BRUM VS stoke

---------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
-------------Bailly-------------Maguire---------Verthonghen-------------
-----------------------------------Goretzka----------------------------------------
Hysaj-----------Brozovic----------------Kessie--------------M Alonso
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------Vardy----------Mbappe--------------------------

Subs - Coleman, Mere, Sanson, Kampl, Balde Keita, Mario, Benteke

CAPTAIN - VERT
CK'S - BROZOVIC
FK'S - ALONSO
PENALTIES - MBAPPE

When we don't have possession of the ball in our half I want the whole team except Mbappe to get in our half and defend. Play a deep defensive line so that Stoke can't use their pacy forwards to beat the offside trap. When we win possession of the ball I want the players to play the long ball to Vardy/Mbappe, so they can use their pace to play off the oppo's shoulders and beat the offside trap. 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 Mbappe 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
Leon Goretzka
Goretzka will be covering for our Wingbacks when they are attacking. When the oppo wingers have the ball he will help our wingbacks against them and double up against them. He is very good on the ball aswell and can pick a pass out.

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 Mbappe and Vardy are very good at playing in between the lines.

Strikers
Mbappe + Vardy
I want Mbappe 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. Mbappe will be given freedom to drift over to the left wing and use his pace to target the Stoke RB from time to time.

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

-------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
------------Bailly------------Maguire---------Verthonghen--------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mario------------Kessie--------Brozovic --------------------Keita
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------Vardy-------Benteke-------Mbappe-----------------------


Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take off Vardy and put on Sanson in CM. Change formation to 361 ultra defensive with the defensive line getting even deeper.

-------------------------------Lafont -----------------------------------
---------------Bailly-------Maguire---------Verthonghen--------------
------------------------------Goretzka----------------------------------------
Hysaj-------Brozovic----Sanson-----Kessie---------Alonso
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------Mbappe------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Benteke ON for Mbappe
Sanson ON for Brozovic
Mario ON for Hysaj
Like for like changes just fresh legs to help the team.

-------------------- Ederson
Juanfran ---- Javi.M -- Tah ----- Ghoulam
------------ A.Rabiot ---- Vidal
--------------------- Eriksen
De Bruyne ---- Lewandowski --- A.Sanchez

Meret, Bellerin, Mendy, Wanyama, O.Dembele, Perisic, Mertens

Another huge game, at home and unbeaten so we’re confident going into this game and no better time to face a side like Leicester.

Go in with a side full of players with high workrate and energy, players that can contribute down both ends of the pitch and do their bit.

We expect a very possession oriented style from our opponets, so we tweak our formation slightly into a 4-3-3, congest the midfield and defensive areas and don’t give them an inch of space to play in. Dropping deeper when they are on the ball with 10 men, so we can condense the size of the pitch and neutralize the pace they have in forward areas.

Essential to our play is our mf 3, a trio that can cover quick ground and get from A to B within seconds. De Bruyne and Sanchez support our fullbacks and restrict overloads down the flanks, rigid and organised as a compact side and leaving no space to get in behind.

Throughout we will look to take the sting out of their possession game and force them backwards, cutting out passing lanes either side and making it extremely difficult to find a forward pass in build up, preventing them from playing with any urgency. Possesion without purpose won't hurt us.

In attack we need to be clinical, plenty off the ball movement and quick to break in numbers. Looking to hit them hard and fast before they can recover their defensive structure.

4-3-3: Attacking & Defensive wise:
It starts from the back. Ederson is very able with his hands and feet and should look to find our players in space.

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

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

When attacking, Rabiot 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.

Eriksen 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.

Defensively will look to work in a 3, looking to work in tandem with Rabiot and Vidal to close down quickly and cutting out passing lanes. At times sitting with Rabiot and allowing Vidal to make his trademark burst forwards to mix it up.

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

De Bruyne 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 fullbacks 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 fullbacks 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 Eriksen to run into beyond.

When Leicester 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. Vidal man-man their AM, looking to harass him and using his physical prowess to really put him off his game, Rabiot and Eriksen tracking runs and passing options off the ball.

Essentially a 4-5-1, five in in the middle working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wingers then tuck in to help our fullbacks to prevent any space being left in behind or outwide.

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. FB’s can come up to support the play and provide the width. The front 4 burst forward.

Subs:
IF WINNING: 70th minute – (4-3-3)
- Wanyama > Rabiot
- O.Dembele > Eriksen
Wanyama look to use his fresh energy to get about in midfield, De Bruyne moves to AM and O.Dembele comes on to attack the tiring FB.

IF DRAW: 70th minute – (4-1-4-1)
- Wanyama > Rabiot
- Perisic > Sanchez
- Mertens > Lewandowski (77th minute)
A compact 4-1-4-1 but always looking for the chance to counter and using our pace to get in behind.

- IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- Bellerin > Juanfran
- O.Dembele > De Bruyne
- Mertens > Eriksen
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 – De Bruyne
Pens – Lewandowski

Red card (4-4-1, defensive),
We sit deep with men behind the ball and look to play on the counter.
- Ederson, Eriksen off and Meret on
- FB's, Eriksen off and Bellerin (RB) or Mendy (LB) on
- CB's, Eriksen off and Bellerin/Mendy on/Juanfran to CB
- CM's, Eriksen off and Wanyama on
- Wingers, Eriksen off and O.Dembele (RW) or Perisic (LW) on
- ST, Eriksen off and Mertens on

ASTON VILLA

—————————— Oblak
Aurier — Alderweireld — Boateng — Luis
————————— N'Zonzi
—————— Modric — Partey
Robben————————————————— Reus
——————————— Cavani

SUBS: Mkhitaryan, Sokratis, Fabregas, Winks, Matic, Benzema, Marchisio

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


Spurs always set up very well and Fan is a proven winner. He'll probably set up in his usual shape. They're missing their star man Verratti today, meaning that we will take advantage and dominate the middle. We will have a lot of energy for ball recovery today in midfield today with Partey playing a key role in a 433. It is up to us to dominate the ball and create the amount of chances needed to win the game by playing on the front foot. I reckon if I can gain control of the middle of the pitch with my three in midfield I have a chance of blowing them off the park with our players playing their natural game. Partey's energy will be key today. I expect that when he gets the ball he picks his head up and finds a first time ball to our wide forwards. With the movement of my front three I hope to invite their defenders into making rash decisions. Mkhitaryan I'll look to bring off the bench this time because I'll need him to unlock their defence at a later time when Spurs are tired. All my front three players have goals in them. We need the win today to give us the momentum needed to help power us into the champions league places in the early stage of the season.

Defending

In terms of defending, it is important that we are aware of the threats posed by my team having the lions share of possession. Spurs will get chances on the counter, and while I believe that my team will pin them back for most of the match there are still going to be windows of opportunity of them when they have a spell of possession and on the counter. His attack can be pace merchants on the counter which can present an immense danger if not careful. In our case it is important that we are always aware of the possibility of that counter. I consider strikers and wingers the biggest threats, so when we are attacking in their third N'Zonzi will sit close to our centre halves making sure we are not too exposed. Special mention to Lukaku, he'll take some handling, and we hope that Alderweireld and Boateng can take turns in handling him. We will also have our full backs closely watch wide players, making sure not to get sucked into the middle and let the midfielders deal with anyone cutting inside. His wide players will likely be back defending anyway but their pace will carry them forwards very quickly. Once they show signs of counter attacking our full backs will fly back to stop them.

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

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

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

Attacking

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

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

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

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 Modric and have him in midfield in a 4-3-3.

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

80 - Benzema for Reus, same reason as above.

Drawing/Losing
65 - Clearly we need to change it up a bit, therefore we take off Partey and bring on Mkhitaryan to provide more penetration

75 - If we're still not winning, we bring on Marchisio for N'Zonzi, he'll sit at the base of midfield providing more creativity while being solid and holding the midfield together.

85 - We will bring on Benzema on for Reus and go 442 with Mkhi moving to the left, two strikers up front and Marchisio modric in the middle.

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

Everton v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

Injuries: Cancelo, Son, Digne, Moura

Ter Stegen
Mustafi - Pepe - Cahill
Trippier - A Herrera - Strootman - Hector
D Silva - R Sanches
Higuain

Subs: Rulli, Smalling, Milner, Jorginho, Cuadrado, Jese, Immobile

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

A tough but winnable game today away to Everton, 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 Hector 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. Everton 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/Hector - Both of you to force the Everton 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 Everton 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 Everton 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 Everton 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, Jorginho on. Switch to a 5-3-1-1 diamond, wingbacks drop to fullback, Jorginho joins Herrera and Strootman in front of them, with Sanches behind Higuain. Absorb the Everton pressure and hit them on the break.

If drawing: Strootman and Mustafi off, Cuadrado and Jese on. Change to 4-2-3-1, Tripper - Pepe - Cahill - Hector at the back, Herrera and Sanches in midfield, Cuadrado - Silva - Jese behind Higuain upfront. Push for the winner.

If losing: Mustafi, Pepe and Strootman off, Cuadrado, Jese and Immobile on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, Cancelo - Cahill - Hector, Herrera the playmaker, Cuadrado - D Silva - Sanches - Jese behind Higuain - Immobile upfront. Push for goals.

ttacking 4-3-3

At home and in good form, we look to play our usual game and take the game to Spurs, controlling possession with an energetic midfield trio. Control possession and find space in between the lines against this Spurs side. Get Thiago and Koke on the ball and looking to play killer balls to open up the opposition using the pace of our attacking trio. Working the ball wide out wide in the final third, attack their full backs.

Key to our attack is quick passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly. Pass and move. Tire the opposition out with our possession play. Predominantly short passing on the deck, but varying our play when a counter is on.

At the back, Otamendi gets the nod next to Ramos, in good form and as he knows how to keep Morata quiet, he man marks him. 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 Spurs's play.

Getting Koke and Thiago 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. Quick one twos between the two and the attacking trio and Marcelo,Azpi. Always looking to provide an option for your teamates.

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.

In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Spurs. One fb bombing forward at a time (usually Marcelo obv). The other fb advances ahead of the cbs but is more reserved and offers the option to switch going back the way. In the final third the wingers have freedom on the ball. Look to get away from their marker, central or wide wherever they can find space and get on the ball then get at their full back.


------------------------ Neuer
Azpilicueta - S.Ramos - Otamendi - Marcelo
------------------------ Kante
-------------- Thiago.A ------ Koke
Asensio --------------------------------- Hazard
----------------------- Ronaldo

Subs. Schmeichel, Musacchio, Blind, Danilo.P, Douglas Costa, Correa, Diego Costa

Defending in numbers

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

In a deep, narrow, rigid formation, we will look to 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.

We always keep one fb back. We have a quick defence and energy and pace in midfield to stop quick breaks.

As Spurs 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 pushing 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. Otamendi marks Morata. Ramos to sweep up, or man mark if they go two up.

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 seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game.

Thiago and Koke controlling the game in possession for us. Looking to find space between their defence and midfield, committing defenders from there and playing killer balls to our attacking trio.

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

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

Subs. If winning after 70 mins bring on Diego Costa for Ronaldo. Big man to come on and give their already tired cb nightmares.
If winning after 74 mins bring on Danilo for Koke. Bring fresh energy to cm and give the attackers more freedom. More power and pace to keep us on top in the centre as they likely push for an equaliser.
If winning after 78 mins bring on Douglas Costa for Asensio. Fresh pace.

If drawing after 70 mins bring on Douglas Costa for Koke. Asensio to cm. More attacking.
If drawing after 77 mins bring on Diego Costa for Hazard. Ronaldo left. Get the goal.
If drawing after 82 mins bring on Correa for Asensio. Correa left, Ronaldo up top. 4-4-2.

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 Correa for Marcelo. 3-3-4. Super sub

-----------------------Lloris
Clyne-----Hummels-----Godin-----Rose
--------------------Casemiro
--------------Keita--------Coutinho
Mane---------------------------------Salah
----------------------Suarez
Subs
Hart, Matip, Bertrand, Pjanic, Ozil, Firmino, Kane


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


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




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

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


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


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



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



Set Pieces


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





Free Kicks - Coutinho 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 Coutinho - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.




82 + 86 Mins - Firmino for Mane and Kane for Suarez - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.



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

If Losing



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

Vs Everton

————————Courtois
—Conti-——Lindelof—Umtiti-----Toljan
------------------Fabinho
Bernardeschi---Tolisso---Dybala------Carrasco
---------------------Icardi

Subs: Begovic, R.Pereira, Bentacur, Gagliardini, Bruma, Philipp, Belotti

Captain: Thibaut Courtois
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala/Fabinho
Corners: Corentin Tolisso
Penalties: Fabinho

We look to dominate possession from the off today by tucking our FBs infield and creating a bowl shaped defence with Fabinho occupying the space in the middle of it, FBs either side of him, allowing us to overload their attack 5 v 2 or 5 v 3. This allows for faster build up. We want no more than 2 players in any one vertical zone of the field to be in alignment, instead we will look to create diagonal passing lanes that are harder to press. To rectify the midfield mismatch the opposition will have to either tuck their wingers in(which then congests the field when they try and counter and opens up the wide areas for 1 v 1’s) or bring the first line of midfield forward to meet our FBs(giving their DM a harder job against Tolisso and Dybala).

As the ball progresses the back 5 push up with the rest of the team so that we can compact the field and overwhelm our opponents. They key to our attacking play today is the positioning of the FBs and wingers. We want the wingers pushed high and wide so that we can manipulate the opponents defensive shape, force their FBs right back so that they can't help defend the midfield area, limiting them to their deepest and widest position, isolating them 1 v 1. Keeping the FBs central alongside Fabinho means we have a 5 man central midfield to achieve quick vertical transitions, leaving three central 2nd passers who can see the game ahead of them. The main ploy being to push the ball side FB further forward into midfield where he can join Tolisso in overloading their most defensively gifted DM, creating one twos with Tolisso to bypass him, or even triangles with Fabinho if against a midfield five in order to draw two of the three CMs, with the aims of getting us higher up the field and not allowing their DM to run the game, as well as getting Dybala 1 v 1 against the weakest defensively in the opponents midfield. These three centrally also give the two AMs freedom to move around without leaving us short in midfield. The AMs can drift wide, either at the same time to opposite flanks, or together to the same flank where they can create overloads with the wingers and FBs, especially half space overloads if both drift to the same side, dragging their markers away and freeing up the other side of the field for the opposite FB to attack into, or creating chances on their side, or when they both go to opposite flanks at the same time opening up the space for Fabinho to step into and create for Icardi. They can drift one at a time to draw their marker away from the centre and create more central space for their partner. We look for constant movement from them so the opponents can never settle. Icardi and the wingers are there to occupy the defence, making sure they can't push up and help suffocate the midfield, keep them pinned back and focused on one job. If the opposition back line do try to push up, say a FB or a wide CB steps out, then the forwards must be on their toes, make runs into the space behind this defender, either a winger from out to in or Icardi off the shoulder of his own marker, they have 7 players behind them all capable of picking the pass if our opponents defence do break their shape to counter our overloads.

When we lose the ball, we try to win it back straight away, so we press high with intensity and urgency, but we do so with excellent organisation, splitting into 5 hunters and 5 organisers. When the ball is lost and goes to the FB/WB we put high pressure on him with a layered 1-2-2 press, looking to box them in down the flank. The nearest man to the ball goes to initiate the press, so usually the winger, whilst Icardi and the ball side AM form the next layer of press, cutting off the lateral options, so pass to the CB and DM, and ball side FB and 2nd AM the next layer, cutting off the vertical lanes to the winger/AM and advanced CM. Do not give them time to breath, let alone think about their options, straight onto him. The organisers all fall in to compact the shape of the team towards the flank, reforming a bowl around the attackers.

When we lose the ball in the middle, the organisers have a simple job, they retain the bowl shape that we use to build up in, Fabinho operating in the middle of the bowl defence, put a blanket over the forwards and insure they are easy to stop in 5 v 3s. The hunters then look to press the ball, if the CBS have it Icardi presses, arching his run to block the ball to the other Cb(s) with Dybala and Tolisso pushed right onto the CMs so they can't get the ball with any time or space, or if the CMs have it, Dybala and Tolisso pressing and Icardi arching his run behind them so they can't go backwards, whilst the wingers tuck in slightly into the half spaces, suffocating the man on the ball so that they don't feel like they can run with it through the middle, or pass out to the WBs/FBs. Make them rush it towards the forwards, or play a loose pass that we can get to first and counter decisively.

At times when they do force us deep, we defend in a flat 4-4-2, Tolisso alongside Fabinho, FBs narrow to CBs, make sure there is no space between the lines or between each other, and the two forwards block any balls into the DM or wide defenders so they can't act as playmakers.

Subs:

If Winning: Belotti for Icardi 70', stronger hold up play and great pressing. Gagliardini for Tolisso 75', fresh legs in midfield. Bentacur for Dybala 80', more defensive minded to keep us solid in midfield.

If Drawing: Philipp for Bernardeschi 70', looks to get between defenders and run behind the opposition. Belotti for Icardi 75', gives the midfield something different to work around, Belotti holds the ball and finds his team mates, we can also try more crosses from wide. Gagliardini for Conti 80', Fabinho to RB and Gagliardini into midfield to find the more cutting passes.

If Losing: Belotti and Gagliardini for Conti and Tolijan 60', 3-4-1-2 with Dybala behind the front two and Bernardeschi and Carrasco keeping high and wide. Tolisso and Gagliardini will stay deeper, wide CBs pushing into midfield when the attack is on their side(Fabinho and Umtiti) in order to keep our midfield overload. Philipp for Bernardeschi 70', fresh legs in attack.

BRUM VS Newcastle

-----------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
------------Bailly-----------Maguire---------Verthonghen-------------
--------------------------------Goretzka----------------------------------------
Hysaj----------Brozovic---------------Sanson---------------M Alonso
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------Llorente------------Keita--------------------------

Subs - Coleman, Mere, Iborra, Kampl, Sterling, Mario, M Dembele

CAPTAIN - VERT
CK'S - BROZOVIC
FK'S - ALONSO
PENALTIES - LLORENTE

When we don't have possession of the ball in our half I want the whole team except Keita to get in our half and defend. Play a deep defensive line so that Newcastle can't use their pacy forwards to beat the offside trap. When we win possession of the ball I want the players to play the long ball to Llorente/Keita, Llorente so he can use his physical strength to hold the ball up and a lofted long ball for Keita so he can use his pace to play off the oppo's shoulders and beat the offside trap. Sanson 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 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
Leon Goretzka
Goretzka will be covering for our Wingbacks when they are attacking. When the oppo wingers have the ball he will help our wingbacks against them and double up against them. He is very good on the ball aswell and can pick a pass out. Look for a quick pass out or dribble out of danger if you win the ball back.

Centre Mids
Brozovic + Sanson
Sanson main job is to use his quickness and interception 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 Sanson 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.

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 Llorente and Keita are very good at playing in between the lines.

Strikers
Llorente + Keita
I want Llorente to be the 'target man' and use his top hold up play to bring others into the game. Be ready for crosses into the box as heading is your strongest point. Use your height advantage over the oppo CB's to win the headers. Keita will look to use his pace to play off the oppo shoulders and beat the offside trap. He will be given freedom to drift over to the left wing and use his pace to target the Newcastle RB from time to time.

Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Change formation to 343. Bring on Sterling for Alonso and Mario for Hysaj. Dembele on for Goretzka aswell. Play a very high line and try and get a goal.

-------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
------------Bailly------------Maguire---------Verthonghen--------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mario------------Sanson--------Brozovic--------------------Sterling
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------Keita-------Llorente-------Dembele-----------------------


Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take off Keita and put on Iborra in CM. Change formation to 361 ultra defensive with the defensive line getting even deeper.

-------------------------------Lafont -----------------------------------
---------------Bailly-------Maguire---------Verthonghen--------------
------------------------Goretzka-------Iborra---------------------------------
Hysaj-------------Brozovic------------Sanson--------------Alonso
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------Llorente------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Sterling ON for Keita
Kampl ON for Brozovic
Mario ON for Hysaj
Like for like changes just fresh legs to help the team.

ASTON VILLA 4-3-3

Captain: Marco Reus
Penalties: Marco Reus
Corners: Cesc Fabregas
Freekicks: Cesc Fabregas
Crossing Freekick: Cesc Fabregas

—————————— Oblak
Walker — Alderweireld — Sokratis — Luis
————————— N'Zonzi
—————— Fabregas — Modric
Mkhitaryan————————————————— Reus
——————————— Benzema

SUBS: Jones, Davies, Dembele, Chesney, Matic, Bernardo, Cavani


We’ll Gegenpress the opposition like Liverpool in real life and win the ball as close to their goal as possible or move the ball up the pitch towards the opposition’s goal quickly. My 4-3-3 will overload his midfield and pin back his wing backs. We’ll use the quickness of our one touch, short passing game and using the pace & dribbling ability of the attacking players. However when the opposition get close to our box, we will revert to a defensive block to limit their chances. We defend and attack as a collective unit, limiting the space between the lines in which the opposition plays in.

Today we will start with Fabregas in midfield to keep the ball rolling and take advantage of his penetrative passes.

When in attack we will get forward in numbers, using the footballing intelligence & movement of our attacking midfielders & striker to create passing angles and overloads in the opposition’s area of the pitch both out wide and in central zones, looking to drag the opposition’s players out of position and exploiting the space they leave open. When the opposition is using a deep defensive block to shut out our team we will use our fullbacks to create numbers out wide to stretch the opposition (this will be assisted by our CDM splitting the CBs wider allowing the FBs to move up the pitch) simultaneously using our wide-forward to cut inside to create overloads in the central areas giving us a number advantage. When creating chances from the wide areas with the FBs or WFs, we will send crosses in to feed the other forwards. Making runs behind the defence and beyond the striker is not prohibited by our attacking and central midfielders (minus CDM). There is a lot freedom in the movement of our attacking players. No player is restricted to a specific zone on the field or specific task. All four attackers (Reus, Mkhi, Fabregas, Benzema) will either be provider or finisher with Modric providing the support needed and N'zonzi anchoring the midfield and supporting the centre backs. We want to make our style of play effective & deadly when in long spells of possession. Shooting from outside the box is encouraged. Our players will also gegenpress constantly from the front when we lose possession of the ball.

Offensive & Defensive Transitions:

This is the player's movements & reactions when moving between defence and attack, importantly the movement of the ball as this is arguably the most important aspect of our game. Winning the ball back when your opposition is disorganized is the perfect moment. We will aim for rapid movement up the pitch, with progressive passing to exploit the space left by the opposition. Whether it is from our defensive third of the pitch or whether we have won the ball back in our attacking third of the pitch we will exploit the disorganization of the opposition. We expect most of our attacking play will be as a result of our aggressive high press so we will use the following triggers for pressing the opponent:

1. The ball is played to a player facing his own goal

2. The ball is played to a player against the sidelines (using the sideline as an extra man in our favour)

3. A difficult bouncing ball is played to a player facing his own goal.

When any of these triggers happen, the players closest to the ball will press quickly and another 2 or 3 players will hold off slightly adding depth to the press and closing down their easy option pass. Once we win possession of the ball, we break in numbers again exploiting the opposition with either the pace of our attack. We also understand that we won't always get it right when pressing the opposition so we will employ a 10-second rule on pressing from the front after which, if we did not win back possession, we will revert to our defensive block. If we don’t win the ball after our initial phase of pressing it's imperative that the players work their way back into our defensive zone of the pitch and close the space that the opposition will look to play in. Close the space quickly and look to frustrate the opposition with intelligent positioning and hard tackling before winning the ball back and breaking forward at rapid speed. We will compact the central zones and force the opposition wide which limits the chances of breaking through our midfield. Long diagonal balls and quick releases from deep are encouraged when the opportunity arises. Our forwards have the pace to run onto through-balls.

We go into our defensive block if we cannot win the ball through our pressing. As a team we will defend deep in our half and close the space in the middle of the pitch. When forcing the opposition closer to the touchlines, we will use the touch line as an extra-man and press them so that we can win possession and result in us outnumbering them. If the play is on the left of the field the team will move towards the left and squeeze the space and vice versa on the right. We will try to force our opponents to play hopeful crosses into our box where we have towering CBs who are great at dealing with crosses. If a cross is coming from their right our LB will also move into the box to help deal with crosses and vice versa if the cross is coming from the left. The midfielders will be around the box pressing the opponent should they try to play it central. Our wide forwards will help the midfield in closing the space in the centre and then proceed to help the fullback after we have moved the opponent towards the touchline. The wide-forwards are the real work horses in the team and I have 2 very good, hard-working wide-forwards. Our striker will also drop into our half to help the midfield press the opposition’s defence. Also the reasoning behind dropping the striker deep is to draw the opponent’s defence away from their goal creating ample space for us to counter attack.

Substitutions:

If winning after 80 mins bring on Dembele for Fabregas. More physical presence in midfield, and gives greater defensive cover.

If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Bernardo for Modric. Fresh creativity and legs. Fabregas will drop back to CM to control the game while Bernardo will push up into the 10 role from behind Benzema and really provide him with support.

If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Cavani for Fabregas. N'Zonzi will press higher to win the ball back quickly. Cavani with more goal threat, plays up front with Benzema, with Bernardo playing behind them.

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

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v Stoke City

Injuries: Hector, Cuadrado, Kenedy, Rooney

Ter Stegen
Mustafi - Pepe - Cahill
Cancelo - A.Herrera - Strootman - Digne
D.Silva - R.Sanches
Higuain

Subs: Rulli, Trippier, Mathieu, Jorginho, Son, Lucas, Immobile

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

A tough but winnable game today at home to Stoke, 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, Cancelo 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. Stoke 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.

Cancelo/Digne - Both of you to force the Stoke 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 Stoke 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 Stoke 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 Stoke 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, Jorginho on. Switch to a 5-3-1-1 diamond, wingbacks drop to fullback, Jorginho joins Herrera and Strootman in front of them, with Sanches behind Higuain. Absorb the Stoke pressure and hit them on the break.

If drawing: Strootman and Mustafi off, Lucas and Son on. Change to 4-2-3-1, Cancelo - 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.

---------------------------Horn
Weiser--------Süle-----------Kempf------Guerreiro
------------------Geis-----------Dahoud
--------Mahrez-------Ziyech-------------Pjaca
-----------------------Ibrahimovic

Subs: Pollersbeck, Stark, Plattenhardt, Biglia, Suárez, Forsberg, Milik


Our defensive unit consists of Niklas Süle and Marc-Oliver Kempf paired up at centre-back, Mitchell Weiser at right-back and Raphaël Guerreiro 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 Guerreiro 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

----------------------- De Gea -----------------------
Carvajal ---- Bonucci ---- Manolas ---- A.Sandro
------------- S.Khedira ---- Busquets --------------
Callejon ---------- Griezmann ----------- Mbappe
----------------------- Aguero ------------------------

Gudino, Danilo, Sanchez, Ceballos, Paredes, Alli, G.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. 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.

Bonucci in beside Manolas, on this occassion Manolas will man mark the CF. 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, watch the strikers movement at all times, even when he is no where near the ball in case of any breakaways. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Bonucci alongside is fantastic in the air, so will mark any other players that come into our danger area, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger. A clever player who can intercept attacks very quickly before they begin and he does this with great effect and simply takes the ball away from attackers. If he has to help his defensive partner with 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. 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, 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.

Always stay focussed when defending, stay as a 4 to leave as little gaps as possible for the opposition to get through.

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 opposition 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 Mbappe 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

Mbappe 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 Mbappe, 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.

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

Subs

Losing -
70 Mins - Jesus for Aguero, go 442 with Griezmann up top with him
80 Mins - Sanchez for Carvajal, Alli for Sandro
Sanchez - Bonucci - Manolas
Callejon Khedira Busquets Mbappe
Alli
Jesus Griezmann

more direct and really have a go

Winning -
70 Mins - Paredes for Aguero, Griezmann up top, Paredes to the left of Busquets to shore up the midfield
80 Mins - Jesus for Griezmann to run at everything

Drawing -
70 Mins - Jesus for Aguero, Ceballos for Khedira, he will try and open it up for the fresh legs up top
80 Mins - Alli for Griezmann

------------------------- Butland -------------------------
S.Aurier ----- Kompany ----- van Dijk ----- D.Sidibe
------------- Marchisio ---------- Bakayoko ------------
------------------------ M.Verratti -----------------------
Willian ------------------------------------------- L.Sane
-------------------------- Morata -------------------------

Forster, Kolarov, Zagadou, James, Hakan, B.Traore, Merino


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.

Aurier 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. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. 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 and 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 a very industrious pairing in the middle, Bakayoko 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! Bakayoko himself will look to pass forward to the more creative players when he gathers from defence and looks by doing this it will look to drive us forward. Marchisio will go v the second most advanced midfielder or anyone else that is around that area. Even tho Bakayoko has the man marking role Marchisio 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 Marchisio in particular will get us moving forward from the centre as he pushes up to bring our forwards into the game. When they have then close down the CM, he will look to ping the ball about so get to him before that opportunity arises. We have put Verratti moves slightly further forward into a 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 Morata, he must support Morata as best he can and the two must link up very well, very quickly, Verratt I want to press the DM as he will possibly be looking to dictate from deep, if Verratti can do this hopefully it will stop a lot of attacks coming our direction. All three are good all round midfielders, But Bakayoko i want to sit in the hole with the two either side when defending. I want our defence and midfield shutting down everything quickly, even if its high up the pitch, we don't give them time on the ball to get it to their dangerous front three.

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 Verratti 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 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.Morata 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 Verratti and the wingers. 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 with hopefully a few crosses coming in he can get up and above defenders for. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Sane, Willian and Verratti will be making his runs also so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side if he cant go for goal himself. But especially look for Verratti as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.

Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Morata
Free kicks - Verratti
Corners - Wingers

Subs -

Losing -70 Mins - Hakan for Willian, James for Marchisio same formation, James switches for Verratti as he drops deeper
80 Mins - B.Traore for Sidibe, 3 at the back and Traore up top with Morata

Winning -
70 Mins - Merino for MArchisio fresh legs in midfield, Verratti drops into a 3 man mid
80 Mins - Kolarov for Sane, he and Willian make a midfield 5
85 MMins - Troare for Morata to run at everything and cklose the clock down

Drawing -
70 Mins - Hakan for Willian, James for Marchisio(switch with Verratti)
80 Mins - Traore for Morata

Brighton

--------------------Cech---------------------
Soares-------Glik-------Luiz--------Bernat
---------Riedewald----Kondogbia----------
Walcott----------Payet------------A.Iwobi
-------------------Falcao---------------------

Subs: Gunn, Holding, Nasri , Ramsey, Gabbiadini, Redmond, Paco


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

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

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

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

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

Positional Tactics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subs
Losing - Gabbiadini for Iwobi 442 with Payet to LM
Winning - Ramsey for Payet sit in a bit
Drawing - Redmond for Iwobi and Gabbiadini for Falcao

Rico
Bernardo Diop Gnagnon Jorge
Cyprien Diawara Soler
Malcom Martial Saint-Maximin

Substitutes: Dragowski; Elvedi; Passlack; Kovacic; Jankto; Boschilia; Oneyruku

Captain: Rico
Penalties: Martial
Corners: Soler
Free Kicks: Malcom

Game Plan:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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


Substitutions:

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

75 minutes: Oneyruku for Martial - Fresh pace.

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

-------------------- Ederson
Juanfran ---- Javi.M --- Laporte -- Ghoulam
------------ Wanyama --- Vidal
--- O.Dembele ----------------- A.Sanchez
-------- Lewandowski --- Werner

Meret, Bellerin, Mendy, Rabiot, De Bruyne, Perisic, Mertens

Still unbeaten and in good form so we go again confident of getting a result today.

A slight change in formation as we go in with a 4-2-2-2, intensively pressing from the front with our attacking quadrant and then forming a rigid block behind the ball pressing the space.

Werner comes into the side, very good at pressing aggressively in forward areas and also a excellent focal point in attack and in and around the box.

Onus is on not allowing Chelsea to play, press them to go long from the back and contest possession. We feel they lack aerial presence throughout the side and more so further up field.

2nd phase of our defensive game is to congest the midfield and defensive areas. Dropping deeper if they are on the ball with 11 men, so we can condense the size of the pitch and neutralize the pace they have in forward areas.

Midfield duo work tactically to break up play and disrupt the rhythm of the game, allow us to keep our structure at all times with numbers back. Never afraid to commit a 'clever' foul in mf zones to prevent a overload or to allow us to get back.

In attack we need to be clinical, plenty of movement and off the ball runs. Keep them guessing with a mixture of possession based play and long balls into our front two, transitioning from defence to attack in a heartbeat.

Plenty of width and link up play, create holes in their backline and get our wingers driving from deep.

4-3-3: Attacking & Defensive wise:
It starts from the back. Ederson is very able with his hands and feet and should look to find our players in space.

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

Wanyama and Vidal, a midfield pair that will provide plenty of energy and will work their socks off for the side to allow others around them to express themselves. 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.

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

Lewandowski and Werner have big roles today, very prolific and great killer instinct but strikers that influence the play even without the ball at their feet. They should look to come deep often and link with others, hold up play and take the CB, opening up the game and space for our wingers to run into beyond.

When Chelsea are in possession we will initially look to press from the front with our quadrant and then drop off with men behind the ball if they bypass. Force them into playing long from the back ensuring they can't play their possession based game on the deck, isolate their focal point in attack.

We then 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. Vidal man-man their AM, looking to harass him and using his physical prowess to really put him off his game, Wanyama tracking runs and passing options off the ball.

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

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

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

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

Subs:
IF WINNING: 70th minute – (4-3-3)
- Rabiot > Werner
- Perisic > Sanchez
Rabiot look to work in a mf 3, using his work rate and ticking things over when on the ball, Perisic fresh energy and burst of pace down the flanks.

IF DRAW: 70th minute – (4-2-3-1)
- De Bruyne > Werner
- Rabiot > Wanyama
- Mertens > Lewandowski (77th min)
Compact 4-2-3-1, De Bruyne moves central and Dembele on the flanks. Rabiot gets himself about, Mertens clinical.

IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- De Bruyne > Vidal
- Mertens > Werner
- Perisic > A.Sanchez
3 changes, freshen things up. very direct.
Get the ball into the box and look for an equalizer/winner.

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

Arsenal @ Hull City Tigers

Injuries: Traore, Simeone, Vidal, De Vrij


…………………………………………Buffon……………………………….
Candreva…………Marquinhos….…Romagnoli….….Rodriguez
……………………………………….Rodri………………………………………..
………………………….Matudi……………..Hamsik……………………….
Mboula…………………….Aubameyang………………….Lallana

Subs: Scuffet, De Sciglio, Rugani, Neves, Mandzukic, Berardi, Howedes


Tough away game against an ever improving Hill City side, Zlatan is their stand-out man but his ageing body and knackered legs can’t carry a side forever

We go to Hull switching to a 4-3-3 looking to control the midfield area, hold onto possession and take the sting out of the game.

I know Candreva isn’t a RB – but he plays WB well enough for Italy so with him and Rodriguez on the left we do have genuine balance.

Buffon even though age is catching him up, still retains the #1 shirt, a great leader of men will instil our inside with confidence, cool calm and collected.

Candreva and Rodders are given free licence to push on, we want to retain the ball so they move up with our midfield, we want nice fluid passing triangles as we transition together from defence to attack – Both are men are behind players that like to cut inside so these two will gives us the width to really stretch this Hull back-line.

Marquinhos and Romagnoli are two very talented youngsters – tough call to keep Zlatan quiet but they can double him up, try and wind the fiery swede up and get him entrenched in a personal battle, rather than him doing his thing for the team – they both have the pace to cover him so I want Roma just off him and Marquinhos just in front trying to cut the ball out to feet, Yes Ibra can bring a ball down but it’s not the best way to build an attack.
Rodri is our anchor man, a clever player will sit infront of our backline keeping things ticking over nicely – as I say possession is key, If hull don’t have the ball they can’t score.
Hamsik and Matuidi will both play B-2-B, giving us heavy pressure through the middle forcing Hull to rush their passes and giving us a higher chance of possession turnovers in the final third.

Mboula is very raw but there’s a lot of potential there, quick and direct will look to get the ball down and run at his man, will cut inside as Candreva will occupy the attacking width.
Lallana over on the left isn’t a natural winger but he’s a very clever player who links the play nicely as well as bringing huis share of goals, with Rodriguez a naturally attacking FB, Lallana can come inside and link the play with Hamsik to try and set Auba through on goal.

Auba, the focal point of the team, he’s more than just a pace abuser but we will look to play to this particular strength by manoeuvring Hulls defence about to get him through one on one.


Subs 65 mins.

Mandzukic > Rodri……Matuidi goes DM, Lallana CM and Mandy LW
Berardi > Mboula

…………………………………………Buffon……………………………….
Candreva…………Marquinhos….…Romagnoli….….Rodriguez
……………………………………….Matuidi………………………………………..
………………………….Lallana……………..Hamsik……………………….
Berardi…………………….Aubameyang………………….Mandy

Rico
Passlack - N.Elvedi - Gnagnon - Jorge
Kovacic - Diawara - Cyprien
T.Lemar - Rashford - Martial

Dragowski, Chilwell, Bernardo, M.Lopez, Malcolm, Maximin, Onyekuru

Captain: Rico
Penalties: Martial
Corners: Kovacic
Free Kicks: Kovacic

Game Plan:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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


Substitutions:
Losing
70 Mins - Malcolm for Cyrien, Malcolm to the RW and Lemar to AM
80 Mins - Maximin for Jorge 3412, Martial up top, Maximin to the left

Winning -
70 Mins - Bernardo for Lemar and sit back, Chilwell for Martial and do the same on the left
80 Mins - Maximin for Rashford

Drawing
70 Mins - Bernardo for Passlack, M.Lopez for Kovacic, Maximin for Martial

Above for Stoke

Brighton

Trapp
Cedric - K.Glik - Zouma - Bernat
Riedewald - A.Ramsey
Walcott - Payet - A.Iwobi
Falcao

Gunn, Holding, Prowse, Nasri, Redmond, Gabbiadini, Paco


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

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

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

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

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

Positional Tactics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subs
Losing -
70 Mins - Gabbiadini for Iwobi 442 with Payet to LM, Paco for Falcao

Winning -
70 Mins - Prowse for Iwobi, go into midfield and Payet to the left
80 Mins - Redmond for Walcott

Drawing
70 Mins - Prowse for Ramsey, Redmond for Iwobi, Gabbiadini for Falcao

----------------------- De Gea -----------------------

Carvajal ---- Bonucci ---- Manolas ---- A.Sandro

-------- Ceballos -- Busquets -- P.Pogba ---------

Mbappe ----------- Griezmann ----------- Neymar

Heaton, Danilo, Pellegrini, Alli, Callejon, Jesus, Aguero

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

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. 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, even tho we want quick passing our build up is patient as we await for the opportunity to strike

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

Bonucci in beside Manolas, on this occassion Manolas will man mark the CF. 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, watch the strikers movement at all times, even when he is no where near the ball in case of any breakaways. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Bonucci alongside is fantastic in the air, so will mark any other players that come into our danger area, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger. A clever player who can intercept attacks very quickly before they begin and he does this with great effect and simply takes the ball away from attackers. If he has to help his defensive partner with 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. 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.

We go with a midfield 3 of Ceballos, Busquets and Pogba, all three with fantastic defensive attributes as well as being good on the attack, when we defend they will work together to shut there midfield going man for man, Busquets will pick up the most advanced midfielder, the second most advanced will be picked up by one of the other two depending what side he goes to thus allowing our 3rd player to be free to close down the DM if he decideds to roam , they will close down everything very quickly and not allow there players any time on the ball whatsoever, once the ball is won, then Ceballos/Pogba will drive forward leaving Busquets to sit in and depending on which fullback is attacking Ceballos/Pogba will cover for the marauding fullbacks who will drive on into support the front three, once the fullbacks have gone passed our midfield must look to play them in tfor us to have numbers done the side of the pitch, they all have impressive workrate so if the ball is lost they track back and provide a formidible barrier for them to try and break down. they all have a great eye for a pass so look to control things and pass about with ease looking for the break, especially Ceballos who will look to control things in the centre, alot will go through him so others will make sure they are ready for a pass to feet from him, they can shoot from a variety of angles. look out for Neymar and Mbappe coming inside and put some nice crisp through balls into them and Griezmann and the wingers cutting in. Quick passing from the three as to not be shut down by the opposition midfielders.

Mbappe and Neymar both quick with nimble feet which more often than not takes them passed the fullback, wether they knock it passed them and drive on or simple a quick turn, and there away. Will have fullbacks supporting them so this allows them to pass and cut inside where both are very useful. Give and go, wait for the return and go for goal, or look to drive into the box in support of Griezmann. Neymar focusses more on the tricks and twists to see him passed, whereas Mbappe likes to make the pass that gives him time to look for space for him to drive into and use the CMs and wait for the return. Also alot of the time Carvajal and Sandro will be up so they will be troublesome for the fullbacks. . When defending look to get back and stop there defenders becoming a threat. Like said they support the defenders when they have the ball and the defenders support them when we attack.

Griezmann will get plenty chances, he must put away this side who will be solid at the back. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Our forwards must hit them with pace and look to run them ragged with there movement. Griezmann is surprisingly good in the air and two good feet, can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front three will be a threat today we must go for it. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Neymar and Mbappe running into support. With others (Ceballos/Pogba/FB's)making dangerous runs into the area also. Griezmann also tracks back and works hard for the team, dropping back to support or indeed looking to go for the ball as he does this we still have Mbappe and Neymar ahead of him as he turns and gets his head up.

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

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

Losing

70 Mins - Aguero and Jesus for Griezmann and Pogba 442
80 Mins - Callejon for Sandro, 3 at the back Callejon to RW and Mbappe up front in an attacking 343

Winning -
70 Mins - Aguero for Mbappe, Griezmann to the right as he works harder to support the fullback and Aguero to CF
80 Mins - Danilo for Pogba to had a bit of steel to the midfield late on

Drawing -
70 Mins - Aguero for Pogba he goes up top and Griezmann to No.10
80 Mins - Callejon for Mbappe, and Jesus for Griezmann

Arsenal vs pompey

Injuries:
Pablo Maffeo, Matthew Targett, Blaise Matuidi, Daniele Rugani


…………………………………………..Buffon………………………………….
…………………..Marquinhos……De Vrij…….Romagnoli………………
Candreva…………….….Lallana.……….Benassi……………….Rodriguez
……………………………………………Hamsik……………………………………
…………………………..Berardi…………………..Aubameyang……………..

Subs: Pickford, De Sciglio, Howedes, Neves, Lo Celso, Mandzukic, Rodri

Tough game in a bit of a ridiculous season for Arsenale. Tino Bambino must surely be on thin ice with the fans as they go from one catastrophe to the next.

Pompey are a great unit and up there with the very best in the league

Going back to our 3-5-2 today looking to get a foothold in the game and control the central areas of the park, sacrifice the wider areas but they can’t hurt us out there.

Playing without a pure DM today can be seen as risky but Benassi and Lallana both put a shift in and with Hamsik another hard worker we have the energy to be able to press the ball, but retain enough skill in the side to be able to use it cleverly when we get our turnovers.

Marqunhos and Romagnoli will drift wide, I want them on the ball hitting those long diagonals as we look to turn this Pompey team and get them running at their own goal. Candreva and Rodriguez will be on their bikes as soon as we win possession, getting forwards and into space trying to stretch the pompey back-line. De Vrij is the man to mark Pompey’s central striker, big strong and pretty quick he can cope with most styles of play.

Lallana and Benassi are a pairing they move forwards and backwards together, we want them pressing the ball carrier, get tight and it cuts out the simple offloads, added to Hamsik harrying from behind and we should be able to enforce some nice turnovers. Both are clever heads up players, that will keep the ball moving.

Hamsik is back as our #10, clever player always manages to find some space to weave his magic, he’ll operate between the lines, drawing men to him before setting our front-two free on goal.

Berardi comes infield today yes I know he operates wide but his scoring record is comparible to a top striker, want him splitting RB and RCB, so he can run across them and use that hammer-like left peg to its brutal efficiency. Auba will mirror him by splitting LB and LCB.


Subs: if the redcard is ours then Berardi is the sacrificial lamb

If it’s Auba or Berardi no sub
Hamsik/Benassi/Lallana then bring on Lo celso

Candreva/Rodriguez then bring on De Sciglio
One of the CB’s bring on HOwedes
Buffon bring on Pickford


If the red isn’t in our game

70 mins
Neves > Benassi
Mandy > Berardi

—————————Courtois
—Conti——Christensen—Umtiti——Toljan—
—————————Fabinho
———————————Tielemans
Carrasco———Dybala———————Philipp
—————————Belotti

Subs: Begovic, Lindelof, Gagliardini, Milinkovic-Savic, P.Sisto, A.Zivkovic, Icardi

Captain: Thibaut Courtois
Corners: Youri Tielemans
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala(shot)/Fabinho(cross)
Penalties: Andrea Belotti

We look to use our movement today to establish possession and break their press. Fabinho will look to position himself between the first and 2nd line, so behind the striker, manipulating the strikers position. A CB will accompany this move by bringing the ball out from the back to provoke the press. We can provoke pressure by then playing it to the FB, who will then move the ball back to the CB and like this we draw out the opposition press. Tielemans will then drop back in looking to create numerical superiority with which we can pass through the opposition lines and establish possession in their half, either with his movement into half spaces for the CB to find him, or out to link quickly with the FB in the wider areas, creating triangles between himself the FB and Fabinho.

As the ball progresses the back 5 push up with the rest of the team, FBs narrowing to Fabinho to form a bowl around their 3 forwards so that we can compact the field and overwhelm our opponents. The inverted position of the FBs and the wide positioning of the wingers is key to our game today. Wingers pushed high and wide so that we can manipulate the opponents defensive shape, force their FBs right back so that they can't help defend the midfield area, limiting them to their deepest and widest position, isolating them 1 v 1. Inverted FBs in the midfield line means we have a 5 man central midfield to achieve quick vertical transitions and overloads, leaving three central 2nd passers/runners who can see the game ahead of them, as well as a line of cover that allow Tielemans and Dybala to run the game and advance as they wish. Tielemans will be creator in chief today, we want him moving towards the flanks and drawing the Stoke press towards him, either the winger dropping back to close him down, leaving the FBs free to then overlap beyond Tielemans and double up on the FB with our wingers, or drawing a CM out to the flank and leaving the FBs to make underlapping runs through the central and half spaces. He can also drop deeper to pull the Stoke midfield forward, creating space for FBs and Dybala to run into the opposition blind spots. Using Tielemans to draw players out of their comfort zones will force others to then have to track runners in positions they are not comfortable, breaking Stokes structure. Dybala will be in a free role, playing between the lines and in the half spaces in the final third, when Tielemans pulls Stoke towards him, Dybala runs into the vacated space and makes things happen, he knows that behind him he has 6 players capable of finding him if he can get into good space. Belotti and the wingers are there to occupy the defence, making sure they can't push up and help suffocate the midfield, keep them pinned back and focused on one job. If the opposition back line do try to push up, then the forwards must be on their toes, make runs into the space behind them, either a winger from out to in or Belotti off the shoulder of his own marker, all are good in quick link ups meaning they can link with any of the 7 players behind them, quick one two’s or runs into free spaces. Mainly looking to attack them in the flanks today, so our opposite side winger will be looking to get between CB and FB as much as he can.

When we lose the ball, we try to win it back straight away, so we press high with intensity and urgency, but we do so with excellent organisation, splitting into 5 hunters and 5 organisers. When the ball is lost and goes to the FB/WB we put high pressure on him with a layered 1-2-2 press, looking to box them in down the flank. The nearest man to the ball goes to initiate the press, so usually the winger, whilst Belotti and the ball side AM/CM form the next layer of press, cutting off the lateral options, so pass to the CB and DM, and ball side FB and 2nd AM/CM the next layer, cutting off the vertical lanes to the winger and advanced CM. Do not give them time to breath, let alone think about their options, straight onto him. The organisers all fall in to compact the shape of the team towards the flank, reforming a bowl around the attackers.

When we lose the ball in the middle, the organisers have a simple job, they retain the bowl shape that we use to build up in, only this time Tielemans will drop in alongside Fabinho, with these pushing up to surround the forwards and advanced CMs. The four remaining hunters then look to press the ball, they create a suffocating block around the opposition build up, Belotti harrying the CBs and the wingers tucking into the half spaces, with the effect of blocking to CBs vertical passing lanes, whilst keeping close enough to the FBs to get out to them quickly if the ball moves wide. Dybala in the defensive phase sits on the DM, keeping him out of the build up phase forces the opponents CBs to offer the creativity whilst they are being pressured by our front 3. If the ball is moved vertically from here, our 6 organisers are well positioned to make interceptions, and if it goes diagonally wide from here we have Tielemans and Fabinho who will both be quickly across to their flank to cut off the passes, allowing our defence to keep its shape.

At times when they do force us deep, we defend in a flat 4-4-2, FBs narrow to CBs, make sure there is no space between the lines or between each other, and the two forwards block any balls into the DM.

Subs:

If Winning: Gagliardini for Tielemans 70’, fresh legs in midfield. Sisto for Philipp 75’, fresh legs and a chance for the returning Sisto to show us how much he’s come on. Savic for Dybala 80’, on to break up play in the middle.

If Drawing: Icardi and Savic for Belotti and Tielemans 70’, Savic more powerful runner through the midfield and Icardi will look to run in behind tiring defenders, one moments lapse from them and he is lethal. Sisto for Philipp 75’, fresh pace to run at tiring players.

If Losing: Gagliardini for Tielemans 60’, allows Conti and Toljan to push right up the field almost as WBs, allowing our wingers to become inside forwards in the half spaces, Fabinho and Gagliardini will hold the midfield and cover the wider areas if the ball is countered in this direction. Icardi for Philipp 70’, Dybala goes to the left and Icardi will play up front with Belotti. Sisto for Toljan 80’, overlapping Dybala to create more room for our star man.

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


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


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




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

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


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


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



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



Set Pieces


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





Free Kicks - Pjanic takes Direct FK's



For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners





Penalties - Suarez is the designated taker.

Subs



If Winning


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




82 + 86 Mins - Coutinho for Pjanic and Florenzi for Di Maria - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.



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

If Losing



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

BRUM VS Wolves

-----------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
------------Bailly-----------Maguire---------Verthonghen-------------
--------------------------------Goretzka----------------------------------------
Hysaj----------Brozovic---------------Kessie---------------M Alonso
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------Benteke------------Keita--------------------------

Subs - Coleman, Mere, Iborra, Bellarabi, Sterling, Mario, M Dembele

CAPTAIN - VERT
CK'S - BROZOVIC
FK'S - ALONSO
PENALTIES - KEITA

When we don't have possession of the ball in our half I want the whole team except Keita to get in our half and defend. Play a deep defensive line so that Newcastle can't use their pacy forwards to beat the offside trap. When we win possession of the ball I want the players to play the long ball to Benteke/Keita, Benteke so he can use his physical strength to hold the ball up and a lofted long ball for Keita so he can use his pace to play off the oppo's shoulders and beat the offside trap. 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 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
Leon Goretzka
Goretzka will be covering for our Wingbacks when they are attacking. When the oppo wingers have the ball he will help our wingbacks against them and double up against them. He is very good on the ball aswell and can pick a pass out. Look for a quick pass out or dribble out of danger if you win the ball back.

Centre Mids
Brozovic + Kessie
Kessie main job is to use his strength and physical ability in the centre to outmuscle oppo players. 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.

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 Benteke and Keita are very good at playing in between the lines.

Strikers
Benteke + Keita
I want Benteke to be the 'target man' and use his top hold up play to bring others into the game. Be ready for crosses into the box as heading is your strongest point. Use your height advantage over the oppo CB's to win the headers. Keita will look to use his pace to play off the oppo shoulders and beat the offside trap. He will be given freedom to drift over to the left wing and use his pace to target the Wolves RB from time to time.

Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Change formation to 343. Bring on Sterling for Alonso and Mario for Hysaj. Bellarabi on for Goretzka aswell. Play a very high line and try and get a goal.

-------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
------------Bailly------------Maguire---------Verthonghen--------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mario------------Kessie--------Brozovic--------------------Sterling
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------Keita-------Benteke-------Bellarabi-----------------------


Subs if WINNING BY 65MINS
Take off Keita and put on Iborra in CM. Change formation to 361 ultra defensive with the defensive line getting even deeper.

-------------------------------Lafont -----------------------------------
---------------Bailly-------Maguire---------Verthonghen--------------
------------------------Goretzka-------Iborra---------------------------------
Hysaj-------------Brozovic------------Kessie--------------Alonso
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------Llorente------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Sterling ON for Keita
Mario ON for Brozovic
Bellarabi ON for Llorente
Like for like changes just fresh legs to help the team.