———————Courtois
Conti——Lindelof——Umtiti——Guerreiro
———————-Fabinho
————Keita——————Tielemans
Williams————Icardi———Dybala

Subs: Begovic, R.Pereira, Christensen, Milinkovic-Savic, Philipp, Bruma, Batshuayi

Captain: Thibaut Courtois
Corners: Youri Tielemans
Free Kicks: Youri Tielemans
Penalties: Mauro Icardi

Possession orientated 4-3-3 that is fluid in attack and compact in defending, with a high tempo build up matched only by the intensity of our off the ball work.

Build up play in a 2-5-3 with the CBs splitting, one slightly deeper than the other, and the FBs pushing into the midfield line to occupy the wide components of the opposition’s defensive lines. Fabinho will then position himself between first and second line of the opposition defence, forming triangles with the CBs in order to work the ball out. By positioning Fabinho between the lines, it pulls the first line back and opens up passing lanes for the CBs who can then look for balls towards the CMs who will pull into the half spaces, or it drags the 2nd defensive line forward which opens up an opportunity for vertical movement for the CMs to get behind the 2nd defensive line, allowing us to work in triangles via the CBs and Fabinho to open passing lanes to the CMs. If the route to the middle is block we transition to 3-4-3 and we form a diamond down the channel closest to the ball carrying CB, with the FB on that side pushed up and the opposite FB tucked in to provide an extra passing line. With the midfield 3 joining the pushed up FB to open up multiple diagonal passing lanes. Build up does not need to be one pass then move forward, use the excellent ball playing skills of the defence and Fabinho, one two’s if needed to draw the opposition press, we can move the ball faster than they can chase us and eventually we walloped up a lane out to a FB or into the half spaces.

Further into the attack we must use plenty of vertical movements, always playing between the lines in order to insure the opposition is facing our build up, allowing us to play in their blind sides. Vertical movement also means that defenders must make a decision whether to stick to defending the ball, or tracking runs, tackling a player or allowing them the ball, thus we can distort their preferred defensive shape. We have a whole host of vertical movements possible, with Tielemans and Keita to use the half spaces, forcing defenders to move out of position, particularly down the left where with Guerreiro occupying their FB we can get Tielemans and Dybala in the left half space and channel, linking up together. Icardi will be the same, he can drop deep, or run behind, this will either draw defenders out of the back line which opens up space for others to run into, particularly Williams who will look to play on the shoulder of FB and CB, one ball through to him and we are away, or Icardi makes a passing lane for the man on the ball so he can get in on goal himself. Dybala coming in to the left half space looks to provide a spark, he can pass, he can move, he can beat a man, he has total freedom. Verticality means we are not afraid to go backwards, that can be used to our advantage too to create time to open up extra passing lanes and players to change their runs. It also allows us to use a second passer, which will usually be Fabinho, so instead of Keita playing a risky ball to Williams, he goes back to Fabinho which drags the opposition forward and then Fabinho releases an easier ball over the top for Williams’ pace. In this way we can create plenty of passing overloads by keeping the CBs involved in attacking play and working openings using groups of 5-6 players, always taking advantage of the second passer to move the opposition press forward whilst our runners go behind, with Williams, Keita, Icardi all using their clever runs. The FBs can also get forward, one at a time with the other dropping to make a back 3, this way we use our attacking FB to occupy the opposition FB whilst the wingers comes infield into the half space.

As soon as the ball is lost we shift our defensive unit in relation to where the ball is, in order to pressure the ball carrier and close off the immediate passing lanes. Disrupt the opponents possession at an early stage, before they can build attacks. Then we drop into a 4-5-1 and look to be tight, compact but maintain pressure, with Icardi and the man closest to the ball carrier working to pressure the ball. This is where our CMs come in. Usually we aim to force them towards our right, so we use Icardi and Dybala to push their play by cutting the passing lanes to the CBs and DM and forcing the move out towards the FBs. By doing this we give Keita the chance to be the press initiator when we have dropped into the 4-5-1. He Squeezes (or Tielemans if they build up on the left) the passing lane to the deeper midfielders, whilst the winger intensely presses their FB, showing him the touchline, and our FB supports, squeezing the opposition in with three men, keep them wide where the space is minimal.

We always remain positioned relative to the ball, not players, therefore the defence must retain a high line, close to our midfield line in order to keep themselves positioned relative to the ball, making sure there are no gaps between our lines ball side for the opponents to play into. The compact attacking set up also means we always have 3-4 players in position around the ball when we use it to win it back quickly or force them wide. When we attack we send one FB forward, with the other tucking in to make a back three as one line cover, in order to give us good coverage of passing lanes closer to our defence if the opponents manage a quick counter, the two wide CBs cover the half spaces, leaving the middle CB free to cover any ball into the striker. This also gives Fabinho a smaller zone in which he needs to work, insuring he can position himself at all times in relation to the ball, ready to sweep up behind our CMs.

Subs:

If Winning: Milinkovic-Savic for Tielemans 70’, comes on to add power to the midfield. Pereira for Williams 80’, 4-5-1 more defensive minded wide man. Batshuayi for Icardi 85’, target man to hold the ball up and see the game out.

If Drawing: Philipp for Williams 70’, likes to drift between defenders and use off the ball movement and quick link ups. Batshuayi for Icardi 75’, more pace and physicality to battle the defenders, bring the other forwards into play more. Bruma for Tielemans 80’, goes out to the left, Dybala comes infield in a 4-2-3-1, look to stretch the game more then get Dybala drifting between the lines.

If Losing: Bruma for Tielemans 60’, 4-4-2, two wide men to really stretch play, Keita to press he midfield to win the ball back quickly with the help of Fabinho and look to transition to a 4-2-4 at pace. Milinkovic-Savic and Batshuayi for Fabinho and Williams 70’, Dybala goes to the right in a 4-2-4 with Savic fresh legs to keep pressing the opposition.

Hull: Bernardeschi, Dahoud, Pjaca, Hennessey

Penalties – most likely way for me to win = Milik

Overview of our 5-4-1 formation


---------------------------------Horn
---------------Stark-------------Süle------------- Kempf
Toljan--------------------------------------------------------Plattenhardt
---------------------Geis ----------------Biglia
-------Schöpf--------------------------------------------Forsberg
-----------------------------------Milik

Subs: Pollersbeck, Weiser, Klostermann, F. de Jong, Bentancur, Ziyech, Isak


Our defensive formation will rely heavily on the defensive abilities of our back-five. It consists of five defenders; three central defenders and two full-backs. In midfield, there will be two central midfielders and two wingers, while a lone striker completes the formation.

Stated in very simple terms, there are basically three ways to get past an opposition defence: a team can go around, through or over the top. Our system is designed to stop all those three from happening.

How it works

Our idea is to make it virtually impossible for the opposition to create chances in our defensive-third. Executed properly, it should force our opponents to take their goal attempts from 30-plus yards out, which is far enough for our highly gifted keeper to save most attempts.

Usually, teams have two central defenders but in this system there will is an extra defender who takes care of any loose balls and aerial threats, so attempting to create chances from crosses usually won’t yield anything for the opposition.

Our back-five will have much less distance between the defenders than a back-four, which makes it almost impossible to penetrate through the middle of that line. Since our back-five will drop to the edge of the 18-yard box, any balls played in behind will simply collected by Horn.

Since our defensive line is quite deep, our four midfielders will protect the remainder of the defensive third by seriously pressing for the ball just in front of the back-five.

When attacking, our side will morph into a 3-4-3 formation with our full-backs pushing into midfield to supply width in attacks, leaving three at the back. Our wide midfielders join the centre forward from the flanks, forming a front-three.

Aside from player errors, it is supposed to be almost impossible to score against a side set up in this manner because more than 95 per cent of goals come from the attempts in the final-third and the 5-4-1 formation packs nine outfield players into that third to prevent our opponent from creating any chances in that area.


Like any defensive formation, our players will be required to do a lot of hard work off the ball. Discipline is also essential because unnecessary movements can open up gaps and afford the opposition a chance to score.

Subs on 65 mins – I’m expecting great demands from my players so fresh legs about half way through the 2nd half should keep the work levels high
Weiser for Toljan, Isak for Milik, Klostermann for Stark

GAME WEEK 2 TACTICS

ARSENAL WEEK 2 (VS VILLA) 4-2-4

Injuries: Allan, Deulofeu, Lookman, Pellegrini


……………………………….Buffon……………………
Hysaj…………Marquinhos…..Rugani……..Shaw
…………………….Hamsik………Matuidi………………
Candreva……………………………………………..Lallana
………………………Auba…………Mandzukic……………….
Subs: Pickford, Blind, Howedes, Neves, Barbosa, Papu Gomez, Simeone

Our tough opener to the season continues with a home game against top-four chasing Aston Villa, Ludy is the Hipsters hipster so if past performance is an indicator he’ll continue his Jurgen Klopp inspired 4-3-3 gengenpress love-in. leave him too it
Last time out he went with a trident of N’zonzi/Modric/Marchisio who don’t strike me a s the best pressing trident out-there and with Cesc as the alternative it’s a slow midfield for us to circumnavigate.

We will lose the midfield match-up by going with a 2 in this “old fashioned” set-up but we don’t care, we’re not playing through the middle. We’re dissecting his system and turning them on their heads. Matuidi is our midfield destroyer and he’ll go about his business as usual, Hamsik is key to our plan today – as the expected heavy press comes from the Villa midfield, Hamsik will dink the ball over their heads t our front-four…simple as feck but brutally effective. Rinse and repeat until they learn their lesson.


Defence:

Nice and youthful defence this, Hysaj and Shaw will be given the freedom to push up nice and high giving us additional over-loads on the counter. Both have the required pace to get back…..Don’t dive in as we all know that Robben and Pedro need little excuse to hit the deck – if you are gonna go in strong make sure you hit Arjen man of glass properly. Villa will likely go one up-top so Marquinhos will be the man-marker and Rugani will be the sweeper/second knock defender.

The Front Four:

Candreva and Lallana will stay as far up as possible, Candreva the more old fashioned wide-man will tow the line and really peg Luis back, if Luis goes then let him, it won’t hurt I want him high up the pitch to collect Hamsik’s hail mary passes. Lallana on the other flank isn’t a natural winger but he’s a really clever player and warrants the shirt, will start off out-wide but as Shaw makes the run he’ll have the freedom to come inside and do his thing.
Auba has proven in Germany he’s more than just a pace abuser – he has a good touch and certainly carries a goal threat, he’ll play off the shoulder of his marker looking to use his pace to take him away from his man. Mandy is our muscle up-top will position himself infront of both of Villa’s CB’s and look for the pull downs and flick-ons – an underrated player in my opinion but the type of striker all sides could do with.

In summary:
4-2-4…..fast paced direct wing play, draw Villa’s midfielders on to Hamsik and then by-pass them with a ball over top to our front-four.

Subs:
60 mins – Howedes > Rugani, like for like, use his experience to see the game out.
70 mins – Barbosa > Lallana. Gabigol gets a run out against tiring legs.
75 mins – Papu Gomez > Mandzukic – More pace up-top njected into the side. Totally different players but after the physical battering Mandy brings for 75 mins, the pure pace of Papu will sting

Attacking 4-3-2-1

We go with a side full of pace, that can take the game to Chelsea. The best form of defence is attack, so we step up and attack, playing at a high tempo.

Kante setting the tone with his running. Thiago or Kante will sit when one of them goes running (with or without the ball).

The defence will be patient on the ball, as you'd expect they will be hugely important in keeping possession. But as soon as we get the ball to our midfield, we look to move the ball quickly, quick passing and moving. We have a lot of players with the ability to beat a man, play quick neat one twos and expose the Chelsea defence. We let our attacking players have attacking freedom in the final third.

Get the midfield trio in possession in the opposition half, with a fb bombing forward and Hazard and Mkhi looking for space we want them to control possession as high up the pitch as possible.

We go with two more central attacking players as we feel they can support Ronaldo closely and cause their cbs and defence more problems in these free roles crowding the central areas, dragging their players out of position. With our midfield trio behind these two, we feel we can get the best out of them by allowing them to find space.

One full back bombs forward at a time to give us width. Our midfielders are great in tight spaces and the likes of Hazard, Asensio and Mkhi who like to drift wide at times give us plenty options in attack.

In midfield, Kante reading the play looking to win the ball back as the dm, Thiago also important defensively, capable of playing that dm role but we want him in cm in a Xavi type role and covering when Kante does press. Asensio the more attacking of the trio, but gets the nod for his willingess to do the dirty work. At the back, Musacchio gets the nod as we feel a sweeper type cb that reads the play well is what we need in our back four

-------------------- Neuer
Valencia - S.Ramos – Musacchio - Marcelo
------ Thiago.A -- Kante -- M.Asensio
-------- Mkhitaryan --- Hazard
------------------ Ronaldo

Subs. Schmeichel, Otamendi, Danilo.P, Bakayoko, A.Gomes, Douglas Costa, Diego Costa

Defending in numbers

We look to control the opposition by pressing the space with a narrow rigid defensive unit, only allowing them to play in areas we want them to. When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel.

Draw them in to positions where they can’t hurt us, and then try and win the ball back. Then get forward quickly.

We always keep one fb back. We have a quick defence and energy and pace in midfield to stop quick breaks. Tactical fouling where we have to to stop counters.

As Chelsea advance into higher areas and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-4-1-1. Mkhi being the hard worker of the two drops to rm, Asensio lm. In this formation we narrow to the side of play Chelsea are attacking.

Hazard drops to sit goalside on Busquets. Nothing else required, just sit on him. Take away their ability to pass back to him. The wide man of the 4 that comes narrow looks to pick up their other cm/dm.

Kante presses the space in front of our cbs, Thiago looks to pick up their most attacking cm, pass him on to Musacchio if required. We'd then have two cms free in front of the defence to cut out any potential through balls through the middle. Isolate their forwards. Force them wide and deep.

In this tight formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Kante will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, getting across to cut out any danger.

Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.

Attack.

Get the ball to our midfield trio, get them, Mkhi and Hazard linking up with quick passing. Look to get Ronaldo in behind, and get balls to him in the box, from wide or deep positions. Mix it up.

The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game.

We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Thiago, Asensio and the AMs will always be looking for the killer ball. If it is not on, we are happy to keep the ball moving and keep possession.

Ronaldo has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals.

Subs. If winning after 70 mins bring on Diego Costa for Ronaldo. Give them something totally different to deal with.

If winning after 75 mins bring on Danilo for Asensio. More power in the midfield and more defensive cover. Thiago now the most attacking of the midfielders.
If winning after 78 mins bring on Douglas Costa for Mkhitaryan. Fresh pace.

If drawing after 70 mins bring on Diego Costa for Mkhitaryan and Danilo for Asensio. 4-3-1-2. Fresh power. Thiago most attacking of trio. Give more freedom to attacking trio.

If drawing after 80 mins bring on Douglas Costa for Thiago. 4-2-2-2. Playing direct with pace out wide.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Danilo and Diego Costa for Asensio and Mkhitaryan. 4-3-1-2. Fresh power. Thiago most attacking of trio. Give more freedom to attacking trio.

If losing after 80 mins bring on Douglas Costa for Kante. 4-2-2-2. Attack.

------------------------- De Gea --------------------------
Carvajal ---- L.Bonucci ---- Romagnoli ---- Kurzawa
--------------- S.Khedira ---- Busquets -----------------
-- Sterling ---------- Griezmann ----------- Neymar --
------------------------ S.Aguero --------------------------

Gudino, Danilo, Caldara, Cabellos, Alli, Mbappe, Poulsen

A slight change with Griezmann moving to No.10 and Sterling coming in, this is looking to push there fullbacks out wide and stretch there defence and Griezmann also more of a goal threat from a central position against one of our main rivals.

In goal De Gea a fantastic shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, shouting instructions to his defenders. Out very 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.

Bonucci in beside Romagnoli, on this occassion Romag will man mark the CF. Romag is a very cultured defender who is quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, powerfully built so marking the CF should be no trouble as he has to man up to him, will keep him 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. Even tho it is Ronaldo he must show commitment and not be fearful of the strikers skills. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Bonucci alongside is fantastic in the air, so will mark any other players that come into our danger area, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger. A clever player who can intercept attacks very quickly before they begin and he does this with great effect and simply takes the ball away from attackers. If he has to help his defensive partner with REonaldo they simply double up on him. He too can carry the ball out from defence but we must be careful and only do this when it is possible. His passing is too top class as he at times plays the simple ball, however his range is fantastic and can quite easily ping a 50 yards pass forward for the front line to chase or take down. Both go up for corners and are a huge threat.

Carvajal and Kurzawa at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Both are perfect for this, They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. This is a vital clash in this game. They will be up against quality wingers so look to force him away from goal and backwards. I want them to attack when in no danger (one at a time, dont be left exposed)so time these runs perfectly. One sits back a bit and allowing the other to attack, this is keeping a 3 at the back at all times. Their marking abilities are sound, both have good positional sense and very quick, do not make rash desicions and will stay on their feet. When one goes the other stays as they look to make an extra man down the flank for our wingers to cut inside or play neat one twos to free the wingers up as there fullbacks get dragged out of position.

We have a very industrious pairing in the middle, Busquets to stop the AM getting the ball from midfield to the striker, he must be right on top of him looking to close him down at the quickest opportunity, let him dictate play and there striker will get plenty chances, we must not let this happen. So quick and into him, fairly and stop this! Busquets himself will look to dictate from deep as he picks up from the defence and looks to drive us forward with precision passing. Khedira will go v the second most advanced midfielder or anyone else that is around that area. Even tho Busquets has the man marking role Khedira covers much of the pitch, hassling and harassing anyone who has the ball, he doesn't give any one time on the ball as he moves side to side and forwards and back, this style pressurizes the opposition to pass erractically. Our deep lying pair will look to pass and move always look for the return pass. When we have the ball Khedira in particular will get us moving forward from the centre as he pushes up to bring our forwards into the game. When they have then close down the CM, he will look to ping the ball about so get to him before that opportunity arises.

Griezmann at No.10 is fast and direct he will be looking to support Aguero as much as possible and will be driving the Leicester players back which also stops them becoming a threat, like said he is quick and direct and tricky on the ball, he is in for ALli/Pogba for this as we feel Leicester pose a massive threat to us so if we force them back with our front four then it nullifies there attack slightly. Spread the play, he is in a free No.10 role so at times may even find himself switching with Neymar to break their defence up. Kante doesn't move very far forward so no real need to track back, however if Kante does then simply follow him and harass him to lose the ball and possession.

Neymar and Sterling are known for their creativity, speed, and technical ability and are fearless, explosive attacking midfielders who can change the game with a turn of pace or a dribble. More importantly both scorers of wonderful and important goals. Both technically excellent in limited areas, fast explosive acceleration during the first ten yards. Which more often than not takes them passed defenders and allows them to get into dangerous areas. Always play with there heads up looking for the runs of others to get the ball into there feet. Sterling will look to drive down the line and keep it to the outside making them come to him playing like a proper winger, which will leave holes in the centre of the pitch hopefully he will get the ball into. When they have the ball look to stick close to fullbacks/wingbacks and stop them coming forward especially there fullbacks, Sterling must track him when he has the ball. Neymar just track the fullbacks and use pace to get back and in around there faces to stop them becoming a threat. Always be looking for Alli inside as the four make an awesome quartet in behind Aguero and a scary proposition for there slowish back line. Neymar will just do what he does best and look to bamboozle defenders with his touches of magic, can move centrally if Griezmann comes wide and support Aguero.

Aguero will get plenty chances, hat trick last week so bang in form, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front four/five will be a threat today we must go for it and keep pace with the league leaders. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Neymar and Sterling, Griezmann will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side. But especially look for Alli as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.

Captain - Bonucci
Penalties - Neymar
Free kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers

Subs

Losing
70 Mins - Mbappe for Sterling, Griezmann will move out to the right and Mbappe up top with Aguero
80 Mins - Caldara and Alli for Carvajal and Kurzawa we go all out

M.Caldara - Bonucci - Romagnoli
Khedira Busquets
Griezer Alli Neymar
Mbappe Aguero

Winning -
70 Mins - Ceballos for Aguero , he goes to the left of Busquets to dictate play and Griezmann goes up top
80 Mins - Mbappe for Griezmann, Danilo for Kurzawa to freshen these positions up

Drawing -
70 Mins - Alli for Sterling, Griezmann to RW and Alli to No.10
80 Mins - Mbappe for Aguero, Danilo for Kurzawa

Tottenham Hotspur v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

Injuries: Mustafi, Baines, Amiri, Fekir

------------------ Ter Stegen
-- Cancelo - Pepe - Cahill - Hector
------------ A.Herrera - Matic
Lucas M ------- Mata -------- HM Son
-------------------- Higuain

Subs: Rulli, Mathieu, Trippier, Jorginho, Gaitan, Rooney, Immobile

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

A very tough game today, but we can get at this Tottenham side who are definitely vulnerable defensively, so I feel we can target them down the middle and create chances for Higuain to finish.

Playing a positive 4-2-3-1, Ter Stegen in goal, Cancelo, Pepe, Cahill and Hector in defence, Herrera and Matic in midfield, Lucas Moura, Mata and Heung-Min Son behind Higuain upfront.

This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting three points today. Tottenham have some world class players in their side although we have some class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front four with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a duo who can dictate the game in Herrera and Matic, with Mata ahead of them, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Lucas Moura at RW and Heung-Min Son at LW both able to use their pace and get at the Tottenham defence with Cancelo and Hector overlapping. Higuain upfront to give us a physical presence and somebody who is able to hold up possession as well as create chances for himself and his teammates.

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

Pepe/Cahill - Pepe to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Cahill to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their second striker/AM making runs from midfield. If they play two strikers pick up a man each and leave Matic to deal with the AM. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.

Cancelo/Hector - Both of you to force the Tottenham wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Lucas/Son as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Higuain and link with Herrera/Matic/Mata. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Herrera/Matic - Herrera playing the box to box role, assist Matic in dealing with the Tottenham attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Matic stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Matic to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Herrera to burst forward to join the front four on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others.

Lucas Moura/Heung-Min Son - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Tottenham fullbacks and get crosses in, but both of you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Higuain with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Herrera/Matic/Mata, and capitalise on the space Higuain's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.

Mata - Mata to burst forward to join the front three as our AM, look to receive the ball and run at the Tottenham defence, bring the ball to create space for others and look for the runs of Lucas/Son/Higuain. Shoot if you get into position, also force the Tottenham defenders to foul you when you're attacking as setpieces could be our best chance to score today. Link with Higuain regularly. Able to drop into midfield with Herrera/Matic when under pressure and make a 4-5-1. Get behind Higuain on occasion.

Higuain - you will be expected to occupy the Tottenham centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Lucas/Son/Mata on occasion.

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

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Mata off, Jorginho on. Switch to a flat 4-5-1 with Jorginho alongside Herrera and Matic in midfield. Lucas and Son wider and look to punish Tottenham on the break.

If drawing: Lucas and Mata off, Gaitan and Rooney on. Same formation but with Son at RW, Gaitan at LW and Rooney at AM/SS behind Higuain. Change of ideas to force the winner.

If losing: Pepe and Matic off, Immobile and Rooney on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, back three of Cancelo - Cahill - Hector, Herrera the playmaker, Lucas - Rooney - Mata - Son behind a front two of Higuain and Immobile. Push for goals.

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-----------------------Lloris
Florenzi-----Hummels-----Godin-----Bertrand
--------------------Casemiro
--------------Pjanic----------Radja
Salah-----------------------------------Mane
----------------------Suarez
Subs
Hart, Koulibaly, Wendell, Ozil, Di Maria, Coutinho, Kane


Lloris is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control of the situation, he and the defence have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance being conceded When he has the ball he will look to offload quickly in the direction of the front 5 to get those quick counters started.


Godin is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counter attacks, Both CB"s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid sliding tackles unless necessary instead looking to use our experience to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space with the occasional long ball to the front 3 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.




For the full backs today the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly and launching an attack of our own.

 Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who they go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.


The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 3 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.


Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Suarez, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece due to the ability of our set piece takers. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.



When Suarez is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead of the defender and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul, his unpredictable style when on the ball will look to cause a bit of doubt in the minds of the defenders as he has a knack of bouncing it off peoples shins and it landing in a perfect position for himself to create a chance for himself or others. He also has a knack of being the first to react to get onto rebounds or parries and taking those one touch chances.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.



Set Pieces


Corners - Pjanic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Suarez work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Salah and Mane flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Casemiro looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Radja takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, as well as occasionally providing the short option to try and draw 2 defenders out of the box.





Free Kicks - Suarez takes Direct FK's



For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners





Penalties - Suarez is the designated taker.

Subs



If Winning


70 mins - Firmino for Salah - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.




81 + 85 Mins - Florenzi for Pjanic and Di Maria for Salah - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Ozil for Radja - Add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.

If Losing



67 Mins - Koulibaly, Kane and Ozil for Bertrand, Casemiro and Clyne - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.

ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1 SPECIFIC

———————————— Oblak
Aurier — Alderweireld — Rudiger — Luis
————— N'zonzi —— Marchisio
Robben ————— Fabregas ————— Reus
———————————— Benzema

SUBS: Chesney, Jones, Davies, Kovacic, Bernardo, David Silva, Cavani

Captain: Marco Reus
Corners: Luka Modric
Crossing free-kicks: Marco Reus
Shooting free-kicks: Cesc Fabregas
Penalties: Marco Reus

Tino has already been pretty public about how he is gonna play against me. Therefore it is up to us to dominate the ball and create the amount of chances needed to win the game by playing on the front foot. All my front four players have goals in them. We need the win today to give us the momentum needed to help power us into the champions league places in the early stage of the season.

Defending

In terms of defending, it is important that we are aware of the threats posed by my team having the lions share of possession. Tino will want his team to be attacking, and while I believe that my team will pin them back for most of the match there are still going to be windows of opportunity of them when they have a spell of possession and on the counter. His attack can be pace merchants on the counter which can present an immense danger if not careful. In our case it is important that we are always aware of the possibility of that counter. I consider striker and wingers the biggest threats, so when we are attacking in their third N'zonzi will sit close to our centre halves making sure we are not too exposed. We will also have a full back sitting back depending on which side their goal scoring wide forward is on, his wide forwards will likely be back defending anyway but their pace will carry him forwards very quickly.

To win the ball back, we will sit off them mostly and only press them around our box. Giving them lots of time on the ball. I will expect everyone in the back six to be involved in that. Robben and reus will get up and down the pitch all match if they need to. If we happened to get pressured back into our own third we will stop the pressuring but go very compact instead, and only squeeze spaced out wide to prevent crosses being thrown in. We wait it out and attack again.

The block of four of Boateng Alderweireld N'zonzi and Marchisio will form a four man block around their striker when out of possession. Marchisio and N'zonzi will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line while Alderweireld will mark their striker tightly with Rudiger sweeping behind if he does get through. Fabregas will come back in the defending phase to help win the ball back with the two midfielders or receive the ball to launch a quick attack when they lose the ball.

Set piece defending is man to man, his centre halves will need to be watched carefully by our centre halves.

Attacking

I expect that Arsenal will be gung ho Tino style and steaming forwards when out of possession, which generally means that we'll need some knife through butter kind of passes to slice them open. Alderweireld is made for that role so we naturally recycle the ball to him if an attack breaks down, doing so is also a safety measure to not concede stupid possession in midfield when harried by their midfield dynamites. Alderweireld has the ability to pick passes and spray balls out onto the wings with ease.

Before we have to go back to use Alderweireld however, we have Marchisio in the middle to control the tempo of the match with his vision and precision of passes. We will have all kinds of movement around him from the likes of Robben Reus Fabregas and one of the full backs that's not watching their goal scoring wide forward. We will have Reus Fabregas Robben overwhelm Their midfielders while Benzema will be enough of a handful for kompany and van dijk to deal with with his exceptional movement in and out of space. The three will also drag their players out of position so that Marchisio and Fabregas can be at their most effective. The one attacking full back that comes forward will help create an overload and stretch the pitch.

Benzema will be key for our attack, he'll create a lot of space, play with his back to goal and lay it off for the three, also allowing us to spread the threat of our team as he will bring everyone into play. His style will help create crucial gaps between Arsenal's defence and midfield for our other three attackers to exploit since Benzema confuse their defensive line.

Subs

Winning
75 - We will need to lock the game down and close it off while giving the midfield some energy. We will bring on Kovacic for Fabregas and have him in midfield in a 4-3-3. This is so that Kovacic can drop into midfield to provide a more solid base for us.

75 - Robben's legs may tire towards the end of the game so we bring on Bernardo Silva in his place to help chase down balls.

80 - Cavani for Benzema, same reason as above.

Drawing/Losing
65 - Clearly we need to change it up a bit, therefore we take off Marchisio and bring on David Silva and go 4-1-4-1 to provide a bigger threat on their goal.

75 - If we're still not winning, we bring on Kovacic for N'Zonzi so that our midfield can provide more ammunition for our forwards.

85 - Go all out, bringing Cavani on for Fabregas there's more chance of chances getting finished.

If we get into a winning position after any of the drawing/losing subs, we go 4-4-2 to make sure that we have two banks of four to effectively defend the lead, while playing on the counter attack.


Red Card:
In all cases Fabregas subbed off, if Fabregas red then no change
If goal keeper, chesney
If full backs, Davies
If CB, jones
If centre mids, Kovacic
If wingers, Bernardo
If striker, cavani

---------------------Forster--------------------
Walker----Kompany----van Dijk----D.Rose
----------------------Ndidi----------------------
-------------Dembele----Verratti-------------
Mahrez---------------------------------L.Sane
---------------------Lukaku---------------------

Butland, Keane, Klaassen, Shaarawy, Merino, M.Dembele

In Forster, Kompany and van Dijr, few have a ver strong central core to our defence like we have done in the past and you have to keep it strong in the middle, these three experienced players give us a solid foundation to build on. Forster remains vigilant at all times, with his huge frame he is a tough obstacle to get through, quick on his feet for a big man and a very good shot stopper. Built a very good relationship with his two centre backs so knows when to come off his line and when not too. van Dijk being the more mobile of my two centre backs will man mark the centre forward, A calm uncompromising defender, Van Dijk’s a man of considerable size & strength, Virgil commands aerial duels. One of his biggest strengths is his ability to win aerial duels defensively & provides an aerial threat going forwards too, his marking abilities are top notch also. When he has the ball he is very comfortable bringing the ball out to start from the back. Kompany beside him is robust and no nonsense, he will take care of any other business, powerful in the air and an outstanding reader of the game. Also a huge threat at set pieces so both he and VVD go up for corners leaving our fullbacks and Ndidi back. We have attacking fullbacks who will bomb up and down the pitch to support the forwards, both Walker and Rose are quick and skilful for defenders so are a huge plus for us going forward, however we will be under the cosh at times so they must be robust and keep the wingers at bay and think about the runs they are making.

Ndidi offers the defence protection, he has a simple role, he will look to boss the deep midfield area and stop the attacking midfielders or indeed a No.10 or second striker. He will look to patrol that area from side to side, doesn't have to exert himself, just be clever and look to fill th spaces the opposition player will look to accommodate. Dembele and Verratti will be just ahead of him either side, I feel this is a powerful midfield with plenty of energy to move around the pitch. I am looking for these two to drive us forward into opposition areas of danger, Verratti is the pass master whilst Dembele is the powerhouse who will push forward, both good defensively so will create, with Ndidi a very tight knit midfield. They will look to supply Lukaku with as many balls as they can, with Dembele pushing forward to support him. Also, with quick wingers making themselves available we will hope to push them backwards, instead of them coming at us.

Mahrezand Sane are dangerous and will be a threat, Sané provides fast and direct wing play. His ability to use his physical strength and superb technique when running with the ball at pace allows him to swiftly stretch the opposition defence, often with devastating results. So along with Lukaku these two will look to form a fantastic relationship as we will need them on the best form for the majority of the season. Mahrez is also very direct but he likes to come inside and support more centrally, he is a dynamic winger who loves to go for goal so I expect him to be a huge goal threat not just today but for the season. I expect both wingers to create a lot of problems especially when Rose and Walker are up supporting them. I want Sane and Mahrez to shuffle back into a midfield five when we don't have possession.

Lukaku is powerful, strong, brilliant in the air and immensely talented. He scores goals; lots of them, and in all sorts of ways. Having the likes of Verratti and Sane supplying for him I cant see him not scoring, he can beat defenders for pace, he can bully them, he will also have to be clever against defenders as he makes his runs trying to lose them. Mahrez will be one he looks out for running in from the right to support him.

Captain is van Dijk
Penalty taker is Lukaku
Free Kicks taken by Verratti
Corners by the wingers

Substitutes

If we are losing on 70 minutes Moussa Dembele will come on for Moussa Dembele! The striker for the midfielder and we will go 4-4-2 with Shaarawy coming on for Mahrez at the same time, Klaaassen on for Ndidi on 80 minutes and he will look to drive into support.

If we are winning Merino will come on for Dembele and he will offer much need new legs in the centre of the pitch this is on 70 minutes and he will drop in beside Ndidi and on 80 minutes Dembele the striker will come on for Lukaku

Drawing sees Klaassen for Dembele and Shaarawy for Mahrez on 70 minutes

Weiser, de Jong, Ziyech, Pjaca


---------------------------Horn
Toljan-----------Süle--------Kempf-------Plattenhardt
-------------------Biglia---------Dahoud
-Bernardeschi-----Schopf----------Forsberg
---------------------------Milik

Subs: Hennessey, Klostermann, Stark, Augustinsson, Geis, Bentancur, Isak


Our defensive unit consists of Niklas Süle and Marc-Oliver Kempf paired up at centre-back, Jeremy Toljan at right-back and Marvin Plattenhardt at left-back, with Lucas Biglia and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Biglia and Dahoud we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.

The strength of our double pivot is that Dahoud can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Biglia can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.

Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.

Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Dahoud’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.

With Dahoud running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Lucas Biglia.

A holding midfielder through and through, Biglia is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Biglia such a talent.

The attacking unit consists of Federico Bernardeschi, Alessandro Schopf and Emil Forsberg as our band of three attacking midfielders with Arkadiusz Milik as our lone central striker.

Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.

In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.

Once we have won the ball back, often by Biglia or Dahoud, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.

Toljan and Plattenhardt can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Biglia and Dahoud can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Federico Bernardeschi and Emil Forsberg, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Alessandro Schopf our attacking central midfielder’s diminutive physique and low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Schopf is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer who will look to play Forsberg, Bernardeschi or Milik in via fast passing combinations.

Milik is predominantly an old-style centre forward, however he does possess the technical qualities and versatility to shine in this game. He’ll be physically imposing and not only will he be a threat in the air, but he can also score via great volleys. We’ll look towards his wonderful finishing and passing ability and he’ll also display good positioning and teamwork, and won’t be afraid to help his team defend.


Subs on 80 mins
Isak for Milik and Klostermann for Toljan

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

-----------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
---------------Bailly---------Verthonghen---------Ake--------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------Sanson-------------Kessie------------------------
Coleman-------------------------------------------------------------M Alonso
-----------------------------------James--------------------------------------------
-------------------------Vardy----------Jesus----------------------------------

Subs - Batalla, Holgate, Carvalho, Willian, Keita, Calhanoglu, Iheanacho

CAPTAIN - VERT
CK'S - JAMES
FK'S - JAMES
PENALTIES - JAMES

Second game of the season and we'll continue with the 3atb formation but put one more striker on and play the 352.

This formation is solid in defence with 3 CB's but also offers an attacking outlet with 2 very energetic CM's and an AM and 2 strikers who will look to use their pace to their advantage. I want us to play a deep defensive line so the oppo cant run in behind us. When we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.

Defence
I got a top class keeper in goal so he will be hard to beat. The defence is well balanced, with all 3 CB's playing in the top flight regularly irl. Bailly and Ake have the pace to play the 3atb formation with ease. Verthonghen will focus on the oppo striker and will look to stick close to him and to watch out for his attacking runs. Wingbacks will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box.

Centre Mids
Sanson + Kessie
Kessie main job is to act as a destroyer in the centre. When the oppo AM has the ball close him down asap. Sanson will play a b2b role. Sanson has the ability to pick out a pass while Kessie is an engine which can run all day long. They complement each other perfectly.

Wing backs
Coleman + Alonso
Coleman and Alonso will look to help both in attack and defence. When the oppo has the ball come back into the defence to make a rock solid back 5. Make forays forward when we have the ball in the oppos side of the pitch but track back when we don't. Get some low crosses into the box as Vardy and Jesus are very good at playing in between the lines.

Attack Mid
James Rodriguez
The architect, he will look to use his passing ability to create chances for our team. Shoot from range if you see an opening and make runs into the box from time to time.

Strikers
Vardy + Jesus
I want you both to use your pace to to play off the oppo shoulders and beat the offside trap. Vardy will look to close down the oppo asap when they have the ball and to be vary of through balls as he is very good at timing his runs. Jesus will be allowed to dribble more and play quick one twos with the team and use his agility to find space in the box.

Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Change formation to 343. Bring on Balde Keita for Alonso and Willian for Coleman. Benteke on for Kessie aswell. Play a very high line and try and get a goal.

-------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
------------Bailly---------Verthonghen---------Ake--------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Willian----------------Sanson--------James--------------------Keita
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------Vardy-------Benteke-----------Jesus-----------------------


Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take off James and put on Carvalho in DM. Benteke on for Jesus aswell to offer more hold up play support.

-------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
------------Bailly---------Verthonghen---------Ake--------------
---------------------------------Carvalho-------------------------------------------
------------------------Sanson------------Kessie------------------------
Coleman-------------------------------------------------------------Alonso
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------Vardy------------Benteke------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Iheanacho ON for Jesus
Carvalho ON for Sanson
Calhanoglu ON for James

-----------------Cech
Soares---Benatia----Luiz--Bernat
---------Krychowiak---Kondogbia
Walcott-----------Payet---------Iwobi
------------------ Paco

Subs: Gunn, Holding, Zouma, Ramsey, Gabbiadini, Cazorla, Falcao

Subs:

Falcao for Paco - 65 mins
Ramsey for Kondogbia - 70 Gabbiadini for Walcott - 80 mins

In today's game we are playing an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation. We want the win and we are gonna get it.

As team we will play super dooper quick. Daze the opposition. We need to be getting the ball to our pacey players. They will bring the players away from the positions thus allowing our other players to take advantage. This also means quick passing in order to keep the fast players in space.

Defensively we will play a high line and keep their forwards offside while trying to open up space for our faster players. This means our full backs will need to stick with our centre backs when we are off the ball. We will have a defensive midfielder who will stay just in front of our defence to protect them so we are not at a total weakness of being counter attacked.

Attacking wise we will get the ball into space and the fast players will take advantage. The full backs in an attacking sense will also help. We need to play quick passes, quick runs and quick changes of direction. We also need to allow a quick response to recover from mistakes.

If we are winning from the 70th minute I want us to start to keep the ball for longer periods and hold possession. Slow play right down and seriously time waste.

Positional Tactics

Our full backs defensively will stick in a high line with our centre backs. We need to trap our opposition offside making it hard for them to counter attack. However in times when it doesn't work they need to push the opposition back and reduce the space made available on this side of the pitch. They need to prevent the wingers from running in behind them and cutting inside of them. Offensively they will need to move forward with the ball and use up the space left by the opposition. When our wingers cut in, I want our full backs to take up the wide position and put the crosses in.

Our centre backs will be apart of this high line we are playing. Use their strength and pace to keep the opposition offisde and then clear the ball away. They must stay on guard for any potential runners and therefor close them off as soon as they get going. We need to limit the opportunity for them to find space by keeping goal side of them at all times. They need to use their height and strength to beat them off the ball. They also must be aware of any high balls into the box. Offensively only go up for corners.

We will play a defensive midfielder today who will protect the defence and hold up play. This means filling the gaps and creating a defensive wall to stop the opposition from breaking through. Kondogbia must keep with the playmaker by discouraging him from moving into space, limit the chances he's able to create and keeping goal side of him at all times. Limit the available players for them, and force them to pass the ball back. Offsensively I will not allow Kondogbia to go forward.

Krychowiak will control play more by creating and forming the attacks. He should look to move forward to be the new option. His passing must be quick, slick and clever. He with Payet will control our passing that allows the pacy players to take advantage of defensive frailties.

Our attacking midfielder will be Payet who will look to run into space and finding the opportunity to change and dictate the game. He must force the opposition to open up space and allow the attacking players to break through. I want him to move about all across the centre and depending on move towards the right or the left to the ball. Defensively he must prevent people running forward and creating more ability for runs. He must try and collect the ball and release it to our wingers to form attacks since.

Our wingers need to use plenty of their skill, strength, power, pace and physicality to open up the opposition. I want them to force the attacks straight at them, bring the defenders out and then allow our attackers to take advantage. They must cut inside, run in from behind and cross the ball in so that our attacks don't end up predictable. Try and use our full backs as much as possible when attacking the opposition so that having to handle more than one player forces a mistake. Defensively they should fall back and help the full backs to defending and prevent the wingers from creating opportunities. Walcott should stay further forward as most players will look to leave the ball for him in the next attack.

Our striker needs to use their brain to workout how the defence works. They need to run at them using their strength and skill to cause nerves in their defence and force mistakes. The striker needs to open up space and find space as he is good at getting On the end of crosses and opportunities created. He needs to use his height to open the scoring and also use his power to force his way into goal scoring opportunities. Defensively I want him to move back to the centre circle and wait for the midfield to supply the ball to him in the event of an attack, if after 70 mins and we are winning I want the striker to move further back to control and protect the nation. We just time waste as much as possible.

Pens: Payet
Long FK: Payet
Short FcK: Payet
Corners: Payet

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

------------------ Ederson
Juanfran --- Varane -- Javi.M --- Ghoulam
---------- Wanyama ---- Vidal
O.Dembele ------ Eriksen -------- A.Sanchez
---------------- Lewandowski

Subs:
Meret, Tah, Mendy, Gundogan, Martial, Mertens, Werner

Liverpool at home, good side but fairly inexperienced, we go in with a balanced side allowing our attackers to express themselves and have a right go today.

4-2-3-1, possession based.
Onus on playing with zip and circulating the ball around with pace, building from the back and moving the ball into mf zones, passing in triangles with plenty of quick movement off the ball.

As we progress we start to get it wider, looking to create holes and stretching the opposition, plenty of link up play between our front 4, creating a number of opportunities in the final third.

It starts from the back. Ederson is very able with his hands and feet and should look to find our players in space.

The CB duo are excellent on the ball, very good passing success rates and should look to move the ball into mf quickly. At times collecting short from Ederson and getting their heads up, looking for movement from the attackers and attempting diagonal or long balls into feet, using Lewandowski as a target man to bypass their mf.

Wanyama and Vidal, a midfield pair that will provide plenty of energy and will work their socks off for the side to allow others around them to express themselves. Today should look to stamp their authority with their work rate and power looking to take a grip on mf and shielding our defence, oppressing the opposition midfielders and covering every blade of grass out there.

When attacking, Wanyama sits just infront of the defence and makes himself available for a pass back. A passing outlet if we are being vigorously pressed whilst also allowing us to create space when working the ball around in triangles.

Eriksen will look to work in a 3, looking to work in tandem with the duo to close down quickly and penetrating with his array of passes from deep. At times sitting with Wanyama and allowing Vidal to make his trademark burst forwards.

Flanks will be key as we look to expose them in wide areas and create space in midfield.

Ousmane and Sanchez need to get involved as much as possible looking to influence the game, both excellent dribblers that more often than not will beat their man, need to get their heads down and accelerate with pace, linking with our fullbacks as they hug the touchline and open up the space ahead.

Interchanging, At times cutting inside and swapping positions so we have plenty of movement and options off the ball, for instance Eriksen can come on the right allowing Ousmane to play more central, attacking the heart of their defence and making our attacks more unpredictable.

When in possession, our fullbacks take it in turns to burst forward. One sits back allowing the other to roam forward looking to provide the width, allowing the wingers space to drive into or an option on the outside.

Lewandowski plays his natural game, occupy the CB’s, link with others and make himself an outlet. He doesn’t need many chances to score so always on his toes and look to score when he gets the chance.

When Liverpool are in possession we will look to get 10 men the ball and look to press. Don’t allow them to play out from the back and hurry their passes. Our attackers form a trio looking to cut avenues into midfield as one goes to press the ball, force them into tight spots with their backs to goal towards the touchline.

If they advance we then form a rigid structure behind the ball looking to press the space, only allowing them to play where we want them too, stifle the midfield and stop them from picking their passes into an attacker, Vidal man-man their AM, looking to harass him and using his physical prowess to really put him off his game, Eriksen and Wanyama cutting off mf lanes.

Fullbacks and wingers should interlink throughout, off the ball our wingers need to track back and help with defensive duties preventing overloads. Keep them wide and give them no space to work with

Essentially a 4-5-1, our three in mf working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wingers get back to help our FB’s.

Key is leaving no gaps or space to get in behind, working as a staunch unit so their quick attackers have to come deeper to get involved making their first point of contact with the ball much deeper than they anticipated and notably further away from our final third.

When we have them deep we have more to work with, we can plug at them and tactically foul in areas that will prevent them from playing with any flow, breaking up the game.

If we manage to win the ball we must immediately look to counter and hit the opposition hard. Ghoulam can come up to support the play and provide the width. The front 4 burst forward.

Subs:
IF WINNING: 70th minute – (4-2-3-1)
- Gundogan > Eriksen
- Martial > Sanchez
Gundogan look to sit deep and work in a mf three, making sure we're dictating the game. Martial look to make himself an outlet and attack down this left hand side.

IF DRAW: 70th minute – (4-2-2-2)
- Werner > Eriksen
- Mendy > Ghoulam
- Mertens > Lewandowski (77th minute)
Werner comes on to partner Lewandowski , working the channels and using his speed to get in behind. Mendy look to support Sanchez on the left. Mertens on too, clinical.

IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- Werner > Eriksen
- Martial > Sanchez
- Mertens > Lewandowski
3 changes, freshen things up. very direct.
Get the ball into the box and look for an equalizer.

C - Lewandowski
FK's - A.Sanchez
Corners - Eriksen/Sanchez
Pens - Lewandowski

Brighton v STOKE CITY

Line Up:

Rico
Passlack Diop Gnagnon Jorge
Cyprien Diawara Jankto
Gelson Rashford Lemar

Substitutes: Dragowski; Elvedi; Chilwell; Lopez; Coman; Torres; Boschilia

Captain: Rico
Penalties: Rashford
Corners: Lemar
Free Kicks: Lemar

Game Plan:

The key to our defensive structure will be the organised press, designed to suffocate the opposition's build up play and starve service to the forward line. We will try to recover possession immediately by applying pressure to the opponent in question high up the pitch. This pressure is ball-oriented, meaning our players shift their position relative to the location of the ball. This entails pressuring the ball-player, as well as cutting off his immediate passing options and any other potential passing lanes. Rather than focusing on the movement of individual players, we concentrate on the ball-player and his options.

If they are in a more established stage of the defensive phase, however, we will take up a slightly less assertive stance. The wingers fan out so the defensive shape is more of a 4-5-1, and individual players then take it in turns to join Rashford in pressuring the opposition. If the ball is on the left inside channel, Jankto will step out of the midfield line to apply pressure. This is most often used against sides with strong build-up play. However, even here, the focus continues to remain on the collective defensive positioning while using the ball as a trigger for any changes in shape.

The defence must move to where the ball is, not the position of the opponents. Balance is also fundamental, as if one full-back goes on the attack, the other one has to stay close to the centre-backs.

In order to avoid space opening up between the lines, this ball-oriented movement is something that must be carried out by the entire team, rather than just the attackers and midfielders. In this vein, we will play with a high defensive line which is integral to them in supporting this particular aspect of the team’s play.

When the opposition have the ball on one wing, the ball-near full-back will move up, while the other one will form a fairly compact three-man, one-line cover with the centre-backs. This move is done to scrutinise the opponent’s ball-player while maintaining good zonal coverage for passes or movements infield.

Our back four hold a high defensive line, often on or around the halfway line, depending on who has the ball and where the ball is within the opposition’s half. The primary reason for this positioning is to support the team’s high pressing scheme. Were the defensive line to play slightly deeper, this would leave a sizeable gap to the midfield line. This vertically incompact setup would then offer space between the lines for the opposition to exploit.

In holding a high line, the defence is able to support the high press of the attacking players, ensuring more comprehensive coverage. Should the opponent look to bypass the initial press with a ball over the top into midfield, our defensive line is in position to recover the loose ball or compress space for the opposition ball receiver, making the opponent’s possession less stable. Diop, in particular, will play an important role in this set up by being the physical centre back tasked with fighting the opposition centre forward, allowing Gnagnon room to sweep in behind, with the fullbacks and the keeper in cover.


Early build-up play is integral to our possession game. Instead of giving the ball to the deep-lying midfielder to then progress it immediately forward, the ball often circulates, with play often moving back to the central defensive and fullbacks. This circulation is done deliberately in an attempt to destabilise the opposition by undercutting their defensive shape and creating opportunities to move the ball into more dangerous areas or situations by drawing the opposition out of their defence.

Triangles are prominent within the team. Every player on the pitch is comfortable on the ball, this allows us to adopt a quick passing sequence that often results in a chance being created. As soon as the ball crosses over into the opposition's half, the movement of the midfield three and the attacking trio changes as the striker and the left winger will often come short to link up with the midfielders.

The intent here is to create an overload scenario when we move forwards with the ball. Rather than dropping into the defence like many DMs do in this formation, Diawara is integral to the team's passing ability in the middle and final thirds of the pitch. This, emboldened by the advancement of the full backs into wide midfield positions gives us strength in numbers to play the ball around the opposition's formation. The opposition is then left with two choices: they can either press and leave themselves open to quick movement and passes that dissect their midfield and defence, or they can sit back and refuse to press the line, allowing our centre backs to carry the ball further forward and for us to dictate play and look for openings at our own leisure.

The ball control and passing ability of our midfield is matched only by their intensity and work rate. Cyprien, in particular, will be key to our attacking build up as his dribbling skills and propensity to drive forward with the ball will create space for Jankto and Diawara to dictate the tempo. Cyprien's runs on the right hand side will also free Gelson Martins to get in behind the defence - accompanied by Passlack's passing ability on the right flank - and will also facilitate in Tottenham's shifting to our right, which will give Lemar space to get into creative positions and unlock their defence.

Our MO during the game is to move constantly. More importantly, we will, also, often operate in the space between the lines. This set-up will allow us to take advantage of the blindside of our opponent’s players. The opponents will always face our player’s movements and have to make decisions on whether to defend/chase/tackle a player or not at a frequency more than they used to. The end result is that the opponent often loses the defensive shape they prefer.


Substitutions:

70 minutes: Coman for Gelson Martins - Almost like for like, Coman comes on as a supremely fast wing forward, whose attacking intentions will be a cause of concern.

75 minutes: Boschilia for Rashford - While not typically a striker, the Brazilian possesses the same qualities that make Rahford such a danger up front. His pace and his knowledge of Lemar's game will likely see him perform well in this task.

80 minutes: Torres for Jankto - Torres will come on in the later stages of the game to provide incisive passing that, against a tired midfield, will lead to more opportunities late on.

—————————Courtois
———Azpilicueta—Lindelof—Umtiti
Conti————————————————Pereira
————Fabinho—Tielemans—Guerreiro
——————Icardi———Dybala

Subs: Begovic, Grimaldo, Gagliardini, Milinkovic-Savic, Ferreira-Carrasco, Philipp, Batshuayi

Captain: Cesar Azpilicueta
Free Kicks: Fabinho/Youri Tielemans
Penalties: Mauro Icardi
Corners: Youri Tielemans

Defensively, we focus our attention on defending the ball rather than player movement, in order to shut down passing lanes and pressure the man on the ball. We must disrupt the opponents possession as soon as they’ve got the ball, pressing with the man closest to the ball and forcing them backwards, allowing us time to set up in a compact 5-3-2. We aim to keep constant pressure on the ball, so that when they are building from the back, Icardi and Dybala are working in tangent, one closing the man on the ball right down and the other cutting the passing lane out to the other CB. When the opposition CBs split wide, the CM on the side of the ball will put extra pressure on, forcing the play wide, knowing we have the numbers in the middle, with two remaining CMs and our own wide CBs able to step in to the half spaces and be very tight to the midfield. Whenever we defend the ball from further infield we drop into a 5-3-2 and we use the forwards to hurry the CBs, whilst we keep our shape with the other 8 players, two compact lines, no passing lanes open but to the wider areas.

We defend the ball in three separate zones, middle and the two flanks, to overcome our numerical disadvantage in wide areas, using triangulation in the latter stages of defending. The wide CB on the side of build up becomes a FB as the defence shuffles along to make a back 4, making the opposite WB a FB as he tucks in. By doing this we have two players to engage the ball, the WB as the press initiator and the FB closing off the space for an overlapping run. The Cm on the side of play will then narrow to play, positioning himself in the half space, which effectively creates a triangle to press the ball. The two remaining CMs can then create another triangle with the wide CM, Tielemans in this phase looking to be at its head with the opposite wide CM forming its base, tight to each other. Dybala drops back into midfield as an extra man, mainly looking to cut out any switch of play. Defending in this manner means we have a triangle to defend the wide area and one to defeend the midfield, we can quickly close the ball down at all times, whilst we have 3 remaining defenders as a last line, keeping a high line to the midfield and insuring there is no space.

On the ball we look to beat the opposition press in early build up phase with lots of diagonal passing lanes and vertical movements. Our wide CBs will split and our WBs will push higher up the field, with Lindeloff dropping back in order to create diagonal lanes between the 5 players, all 5 of them excellent passers, able to move the ball faster than the opposition press and able to change shape, so that if Lindeloff steps forward, the two wider CBs can drop back and thus we can distort the opposition’s first line of press. Tielemans acts as our regista today in build up, looking to position himself between first and second lines of the opposition press, forming diamonds with the 3 CBs or triangles with wide CB and WB, looking to be the instigator of all moves. His positioning should pull the opposition midfield forward and inwards and open up lanes to the WBs or for diagonal runs of our wide CMs, or make the first line of defence drop deeper, and allow the CBs more time to pick their passes forward. Overload passes in build up to distort Portmsouth’s press.

Further into the attack we continue to require lots of vertical and diagonal movements, playing between the opposition lines so they are facing our play and allowing us to get into the blind sides. Gueirrero and Fabinho are key to this, both at home in midfield and out wide, allowing for flexibility in formation between a 3-4-3 (central focus) in attack or a 3-1-3-3 (wide focus). They will change their runs between diagonal and vertical, so that if we have beaten the initial press in a wide area and we can get the wide CM on the side of play to make diagonal runs into the opposition midfield’s blind side, where they can then combine with the WB to quickly double up on the FB to get behind Portmouth’s backline, or if we beat the press in the middle we use vertical runs in which one wide CM can tuck in and allow a forward to drop into the half space, and the other wide CM himself moves into the other half space. The wide CMs movement will be coupled with constant width from the WBs, both of whom love to get forward and attack crosses or deliver them themselves, and by the CFs who work on a tangent, so when one drops deep, usually Dybala, the other goes in behind, which forces the two CBs away from each other and again creates more room for the runs of our CMs as well as out to in runs by our WBs, Conti especially. Constant movement from these duos, creates different formations that the opposition must react to, which disrupts their favoured defensive set up. Tielemans as the regista remains key, he will be the second passer at all times, keeping up with play and collecting passes from the wide CMs who have found space and will use him as the next pass so another player can make a move away from the oppositions attention, with Tielemans having the full array of passing to find them. The CBs will keep in contact with this play too, the wide CBs able to step forward into midfield to create these passing overloads, whilst Lindeloff can use his longer passing from deeper.

Subs:

If Winning: Gagliardini for Tielemans 70’, bigger CM in to over power Portsmouth and keep their CMs from getting into dangerous positions between the lines. Milinkovic-Savic for Guerreiro 80’, another big powerful CM coming on to break play up. Batshuayi for Icardi 85’, stronger hold up play.

If Drawing: Grimaldo for Pereira 70’, bit more of attacking intent down the left. Batshuayi for Icardi 75’, fresh goal poacher on. Carrasco for Conti 80’, up against a tiring WB, get him on the back foot with direct running.

If Losing: Milinkovic-Savic and Carrasco for Tielemans and Pereira 60, 3-4-3’, change the point of attack from overloads with the CMs into diagonal zones to Carrasco and Dybala in the half spaces, make their two wide CBs go man to man against the talent of Dybala and Carrasco, Guerreiro goes to LWB and he ad Conti push really high. Batshuayi for LIndeloff 75’, 4-2-4, WBs becoming FBs but keep pushing on, Dybala and Carrasco in a front 4 with two CFs.

euro supercup tactics

Comment deleted by Article Creator

European Super Cup:

------------------------ Ederson
--------- Varane ------ Javi.M ----- Laporte
Oxlade ------ Wanyama ---- Vidal ---------- Mendy
---------------------- A.Sanchez
----------- Lewandowski --- Werner -----------------

Subs: Meret, Tah, Ghoulam, Gundogan, Eriksen, De Bruyne, O.Dembele

3-4-1-2.
We go in with pace and power as we look to disrupt Leicester's possession based game, looking to win the ball higher up in dangerous areas and creating overloads within an instance.

As soon as they are in possession, we are in their faces. Our closest man to the ball pressing vigarously whilst we close down any passing lanes within distance.

Hurrying their play and forcing them to concede possesion throughout, allowing no time or space to pick a forward pass and only allowing them to play where we want them too so they can't hurt us.

Lewandowski, Werner and Sanchez press from the front, preventing them from playing out from the back. One pressurizing and occupying the CB's with the others closing down the passing lanes to the FB's.

A powerful block of 4 in the middle of the park that will slow their play right down, allowing our front 3 to come back and form a rigid, 4-5-1 behind the ball.

Wanyama and Vidal, a midfield pair that will provide plenty of energy and will work their socks off for the side to allow others around them to express themselves. They should look to stamp their authority with their work rate and power looking to take a grip on mf and shielding our defence, oppressing the opposition midfielders and covering every blade of grass out there.

Wing-backs and wingers (Sanchez & Werner) should interlink throughout, off the ball our wingers need to track back and help with defensive duties preventing overloads. Keep them wide and give them no space to work with.

Key is leaving no gaps or space to get in behind, working as a staunch unit so their quick attackers have to come deeper to get involved making their first point of contact with the ball much deeper than they anticipated and notably further away from our final third.

When we have them deep we have more to work with, we can plug at them and tactically foul in areas that will prevent them from playing with any flow, breaking up the game.

If we manage to win the ball we must immediately look to counter and hit the opposition hard. Wing-backs can come up to support the play and provide the width. The front 3 burst forward.

Attacking wise, we need to play a penetrative passing game, get them chasing shadows as we dictate the pace of the game.

Playing out is the norm for our three CB's at the back, very comfortable in possession, shift slightly wider allowing our wing-backs to push forward. At times collecting short from Ederson and getting their heads up, looking for movement from the attackers and attempting diagonal or long balls into feet, using Lewandowski as a target man to bypass their mf press.

Our wing-backs stay wide and in line with our midfielders, looking to provide the width and stretching the opposition. When our mf'ers are on the ball we need to give them as much passing options as possible, create lines and pass and move with the aim of getting it into our attackers pronto, overlap consistently on the flanks and work opportunities inside linking with Sanchez.

Wanyama sits deep just infront of the defence and makes himself available for a pass back. A passing outlet if we are being vigorously pressed whilst also allowing us to create space when working the ball around in triangles in mf. At times allowing Vidal to go on and make his trademark burst forwards and linking with our forwards.

Sanchez will be the link between mf and attack, roaming and linking the play. Getting his head down and driving at defenders with his acceleration, opening up the space for others. Coming out to the flanks and suppprting our wg-backs, playing quick 1-2's and going beyond.

Big man, little man up top. Lewandowski plays his natural game, occupy the CB’s, link with others and make himself an outlet. Werner plays off him and looks to run the channels, constantly look to make runs in behind and put pressure on their CB's, a constant thorn in their side with his excellent movement and will allow others more space.

Subs:
IF WINNING: 60th minute – (3-4-1-2)
- Gundogan > Vidal
- O.Dembele > Werner
Gundogan look to sit deep and pick his passes, ensure we are in control of possession. Dembele plays just in behind Lewa and Sanchez, looking to attack and create opportunities for the two.

IF DRAW: 60th minute – (3-4-3)
- O.Dembele > Werner
- De Bruyne > A.Sanchez
- Eriksen > Vidal (75th minute)
O.Dembele and De Bruyne in a three with Lewa. Attack the flanks and look to get the ball into the box. Eriksen on for Vidal, penetrate with his passes.

IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- O.Dembele > Laporte
- Gundogan > Wanyama
Dembele & Sanchez on the flanks with Lewa and Werner up top. All out Attack.

C - Lewandowski
FK's - Sanchez
Corners - Sanchez
Pens - Lewandowski

Balanced 4-3-3

Attacking at pace and defending in a rigid unit.

A slight change in midfield with Kante and Bakayoko partnering each other as the central defensive midfielders as we look to give our attacking players and fbs as much freedom as possible.

Attacking down the wings. Fbs both given license to attack with two strong defensive midfielders in front of the defence.

Bakayoko plays as the defensive midfielder. Kante next to him in a defensive role with freedom to press, sweeping accross the midfield. Asensio is the playmaker of the side, he'll be looking to link with our wide men and full backs, as we look to attack at pace.

Key to our game plan today, using our power to win the midfield battle and using our pace out wide. We want to get the ball to our front three quickly and support them. With the pace of our wide players and Costa's ability to bully central defenders their defence will have a torrid time.

Asensio will always be looking for space in between the opposition defence and attack while the wingers have creative freedom, to switch or come central. The full backs on both sides will be overlapping.

The midfield should never be flat. Create as many lines as possible to increase the options we have in possession, and to create gaps in the opposition. Our wide attackers, and the attacking fbs look to give us width and stretch the game.


----------------- M.Neuer
Valencia - Vallejo – S.Ramos - R.Sessegnon
----------- Bakayoko - Kante
----------------- M.Asensio
Douglas Costa --------------------- E.Hazard
---------------- Diego Costa

Subs. J.Pereira, Stones, Danilo.P, C.Alena, S.Gnabry, A.Silva

Key to our attack is quick attacking play. Varying our play and how we get the ball to our front 3 quickly. The cbs and Neuer, are all capable of playing accurate long balls, which we will use to mix up our play either direct to Costa or over the top out wide.

Defensive
Our first aim is to stop any quick breaks, the closest player pressing the player on the ball, the second closest pressing the nearest passing channel. If they do get passed this first line of defence, these two will be happy to foul and stop the play that way.

We look to press the opposition high up the pitch as soon as they look to play out to the midfield. We let their defenders have the ball, and get all our players behind the ball. Marking all options in midfield.

Costa blocking the pass to the cbs and the wingers in the space in front of the fbs, with the team as a unit pushing up behind them in a 4-2-3-1 formation. We narrow to the side the opposition are attacking.

Bakayoko looks to mark their central am. Kante presses the space, his position and athleticism almost make it as though we have 3 defensive midfielders. Asensio looks to pick up the most

We look to win the ball back and attack quickly. Get the ball to our front trio and exploit any gaps in their defence before they get back in.

Attack.

Get the ball to our wingers, get them attacking their fbs, and get balls into Costa in the box. Asensio the man always looking to link wtih the wingers and fbs. Bakayoko holding a defensive positiion, and Kante busy as ever being in the right place to keep things simple if need be.

In possession, the defence push up playing a normal line, wary of their pace on the attack. The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, collect the ball and spread it wide.

Get the ball forward and out wide. We want quick one twos in the opposition half. The fbs, Asensio and the wingers will always be looking for the killer ball. If it is not on, we are happy to keep possession, attacking down the wings.

Captain: Ramos

Subs.
After 70 minutes bring on Danilo Pereira for Kante. Fresh energy in midfield. Keep the temo high.

After 75 minutes bring on Alena for Asensio.

If losing after 80 minutes bring on Guedes for Bakayoko. Play in the hole.

If winning or drawing after 80 minutes bring on Gnabry for Douglas Costa. Fresh pace out wide.

Week 3 Tactics

ASTON VILLA 4-2-3-1 SPECIFIC

———————————— Oblak
Aurier — Rudiger — Boateng — Luis
————— Modric —— Matic
Robben ————— Fabregas ————— Reus
———————————— Benzema

SUBS: Chesney, Jones, Pedro, Xhaka, Bernardo, Mata, Marchisio

Captain: Marco Reus
Corners: Luka Modric
Crossing free-kicks: Cesc Fabregas
Shooting free-kicks: Cesc Fabregas
Penalties: Marco Reus


Jet has done a tremendous job over the summer in terms of transfers for Everton and I reckon he has the most improved eleven over the summer. This means that I will be showing him the full respect that he deserves and it will show with the line up that I've put out. It is up to us to dominate the ball and create the amount of chances needed to win the game by playing on the front foot. I reckon if I can gain control of the middle of the pitch I have a chance of blowing them off the park. His defenders individually are all in a class of their own but as a unit together I think there is a lot to be desired since the wing backs will leave plenty of gaps behind if they go forwards and they're playing a full back at centre half. Fabregas retains his place because I'll need him to unlock their defence, he's one of the best in the world at picking out passes just outside the box. All my front four players have goals in them. We need the win today to give us the momentum needed to help power us into the champions league places in the early stage of the season.

Defending

In terms of defending, it is important that we are aware of the threats posed by my team having the lions share of possession. Jet will want his team to play on the counter, and while I believe that my team will pin them back for most of the match there are still going to be windows of opportunity of them when they have a spell of possession and on the counter. His attack can be pace merchants on the counter which can present an immense danger if not careful. In our case it is important that we are always aware of the possibility of that counter. I consider striker and attacking midfielders the biggest threats, so when we are attacking in their third Matic will sit close to our centre halves making sure we are not too exposed. Especially if he plays Duracell bunny pace merchant Welbeck and pace merchant lacazette up front again. We will also have our full backs closely watching Dani Alves and Kolasinac, his wing backs will likely be back defending anyway but their pace will carry him forwards very quickly and they're better at attacking than defending. Once they show signs of counter attacking our full backs will fly back to stop them.

To win the ball back, we will sit off them mostly and only press them around our box. Giving them lots of time on the ball. I will expect everyone in the back six to be involved in that. Robben and reus will get up and down the pitch all match if they need to. If we happen to get pressured back into our own third we will stop the pressuring but go very compact instead, and only squeeze spaced out wide to prevent crosses being thrown in. We wait it out and attack again.

The block of four of Boateng Rudiger Matic and Modric will form a four man block around their striker(s) when out of possession. Modric and Matic will help cut the passing lanes to their forward line while Rudiger will mark their striker tightly with Boateng sweeping behind if he does get through. Fabregas will come back in the defending phase to help win the ball back with the two midfielders or receive the ball to launch a quick attack when they lose the ball. His trademark through balls from inside his own half will become useful here.

Set piece defending is man to man, his centre halves will need to be watched carefully by our centre halves.

Attacking

I expect that Everton will be sat back and steaming forwards when we're out of possession, which generally means that we'll need some knife through butter kind of passes to slice them open. Boateng is made for that role so we naturally recycle the ball to him if an attack breaks down, doing so is also a safety measure to not concede stupid possession in midfield when harried by their midfield Duracell bunnies. Boateng has the ability to pick passes and spray balls out onto the wings with ease.

Before we have to go back to use Alderweireld however, we have Modric in the middle to control the tempo of the match with his vision and precision of passes. We will have all kinds of movement around him from the likes of Robben Reus Fabregas and full backs to help keep possession. We will have Reus Fabregas Robben directly attacking their back three while Benzema will be enough of a handful for his defenders to deal with with his exceptional movement in and out of space. The idea is that Benzema will try and pull their back three out of shape and for Reus and Robben to drift into the gaps with Fabregas picking them out (https://youtu.be/UOI5sDZbvsI). The three forwards will also drag their players out of position so that Modric and Fabregas can be at their most effective. One full back may come forwards and overload on one side if the ball is on his side.

Benzema will be key for our attack, he'll create a lot of space, play with his back to goal and lay it off for the three, also allowing us to spread the threat of our team as he will bring everyone into play. His style will help create crucial gaps between Everton's defence and midfield for our other three attackers to exploit since Benzema will confuse their defensive line.

Subs

Winning
75 - We will need to lock the game down and close it off while giving the midfield some energy. We will bring on Marchisio for Fabregas and have him in midfield in a 4-3-3. This is so that Marchisio can drop into midfield to provide a more solid base for us.

75 - Robben's legs may tire towards the end of the game so we bring on Bernardo in his place to help chase down balls.

80 - Pedro for Reus, same reason as above.

Drawing/Losing
65 - Clearly we need to change it up a bit, therefore we take off Modric and bring on Mata and go 4-1-4-1 to provide a bigger threat on their goal.

75 - If we're still not winning, we bring on Marchisio for Matic so that our midfield can provide more ammunition for our forwards.

85 - Go all out, bringing Pedro on for Fabregas there's more chance of chances getting finished with Reus moving up front with Benzema and Pedro going to the left.

If we get into a winning position after any of the drawing/losing subs, we go 4-4-2 to make sure that we have two banks of four to effectively defend the lead, while playing on the counter attack.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

----------------------- Heaton -----------------------
Carvajal ---- Bonucci ---- Manolas ---- A.Sandro
------------- Busquets ----- S.Khedira -------------
Sterling --------------- Alli ---------------- Neymar
----------------------- Aguero ------------------------

Gudino, Henrichs, Samper, Ceballos, Pogba, Mbappe, Poulsen


In goal is Tom Heaton a reliable goalkeeper, a good shot stopper and a keeper that instills confidence in the back four, shouting instructions to his defenders. Out very 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.

Bonucci in beside Manolas, on this occassion Manolas will man mark the CF. Manolas is a very cultured defender who is quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, powerfully built so marking the CF should be no trouble wether he is quick (Vardy) or big and powerfuil(Benteke) as he has to man up to him, will keep him away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Bonucci alongside is fantastic in the air, so will mark any other players that come into our danger area, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger. A clever player who can intercept attacks very quickly before they begin and he does this with great effect and simply takes the ball away from attackers. He too can carry the ball out from defence but we must be careful and only do this when it is possible. His passing is too top class as he at times plays the simple ball, however his range is fantastic and can quite easily ping a 50 yards pass forward for the front line to chase or take down. Both go up for corners and are a huge threat.

Fullbacks Carvajal and Sandro, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Both are perfect for this, They will look to keep them away from shooting areas where is dangerous in any position. This is a vital clash in this game. They will be up against quality wingers so look to force him away from goal and backwards. I want them to attack when in no danger (one at a time, dont be left exposed)so time these runs perfectly. One sits back a bit and allowing the other to attack, this is keeping a 3 at the back at all times. Their marking abilities are sound, both have good positional sense and very quick, do not make rash desicions and will stay on their feet. When one goes the other stays as they look to make an extra man down the flank for our wingers to cut inside or play neat one twos to free the wingers up as there fullbacks get dragged out of position.

We have a very industrious pairing in the middle, Busquets to stop the AM getting the ball from midfield to the striker, he must be right on top of him looking to close him down at the quickest opportunity, let him dictate play and there striker will get plenty chances, we must not let this happen. So quick and into him, fairly and stop this! Busquets himself will look to dictate from deep as he picks up from the defence and looks to drive us forward with precision passing. Khedira will go v the second most advanced midfielder or anyone else that is around that area. Even tho Busquets has the man marking role Khedira covers much of the pitch, hassling and harassing anyone who has the ball, he doesn't give any one time on the ball as he moves side to side and forwards and back, this style pressurizes the opposition to pass erractically. Our deep lying pair will look to pass and move always look for the return pass. When we have the ball Khedira in particular will get us moving forward from the centre as he pushes up to bring our forwards into the game. When they have then close down the CM, he will look to ping the ball about so get to him before that opportunity arises. We have put Dele Alli in a No.10 role against there DM he must be strong, he is an all round fantastic midfielder,, however he will look to take the DM on one v one drag him about open up spaces for others to drive into, with the ball at feet look to play quick one twos with those around him so he makes the runs into the box looking for that return ball that will get him in on goal. If the ball is played to him with his back to goal hold it up, draw the foul from the DM, if it doesnt come then look to lay it off, look to play the slide pass into Aguero, he must support Aguero as best he can and the two must link up very well, very quickly, Alli is fantastic in front of goal, I think his record speaks for itself. All three are good all round midfielders, But Busquets i want to sit in the hole with the two either side when defending. I want our defence and midfield shutting down everything quickly, even if its high up the pitch, we don't give them time on the ball to get it to their dangerous front three.

Neymar and Sterling are known for their creativity, speed, and technical ability and are fearless, explosive attacking midfielders who can change the game with a turn of pace or a dribble. More importantly both scorers of wonderful and important goals. Both technically excellent in limited areas, fast explosive acceleration during the first ten yards. Which more often than not takes them passed defenders and allows them to get into dangerous areas. Always play with there heads up looking for the runs of others to get the ball into there feet. Sterling will look to drive down the line and keep it to the outside making them come to him, which will leave holes in the centre of the pitch hopefully he will get the ball into. When they have the ball look to stick close to fullbacks/wingbacks and stop them coming forward especially there fullbacks, Just track the fullbacks and use pace to get back and in around there faces to stop them becoming a threat. Always be looking for Alli inside as the four make an awesome quartet in behind Aguero and a scary proposition for there slowish back line.

Aguero will get plenty chances, hat trick last week so bang in form, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front four/five will be a threat today we must go for it and keep pace with the league leaders. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Neymar and Sterling, Alli will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side. But especially look for Alli as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.

Captain - Bonucci
Penalties - Neymar
Free kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers

Subs

Losing -
70 Mins - Yussuf Poulsen and Mbappe for Alli and Aguero (442) two fresh young strikers, Poulsen gives us a different option as we can throw the ball up to him for him to out muscle defenders and knock it down for those around him, Mbappe will be running around looking for space to get into for these knockdowns

80 Mins - Pogba for Sterling, Neymar up into a 3 man attack, Pogba into midfield to try and create for them , Poulsen centre with Mbappe/Neymar either side

Winning -
70 Mins - Ceballos for Alli and he will go and sit on the left of Busquets to shore things and and keep a foot on the ball

80 Mins - Henrichs for Neymar, tightens that left hand side up
85 Mins - Poulsen for Aguero, strong paly and keep hold of the ball

Drawing -
70 Mins - Pogba for Alli, Mbappe for Aguero, a bit different will look to get it into Mbappe