line, letting them pass it around in their own half. We will look to force our opponents onto their weaker foot, shutting down the routes they prefer to take.

Pirlo is going to be the man to make us tick, in terms of getting the ball out from our half. He'll have a variety of options and now with two genuine top quality wide men in Robben and Green and a young and hugely promising Thorgan Hazard in the middle, he should always have forward options on for a pass. To make sure of this we'll look to create triangles in possession so there will be holes to exploit.

Robben and Green are encouraged to take on their markers and will look to work off of Hazard to make their way through our opposition. Immobile's movement in front will be key in opening up spaces for hazard to play in Robben/Green.
For example, if Immobile peels off one way, his marker will track him, opening up space for the other wide man to run into.

Robben and Green, will look to go either way, inside and look for a shot on their strong foot or short pass to slide in Immobile/Hazard, or outside and look to get the ball across the box for Immobile and the other wideman at the far post. We want a bit of variety, though we will ultimately look to exploit the are we have most joy in.

We want to go at them from the off, catching them off guard. Quick short passing working our way through them. Once the game has settled we'll ease slightly and try to dictate possession, knowing at any moment we have the pace and ability to cut them open.


If losing after 65 minutes:

Halilovic > Green - Hazard moves out left

after 80 minutes:

Van Aanholt > Wilson
Janko > Abidal - Move to 3 at the back, Wilson up top with Immobile

-------Castro----Luisao----Abidal
--------------Pirlo------Blind
-------Robben-------------Hazard
------------------Halilovic
-----------Immobile-----Wilson

If winning after 65 minutes:

Hojbjerg > Green - Move to a 4-3-3

--Pir---Blind---Hoj
Rob----Imm------Haz

Notts County vs Miami Fusion tactics

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

Darmian---------Bonucci-----------Manolas-----------Bernat

------------------------------Samper-------------------------------

------------------Thiago------------Tielemans--------------------

Traore------------------------------------------------------Depay

-------------------------------Alcacer--------------------------------

subs: Rugani, Aranguiz, Gaudino, Meyer, Dybala

Game plan: our plan today is to go at Fusion from the off, we feel that their defence can certainly be got at, everyone will be fired up and raring to go and looking to add to our decent start to the season. We will look to press high up the pitch and condense the space in the midfield. Successful pressing is dependant on group understanding, collective perception of ball, opponent and team mate, and a massive amount of hunger and desire to have the ball. It isn’t possible to press for 90 minutes. We will have to pick our times wisely in order to do it successfully. If our players are tracking back or not close enough to the ball it isn't sensible to press the ball, we will look to capitalise on poor passes by the opposition or when a player is facing his own goal or has his head down when receiving the ball, at these times to opposition player does not have a full view of the pitch and cannot pick a forward pass.

In possession we will have many lines of players in order to create easy triangles for the players on the ball, the player on the ball should always have at least 2 passing options, the full backs will also go forward creating an almost 3-4-3(2-3-2-3)formation when in possession, this reverts to a 4-1-4-1 formation when we lose possession.

In Possession

------------------------Bonucci-------Manolas------------------

Darmian------------------Samper--------------------Bernat

-----------------Thiago-------------------Tielemans------------

Traore------------------------------------------------------Depay

----------------------------------Alcacer-----------------------------

out of possession

Darmian-----------Bonucci-------Manolas-----------Bernat

-------------------------------Samper-------------------------------

Traore----------Thiago------------Tielemans---------Depay

---------------------------------Alcacer----------------------------------

Simone Scuffet: very young, but a fantastic goalkeeper, excellent shot stopper and very confident coming off his line, will look to release the ball quickly in order to start attacks, when he gets the ball the full backs will push forward and the centre backs will spread out offering themselves for the pass, will only go long if there is no other option.

Defence: as has been spoken about in the game plan section, the full backs will look to push up the field when we are in possession creating the multiple lines across the pitch which is the basis of our possession philosophy. The central defenders will look to stay close to one another when out of possession, the full backs will also tuck in leaving little room in the centre of the pitch as Fusion will look to do most of their attacking through the middle, while the midfield and attack will cover the defence of the wide areas, this is not the specific job of one player as we are playing in a fluid system, it will be whoever is available to do the job at that point in time, our players have great discipline and concentration to perform in this system.

Midfield and Attack: Sergi Samper will by and large stay in position in the holding role in the midfield. He will look to snuff out space for the opposition attacking players, and always be available for a pass when we are in possession, possesses great strength and is a very tidy user of the ball. The 4 midfield players in front of Sergi will play very fluidly, and as has already been stated they will look to press the opposition when the time is right, Pogba and Barkley are real dangers and must be given as little space and time as possible, all 4 possess good pace and stamina and are able to get up and down the pitch.

Thiago and Tielemans will get up and down the pitch throughout, both are very quick and very creative and can carry the ball. Both will look to move the ball quickly, as will the whole team, we will play with a high tempo throughout the game not giving Fusion any breathing space, without the ball they will look to pressurise the opposition in the centre of the pitch, but as spoken of earlier, only when it is sensible, no point doing it willy nilly and being picked off, we need to be very wary of the runs and movement of Fusion's midfield and give them as little space and time as possible, this will be key to winning the match.

Adama Traore and Memphis Depay will look to move wide when in possession, both have the ability to run at the opposition and will look to move inside at times and take the opportunity to shoot and link with Alcacer they both have the pace and movement to make runs beyond Alcacer in the centre forward positions, we are playing a very fluid system and will not just be looking to throw the ball into the box at every opportunity so their movment, pace and runs into the channels will be crucial in creating space and chances during the 90 minutes. When Depay and Traore do move inside, Darmian and Bernat will look to provide the outlet wide with overlapping runs.

Alcacer will play as the centre forward for us today, his pace, movement and energy suits the change in the way we are going to play, he will look to roam across the pitch, dragging defenders out of position which will leave space for the other attackers and our midfield to benefit from, we really feel as though Fusion's defence can be gotten at, inexperienced fullbacks, Tyler Blackett and an ageing Cannavaro, our 3 attackers will look to make runs in behind and get them on the turn, as stated previously in the tactics Alcacer is part of the fluid front 5 we are playing with today so will pop in different areas of the pitch on occasion, we are not just going to throw the ball into the box at every opportunity so his running of the channels and his technical ability are crucial in the way we want to play.

Substitutions: Max Meyer for Adama Traore on 70 minutes, switch to a midfield diamond, and look to keep the ball and be more patient in possession, the fullbacks Darmian and Bernat must now push higher up the pitch to provide the width

------------------------------Samper----------------------------

-------------------Tielemans--------------Thiago-----------------

--------------------------------Meyer-----------------------------

------------------Depay---------------Alcacer---------------------

if Drawing/Losing after 80 Minutes, Paulo Dybala for Youri Tielemans, similar to the formation above with Alcacer in the middle, Depay left and then Dybala right of the front 3 in front of Meyer as the no10, Thiago and Samper to play as a double pivot. The tempo of our play must increase and the speed with which we move the ball will also increase, we also have the option of going long into the channels because all 3 of our forwards are quick enough to break the defensive line and get in behind.

Captain: Bonucci
Freekicks n Corners: Thiago
Penalties: Thiago