NEWCASTLE

-----------------------Lloris
-----Sule-----Hummels-----Koulibaly
Florenzi-----Pjanic------Casemiro-------Rose
-------Salah-------Suarez---------Mane
Subs
Hart, Matip, Bertrand, Keita, Ozil, Coutinho, Firmino


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.


Hummels is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, the centre backs will always stay back to stop counter attacks, The 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 or the wing backs thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.




For the wing backs today the objective is to provide the width for the team and keep the oppositon stretched as much as possible, both still have a defensive mindset so will be getting back into a back 5 if we lose the ball. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.


The focus of the midfield 2 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working 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 WB's stay back to prevent counters, 2 of 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. A CB 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 - Bertrand for Rose - The wing backs stay back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.




82 + 86 Mins - Keita for Casemiro and Coutinho for Mane - Actively time waste and Mourinho the opposition.



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

If Losing



67 Mins - Ozil and Coutinho for Casemiro and Rose - The wings backs act as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.

BRUM VS Leicester

-------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
------------Bailly-----------Howedes---------Verthonghen-------------
--------------------------------Goretzka----------------------------------------
Husaj----------Brozovic---------------Kessie-------------M Alonso
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------Vardy------------Keita--------------------------

Subs - Holgate, Maguire, Sanson, Bellarabi, Sterling, Volland, M Dembele

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

Up against a Leicester side full of Real Madrid players, and as a Madrid fan, I know their weaknesses inside out. Vardy will look to target the hotheaded Ramos, get under his skin and look to rattle him, and while he makes one his many forays into attack, POUNCE on the counter attack! We at Brum know how much of an attacking threat the Brazilian Marcelo is, so we will look to focus more attention to that side by being aware of his overlapping runs. Marcelo spends nearly all his time in the opponents half of the pitch looking to help the attack, he often forgets about defending. I want Balde Keita to target that and drift on over to that side and POUNCE on the counter attack. Oh Cristiano, the best player in the world! He is nigh on unstoppable (when he feels like it that is), if he plays on the left wing than we shall double down on him and stick close to him to not allow him any space. If he plays in strike then we need to be vary of his ability of running through the lines. Play the offside trap and catch him unawares. Also young Leon Goretzka will be doing a marking job on him. Stay in front of him and cut out any passes made to him by intercepting any passes made to him.

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 Leicester 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/Keita, so theycan 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 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. Howedes 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 Vardy and Keita are very good at playing in between the lines.

Strikers
Vardy + Keita
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 oppo RB from time to time. Vardy will have a similar job but he will be more focused in targeting the centre backs through the middle.

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

-------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
------------Bailly------------Howedes---------Verthonghen------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lewin-------------Kessie-----------Brozovic--------------------Sterling
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------Keita-------Vardy---------Bellarabi-----------------------


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

-------------------------------Lafont -----------------------------------
---------------Bailly-------Howedes---------Verthonghen--------------
------------------------Goretzka-------Sanson---------------------------------
Hysaj-------------Brozovic------------Kessie--------------Alonso
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------Vardy------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Sterling ON for Keita
Sanson ON for Brozovic
Volland ON for Vardy
Like for like changes just fresh legs to help the team.

Swap hummels and sule roles please

Portsmouth v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

Injuries: Semper, Rooney, Milner, Cancelo

-------------------- Ter Stegen
-------------- Ginter - Pepe - Cahill
Trippier - Strootman - Jorginho - Hector
----------- D Silva ---------- R Sanches
------------------- Aubameyang

Subs: Rulli, Mustafi, Digne, Xhaka, Lucas, D Costa, Immobile

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

A tough but winnable game today away to Portsmouth, 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, Ginter, Pepe and Cahill in the back three, Trippier and Hector as wingbacks, Jorginho and Strootman anchoring the midfield, with David Silva and Renato Sanches in attacking midfield roles off of Aubameyang upfront.

This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting three points today. Portsmouth 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 Aubameyang.

Ginter/Cahill/Pepe - Cahill and Ginter 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 Portsmouth 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 Aubameyang and link with Jorginho/Strootman. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Jorginho/Strootman - Jorginho playing the box to box role, assist Strootman in dealing with the Portsmouth 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, Jorginho 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 Portsmouth 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 Aubameyang with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Jorginho/Strootman, and capitalise on the space Aubameyang's presence will create for you.

Aubameyang - you will be expected to occupy the Portsmouth 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: Sanches off, Xhaka on. 5-3-1-1, wingbacks to fullback, Xhaka in midfield alongside Strootman and Jorginho.

If drawing: Cahill and Sanches off, Lucas Moura and Douglas Costa on. Change to 4-2-3-1, Trippier - Ginter - Pepe - Hector, Strootman and Jorginho in midfield, Lucas - D Silva - D Costa behind Aubameyang upfront.

If losing: Strootman, Cahill and Trippier off, Lucas, D Costa and Immobile on. 3-1-4-2, Ginter - Pepe - Hector, Jorginho the playmaker, Lucas - D Silva - R Sanches - D Costa behind Aubameyang and Immobile upfront. Push for goals.

Everton v BRIGHTON AND HOVE ALBION

Injuries: Holding, Berardi, Brekalo, Cech

Trapp
Cedric - Glik - Luiz - Bernat
Gagliardini - Matuidi
Jese - Payet - Richarlison
Falcao

Subs: Gunn, Zouma, Krychowiak, Fellaini, Redmond, Lallana, Gabbiadini

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

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

Playing a positive 4-2-3-1, Trapp in goal, Cedric, Glik, Luiz and Bernat across the back, Gagliardini and Matuidi in midfield, Jese and Richarlison either side of Payet, behind Falcao upfront.

This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting three points today. Everton have some world class players in their side although we have some class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front four with assistance from the fullbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a duo who can dictate the game in Gagliardini and Matuidi, with Payet ahead of them, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Jese at RW and Richarlison at LW both able to use their pace and get at the Everton defence with Cedric and Bernat overlapping. Falcao upfront to give us a physical presence and somebody who is able to hold up possession as well as create chances for himself and his teammates.

Trapp - 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 Falcao.

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

Cedric/Bernat - 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 four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Jese/Richarlison 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 Falcao and link with Gagliardini/Matuidi/Payet. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

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

Jese/Richarlison - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and 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 Falcao with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Gagliardini/Matuidi/Payet, and capitalise on the space Falcao's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.

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

Falcao - 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 Jese/Payet/Richarlison on occasion.

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

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Payet and Jese off, Krychowiak and Redmond on. Switch to a flat 4-5-1 with Krychowiak alongside Gagliardini and Matuidi in midfield. Redmond to RW and Richarlison to LW, look to punish Everton on the break.

If losing: Gagliardini, Jese and Matuidi off, Lallana, Fellaini and Gabbiadini on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, back three of Cedric - Glik - Bernat, Luiz the playmaker, Lallana - Fellaini - Payet - Richarlison behind a front two of Gabbiadini and Falcao. Push for goals.

——————————Courtois
Conti———Christensen——Umtiti————R.Pereira
——————————Fabinho
——————Ceballos————Milinkovic-Savic
Bernardeschi————Dybala———————Philipp

Subs: Pope, Lindelof, Toljan, Bentancur, Tielemans, Sancho, Icardi

Captain: Thibaut Courtois
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala(left/centre)/Fabinho(right)
Corners: Fabinho/Dani Ceballos
Penalties: Fabinho

Dominate possession today, moving the ball to manipulate the opponent. Focus on aggressive ball-orientated overloads, staggering the team so that everyone is connected either to the ball or to someone who is connected to the ball, allowing for quick circulation of the ball.

Focusing on strong positional play, not leaving gaps behind or to the side of our attack, as well as having the movement needed to break down an opponent. Work in triangles, so if one pushes forward, another comes deep, one pushes wide etc. With that said there will be some specific movements to focus on for each player today.

Fabinho drops deep between the CBs in possession to overload the opposition press. The Cbs can either spread into the half spaces to give us full coverage of the width of the field, or in the same vein they can push right out to the touchline when our FB tucks in, confusing the oppositions pressing patterns.

The FBs will look to make the pitch wide as possible and create overloads, so when the CBs are in the half spaces, the FBs are hugging the touchline, when the CBs spread right out to the touchlines the FBs come infield, creating a central overload to beat the press as well as drawing the opposition wingers in field.

Ceballos has total freedom. His first aim is to make the build up as smooth as possible by dropping in to receive the ball, either from the CBs, or moving wide to double up on the wingers with our FBs and progress the ball down the flank. His movement pulls Dahoud out of position. Further forward his role is to create overloads in attack, either by going to the same side as Savic or the ball side winger, but when the ball side FB attacks, Ceballos sits deeper.

Milinkovic-Savic today plays as the 10, keeping higher up the field, usually moving into the half space opposite to build up, he can draw the DM away from our build up, or move into space to receive longer diagonal passes from the build up, or link with Dybala.

Dybala then is essentially a false 9 today, he can drop deeper and overload the DM with Savic, or he can move to the half spaces/flanks and draw CBs, allowing for the wingers or Savic to run behind him, or he can run behind the defence. The wingers will keep stretched to the touchline to occupy the FBs when we are building up, give us full control of the width of the field, but as soon as the ball progresses into the final third they have more freedom, and if Dybala drops deeper we want the wingers making out to in runs, usually Philipp who is excellent at this.

With all this movement we have lots of possibilities in attack, however we have two main focuses for this game:

1. Creating one v ones on the flanks. We do this by bringing the FBs infield to overload midfield and draw the opposition wingers away from the flanks and combine with Ceballos, who can then play longer passes to the wingers and bypass a midfield battle. We can also do this by having the CBs stretch right out if theres no space in the middle to find these passes. Once the wingers get the ball they get Hull running backwards with Dybala and Savic in support, opposite flank FB can also push right up to allow his winger to come infield and get 3 v 3 against DM and CBs.

2. Using Savic and Dybala to create overloads against their DM. This will be done either through laser passes from Fabinho/CBs when we build with our FBs stretched right out and Ceballos drawing out Dahoud, looking for Dybala dropping deeper, who can then play the ball to Savic who runs off him. Or Ceballos linking with a FB out wide to draw Hull towards one flank, then playing diagonal passes into the far side half space for Savic. Again once in these positions we can get at their back 4.

When we lose it we counterpress, which will be aided by the staggering of our team and aggressive ball orientated support, giving us numbers around the ball, with triangular structures. We will have two blocks when we press, the 5 defensive organisers, and the 5 hunters. The hunters press immediately, don’t allow the opponents time to decide how they will transition. The 5 hunters and their pressing patterns will depend on who is attacking. From their goal kicks it will be our CMs pressing their double pivot, Dybala on the ball side CB, look to force them to a FB then have the winger press him and opposite winger move onto the free CB. If its a FB attacking instead of Ceballos, then his winger will tuck in to help Savic with the double pivot. Look to force them wide and then isolate them into playing longer balls.

The organisers will be pushed close to our offensive line in order to retain strong vertical compactness to add to the opponents difficulty in playing through us. The 5 create a staggered 2-3 bowl shape, allowing us to form a block around their forwards. This should create a 5 vs 4 in our favour meaning that even if a forward gets hold of the ball, we have the numbers around him to win it back quickly, be it from knock downs or a striker looking to use his pace. If press is beaten Dybala and the CMs/FB drop back in. Focus on squeezing opponents if they get it forward.

When they have sustained possession defend in a 4-3-1-2 with vertical and horizontal compactness, deeper lines looking to force them to play in tight spaces. Dybala drops to sit on the DM allowing our midfield three to go 3 v 2, but also meaning we can counter quickly to the flanks.
Subs:

If Winning: Bentancur for Ceballos 70’. Lindelof and Sancho for Bernardeschi and Philipp 80’, 5-3-1-1.

If Drawing: Icardi for Milinkovic-Savic 70’, Dybala as an AM and Icardi’s movement in behind will give the opposition a new threat to worry about. Tielemans for Ceballos 75’, fresh creativity. Sancho for Bernardeschi 80’, fresh legs and someone who will run at the FB.

If Losing: Icardi for Ceballos 60’, Dybala drops back and Icardi goes up front. Tielemans and Lindelof for Conti and Pereira 70’, 3-5-2 with Dybala back up front and Tielemans in midfield. Bernardeschi and Philipp looking to play on the front foot.

If Red card:

In all scenarios we defend deeper with two narrow banks of four, close up all the central space for keep them wider where they are less of a threat. When they move wide, the midfield becomes staggered in a diamond to block the route back centrally.

GK: Pope for Ceballos, 4-4-1
FB: Toljan for Ceballos, 4-4-1
CB: Lindelof for Ceballos, 4-4-1
CM: Bentancur for Ceballos, 4-4-1. If Ceballos is off, leave same.
Winger: Bentancur for Ceballos, 4-4-1. If Philipp goes, Bentancur CM and Savic LM.
CF: Icardi for Philipp, 4-4-1 with Savic LM.

Stoke
---------------------- Rico ---------------------
Bernardo --- I.Diop ---- Chilwell --- Jorge
------ Kovacic --- Diawara --- C.Soler -----
Gelson ---------- Rashford --------- Martial

Dragowski, Passlack, Fornals, M.Lopez, Malcom,
Lemar, Boschilia

Captain: Rico
Penalties: Martial
Corners: Soler
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 Rashford 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 Chilwell 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. Soler, 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 to dictate the tempo. Soler’s runs on the left hand side will also free Martial to get in behind the defence - accompanied by Jorge’s passing ability on the left flank - and will also facilitate in the oppostion shifting to our right, which will give Gelson 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:

65 Mins - Malcom for Gelson straight switch fresh legs and Fornals for Soler

75 Mins -
Losing - Lemar for Soler, Martial up front 442 with attacking fullbacks

Winning - Passlack for Soler, go 541

Drawing - Lemar for Martial

Attacking 3-5-2

We know Nadz has a strong defence, and sets up with a defensive side so we move an extra defender forward to midfield, giving us more control in midfield while also staying attacking.

Attacking at pace and defending in a solid unit. We have a hard working midfield, and so we look to defend high up the pitch. Playing a high line, and pressing. They have pace on the counter but we have pace at the back too, take the game to the opposition and make it difficult for them to play out. We want to score more than the opposition.

We look to control the game from the back, 3 cbs that are great on the ball. Key to our game plan today is attacking quickly,down the wings, stretch the game. Two hardworking pacey wide players add to the energy and pace in the midfield, which is key in attack and defence.

Up top we have two players full of pace who will take the game to them. With Hazard as second striker/no.10, looking to get the best out of him by allowing him to find space, getting involved as much as possible. Linking the play with the midfield to create attacks and supporting Ronaldo.

This will allow us to get the best out of Ronaldo, have him focused on getting in the right positions in the box, getting in behind the cbs. Hazard will add a distraction as he will also look to get beyond the opposition back line finding gaps to run through,the link up of the two will give us an added element to our attack.

A natural right footer on the right and a natural left footer on the left will add to the speed of our attacks, able to quickly play an early cross or through ball. Vitolo on the right gives us a hard working powerful option to break through.

------------------ M.Neuer
-------- Azpi ---- S.Ramos -- Romagnoli
---------------- Koke --- N.Kante --------------
- Vitolo -----------Thiago --------- M.Asensio -
-------------- Ronaldo -- Hazard

Subs. Schmeichel, Odriozola, Blind, Marcelo, Ander, Guedes, D.Costa

Control possession, mixing it up with a few direct long balls from the back.

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.

We will be wary of the counter when we lose the ball. Hazard drops into the space between midfield and attack, Kante drops to dm, with a midfield 4 in front. 3-1-4-1-1. Ronaldo or Hazard look to close down the ball as soon as we lose it allowing the other players to get into shape. Hazard then drops to sit on their dm, in this formation we put press high up the pitch. Don't let them counter, if they get passed the initial press we've slowed them down anyway and will have a more solid formation to defend in.

In this 3-1-4-1-1 formation, we drop deeper as Brum push further foward. When the opposition go wide, the winger opposite to play comes narrow, giving us 3 central players and one wide player. The winger on the side of play drops deep, working with Kante and the wide cb to defend the wing.
Hazard simply sits on their dm, take the option away and be in a position to help us break quickly in between our midfield and Ronaldo.

In a 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 don't leave much space between the lines. Compact lines. Always looking to have 9 players behind the ball. Happy to defend from deep when Brum get higher up the park.

Attack.
We will look to control possession. Defenders will be patient at the back, when we get the ball to midfield we look to move the ball quickly. Quick one twos.
We push players forward. With Vitolo and Asensio offering width, we seek to create space for our strikers. Stretch the opposition, so Hazard can find space in between the lines and so both Hazard and Ronaldo can find space to get through on goal.

In possession, the defence push up playing a reasonably high line as all are comfortable in possession and have great pace. The cms seeking to give them an option, Kante keeps it simple and quick in possession, Koke more expansive, his long passing will allow us to switch quickly and put us on the front foot. Thiago and Koke seeking to both push forward into attacking positions.

We are happy for our defenders and Neuer to switch play up and go long at times.

Quick one-twos in the opposition half going down the lines. We have great pace up top, so want to get them in behind. If not we are happy for our players to take them on.

Subs. If winning after 65 mins bring on Marcelo for Asensio. Fresh energy in the wide areas.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Diego Costa for Hazard. Give Ronaldo more freedom to play off Costa as he bullies the cbs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Odriozola for Vitolo. Great pace and stronger defensively.

If drawing or losing after 60 mins bring on Diego Costa for Asensio. Hazard to lm. More power to allow us to go direct.
If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Marcelo. Fresh pace to get down the left and get crosses in for our strikers.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Guedes for Koke. 3-4-3. All up front.

Injuries:- Cedric Bakambu, Aaron Ramsey, Pablo Maffeo, Gio Lo Celso

Formation: 4-3-3
------------------------Buffon-----------------------
--Valencia----Godin--------Rugani----Rodriguez--
-------------------------Vecino-------------------------
---------------'Rodri'-------------Hamsik--------------
--Candreva--------------------------------Mandzukic--
------------------------Benzema------------------------
Subs: Pickford, Toure, de Vrij, Can, Sissoko, Mboula, Fekir.

Home to Newcastle is a tough game like every other, but I believe we have the quality in this side to take something from this game. Although we are at home, the first protocol will be to thwart Newcastle. So we are setting up in a 4-3-3 formation whilst hitting on the counter attack. Playing a direct style, we will channel our attacks down the left, take advantage of Mandzukic's height advantage and see if we can exploit the space out wide that gets left.

Defensive:
When we are without the ball, we look to sit in a 4-4-2 shape, 2 solid banks of 4. Candreva slots in down on the right and Hamsik shifts over onto the left channel, which isn't always ideal for his game, but it keeps the shape. This way we can't get overloaded down the flanks and both 'Rodri' and Vecino can sit in the middle of the park and look to intercept and hold a shape. We look to restrict space in between the lines and we mark their centre forward and an AM (if they play with one) tightly. Godin dictating at the back with Buffon keeping them organised whilst Vecino and 'Rodri' shore up the centre of the park in midfield. When we break, Mandzukic can pull back out onto the left channel with Candreva on the right, but we aim for Mandzukic's head and look to set him and Benzema away and have both Candreva and Hamsik as the main runners from midfield whilst our full backs can also break up the field as Vecino and 'Rodri' hold.

Attacking:
When in possession of the ball, we stick with our 4-3-3 system and we channel our attacks down the left hand side. We look to condense players down the left side to open up more space for players like Candreva to have a direct run at the full backs on the right. But we aim for Mandzukic and I would expect Rodriguez, Hamsik and Benzema to be in close support for knock downs, flick ons etc. Anticipation will be key when going forward and we have to react first to the second balls in order to cause them a problem. They have the best defence in the league for a reason, so we need to penetrate when we can. Going down the right side, we have 2 accomplished crossers of the ball in Candreva and Valencia. Valencia will support Candreva and the obvious target being Mandzukic at the far post against their RB. Benzema again will look to be close to the ball once they go to Mandzukic in anticipation that the ball will drop for him to have a strike on goal. Benzema is an excellent link up striker, so he can work well with these knock downs from Mandzukic and look to bring our midfield breakers and creative influences, such as Candreva and Hamsik into the game more. We have an accomplished set piece taker in Rodriguez at LB, he will be over all of our attacking set pieces, corners and penalties if that's the case, so we can also look to play for set pieces and take advantage of our height advantage as well as his quality deliveries.

Set Pieces:-
Corners - Ricardo Rodriguez
Free kicks - Ricardo Rodriguez
Penalties - Ricardo Rodriguez

Substitutions:

If winning:-
Can > Hamsik, 70 mins
Fekir > Mandzukic, 75 mins
Sissoko > 'Rodri', 85 mins

Aim to freshen up some legs in the final period of the game by having Can and Sissoko's energy to close down their midfielders and Fekir as a different dynamic out wide to run at defenders.

If drawing:-

Can > 'Rodri', 70 mins
Fekir > Candreva, 70 mins

Switch to a 4-2-2-2 formation, a little more narrow but a couple of bodies in more central positions to cause their defence more problems. Have Hamsik and Fekir in behind Benzema and Mandzukic with Can and Vecino holding in the middle.

If losing:-

Mboula > Candreva, 65 mins
Sissoko > Vecino, 75 mins
Fekir > 'Rodri', 85 mins

Mboula comes on to show his skills on the ball and use his feet to dance away from defenders, Sissoko on in midfield to add some more attacking flair in the midfield and if we are still losing by the 85th minute we then switch to a 4-1-3-2 formation, have Mandzukic up top to support Benzema and sacrifice a deeper midfielder and higher the tempo for a late push to try and get something from the game.

-----------------------------Horn
Weiser------Lemos----------Kempf------Guerreiro
--------------Ascacíbar--------Dahoud
-------Mahrez----------Ziyech-----------Forsberg
------------------------Ibrahimovic

Subs: Pollersbeck, Plattenhardt, Tousart, F. de Jong, Aouar, Schöpf, Pjaca


Our defensive unit consists of Mauricio Lemos and Marc-Oliver Kempf paired up at centre-back, Mitchell Weiser at right-back and Raphaël Guerreiro at left-back, with Santiago Ascacíbar and Mahmoud Dahoud as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Ascacíbar 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 Ascacíbar 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, Santiago Ascacíbar.

A holding midfielder through and through, Ascacíbar 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 Ascacíbar such a talent.

The attacking unit consists of Riyad Mahrez, Hakim Ziyech and Emil Forsberg 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 Ascacíbar or Dahoud, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.

Weiser and Guerreiro can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Ascacíbar and Dahoud can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Riyad Mahrez and Emil Forsberg, 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 Mahrez, Forsberg 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
Pjaca on for Forsberg, Aouar on for Ziyech and Tousart on for Dahoud

------------------------- Ederson
---------- Varane ------ Javi.M ----- Laporte
Oxlade -------- Eriksen ----- Fernandinho ------ Ghoulam
----------------------- De Bruyne
------------ Lewandowski --- Mertens

Subs: Meret, Tah, Mendy, Rabiot, A.Sanchez, O.Dembele, Werner

At home, look to take the game to the opposition, playing with confidence and zip and allowing our attackers to play with freedom.

Possession with purpose and urgency. plenty of link up play, width and movement, dragging their mfs and defenders out of position and penetrating in the final third.

Powerful block of 4 in midfield, very physical.
Energy and high tempo throughout, quick on our feet and looking to win the ball back as quickly as possible.

We drop slightly deeper when Wolves are on the ball looking to nullify the threat they pose with their pace. De Bruyne forming a trio in mf in a 3-5-2 with Mertens alongside Lewa up top, pressing from the front.

One of Eriksen/KDB always sit deeper and dictate the pace of the game with their passing. Clinical in forward areas, mixing it up with long balls, runs from deep and overloads on the counter, get numbers in the box and give their defenders a right grilling.

3-4-1-2 - Possession based:

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

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

Varane and Laporte should shift slightly wider when on the offense allowing our wing-backs to push up in a bank of 4 in mf.

Eriksen and Fernandinho, 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, Fernandinho 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.

De Bruyne and Mertens have free roles in attack, at times going wider to support the WG-backs. Mertens partnering Lewa up top with De Bruyne in behind, or them sitting and dictating/driving from deep to open up the game ahead.

Generally they will look to play inbetween the lines, roaming in the oppositions half and and looking to act as the link between midfield and attack. Picking up pockets of space and using their awareness to dictate the play, never afraid to play a key pass in behind to unlock their defence to find a player in space or drive from deep.

Defensively, KDB coming deeper and working alongside our mf duo in a 3, squeeze and don't allow any space or time in central areas for the opposition, forcing them back and in tight spots. Mertens pressing with Lewa as a duo in attack.

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

Two powerful WG-backs in Oxlade and Ghoulam, need to hug the touchline and provide the width allowing us to stretch the opposition. Always on the move so we can can get them in behind and use them as outlets going forward when picking a pass.

Very possession orientated, comfortable playing quick 1-2's and accelerating into space, overlapping often and getting early deliveries into the box for our striker/s to attack.

As well as scoring goals Lewandowski has a big role today, should often look to come deep and link with others, hold up play and take the CB with him, spinning beyond and opening up the space for our WG-backs and De Bruyne/Mertens to run into.

When Wolves are in possession we will initially look to press from front with our two strikers (Lew & Mertens) and then drop off deeper with men behind the ball if they bypass with a strong block of 5.

Don’t allow them to play out from the back and hurry their passes. Our attackers form a duo looking to cut avenues into midfield as one goes to press the ball, force them into tight spots with their backs to goal towards the touchline.

The reason we want our front two to press is to force Wolves to play long and concede possession, we feel they lack any sort of aerial presence in the side so are less likely to win contested duels.

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

Our wingbacks and wide CB's should interlink throughout, off the ball our wing-backs need to track back and help with defensive duties preventing overloads. Keep them wide and give them no space to work with.

Essentially a 3-5-2, 5 in mf working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wing-backs then drop off to mark the oppositions wingers and help our CB's to prevent any space being left in behind.

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

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

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

Subs:
IF WINNING: 70th minute – (3-4-1-2)
- Rabiot > Eriksen
- A.Sanchez > Mertens
Compact 3-4-1-2, Rabiot look to use his fresh energy to get about, Sanchez look to pick up pockets of space and drive at tired legs.

IF DRAW: 70th minute – (3-5-2 - wide)
- Werner > Mertens
- O.Dembele > KDB
- Mendy > Ghoulam (75th minute)
Werner partners Lewa in attack. O.Dembele free role in AM to attack, stretch the opposition and create room in central areas to operate .

IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- A.Sanchez > Laporte
- O.Dembele > De Bruyne
- Rabiot > 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 - De Bruyne / shoot - Mertens
Corners – De Bruyne/Ghoulam
Pens - Lewandowski

Comment deleted by Article Creator

------------------------ Carevic ------------------------

-------- Rudiger ---- Kompany ---- van Dijk --------

Ronael ------- Merino ------- Gueye ------- Tierney

---------- Kelechi ---- Lukaku ---- Morata -----------

Butland, Bakayoko, Kolarov, Willian, Sane, Milik, Mkhitaryan

new formation to try out v Liverpool, obvs going to be a very tough game but at home so we are going to go for it in terms of formation anyway

Carevic is a young keeper but will have plenty experience in front of him, he mustn't be overawed, just play his normal game, coming out for crosses and shutting down strikers, hopefully an early save will calm his nerves. Look to throw/kick out early for quick attacks.

Going 343 means our back 3 have to be resilient, stay tight and not allow anything through, van Dijk and Rudiger will be the man markers, if they play one up top then which ever side the striker goes to the CB will pick him up allowing the other one to pick up the second striker/AM who is coming forward. Kompany remains spare at all times, enabiling him to be spare and free to help out either if needed, however if we are seen to be getting over whelmed by there front line Kompany will take over man marking the striker allowing one of the cbs either side to move across to help out the wingbacks. They keep it tight like said, and play the ball out to the ones in fron to set us up on the counter, if we need to go high and long then all three are capable of pinging a pass forward.

The wingbacks are young and energetic who will be up and down the pitch for as long as they are on the pitch, support the forwards and defenders when they need to. We wont nessesary make a back five but they will track the wingers and stop them becoming a threat. Both will be key ingredients in our attack, with three at the back they both have the freedom to get forward and get beyond the midfield to draw in players and hopefully free up space for our front three, if they have the space fire in crosses as there is plenty options hopefully in the middle.

Merinoo and Gueye will have to be calm and composed, I want them not to dwell on the ball but to get it out wide or up front quickly, they may be overwhelmed in midfield at times, but with us having three strikers can Liverpool afford to try and leave themselves short at the back, hopefully not so merino and Gueye will possibly have enough between them to shackle them. Look to push them back but don't go gung ho as we cannot afford to be outnumberwd as they attack. Gueye is the ball winner who will go in hard, whilst Merino will be the one looking to open things up up front.

Now, a front three consisting of 3 strikers not wingers or attacking midfielders, 3 strikers as we look for goals, which they all have in there lockers. Lukaku will be the poacher and bully as he doesn't do much else, he will be central looking for the through balls from Merino etc so he can run onto them and hopefully get passed his marker whilst Morata and Kelechi will be doing the running looking to drag the defenders all over the place, they will drift out to help the young wingbacks to try and free up some space for them to get into as they then return to the danger area. When we break quickly these three will be right up at the defenders and maybe, hopefully too much for them to handle. I am hoping there defenders wont know who to mark especially 2 cbs v 3 strikers so there fullback(s) will have to come inside, tis allowing space for one of our wingbacks to get themselves into. All good in the air so if high balls come there way each of them can look to beat defenders in the air to knock down for the other two. When we are defending I expect Liverpool to attack in numbers so even tho they aren't defensive minded they can still help out by pushing wide to stop there fullbacks progressing up the pitch.

Captain - Kompany
Free Kicks - Merino
Corners - Merino
Penalties - Morata/Lukaku

Subs -

Losing
65 Mins - Sane for Kelechi
75 Mins - Mkhitaryan forTierney, Sane go to LM, Mkhit to No10 and try an do pen things up, Willian for Ronael

Winning -
70 Mins - Bakayoko for Kelechi, he sits in behind Merino and Gueye and the wingbacks are not so gung-ho
80 Mins - Kolarov for Lukaku, go to LB, Rudiger to RB 4141
85 Mins - Sane for Morata, run everything down

Drawing -
70 Mins - Willian for Kelechi, Sane for Lukaku, Morata go central and the two wingers try and open things up, Kolarov for Tierney as well

Possession 4-3-3

We look to play our usual game and take the game to the Villa, controlling possession from the back and with an energetic midfield trio. Control possession and find space in between the opposition lines. We want to knock the ball about the opposition, tiring them out, and allowing us to push players forward into attck.

The defence will be patient on the ball, will be hugely important in keeping possession and pushing us up the pitch. Playing a reasonably high line, with good pace at the back and energy in front. As soon as we get the ball to our midfield, we look to move the ball quickly, quick passing and moving. Possession starts at the back.

In midfield, Kante reading the play looking to win the ball back as the dm, Thiago will offer another strong defensive player next to him with Alena given a chance to play in a setup that will suit him and that he's used to. Get Alena and Thiago on the ball and looking to play neat one twos in between the lines to open up the opposition using the pace of our attacking trio.

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.

Getting Thiago and Alena 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, Odriozola.

--------------------- Neuer
Odriozola - J.Stones - S.Ramos - Marcelo
--------------------- Kante
--------------- Thiago ---- Alena
- M.Asensio ------------------------- Hazard -
-------------------- Ronaldo

Subs. Schmeichel, Blind, Ndidi, Koke, Vitolo, Guedes, D.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 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 Villa 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, sweeping up danger in front of the defence, the cms pressing their midfield.

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.

As we drop deeper we are really compact. No space in between the lines. Isolate their attackers and force them to take risks.

Attack.

Pateint play out from the back and 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 Alena controlling the midfield 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. The cbs will always be there to offer an option to go back and start again.

We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Thiago, Alena 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. After 60 mins bring on Koke for Alena. Fresh energy and control.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Guedes for Asensio.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Diego Costa for Ronaldo. Bully their tired cbs and hold up play to bring others into play.

If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on D.Costa for Asensio. Hazard right, Ronaldo left and Costa CF.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Guedes for Thiago. Playing off Diego Costa as no.10.

Comment deleted by Article Creator

-------------------------- Heaton --------------------------
Henrichs ------ Sanchez ----- Lenglet ------ A.Sandro
------------ Khedira --- Paredes --- Tolisso ------------
-- Callejon ------------ Poulsen ------------ Neymar --

Johnstone, Sanchez, Partey, Alli, Mbappe, Jesus, Arp

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

Sanchez in beside Lenglet, on this occassion Lenglet will man mark the CF. He is a very quick and skillfull defender, with great marking abilities, powerfully built so marking the CF should be no trouble wether he is quick or big and powerful as he has to man up to him, will keep him away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Sanchez alongside is fantastic in the air, so will mark any other players that come into our danger area, strong in the air and strong in the tackle and make sure he is strong enough to get the ball away from danger. Both can play out of defence but only do so when there is time and space.

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

We stay as a tight knit unit at the back, when defending stay in a line and make this as hard as possible for Arsenal to break through.

We have a very industrious trio in the middle for this game, the aim is to close down there midfield and make it conjested as to not allow them any space ot time to make their passes count and keep them away from dangerous areas. Paredes in the middle 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! Paredes himself will look to dictate from deep as he picks up from the defence and looks to drive us forward with precision passing. He is a very calming influence on the team and does everything very simply allowing others to do the running for him. Khedira and Tolisso are my runners they will go against the other midfielders or anyone else that is around that area. Even tho Paredes has the man marking role Khedira and Tolisso will look to cover much of the pitch with his energy and exuberance, hassling and harassing anyone who has the ball pushing them backwards whilst they do so, they doesn't give any one time on the ball as they move side to side and forwards and back, this style pressurizes the opposition to pass erractically. Our midfield trio will look to pass and move always look for the return pass. When we have the ball Khedira and Tolisso in particular will get us moving forward from the centre once he has picked the ball up from deep or from Paredes who will always patrol the area just in front of our defenders, there close control and ability to carry the ball into the attacking third once they has the ball is exceptional as they push up to bring our forwards into the game. When they have then close down the CMs, they will look to ping the ball about so get to him before that opportunity arises. We want to control this game so short quick passes, use tactical nous to get others into the game, Our front three will be moving around so look to play triangles to get them into shooting opportunities, we must keep possession however so nothing silly, at times the build has to be slow and methodical and we certainly have the players and experience to know when to do this.

Neymar and Callejon are known for their creativity, speed, and technical ability and are fearless, explosive attacking midfielders who can change the game with a turn of pace or a dribble. More importantly both scorers of wonderful and important goals. Both technically excellent in limited areas, fast explosive acceleration during the first ten yards. Which more often than not takes them passed defenders and allows them to get into dangerous areas. Always play with there heads up looking for the runs of others to get the ball into there feet especially Poulsen. Callejon will look to drive down the line and keep it to the outside making them come to him, which will leave holes in the centre of the pitch hopefully he will get the ball into. Neymar will get a free run at them, you really cant coach a very special talent as long as he is focussed and does what he does best. If they play a back 3 when we attack I want our front three to move about and and not allow particular players to pick them up, as we have fairly attacking fullbacks supporting them then we have options to push inside, there defence will not be focussed and get confused as to who and where to go and mark and hopefully this opens up space for our attackers

However, he must be a team player and bring others into the game when he can. When they have the ball look to stick close to fullbacks/wingbacks and stop them coming forward, I am sure whoever is looking to do results will focus on there shiete defending, but just track them and use pace to get back and in around there faces to stop them becoming a threat. We defend as a team from the front so even if they can look to stop the threat of the defenders then that's two players out the picture.

Poulsen 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. 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/range he is also extremely useful in the air, so when and if crosses come in he willlook to get abovce the centre backs, if not at least lay it off to those runners coming in,.All of our front three will be a threat today we must go for it and keep pace with them.


Captain - Tolisso
Pens - Neymar/Jesus
Free Kicks - Neymar
Corners - Wingers

Subs -
Losing -
70 Mins - Fiete-Arp and Jesus for Khedira and Poulsen 442 with Arp and Jesus up front playing off each other, Mbappe for Callejon at the same time
80 Mins - 424 with Neymar and Mbappe pushing right up

Winning -
70 Mins - Partey for Khedira, to add extra energy in the same role
80 Mins - Jesus for Poulsen to run at everything
85 Mins - Sanchez for Paredes to sit in the hole between defence and midfield

Drawing -
70 Mins - Mbappe for Callejon, Jesus for Poulsen, Alli for Khedira 4231
----------------------------------------------------------------------

VILLA (League cup vs Leicester)

Injuries:
Phil Jones
Marlon Santos
Claudio Marchisio
Arjen Robben


……………………………………….Oblak…………………………..
Hysaj……………….Boateng…………Manolas………...Luis
……………………….Gagliardini………Pellegrini………………
Cavani…………………………Griezmann……………..Reus
……………………………………Higuain………………………………..

Subs: Chesney, Davies, Mere, N’zonzi, Modric, James, Kessie

Fast paced front foot football by us tonight…nice slick passing no long balls aimlessly over the top, play it into feet pass and move and attack the spaces, we wanna out spain spain.

Oblak is a very good shot stopper fast off his line, and will use his decent physical size to dominate his box and marshal his defence, no long punts downfield roll it out to the defence, keep possession moving.

The Defence

Hysaj and Luis will look to push forward with the midfield, not bomb on but considered movement – we want them available for short passing triangle, this a controlled attack not gung-ho. Defensively they’ll show the man the line and force the cross for our CB’s to deal with.
Boateng will use his physicality to man mark their striker allowing Manolas to cover any loose balls or flick ons. Decent on the ball too so he’ll step out of the defence and help be an easy ball.

The Midfield
Gags and Pelle come in for their debuts, both solid in the engine, pretty simple for them to day anchor the play and spread the ball about – nothing complicate just retain possession and use it wisely, Not every pass has to go forwards.

The front-four

Cav find himself unlucky back out on the wing but he’s a solid worker and we’ll need that ethic today pulling the Spanish defence out of position by drifting inside and bringing bodies infield with him. Reus on the other flank we want as a pure winger, run the line and really stretch the pitch – with outwide banging in crosses for the other 3 to attack we should get some joy.

Griez today gets the #10, play off the shoulder of Higgy and look to hit the ball from distance

Higuain may be seen as lazy and doesn’t get involved in the build up play, But I’m old school I want my striker in the box doing the business, and there are very few that do that business better than Higgy.

Subs 65 mins

Modirc > Pellegrini
James > Reus (and switch with Griez)
Kessie > Gagliardini

Injuries:- Karim Benzema, Ademola Lookman, Luke Shaw, Gio Lo Celso

4-2-3-1
-------------------------Buffon-----------------------
---Valencia----Godin------Rugani----Rodriguez---
------------------'Rodri'-------Can--------------------
---Mboula--------------Fekir----------Mandzukic---
------------------------Bakambu---------------------
Subs: Pickford, Toure, de Vrij, Romeu, Hamsik, Suarez, Simone.

The team has made a positive start since my return with 2 good results in both the league and Europe. We look to some younger and fresher faces that are able to compete in this game against a tough Chelsea side. We will look to go toe to toe with this Chelsea side as I expect they may field a changed side rather than their strongest. We have the ability in attacking areas to cause them problems and if we can make it a scrappy midfield battle here, our direct counter attacking style might be enough to see us through.

Defensive:
Chelsea have some quality players in their attack and we will have to stop them at all costs to have a good chance of a result. The midfield of 'Rodri' and Can is key in protecting this defence against midfield runners as I feel we can exploit them using Mandzukic's power against their RB and Fekir's technical ability. But our midfield base must protect that back 2 and with energy to burn off in that area, I think we will have enough to make it difficult. The back 4 must be a solid unit and it's important that we don't let their wide players get into 1v1's with our full backs, as we know it's our weakest area. So if they play down the left flank, our RCM, in this case 'Rodri', will push over to support Valencia to double up on the wide man. Can covers in the middle and Fekir also drops back in from his AM slot to support Can. The same applies on the other flank, just with different players slotting into the areas to cover. The purpose of this is to leave Mandzukic and Mboula up the field. This is so we can give their full backs more to think about before bombing on, if they choose to do so. We have Mandzukic who is our main target for long balls into the wide areas on the break, nice and direct so we can squeeze up the field and exploit the space left. Mboula also has excellent technical ability which means he can be a real threat when running at defenders. Bakambu has the ability and the power to be able to pick gaps and pull the defensive shape about on the break. As I expect they will have a midfielder covering at times to keep 3 men back, it's important for Bakambu to run into the space that's been left, possibly in the wide areas to drag one of these 3 players into an area where they can't sufficiently defend against our counter attacks. This way we could open up more space for Fekir and one of our 2 midfielders to break forward, whilst Mboula can look to isolate a covering defender on the break. But our main focus of defence is to watch the wide areas, have our 2 midfielders work hard and protect our defence and to break efficiently.

Attacking:
Following on from what has been previously stated, our attacking emphasis will all be on how we can pull Chelsea apart on the break. As all of their full backs like to attack, no matter who they play, this is one area I feel we can exploit. So we will purposely leave Mboula, Bakambu and Mandzukic up the field for counter attacks just to give us that psychological edge if they have to keep their full backs in defensive areas or sacrifice a forward-thinking midfield player when in possession. As mentioned, we aim for Mandzukic who is more than capable of knocking the ball on for Bakambu's runs in the channel or bringing it down and looking to bring central runners like Fekir and one of our 2 midfielders into play. Just like against Newcastle, we will leave Mboula free on the right flank and look to isolate the full back/covering defender in a 1v1 where possible, as he has the pace and the ability on the ball to make life tough for them. We know Bakambu's greatest strengths are in the area with half a yard of space, once them runs in the channel have been made, he has to be direct and get himself into that area. If he has the ball, just be patient, work it well and maybe look for an overlapping run of Rodriguez/Valencia to keep the ball in a dangerous area, whilst giving himself chance to get into the box.

But if we can get a good spell of possession during the game, that's when we look to stretch the game, double up on the flanks as often as possible and have Can and 'Rodri' cover. Fekir is the pivot in AM, always looking for space and playing on the half turn. But our focus of attacks can be down the right flank and we have players such as Bakambu, Fekir and of course Mandzukic to aim for, so we are not short of good quality options and we could even have Rodriguez making a late run at the far post to sneak round if the option is there. But the quality of our crosses will be key if we get the chance in the game as must utilise them as much as possible.

Subs:-

If winning:

'Rodri' Off - On Romeu - Tough midfield job and fresh legs will be required to keep the pace up throughout. 70 mins.

Fekir Off - On Hamsik - Revert to a 4-3-3 with Romeu in DM and look to contain them and shut up shop. 75 mins.

Bakambu Off - On Suarez - Mandzukic up top for the long balls and Suarez a tactical change out on the left as he will be more suited to he demands of a 4-3-3. 75 mins.

If drawing:

Can Off - On Hamsik - Go to a 4-1-4-1 formation attacking and look to be brave and go for the kill in the final 15 minutes. 75 mins.

'Rodri' Off - On Romeu - Extra legs and better protection in the midfield in this formation. 75 mins.

Mboula Off - On Candreva - Like for like and a last throw of the dice sort of change. 80 mins.

If losing:

The same substitutions as the one's if we are drawing.

BRUM VS Brighton - league cup

-----------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
---------------Holgate--------Howedes------------Ake------------------
-----------------------------------Iborra----------------------------------------
Coleman---------Winks--------------Sanson-------------M Alonso
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------Llorente------------Sterling--------------------------

Subs - Bailly, Chalobah, Kampl, Barkley, Calvert Lewin, Vardy, Volland

CAPTAIN - HOWEDES
CK'S - ALONSO
FK'S - ALONSO
PENALTIES - WINKS

Playing some players I hardly play today against Brighton give them a chance to earn a spot in the starting lineup for the next game.

When we don't have possession of the ball in our half I want the whole team except Sterling to get in our half and defend. Play a deep defensive line so that oppo 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/Sterling, Llorente so he can use his physical strength to hold the ball up and a lofted long ball for Sterling so he can use his pace to play off the oppo's shoulders and beat the offside trap. Winks and Sanson 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 Sterling 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. Ake and Holgate have the pace to play the 3atb formation with ease. Howedes 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
Iborra
Iborra 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
Winks + Sanson
Winks main job is to use his quickness and speed in the centre to outpace oppo players in the mifdle. When the oppo AM has the ball close him down asap but when we have the ball make runs forward. Sanson will play a b2b role. Brozovic has the ability to pick out a pass while Winks is an engine which can run all day long. They complement each other perfectly. When defending, one of you will press the oppo CM to try and get the ball off them and regain possession.

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

Strikers
Llorente + Sterling
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. Sterling 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 oppo RB from time to time.

Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Change formation to 343. Bring on Barkley for Alonso and Calvert Lewin for Coleman. Volland on for Goretzka aswell. Play a very high line and try and get a goal.

-----------------------------------Lafont-----------------------------------
------------Holgate-------Howedes-------------Ake--------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lewin-------------Winks-----------Sanson--------------------Barkley
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------Volland-------Llorente---------Sterling----------------------


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

------------------------------------Lafont -----------------------------------
---------------Holgate-------Howedes-----------Ake--------------
----------------------------Iborra-------Kampl---------------------------------
Coleman-------------Winks---------Sanson--------------Alonso
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------Llorente------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Volland ON for Sterling
Kampl ON for Sanson
Vardy ON for Llorente
Like for like changes just fresh legs to help the team.

——————————Courtois
————Lindelof—-Christensen——Umtiti
Conti————————Fabinho——————Toljan
———Loftus-Cheek——————Savic
—————————Dybala
———————————Belotti

Subs: Pope, Latorre, Ceballos, A.Maier, J.Sancho, Carrasco, Abraham

Captain: Thibaut Courtois
Free Kicks: Fabinho(right)/Paulo Dybala(left and centre)
Corners: Fabinho
Penalties: Fabinho

We must have a smooth build up to facilitate strong possession and allow us to use the ball to manipulate the opponent. In build up, we will have our wide CBs stretched right out to the touchline and pushed slightly higher than Christensen and our WBs pushed forward, giving Tottenham’s first line of defence a much greater area to press. Fabinho will drop in alongside Christensen and allow us to overload their forwards, using the overload will allow one of Christensen/Fabinho to carry the ball into midfield, which will draw one of Spurs’ midfielders out to press, when this happens we want both Savic and RLC moving ball side to draw the rest of the Spurs midfield ball side, Dybala making an opposite movement to open a diagonal passing lane behind the Spurs midfield, getting the ball to him allows us to establish easy possession in Spurs’ half, at this point wide CBs tuck back in to half spaces.

Once we establish possession in their half we have a whole host of attacking possibilities in this formation. Firstly, we want our WBs to stay wide in a mid line in the opposition half to give their FBs a decision of whether drop back and keep a solid back line, or push up and go head to head with our WBs. If they stay deeper it means we can use our WBs to push Spurs back by having them run into the space in front. Alternatively it means Dybala has more freedom in the half space, which means when he receives the ball and has the WB free outside him, this forces all of Spurs ball side players into a decision, CMs have to run back to close him down, leaving our CMs free, FB has to chose whether to cut off our WB or go and press Dybala, CB has to chose whether to step out of his position to press Dybala. All this indecision allows for players to make runs off Dybala, WB can run behind to the touchline if their FB focuses on Dybala, our CMs can make blind side runs to join the forward line, Belotti can run behind the CB if he vacates his position, with Dybala likely to pick the right pass. If their FBs go man to man with our WBs, Dybala can then position himself behind their FB, which will force one of their CBs to come out, it opens a huge gap in their defensive line which once again allows our ball side CM to join the front line, playing a one two with Dybala to get behind the CB and into space down the side of their defence. Dybala should be acting as the free man as much as possible today, by drawing players towards him, he opens up space for Ruben and Savic who are both fantastic runners and can look to join the front line and support Belotti, they possess great power and technique to overwhelm the opposition physically and technically. If we can’t exploit space ball side we bring our entire midfield and both strikers towards the side of play, force Spurs to commit more men ball side, their CBs focusing on our forwards and CMs on our CMs, we then look to switch play quickly to the other side where the wide CB can run forward and take an advanced midfield position in the half space, force one of their CBs to come out to him, have a midfield runner occupy another CB and then get Belotti and Dybala 2 v 1 against the far side defender ready for crosses.

To complement our possession we must press high when we lose it, working zonally. Dybala and Belotti will be positioned in the half spaces to make passes out to the FBs more difficult, as from here we can control diagonal and vertical passing lanes as well as stopping Spurs moving us from side to side. Savic then steps up to focus on the central zone, stopping any balls in to their deepest CM. With these three we block the CBs route out, leaving them only difficult passing options, either into the FBs where we can use CF and WB to press them against the touchline and stop them coming back infield, or into the CMs where we can quickly have 3 midfielders creating an overload and winning the ball back with their extra power. Ruben and Fabinho go zonal on their CMs to keep them marked whilst our back 5 also goes zonal, WBs controlling the flanks, wide CBs the half spaces and Christensen the centre. If their CBs split wider to find better passing coverage we initiate a harder press with our CFs, whilst if they go longer into the forwards the CB in the ball zone will initiate a hard press looking to force the forward to go backwards or sideways knowing the rest of the back 5 can drop behind him and Fabinho can come across to double up and win the loose ball. Don’t allow them to build from the back and establish easy possession, force them longer and have Fabinho picking up loose balls in front of the defence.

If we are forced deeper we stick to our back 5 defending zonally, the defender in the ball zone moving out to press his man hard and force him backwards or sideways, with the rest of the defence falling back deeper to cover the space behind. Midfield stays compact to the defence and focuses mostly on the middle ground, forwards drop deeper to trap Spurs in. Most importantly when someone runs at our WB they stay on their feet, hold their ground and give the CM time to come across and double up. Fabinho always covering the space in front of the defence to allow the back 5 to retain their positions at all times.





Subs:

If Winning: Arne Maier for Loftus-Cheek 70’, apparently he’s the new Toni Kroos. Latorre for Toljan 75’, fresh legs in a key position. Sancho for Belotti 80’, as Spurs push we free up Dybala and Sancho to attack them wherever the spaces are, if we are under intense pressure, Dybala can drop left and Sancho on the right, 5-5-0.

If Drawing: Ceballos for Loftus-Cheek 65’, fresh creativity, someone who will pull the strings in attack and always pick the best pass. Carrasco for Savic 75’, 3-4-3, Carrasco on to run at tiring defenders, wherever the space is, he will attack it. Abraham for Belotti 80’, as Dybala, Ceballos, Carrasco and the WBs work chances, we want Abraham to be in the box, using his excellent movement to pounce against tiring defenders.

If Losing: Carrasco and Sancho for Lindelof and Loftus-Cheek 60’, 4-3-3, back to our usual set up with Dybala and Savic looking to work together to overload opponents and work chances for the front three, Sancho and Carrasco to push the opposition FBs right back, with our FBs inverted to allow us to control possession and give freedom to our AMs. Abraham for Belotti 75’, poacher in the box.

------------------------ Ederson
---------- J.Tah ------ Varane ----- Laporte
Bellerin ------- A.Vidal ----- Fernandinho ------ Mendy
----------------------- De Bruyne
------------ Lewandowski --- Werner

Subs: Meret, Juanfran, Oxlade, Rabiot, Eriksen, Ousmane, A.Sanchez

At home, look to take the game to the opposition, playing with confidence and zip and allowing our attackers to play with freedom when in possession.

Sitting deeper when the opposition are on the ball and triggering quick breaks, young wg-backs bombing on to create width, space in the middle and Werner playing off the shoulder stretching their CB's

3-4-1-2 - Possession based:
It starts from the back. Ederson is very able with his hands and feet and should look to find our players in space.

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

Tah and Laporte should shift slightly wider when on the offense allowing our wing-backs to push up in a bank of 4 in mf.

Vidal and Fernandinho, 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, Fernandinho 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.

De Bruyne has a free role in attack, at times going wider to support the WG-backs. playing in just behind the two strikers, or sitting and operating/driving from deep to open up the game ahead for others.

Generally he will look to play inbetween the lines, roaming in the oppositions half and and looking to act as the link between midfield and attack. Picking up pockets of space and using his awareness to dictate the play, never afraid to play a key pass in behind to unlock their defence.

Defensively, KDB coming deeper and working alongside our mf duo in a 3, squeeze and don't allow any space or time in central areas for the opposition, forcing them back and in tight spots. Werner pressing with Lewa as a duo in attack.

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

Two quick and skillful WG-backs in Bellerin and Mendy, need to hug the touchline and provide the width allowing us to stretch the opposition. Always on the move so we can can get them in behind and use them as outlets going forward when picking a pass.

Very possession orientated, comfortable playing quick 1-2's and accelerating into space, overlapping often and getting early deliveries into the box for our striker/s to attack.

As well as scoring goals Lewandowski has a big role today, should often look to come deep and link with others, hold up play and take the CB with him, spinning beyond and opening up the space for our WG-backs and De Bruyne/Werner to run into.

When Newcastle are in possession we will initially look to press from front with our two strikers (Lew & Werner) and then drop off deeper with men behind the ball if they bypass with a strong block of 5.

Don’t allow them to play out from the back and hurry their passes. Our attackers form a duo looking to cut avenues into midfield as one goes to press the ball, force them into tight spots with their backs to goal towards the touchline.

The reason we want our front two to press is to force Newcastle to play long and concede possession, we feel they lack any sort of aerial presence in the side so are less likely to win contested duels.

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

Our wingbacks and wide CB's should interlink throughout, off the ball our wing-backs need to track back and help with defensive duties preventing overloads. Keep them wide and give them no space to work with.

Essentially a 3-5-2, 5 in mf working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wing-backs then drop off to mark the oppositions wingers and help our CB's to prevent any space being left in behind.

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

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

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

Subs:
IF WINNING: 70th minute – (3-4-1-2)
- Rabiot > Vidal
- Ousmane > De Bruyne
Compact 3-4-1-2, Rabiot look to use his fresh energy to get about, Ousmane look to pick up pockets of space in central areas and drive at tired legs.

IF DRAW: 70th minute – (3-5-2 - wide)
- A.Sanchez > Werner
- Eriksen > De Bruyne
- Rabiot > Fernandinho (75th minute)
A.Sanchez partners Lewa in attack and chase everything in sight, Eriksen look to dictate in the middle. Rabiot on 75th".

IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- A.Sanchez > Tah
- O.Dembele > De Bruyne
4-4-2, direct. long balls into the box and constantly looking for the two strikers.
Flood forward and look for an equalizer/winner.

C - Lewandowski
FK's - De Bruyne / shoot - A.Sanchez
Corners – De Bruyne
Pens - Lewandowski

NEWCASTLE

-----------------------Lloris
-----Hummels-----Sule-----Marquinhos
Florenzi-----Pjanic------Casemiro-------Bertrand
-------Mane-------Suarez---------Reus
Subs
Chesney, Ozil, Clyne, N'Zonzi, Coutinho, Salah, 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.


Hummels is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, the centre backs will always stay back to stop counter attacks, The 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 or the wing backs thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.




For the wing backs today the objective is to provide the width for the team and keep the oppositon stretched as much as possible, both still have a defensive mindset so will be getting back into a back 5 if we lose the ball. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.


The focus of the midfield 2 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working 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 WB's stay back to prevent counters, 2 of 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. A CB 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 - Clyne for Rose - The wing backs stay back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.




82 + 86 Mins - Keita for Casemiro and Coutinho for Reus - Actively time waste and Mourinho the opposition.



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

If Losing



67 Mins - Ozil and Salah for Casemiro and Rose - The wings backs act as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v Everton

Injuries: Jorginho, Drinkwater, Pepe, Son

-------------------- Ter Stegen
--------- Smalling - Mustafi - Cahill
Cancelo - Strootman - R Sanches - Hector
------------------------ D Silva
---------- Aubameyang - Immobile

Subs: Rulli, Ginter, Trippier, Wilshere, Xhaka, Lucas, D Costa

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

A tough but winnable game today against Everton, hopefully our back three will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.

We are playing a 3-4-1-2 today, Ter Stegen in goal, Smalling, Mustafi and Cahill in the back three, Cancelo and Hector as wingbacks, Renato Sanches and Strootman anchoring the midfield, with David Silva in attacking midfield off of Aubameyang and Immobile upfront.

This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win 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 Aubameyang and Immobile.

Smalling/Mustafi/Cahill - Cahill and Smalling to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Mustafi 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/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 as he will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Aubameyang/Immobile and link with Sanches/Strootman. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

R Sanches/Strootman - Sanches 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, Sanches to burst forward to join the front three on occasion and bring the ball to create space for others.

Silva - Playing at AM, with the trickery to beat the Everton fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Aubameyang and Immobile with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Sanches/Strootman, and capitalise on the space Aubameyang and Immobile's presence will create for you.

Aubameyang/Immobile - 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 on occasion. Try and link with each other to create opportunities.

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

Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Immobile off, Xhaka on. 5-3-1-1, wingbacks to fullback, Xhaka in midfield alongside Strootman and Sanches, Silva behind Aubameyang.

If drawing: Smalling and Immobile off, Lucas Moura and Douglas Costa on. Change to 4-2-3-1, Cancelo - Mustafi - Cahill - Hector, Strootman and Sanches in midfield, Lucas - D Silva - D Costa behind Aubameyang upfront.

If losing: Strootman, Mustafi and Smalling off, Wilshere, Lucas and D Costa on. 3-1-4-2, Cancelo - Cahill - Hector, Wilshere the playmaker, Lucas - D Silva - R Sanches - D Costa behind Aubameyang and Immobile upfront. Push for goals.

BRIGHTON AND HOVE ALBION v Birmingham

Injuries: Corchia, Walcott, Krychowiak, Berardi

Cech
Holding - Glik - Sokratis
Cedric - Matic - Matuidi - Bernat
Lallana - Payet
Falcao

Subs: Trapp, Zouma, Gerhardt, Fellaini, Redmond, Richarlison, Gabbiadini

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

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

Playing a positive 3-4-2-1, Cech in goal, Holding, Glik and Sokratis across the back, Cedric and Bernat as wingbacks, Matic and Matuidi in midfield, Lallana and Payet behind Falcao upfront.

This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Birmingham have some world class players in their side although we have some class players of our own to hurt them and cause them real problems. Our front three with assistance from the wingbacks should create plenty of chances, and in midfield we have a duo who can dictate the game in Matic and Matuidi, with Lallana and Payet ahead of them, we can control the possession and the flow of the game. Cedric and Bernat overlapping Lallana and Payet will give us the width and the attacking presence out wide. Falcao upfront to give us a physical presence and somebody who is able to hold up possession as well as create chances for himself and his teammates.

Cech - Distribute from the back to the wingbacks/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 Falcao.

Holding/Glik/Sokratis - Holding and Sokratis to mark their strikers, force them high up the pitch thus limiting their impact close to goal, and Glik 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.

Cedric/Bernat - Both of you to force the Birmingham 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 Lallana/Payet 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 Falcao and link with Matic/Matuidi. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

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

Lallana/Payet - Both of you playing as wide AM's, without the ball drop in ahead of the wingbacks to form a 5-4-1 but in possession get forward, get infield to link with Falcao, also creating space for Cedric/Bernat to overlap and get crosses in. When in possession link together and look for Falcao in behind the last defender, or get shots in. Draw the foul as Payet can be lethal from setpieces.

Falcao - you will be expected to occupy the Birmingham 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 Lallana and Payet on occasion.

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

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Lallana and Payet off, Fellaini and Richarlison on. Switch to a 5-3-1-1 with wingbacks to fullback, Fellaini alongside Matic and Matuidi in midfield, Richarlison off Falcao.

If losing: Holding, Glik and Matuidi off, Richarlison, Redmond and Gabbiadini on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, Cedric - Sokratis - Bernat, Matic the deep playmaker, Redmond - Lallana - Payet - Richarlison behind Falcao and Gabbiadini upfront. Push for goals.

Villa vs Arsenal
Injuries:
Bernd Leno
Edinson Cavani
Filipp Kohn
Ryan Kent

…………………………………Oblak……………………..
………………Manolas…Godin…D.Luiz………
……………………….Kessie……….Modric………….
Robben…………………Hamsik……………..Di Maria
……………………Higuain……….Griezmann……..

Subs: Hysaj, Jones, Gagliardini, Marchisio, Iwobi, Candreva, Mere

I expect Leffy to come today and sit deep trying to hit us on the counter, we’re gonna have to try and dig them out, it won’t be easy or pretty but hey-ho such is life.

Our set-up is pretty much a 5v5…it’s not as gung-ho or risky as it looks BUT it is potent up front and pretty solid at the back – yes a side utilising width maybe able to hurt us but looking through that Arsenal squad their only natural winger is Callejon and he’s out injured, so any other option out there is a bodge job at best.

We’re going out there to play slick one touch pass and move football, no need to rush it we have plenty of time to get the job done, as much as I’d love to blow Arsenal away it’s all about getting 3 points on the board..don’t force a risky pass just keep moving it about eventually a chance will present itself.

Oblak is a fantastic shot-stopper, tall but athletic one of the best of the next look coming through, will look to come quickly off his lines to collect any stray balls or close down the angles should Benzema wriggle free – that said Benz can’t finish his dinner let alone a 1vs1. With the ball he has the freedom to roll it out to the back 3 or go longer to the flanks setting us off on a quick counter.

Our back three are solid defenders but all 3 are decent enough on the ball so they will look for the short crisp passes forwards to our midfield, that said we will look to mix it up a bit by hitting those long raking diagonals by-passing arsenals midfield and setting us on our way..we don’t have full-backs in this side so Manolas and Luiz will have to shuffle wide BUT no wider than the edge of the box, Don’t get drawn massively out of position, they won’t hurt us out there so they can have it on the by-line no bother, let them cross it in..Ironically their biggest aerial threat is the LW Mandzukic….Godin will man-mark Benz, stay tight he’s a good back’s to goal kind of player to build an attack around so be prepared to nip in front and stop the ball reaching him. Crosses from the right wing (their right wing) Godin takes Benz and Luiz covers the back stick/Mandy – from the other flank Luiz closes down the cross, Godin attacks the ball/Benz and Manolas is the insurance policy tracking another runner into the box.

IF Leffy surprises me and lines up with 2 central strikers then Luiz and Manolas will man-mark them, who they take is their call and that Leaves Godin as the sweeper, yes it exposes our flanks a bit more. But we’ll make up for that the other end as clearly Arsenal will have one less player back.

Modric and Kessie are in for a long day they’re gonna be out-numbered and for long spells potentially over-ran but they’re taking this hit for the good of the team, Modric is the deeplying playmaker, caressing the ball like Casanova stroked his lover, Kessie on the other hand comes in as my muscle he’s the iron fist inside Modric’s velvet glove. If Leffy sit’s his boys deep that’s ok by me as it gives Modders chance to get his head up and pick his passes – if Leffy sends his boys out to press that’s all gravy as well because Modders will dink it over them (he’s got 5 of ours to aim at) turn them on their heels and let our forwards burn them. Kessie has a great engine on him and he’s gonna be allowed to go box-box safe in the knowledge that with 3 CB’s sitting deep plus Modric we have enough cover for him to push on.

Offensively with the ball with the ball they’re given freedom to express themselves no shackles on my front 5..I want them playing purely on instinct whether that be running the line or cutting inside, this a fluid front four plus the predatory Higuain.
Robben and ADM fit this system perfectly bags of pace, an eye for goal but more importantly they’re hard working, they’ll track back to half-way no deeper. I like Arsenal’s FB’s but they’re certainly better going forwards than defending and it’s this that will be their undoing as soon as they push forward and “lose” Robben and ADM they’re done for pace and the counters on..

Hamsik is the #10 and compliments Modders beautifully, whilst Luka has the longer range of an Alonso, Hammers has the lovely close control and crisp short passes to be deadly in and around the box to unlock even the stubbornest of locks, whether it be a nice little one-two with Griezmann or a slide pass through to put Higgy away.

Higgy is my goal-hanger…I don’t care that he doesn’t run the channels I don’t care he can look disinterested I don’t care that he’s carrying a bit too much timber, the ball drops in the box he’s under it, he’ll punish you – he’s got 4 runners in my attack geared to provide him with service. Griezzman is my 9.5 hard working intelligent player will link the play and shuffle wide to open up the gaps.

So in summary – the defensive block of 4 sit deep and force Arsenal’s play out-wide, in possession short crisp but fast passes to transition from back to front quickly. Higgy and Griez to press the Cb’s, Robben and ADM to drop and stop easy wide passes, and Hamsik to press the DM to stop play between the lines forcing Arsenal to go long. Modders and Kessie should then mop up the loose wayward passes and send us on our bikes quickly

Subs:
65 mins just for fresh legs

Marchisio > Kessie
Candreva > Robben