Chelsea v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Injuries: Baines, Mathieu, Pepe, Milner
(4-3-2-1)
Ter Stegen
Cancelo - Mustafi - Cahill - Digne
A.Herrera - Strootman - R.Sanches
D.Silva - Son
Higuain
Subs: Rulli, Smalling, Cuadrado, Kenedy, Lucas, Jese, Immobile
-----------------
A very tough game today, but we can get at this Chelsea side if we are very strict and stick to our gameplan, so I feel we can target them on the flanks and create chances for Higuain to finish.
Christmas comes early as we are playing a 4-3-2-1 today, Ter Stegen in goal, Cancelo, Mustafi, Cahill and Digne across the back four, Herrera, Strootman and Sanches marshal the midfield, with David Silva and Son the main support for Higuain upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting three points today. Chelsea are obviously strong and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
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.
Mustafi/Cahill - Cahill to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Mustafi 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 Mustafi to pick up the second striket and leave Strootman 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/Digne - Both of you to force the Chelsea 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 Silva/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/Sanches. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Herrera/Strootman/Sanches - Herrera playing the box to box role, assist Strootman in dealing with the Chelsea attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Strootman stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Strootman 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. Sanches will be the most attacking of the three, link the midfield to Silva, Son and Higuain, marauding forward when required but also able to drop back alongside Herrera and Strootman when we don't have the ball.
Silva/Son - Both playing as wide AM's, and both have the trickery to beat the Chelsea 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/Sanches, 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.
Higuain - you will be expected to occupy the Chelsea 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 Silva/Son on occasion.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Silva off, Cuadrado on. Switch to a more conventional 4-5-1, Cuadrado to RM, Son drops back to LM. Look to absorb pressure and hit Chelsea on the break.
If drawing: Strootman off, Lucas on. Change to 4-2-3-1, Herrera and Sanches in midfield, Lucas - Silva - Son behind Higuain upfront. Push for the winner.
If losing: Mustafi and Strootman off, Lucas and Immobile on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, Cancelo - Cahill - Digne, Herrera the playmaker, Lucas - D Silva - Sanches - Son behind Higuain - Immobile upfront. Push for goals.
------------------------- Ederson
---------- Varane ------ Javi.M ----- Laporte
Oxlade ------- Wanyama --- Vidal ----------- Ghoulam
------------------------ De Bruyne
-------------- Lewandowski -- Werner
Subs: Meret, Bellerin, Rabiot, Gundogan, Ousmane, A.Sanchez, Mertens
Important game, looking to keep up the good form and aim for those top spots.
Possession with purpose and urgency. plenty of link up play, width and movement, dragging their mfs and defenders out of position and penetrating in the final third.
Strong block of 4 in midfield, very physical.
Energy and high tempo throughout, quick on our feet and looking to win the ball back as quickly as possible.
We drop slightly deeper when Newcastle are on the ball looking to nullify the threat they pose with their pace. De Bruyne working with our duo in midfield to press the space.
Two strong goalscoring outlets that will have a right go at their defence, in fine form and allow us to mix up the way we play and go more direct.
3-4-3: Possession based:
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 trio 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.
Varane and Laporte should shift slightly wider when on the offense allowing our wing-backs to push up in a bank of 4 in mf.
Vidal and Wanyama, 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.
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, also prevent counter attacks.
Our AM De Bruyne will look to play inbetween the lines, roaming in the oppositions half and and looking to act as the link between midfield and attack. Pick up pockets of space and use his awareness to dictate the play, never afraid to play a key pass in behind to unlock their defence to find a player in space.
Defensively coming deeper and working alongside our mf duo in a 3, squeeze and don't allow any space or time in central areas, forcing them back and in tight spots.
Flanks will be key as we look to expose them in wide areas and create space in midfield.
Two powerful WG-backs in Oxlade and Ghoulam, need to hug the touchline and provide the width allowing us to stretch the opposition. Always on the move so we can can get them in behind and use them as outlets going forward when picking a pass.
Very possession orientated, comfortable playing quick 1-2's and accelerating into space, overlapping often and getting early deliveries into the box for our strikers to attack.
As well as scoring goals Lewandowski and Werner have a big role today, one often look to come deep and link with others, hold up play and take the CB with you, spinning beyond and opening up the space for our wingers and De Bruyne to run into.
When Newcastle are in possession we will initially look to press from front with our two strikers and then drop off deeper with men behind the ball if they bypass with a strong block of 4.
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.
The reason we want our front two to press is to force Newcastle to play long and concede possession, we feel they lack any sort of aerial presence in the side so are less likely to win contested duels.
If they advance we then form a rigid structure looking to press the space and dropping off with men behind the ball, only allowing them to play where we want them too, stifle the midfield and stop them from picking their passes into an attacker, Wanyama man-man their AM, looking to harass him and using his physical prowess to really put him off his game, Vidal and De Bruyne cutting off passing lanes.
Our wingbacks and wide CB's should interlink throughout, off the ball our wing-backs need to track back and help with defensive duties preventing overloads. Keep them wide and give them no space to work with.
Essentially a 3-5-2, 5 in mf working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wing-backs then drop off to mark the oppositions wingers and help our CB's to prevent any space being left in behind.
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. Ox & Ghoulam can come up to support the play and provide the width. The front 3 burst forward.
Subs:
IF WINNING: 70th minute – (3-5-2)
- Rabiot > De Bruyne
- Sanchez > Werner
Compact 3-5-2, Rabiot in a mf trio allowing Vidal a little more freedom to burst forward. Sanchez partners Lewa looking to drop deep often and drive, opening up space beyond.
IF DRAW: 70th minute – (3-4-3 - wide)
- Ousmane > De Bruyne
- Sanchez > Werner
- Rabiot > Wanyama (75th minute)
Get Sanchez and Ousmane on to stretch the game and attack tired legs/fb's. Rabiot dictate from deep.
IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- Ousmane > Laporte
- Sanchez > De Bruyne
- Bellerin > Ox
4-4-2, direct. long balls into the box and constantly looking for the two strikers.
Flood forward and look for an equalizer/winner.
C - Lewandowski
FK's - De Bruyne
Corners – De Bruyne
Pens - Lewandowski
Comment deleted by Article Creator
------------------------- De Gea -------------------------
Carvajal ----- Sanchez ----- Caldara ----- A.Sandro
-------------- S.Khedira ------ Busquets ---------------
Callejon ------------ Griezmann ------------- Neymar
----------------------- Kun Aguero ----------------------
Gudino, Danilo, Mensah, Pogba, Sterling, Pellegrini, Jesus
We want to play high tempo football, quick short passing only going long if we really need to. Use the width of the pitch, playing quick one-twos, neat triangles to get beyond the opposition. We will focus on the wide positions and use our fullbacks and wingers to great effect if they play 541 then push there wingbacks back and reduce the numbers they have high up the pitch, if they play 451 then always get in amongst them when they have the ball. Its all about possession football, keeping it, playing the quick passing amongst each other waiting for the opportunity to strike, wether that be out wide or through the middle
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.
Sanchez and Caldara at centre back, lstd will focus on them as our weakness but I don't think they are as they will be strong at the back, on this occassion Caldara will man mark the CF, Doesn't which of the 3 he faces he has come up against them before and I don't envisage any problems for him. He 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. He must show commitment and not be fearful of the strikers skills. When in possession he will look to pass the ball short to the fullbacks or the midfielders ahead of him. Sanchez 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 the striker 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 so more likely to just make the short passes to those around him. Both go up for corners and are a huge threat. The fullbacks and Khedira stay back
Carvajal and Sandro 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, a big game partnership, Busquets he Is there 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 Liverpool players back which also stops them becoming a threat, like said he is quick and direct and tricky on the ball. Spread the play, he is in a free No.10 role so at times may even find himself switching with Callejon or Neymar to break their defence up. Will at times also switch with Aguero, again this is to confuse there defence and get them out of position. He is also a very hard working fella so look to annoy there DM and make him hurry his passes or lose possession
Neymar and Callejon 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. Both will look to drive down the line and keep it to the outside making them come to them I want them playing like proper wingers spreading the play and essentially taking players out wide with them to leave gaps for our central two. Whip in dangerous crosses for others to attack, not always high balls as we don't really have a great deal of height in open play so llo to drive the ball in for the front two to nick in in front of slower defenders They both also loves to cut into have a pop at goal. When they have the ball look to stick close to fullbacks/wingbacks and stop them coming forward, track the fullbacks and use pace to get back and in around there faces to stop them becoming a threat. Always be looking for Griezmann inside as the four make an awesome quartet in behind Aguero and a scary proposition for there slowish back line both wingers are capable of moving centrally if Griezmann comes wide and support Aguero.
Aguero will get plenty chances, 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 Callejon and Neymar, Griezmann will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side. But especially look for Griezmann as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.
As lsdt will probably focus on our defence as our weak point then we will focus on his defence also,m not something I would normally do, but his defence imo isn't great and we have players who will attack in numbers and with constant pressure they will crumble and eventually fall to the talent we have in the final third.
Captain - Busquets
Penalties - Griezmann
Free kicks - Griezmann
Corners - Wingers
Subs:-
Losing -
70 Mins - Jesus for Callejon, Pogba for Khedira, more speed and energy down the right hand side, Pogba playing deep will look to open up the defence.
80 Mins - Mensah for Aguero - TFM will go to RCB with Sandro and Carvajal to midfield, Jesus, Griezmann & Neymar will make up our front three
Winning -
70 Mins - Pellegrini for Aguero, Griezmann up front with Pellegrini into LCM to make that extra man slightkly deeper as they look to bolster there attacking options
80 Mins - Danilo for Callejon, Jesus for Neymar, Griezmann goes to the left, he is hard working so will help out defensively as will Danilo, Jesus up front to run at everything
Drawing -
70 Mins - Pogba for Aguero, Jesus for Callejon, Pogba to No.10, Griezmann to RW and Jesus up front, change it around a bit
80 Mins - Danilo for Khedira, gives that extra energy in midfield for the final 10 mins
———————Courtois
——Lindelof——Umtiti——Upamecano
Conti—Tolisso—Partey—Savic—Guerreiro
————Belotti————Dybala
Subs: Begovic, Christensen, R.Pereira, Gagliardini, Philipp, Carrasco, Icardi
Captain: Thibaut Courtois
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala
Penalties: Paulo Dybala
Corners: Corentin Tolisso
3-6-1/3-4-3 looking to set pressing traps and have our WBs make the field as compact as possible. When defending the centre, we use a fake press, strikers occupy the half spaces, allowing their CBs to step forward but not pick passes into the forward lines instead leaving Busquets and the FBs as options. When Busquets gets the ball, the strikers squeeze tighter to him and Savic steps forward to make him feel even more crowded. At this stage the WBs will be narrow to play and the wide CBs will push up into the half spaces to make the centre of the pitch feel too crowded to pass through. Force Chelsea to use Khedira running to get them forward, our first trap. Tolisso and Partey will immediately push up on the CM going 2 v 1 with Savic and Dybala closing around him in a layered 2-2 to block his route to the side, the WBs and wide CBs forming a really tight, narrow block to cut out forward passing lanes to the forwards, give him no where to go and win the ball from him when he has vacated his defensive zone. The initial fake press allows us to keep a compact block initially and force a riskier ball progression from Chelsea which we can quickly suffocate thanks to staying compact at the start.
The second pressing trap is set when build up goes through the FBs. As soon as their deeper players show us their intention to use the FB our WB must be right up onto him, not allowing him to progress the ball vertically(the ball side CB pushing up onto the winger if they have wingers), with the ball side forward also coming across to press in a 2 v 1, squeeze the WB into the touchline. The wide CM and Partey then form the next layer of a 2-2 block to stop progression back into the centre in advanced areas, Tolisso and the far side WB narrowing the pitch by moving across to add depth. The spare forward will then start a run which will cover off Busquets as a passing option and create the pressing trap. The only easy pass for the FB will be back to the CB, as soon as he turns back to do this, we spring on them, both strikers immediately hunting the CB down, with the one marking Busquets using the momentum of his initial run to be quickest to him, arching his run to not allow progression to any other CB(s), and the striker who went to the FB now stopping the ball back to Busquets. The opposite side WB comes around to add depth to this press and not allow circulation to the opposite flank, with Savic and Tolisso both stepping up and keeping the opposition penned right in, not allowing Khedira or Busquests to get the CBs out of trouble, targeting the weak distribution skills we either force an error from which we can counter or we force a longer ball, with our CB line pushed up to cover this, all much bigger than Chelsea’s forwards which means its easy pickings.
If they force us deeper we become narrower and more compact, 5-diamond-1, WBs tight to the wide CBs so the wingers or any inside forwards are always doubled up on, Partey making sure no one can play between the lines, Umtiti man to man with CF, wide Cms plugging any wholes, so dealing with the FB if he tries to double up, or crowding midfield if they are attacking centrally. Dybala stays on Busquets at the head of the diamond.
Playing on the counter means transitioning very quickly. If we win it higher up from their FBs or CBs we flood men into the space behind and either side of the robbed player, Savic making it a front three when we attack and looking to get in behind when the defenders are distracted by our front two. Importantly, the ball side WB will always drop back in when the ball is won, let the three forwards occupy the space and instead use the opposite WB to burst forward and make it a front 4, running into the space vacated by them having to narrow to the other side of the pitch to avoid being overloaded when we win it back, and also insuring if they win it back quickly, there is no counter attack down the easy flank. Likewise if we win it off Khedira we take advantage of their defensive shape being broken, Savic and Tolisso can attack either side of Busquets, Dybala and Belotti up against the CBs and both WBs immediately on the attack. There isn’t too much to say for these counters, overloads will be crucial which means lightning transitions. When building from deeper we want the WBs as wide as possible, have them on the touchline and both pushed up higher in order to really stretch and distort the opposition press. Our CBs can be creators for us today, pouncing on scraps from midfield and using their good passing to start counters, whilst also using their ability to beat a man on the ball(the wide CBs), using their power to beat the small Chelsea forwards and open space up quickly. At times if the CBs can’t find a way out, Tolisso can drop into their line and overload the press, find space to use his distribution skills. At times mix things up and go longer, Belotti is a great target man, use him, especially if we can’t get out of our half or if Busquets is out of position defensively, bypassing their midfield. Plenty of diagonal switches, using Belotti in the half spaces or up against the FBs to bring the ball down, Dybala always close by and Savic and the WBs ready to run off the pair of them when the chance arises.
Subs:
If Winning: Gagliardini for Tolisso 70’, fresh legs in midfield. R.Pereira for Savic 75’, Guerreiro into midfield and a set of fresh legs at WB and someone who can make use of the flanks in counters if they take off their FBs. Philipp for Dybala 80’, comes on and we play a 5-diamond-1. Philipp’s job is to sit on Busquets and stop him controlling the game from deep.
If Drawing: Gagliardini for Tolisso 70’, fresh legs. R.Pereira for Guerreiro 75’, fresh impetus down the left. Icardi for Dybala 80’, go with two out and out Cbs, Icardi looking to run off Belotti to get in behind.
If Losing: Icardi and Carrasco for Lindelof and Savic 60’, 4-4-2 with Carrasco and Dybala drifting out to in to really put pressure on Chelsea. Gagliardini for Partey 70’, more creative influence in midfield to get the ball forward faster.
-------------------- F.Forster ---------------------
Walker --- Kompany --- van Dijk --- D.Sidibe
------------ Bakayoko --- M.Verratti -----------
M.Sabitzer -------- James --------- Leroy Sane
-------------------- R.Lukaku ---------------------
Carevic, Kolarov, Zagadou, Dembele, Hakan, Morata, B.Traore
A tough game v Newcastle, we look to take the game to them with fast free flowing football, looking to control the midfield and get our forwards plenty of opportunities. When we attack we attack with freedom, however when Newcastle have the ball we must be right in their faces, closing everything down very quickly, we cannot let them dictate today or we're fcked with the talent they have, we have talent, lots of it so lets use it!
In goal Forster, a super confident keeper, excellent shot stopper, who will close down strikers and reduce there shooting angels, look to spread the play from the back and release our wide men early.
Walker and Sidibe have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, one always staying back so we will have a back 3, they will bomb down the line supporting the wingers, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Lukaku. They look to play one twos with the attacking midfield 3 which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. van Dijk the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Kompany alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, bot hstrong defenders, dominate in the air and good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four nd let nothing through. Kompany and van Dijk up for corners, fullbacks and Bakayoko stay back.
Our midfield 3 have a bit of everything,Bakayoko the destroyer, Verratti the playmaker and James the link between midfield and attack. Bakayoko sits in a lot of the time just patrolling in fornt of the defence to allow Verratti more freedom on the ball, he snarls at the AM/SS of Newcastle and gives him no time whatso ever to dictate the play of Newcastle. Having him breaking up play and giving the ball to Verratti or James will allow us to break quickly. Vearrtti can certainly pick a pass, so with his head up he will be looking for runners ahead of him looking for the pass from behind that will get them in on goal., When in defence mode he will sit in beside Bakayoko and stop any other AM coming through. Close, quick passing or if he sees a runner in the distance maiking a run, a cheeky wee dink over the top., When James has the ball he must look to drive forward with the ball or get it wide to the wingers, he will pass and move into positions where he can make himself available for the return pass, he can even push out wide anr run beyond Sabitzer and Sane, which will give there fullbacks a dilemma of who to go with, thus hopefully freeing up space. More so when we push the ball right with Walker creating another dilemma for there fullback., Always looking for Lukaku, not always getting the ball to him but look for him to open up gaps with his movement and be prepared to pass to others as they sprint into the hole.
Sabitzer and Sane are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos, using James and Verrati to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drives passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of himself centrally. Sane will use his tricks and flicks and pace to get him where he wants to be, again using Verratti and James to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Lukaku so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.
When we defend however 2 lines of 4 with James just ahead, Sabitzer and Sane just tuck in a wee bit forcing them wide
Lukaku is in real form atm, a powerful, quick striker when given an opportunity he will score most times, very much a penalty box striker, but this is perfect as the opportunities for him will hopefully come thick and fast, can out jumo defenders, can out muscle defenders, turning them quickly and smacking a shot away, good with both feet and tremendous in the air, always look to leap early when crosses come in for him to attack.
Captain - van Dijk
Pens - Lukaku/Morata
Free Kicks - Verratti
Corners - Verratti
Subs -
Losing -
70 Mins - Morata for Sabitzer, James to the right 4-4-2
75 Mins - B.Traore & Zagadou for James and Sidibe, Traore up front to the right of Lukaku and Zagadou into a back 3 we will have to play quick possession football to get it to our front 3, or last ditch pump it long
Forster
Kompany - van Dijk - Zagadou
Walker - Bakayoko - M.Verratti - L.Sane
B.Traore - Lukaku - Morata
Winning -
70 Mins - Dembele for James and to CM, Bakayoko drop deeper in behind Dembele and Verratti and Morata for Lukaku
80 Mins - Kolarov for Sane, help out defensively, see it out hopefully
Drawing -
70 Mins - Hakan for James, Morata for Lukaku, a change up front hopefully fresh legs will do the trick
75 Mins - B.Traore for Sabitzer
Arsenal @ WWFC
Injuries:
Pablo Maffeo,Daniele Rugani, Jordan Pickford,Mario Mandzukic
………………………………………………..Buffon……………………………….
……………………………Marquinhos…..De Vrij…..Romagnoli…………
…………………………………………Matuidi………Neves…………….
Candreva……………………………………Hamsik………………………………Mboula
…………………………………Berardi…………………..Aubameyang………..
Subs: Scuffet, Rodriguez, Howedes, Lallana, Lo Celso, Benassi, Simeone
Away to the wolves, in what even in these early stages is a must win game for us, got our first win on the board last week and we have to build on that momentum.
Risky formation this week, but we want to over-load Wolves in their half and pin them in, put the game to bed.
Fast paced direct (long) passes, bypassing the midfield area and utilising our two wingers to really stretch the Wolves defence, this added to our front-two plus Hamsik as the #10 will force Wolves to play deeper, so even though they may have the numericals in midfield they can’t hammer home the advantage as we’re playing with a front-five.
When Wolves have possession in the early phases our front five push heavy, this should cut off any easy passes they’ll rely on to build an attack, forcing rushed passes or better still long one, pretty much gifting us the ball back – when we get it, back to the plan, look up pick the runner and find him in space.
Marquinhos and Romagnoli will be our wider CB’s – they’ll shuffle into the full-back area to track to the wingers when Wolves counter whilst they wait for Neves or Matuidi to get across and provide a “double-up”
De Vrij is the man to hold the centre and take out the focal point of Wolves attacks, stop him in whichever way is deemed necessary.
Neves will sit and spray the ball about, has a lovely way of spreading the play from what I’ve seen of him this season and with 5 willing runners in-front of him he should be well-up for this – Matuidi is alongside him and I’m taking the shackles off and letting him go box-to-box, great engine on him and he’ll thrive with that freedom.
Candreva at RW is a solid worker and he’ll track back when needed to help defence, nowt fancy about his play but he won’t let us down, tow-the-line beat his man and whip the balls in the box.
Mboula on the other flank is a trickier player, very fast though and he’ll look to come inside pulling Wolves’ RB with him, leaving more space out-wide.
Berardi and Auba will sit in the gaps between the Centre-halves but look to drift wide in the early stages, we want them taking defenders with so that allows a bigger gap through the middle for Hamsik to wonder into.
A bold attacking strategy but we have a strong enough defence and a potent enough attack to make this stick.
Subs
55 mins – Riccardo Rodriguez > Mboula – gives us the perfect balance now as he evens out Candreva on the other flank.
70 mins – Benassi > Neves – like for like change just fresh legs
80 mins – Lo Celso > Hamsik – like for like
Vs ARSENAL(FIXTURE 9)
————————Begovic
—Conti—Christensen—Umtiti—Guerreiro
—————Tolisso——Gaglairdini
Carrasco————Dybala————Philipp
—————————Icardi
Subs: Kamil Grabara(GK), Upamecano, R.Pereira, Bentacur, Milinkovic-Savic, Bruma, Bernardeschi
Captain: Mauro Icardi
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala
Corners: Corentin Tolisso
Penalties: Mauro Icardi
In builduo, Gagliardini will position himself behind the striker, between the first two lines of defence, in order to manipulate the press of the striker with his own movement. This is accompanied by a CB bringing the ball forward, looking to engage the press. Provoke the press by then playing the ball to the FB, who moves it back to the CB who will have dropped deeper after the pass, this allows us to draw them out. Tolisso and Dybala drop to provide the CB with an option, but if they are too tightly marked, they both stretch, dragging their markers wider, with Gagliardini doing the same, and we open up a lane to Icardi dropping to receive and hold the ball, or a lane to the half spaces with either winger able to come inside for a pass. Both CBs have great range in their passing to achieve this, whilst if the marking isn’t too tight, we can give it to Dybala/Tolisso to establish possession higher up. If they press in a 3-2-5, both CMs drop and align vertically with the CBs, with Dybala and the wingers dropping deeper infield to draw all their lines forward, whilst Icardi pushes up to detach the back line, then the CBs/DMs/GK go longer for the runs of the FBs behind their WBs.
In later phases of attack we place emphasis on the half spaces and creating overloads in these areas by forming diamonds through which we can pass quickly. The wide forwards will be the key to this, both at ease playing infield, they look to make the move infield to receive the ball between FB and DM with Dybala and Tolisso coming towards the build up to join them, Tolisso slightly deeper and Dybala further infield, creating this overload around the half space will draw Arsenal’s defence in towards the centre where we can use the abilities of Tolisso and Dybala to create openings, linking quickly as a trio with the winger, whilst the ball side FB will look to push right up the field, take advantage of Arsenal focusing on our central play. From here we open up a host of option, a ball to the FB who has space on the flank to either beat his man or whip a ball into the box, a pass to Icardi who can either drop in to provide a wall pass to get one of the attackers in behind, or play on the shoulder himself to receive a pass in behind, or we can use Icardi’s movement as a decoy and use the diamond instead to get in, Dybala and the wingers both excellent at getting into space between FB and CB and Tolisso able to pick the ball out. Alternatively if the route is blocked we switch the play to the open side, Tolisso and Gagliardini(positioned deeper to offer the out ball) can move the ball quickly across to where the opposite side winger will have entered the vacant half space where he has space to work in, from here he can either run between CB and FB to receive a through ball from our CMs, or he can act as a link, either playing the ball through for the striker, or out to the opposite FB who will be motoring down the open flank. If the half space occupation doesnt create the chances we need, our FBs can tuck infield alongside Gagliardini, these three act as a shield behind the attack but also allow us to overload midfield and keep the ball circulating, giving our 5 attackers the freedom to rotate position and use their movements to find space between the lines or in behind.
When the ball is lost we show intensity and urgency to get it back immediately. We are aided by our overloading of half spaces or the centre, meaning when we lose the ball we have 4 players around it to squeeze in on the man in possession and win it back, the closest man putting on the pressure and the other three blocking the vertical and two diagonal forward lanes, these 4 the hunters and using the rest as organisers to get behind the press, aided by having the line of three behind the attack when we are trying to overload the centre, or having the ball-far winger and FB tucked into the half space when we are overloading the opposite side, these two able to quickly squeeze the midfield options with Gagliardini and insure the opposition can’t play the ball out. The CBs will stay slightly deeper so if they try a first time longer ball for Auba, we have time to face him up and slow him down, rather than allowing him to run straight in behind us.
If our press is beaten we fall back into a low block. Form a box with DMs and CBs parallel to one and other its little space between the two lines making it impossible for their AM and CF to get involved, both wingers tightly marked by our FBs, and our wingers dropped back into midfield. Force them to commit a CM to the attack and into our DM/CB 2-2 box, once this happens, Tolisso will mark the DM so they can’t go back to him, but we will leave the CM open and instead prepare a pressing trap, winger ball side and CB on the opposite side ready to press him quickly from the front and back. We are able to narrow the FBs to the remaining CB when this trap is triggered, so that if they break it we still have a back 3 vs front 3 and Gagliardini as DM, so it is worth the risk to do this, as if we win the ball we face a back line with one CM out of position, DM occupied by Savic and 2 CFs on their CBs, with wingers bursting to join the attack.
Subs:
If Winning: Bentacur for Gagliardini 70’, fresh legs in midfield a more of a destroyer. Milinkovic-Savic for Icardi 75’, Dybala to CF in a 4-3-3, Savic will come on and break play up before it can develop. Pereira for Dybala 80’, Philipp to CF, Pereira offers extra protection down the left.
If Drawing: Bernardeschi for Philipp 70’, goes to the right side, Carrasco left. Milinkovic-Savic for Icardi 75’, Dybala up front, Savic behind, make use of his physicality, can aim longer for Savic to draw away Arsenal’s press and open up more space for Dybala and the wingers. Bruma for Carrasco 80’, extra pace and trickery on to attack tiring legs.
If Losing: Savic for Gagliardini 60’, 4-1-4-1, use Savic’s extra height and physicality to be more direct, draw markers away from the other attackers. Bernardeschi and Bruma for Conti and Philipp 70’, more direct attacking threat in Bruma to run at the RB as much as possible, whilst Bernardeschi and Carrasco down the right can be more interchangeable. When we attack, Guerreiro will tuck next to Tolisso and we become a 2-2-5-1, Bernardeschi and Bruma providing width, allowing Dybala and Carrasco to occupy the half spaces and Savic adds to the overloads.
Red Card:
GK = Grabara for Icardi, 4-4-1 with Dybala leading the line but dropping back when we defend, keep numbers back and wait for the chance to counter. Good luck to Grabara, Liverpool debut, make us proud.
FB = Pereira for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above tactically
CB = Upamecano for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above.
DM = Bentacur for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above.
Winger = Bernardeschi for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above, Carrasco also swaps sides if Philipp goes.
CF/AM = 4-4-1
----------------------Lloris
Clyne-----Hummels-----Godin-----Rose
-----------Casemiro------Keita
Suso-----------------Ozil--------------Mane
----------------------Suarez
Subs
Moreira, Koulibaly, Bertrand, Radja, Pjanic, Coutinho, Kane
Lloris is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will claim it without trouble, 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 possesion to stop counter attacks, Both CB"s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are so they are always aware. 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 2 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with Ozil 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 to make runs 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 wide man has the ball, the wideman 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 - Ozil takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out inbetween 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, Suso 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. Keita takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt and 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 - Pjanic for Ozil - 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 - Radja for Keita and Coutinho for Suso - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Pjanic for Casemiro - Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing



70 Mins - Koulibaly, Kane and Pjanic for Rose, Casemiro and Clyne - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers.
Attacking 4-3-3
At home and in good form, we play our usual game and take the game to Hull. Today we look to play more direct, with two players offering strong defensive cover to the defence, giving more attacking freedom to the fbs, Asensio and the front 3.
We look to stretch the game, play with width. Get the ball out wide to our wingers, Asensio looking to link with the fbs and wingers to create and get balls into the box. We have great pace and talent down the wings to open up Hull.
Tire the opposition out, let the ball do the work for us and have them chase us. We'll be patient. Possession starts at the back, cbs keeping it simple, but Ramos can go long if they push up. We play a high line, squeeze them in.
The cm trio are key, full of energy, with two players fantastic at winning the ball back we want them to offer protection to the team and give more freedom to our attacking players to get the most out of them. Kante and Xhaka we want to keep things simple in possession. Xhaka has freedom to hit a long shot, but otherwise we want them taking the ball from defence and spreading the play. Asensio plays with freedom in attack, finding space in between the opposition defence and midfield.
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 Hull defence. We let our attacking players have attacking freedom in the final third.
In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Hull. One fb bombing forward at a time.The other advanced but still offeringa deep option if we go back. In the final third the wingers have freedom to come inside, freedom to find space off the ball and to look for ball. Look to get away from their marker, central or wide wherever they can find space and get on the ball.
------------------- Schmeichel
Azpilicueta- S.Ramos – Otamendi - Marcelo
----------------- Kante --- Xhaka
--------------------- Asensio
D.Costa ------------------------------- Hazard
------------------- C.Ronaldo
Subs. Schmeichel, Blind, Ndidi, Alena, Vitolo, Correa, D.Costa
Key to our attack is quick attacking play. We are happy to play direct, get the ball wide, and get our fbs and wingers doubling up on the opposition.
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. Stop any attacks before they begin.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Draw them in to positions where they can’t hurt us, and then try and win the ball back. Then get forward quickly.
Always keep one fb more reserve and a dm patrolling in front of the cbs. We have a quick defence and energy and pace in midfield to stop quick breaks.
As Hull advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-2-3-1. Our wingers will track any forward runs made by their fbs, and Kante presses the space in front of our cbs, look to stop their AM having any space and taking him out the game. Xhaka sits in the zonal area next to him on goalside, always looking to cover.
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. Asensio picks up the most advanced cm. The winger opposite play comes inside and sits on their deepest cm while Xhaka presses the space next to Kante.
In this formation push them backwards and wide away from danger. Force them to take risks.
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 linking up with quick passing, getting the ball to our wingers and get balls into Ronaldo. The trio's movement will be key in opening up the opposition defence.
Kante and Xhaka seeking to collect the ball from defence and spread the play wide and to Asensio. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game.
We are happy to go direct to our wingers. Get them working with the supporting fb and Asensio to get in behind the opposition defence.
Ronaldo has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals.
Subs.
If winning or drawing after 70 mins bring on Alena for D.Costa. Asensio goes right.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Vitolo for D.Costa. Fresh pace and energy.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Correa for Ronaldo. Super sub on.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Correa for Xhaka. 4-2-2-2. Attack.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on D.Costa for Marcelo. 3-2-2-3. Gung ho.
If losing after 60 mins bring on A.Correa for Xhaka. 4-2-2-2. Super sub and hard working forward on.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Diego Costa for Douglas Costa. Correa to right wing.
If losing after 76 mins bring on Alena for Marcelo. 3-5-2. Azpi 3rd cb. More creative options.
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
------------------------- Ederson
---------- Varane ------ Javi.M ----- Laporte
Oxlade ------- Wanyama --- Vidal ----------- Mendy
----- Ousmane --- Lewandowski -- A.Sanchez
Subs: Meret, Juanfran, Tah, Rabiot, Eriksen, De Bruyne, Werner
Another important game, we need to win these if are going to mount a challenge. In very good form and top of the league thus far so we go again.
Possession with purpose and urgency. plenty of link up play, 1-2's and overlapping, width and movement, dragging their mfs and defenders out of position and penetrating in the final third.
Mixing it up at times and going long from the back, always quick on our feet and looking for areas to get in behind.
Defensively we drop deeper with men behind the ball when Villa are in possession. Allow their defenders to have the ball at the back but as soon as they move the ball into midfield we press.
Congesting the midfield and defensive areas and cutting out passing lanes which should essentially help in nullifying the threat of their key midfielders whilst preventing supply to their forwards.
We feel they lack pace in attack especially with Robben out, so with numbers back and with the mobile defenders we possess they will struggle for the most part to break us down.
When we win the ball deep we should look to transition quickly from defence to attack, hitting the front 3 and using our quick wingers to break.
3-4-3: Possession based:
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 trio 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.
Varane and Laporte should shift slightly wider when on the offense allowing our wing-backs to push up in a bank of 4 in mf.
Vidal and Wanyama, 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.
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, also prevent counter attacks.
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 two footed & excellent dribblers that more often than not will beat their man, need to get their heads down and accelerate with pace, linking with our wing-backs as they hug the touchline and open up the space ahead.
Always on the move and being unpredictable, never stay idle and easy to mark. Making off the ball runs and taking defenders with you, keeping them in two minds whether to stay or go.
When in possession, our wing-backs take it in turns to burst forward. One sits slightly 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 has a big role today, very prolific and great killer instinct but one of those strikers that influences the play even without the ball at his feet. He should look to come deep often and link with others, hold up play and take the CB with you, opening up the game and space for our wingers and Vidal to run into beyond.
When Aston Villa are in possession we will look to drop off with 10 men behind the ball looking to press the space. Allowing them the ball deep in their half with little danger to us.
We then exert pressure in midfield and defensive zones, looking to condense the size of the pitch and cutting out passing lanes.
Organisation is key. We look to 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. Wanyama man-man their AM, looking to harass him and using his physical prowess to really put him off his game, Vidal tracking runs off the ball.
Wing-backs 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 5-4-1, four in mf working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wing-backs push back to help our wide CB's to prevent any space being left in behind.
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. Ox & Mendy can come up to support the play and provide the width. The front 3 burst forward.
Subs:
IF WINNING: 70th minute – (3-5-2)
- Eriksen > Ousmane
- Werner > Sanchez
- Rabiot > Vidal (75th minute)
Compact 3-5-2, Eriksen forms a trio in midfield and dictates from deep. Lewa and Werner partner in attack, clinical. Rabiot on 76th min.
IF DRAW: 70th minute – (3-4-1-2 - wide)
- De Bruyne > Ousmane
- Rabiot > Wanyama
- Werner > Sanchez (82nd minute)
Rabiot use his fresh energy to get about in midfield, De Bruyne plays in behind Lewa and Sanchez looking to use his creative spark to find them in space. Werner on 82nd min.
- IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- Juanfran > Ox
- Werner > Laporte
- De Bruyne > Vidal
4-4-2, direct. long balls into the box and constantly looking for the two strikers.
Flood forward and look for an equalizer/winner.
C - Lewandowski
FK's - A.Sanchez
Corners – Sanchez
Pens - Lewandowski
---------------------------Horn
Toljan----------Süle-----------Kempf------Plattenhardt
------------------Geis-----------Dahoud
--------Schöpf----------Ziyech-------------Pjaca
-----------------------Ibrahimovic
Subs:Hennessey, Klostermann, de Jong, Suárez, Forsberg, Milik, 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 Johannes Geis and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Geis 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 Geis 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, Johannes Geis.
A holding midfielder through and through, Geis 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 Geis such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Alessandro Schöpf, Hakim Ziyech and Marko Pjaca as our band of three attacking midfielders with Zlatan Ibrahimovic 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 Geis or Dahoud, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Toljan and Plattenhardt can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Geis and Dahoud can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Alessandro Schöpf and Marko Pjaca, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Hakim Ziyech our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Ziyech 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 Pjaca, Schöpf or Ibrahimovic in via fast passing combinations.
Ibrahimovic is a formidable centre forward and he possesses 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
Milik on for Ibrahimovic and Forsberg on for Pjaca
BRUM VS Brighton
---------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
-------------Bailly-------------Maguire---------Verthonghen-------------
-----------------------------------Carvalho----------------------------------------
Hysaj-----------Brozovic----------------Kessie--------------M Alonso
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------Vardy----------Keita--------------------------------
Subs - Coleman, Ake, Sanson, Calvert Lewin, Allan, Mario, Llorente
CAPTAIN - VERT
CK'S - BROZOVIC
FK'S - ALONSO
PENALTIES - VARDY
Up against a depleted Brighton side who will be without key players in defence David Luiz and Zouma. Defend high up and try and win the ball back quickly as possible.
When we win possession of the ball I want the players to play the long ball to Vardy/Keita, so they can use their pace to play off the oppo's shoulders and beat the offside trap. When defending, I want Carvalho to help our wingbacks against the Brighton wingers. Whenever they are 1 vs 1 with our wingbacks I want Carvalho to double up on them. Kessie and Brozovic will look to keep things ticking over in the middle and will look to play quick passes forward and to look for through balls for Keita and Vardy to run to.
Defence
I got a top class keeper in goal so he will be hard to beat. Comnand your area. The defence is well balanced, with all 3 CB's playing in the top flight regularly irl. Verthonghen and Bailly have the pace to play the 3atb formation with ease. Maguire 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. Watch out for oppo wingers and stop them cutting in onto their stronger foot.
Defence Mid
William Carvalho
Carvalho will be on 100% defensive mode. No attacking whatsoever. When the oppo wingers have the ball he will help our wingbacks against them and double up against them. He's a strong lad and as soon as he wins the ball back he will pass it to the more technical players.
Centre Mids
Brozovic + Kessie
Kessie main job is to use his strength and physical ability in the centre. When the oppo AM has the ball close him down asap but when we have the ball make runs forward. Brozovic will play a b2b role. Brozovic has the ability to pick out a pass while Kessie is an engine which can run all day long. They complement each other perfectly. Both have a deadly shot from long range so they won't be afraid to shoot given the opportunity. When defending, one of you will press the oppo CM to try and get the ball off them and regain possession, preferably Kessie as he has more strength and can use his huge body to shrug away the challenges.
Wing backs
Hysaj + Alonso
Hysaj 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 Keita are very good at playing in between the lines.
Strikers
Keita + Vardy
I want Keita and Vardy to use their pace to play off the oppo shoulders and beat the offside trap. They will look to close down the oppo asap when they have the ball but only 1 player will press at a time. Keita will be given freedom to drift over to the left wing and use his pace to target the Brighton RB from time to time.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Change formation to 343. Bring on Calvert Lewin for Alonso and Mario for Hysaj. Llorente on for Carvalho aswell. Play a very high line and try and get a goal.
-------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
------------Bailly------------Maguire---------Verthonghen--------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mario------------Kessie--------Brozovic--------------Calvert Lewin
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------Vardy-------Llorente-------Keita-----------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take off Vardy and put on Allan in CM. Change formation to 361 ultra defensive with the defensive line getting even deeper.
-------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
---------------Bailly-------Maguire---------Verthonghen--------------
Hysaj-----------------------Carvalho---------------------------------Alonso
-----------------Brozovic------Allan---------Kessie--------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------Keita------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Llorente ON for Keita, use him as a target man so he can use aerial abillity to win headers.
Allan ON for Brozovic
Mario ON for Hysaj
Like for like changes just fresh legs to help the team.
IF WE GET A RED CARD
-If my GK gets sent off yolo swag it and put Carvalho in net.
-If one of my back 3 CB's get sent off change formation to a 4atb and play Hysaj and Alonso as fullbacks.
-If one of my CM's get sent off take off Keita and put on Allan in CM to replace the sent off player.
ASTON VILLA
Oblak
Sokratis Alderweireld Boateng
Aurier Modric Marchisio N’Zonzi Luis
Benzema Cavani
SUBS: Chesney, Matic, Fabregas, Mkhitaryan, Zielinski, Bentaleb, Reus
In defence we play Sokratis Alderweireld and Boateng today. Alderweireld will play on the centre and act as the playmaker in chief. He will position himself to receive from the keeper and defenders and is often the free-man. He will have more time on the ball to play vertically to the forwards. Sokratis and Boateng will position well during the build up and stretch as wide as possible to give opposition more horizontal ground to cover in their pressing. We expect the nullify Portsmouth’s pressing on our back line this way. Aurier and Luis will run up and down the sides and play their natural games, displaying their great defensive and offensive abilities.
Marchisio will position himself deep in midfield to press the opposition and control the deeper areas in midfield. He will be supported by Modric and N’Zonzi on his sides. Modric provides the guile and will link with the final third, and play his natural game in controlling the tempo of the match. N’Zonzi will provide the legs dragging the team forwards when attacking and pulling the team backwards when defending, and more importantly to deny any space to KDB.
In attack I will pair Benzema and Cavani together with Benzema the deeper player, playing his natural game to link midfield and striker together. Benzema's role is very crucial to how we play as we need his movements to disrupt the flow of Portsmouth’s game plan, and most importantly his goal scoring instincts.
I expect Portsmouth to be very compact, and therefore we will move the ball to try and move the opposition, to create any sort of disorganisation. The point of our build up at the back is to invite pressure. By moving the ball in deeper areas sideways with the centre backs as wide as possible, we should trigger Portsmouth’s press. We will use the ball as a 'carrot'. We will move the ball from right to left and back to the right after Portsmouth collectively shifting to that side, allowing us to attack their un-loaded area.
Each player has their own important roles to play. Marchisio as the deep midfielder is important in the first build up phase either directly by moving the ball from the back or indirectly by occupying markers and opening up passing lanes for the centre halves. This should allow our back line to have time to move the ball into the forward areas. Boateng and Sokratis should have a lot of space to move forward to and provide good diagonal angles for Alderweireld to pass to. Modric and N'Zonzi won't contribute much in this phase, their aim is to create space and not receive the ball from the centre halves. They will spread out to the wide areas to occupy the flanks and half spaces leaving a lot of space centrally. This is so we can pull their defences into wider areas create space centrally for Benzema and Cavani to drop in the lines to receive.
N'Zonzi will need good off the ball movement today, whether running directly with the ball or indirectly he will need to open up spaces for his teammates and himself. Wing backs are normally bypassed in the buildup and will be high up the pitch to pin back their wingbacks to help create space in deeper areas for better circulation of the ball. Modric will be like a 'half-wing' and because he is press resistant he is very hard to dispossess. His starting position will be aggressive and mainly occupy the last third. We will use overloads and combinations in half spaces and on the flanks to maintain possession. It is crucial that the ball carrier has many angles and options for a pass in Portsmouth's confined area.
The main way we defend is by controlling the centre of the pitch and pressing at the right moments. Pressing starts with the forwards with their aggressive movements and moving horizontally to press their centre halves. As the forwards press, the rest of the team moves up the pitch to restrict space to reduce time and space they have. A team with poor spacing and players who can't build up under pressure will be forced to play aimless long balls that my defenders will recover easily. Defending is all about controlling space and our players will move together in a compact block in pressing. We can switch to a 4-5-1 if Portsmouth decide they want to attack down our sides during their spell of dominance
Sokratis Alderweireld Boateng Luis
Aurier Modric Marchisio N'Zonzi Cavani
Benzema
Or
Aurier sokratis Alderweireld Boateng
Cavani Modric Marchisio N'Zonzi Luis
Benzema
and immediately switch back to a 3-5-2 after possession is regained. By dropping into a back four at times allows us defensive stability defending the wide areas so we don't suffer from an overload. The ball-near wingback pushes high to press the ball while the far side wingback drops into the backline to make it a back four, allowing our midfield to maintain central positions and control the middle. Off the ball our defenders will be very man-orientated on Portsmouth's forwards. Alderweireld can press very high during Portsmouth's build up following their striker’s movements, for example.
We may also employ pressing traps depending on how Portsmouth play, we will lure them into a gap on the sides as we pack the centre so that we can press them, forcing them to either circulate the ball back (which by that time one of our forwards would have sprinted to cut off his closest passing lane) or we regain possession.
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 Matic for Marchisio.
75 - Modric's legs may tire towards the end of the game so we bring on Fabregas in his place, and maybe pick out passes.
80 - Reus 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 Mkhitaryan.
75 - If we're still not winning, we bring on Reus for sokratis, go 4-4-2:
Aurier Alderweireld Boateng Luis
Mkhitaryan N'Zonzi Modric Reus
Benzema Cavani
85 - Fabregas for Modric, Fabregas knows how to pick a pass and can finish.
If we get into a winning position after any of the drawing/losing subs, we stick with 4-4-2 to make sure that we have two banks of four to effectively defend the lead, while playing on the counter attack.
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v Arsenal
Injuries: Cancelo, Drinkwater, Jorginho, Celina
Ter Stegen
Mustafi - Pepe - Cahill
Trippier - A Herrera - Strootman - Digne
D Silva - R Sanches
Higuain
Subs: Rulli, Smalling, Milner, Son, Lucas, Jese, Immobile
-----------------
A tough but winnable game today at home to Arsenal, hopefully our back three will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 3-4-2-1 today, Ter Stegen in goal, Mustafi, Pepe and Cahill in the back three, Trippier and Digne as wingbacks, Herrera and Strootman anchoring the midfield, with David Silva and Renato Sanches in attacking midfield roles off of Higuain upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting three points today. Arsenal are strong and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
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.
Mustafi/Cahill/Pepe - Cahill and Mustafi to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Pepe to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Two of you go forward for setpieces.
Trippier/Digne - Both of you to force the Arsenal 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 five with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Silva/Sanches 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/Strootman. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Herrera/Strootman - Herrera playing the box to box role, assist Strootman in dealing with the Arsenal attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Strootman stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Strootman to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Herrera to burst forward to join the front three on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others.
Silva/Sanches - Both playing as wide AM's, and both have the trickery to beat the Arsenal 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/Strootman, and capitalise on the space Higuain's presence will create for you.
Higuain - you will be expected to occupy the Arsenal 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 Silva/Sanches on occasion.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Silva off, Milner on. Switch to a 5-3-1-1 diamond, wingbacks drop to fullback, Milner joins Herrera and Strootman in front of them, with Sanches behind Higuain. Absorb the Arsenal pressure and hit them on the break.
If drawing: Strootman and Mustafi off, Lucas and Son on. Change to 4-2-3-1, Tripper - Pepe - Cahill - Digne at the back, Herrera and Sanches in midfield, Lucas - Silva - Son behind Higuain upfront. Push for the winner.
If losing: Mustafi, Pepe and Strootman off, Lucas, Son and Immobile on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, Cancelo - Cahill - Digne, Herrera the playmaker, Lucas - D Silva - Sanches - Son behind Higuain - Immobile upfront. Push for goals.
Vs ARSENAL(FIXTURE 9)
————————Begovic
—Conti—Christensen—Umtiti—Guerreiro
—————Tolisso——Gaglairdini
Carrasco————Dybala————Philipp
—————————Icardi
Subs: Kamil Grabara(GK), Upamecano, R.Pereira, Bentacur, Milinkovic-Savic, Bruma, Bernardeschi
Captain: Mauro Icardi
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala
Corners: Corentin Tolisso
Penalties: Mauro Icardi
In builduo, Gagliardini will position himself behind the striker, between the first two lines of defence, in order to manipulate the press of the striker with his own movement. This is accompanied by a CB bringing the ball forward, looking to engage the press. Provoke the press by then playing the ball to the FB, who moves it back to the CB who will have dropped deeper after the pass, this allows us to draw them out. Tolisso and Dybala drop to provide the CB with an option, but if they are too tightly marked, they both stretch, dragging their markers wider, with Gagliardini doing the same, and we open up a lane to Icardi dropping to receive and hold the ball, or a lane to the half spaces with either winger able to come inside for a pass. Both CBs have great range in their passing to achieve this, whilst if the marking isn’t too tight, we can give it to Dybala/Tolisso to establish possession higher up. If they press in a 3-2-5, both CMs drop and align vertically with the CBs, with Dybala and the wingers dropping deeper infield to draw all their lines forward, whilst Icardi pushes up to detach the back line, then the CBs/DMs/GK go longer for the runs of the FBs behind their WBs.
In later phases of attack we place emphasis on the half spaces and creating overloads in these areas by forming diamonds through which we can pass quickly. The wide forwards will be the key to this, both at ease playing infield, they look to make the move infield to receive the ball between FB and DM with Dybala and Tolisso coming towards the build up to join them, Tolisso slightly deeper and Dybala further infield, creating this overload around the half space will draw Arsenal’s defence in towards the centre where we can use the abilities of Tolisso and Dybala to create openings, linking quickly as a trio with the winger, whilst the ball side FB will look to push right up the field, take advantage of Arsenal focusing on our central play. From here we open up a host of option, a ball to the FB who has space on the flank to either beat his man or whip a ball into the box, a pass to Icardi who can either drop in to provide a wall pass to get one of the attackers in behind, or play on the shoulder himself to receive a pass in behind, or we can use Icardi’s movement as a decoy and use the diamond instead to get in, Dybala and the wingers both excellent at getting into space between FB and CB and Tolisso able to pick the ball out. Alternatively if the route is blocked we switch the play to the open side, Tolisso and Gagliardini(positioned deeper to offer the out ball) can move the ball quickly across to where the opposite side winger will have entered the vacant half space where he has space to work in, from here he can either run between CB and FB to receive a through ball from our CMs, or he can act as a link, either playing the ball through for the striker, or out to the opposite FB who will be motoring down the open flank. If the half space occupation doesnt create the chances we need, our FBs can tuck infield alongside Gagliardini, these three act as a shield behind the attack but also allow us to overload midfield and keep the ball circulating, giving our 5 attackers the freedom to rotate position and use their movements to find space between the lines or in behind.
When the ball is lost we show intensity and urgency to get it back immediately. We are aided by our overloading of half spaces or the centre, meaning when we lose the ball we have 4 players around it to squeeze in on the man in possession and win it back, the closest man putting on the pressure and the other three blocking the vertical and two diagonal forward lanes, these 4 the hunters and using the rest as organisers to get behind the press, aided by having the line of three behind the attack when we are trying to overload the centre, or having the ball-far winger and FB tucked into the half space when we are overloading the opposite side, these two able to quickly squeeze the midfield options with Gagliardini and insure the opposition can’t play the ball out. The CBs will stay slightly deeper so if they try a first time longer ball for Auba, we have time to face him up and slow him down, rather than allowing him to run straight in behind us.
If our press is beaten we fall back into a low block. Form a box with DMs and CBs parallel to one and other its little space between the two lines making it impossible for their AM and CF to get involved, both wingers tightly marked by our FBs, and our wingers dropped back into midfield. Force them to commit a CM to the attack and into our DM/CB 2-2 box, once this happens, Tolisso will mark the DM so they can’t go back to him, but we will leave the CM open and instead prepare a pressing trap, winger ball side and CB on the opposite side ready to press him quickly from the front and back. We are able to narrow the FBs to the remaining CB when this trap is triggered, so that if they break it we still have a back 3 vs front 3 and Gagliardini as DM, so it is worth the risk to do this, as if we win the ball we face a back line with one CM out of position, DM occupied by Savic and 2 CFs on their CBs, with wingers bursting to join the attack.
Subs:
If Winning: Bentacur for Gagliardini 70’, fresh legs in midfield a more of a destroyer. Milinkovic-Savic for Icardi 75’, Dybala to CF in a 4-3-3, Savic will come on and break play up before it can develop. Pereira for Dybala 80’, Philipp to CF, Pereira offers extra protection down the left.
If Drawing: Bernardeschi for Philipp 70’, goes to the right side, Carrasco left. Milinkovic-Savic for Icardi 75’, Dybala up front, Savic behind, make use of his physicality, can aim longer for Savic to draw away Arsenal’s press and open up more space for Dybala and the wingers. Bruma for Carrasco 80’, extra pace and trickery on to attack tiring legs.
If Losing: Savic for Gagliardini 60’, 4-1-4-1, use Savic’s extra height and physicality to be more direct, draw markers away from the other attackers. Bernardeschi and Bruma for Conti and Philipp 70’, more direct attacking threat in Bruma to run at the RB as much as possible, whilst Bernardeschi and Carrasco down the right can be more interchangeable. When we attack, Guerreiro will tuck next to Tolisso and we become a 2-2-5-1, Bernardeschi and Bruma providing width, allowing Dybala and Carrasco to occupy the half spaces and Savic adds to the overloads.
Red Card:
GK = Grabara for Icardi, 4-4-1 with Dybala leading the line but dropping back when we defend, keep numbers back and wait for the chance to counter. Good luck to Grabara, Liverpool debut, make us proud.
FB = Pereira for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above tactically
CB = Upamecano for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above.
DM = Bentacur for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above.
Winger = Bernardeschi for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above, Carrasco also swaps sides if Philipp goes.
CF/AM = 4-4-1
--------------------- Butland -------------------
Walker --- Kompany --- van Dijk --- Sidibe
------------ Bakayoko --- Dembele -----------
Willian ------------- James ----------- L.Sane
---------------------- Morata -------------------
Forster, Zagadou, Merino, Coman, Hakan, Lukaku, B.Traore
A tough game v Villa, we look to take the game to them with fast free flowing football, looking to control the midfield and get our forwards plenty of opportunities. When we attack we attack with freedom, however when Villa have the ball we must be right in their faces, closing everything down very quickly, we cannot let them dictate today or we're fcked with the talent they have, we have talent, lots of it so lets use it!
In goal Butland, a super confident keeper, excellent shot stopper, who will close down strikers and reduce there shooting angels, look to spread the play from the back and release our wide men early. Many attacks will start from the goalkeeper.
Walker and Sidibe have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, one always staying back so we will have a back 3, they will bomb down the line supporting the wingers, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Morata. They look to play one twos with the attacking midfield 3 which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. van Dijk the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Kompany alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, bot hstrong defenders, dominate in the air and good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four nd let nothing through. Kompany and van Dijk up for corners, fullbacks and Bakayoko stay back. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both van Dijk and Kompany are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking.
We have gone for Dembele for the injured Verratti, this will give us a robust pairing in midfield, difficult to pass as both powerful and energetic. Bakayoko sits in a lot of the time just patrolling in front of the defence to allow other players more freedom on the ball, he snarls at the AM/SS of Villa and gives him no time what so ever to dictate the play of Villa. Having him breaking up play and giving the ball to Dembele,James or those out wide, will allow us to break quickly. Dembele can certainly pick a pass, so with his head up he will be looking for runners ahead of him looking for the pass from behind that will get them in on goal. A hard man to stop once he gets going so as he drives forward taking players out of the picture others must get into dangerous areas so he can pass to them and himself find another space for a return pass. When in defence mode he will sit in beside Bakayoko and stop any other AM coming through. Close, quick passing or if he sees a runner in the distance maiking a run, a cheeky wee dink over the top., When James has the ball he must look to drive forward with the ball or get it wide to the wingers, he will pass and move into positions where he can make himself available for the return pass, he can even push out wide anr run beyond Willian and Sane, which will give there fullbacks a dilemma of who to go with, thus hopefully freeing up space. More so when we push the ball right with Walker creating another dilemma for there fullback., Always looking for Morata, not always getting the ball to him but look for him to open up gaps with his movement and be prepared to pass to others as they sprint into the hole.
Willian and Sane are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos, using James and Dembele to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drives passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of himself centrally. Sane will use his tricks and flicks and pace to get him where he wants to be, again using Dembele and James to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Morata so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.
When we defend however 2 lines of 4 with James just ahead, Willian and Sane just tuck in a wee bit forcing them wide
Morata is in real form atm, a powerful, quick striker when given an opportunity he will score most times, has more movement to his game than Lukaku which will be important v a hard working, fit defence, this is perfect as the opportunities for him will hopefully come thick and fast, can out jump defenders, can out muscle defenders, turning them quickly and smacking a shot away, good with both feet and tremendous in the air, always look to leap early when crosses come in for him to attack. Can also drop back to pick up the ball which will allow James to move in front of him as he becomes the threat and Morata the provider.
Captain - van Dijk
Pens - Morata
Free Kicks - James/Hakan
Corners - James/Hakan
Subs -
Losing
70 Mins - Hakan and Lukaku for Willian and James, we go 442 with Hakan on the right, Lukaku the penalty box striker and Morata just off him as we look to get balls fired into the box
80 Mins - Zagadou for Sidibe, 3 at the back, Walker to right and Hakan to No.10 as we look to drive forward
Winning -
70 Mins - Hakan for James, extra energy to run at people
80 Mins - Zagadou for Sane, Willian to the left, Hakan to the right and Zagadou to a 3/5 man defence, Walker and Sidbe restrict there attacks to a bare minimum
85 Mins - B.Traore for Morata, on to run at the defence and keep the ball and possession up top
Drawing -
70 Mins - Hakan for James, Lukaku for Morata
80 Mins - Coman for Willian
----------------------- De Gea ------------------------
Carvajal ---- Bonucci ---- Manolas ---- A.Sandro
-------------- Ceballos ----- Busquets --------------
Callejon ------------- Pogba -------------- Neymar
----------------------- Aguero ------------------------
Gudino, Henrichs, Pellegrini, Alli, Sterling, Jesus, Poulsen
Today we aim to tire the young Hull team out, we expect them to come out the traps, but we can soak up the pressure and make our experience count, pass and move quickly, we have exceptional players to work with, always looking for space to run into to to make themselves available, even our centrebacks look for the ball as both are good ball players. Use the width as we are extremely quick down both flanks
In goal is De Gea as good a goalkeeper you will get in the league, 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 or big and powerful 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.
Carvajal and Sandro at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet and away from our danger area, They will look to keep them away from shooting areas where they will become dangerous. This is a vital clash in this game if we can keep to our plan we will keep them out of the game. They will be up against quality wingers so look to force him away from goal and backwards.Their marking abilities are sound, both have good positional sense and very quick, do not make rash decisions and will stay on their feet. 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. . 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. Always looking to force there fullback into a challenge in which we will hopefully ride and get into their danger area.
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. He is a very calming influence on the team and does everything very simply allowing others to do the running for him. Young Ceballos will go v the second most advanced midfielder or anyone else that is around that area. Even tho Busquets has the man marking role Ceballos will look to cover much of the pitchwith his youthful energy and exuberance, 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 Ceballos in particular will get us moving forward from the centre once he has picked the ball up from deep or from Busquets, his close control and ability to carry the ball into the attacking third once he has the ball is exceptional 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 Pogba in a slightly withdrawn No.10 role this is where we feel he will be at his best 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, Pogba 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, close them down and press them back, in particular Pogba and Ceballos, 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 Callejon 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 especially Pogba and Aguero. Callejon 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. Neymar will get a free run at them, you really cant coach a very special talent as long as he is focussed and does what he does best. However, he must be a team player and bring others into the game when he can. When they have the ball look to stick close to fullbacks/wingbacks and stop them coming forward, Just track them and use pace to get back and in around there faces to stop them becoming a threat. Always be looking for Pogba inside as the four make an awesome quartet in behind Aguero and a scary proposition for there slowish back line. If they play 3 at the back look to support Aguero and drag the wide CBs out wide
Aguero will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two/three with the aid of Pogba. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, 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 Callejon, Pogba will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side. But especially look for Pogba 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 - Jesus for Ceballos, Sterling for Callejon, Pogba drops in beside Busquets 442
80 Mins - Carvajal to RCB, Sandro to LM and Neymar up top in a 343 formation
82 Mins - Poulsen for Aguero, a target man to aim for
Winning -
70 Mins - Pellegrini for Pogba, he sits in beside Busquets to shore up the midfield
80 Mins - Jesus for Aguero, straight swap fresh energy
85 Mins - Henrichs for Neymar, close that side down
Drawing
70 Mins - Jesus for Aguero, Sterling for Callejon, Alli for Pogba, triple change, young fresh legs on to destroy a tiring defence
Attacking 4-3-3
We go and play our usual game, take the game to Portsmouth, we're in great form and can take advantage of their missing players and weakness in defence. Look to take revenge for losing in the Supercup.
The cm's get on the ball and look to open up the opposition, getting wingers in positions where they can get at the opposition and create for Ronaldo. Marcelo and Hazard key to our attacking threat, always looking to get them attacking their right side. With Ronaldo looking to benefit from the space and chances they'll create.
They have great players in the final third like KDB and Sanchez, and so it's in the middle third of the park where we look to make the difference count. As obviously its the cms and defence that will be key to dominating possession and we feel we have the players to do that against Pompey and take the upper hand here. Thiago and Koke are fantastic at controlling possession and dictating the tempos of the game.
We start with a high tempo, take control of the game early. The players know their roles well and we look to take advantage of the gaps between the lines of the opposition.
The cm trio are key, full of energy and two players fantastic at controlling possession, we want to dictate the tempo of the game. Thiago and Koke will look to dictate play and create. Get them on the ball and get pushing up the pitch, they are used to being on the offensive and playing in tight spaces, so we look to them to pick the passes. But if they play a high line they can pick the passes through or over the top to expose the space behind them.
At the back, Musacchio gets the nod as we feel a sweeper type cb that reads the play well is what we need next to Ramos so he doesn't have to worry and focus on what's behind him. Both great on the ball, they will be key for us looking to keep possession. Neuer behind will play his natural game controlling the box, and assured when playing the ball out.
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 Portsmouth defence.
In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Portsmouth. One fb bombing forward at a time. In the final third the wingers have freedom to come inside, freedom to find space off the ball and to look for ball. Look to get away from their marker, central or wide wherever they can find space and get on the ball.
In midfield, Kante reading the play looking to win the ball back as the dm, Koke will offer another energetic presence next to him with Thiago also important defensively being in the right position to intercept Portsmouth's play, he made more interceptions than anyone in Europe last season.
------------------- M.Neuer
Valencia - S.Ramos – Musacchio - Marcelo
--------------------- Kante
----------- Thiago.A ------ Koke
Asensio ------------------------------ Hazard
------------------- C.Ronaldo
Subs. Schmeichel, Blind, Ndidi, Xhaka, Douglas Costa, Correa, Diego Costa
Key to our attack is quick passing getting in between the lines. Get the cms on the ball in behind their attacking midfielders. Predominantly short passing on the deck, but varying our play when a counter is on.
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. Stop any attacks before they begin.
In a deep, narrow, rigid formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Draw them in to positions where they can’t hurt us, and then try and win the ball back. Then get forward quickly.
Always keep one fb back.
As Portsmouth advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1. Our wingers will track any forward runs made by their fbs, and Kante presses the space in front of our cbs, look to stop their AM having any space and taking him out the game.
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. Koke picks up the most advanced cm. The winger opposite play comes inside and sits on their deepest cm while Thiago presses the space next to and in front of Kante.
In this formation push them backwards and wide away from danger. Force them to take risks.
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 linking up with quick passing, getting the ball to our wingers and get balls into Ronaldo. The trio's movement will be key in opening up the opposition defence.
The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and start our attacks. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game.
Thiago and Koke looking to find space between their defence and midfield.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Thiago, Koke and the wingers will always be looking for the killer ball.
Ronaldo has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals.
Subs.If no red.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Diego Costa for Ronaldo. Super sub on giving fresh pace and energy up top.
If winning after 74 mins bring on Xhaka for Ndidi.Bring fresh energy and power to cm, give the attacking trio more freedom.
If winning after 78 mins bring on Douglas Costa for Asensio. Fresh pace.
If drawing after 67 mins bring on Douglas Costa for Koke. DC goes right, Asensio to cm.
If drawing after 82 mins bring on Diego Costa for Asensio, goes up top. 4-2-2-2
If losing after 60 mins bring on Douglas Costa for Koke. Asensio to cm.
If losing after 66 mins bring on Diego Costa for Asensio. Two up top.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Ndidi for Valencia. 3-5-2.
If a red, we go 4-3-1-1.
If Neuer or defender we bring on Schmeichel, if a cb,rb, or lb Blind for Thiago. Asensio to cm. Pace will be important with a man less.
If Kante, bring on Xhaka for Thiago. If Thiago or Koke, Asensio to cm.
If a winger, no change. Other winger behind Ronaldo.
If Ronaldo. Play 4-3-2. Asensio and Hazard up top.
After red card, if we have not made any subs. We look to make like for like changes in midfield and attack for fresh energy. Bringing on Ndidi for Thiago/Koke in cm, and Costa for the winger up top.
Arsenal vs Merseyside reds
Blaise Matuidi,Jordi Mboula,Adam Lallana, Aleix Vidal
……………………………………Buffon………………………………….
…………………Marquinhos..De Vrij….Romagnoli……….
Candreva……………Hamsik……….Rodri………………..Rodriguez
…………………………………….Lo Celso…………………………………….
………………………..Aubameyang………Mandzukic………………
Subs: Pickford, Rugani, Howedes, Neves, Benassi, Simeone, Berardi
Our indifferent start to the season continues, and we’re up against a transitional but still dangerous Liverpool side.
Back to our tried and tested 3-5-2 for this game as we look to gain a numerical advantage through the spine.
Icardi and Dybala are a genuinely top pairing and we need to stop them at all costs – with this is mind Marquinhos and Romagnoli are to drift wide as full-backs when we defend, allowing Candreva and Rodriguez to push further forward and buying them time to get back into position.
De vrij is the man to mark Icardi – he has no other assignment, wherever Mauro goes he’ll follow, don’t worry about being pulled out of position as there are others that can cover you – sly digs,elbows all the dark arts employed in Serie A are to be used today – we stop Icardi finding space and we’re in business.
Dybala is the other big threat and is fantastic in SS role – I’m sacrificing Rodri’s natural game today to act as a second skin for Dybala, as with De Vrij, Rodri will have to try all he can to nullify the diminutive Argentine.
Candreva and Rodriguez as we all know are great going forwards and they’ll bring the much needed width to our narrow set-up, both are such willing runners that they’re both allowed to push at the same time giving us 2 easy out-balls, as well as allowing us to “switch” the play.
Hamsik is another who’s sacrificing his natural game today to cover for the injured Matuidi – will play the role of the deeper playmaker today get the ball off the defence and drive it forwards, the one advantage we have with him there is his phenomenal work-rate means we gain a very good box-box player who can pick out the longer pass, by-passing any pressure that Liverpools midfield bring to proceedings.
Lo Celso comes in as our #10, the kid looks a special talent, slight in build though but a great eye, thankfully LSTD doesn’t have any real hatchet men in the side so we can let the kid have some fun.
Auba and Mandy gives us a decent combo up front of pace and predatory instincts if Auba and the work rate and power of Mandzukic, we all know what they offer going forwards, defensively though I have a plan, Auba has the pace so he’ll sit in the lines between the defence and the midfield cutting off and easy out-ball, meanwhile Mandy harries the man in possession forcing them long, long and hurried means ample opportunity for cheap turnovers.
Subs
65 mins
Simeone > Mandy
Neves > Rodri
Howedes > De Vrij
----------------------Moreira
Florenzi----Hummels----Godin----Rose
-----------Casemiro------Radja
Salah-----------------Ozil--------------Mane
----------------------Suarez
Subs
Hart, Koulibaly, Clyne, Keita, Pjanic, Coutinho, Firmino
Moreira 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 possesion to stop counter attacks, Both CB"s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are so they are always aware. 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 2 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with Ozil 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 to make runs 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 wide man has the ball, the wideman 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 - Ozil takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out inbetween 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 and 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 - Pjanic for Ozil - 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 - Keita for Radja and Coutinho for Salah - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Pjanic for Casemiro - Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing



70 Mins - Koulibaly, Firmino and Pjanic for Rose, Casemiro and Florenzi - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers.
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
----------------------Pollersbeck
Weiser--------Süle-----------Kempf------Plattenhardt
------------------Geis-----------Dahoud
--------Mahrez-------Ziyech-------------Pjaca
-----------------------Ibrahimovic
Subs:Hennessey, Stark, Biglia, Suárez, Forsberg, Milik, Isak
Our defensive unit consists of Niklas Süle and Marc-Oliver Kempf paired up at centre-back, Mitchell Weiser at right-back and Marvin Plattenhardt at left-back, with Johannes Geis and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Geis 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 Geis 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, Johannes Geis.
A holding midfielder through and through, Geis 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 Geis such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Riyad Mahrez, Hakim Ziyech and Marko Pjaca as our band of three attacking midfielders with Zlatan Ibrahimovic 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 Geis or Dahoud, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Weiser and Plattenhardt can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Geis and Dahoud can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Riyad Mahrez and Marko Pjaca, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Hakim Ziyech our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Ziyech 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 Pjaca, Mahrez or Ibrahimovic in via fast passing combinations.
Ibrahimovic is a formidable centre forward and he possesses 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
Milik on for Ibrahimovic and Forsberg on for Pjaca
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Tactics
Page 50 of 65
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posted on 16/9/17
Chelsea v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Injuries: Baines, Mathieu, Pepe, Milner
(4-3-2-1)
Ter Stegen
Cancelo - Mustafi - Cahill - Digne
A.Herrera - Strootman - R.Sanches
D.Silva - Son
Higuain
Subs: Rulli, Smalling, Cuadrado, Kenedy, Lucas, Jese, Immobile
-----------------
A very tough game today, but we can get at this Chelsea side if we are very strict and stick to our gameplan, so I feel we can target them on the flanks and create chances for Higuain to finish.
Christmas comes early as we are playing a 4-3-2-1 today, Ter Stegen in goal, Cancelo, Mustafi, Cahill and Digne across the back four, Herrera, Strootman and Sanches marshal the midfield, with David Silva and Son the main support for Higuain upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting three points today. Chelsea are obviously strong and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
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.
Mustafi/Cahill - Cahill to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Mustafi 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 Mustafi to pick up the second striket and leave Strootman 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/Digne - Both of you to force the Chelsea 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 Silva/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/Sanches. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Herrera/Strootman/Sanches - Herrera playing the box to box role, assist Strootman in dealing with the Chelsea attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Strootman stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Strootman 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. Sanches will be the most attacking of the three, link the midfield to Silva, Son and Higuain, marauding forward when required but also able to drop back alongside Herrera and Strootman when we don't have the ball.
Silva/Son - Both playing as wide AM's, and both have the trickery to beat the Chelsea 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/Sanches, 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.
Higuain - you will be expected to occupy the Chelsea 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 Silva/Son on occasion.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Silva off, Cuadrado on. Switch to a more conventional 4-5-1, Cuadrado to RM, Son drops back to LM. Look to absorb pressure and hit Chelsea on the break.
If drawing: Strootman off, Lucas on. Change to 4-2-3-1, Herrera and Sanches in midfield, Lucas - Silva - Son behind Higuain upfront. Push for the winner.
If losing: Mustafi and Strootman off, Lucas and Immobile on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, Cancelo - Cahill - Digne, Herrera the playmaker, Lucas - D Silva - Sanches - Son behind Higuain - Immobile upfront. Push for goals.
posted on 16/9/17
------------------------- Ederson
---------- Varane ------ Javi.M ----- Laporte
Oxlade ------- Wanyama --- Vidal ----------- Ghoulam
------------------------ De Bruyne
-------------- Lewandowski -- Werner
Subs: Meret, Bellerin, Rabiot, Gundogan, Ousmane, A.Sanchez, Mertens
Important game, looking to keep up the good form and aim for those top spots.
Possession with purpose and urgency. plenty of link up play, width and movement, dragging their mfs and defenders out of position and penetrating in the final third.
Strong block of 4 in midfield, very physical.
Energy and high tempo throughout, quick on our feet and looking to win the ball back as quickly as possible.
We drop slightly deeper when Newcastle are on the ball looking to nullify the threat they pose with their pace. De Bruyne working with our duo in midfield to press the space.
Two strong goalscoring outlets that will have a right go at their defence, in fine form and allow us to mix up the way we play and go more direct.
3-4-3: Possession based:
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 trio 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.
Varane and Laporte should shift slightly wider when on the offense allowing our wing-backs to push up in a bank of 4 in mf.
Vidal and Wanyama, 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.
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, also prevent counter attacks.
Our AM De Bruyne will look to play inbetween the lines, roaming in the oppositions half and and looking to act as the link between midfield and attack. Pick up pockets of space and use his awareness to dictate the play, never afraid to play a key pass in behind to unlock their defence to find a player in space.
Defensively coming deeper and working alongside our mf duo in a 3, squeeze and don't allow any space or time in central areas, forcing them back and in tight spots.
Flanks will be key as we look to expose them in wide areas and create space in midfield.
Two powerful WG-backs in Oxlade and Ghoulam, need to hug the touchline and provide the width allowing us to stretch the opposition. Always on the move so we can can get them in behind and use them as outlets going forward when picking a pass.
Very possession orientated, comfortable playing quick 1-2's and accelerating into space, overlapping often and getting early deliveries into the box for our strikers to attack.
As well as scoring goals Lewandowski and Werner have a big role today, one often look to come deep and link with others, hold up play and take the CB with you, spinning beyond and opening up the space for our wingers and De Bruyne to run into.
When Newcastle are in possession we will initially look to press from front with our two strikers and then drop off deeper with men behind the ball if they bypass with a strong block of 4.
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.
The reason we want our front two to press is to force Newcastle to play long and concede possession, we feel they lack any sort of aerial presence in the side so are less likely to win contested duels.
If they advance we then form a rigid structure looking to press the space and dropping off with men behind the ball, only allowing them to play where we want them too, stifle the midfield and stop them from picking their passes into an attacker, Wanyama man-man their AM, looking to harass him and using his physical prowess to really put him off his game, Vidal and De Bruyne cutting off passing lanes.
Our wingbacks and wide CB's should interlink throughout, off the ball our wing-backs need to track back and help with defensive duties preventing overloads. Keep them wide and give them no space to work with.
Essentially a 3-5-2, 5 in mf working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wing-backs then drop off to mark the oppositions wingers and help our CB's to prevent any space being left in behind.
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. Ox & Ghoulam can come up to support the play and provide the width. The front 3 burst forward.
Subs:
IF WINNING: 70th minute – (3-5-2)
- Rabiot > De Bruyne
- Sanchez > Werner
Compact 3-5-2, Rabiot in a mf trio allowing Vidal a little more freedom to burst forward. Sanchez partners Lewa looking to drop deep often and drive, opening up space beyond.
IF DRAW: 70th minute – (3-4-3 - wide)
- Ousmane > De Bruyne
- Sanchez > Werner
- Rabiot > Wanyama (75th minute)
Get Sanchez and Ousmane on to stretch the game and attack tired legs/fb's. Rabiot dictate from deep.
IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- Ousmane > Laporte
- Sanchez > De Bruyne
- Bellerin > Ox
4-4-2, direct. long balls into the box and constantly looking for the two strikers.
Flood forward and look for an equalizer/winner.
C - Lewandowski
FK's - De Bruyne
Corners – De Bruyne
Pens - Lewandowski
posted on 17/9/17
Comment deleted by Article Creator
posted on 21/9/17
------------------------- De Gea -------------------------
Carvajal ----- Sanchez ----- Caldara ----- A.Sandro
-------------- S.Khedira ------ Busquets ---------------
Callejon ------------ Griezmann ------------- Neymar
----------------------- Kun Aguero ----------------------
Gudino, Danilo, Mensah, Pogba, Sterling, Pellegrini, Jesus
We want to play high tempo football, quick short passing only going long if we really need to. Use the width of the pitch, playing quick one-twos, neat triangles to get beyond the opposition. We will focus on the wide positions and use our fullbacks and wingers to great effect if they play 541 then push there wingbacks back and reduce the numbers they have high up the pitch, if they play 451 then always get in amongst them when they have the ball. Its all about possession football, keeping it, playing the quick passing amongst each other waiting for the opportunity to strike, wether that be out wide or through the middle
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.
Sanchez and Caldara at centre back, lstd will focus on them as our weakness but I don't think they are as they will be strong at the back, on this occassion Caldara will man mark the CF, Doesn't which of the 3 he faces he has come up against them before and I don't envisage any problems for him. He 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. He must show commitment and not be fearful of the strikers skills. When in possession he will look to pass the ball short to the fullbacks or the midfielders ahead of him. Sanchez 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 the striker 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 so more likely to just make the short passes to those around him. Both go up for corners and are a huge threat. The fullbacks and Khedira stay back
Carvajal and Sandro 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, a big game partnership, Busquets he Is there 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 Liverpool players back which also stops them becoming a threat, like said he is quick and direct and tricky on the ball. Spread the play, he is in a free No.10 role so at times may even find himself switching with Callejon or Neymar to break their defence up. Will at times also switch with Aguero, again this is to confuse there defence and get them out of position. He is also a very hard working fella so look to annoy there DM and make him hurry his passes or lose possession
Neymar and Callejon 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. Both will look to drive down the line and keep it to the outside making them come to them I want them playing like proper wingers spreading the play and essentially taking players out wide with them to leave gaps for our central two. Whip in dangerous crosses for others to attack, not always high balls as we don't really have a great deal of height in open play so llo to drive the ball in for the front two to nick in in front of slower defenders They both also loves to cut into have a pop at goal. When they have the ball look to stick close to fullbacks/wingbacks and stop them coming forward, track the fullbacks and use pace to get back and in around there faces to stop them becoming a threat. Always be looking for Griezmann inside as the four make an awesome quartet in behind Aguero and a scary proposition for there slowish back line both wingers are capable of moving centrally if Griezmann comes wide and support Aguero.
Aguero will get plenty chances, 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 Callejon and Neymar, Griezmann will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side. But especially look for Griezmann as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.
As lsdt will probably focus on our defence as our weak point then we will focus on his defence also,m not something I would normally do, but his defence imo isn't great and we have players who will attack in numbers and with constant pressure they will crumble and eventually fall to the talent we have in the final third.
Captain - Busquets
Penalties - Griezmann
Free kicks - Griezmann
Corners - Wingers
Subs:-
Losing -
70 Mins - Jesus for Callejon, Pogba for Khedira, more speed and energy down the right hand side, Pogba playing deep will look to open up the defence.
80 Mins - Mensah for Aguero - TFM will go to RCB with Sandro and Carvajal to midfield, Jesus, Griezmann & Neymar will make up our front three
Winning -
70 Mins - Pellegrini for Aguero, Griezmann up front with Pellegrini into LCM to make that extra man slightkly deeper as they look to bolster there attacking options
80 Mins - Danilo for Callejon, Jesus for Neymar, Griezmann goes to the left, he is hard working so will help out defensively as will Danilo, Jesus up front to run at everything
Drawing -
70 Mins - Pogba for Aguero, Jesus for Callejon, Pogba to No.10, Griezmann to RW and Jesus up front, change it around a bit
80 Mins - Danilo for Khedira, gives that extra energy in midfield for the final 10 mins
posted on 21/9/17
———————Courtois
——Lindelof——Umtiti——Upamecano
Conti—Tolisso—Partey—Savic—Guerreiro
————Belotti————Dybala
Subs: Begovic, Christensen, R.Pereira, Gagliardini, Philipp, Carrasco, Icardi
Captain: Thibaut Courtois
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala
Penalties: Paulo Dybala
Corners: Corentin Tolisso
3-6-1/3-4-3 looking to set pressing traps and have our WBs make the field as compact as possible. When defending the centre, we use a fake press, strikers occupy the half spaces, allowing their CBs to step forward but not pick passes into the forward lines instead leaving Busquets and the FBs as options. When Busquets gets the ball, the strikers squeeze tighter to him and Savic steps forward to make him feel even more crowded. At this stage the WBs will be narrow to play and the wide CBs will push up into the half spaces to make the centre of the pitch feel too crowded to pass through. Force Chelsea to use Khedira running to get them forward, our first trap. Tolisso and Partey will immediately push up on the CM going 2 v 1 with Savic and Dybala closing around him in a layered 2-2 to block his route to the side, the WBs and wide CBs forming a really tight, narrow block to cut out forward passing lanes to the forwards, give him no where to go and win the ball from him when he has vacated his defensive zone. The initial fake press allows us to keep a compact block initially and force a riskier ball progression from Chelsea which we can quickly suffocate thanks to staying compact at the start.
The second pressing trap is set when build up goes through the FBs. As soon as their deeper players show us their intention to use the FB our WB must be right up onto him, not allowing him to progress the ball vertically(the ball side CB pushing up onto the winger if they have wingers), with the ball side forward also coming across to press in a 2 v 1, squeeze the WB into the touchline. The wide CM and Partey then form the next layer of a 2-2 block to stop progression back into the centre in advanced areas, Tolisso and the far side WB narrowing the pitch by moving across to add depth. The spare forward will then start a run which will cover off Busquets as a passing option and create the pressing trap. The only easy pass for the FB will be back to the CB, as soon as he turns back to do this, we spring on them, both strikers immediately hunting the CB down, with the one marking Busquets using the momentum of his initial run to be quickest to him, arching his run to not allow progression to any other CB(s), and the striker who went to the FB now stopping the ball back to Busquets. The opposite side WB comes around to add depth to this press and not allow circulation to the opposite flank, with Savic and Tolisso both stepping up and keeping the opposition penned right in, not allowing Khedira or Busquests to get the CBs out of trouble, targeting the weak distribution skills we either force an error from which we can counter or we force a longer ball, with our CB line pushed up to cover this, all much bigger than Chelsea’s forwards which means its easy pickings.
If they force us deeper we become narrower and more compact, 5-diamond-1, WBs tight to the wide CBs so the wingers or any inside forwards are always doubled up on, Partey making sure no one can play between the lines, Umtiti man to man with CF, wide Cms plugging any wholes, so dealing with the FB if he tries to double up, or crowding midfield if they are attacking centrally. Dybala stays on Busquets at the head of the diamond.
Playing on the counter means transitioning very quickly. If we win it higher up from their FBs or CBs we flood men into the space behind and either side of the robbed player, Savic making it a front three when we attack and looking to get in behind when the defenders are distracted by our front two. Importantly, the ball side WB will always drop back in when the ball is won, let the three forwards occupy the space and instead use the opposite WB to burst forward and make it a front 4, running into the space vacated by them having to narrow to the other side of the pitch to avoid being overloaded when we win it back, and also insuring if they win it back quickly, there is no counter attack down the easy flank. Likewise if we win it off Khedira we take advantage of their defensive shape being broken, Savic and Tolisso can attack either side of Busquets, Dybala and Belotti up against the CBs and both WBs immediately on the attack. There isn’t too much to say for these counters, overloads will be crucial which means lightning transitions. When building from deeper we want the WBs as wide as possible, have them on the touchline and both pushed up higher in order to really stretch and distort the opposition press. Our CBs can be creators for us today, pouncing on scraps from midfield and using their good passing to start counters, whilst also using their ability to beat a man on the ball(the wide CBs), using their power to beat the small Chelsea forwards and open space up quickly. At times if the CBs can’t find a way out, Tolisso can drop into their line and overload the press, find space to use his distribution skills. At times mix things up and go longer, Belotti is a great target man, use him, especially if we can’t get out of our half or if Busquets is out of position defensively, bypassing their midfield. Plenty of diagonal switches, using Belotti in the half spaces or up against the FBs to bring the ball down, Dybala always close by and Savic and the WBs ready to run off the pair of them when the chance arises.
posted on 21/9/17
Subs:
If Winning: Gagliardini for Tolisso 70’, fresh legs in midfield. R.Pereira for Savic 75’, Guerreiro into midfield and a set of fresh legs at WB and someone who can make use of the flanks in counters if they take off their FBs. Philipp for Dybala 80’, comes on and we play a 5-diamond-1. Philipp’s job is to sit on Busquets and stop him controlling the game from deep.
If Drawing: Gagliardini for Tolisso 70’, fresh legs. R.Pereira for Guerreiro 75’, fresh impetus down the left. Icardi for Dybala 80’, go with two out and out Cbs, Icardi looking to run off Belotti to get in behind.
If Losing: Icardi and Carrasco for Lindelof and Savic 60’, 4-4-2 with Carrasco and Dybala drifting out to in to really put pressure on Chelsea. Gagliardini for Partey 70’, more creative influence in midfield to get the ball forward faster.
posted on 22/9/17
-------------------- F.Forster ---------------------
Walker --- Kompany --- van Dijk --- D.Sidibe
------------ Bakayoko --- M.Verratti -----------
M.Sabitzer -------- James --------- Leroy Sane
-------------------- R.Lukaku ---------------------
Carevic, Kolarov, Zagadou, Dembele, Hakan, Morata, B.Traore
A tough game v Newcastle, we look to take the game to them with fast free flowing football, looking to control the midfield and get our forwards plenty of opportunities. When we attack we attack with freedom, however when Newcastle have the ball we must be right in their faces, closing everything down very quickly, we cannot let them dictate today or we're fcked with the talent they have, we have talent, lots of it so lets use it!
In goal Forster, a super confident keeper, excellent shot stopper, who will close down strikers and reduce there shooting angels, look to spread the play from the back and release our wide men early.
Walker and Sidibe have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, one always staying back so we will have a back 3, they will bomb down the line supporting the wingers, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Lukaku. They look to play one twos with the attacking midfield 3 which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. van Dijk the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Kompany alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, bot hstrong defenders, dominate in the air and good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four nd let nothing through. Kompany and van Dijk up for corners, fullbacks and Bakayoko stay back.
Our midfield 3 have a bit of everything,Bakayoko the destroyer, Verratti the playmaker and James the link between midfield and attack. Bakayoko sits in a lot of the time just patrolling in fornt of the defence to allow Verratti more freedom on the ball, he snarls at the AM/SS of Newcastle and gives him no time whatso ever to dictate the play of Newcastle. Having him breaking up play and giving the ball to Verratti or James will allow us to break quickly. Vearrtti can certainly pick a pass, so with his head up he will be looking for runners ahead of him looking for the pass from behind that will get them in on goal., When in defence mode he will sit in beside Bakayoko and stop any other AM coming through. Close, quick passing or if he sees a runner in the distance maiking a run, a cheeky wee dink over the top., When James has the ball he must look to drive forward with the ball or get it wide to the wingers, he will pass and move into positions where he can make himself available for the return pass, he can even push out wide anr run beyond Sabitzer and Sane, which will give there fullbacks a dilemma of who to go with, thus hopefully freeing up space. More so when we push the ball right with Walker creating another dilemma for there fullback., Always looking for Lukaku, not always getting the ball to him but look for him to open up gaps with his movement and be prepared to pass to others as they sprint into the hole.
Sabitzer and Sane are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos, using James and Verrati to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drives passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of himself centrally. Sane will use his tricks and flicks and pace to get him where he wants to be, again using Verratti and James to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Lukaku so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.
When we defend however 2 lines of 4 with James just ahead, Sabitzer and Sane just tuck in a wee bit forcing them wide
Lukaku is in real form atm, a powerful, quick striker when given an opportunity he will score most times, very much a penalty box striker, but this is perfect as the opportunities for him will hopefully come thick and fast, can out jumo defenders, can out muscle defenders, turning them quickly and smacking a shot away, good with both feet and tremendous in the air, always look to leap early when crosses come in for him to attack.
Captain - van Dijk
Pens - Lukaku/Morata
Free Kicks - Verratti
Corners - Verratti
Subs -
Losing -
70 Mins - Morata for Sabitzer, James to the right 4-4-2
75 Mins - B.Traore & Zagadou for James and Sidibe, Traore up front to the right of Lukaku and Zagadou into a back 3 we will have to play quick possession football to get it to our front 3, or last ditch pump it long
Forster
Kompany - van Dijk - Zagadou
Walker - Bakayoko - M.Verratti - L.Sane
B.Traore - Lukaku - Morata
Winning -
70 Mins - Dembele for James and to CM, Bakayoko drop deeper in behind Dembele and Verratti and Morata for Lukaku
80 Mins - Kolarov for Sane, help out defensively, see it out hopefully
Drawing -
70 Mins - Hakan for James, Morata for Lukaku, a change up front hopefully fresh legs will do the trick
75 Mins - B.Traore for Sabitzer
posted on 22/9/17
Arsenal @ WWFC
Injuries:
Pablo Maffeo,Daniele Rugani, Jordan Pickford,Mario Mandzukic
………………………………………………..Buffon……………………………….
……………………………Marquinhos…..De Vrij…..Romagnoli…………
…………………………………………Matuidi………Neves…………….
Candreva……………………………………Hamsik………………………………Mboula
…………………………………Berardi…………………..Aubameyang………..
Subs: Scuffet, Rodriguez, Howedes, Lallana, Lo Celso, Benassi, Simeone
Away to the wolves, in what even in these early stages is a must win game for us, got our first win on the board last week and we have to build on that momentum.
Risky formation this week, but we want to over-load Wolves in their half and pin them in, put the game to bed.
Fast paced direct (long) passes, bypassing the midfield area and utilising our two wingers to really stretch the Wolves defence, this added to our front-two plus Hamsik as the #10 will force Wolves to play deeper, so even though they may have the numericals in midfield they can’t hammer home the advantage as we’re playing with a front-five.
When Wolves have possession in the early phases our front five push heavy, this should cut off any easy passes they’ll rely on to build an attack, forcing rushed passes or better still long one, pretty much gifting us the ball back – when we get it, back to the plan, look up pick the runner and find him in space.
Marquinhos and Romagnoli will be our wider CB’s – they’ll shuffle into the full-back area to track to the wingers when Wolves counter whilst they wait for Neves or Matuidi to get across and provide a “double-up”
De Vrij is the man to hold the centre and take out the focal point of Wolves attacks, stop him in whichever way is deemed necessary.
Neves will sit and spray the ball about, has a lovely way of spreading the play from what I’ve seen of him this season and with 5 willing runners in-front of him he should be well-up for this – Matuidi is alongside him and I’m taking the shackles off and letting him go box-to-box, great engine on him and he’ll thrive with that freedom.
Candreva at RW is a solid worker and he’ll track back when needed to help defence, nowt fancy about his play but he won’t let us down, tow-the-line beat his man and whip the balls in the box.
Mboula on the other flank is a trickier player, very fast though and he’ll look to come inside pulling Wolves’ RB with him, leaving more space out-wide.
Berardi and Auba will sit in the gaps between the Centre-halves but look to drift wide in the early stages, we want them taking defenders with so that allows a bigger gap through the middle for Hamsik to wonder into.
A bold attacking strategy but we have a strong enough defence and a potent enough attack to make this stick.
Subs
55 mins – Riccardo Rodriguez > Mboula – gives us the perfect balance now as he evens out Candreva on the other flank.
70 mins – Benassi > Neves – like for like change just fresh legs
80 mins – Lo Celso > Hamsik – like for like
posted on 22/9/17
Vs ARSENAL(FIXTURE 9)
————————Begovic
—Conti—Christensen—Umtiti—Guerreiro
—————Tolisso——Gaglairdini
Carrasco————Dybala————Philipp
—————————Icardi
Subs: Kamil Grabara(GK), Upamecano, R.Pereira, Bentacur, Milinkovic-Savic, Bruma, Bernardeschi
Captain: Mauro Icardi
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala
Corners: Corentin Tolisso
Penalties: Mauro Icardi
In builduo, Gagliardini will position himself behind the striker, between the first two lines of defence, in order to manipulate the press of the striker with his own movement. This is accompanied by a CB bringing the ball forward, looking to engage the press. Provoke the press by then playing the ball to the FB, who moves it back to the CB who will have dropped deeper after the pass, this allows us to draw them out. Tolisso and Dybala drop to provide the CB with an option, but if they are too tightly marked, they both stretch, dragging their markers wider, with Gagliardini doing the same, and we open up a lane to Icardi dropping to receive and hold the ball, or a lane to the half spaces with either winger able to come inside for a pass. Both CBs have great range in their passing to achieve this, whilst if the marking isn’t too tight, we can give it to Dybala/Tolisso to establish possession higher up. If they press in a 3-2-5, both CMs drop and align vertically with the CBs, with Dybala and the wingers dropping deeper infield to draw all their lines forward, whilst Icardi pushes up to detach the back line, then the CBs/DMs/GK go longer for the runs of the FBs behind their WBs.
In later phases of attack we place emphasis on the half spaces and creating overloads in these areas by forming diamonds through which we can pass quickly. The wide forwards will be the key to this, both at ease playing infield, they look to make the move infield to receive the ball between FB and DM with Dybala and Tolisso coming towards the build up to join them, Tolisso slightly deeper and Dybala further infield, creating this overload around the half space will draw Arsenal’s defence in towards the centre where we can use the abilities of Tolisso and Dybala to create openings, linking quickly as a trio with the winger, whilst the ball side FB will look to push right up the field, take advantage of Arsenal focusing on our central play. From here we open up a host of option, a ball to the FB who has space on the flank to either beat his man or whip a ball into the box, a pass to Icardi who can either drop in to provide a wall pass to get one of the attackers in behind, or play on the shoulder himself to receive a pass in behind, or we can use Icardi’s movement as a decoy and use the diamond instead to get in, Dybala and the wingers both excellent at getting into space between FB and CB and Tolisso able to pick the ball out. Alternatively if the route is blocked we switch the play to the open side, Tolisso and Gagliardini(positioned deeper to offer the out ball) can move the ball quickly across to where the opposite side winger will have entered the vacant half space where he has space to work in, from here he can either run between CB and FB to receive a through ball from our CMs, or he can act as a link, either playing the ball through for the striker, or out to the opposite FB who will be motoring down the open flank. If the half space occupation doesnt create the chances we need, our FBs can tuck infield alongside Gagliardini, these three act as a shield behind the attack but also allow us to overload midfield and keep the ball circulating, giving our 5 attackers the freedom to rotate position and use their movements to find space between the lines or in behind.
When the ball is lost we show intensity and urgency to get it back immediately. We are aided by our overloading of half spaces or the centre, meaning when we lose the ball we have 4 players around it to squeeze in on the man in possession and win it back, the closest man putting on the pressure and the other three blocking the vertical and two diagonal forward lanes, these 4 the hunters and using the rest as organisers to get behind the press, aided by having the line of three behind the attack when we are trying to overload the centre, or having the ball-far winger and FB tucked into the half space when we are overloading the opposite side, these two able to quickly squeeze the midfield options with Gagliardini and insure the opposition can’t play the ball out. The CBs will stay slightly deeper so if they try a first time longer ball for Auba, we have time to face him up and slow him down, rather than allowing him to run straight in behind us.
If our press is beaten we fall back into a low block. Form a box with DMs and CBs parallel to one and other its little space between the two lines making it impossible for their AM and CF to get involved, both wingers tightly marked by our FBs, and our wingers dropped back into midfield. Force them to commit a CM to the attack and into our DM/CB 2-2 box, once this happens, Tolisso will mark the DM so they can’t go back to him, but we will leave the CM open and instead prepare a pressing trap, winger ball side and CB on the opposite side ready to press him quickly from the front and back. We are able to narrow the FBs to the remaining CB when this trap is triggered, so that if they break it we still have a back 3 vs front 3 and Gagliardini as DM, so it is worth the risk to do this, as if we win the ball we face a back line with one CM out of position, DM occupied by Savic and 2 CFs on their CBs, with wingers bursting to join the attack.
Subs:
If Winning: Bentacur for Gagliardini 70’, fresh legs in midfield a more of a destroyer. Milinkovic-Savic for Icardi 75’, Dybala to CF in a 4-3-3, Savic will come on and break play up before it can develop. Pereira for Dybala 80’, Philipp to CF, Pereira offers extra protection down the left.
If Drawing: Bernardeschi for Philipp 70’, goes to the right side, Carrasco left. Milinkovic-Savic for Icardi 75’, Dybala up front, Savic behind, make use of his physicality, can aim longer for Savic to draw away Arsenal’s press and open up more space for Dybala and the wingers. Bruma for Carrasco 80’, extra pace and trickery on to attack tiring legs.
If Losing: Savic for Gagliardini 60’, 4-1-4-1, use Savic’s extra height and physicality to be more direct, draw markers away from the other attackers. Bernardeschi and Bruma for Conti and Philipp 70’, more direct attacking threat in Bruma to run at the RB as much as possible, whilst Bernardeschi and Carrasco down the right can be more interchangeable. When we attack, Guerreiro will tuck next to Tolisso and we become a 2-2-5-1, Bernardeschi and Bruma providing width, allowing Dybala and Carrasco to occupy the half spaces and Savic adds to the overloads.
Red Card:
GK = Grabara for Icardi, 4-4-1 with Dybala leading the line but dropping back when we defend, keep numbers back and wait for the chance to counter. Good luck to Grabara, Liverpool debut, make us proud.
FB = Pereira for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above tactically
CB = Upamecano for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above.
DM = Bentacur for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above.
Winger = Bernardeschi for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above, Carrasco also swaps sides if Philipp goes.
CF/AM = 4-4-1
posted on 22/9/17
----------------------Lloris
Clyne-----Hummels-----Godin-----Rose
-----------Casemiro------Keita
Suso-----------------Ozil--------------Mane
----------------------Suarez
Subs
Moreira, Koulibaly, Bertrand, Radja, Pjanic, Coutinho, Kane
Lloris is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will claim it without trouble, 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 possesion to stop counter attacks, Both CB"s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are so they are always aware. 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 2 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with Ozil 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 to make runs 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 wide man has the ball, the wideman 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 - Ozil takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out inbetween 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, Suso 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. Keita takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt and 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 - Pjanic for Ozil - 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 - Radja for Keita and Coutinho for Suso - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Pjanic for Casemiro - Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing



70 Mins - Koulibaly, Kane and Pjanic for Rose, Casemiro and Clyne - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers.
posted on 22/9/17
Attacking 4-3-3
At home and in good form, we play our usual game and take the game to Hull. Today we look to play more direct, with two players offering strong defensive cover to the defence, giving more attacking freedom to the fbs, Asensio and the front 3.
We look to stretch the game, play with width. Get the ball out wide to our wingers, Asensio looking to link with the fbs and wingers to create and get balls into the box. We have great pace and talent down the wings to open up Hull.
Tire the opposition out, let the ball do the work for us and have them chase us. We'll be patient. Possession starts at the back, cbs keeping it simple, but Ramos can go long if they push up. We play a high line, squeeze them in.
The cm trio are key, full of energy, with two players fantastic at winning the ball back we want them to offer protection to the team and give more freedom to our attacking players to get the most out of them. Kante and Xhaka we want to keep things simple in possession. Xhaka has freedom to hit a long shot, but otherwise we want them taking the ball from defence and spreading the play. Asensio plays with freedom in attack, finding space in between the opposition defence and midfield.
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 Hull defence. We let our attacking players have attacking freedom in the final third.
In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Hull. One fb bombing forward at a time.The other advanced but still offeringa deep option if we go back. In the final third the wingers have freedom to come inside, freedom to find space off the ball and to look for ball. Look to get away from their marker, central or wide wherever they can find space and get on the ball.
------------------- Schmeichel
Azpilicueta- S.Ramos – Otamendi - Marcelo
----------------- Kante --- Xhaka
--------------------- Asensio
D.Costa ------------------------------- Hazard
------------------- C.Ronaldo
Subs. Schmeichel, Blind, Ndidi, Alena, Vitolo, Correa, D.Costa
Key to our attack is quick attacking play. We are happy to play direct, get the ball wide, and get our fbs and wingers doubling up on the opposition.
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. Stop any attacks before they begin.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Draw them in to positions where they can’t hurt us, and then try and win the ball back. Then get forward quickly.
Always keep one fb more reserve and a dm patrolling in front of the cbs. We have a quick defence and energy and pace in midfield to stop quick breaks.
As Hull advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-2-3-1. Our wingers will track any forward runs made by their fbs, and Kante presses the space in front of our cbs, look to stop their AM having any space and taking him out the game. Xhaka sits in the zonal area next to him on goalside, always looking to cover.
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. Asensio picks up the most advanced cm. The winger opposite play comes inside and sits on their deepest cm while Xhaka presses the space next to Kante.
In this formation push them backwards and wide away from danger. Force them to take risks.
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 linking up with quick passing, getting the ball to our wingers and get balls into Ronaldo. The trio's movement will be key in opening up the opposition defence.
Kante and Xhaka seeking to collect the ball from defence and spread the play wide and to Asensio. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game.
We are happy to go direct to our wingers. Get them working with the supporting fb and Asensio to get in behind the opposition defence.
Ronaldo has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals.
Subs.
If winning or drawing after 70 mins bring on Alena for D.Costa. Asensio goes right.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Vitolo for D.Costa. Fresh pace and energy.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Correa for Ronaldo. Super sub on.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Correa for Xhaka. 4-2-2-2. Attack.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on D.Costa for Marcelo. 3-2-2-3. Gung ho.
If losing after 60 mins bring on A.Correa for Xhaka. 4-2-2-2. Super sub and hard working forward on.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Diego Costa for Douglas Costa. Correa to right wing.
If losing after 76 mins bring on Alena for Marcelo. 3-5-2. Azpi 3rd cb. More creative options.
posted on 23/9/17
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
posted on 23/9/17
------------------------- Ederson
---------- Varane ------ Javi.M ----- Laporte
Oxlade ------- Wanyama --- Vidal ----------- Mendy
----- Ousmane --- Lewandowski -- A.Sanchez
Subs: Meret, Juanfran, Tah, Rabiot, Eriksen, De Bruyne, Werner
Another important game, we need to win these if are going to mount a challenge. In very good form and top of the league thus far so we go again.
Possession with purpose and urgency. plenty of link up play, 1-2's and overlapping, width and movement, dragging their mfs and defenders out of position and penetrating in the final third.
Mixing it up at times and going long from the back, always quick on our feet and looking for areas to get in behind.
Defensively we drop deeper with men behind the ball when Villa are in possession. Allow their defenders to have the ball at the back but as soon as they move the ball into midfield we press.
Congesting the midfield and defensive areas and cutting out passing lanes which should essentially help in nullifying the threat of their key midfielders whilst preventing supply to their forwards.
We feel they lack pace in attack especially with Robben out, so with numbers back and with the mobile defenders we possess they will struggle for the most part to break us down.
When we win the ball deep we should look to transition quickly from defence to attack, hitting the front 3 and using our quick wingers to break.
3-4-3: Possession based:
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 trio 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.
Varane and Laporte should shift slightly wider when on the offense allowing our wing-backs to push up in a bank of 4 in mf.
Vidal and Wanyama, 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.
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, also prevent counter attacks.
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 two footed & excellent dribblers that more often than not will beat their man, need to get their heads down and accelerate with pace, linking with our wing-backs as they hug the touchline and open up the space ahead.
Always on the move and being unpredictable, never stay idle and easy to mark. Making off the ball runs and taking defenders with you, keeping them in two minds whether to stay or go.
When in possession, our wing-backs take it in turns to burst forward. One sits slightly 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 has a big role today, very prolific and great killer instinct but one of those strikers that influences the play even without the ball at his feet. He should look to come deep often and link with others, hold up play and take the CB with you, opening up the game and space for our wingers and Vidal to run into beyond.
When Aston Villa are in possession we will look to drop off with 10 men behind the ball looking to press the space. Allowing them the ball deep in their half with little danger to us.
We then exert pressure in midfield and defensive zones, looking to condense the size of the pitch and cutting out passing lanes.
Organisation is key. We look to 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. Wanyama man-man their AM, looking to harass him and using his physical prowess to really put him off his game, Vidal tracking runs off the ball.
Wing-backs 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 5-4-1, four in mf working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wing-backs push back to help our wide CB's to prevent any space being left in behind.
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. Ox & Mendy can come up to support the play and provide the width. The front 3 burst forward.
Subs:
IF WINNING: 70th minute – (3-5-2)
- Eriksen > Ousmane
- Werner > Sanchez
- Rabiot > Vidal (75th minute)
Compact 3-5-2, Eriksen forms a trio in midfield and dictates from deep. Lewa and Werner partner in attack, clinical. Rabiot on 76th min.
IF DRAW: 70th minute – (3-4-1-2 - wide)
- De Bruyne > Ousmane
- Rabiot > Wanyama
- Werner > Sanchez (82nd minute)
Rabiot use his fresh energy to get about in midfield, De Bruyne plays in behind Lewa and Sanchez looking to use his creative spark to find them in space. Werner on 82nd min.
- IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- Juanfran > Ox
- Werner > Laporte
- De Bruyne > Vidal
4-4-2, direct. long balls into the box and constantly looking for the two strikers.
Flood forward and look for an equalizer/winner.
C - Lewandowski
FK's - A.Sanchez
Corners – Sanchez
Pens - Lewandowski
posted on 23/9/17
---------------------------Horn
Toljan----------Süle-----------Kempf------Plattenhardt
------------------Geis-----------Dahoud
--------Schöpf----------Ziyech-------------Pjaca
-----------------------Ibrahimovic
Subs:Hennessey, Klostermann, de Jong, Suárez, Forsberg, Milik, 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 Johannes Geis and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Geis 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 Geis 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, Johannes Geis.
A holding midfielder through and through, Geis 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 Geis such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Alessandro Schöpf, Hakim Ziyech and Marko Pjaca as our band of three attacking midfielders with Zlatan Ibrahimovic 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 Geis or Dahoud, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Toljan and Plattenhardt can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Geis and Dahoud can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Alessandro Schöpf and Marko Pjaca, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Hakim Ziyech our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Ziyech 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 Pjaca, Schöpf or Ibrahimovic in via fast passing combinations.
Ibrahimovic is a formidable centre forward and he possesses 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
Milik on for Ibrahimovic and Forsberg on for Pjaca
posted on 23/9/17
BRUM VS Brighton
---------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
-------------Bailly-------------Maguire---------Verthonghen-------------
-----------------------------------Carvalho----------------------------------------
Hysaj-----------Brozovic----------------Kessie--------------M Alonso
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------Vardy----------Keita--------------------------------
Subs - Coleman, Ake, Sanson, Calvert Lewin, Allan, Mario, Llorente
CAPTAIN - VERT
CK'S - BROZOVIC
FK'S - ALONSO
PENALTIES - VARDY
Up against a depleted Brighton side who will be without key players in defence David Luiz and Zouma. Defend high up and try and win the ball back quickly as possible.
When we win possession of the ball I want the players to play the long ball to Vardy/Keita, so they can use their pace to play off the oppo's shoulders and beat the offside trap. When defending, I want Carvalho to help our wingbacks against the Brighton wingers. Whenever they are 1 vs 1 with our wingbacks I want Carvalho to double up on them. Kessie and Brozovic will look to keep things ticking over in the middle and will look to play quick passes forward and to look for through balls for Keita and Vardy to run to.
Defence
I got a top class keeper in goal so he will be hard to beat. Comnand your area. The defence is well balanced, with all 3 CB's playing in the top flight regularly irl. Verthonghen and Bailly have the pace to play the 3atb formation with ease. Maguire 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. Watch out for oppo wingers and stop them cutting in onto their stronger foot.
Defence Mid
William Carvalho
Carvalho will be on 100% defensive mode. No attacking whatsoever. When the oppo wingers have the ball he will help our wingbacks against them and double up against them. He's a strong lad and as soon as he wins the ball back he will pass it to the more technical players.
Centre Mids
Brozovic + Kessie
Kessie main job is to use his strength and physical ability in the centre. When the oppo AM has the ball close him down asap but when we have the ball make runs forward. Brozovic will play a b2b role. Brozovic has the ability to pick out a pass while Kessie is an engine which can run all day long. They complement each other perfectly. Both have a deadly shot from long range so they won't be afraid to shoot given the opportunity. When defending, one of you will press the oppo CM to try and get the ball off them and regain possession, preferably Kessie as he has more strength and can use his huge body to shrug away the challenges.
Wing backs
Hysaj + Alonso
Hysaj 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 Keita are very good at playing in between the lines.
Strikers
Keita + Vardy
I want Keita and Vardy to use their pace to play off the oppo shoulders and beat the offside trap. They will look to close down the oppo asap when they have the ball but only 1 player will press at a time. Keita will be given freedom to drift over to the left wing and use his pace to target the Brighton RB from time to time.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Change formation to 343. Bring on Calvert Lewin for Alonso and Mario for Hysaj. Llorente on for Carvalho aswell. Play a very high line and try and get a goal.
-------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
------------Bailly------------Maguire---------Verthonghen--------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mario------------Kessie--------Brozovic--------------Calvert Lewin
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------Vardy-------Llorente-------Keita-----------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take off Vardy and put on Allan in CM. Change formation to 361 ultra defensive with the defensive line getting even deeper.
-------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
---------------Bailly-------Maguire---------Verthonghen--------------
Hysaj-----------------------Carvalho---------------------------------Alonso
-----------------Brozovic------Allan---------Kessie--------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------Keita------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Llorente ON for Keita, use him as a target man so he can use aerial abillity to win headers.
Allan ON for Brozovic
Mario ON for Hysaj
Like for like changes just fresh legs to help the team.
IF WE GET A RED CARD
-If my GK gets sent off yolo swag it and put Carvalho in net.
-If one of my back 3 CB's get sent off change formation to a 4atb and play Hysaj and Alonso as fullbacks.
-If one of my CM's get sent off take off Keita and put on Allan in CM to replace the sent off player.
posted on 23/9/17
ASTON VILLA
Oblak
Sokratis Alderweireld Boateng
Aurier Modric Marchisio N’Zonzi Luis
Benzema Cavani
SUBS: Chesney, Matic, Fabregas, Mkhitaryan, Zielinski, Bentaleb, Reus
In defence we play Sokratis Alderweireld and Boateng today. Alderweireld will play on the centre and act as the playmaker in chief. He will position himself to receive from the keeper and defenders and is often the free-man. He will have more time on the ball to play vertically to the forwards. Sokratis and Boateng will position well during the build up and stretch as wide as possible to give opposition more horizontal ground to cover in their pressing. We expect the nullify Portsmouth’s pressing on our back line this way. Aurier and Luis will run up and down the sides and play their natural games, displaying their great defensive and offensive abilities.
Marchisio will position himself deep in midfield to press the opposition and control the deeper areas in midfield. He will be supported by Modric and N’Zonzi on his sides. Modric provides the guile and will link with the final third, and play his natural game in controlling the tempo of the match. N’Zonzi will provide the legs dragging the team forwards when attacking and pulling the team backwards when defending, and more importantly to deny any space to KDB.
In attack I will pair Benzema and Cavani together with Benzema the deeper player, playing his natural game to link midfield and striker together. Benzema's role is very crucial to how we play as we need his movements to disrupt the flow of Portsmouth’s game plan, and most importantly his goal scoring instincts.
I expect Portsmouth to be very compact, and therefore we will move the ball to try and move the opposition, to create any sort of disorganisation. The point of our build up at the back is to invite pressure. By moving the ball in deeper areas sideways with the centre backs as wide as possible, we should trigger Portsmouth’s press. We will use the ball as a 'carrot'. We will move the ball from right to left and back to the right after Portsmouth collectively shifting to that side, allowing us to attack their un-loaded area.
Each player has their own important roles to play. Marchisio as the deep midfielder is important in the first build up phase either directly by moving the ball from the back or indirectly by occupying markers and opening up passing lanes for the centre halves. This should allow our back line to have time to move the ball into the forward areas. Boateng and Sokratis should have a lot of space to move forward to and provide good diagonal angles for Alderweireld to pass to. Modric and N'Zonzi won't contribute much in this phase, their aim is to create space and not receive the ball from the centre halves. They will spread out to the wide areas to occupy the flanks and half spaces leaving a lot of space centrally. This is so we can pull their defences into wider areas create space centrally for Benzema and Cavani to drop in the lines to receive.
N'Zonzi will need good off the ball movement today, whether running directly with the ball or indirectly he will need to open up spaces for his teammates and himself. Wing backs are normally bypassed in the buildup and will be high up the pitch to pin back their wingbacks to help create space in deeper areas for better circulation of the ball. Modric will be like a 'half-wing' and because he is press resistant he is very hard to dispossess. His starting position will be aggressive and mainly occupy the last third. We will use overloads and combinations in half spaces and on the flanks to maintain possession. It is crucial that the ball carrier has many angles and options for a pass in Portsmouth's confined area.
The main way we defend is by controlling the centre of the pitch and pressing at the right moments. Pressing starts with the forwards with their aggressive movements and moving horizontally to press their centre halves. As the forwards press, the rest of the team moves up the pitch to restrict space to reduce time and space they have. A team with poor spacing and players who can't build up under pressure will be forced to play aimless long balls that my defenders will recover easily. Defending is all about controlling space and our players will move together in a compact block in pressing. We can switch to a 4-5-1 if Portsmouth decide they want to attack down our sides during their spell of dominance
Sokratis Alderweireld Boateng Luis
Aurier Modric Marchisio N'Zonzi Cavani
Benzema
Or
Aurier sokratis Alderweireld Boateng
Cavani Modric Marchisio N'Zonzi Luis
Benzema
and immediately switch back to a 3-5-2 after possession is regained. By dropping into a back four at times allows us defensive stability defending the wide areas so we don't suffer from an overload. The ball-near wingback pushes high to press the ball while the far side wingback drops into the backline to make it a back four, allowing our midfield to maintain central positions and control the middle. Off the ball our defenders will be very man-orientated on Portsmouth's forwards. Alderweireld can press very high during Portsmouth's build up following their striker’s movements, for example.
We may also employ pressing traps depending on how Portsmouth play, we will lure them into a gap on the sides as we pack the centre so that we can press them, forcing them to either circulate the ball back (which by that time one of our forwards would have sprinted to cut off his closest passing lane) or we regain possession.
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 Matic for Marchisio.
75 - Modric's legs may tire towards the end of the game so we bring on Fabregas in his place, and maybe pick out passes.
80 - Reus 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 Mkhitaryan.
75 - If we're still not winning, we bring on Reus for sokratis, go 4-4-2:
Aurier Alderweireld Boateng Luis
Mkhitaryan N'Zonzi Modric Reus
Benzema Cavani
85 - Fabregas for Modric, Fabregas knows how to pick a pass and can finish.
If we get into a winning position after any of the drawing/losing subs, we stick with 4-4-2 to make sure that we have two banks of four to effectively defend the lead, while playing on the counter attack.
posted on 23/9/17
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v Arsenal
Injuries: Cancelo, Drinkwater, Jorginho, Celina
Ter Stegen
Mustafi - Pepe - Cahill
Trippier - A Herrera - Strootman - Digne
D Silva - R Sanches
Higuain
Subs: Rulli, Smalling, Milner, Son, Lucas, Jese, Immobile
-----------------
A tough but winnable game today at home to Arsenal, hopefully our back three will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 3-4-2-1 today, Ter Stegen in goal, Mustafi, Pepe and Cahill in the back three, Trippier and Digne as wingbacks, Herrera and Strootman anchoring the midfield, with David Silva and Renato Sanches in attacking midfield roles off of Higuain upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting three points today. Arsenal are strong and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
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.
Mustafi/Cahill/Pepe - Cahill and Mustafi to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Pepe to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Two of you go forward for setpieces.
Trippier/Digne - Both of you to force the Arsenal 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 five with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Silva/Sanches 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/Strootman. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Herrera/Strootman - Herrera playing the box to box role, assist Strootman in dealing with the Arsenal attack when we don't have the ball, if they play an AM Strootman stay on him, but don't follow if he drifts wide. Be first to any loose balls, in possession Strootman to look for the attackers and pass rather than bring the ball out, Herrera to burst forward to join the front three on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others.
Silva/Sanches - Both playing as wide AM's, and both have the trickery to beat the Arsenal 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/Strootman, and capitalise on the space Higuain's presence will create for you.
Higuain - you will be expected to occupy the Arsenal 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 Silva/Sanches on occasion.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Silva off, Milner on. Switch to a 5-3-1-1 diamond, wingbacks drop to fullback, Milner joins Herrera and Strootman in front of them, with Sanches behind Higuain. Absorb the Arsenal pressure and hit them on the break.
If drawing: Strootman and Mustafi off, Lucas and Son on. Change to 4-2-3-1, Tripper - Pepe - Cahill - Digne at the back, Herrera and Sanches in midfield, Lucas - Silva - Son behind Higuain upfront. Push for the winner.
If losing: Mustafi, Pepe and Strootman off, Lucas, Son and Immobile on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, Cancelo - Cahill - Digne, Herrera the playmaker, Lucas - D Silva - Sanches - Son behind Higuain - Immobile upfront. Push for goals.
posted on 26/9/17
Vs ARSENAL(FIXTURE 9)
————————Begovic
—Conti—Christensen—Umtiti—Guerreiro
—————Tolisso——Gaglairdini
Carrasco————Dybala————Philipp
—————————Icardi
Subs: Kamil Grabara(GK), Upamecano, R.Pereira, Bentacur, Milinkovic-Savic, Bruma, Bernardeschi
Captain: Mauro Icardi
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala
Corners: Corentin Tolisso
Penalties: Mauro Icardi
In builduo, Gagliardini will position himself behind the striker, between the first two lines of defence, in order to manipulate the press of the striker with his own movement. This is accompanied by a CB bringing the ball forward, looking to engage the press. Provoke the press by then playing the ball to the FB, who moves it back to the CB who will have dropped deeper after the pass, this allows us to draw them out. Tolisso and Dybala drop to provide the CB with an option, but if they are too tightly marked, they both stretch, dragging their markers wider, with Gagliardini doing the same, and we open up a lane to Icardi dropping to receive and hold the ball, or a lane to the half spaces with either winger able to come inside for a pass. Both CBs have great range in their passing to achieve this, whilst if the marking isn’t too tight, we can give it to Dybala/Tolisso to establish possession higher up. If they press in a 3-2-5, both CMs drop and align vertically with the CBs, with Dybala and the wingers dropping deeper infield to draw all their lines forward, whilst Icardi pushes up to detach the back line, then the CBs/DMs/GK go longer for the runs of the FBs behind their WBs.
In later phases of attack we place emphasis on the half spaces and creating overloads in these areas by forming diamonds through which we can pass quickly. The wide forwards will be the key to this, both at ease playing infield, they look to make the move infield to receive the ball between FB and DM with Dybala and Tolisso coming towards the build up to join them, Tolisso slightly deeper and Dybala further infield, creating this overload around the half space will draw Arsenal’s defence in towards the centre where we can use the abilities of Tolisso and Dybala to create openings, linking quickly as a trio with the winger, whilst the ball side FB will look to push right up the field, take advantage of Arsenal focusing on our central play. From here we open up a host of option, a ball to the FB who has space on the flank to either beat his man or whip a ball into the box, a pass to Icardi who can either drop in to provide a wall pass to get one of the attackers in behind, or play on the shoulder himself to receive a pass in behind, or we can use Icardi’s movement as a decoy and use the diamond instead to get in, Dybala and the wingers both excellent at getting into space between FB and CB and Tolisso able to pick the ball out. Alternatively if the route is blocked we switch the play to the open side, Tolisso and Gagliardini(positioned deeper to offer the out ball) can move the ball quickly across to where the opposite side winger will have entered the vacant half space where he has space to work in, from here he can either run between CB and FB to receive a through ball from our CMs, or he can act as a link, either playing the ball through for the striker, or out to the opposite FB who will be motoring down the open flank. If the half space occupation doesnt create the chances we need, our FBs can tuck infield alongside Gagliardini, these three act as a shield behind the attack but also allow us to overload midfield and keep the ball circulating, giving our 5 attackers the freedom to rotate position and use their movements to find space between the lines or in behind.
When the ball is lost we show intensity and urgency to get it back immediately. We are aided by our overloading of half spaces or the centre, meaning when we lose the ball we have 4 players around it to squeeze in on the man in possession and win it back, the closest man putting on the pressure and the other three blocking the vertical and two diagonal forward lanes, these 4 the hunters and using the rest as organisers to get behind the press, aided by having the line of three behind the attack when we are trying to overload the centre, or having the ball-far winger and FB tucked into the half space when we are overloading the opposite side, these two able to quickly squeeze the midfield options with Gagliardini and insure the opposition can’t play the ball out. The CBs will stay slightly deeper so if they try a first time longer ball for Auba, we have time to face him up and slow him down, rather than allowing him to run straight in behind us.
If our press is beaten we fall back into a low block. Form a box with DMs and CBs parallel to one and other its little space between the two lines making it impossible for their AM and CF to get involved, both wingers tightly marked by our FBs, and our wingers dropped back into midfield. Force them to commit a CM to the attack and into our DM/CB 2-2 box, once this happens, Tolisso will mark the DM so they can’t go back to him, but we will leave the CM open and instead prepare a pressing trap, winger ball side and CB on the opposite side ready to press him quickly from the front and back. We are able to narrow the FBs to the remaining CB when this trap is triggered, so that if they break it we still have a back 3 vs front 3 and Gagliardini as DM, so it is worth the risk to do this, as if we win the ball we face a back line with one CM out of position, DM occupied by Savic and 2 CFs on their CBs, with wingers bursting to join the attack.
Subs:
If Winning: Bentacur for Gagliardini 70’, fresh legs in midfield a more of a destroyer. Milinkovic-Savic for Icardi 75’, Dybala to CF in a 4-3-3, Savic will come on and break play up before it can develop. Pereira for Dybala 80’, Philipp to CF, Pereira offers extra protection down the left.
If Drawing: Bernardeschi for Philipp 70’, goes to the right side, Carrasco left. Milinkovic-Savic for Icardi 75’, Dybala up front, Savic behind, make use of his physicality, can aim longer for Savic to draw away Arsenal’s press and open up more space for Dybala and the wingers. Bruma for Carrasco 80’, extra pace and trickery on to attack tiring legs.
If Losing: Savic for Gagliardini 60’, 4-1-4-1, use Savic’s extra height and physicality to be more direct, draw markers away from the other attackers. Bernardeschi and Bruma for Conti and Philipp 70’, more direct attacking threat in Bruma to run at the RB as much as possible, whilst Bernardeschi and Carrasco down the right can be more interchangeable. When we attack, Guerreiro will tuck next to Tolisso and we become a 2-2-5-1, Bernardeschi and Bruma providing width, allowing Dybala and Carrasco to occupy the half spaces and Savic adds to the overloads.
Red Card:
GK = Grabara for Icardi, 4-4-1 with Dybala leading the line but dropping back when we defend, keep numbers back and wait for the chance to counter. Good luck to Grabara, Liverpool debut, make us proud.
FB = Pereira for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above tactically
CB = Upamecano for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above.
DM = Bentacur for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above.
Winger = Bernardeschi for Icardi, 4-4-1 as above, Carrasco also swaps sides if Philipp goes.
CF/AM = 4-4-1
posted on 26/9/17
--------------------- Butland -------------------
Walker --- Kompany --- van Dijk --- Sidibe
------------ Bakayoko --- Dembele -----------
Willian ------------- James ----------- L.Sane
---------------------- Morata -------------------
Forster, Zagadou, Merino, Coman, Hakan, Lukaku, B.Traore
A tough game v Villa, we look to take the game to them with fast free flowing football, looking to control the midfield and get our forwards plenty of opportunities. When we attack we attack with freedom, however when Villa have the ball we must be right in their faces, closing everything down very quickly, we cannot let them dictate today or we're fcked with the talent they have, we have talent, lots of it so lets use it!
In goal Butland, a super confident keeper, excellent shot stopper, who will close down strikers and reduce there shooting angels, look to spread the play from the back and release our wide men early. Many attacks will start from the goalkeeper.
Walker and Sidibe have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, one always staying back so we will have a back 3, they will bomb down the line supporting the wingers, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Morata. They look to play one twos with the attacking midfield 3 which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. van Dijk the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Kompany alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, bot hstrong defenders, dominate in the air and good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four nd let nothing through. Kompany and van Dijk up for corners, fullbacks and Bakayoko stay back. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both van Dijk and Kompany are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking.
We have gone for Dembele for the injured Verratti, this will give us a robust pairing in midfield, difficult to pass as both powerful and energetic. Bakayoko sits in a lot of the time just patrolling in front of the defence to allow other players more freedom on the ball, he snarls at the AM/SS of Villa and gives him no time what so ever to dictate the play of Villa. Having him breaking up play and giving the ball to Dembele,James or those out wide, will allow us to break quickly. Dembele can certainly pick a pass, so with his head up he will be looking for runners ahead of him looking for the pass from behind that will get them in on goal. A hard man to stop once he gets going so as he drives forward taking players out of the picture others must get into dangerous areas so he can pass to them and himself find another space for a return pass. When in defence mode he will sit in beside Bakayoko and stop any other AM coming through. Close, quick passing or if he sees a runner in the distance maiking a run, a cheeky wee dink over the top., When James has the ball he must look to drive forward with the ball or get it wide to the wingers, he will pass and move into positions where he can make himself available for the return pass, he can even push out wide anr run beyond Willian and Sane, which will give there fullbacks a dilemma of who to go with, thus hopefully freeing up space. More so when we push the ball right with Walker creating another dilemma for there fullback., Always looking for Morata, not always getting the ball to him but look for him to open up gaps with his movement and be prepared to pass to others as they sprint into the hole.
Willian and Sane are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos, using James and Dembele to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drives passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of himself centrally. Sane will use his tricks and flicks and pace to get him where he wants to be, again using Dembele and James to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Morata so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.
When we defend however 2 lines of 4 with James just ahead, Willian and Sane just tuck in a wee bit forcing them wide
Morata is in real form atm, a powerful, quick striker when given an opportunity he will score most times, has more movement to his game than Lukaku which will be important v a hard working, fit defence, this is perfect as the opportunities for him will hopefully come thick and fast, can out jump defenders, can out muscle defenders, turning them quickly and smacking a shot away, good with both feet and tremendous in the air, always look to leap early when crosses come in for him to attack. Can also drop back to pick up the ball which will allow James to move in front of him as he becomes the threat and Morata the provider.
Captain - van Dijk
Pens - Morata
Free Kicks - James/Hakan
Corners - James/Hakan
Subs -
Losing
70 Mins - Hakan and Lukaku for Willian and James, we go 442 with Hakan on the right, Lukaku the penalty box striker and Morata just off him as we look to get balls fired into the box
80 Mins - Zagadou for Sidibe, 3 at the back, Walker to right and Hakan to No.10 as we look to drive forward
Winning -
70 Mins - Hakan for James, extra energy to run at people
80 Mins - Zagadou for Sane, Willian to the left, Hakan to the right and Zagadou to a 3/5 man defence, Walker and Sidbe restrict there attacks to a bare minimum
85 Mins - B.Traore for Morata, on to run at the defence and keep the ball and possession up top
Drawing -
70 Mins - Hakan for James, Lukaku for Morata
80 Mins - Coman for Willian
posted on 27/9/17
----------------------- De Gea ------------------------
Carvajal ---- Bonucci ---- Manolas ---- A.Sandro
-------------- Ceballos ----- Busquets --------------
Callejon ------------- Pogba -------------- Neymar
----------------------- Aguero ------------------------
Gudino, Henrichs, Pellegrini, Alli, Sterling, Jesus, Poulsen
Today we aim to tire the young Hull team out, we expect them to come out the traps, but we can soak up the pressure and make our experience count, pass and move quickly, we have exceptional players to work with, always looking for space to run into to to make themselves available, even our centrebacks look for the ball as both are good ball players. Use the width as we are extremely quick down both flanks
In goal is De Gea as good a goalkeeper you will get in the league, 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 or big and powerful 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.
Carvajal and Sandro at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet and away from our danger area, They will look to keep them away from shooting areas where they will become dangerous. This is a vital clash in this game if we can keep to our plan we will keep them out of the game. They will be up against quality wingers so look to force him away from goal and backwards.Their marking abilities are sound, both have good positional sense and very quick, do not make rash decisions and will stay on their feet. 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. . 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. Always looking to force there fullback into a challenge in which we will hopefully ride and get into their danger area.
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. He is a very calming influence on the team and does everything very simply allowing others to do the running for him. Young Ceballos will go v the second most advanced midfielder or anyone else that is around that area. Even tho Busquets has the man marking role Ceballos will look to cover much of the pitchwith his youthful energy and exuberance, 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 Ceballos in particular will get us moving forward from the centre once he has picked the ball up from deep or from Busquets, his close control and ability to carry the ball into the attacking third once he has the ball is exceptional 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 Pogba in a slightly withdrawn No.10 role this is where we feel he will be at his best 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, Pogba 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, close them down and press them back, in particular Pogba and Ceballos, 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 Callejon 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 especially Pogba and Aguero. Callejon 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. Neymar will get a free run at them, you really cant coach a very special talent as long as he is focussed and does what he does best. However, he must be a team player and bring others into the game when he can. When they have the ball look to stick close to fullbacks/wingbacks and stop them coming forward, Just track them and use pace to get back and in around there faces to stop them becoming a threat. Always be looking for Pogba inside as the four make an awesome quartet in behind Aguero and a scary proposition for there slowish back line. If they play 3 at the back look to support Aguero and drag the wide CBs out wide
Aguero will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two/three with the aid of Pogba. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, 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 Callejon, Pogba will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side. But especially look for Pogba 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 - Jesus for Ceballos, Sterling for Callejon, Pogba drops in beside Busquets 442
80 Mins - Carvajal to RCB, Sandro to LM and Neymar up top in a 343 formation
82 Mins - Poulsen for Aguero, a target man to aim for
Winning -
70 Mins - Pellegrini for Pogba, he sits in beside Busquets to shore up the midfield
80 Mins - Jesus for Aguero, straight swap fresh energy
85 Mins - Henrichs for Neymar, close that side down
Drawing
70 Mins - Jesus for Aguero, Sterling for Callejon, Alli for Pogba, triple change, young fresh legs on to destroy a tiring defence
posted on 28/9/17
Attacking 4-3-3
We go and play our usual game, take the game to Portsmouth, we're in great form and can take advantage of their missing players and weakness in defence. Look to take revenge for losing in the Supercup.
The cm's get on the ball and look to open up the opposition, getting wingers in positions where they can get at the opposition and create for Ronaldo. Marcelo and Hazard key to our attacking threat, always looking to get them attacking their right side. With Ronaldo looking to benefit from the space and chances they'll create.
They have great players in the final third like KDB and Sanchez, and so it's in the middle third of the park where we look to make the difference count. As obviously its the cms and defence that will be key to dominating possession and we feel we have the players to do that against Pompey and take the upper hand here. Thiago and Koke are fantastic at controlling possession and dictating the tempos of the game.
We start with a high tempo, take control of the game early. The players know their roles well and we look to take advantage of the gaps between the lines of the opposition.
The cm trio are key, full of energy and two players fantastic at controlling possession, we want to dictate the tempo of the game. Thiago and Koke will look to dictate play and create. Get them on the ball and get pushing up the pitch, they are used to being on the offensive and playing in tight spaces, so we look to them to pick the passes. But if they play a high line they can pick the passes through or over the top to expose the space behind them.
At the back, Musacchio gets the nod as we feel a sweeper type cb that reads the play well is what we need next to Ramos so he doesn't have to worry and focus on what's behind him. Both great on the ball, they will be key for us looking to keep possession. Neuer behind will play his natural game controlling the box, and assured when playing the ball out.
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 Portsmouth defence.
In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Portsmouth. One fb bombing forward at a time. In the final third the wingers have freedom to come inside, freedom to find space off the ball and to look for ball. Look to get away from their marker, central or wide wherever they can find space and get on the ball.
In midfield, Kante reading the play looking to win the ball back as the dm, Koke will offer another energetic presence next to him with Thiago also important defensively being in the right position to intercept Portsmouth's play, he made more interceptions than anyone in Europe last season.
------------------- M.Neuer
Valencia - S.Ramos – Musacchio - Marcelo
--------------------- Kante
----------- Thiago.A ------ Koke
Asensio ------------------------------ Hazard
------------------- C.Ronaldo
Subs. Schmeichel, Blind, Ndidi, Xhaka, Douglas Costa, Correa, Diego Costa
Key to our attack is quick passing getting in between the lines. Get the cms on the ball in behind their attacking midfielders. Predominantly short passing on the deck, but varying our play when a counter is on.
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. Stop any attacks before they begin.
In a deep, narrow, rigid formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Draw them in to positions where they can’t hurt us, and then try and win the ball back. Then get forward quickly.
Always keep one fb back.
As Portsmouth advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1. Our wingers will track any forward runs made by their fbs, and Kante presses the space in front of our cbs, look to stop their AM having any space and taking him out the game.
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. Koke picks up the most advanced cm. The winger opposite play comes inside and sits on their deepest cm while Thiago presses the space next to and in front of Kante.
In this formation push them backwards and wide away from danger. Force them to take risks.
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 linking up with quick passing, getting the ball to our wingers and get balls into Ronaldo. The trio's movement will be key in opening up the opposition defence.
The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and start our attacks. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game.
Thiago and Koke looking to find space between their defence and midfield.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Thiago, Koke and the wingers will always be looking for the killer ball.
Ronaldo has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals.
Subs.If no red.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Diego Costa for Ronaldo. Super sub on giving fresh pace and energy up top.
If winning after 74 mins bring on Xhaka for Ndidi.Bring fresh energy and power to cm, give the attacking trio more freedom.
If winning after 78 mins bring on Douglas Costa for Asensio. Fresh pace.
If drawing after 67 mins bring on Douglas Costa for Koke. DC goes right, Asensio to cm.
If drawing after 82 mins bring on Diego Costa for Asensio, goes up top. 4-2-2-2
If losing after 60 mins bring on Douglas Costa for Koke. Asensio to cm.
If losing after 66 mins bring on Diego Costa for Asensio. Two up top.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Ndidi for Valencia. 3-5-2.
If a red, we go 4-3-1-1.
If Neuer or defender we bring on Schmeichel, if a cb,rb, or lb Blind for Thiago. Asensio to cm. Pace will be important with a man less.
If Kante, bring on Xhaka for Thiago. If Thiago or Koke, Asensio to cm.
If a winger, no change. Other winger behind Ronaldo.
If Ronaldo. Play 4-3-2. Asensio and Hazard up top.
After red card, if we have not made any subs. We look to make like for like changes in midfield and attack for fresh energy. Bringing on Ndidi for Thiago/Koke in cm, and Costa for the winger up top.
posted on 29/9/17
Arsenal vs Merseyside reds
Blaise Matuidi,Jordi Mboula,Adam Lallana, Aleix Vidal
……………………………………Buffon………………………………….
…………………Marquinhos..De Vrij….Romagnoli……….
Candreva……………Hamsik……….Rodri………………..Rodriguez
…………………………………….Lo Celso…………………………………….
………………………..Aubameyang………Mandzukic………………
Subs: Pickford, Rugani, Howedes, Neves, Benassi, Simeone, Berardi
Our indifferent start to the season continues, and we’re up against a transitional but still dangerous Liverpool side.
Back to our tried and tested 3-5-2 for this game as we look to gain a numerical advantage through the spine.
Icardi and Dybala are a genuinely top pairing and we need to stop them at all costs – with this is mind Marquinhos and Romagnoli are to drift wide as full-backs when we defend, allowing Candreva and Rodriguez to push further forward and buying them time to get back into position.
De vrij is the man to mark Icardi – he has no other assignment, wherever Mauro goes he’ll follow, don’t worry about being pulled out of position as there are others that can cover you – sly digs,elbows all the dark arts employed in Serie A are to be used today – we stop Icardi finding space and we’re in business.
Dybala is the other big threat and is fantastic in SS role – I’m sacrificing Rodri’s natural game today to act as a second skin for Dybala, as with De Vrij, Rodri will have to try all he can to nullify the diminutive Argentine.
Candreva and Rodriguez as we all know are great going forwards and they’ll bring the much needed width to our narrow set-up, both are such willing runners that they’re both allowed to push at the same time giving us 2 easy out-balls, as well as allowing us to “switch” the play.
Hamsik is another who’s sacrificing his natural game today to cover for the injured Matuidi – will play the role of the deeper playmaker today get the ball off the defence and drive it forwards, the one advantage we have with him there is his phenomenal work-rate means we gain a very good box-box player who can pick out the longer pass, by-passing any pressure that Liverpools midfield bring to proceedings.
Lo Celso comes in as our #10, the kid looks a special talent, slight in build though but a great eye, thankfully LSTD doesn’t have any real hatchet men in the side so we can let the kid have some fun.
Auba and Mandy gives us a decent combo up front of pace and predatory instincts if Auba and the work rate and power of Mandzukic, we all know what they offer going forwards, defensively though I have a plan, Auba has the pace so he’ll sit in the lines between the defence and the midfield cutting off and easy out-ball, meanwhile Mandy harries the man in possession forcing them long, long and hurried means ample opportunity for cheap turnovers.
Subs
65 mins
Simeone > Mandy
Neves > Rodri
Howedes > De Vrij
posted on 29/9/17
----------------------Moreira
Florenzi----Hummels----Godin----Rose
-----------Casemiro------Radja
Salah-----------------Ozil--------------Mane
----------------------Suarez
Subs
Hart, Koulibaly, Clyne, Keita, Pjanic, Coutinho, Firmino
Moreira 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 possesion to stop counter attacks, Both CB"s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are so they are always aware. 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 2 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with Ozil 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 to make runs 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 wide man has the ball, the wideman 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 - Ozil takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out inbetween 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 and 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 - Pjanic for Ozil - 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 - Keita for Radja and Coutinho for Salah - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Pjanic for Casemiro - Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing



70 Mins - Koulibaly, Firmino and Pjanic for Rose, Casemiro and Florenzi - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers.
posted on 30/9/17
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
posted on 30/9/17
----------------------Pollersbeck
Weiser--------Süle-----------Kempf------Plattenhardt
------------------Geis-----------Dahoud
--------Mahrez-------Ziyech-------------Pjaca
-----------------------Ibrahimovic
Subs:Hennessey, Stark, Biglia, Suárez, Forsberg, Milik, Isak
Our defensive unit consists of Niklas Süle and Marc-Oliver Kempf paired up at centre-back, Mitchell Weiser at right-back and Marvin Plattenhardt at left-back, with Johannes Geis and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Geis 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 Geis 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, Johannes Geis.
A holding midfielder through and through, Geis 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 Geis such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Riyad Mahrez, Hakim Ziyech and Marko Pjaca as our band of three attacking midfielders with Zlatan Ibrahimovic 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 Geis or Dahoud, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Weiser and Plattenhardt can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Geis and Dahoud can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Riyad Mahrez and Marko Pjaca, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Hakim Ziyech our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Ziyech 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 Pjaca, Mahrez or Ibrahimovic in via fast passing combinations.
Ibrahimovic is a formidable centre forward and he possesses 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
Milik on for Ibrahimovic and Forsberg on for Pjaca
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