FC Pride vs FL FART tactics


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

23. Vd Wiel---2. Amat---15. Vlaar---6. Schennikov

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

-------------8. Fofana---10. Wijnaldum------------

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

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


SUBS:
3. Neil Taylor
5. Cambiasso
14. Bakkali
16. Piazon
17. Hernandez

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

Overview: Fart are up against Pride this week. Our opposition have a stunning midfield and attack 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 as only Mandzukic can, and keep the pressure on without letting Pirlo dictate the game or Robben terrorise our defence.

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.

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. I'm looking for debutant Guedia Fofana to have a big game today, bombing up and down in the Toure role and giving Pirlo no time to think. He's also very useful at being an extra man up in support of the front men and he's excellent at driving at defences and slipping through balls in behind.

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

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 Fofana/Wijnaldum.

Full backs: Van der Wiel and Schennikov
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. I would like both to stay a bit higher up the pitch than usual today as I'm looking to win the ball back early with constant pressure on the Pride players in their own half. I don't want Pirlo to settle and I don't want Robben to see much of the ball at all, and I'm comfortable letting the full backs press high up with Kondogbia being so positionally disciplined.

Centre backs: Amat and Vlaar
All change in central defence this week, but both replacement CBs are excellent all-rounders who complement each other beautifully. Amat is comfortable on the ball, Vlaar extremely dominant in the air, and both are strong and quick. Vlaar is a born leader, physically immense and not afraid to scream his head off to keep his back line organised. The CBs will be asked to defend fairly deep to neutralise the threat of Robben being put through by Pirlo; again I'm happy to leave a bit of a gap between the deep CBs and the full backs who are pushed on a bit since Kondogbia is always there to make himself available to help out as an auxiliary CB. The centre halves will distribute the ball quickly to our wide players and Wijnaldum as we bang forwards and overload the Pride defence.

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 Amat and Vlaar, giving an extra man to cover against Robben's forays and also against the pace of Immobile, who should be left totally isolated as we chase and harry Pride in their own half giving them no space to put balls behind the defence for Immobile to chase. When we're in possession Kondogbia will make himself available in front of the defence for simple passes and he'll keep the ball moving with quick and simple short balls, but ultimately Kondogbia will do what he does best, which is staying well back in defence. If a Notts County midfielder breaks forwards, Big Geoffrey is the man to shut them down with his pace, power and tenacity in the tackle.

Midfielders: Fofana and Wijnaldum
Fofana comes in as a new member of the 3Bs in midfield, and he certainly qualifies. Big, strong, dynamic and quick, Fofana is a young French midfielder in the Toure/Vieira mode - an excellent range of passing coupled with outstanding physical attributes and a stonking shot from range. 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. Fofana 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, although both my centre midfielders are extremely hard workers who will be expected to harry Pirlo within an inch of his life so he has absolutely no time to run the show. Fofana has licence to break forwards, much like Yaya, playing through balls to the wingers and striker or hammering in a ranged shot on goal. The 3Bs should dominate the midfield matchup today; Pride have an excellent midfield but my powerful lads have the engines to shut Pirlo down and to overwhelm Mascherano who will be completely overworked with my two centre mids bombing on and my wingers cutting in as well.

Wingers: Shaqiri and Insigne
New signing 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 which is a clear weakness of Pride's - the Pride defenders either have pace or experience, but not both, and our forward players will be too much for them to handle. When Shaqiri/Insigne beat a man, that will leave a space for the striker and/or the onrushing Wijnaldum/Fofana 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/Fofana 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/Fofana. If they switch flanks and operate as conventional wingers, the full backs will be expected to push forwards less as more space opens up in the middle although they should still offer themselves for a pass to feet back up the line from the winger if the cross isn't on.

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 Notts County 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 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. If the ball should ever make its way to Pirlo, Mandzukic will be asked to get back and bully the Italian maestro in tandem with Wijnaldum/Fofana so there's always at least 2 men on him at any one time. 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: Vlaar
Free kicks: Insigne
Penalties: Mandzukic
Corners: Shaqiri (R); Insigne (L)

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

IF WINNING:
Schennikov off for Taylor, 75 mins - Like for like, although Taylor is less offensive-minded than Schennikov and will be a bit more solid defensively.

Insigne off for Piazon, 75 mins - Like for like.

Fofana off for Cambiasso, 80 mins - Cambiasso drops back alongside Kondogbia as the midfield inverts to a more defensive shape. We look to harry even more as Pride chase the game.

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

IF LOSING/DRAWING:

Fofana off for Bakkali, 75 mins: we go 4-2-3-1 with the following shape in midfield:

--------10. Wijnaldum--22. Kondogbia-------

---11. Shaqiri----7. Insigne----14. Bakkali---

Our 3 tricky attacking midfielders can switch at will; Wijnaldum becomes more of a box-to-box midfielder and our AMs are tasked with unlocking the defence while still pressing from the front.

Amat off for Hernandez, 85 mins: Kondogbia drops into CB alongside Vlaar and Hernandez goes up top alongisde Mandzukic. Kitchen sink time as we get the ball forwards as quickly as possible.



PEACE

Arsenal tactics XI

--------------------------Raeder-----------------------------
Jara-----------Vidic-------------De Vrij-------------Adnan
----------------------Silva------Xavi----------------------
Sigurdsson------------Haddadi--------------------Perisic
--------------------------Ibrahimovic---------------------

Subs: Van Anken, Cole, Gago, Diaby, Joaquin, Piatti, Luiz Adriano

General: Midfield domination and play our pacey game. We feel that with our attacking talent, we try and win the ball high up by pressing their midfield who we think are a little lightweight and then exploit their defence with our pace, power and ruthlessness. We want to keep playing at a high tempo and do not give their midfield any time and space in particularly Sterling. We want to spray the ball across and make the pitch as big as possible for Zlatan to make runs in behind and we know he will score.

Raeder
A young talented goalkeeper that has learned from the best and he has adapted that well by staying tall, strong, aggressive on set pieces and making logical decisions when 1v1. He is intelligent in reading the game and will leave his area if he is 100% convinced he will get the ball first.

Jara and Adnan
A mix of youth and experience but both talented. Jara to be more disciplined and tackle strong and stay with his man goal-side. Adnan can go forward as often because he knows he can use his pace to match any forward when defending. Both to stay on the feet and will have help at hand with Silva from time to time.

Vidic and De Vrij
Vidic captains the side and will keep the defence in tact and organised for sure. Both CBs expected to win all arial balls all day long but De Vrij will be more the covering defender whilst Vidic to be the aggressor and make the harder tackles. Both compliment each other well.

Xavi and Silva
Silva to hover in front of the back 4 and keep an eye on Sterling so our full-backs are not isloated with him on the ball. He will remain defensive throughout and is a solid defensive player. Xavi to be dictating the play and helping as an extra layer in our defence. Xavi will be quickly releasing the ball to our attackers and making sure that the tempo remains high.

Sigurdsson and Perisic
Both are direct wingers that can hurt any top defender and I expect both to be surging at their respective full-backs whe they are 1v1 and it goes without saying that they look for Ibrahimovic and play him in if he is not tightly marked. They both will be using their heads and can change positions with Haddadi too so we confuse the opposition and create space for others. Defensively, we press their midfield high up but not stupid tackles. We want them to make a mistake and take advantage high up and exploit.

Haddadi
Haddadi will also be their target as he is to be more advanced AM and will be closer to Ibra as much as possible. Haddadi has the killer pass in his armoury to play in Ibra and has the talent to go past all defenders and finish like a seasoned striker. Haddadi to link up with all the attackers and keep the tempo high by playing quick passes and charge forward. Press the midfielders and CBs when not in possession

Ibrahimovic
He has scored many goals this season but with more talent in the squad, he will be licking his lips to play with them and expect to receive more chances to add to his tally. Ibra also works for the team and will press the full-backs if the possess the ball and make them hoof it up the field for Vidic and co gobble it up and we start again. Ibra makes intelligent runs and stays high as possible and also makes space for runners as decoy if he is occupied by 2 or more players.

Subs:
Gago for Xavi 70mins: To stay more defensive than Xavi and play the ball as quick to our forwards.

Coman for Perisic 75mins:
--Haddadi---------------Coman---------------------Siggy
Be direct and run at the defenders and be direct.

If losing: 75mins: Adriano for Perisic and he goes up top and helps Ibrahimovic

Fishguard Sports
Captain: Ryan
Corners: Bernardeschi/Halilovic
Free kicks: Bernardeschi/Halilovic
Pens: Praet

------------------------------Ryan
Zappacosta-----van Beek---------Hinteregger-------Günter
----------------------------Saul Niguez
-------------------Baselli
----------------------------------------Praet
Bernardeschi------------Andersen--------------------Halilovic

Starting: Ryan, Zappacosta, van Beek, Hinteregger, Günter, Saul Niguez, Baselli, Praet, Bernardeschi, Andersen, Halilovic
Subs: Zelenika, Meunier, Engels, Gaudino, Muric



The first point to make about the players I have selected for this evening’s game is that they are all extremely comfortable on the ball. It is essential that this is the case as physically we are not the strongest team, but in terms of technical ability we have much quality.

In my opinion the position of defensive midfield is the key to all I want to achieve. For parts of the game Saul Niguez will fill this position, but for stretches of the game it will be Daniele Baselli – this I will explain below. Saul Niquez is our defensive midfield inforcer, however both of these players are equally excellent at intercepting opposition passes and quickly recycling the ball, doing both with unequalled composure.

Now the question is; why do I need two players who can play at DM?

I’m going to play what appears to be a standard back four, with Saul Niguez sat in front of the two centre backs. However, whilst van Beek, Hinteregger and Gunter will need to follow a ‘defence first mentality’ I am going to use Zappacosta for far more offensive purposes.

When Zappacosta is advanced I will move Saul Niguez into the RCB position, with Baselli becoming the DM, and Sven van Beek coving RB for the absent Davide Zappacosta.

Zappacosta has licence to combine with Bernardeschi to terrorise the left hand side of Stockport’s defence. Both players have blistering acceleration, searing pace and the aim is to concentrate on exposing any weaknesses on that side of the pitch time and time again. I really want to stretch the left hand side of their defence by using the pace of Zappacosta down the line, allowing Bernardeschi to cut in and do some serious damage. From there Bernardeschi has a) licence to go at goal himself b) look to combine with Vietto & Praet to create goal scoring opportunities.

This all means that I can hammer their left sided defence but remain with 4 defenders and a defensive midfielder at all times.

In my opinion Park has two choices at LCB which is a key position to where I’m focusing my attacks – he either goes with an inexperienced player Blackett for example. or he goes with a right footed player – probably Ginter or Veltman. I’m a big fan of the perfect balance of a defence i.e. RCB – right footed, LCB – left footed, and whilst that isn’t essential I feel it is my best chance of getting points. Why I mention the LCB position is because if I’m doubling up on that side of Stockport’s defence is that the LCB will have to help the LB or the LB is going to have 2 on 1.

When we are defending and Zappacosta is back in position then Saul Niguez as DM will have both Baselli and Praet as outlets ahead of him, when Baselli is playing at DM then he has Praet or the Zappacosta/Bernardeschi combo as his main forward outlets (see notes on Halilovic also).

However, Baselli or Saul Niguez can also play backwards if necessary as all of the defenders are happy to be on the ball as we look to recycle and concentrate on looking to get the ball to our left hand side and back up the pitch.

At some point Stockport will have to react to our relentless torture of the right hand side of their defence. At which stage, we’ll look to bring Bernardeschi more into play. Whilst at times Halilovic will appear to be a spare leg, this is far from the truth. If Stockport try to cover the weakness in their right – then I’ll want to see beautifully weighted long balls from Saul Niguez or Baselli over to Halilovic on our right hand side and he can go direct towards the goal at pace looking for quick 1-2’s with Vietto and Praet to cause absolute mayhem in the Stockport third. A box of tricks, lots of energy and screaming pace – he’s the threat that they won’t see coming.

Praet is young (like the rest of our team) but he’s extremely composed for his age, and he has the important job of making sure that Saul Niguez/Baselli have a forward option to play the ball whenever possible. He can then look to play Zappacosta in, or look for a killer through ball into Vietto or Bernardeschi, or as he is naturally a very exciting attacking player he can look to provide another option to any of my attacking play. He can also defend well however, so if we’re becoming swamped then it is essential that he looks to support to Baselli when we are under any form of pressure.

Whilst Andersen is playing as CF he is equally known as a player who can play behind the main forward, which is good – as he’s prepared to drop deep if we’re losing the midfield battle, and with Bernardeschi cutting in from the left hand side and Halilovic coming in from the right hand side he’s not always going to be the most advanced player. However, when Zappacosta/Bernardeschi – or Halilovic are involved in the attack – he can leave waste to the opponent’s defensive midfielder and put immediate pressure on the centre backs, who best not be caught ball watching as Halilovic/ Bernardeschi close in on them. Andersen is also known for his goal scoring efforts outside the penalty box as well as close range, and I am happy to encourage him to do this if he thinks that he is in prime position to do so. Andersen also combines exceptionally well with players around him i.e. Halilovic, Bernardeschi and Praet so expect lots of clever movement, quick tidy interplay as we look to take apart the Stockport defence.

Subs: just the one – Gaudino on for Baselli on 80th minute

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

------------------------Enyeama-------------------------
Coke------------Luisao--------Castro-------------Blind
-----------------------Mascherano------------------------
----------------Hojbjerg---------Pirlo--------------------
-----Robben-----------------------------T.Hazard-------
-----------------------Immobile--------------------------

Subs: Van Aanholt, Rosicky, Green, Sakho, Afobe

Squad:

GK: Areola, Ondoa
DEF: Janko, Abidal, Ozcipka, James, Perrey, Suliman,
MID: Lawrence, Baker, Roberts, Robert, Britton, Christensen, Pereira, Rowe
FOR: S. Ramirez


Injuries: Kouyate, Wilson, Pedro, Schöpf

Suspended:


Enyeama takes his place in goal, he's an experienced, agile keeper with bags of experience. He'll command his area, playing the ball out on the deck.

Luisao and Castro take up the CB spots. They're both very strong and able to win the ball back by putting pressure on the opponents attackers. Luisao is the leader at the back, he'll command the defence and bark the orders. Castro has plenty of pace to cover if needs be. They will look to feed the ball out through Pirlo or the wider players if he's marked.

Coke and Blind will take up the wing back roles. Both players have high stamina and a good range of passing. They'll be able to get up the wings tirelessly contributing in both defence and attack.

Mascherano takes up a defensive midfield role with Hojbjerg and Pirlo in more advanced roles. Pirlo will set the tempo of our play, he'll make the passes that make us tick, slowing the game down if we're under pressure or being more direct if the counter attack is on. Mascherano will sit deeper as the defensive midfielder marshalling the area in front of the defence. Hojbjerg will be the one to bring the ball forward. I'd liken them to the old Xavi (Pirlo), Iniesta (Hojbjerg) and Busquets (Masch) in terms of their responsibilities. We have the passer, the more direct player who can bring the ball forward and the defensive solidity.

Robben and Hazard will play in the wider areas, they'll have the freedom to drift inside and out (with Halilovic moving the other way) when we attack.

Immobile leads the line. He's young and quick with an eye for goal, who's also good with the ball at his feet.


We want to make it difficult for them to play their game, putting them under pressure and forcing them onto their weaker feet. We won't be gung-ho, though we will look to capitalise when they leave gaps in behind from pushing forward. We have the pace to get in behind when cracks appear.

Defending:

We essentially become a '4-5-1' when out of possession of the ball, though Mascherano won't be rigid, he'll be hunting down the ball either side of the pitch as shown below.

Coke------Luisao-----Castro----Blind
----------- < < Mascherano > > ------------
Robben--Hojbjerg----Pirlo-----Hazard
--------------------Immobile


When out of possession from their goal kicks we want to press our opponents high up the pitch. When they are in active possession, i.e. the ball is in play, not a dead ball situation, we will only press them when they enter our half which should open up space in behind their defence for us to attack. We are fairly rigid in terms of defending, to reduce the risk of gaps opening up, other than the role outlined for Mascherano.


Attacking:

We want to win the midfield battle, through keeping possession of the football and playing around our opponents. We have the tenacity and power, mixed with technique and pace which should allow us to do so. We have an abundance of ability and speed in wide areas which will allow us to break quickly and Pirlo will have plenty of options for a forward pass that can cut through our opponents once we've won the ball back. Also as stated above, from their goal kicks we want to give them as little time to settle on the ball as possible, with Immobile, Robben, Hazard and Hojbjerg closing men down in their areas of the pitch, this should allow us to mount quick attacks.

However in possession we will work the ball about a bit more, pulling their players out of position and exploiting the spaces created.


Captain: Pirlo
Penalties: Robben
Freekicks: Pirlo


Subs after 75 mins if losing/drawing:

Move to a 4-2-2-2

Sakho on for Hojbjerg

-----Masch---Pirlo
Rob-----------------Haz
--------Imm----Sak


If winning:

Rosicky will come in for Hojbjerg
Afobe for Hazard

Notts County vs Taiwan tactics

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

---------Stones---------Bonucci-------Manolas---------------

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

------------Brahimi-------------------Thiago--------------------

--------------------------Zivkovic---------------------------------

Subs: Rugani, Aranguiz, Januzaj, Traore, Ibe.

Game Plan: massive change this week for us, thanks to stupid injuries moving from 4-3-3 to 3-4-2-1. This formation will see us attempt to dominate possession and be attacking, while still being compact and effective in defence. The 3-4-2-1 formation with two withdrawn forwards is very demanding and will require the players to be flexible and to be able to transition quickly, which they are all well capable of.

The two withdrawn strikers are the most critical piece of the attack, when one shifts wide, the other tucks in behind the main striker to maintain midfield superiority. Thiago and Brahimi both possess the ability to play in the wide areas and through the middle, both have good pace and dribbling ability but they also have the vision and the passing ability when infield.

The main structural difference between our usual 4-3-3 and this weeks 3-4-2-1 is obviously the 3-man backline. Like all 3-man backlines it will have to play narrow and compact in defence and nullify the space for Taiwan's attack. Stones and Manolas as the wide CB's will use their pace in dealing with the attackers of Taiwan while Bonucci will use his intelligence and anticipation to cover in behind. However, the main focus of the 3-man backline isn't the defensive structure, it's the structure in possession. The main intent is to neuter the opposition press, offering 3 targets against a two-man press gives us too many passing options. With patience and guile, that press can be exhausted, if Taiwan decide to use a 3 man press then we can drop the wingbacks and with the 2 defensive midfield players this makes this a very effective formation against a side that likes to press high up the pitch as we expect Taiwan to do.

While both wide centerbacks function like true classical centerbacks, the middle one has to play exactly like a distributing midfielder. This makes it a fantastic position for Leo Bonucci and it also allows him a certain license in freedom of movement. Leo's best ability is to read opposition attacks, creating interceptions and tackles. If need be Leo can step into holding midfield to bring more bodies into the attack or he can drop deeper to act as a libero depending on the offensive setup of the opposition.

In the midfield we will pair Sergi Samper and Youri Tielemans, Samper will act more as the distributor while Tielemans will play more as a box to box player, although both players are more than capable of switching roles at times, which presents the opposition with a shifting movement pattern from midfield.

In this new system the linchpins of the attack become the wingbacks, we will use Darmian and Bernat who can stay wider and stretch opposition defenses giving more space in the center for the holding midfielders and centerbacks to step into. They are both capable of getting up and down the pitch for 90 minutes and possess great pace and excellent quality from wide areas, they are also both able to tuck in centrally at times and link with the attack and midfield, playing quick passes and moving into new positions quickly, they are both very dynamic players.

In Richairo Zivkovic we have a dynamic possession-based striker, Zivkovic can drop deep and play as a false 9 along with his ability to shift out towards the wing and interchange with the wide midfielders, allowing him to bring a high degree of versatility to our attack. As mentioned previously Both Brahimi's and Thiago's ability to dribble, create, and play off a main striker anywhere along the attacking band gives them the freedom to completely take over a match offensively.

Subs: Adama Traore for Brahimi 75mins: straight swap, very pacy and skillful forward much in the same mould as Brahimi.

If winning after 75 minutes: Charles Aranguiz for Zivkovic, Traore plays as the forward, while Aranguiz moves into a midfield 3 with Samper and Tielemans, our attacking play becomes slightly more direct, Traore to play on the shoulder of the defenders, looking for balls in behind and in the channels.

Fishguard Sports
Captain: Klaassen
Corners: Halilovic (Bernardeschi)/Fischer
Free kicks: Klaassen
Pens: Klaassen

---------------------------Ryan
Zappacosta-----Engels---------Wimmer-------Günter
----------------------Hinteregger
---------------Baselli
----------------------------------Klaassen
Halilovic---------------Vietto-------------------Fischer

Starting: Ryan, Zappacosta, Engels, Wimmer, Günter, Hinteregger, Baselli, Klaassen (c), Halilovic (Bernardeschi), Vietto, Fischer
Subs: Zelenika, Gaudino, Praet, Bernardeschi, Andersen



The first point to make about the players I have selected for this evening’s game is that they are all extremely comfortable on the ball. It is essential that this is the case as physically we are not the strongest team, but in terms of technical ability we have much quality.

In my opinion the position of defensive midfield is the key to all I want to achieve. For parts of the game Martin Hinteregger will fill this position, but for stretches of the game it will be Daniele Baselli – this I will explain below. Hinteregger is most definitely an ‘enforcer style’ defensive midfielder, however both players are equally excellent at intercepting opposition passes and quickly recycling the ball, doing both with unequalled composure.

Now the question is; why do I need two players who can play at DM?

I’m going to play what appears to be a standard back four, with Hinteregger sat in front of the two centre backs. However, whilst Zappacosta, Engels and Wimmer will need to follow a ‘defence first mentality’ I am going to use Gunter for far more offensive purposes.

When Gunter is advanced I will move Hinteregger into the LCB position, with Baselli becoming the DM, and Kevin Wimmer coving LB for the absent Christian Gunter.

Gunter has licence to combine with Fischer to terrorise the right hand side of Arsenal’s defence. Both players have blistering acceleration, searing pace and the aim is to concentrate on exposing any weaknesses on that side of the pitch time and time again. I really want to stretch the right hand side of their defence by using the pace of Gunter down the line, allowing Fischer to cut in and do some serious damage. From there Fischer has a) licence to go at goal himself b) look to combine with Vietto to create goal scoring opportunities.

This all means that I can hammer their right sided defence but remain with 4 defenders and a defensive midfielder at all times.

When we are defending and Gunter is back in position then Hinteregger as DM will have both Baselli and Klaassen as outlets ahead of him, when Baselli is playing at DM then he has Klaassen or the Gunter/Fischer combo as his main forward outlets (see notes on Halilovic also).

However, Baselli or Hinteregger can also play backwards if necessary as all of the defenders are happy to be on the ball as we look to recycle and concentrate on looking to get the ball to our left hand side and back up the pitch.

At some point Arsenal will have to react to our relentless torture of the right hand side of their defence. At which stage, we’ll look to bring Halilovic more into play. Whilst at times Halilovic will appear to be a spare leg, this is far from the truth. If Arsenal try to cover the weakness in their right – then I’ll want to see beautifully weighted long balls from Hinteregger or Baselli over to Halilovic on our right hand side and he can cut inside and go direct towards the goal at pace looking for quick 1-2’s with Vietto and Fischer to cause absolute mayhem in the Arsenal third. A box of tricks, lots of energy and screaming pace – he’s the threat that they won’t see coming.

Klaassen is young (like the rest of our team) but he’s extremely composed for his age, and he has the important job of making sure that Hinteregger/Baselli have a forward option to play the ball whenever possible. He can then look to play Gunter in, or look for a killer through ball into Vietto or Fischer, or as he is naturally a very exciting attacking player he can look to provide another option to any of my attacking play. He can also defend well however, so if we’re becoming swamped then it is essential that he looks to support to Baselli when we are under any form of pressure.

Whilst Vietto is playing as CF he is equally known as a player who can play behind the main forward, which is good – as he’s prepared to drop deep if we’re losing the midfield battle, and with Fischer cutting in from the left hand side and Halilovic cutting in from the right hand side he’s not always going to be the most advanced player. However, when Gunter/Fischer – or Halilovic are involved in the attack – he can leave waste to the opponent’s defensive midfielder and put immediate pressure on the centre backs, who best not be caught ball watching as Fischer/ Halilovic close in on them. Vietto is also well known for his goal scoring efforts outside the penalty box as well as close range, and I am happy to encourage him to do this if he thinks that he is in prime position to do so. Vietto also combines exceptionally well with players around him i.e. Fischer, Halilovic and Klaassen so expect lots of clever movement, quick tidy interplay as we look to take apart the Arsenal defence.

Subs: like for like – Bernardeschi on for Halilovic on 75 mins.

-------------------Costeels--------------------
Manea-----Rudiger-----Blackett-----P.Evra
-----------------Illarramendi------------------
---------------Pogba-----S.Kurt---------------
Jese---------------------------------------Janu
--------------------Gignac---------------------

Balanta, Medran, Modic, McGregor, 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.

Rudiger and Blackett come in at CB, with Gunter gone, its upto Blackett to claim the CB slot alongside Rudiger, with Balanta and Denayer 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. Rudiger 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.
Manea 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, Manea 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, he has a good understanding with Rudiger so along with 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 Sinan Kurt 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 Kurt to burst forward to assist Gignac. He is a young lad full of promise and we want him to take this opportunity to show us he has the quality to be in this Miami side. 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. 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 Kurt 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.

Januzaj and Rodriguez 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/S.Kurt 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
Penalties - Gignac
Free Kicks - Sinan Kurt floats them in, Jese will go for goal so depends what area
Corners - Wingers

Subs:-
Losing
75 Mins Guidetti for Kurt - 442
82 Mins Balanta for Manea - 3 at the back, Evra to LM, Janu to RM, Jese into support the two strikers 3412

Winning
75 Mins Medran for Kurt, sit in beside Illarramendi
83 Mins Guidetti for Gignac, fresh legs run everything down

Drawing
70 Mins - Guidetti for Gignac
80 Mins - Modic for Kurt

Like for like

Notts County vs FC Pride tactics

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

---------Stones---------Bonucci-------Manolas---------------

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

------------Brahimi-------------------Thiago--------------------

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

Subs: Kongolo, Tielemans, Meyer, Zivkovic, Depay

Game Plan: massive change this week for us, moving from 4-3-3 to 3-4-2-1. This formation will see us attempt to dominate possession and be attacking, while still being compact and effective in defence. The 3-4-2-1 formation with two withdrawn forwards is very demanding and will require the players to be flexible and to be able to transition quickly, which they are all well capable of.

The two withdrawn strikers are the most critical piece of the attack, when one shifts wide, the other tucks in behind the main striker to maintain midfield superiority. Thiago and Brahimi both possess the ability to play in the wide areas and through the middle, both have good pace and dribbling ability but they also have the vision and the passing ability when infield.

The main structural difference between our usual 4-3-3 and this weeks 3-4-2-1 is obviously the 3-man backline. Like all 3-man backlines it will have to play narrow and compact in defence and nullify the space for Pride's attack. Stones and Manolas as the wide CB's will use their pace in dealing with the attackers of Pride while Bonucci will use his intelligence and anticipation to cover in behind. However, the main focus of the 3-man backline isn't the defensive structure, it's the structure in possession. The main intent is to neuter the opposition press, offering 3 targets against a two-man press gives us too many passing options. With patience and guile, that press can be exhausted, if Taiwan decide to use a 3 man press then we can drop the wingbacks and with the 2 defensive midfield players this makes this a very effective formation against a side that likes to press high up the pitch as we expect Pride to do, especially with the pace of Robben and Pedro out wide.

While both wide centerbacks function like true classical centerbacks, the middle one has to play exactly like a distributing midfielder. This makes it a fantastic position for Leo Bonucci and it also allows him a certain license in freedom of movement. Leo's best ability is to read opposition attacks, creating interceptions and tackles. If need be Leo can step into holding midfield to bring more bodies into the attack or he can drop deeper to act as a libero depending on the offensive setup of the opposition.

In the midfield we will pair Sergi Samper and Ander Iturraspe, Samper will act more as the distributor while Iturraspe will play more as a box to box player, although both players are more than capable of switching roles at times, which presents the opposition with a shifting movement pattern from midfield.

In this new system the linchpins of the attack become the wingbacks, we will use Darmian and Bernat who can stay wider and stretch opposition defenses giving more space in the center for the holding midfielders and centerbacks to step into. They are both capable of getting up and down the pitch for 90 minutes and possess great pace and excellent quality from wide areas, they are also both able to tuck in centrally at times and link with the attack and midfield, playing quick passes and moving into new positions quickly, they are both very dynamic players.

In Paco Alcacer we have a dynamic possession-based striker, Alcacer can drop deep and play as a false 9 along with his ability to shift out towards the wing and interchange with the wide midfielders, allowing him to bring a high degree of versatility to our attack. As mentioned previously Both Brahimi's and Thiago's ability to dribble, create, and play off a main striker anywhere along the attacking band gives them the freedom to completely take over a match offensively.


Subs if losing/drawing after 70, Memphis Depay for Darmian, switch to 4-2-3-1 more direct passing get the ball out wide quickly and let Brahimi and Depay cause havoc.

Scuffet

Stones---Bonucci---Manolas---Bernat

Samper----Iturraspe

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

Alcacer


If winning after 80 minutes: Max Meyer for Alcacer , Meyer plays as the false 9, while Thiago moves into a midfield 3 with Samper and Iturraspe, our attacking play becomes slightly more direct, Meyer to come short for the ball and look to keep possession as much as possible and wind down time.

FL FART vs Notts County tactics


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

23. Vd Wiel---13. Albiol---15. Vlaar---6. Schennikov

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

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

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

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


SUBS:
2. Amat
5. Cambiasso
8. Fofana
16. Piazon
19. Ba

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

Overview: Fart are up against Qarabag this week. Our opposition have a stunning 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 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 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 Qarabag 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: Albiol and Vlaar
Both CBs are excellent all-rounders, good in the air and comfortable on the ball, both strong and quick. Vlaar 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 Bony if he plays as expected; 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 Albiol and Vlaar. 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 Qarabag 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 Manduzukic 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; Qarabag are strong through their midfield but the power and pace of the 3Bs should see them through.

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: 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 Notts County 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 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. If the ball should ever make its way to Pirlo, Mandzukic will be asked to get back and bully the Italian maestro in tandem with Wijnaldum/Fofana so there's always at least 2 men on him at any one time. 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: Toure Y
Free kicks: Insigne
Penalties: Toure Y
Corners: Shaqiri (R); Insigne (L)

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

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

Insigne off for Piazon, 75 mins - Like for like.

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

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

IF LOSING/DRAWING:

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

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

----------2. Amat---13. Albiol---15. Vlaar-----------

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

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

--------------9. Mandzukic----19. Ba----------------

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


PEACE

Basingstoke Town tactics.

Week 3 v Andover

4-4-2 diamond

----------------------Cesar--------------------
Bellerin---Marquez---Zouma---Kurzawa
------------------Carvalho-----------------
-----------Vilhena----Ramsey------------
-----------------Quintero-----------------
----------------Milik----Rossi------------

Subs: Fabianski, Reyes, Boetius, Maher, Kramer

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

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 Andover by packing the midfield. Andover don't have a huge amount of pace in the team to fear, which means we can push the defence up high and I also feel that we can press them quickly in the midfield and get on top of them and control the game and get at them with pace and flair. 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 3 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 1-3-4-2, 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 Andover side that are likely to have wide players drifting into his area in front of the back four, 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 FIshguard 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 & Vilhena - Today they will get to play their natural game, doing more of the running and pressing against the Andover. I want them to start with the 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 them such a goalscoring threat.

Quintero - Today could be a perfect game for Quintero. 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. Given that as the home team Andover are likely to come at us a little more so there will be space there for Quintero to exploit and start off attacks, however he will have to be wary of DE Jong who will likely be giving him plenty of attention, but hopefully this will allow the deep runs from Ramsey and Vilhena to go a bit more unnoticed.

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. Today he will have a little more freedom than usual as Milik will be the focal point of the attack, meaning that he can drift around finding pockets of space to work his magic in.

Milik - Gets to play as the main CF toward, holding the ball up, bringing others into play, making himself a nuisance and not letting the Andover CBs get a breather at all. His all round play is good but more importantly, he knows when to get into the box and which positions to take up and is a great goalscorer. If he plays his natural game and has confidence he will do very well today.

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

65 mins - Kramer on for Vilhena

73 mins - Maher for Quintero

80 mins - Boetius on for Rossi.

On my tactics - HUGE TYPO. Wijnaldum should be #10, not #8. God Haak. What the fúck is wrong with you.

<takesmeattenderisertobollocks>

Week 3:

------------------------Enyeama-------------------------
Coke-----------Kouyate----------Masch----------Castro
-------------------Pirlo----------Blind--------------------
-------Robben--------T.Hazard----------Pedro---------
------------------------Immobile-------------------------

Subs: Abidal, Hojbjerg, Rosicky, Green, 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. 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 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.

Captain: Pirlo
Freekicks: Pirlo
Penalties: Robben

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

Stockpoor vs BLYTH (4-3-3)

....................Reina...............
Maggio....Jagielka..BMI...De Sciglio
....................De Rossi.................
.........Rabiot...............Delph.........
.....Menez............................Welbeck....
.....................Morata............................

Subs: Gordon,Barzagli,Diaz,Aarons,R.Insigne

Capt: De Rossi
Free Kicks: Menez
Corners: Menez
Pens: Morata

Tough game this week against Stockport, as Park is the one manager on here I can never second guess.
Last season he turned us over to inflict our first defeat, quickly followed by another defeat to Basingstoke, the latter was avenged last week and hopefully after this week we’re quits.

A bit of a mixed bag set up for this week as we have a rock solid defence, a midfield with plenty of guile and good ball retention skills and a smidgeon of pace and power in attack

Reina – standard generic stuff that kills me typing it…he’s a keeper…he does what he does
with the ball has options of a short throw out to a defender or the option of a long counter-attack starting pass.

The Defence

No room in our system today for the old warhorse that is Barzagli as the defence will squeeze up the pitch making the most of Kun Aguero’s absence.
Maggio and De Sciglio are naturally very attacking full backs but that is reigned in today as they push no further than the halfway line…blessed with great speed and stamina the pair of them can do that half pitch ground covering comfortably for the entire game….defensively won’t jump in but are quick enough to recover should they mis-time a tackle..will try to show the man the line and not let them cut in…Will play man and ball as often as possible
Jagielka/Martins Indi – Both big and strong and very quick across the ground. But more importantly they give me the much vaunted Left/Right foot combo….Not sure how Park will line up so it’s zonal marking today as opposed to man-to-man…Will both push forwards as we defend higher up the pitch and congest the centre, may leave us vulnerable to a long ball over the top but as you run slower with the ball than without I feel our defenders are quick enough to make it back

The Midfield
We set up with a flexible trio in the middle, all 3 can play the holding role so although we start with De Rossi there as and when Delph/Rabiot need a breather they can sit and De Rossi can charge on.
They say attack is the best form of defence and to a degree I accept that, our midfield isn’t gung-ho but they are all tidy ball playing midfielders, and with this is mind we aim to retain the lions share of possession passing and moving, aiming to tire out Stockports centre-mids before over-running them later on in the game. If they want the ball they are gonna have to work very hard to get it off us.

The deepest CM will be the anchor and springboard for our attacks. Dropping off to collect the ball and keep things ticking over, play the way he’s facing and taking the simple option.
The further advanced Cm’s will both play as box to boxers with a slight twist in that as opposed to running straight lines, they’ll be shuffling out wide further stretching the pitch and creating ever bigger gaps in Stockports set-up. This coupled with tucked in wingers and a high defensive line means whoever has possession of the ball in our team should have around half a dozen viable options for a pass. Delph is the bustle in our side and should thrive in this role..Rabiot generally plays as a CM not blessed with great pace but at 6ft3 can dominate a midfield due to his sheer physical presence he looks a very tidy player and completed well over 90% of his Ligue 1 passes over the last 2 seasons.

The Attack.
Although winning the midfield battle will go a long way towards winning the game, it’s defensively that I feel is Stockports Achilles heel.
All 3 men in our trident are 6ft plus (giving Menez an inch) and blessed with bags of pace a fair amount of power and no little skill. They have minimal defensive duties so will play as high up the pitch as Stockports defensive line allows.
I feel that Stockports full backs are the weak leak in a fairly strong chain so this will be targeted deliberately as Menez/Welbeck use their blistering pace to attack the space inbetween Fb & Cb with our Cm’s ploughing on down the line overloading and exposing this perceived weakness.
If Park pushes his fullbacks on, we don’t track them as in a leg race there’s noway they’ll catch our wingers on the break.
Morata plays the traditional #9 role…being used as a battering ram to bully Park’s defence into submission, equally adept as a poacher or with his back to goal, will be a great outlet for us today

Subs 65 mins regardless, as out high pressing fast tempo game takes it’s toll all subs are like for like

Aarons > Menez…the fleet footed Newcastle winger comes on to replace Menez, not as tricky but blindingly quick, naturally a leftie so will look to cut inside and unleash shots at goal..fresh legs vs a tiring defence could be a difference maker.

Diaz > Delph….Chilean anchor man comes on and switches roles with De Rossi…Diaz will sit and hold things together nicely like he does for Basle allowing The emperor to wage war further forwards and really get stuck into Stockports midfield


The end

Arsenal tactics

Injured players: Santiago Arias, Joaquin, Munir El Haddadi, John Swift, Lukas Raeder

Starting line-up

-----------------------------Bravo-------------------------------
Jara----------Vidic------------------De Vrij------------Adnan
---------------------<-Silva-->------------------------------------
------------------------------------Xavi-------------------------
---Piatti------------------Sigurdsson---------------Perisic
----------------------------Ibrahimovic----------------------

Subs: Aranzubia, Cole, Fernandez, Gago, Coman, Cabella, Adriano

General: Direct yet simple attacking style. We don't want to hoard with posession but want to dominate in front of our crowd by charging at the opposition's defence and get as many goals. We want to target their defence by stretching the play, pressing their midfield and using Ibra as much as we can.

Bravo
Brilliant goalkeeper that does the simple things perfectly and very agile. He is commanding on set-pieces and will be aggressive on corners and look to kick the ball out to the side lines rather than doing anything stupid.

Vidic and De Vrij
A mix of youth and experience. Vidic, captaining the side will be the more aggressive CB and braver to the ball whilst De Vrij will be sweeping up behind him and sweeping anything after Vidic has attacked the ball. Both to dominate in the air and look to distribute to Xavi and the wingers as quick for attackers to get their game together.

Adnan and Jara
Another great pairing with different approaches. Jara is more no nonsense will use his strength and anticipation to get him out of trouble. Adnan is more energtic and will be bombing up and down often and using his pace to stay with his opponent and more often than not, he anticipates well and takes the ball and starts the attack. They both an attack but only one at a time otherwise we will be exposed. As well, as the other defenders, look to pass the ball fast yet simple.

Xavi and Silva
As seen from my formation, Silva will be playing as a disciplined DM and patrolling about the defence a la Makelele. Xavi will be accompaning him but will be playmaking and looking to start attacks with long and short passes and making sure the tempo stays high. Defensively Xavi drops a little and helps Silva but more often than not, he will in the centre and playing the ball forward

Piatti, Sigurdsson and Perisic
They will be very important defensively by pressing the opponents and get in their faces as we believe their strength is in midfield and we can't allow them time and space to dictate. We want to dominate and with the corwd behind us, we feel we can dislodge their style and make them play backwards by pressing. Attacking wise, they shall all be direct and look to sprint forward to look for goal or feed Ibra. Siggy was tactially placed centrally as he is both footed and look to feed Ibra or if he occupies space, then go for goal himself. Piatti and Perisic have the skill and pace to beat their respective full-backs and look to find Ibra.

Ibrahimovic
As always, we expect Ibra to be tightly marked but he always finds a way and scores goals. He will making more runs towards goal. He will be positioned up high with the last defender so we stretch them and not get too congested in midfield. Ibra to shield the ball at times and feed in the wingers who run in behind the full-backs.

Subs:

Gago for Xavi 75mins - More disciplined and accompany Silva

If losing:
Adriano for Piatti 70mins. Play alongside Ibra and shoot on sight whilst Ibra drops a little deeper and play makes and probably gets more space as less defenders are marking him.

Subs: Aranzubia, Cole, Gago, Cabella, Adriano

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

SPOCKSPORT vs. Blyth-guards.

---------------------------Forster-------------------------
Clyne------Veltman-------Ginter-------E. Durm
------------------------Schneiderlin--------------------
----------------Rakitic-------------Clasie---------------
----Weimann----------Berardi-----------Draxler----

Line up without the cloned Weiman...

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

Balanta, 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 - Balanta 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

Fishguard Sports
Captain: Ryan
Corners: Bernardeschi (Halilovic)/Fischer
Free kicks: Bernardeschi (Halilovic)/Fischer
Pens: Vietto

-------------------------------Ryan
Zappacosta-----Dendoncker---------Wimmer-------Günter
-----------------------------Hendrix
---------------Baselli
----------------------------------------Praet
Bernardeschi---------------Vietto-------------------Fischer

Starting: Ryan (c), Zappacosta, Dendoncker, Wimmer, Günter, Hendrix, Baselli, Praet (Klaassen), Bernardeschi (Halilovic), Vietto, Fischer
Subs: Zelenika, Bazoer, Klaassen, Andersen, Halilovic



The first point to make about the players I have selected for this evening’s game is that they are all extremely comfortable on the ball. It is essential that this is the case as physically we are not the strongest team, but in terms of technical ability we have much quality.

In my opinion the position of defensive midfield is the key to all I want to achieve. For parts of the game Jorrit Hendrix will fill this position, but for stretches of the game it will be Daniele Baselli – this I will explain below. Whilst we do not possess an ‘enforcer style’ defensive midfielder, both players are equally excellent at intercepting opposition passes and quickly recycling the ball, doing both with unequalled composure.

Now the question is; why do I need two players who can play at DM?

I’m going to play what appears to be a standard back four, with Hendrix sat in front of the two centre backs. However, whilst Zappacosta, Dendoncker and Wimmer will need to follow a ‘defence first mentality’ I am going to use Gunter for far more offensive purposes.

When Gunter is advanced I will move Hendrix into the LCB position, with Baselli becoming the DM, and Kevin Wimmer coving LB for the absent Christian Gunter.

Gunter has licence to combine with Fischer to terrorise the right hand side of Blyth’s defence. Both players have blistering acceleration, searing pace and the aim is to concentrate on exposing any weaknesses on that side of the pitch time and time again. I really want to stretch the right hand side of their defence by using the pace of Gunter down the line, allowing Fischer to cut in and do some serious damage. From there Fischer has a) licence to go at goal himself b) look to combine with Vietto to create goal scoring opportunities.

This all means that I can hammer their right sided defence but remain with 4 defenders and a defensive midfielder at all times.

When we are defending and Gunter is back in position then Hendrix as DM will have both Baselli and Praet as outlets ahead of him, when Baselli is playing at DM then he has Praet or the Gunter/Fischer combo as his main forward outlets (see notes on Bernardeschi also).

However, Baselli or Hendrix can also play backwards if necessary as all of the defenders are happy to be on the ball as we look to recycle and concentrate on looking to get the ball to our left hand side and back up the pitch.

At some point Blyth will have to react to our relentless torture of the right hand side of their defence. At which stage, we’ll look to bring Bernardeschi more into play. Whilst at times Bernardeschi will appear to be a spare leg, this is far from the truth. If Blyth try to cover the weakness in their right – then I’ll want to see beautifully weighted long balls from Hendrix or Baselli over to Bernardeschi on our right hand side and he can cut inside and go direct towards the goal at pace looking for quick 1-2’s with Vietto and Fischer to cause absolute mayhem in the Blyth third. A box of tricks, lots of energy and screaming pace – he’s the threat that they won’t see coming.

Dennis Praet is young (like the rest of our team) but he’s extremely composed for his age, and he has the important job of making sure that Hendrix/Baselli have a forward option to play the ball whenever possible. He can then look to play Gunter in, or look for a killer through ball into Vietto or Fischer, or as he is naturally a very exciting attacking player he can look to provide another option to any of my attacking play. He can also defend well however, so if we’re becoming swamped then it is essential that he looks to support to Baselli when we are under any form of pressure.

Whilst Vietto is playing as CF he is equally known as a player who can play behind the main forward, which is good – as he’s prepared to drop deep if we’re losing the midfield battle, and with Fischer cutting in from the left hand side and Bernardeschi cutting in from the right hand side he’s not always going to be the most advanced player. However, when Gunter/Fischer – or Bernardeschi are involved in the attack – he can leave waste to the opponent’s defensive midfielder and put immediate pressure on the centre backs, who best not be caught ball watching as Fischer/Bernardeschi close in on them. Vietto is also well known for his goal scoring efforts outside the penalty box as well as close range, and I am happy to encourage him to do this if he thinks that he is in prime position to do so. Vietto also combines exceptionally well with players around him i.e. Fischer, Bernardeschi and Praet so expect lots of clever movement, quick tidy interplay as we look to take apart the Blyth defence.

Subs: I genuinely feel that I have subs who can make a late impact here if we are in need of a vital goal; Klaassen and Halilovic come on for Bernardeschi and Praet on the 70th minute.

Notts County vs FK Qarabag tactics

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

---------Stones---------Bonucci-------Rugani---------------

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

------------Brahimi-------------------Thiago--------------------

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

Subs: Kongolo, Tielemans, Traore, Zivkovic, Depay

Game Plan: massive change this week for us, moving from 4-3-3 to 3-4-2-1. This formation will see us attempt to dominate possession and be attacking, while still being compact and effective in defence. The 3-4-2-1 formation with two withdrawn forwards is very demanding and will require the players to be flexible and to be able to transition quickly, which they are all well capable of.

The two withdrawn strikers are the most critical piece of the attack, when one shifts wide, the other tucks in behind the main striker to maintain midfield superiority. Thiago and Brahimi both possess the ability to play in the wide areas and through the middle, both have good pace and dribbling ability but they also have the vision and the passing ability when infield.

The main structural difference between our usual 4-3-3 and this weeks 3-4-2-1 is obviously the 3-man backline. Like all 3-man backlines it will have to play narrow and compact in defence and nullify the space for Pride's attack. Stones and Rugani as the wide CB's will use their pace in dealing with the attackers of Qarabag while Bonucci will use his intelligence and anticipation to cover in behind. However, the main focus of the 3-man backline isn't the defensive structure, it's the structure in possession. The main intent is to neuter the opposition press, offering 3 targets against a two-man press gives us too many passing options. With patience and guile, that press can be exhausted, if Qarabag decide to use a 3 man press then we can drop the wingbacks and with the 2 defensive midfield players this makes this a very effective formation against a side that likes to press high up the pitch as we expect Rex's men to do.

While both wide centerbacks function like true classical centerbacks, the middle one has to play exactly like a distributing midfielder. This makes it a fantastic position for Leo Bonucci and it also allows him a certain license in freedom of movement. Leo's best ability is to read opposition attacks, creating interceptions and tackles. If need be Leo can step into holding midfield to bring more bodies into the attack or he can drop deeper to act as a libero depending on the offensive setup of the opposition.

In the midfield we will pair Sergi Samper and Ander Iturraspe, Samper will act more as the distributor while Iturraspe will play more as a box to box player, although both players are more than capable of switching roles at times, which presents the opposition with a shifting movement pattern from midfield.

In this new system the linchpins of the attack become the wingbacks, we will use Darmian and Bernat who can stay wider and stretch opposition defenses giving more space in the center for the holding midfielders and centerbacks to step into. They are both capable of getting up and down the pitch for 90 minutes and possess great pace and excellent quality from wide areas, they are also both able to tuck in centrally at times and link with the attack and midfield, playing quick passes and moving into new positions quickly, they are both very dynamic players.

In Paco Alcacer we have a dynamic possession-based striker, Alcacer can drop deep and play as a false 9 along with his ability to shift out towards the wing and interchange with the wide midfielders, allowing him to bring a high degree of versatility to our attack. As mentioned previously Both Brahimi's and Thiago's ability to dribble, create, and play off a main striker anywhere along the attacking band gives them the freedom to completely take over a match offensively.


Subs if losing/drawing after 70, Memphis Depay for Darmian, switch to 4-2-3-1 more direct passing get the ball out wide quickly and let Brahimi and Depay cause havoc.

Scuffet

Stones---Bonucci---Rugani---Bernat

Samper----Iturraspe

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

Alcacer


If winning after 80 minutes: Adama Traore for Alcacer , Traore plays as the false 9, while Thiago moves into a midfield 3 with Samper and Iturraspe, our attacking play becomes slightly more direct, Adama to come short for the ball and look to keep possession as much as possible and wind down time.

Injured player on my bench

Change bench to; Subs: Zelenika, Verdonk, Klaassen, Andersen, Halilovic

Arsenal tactics

--------------------------Bravo--------------------------
Arias------------Vidic---------De Vrij-------------Cole
--------------------Gago-------Silva------------------
Haddadi-------------Sigurdson------------------Perisic
------------------------Ibrahimovic---------------------

Subs: Aranzubia, Fernandez, Xavi, Piatti, Adriano

General: Midfield domination and quick paced attacks. We feel that we have to pack the midfield and control that area as Tippy does have pace up top. We are intending to cut their supply with this domination and use the ball quick by running at their back line and exposing any 1v1 chance as I really fancy our players get the better of them with the quality we possess. We want to try and get the ball as quick to our attackers as possible. Defensively, we will not play a high line not be pushed too far back. The transition from defence to attack should be quick.

Bravo
One of the best keepers in the league and very reliable. He will be aggressive on corners and not let anyone bully him. He will be on his toes and if he is 100% sure that he can get to the ball, he will clear it to the touchline and head back to goal.

Vidic and De Vrij
Both have to be on their game of being aware of their strikers. We have to be strong in our tackles and be decisive but we shall not go to ground unecessarily. Vidic marshalls the back four and he will be the first to the attackers whilst De Vrij will be sweeping up the 2nd ball. They both compliment each other well and will be aware of the talents of their forwards and not allow them space to shoot. We have to be brave.

Cole and Arias
Both will predominantly be on defensive duty but seldomly charge forward when we are deep in attack. If one attacks, the other stays back and ilva will be back to help them so we don't lose our shape. The shall both be looking to intercept rather than tackle and use their strength to stay goal side. Both will be on the line of either post for defending corners and let Bravo concentrate on keep the centre safe. Distributuion wise, they shall both look to play it quick to the midfielders.

Gago and Silva
I went for Gago over Xavi for the defensive aspect to his game and he can assist Silva. One of them will pick up Ox if he is isolated with any defender 1v1 and make sure he is doubled up. We feel that if their midfield is stifled, they will have to resort to long balls. Gago will be pressing their midfield whilst Silva to shield. Silva will not be advancing forward but Gago certainly will and he passing range is immense to feed in Ibra and co.

Sigurdson, Haddadi and Perisic
Three of the most direct attacking midfielders and they shall be direct and go attack the defenders or feed in Ibra. I expect Haddadi and Perisic to get the better of their respective full-backs and go for goal. Siggy on the other hand will be looking to feed Ibra as he knows Ibra will hold the ball up well and bring others into play or go for goal and know he always hits the target. Defensively the wingers press their midfield and Siggy presses the centrally with Gago.

Ibrahimovic
Our talisman is very confident of scoring but he also knows that actions speak louder so he will be working the defence and trying to occupy free space and expect the midfield to find him. If Ibra is marked tightly, he will hold the ball up and slip in the attacking midfielders who will have space and Ibra knows a trick or two to get through. Ibra has the licence to shoot at sight. Defensively he will be pressing their defence and stay as high as possible.

Subs:
If winning: Haddadi off for Piatti 75mins (same role)

If losing: Gago off Adriano 70mins. Ibra to drop a little deep whilst Adriano plays off teh shoulder of the last defender and goes for goal.

Otherwise:
Xavi on for Gago 75mins. (Same role)

Week 3:

------------------------Enyeama-------------------------
Coke------------Luisao----------Masch----------Castro
-------------------Pirlo----------Blind--------------------
-------Robben--------T.Hazard----------Pedro---------
------------------------Immobile-------------------------

Subs: Van Aanholt, Hojbjerg, Afobe, Wilson, 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. 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 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

Blyth 4-2-3-1
……………………….Reina………………………
De Sciglio….Jagielka...Martins……Robertson
……………..Delph………….De Rossi………………..
Maggio…………Bonaventura…….Menez
…………………………Morata……………………………

Subs: Gordon, Barzagli, Rabiot, Insigne, Antonini

Captain: De Rossi
Corners: Menez/Bonaventura
Free Kicks: Menez/Bonaventura
Pens: Morata

Solid game against an as always well drilled Fishguard team, they may have been tonked last week but then we lost again  ourselves.
Injuries to Pienaar and Jay-Rod have changed slightly how we’d line-up but this is a fluid 4-2-3-1 that can quickly switch to a 4-3-3
We’re playing the possession game today keeping the ball and moving it around ourselves drawing Fishy onto us before going through the gears and smashing them with the pace and power of our front four.

Reina – Big strong good in the air and a fantastic shot-stopper…will be very vocal organising a fairly youthful Blyth defence (Jags excluded), with the ball will look to go quick whether it be long or short doesn’t matter as long as he chooses the right ball.

De Sciglio – My 22 year old starlet switches over to RB which I feel is his most comfortable side, even though he’s Italy’s first choice Left back. Quick over the ground and at over 6ft tall can deal with the high angled balls we may receive from Fishy’s bombardment today, a very attacking player will look to get up and down the flank knowing we have 2 midfielders covering his run. Defensively will show the man the line not dive in and use his pace to nip the ball away.

Jagielka – The old man of the team at 32 (infact inspite of us being labelled an old man team we only have 4, 30+ players in our starting XI) statistically the quickest player in the Prem so far this season will look to man mark Fishy’s central striker using his pace and power to out muscle him everytime the ball comes near, aerially he’s another 6-footer so that’s bread and butter (not a deliberate rhyme)

BMI – May only be 22 but is in my eyes already considered “experienced” over 100 games under his belt for Feyenoord plus a dozen for Porto, and 26 full caps for Holland. Another 6ft plus player, will act as the spare man at the back tidying up any loose balls from the Jags/vietto battle…his secondary duty is to track any runs from midfield that may be passed over to him by De Rossi/Delph. BMI gives me a left/right foot combo at the back so that’s worth a slot

Robertson – Re-signed last week and comes straight into the team, young Scottish player of the year last season and is now a full Scotland international, at just 5ft10 he’s the short-árse of the defence. Great engine and a cracking left foot he brings the perfect balance to that flank matching De Sciglio on the right.

De Rossi – So far in his Blyth career has been used as the holding midfielder but today he’s given the freedom to roam as part of a tandem of box-boxers. The man has it all including a world cup winners medal….great in the air strong in the tackle and with that certain rashness about him he can be a one man wrecking machine. Fishy have a very technical midfield but not the most physical and De Rossi will look to impose his will on proceedings and dominate the midfield giving us a platform to build from.

Delph – Sits in the middle with De Rossi and acts as the second box to boxer, has great stamina and decent pace so is well suited to this role, will look to keep it simple knowing he has Danny on his shoulder and our full backs pushing as well as our trident of Am’s dropping the “easy” ball is always going to be on for him to pick out, as he should have 4-6 players making the run for him as we look to overwhelm Fishy’s defence and cause some serious damage to their battered confidence after last weeks mullering.

Maggio – My man for all seasons started as a RW and has gradually moved further back but today he’s up top. Still the only man I remember seeing regularly out-running Jordi Alba and seriously dominating him…will look to put that blistering pace to good use as he attacks the space in behind the full back as he and De Sciglio link up to work that flank with either man running the over-lap..The other advantage of having a defender/winger there is that if needs be he can just sit in and track their left winger and thus nullifying any threat down that side…that said we can look a little lopsided at times,

Bonaventura – “Jack” comes in to make his debut playing in the #10 role, signed for Milan at the start of the season and has since collected 2 full Italian caps….very quick and very direct his runs from deep will cause Fishy all kinds of problems. Will look to roam the pitch getting stuck in and coming deep for the ball…as he’s a winger by trade as Maggio drops back, Jack will swing wide giving us effectively a 4-3-3 as we look to press the ball high up the pitch, it’s high risk but if we win it 30 yards out we’re within range of the goal

Menez – Another Milanista with 5 goals and 3 assists in 12 games for Milan, his inclusion is a no brainer, naturally both footed and lightening quick, impossible to double guess what he’s going to do. If the marker shows him the line that’s fine he’ll run it and bang a cross in, If he’s shepherded inside that’s ok too as he can cut in and unleash his other foot, a real box of tricks a defenders nightmare but a joy to watch

Morata – Big strong can play with his back to goal and hold it up or play off the shoulder, has nabbed 4 goals in 8 Serie A games so far this season and will look to get a few this week against Fishy, physically he’ll fancy his chances and with the pure speed of our AM’s we’re aiming to cause as much panic in Fishy’s defence as possible

Subs:

Drawing/Losing – No subs – Have no real game changers for kitchen sink time so it’s a case of plugging away and sticking to the plan

Winning 65 Mins
Although I’m tempted to say if it’s working then stick with it we make the following to see out the game
Antonini > Menez – Antonini will act as a defensive winger on the left in much the same way as Maggio is on the right, playing with two banks of full-backs protecting us from the inevitable onslaught.

Barzagli > BMI – Barzagli will come on and use all his know how and hard earned experience to guide the defence through the final 25 mins…the defensive line sits a little deeper as the old warhorse takes his place but he more than deserves his place.

Rabiot > Bonaventura – Rabiot is a very very tidy ball player and very efficient in possession over 90% pass completion by the young Frenchman, as we look to move the ball around and take the sting out of Fishy’s tiring legs

we finish the game in this formation: 4-1-4-1

…………………………………Reina……………………………………………
De Sciglio………Jagielka………Barzagli……..Robertson
………………………………..De Rossi…………………………….
Maggio………Delph……………..Rabiot…………Antonini
……………………………..Morata………………………………….