bm

count the geordies in

Wolves are in

Foxes are in

Tottenham are in too

Hull are in <ok

I could potentially form a Liverpool B/City U21 team to even things out

Plenty time for others

Wolves U21’s vs Merseyside Reds


…………………………Oblak……………………….
Iorfa………Rugani…..Romagnoli….Willems
……………………….Imbula……………………
…………….Cataldi…………B.Fernandes…………..
Gnabry……………………………………….Gray
………………………….Berardi………………………
Subs: Burgoyne(GK) Murru, Milik, Galloway, Grealish
Captain – Imbula
Corners – Berardi
Free-kicks – Bruno
Pens - Berardi


Tough start away at Anfield in this most prestigious of tournaments – LSTD is starting the early mind-games with his I’m only playing the babies but my man on the inside tells me it’s all a front and he’ll go pretty strong, end of the day the kids desperate for some silverware.
Tino Bambino has gone with a fairly strong line-up here, as he openly admits to wanting to try and do well.
Not fussed with pretty possession football we set-up today to soak up the pressure making sure there’s not any massive gaps between the defensive line and our midfield – making it hard for Liverpool to play between the lines – aggressive in the tackle as we want to win the ball as high up the pitch as possible, When we get the ball we drive forwards with pace and purpose, spreading it wide and utilising the speed of our wide-men – it may not be pretty but it is effective.

Oblak – Fresh from getting in the young team of the season – will be the man between the sticks, a tall confident keeper, good shot stopper…it’s all positive as long as we don’t concede a penalty.

The Defence:

A nice solid back four – 2 flying wing-backs and potentially Italy’s future centre-half pairing.
Iorfa undoubtedly Englands best non-chelsea player in their recent Toulan tournament success – will look to push on as often as possible giving us even more pace out-wide
Willems will mirror Iorfa on the opposite flank – if one goes they both go, we want to over-load the scouse on the counter and force their own wide-players backwards.
Rugani will sit as the spare man (if LSTD goes one up top) whilst Romagnoli will be the first knock defender.

The Midfield:
On paper not the most inspiring midfield choice but it suits our gameplan perfectly..Imbula captains the side today and will lead by example as our midfield destroyer – given licence to get forwards as this then enables us to put a foot in further forwards should the Scouse have the audacity to win the ball back. Cataldi has been likened to Marchisio and it’s in the box-to-box role today that I want him to operate – not shy of putting a foot in (as shown by his 10 yellows and 1 red in 27 games this season) has good touch and lovely range of passing for a youngster, should add a fair bit to my midfield. Bruno had a decent season in Serie A with 3 goals and 4 assists to his name and will come into the side as the midfield play-maker, looking to get on the ball and dictate the play.

The Trident:
This strike-force is all about pace – The hardest thing in football to defend against and we have it in abundance – This in itself will mean Liverpools defence will be wary about pushing too high up the field as we will murder them on the counter – this in itself relieves us of a lot of pressure as it will in turn leave their midfield and attack isolated unless they go long.
Gnabry is lightening quick and will be deployed as an old fashioned up and down winger will force Liverpools LB to stay back
Gray is probably just as fast but for me a trickier kind of player so will look to cut-inside more leaving Willems the overlap this extra movement will force one of their CB’s across creating some space for Berardi – who will be playing off the shoulder of the last man, looking to run in behind at every opportunity.

Subs: 65 mins regardless

Grealish > Gray
Galloway >Willems
Milik > Bruno

Means we finish off in a traditional 4-4-2

…………………………Oblak……………………….
Iorfa………Rugani…..Romagnoli….Galloway
Gnabry………Cataldi……Imbula……Grealish
…………………Berardi……Milik…………………

------------------Dragowski-------------------
Holding---J.Stones---Laporte---Henrichs
--------------E.Dier------Bazoer--------------
Embolo-------------Alli--------------Gabriel
--------------------Kelechi---------------------

R.Henry, Diawara, Coric, Gerson, Rashford


Alot of quality on show today from both sides, we line up 4231 against Welshys favoured 442 probably.

Dragowski in goal is a super shot stopper and for a young GK already a reg irl. Full of confidence which helps his back four. Out for high balls, punch clear what he cant catch and release our wide men early if poss. Shut down strikers and reduce there shooting angles.

A mixed bag in defence, we have experienced defenders in Stones and Laporte who will keep them solid. Laporte man marks the main striker allowing Stones and our DM to watch the second striker especially if he drops off. Laporte must stay vigilant at all times even when we attack as this will be a very quick game, always be mindful of the CFs movement. Stones sits just off and with Dier will keep an eye out for the SS/AM, just to make sure he doesnt get into any gaps or spaces where he will become a danger.

Henrichs and Holding at FB, Henrichs can attack whereas Holding is more defensive which is fine, we will allow Henrichs to attack at will as long as Holding stays back in a 3, Henrichs will overlap Gabriel allowing him to cut inside whilst Henrichs drioves down the line to get the ball in, either by crossing or drilling it in. Holding on the other hand will sit back and pass the ball forward allowing others to attack, he provides the cover.

Eric Dier is our DM, he sits in allowing Bazoer to be B2B, against 2 Cms of Hull they could easily go head to head but they will have two up top so he and Stones like said will be watchful of the Second striker leaving Alli and Bazoer to taqke care of the other two. Doing it this way we will always have one of Stones/Dier spare to help out. Bazoer will drive forward from deep, look to play neat one twos with Henrichs, Alli, Gabriel etc which will allow him to drive into the box, not to disimilar to Yaya of old, has it all in his locker, can tackle, pass, shoot, so as he drives forward Dele Alli also gets himself into handy positions. Quick passing will see them into the box and our front 5 will be a real danger. Alli can shoot from anywhere and isnt afraid to try, he will support Kelechi as much as possible and at tiems even be ahead of him.

Gabriel and Embolo are quick and skillful and will go at the fullbacks as much as possible. very, very dangerous on the attack and with Kelechi and Alli central we will go for goals, we should over power them in midfield, if they as expected 442 then we will have one midfielder spare when we attack so whoever gets into the space must make his team mates aware, good chance this will be Gabriel as Henrichs driving forward will allow him to cut inside to support Kelechi. Embolo will have more to do as not muuch support from Holding, he will be expecting a lot of balls over the top to chase and he has the pace to beat most LBs. Once he has the ball under control drive in and look for Kelchi, Gabriel or indeed dispatch a powerful shot on goal!.

Kelechi up top is one of the best u19 strikers there is if no the best, quality player and can create a goal from almost nothing. Willhave plenty chances today, he gets into space and the support from all around will be almost too much for Hull. head up , drive forward, go for goal. If not then look to hold it up for Gabril, Alli etc drivving into the box.

Captain:- Laporte
Pens:- Gabriel
Corners:- Wingers
FreeKicks:- Alli/Coric

Subs:-
60 Mins - Ante Coric for Alli, Gerson for Embolo - Same Role fresh legs, gerson a bit more trickery in his locker

75 Mins - Rashford for Kelechi

------------------A.Lafont-------------------
El Fitouri-Gumbau-RoShaun-C.Jackson
-------------Mensah---Hughes--------------
El Ghazi---------B.Silva---------Redmond
-----------------A.Fletcher------------------

Tuanzebe, A.Balic, E.Mor, D.Mitchell. Zivkovic

A very young Utd team, but a few that have come through the ranks together which will help.

The back four will stay tight and the fullbacks will only attack when in no danger, and one at a time we cant be left exposed if we lose possession. Stay tight to your man, Gumbau will man mark the striker very closely and RoShaun Williams will be the spare defender and help out if need be. Gumbau can play midfield as well and is comfortable on the ball so he will be allowed to take the ball out of defence and start attacks from deep.

Mensah and Will Hughes in front wiull help out defensively when called upon, mensah restricting the AM to as little as possible and Hughes hassling the other AM, when in pssossion pass it abput and always be available for the ball back to start again if need be. Confident in there abilities but nothing silly. Just pass and move.

The attacking midfielders can all switch about, do this to confuse there defence and run them ragged, all three good in attack, quickl and skillful, look to support Fletcher and make themselves available to him for pass backs or knock downs. Drive at there defence, show no fear, there will be teams with more experience in this competition, but, if we go at them, playing quick passing game, with plenty of movement especially in the final third we have a chance.

Ashley Fletcher is a good outlet up top, not to disimilar to Rashford, good movement, quick and strong look to hold off his man and go for goal, plenty movement behind him so look to brig others into play, try to make holes in there defence for them to move into, but if you get a sniff go for goal.

Captain - Gumbau
Penalties - Fletcher
Corners - Wingers
Freekicks - Silva

Subs -
Dimitri Mitchell for Redmond, E.Mor for El Ghazi both at HT same instructions as before

60 Mins -
Losing - Zivkovic for Silva 442
otherwise Zivkovic for Fletcher

Attacking 4-5-1. We have an experienced under 21 team, looking to get on top of the game and take the game to the opposition. A team full of internationals bar the full backs and Mere.

---------------- S.Rico
A.Toure - J.Mere - Elvedi - Amavi
----------- J.Mario - E.Can
M.Oyarzabal - Asensio - Correa
------------- M.Moreno

Subs. R.Oxford, D.Zakaria, Bentancur, Pjaca, Niang

We lineup in the same manner as the first team but with the two wide forwards deeper in attacking midfield roles, and Asensio pushed forward to a cam role. Making it easier for them to link midfield and attack.

In defence we line-up with a flat back four. Can the defensive midfielder in front, with Mario offering all action energy next to him. With great pace at the back we play a reasonably high line, push us up and make it hard for the opposition to get up the pitch.

Defence starts in the final third, Correa and Oyarzabal using their great work ethics to press the opposition high up the pitch. Asensio closing down the central options, as Mario behind looks to press up on their cms. Can behind sweeps behind the pressing midfielders.

One full backs pushes up the pitch pressing their winger on the side of play. But as the opposition push higher up the park, the team drops into a 4-1-4-1 formation. Can sweeping in between the lines as the attacking mids drop deep next to Mario in a midfield four.

Defensively the side narrows to the side of play, always looking to put pressure on the opposition. Make it difficult for them. Closing any space.

Attack

Going forward we look to get the ball to the attacking trio as quick as possible. Mario and Can seeking to collect the ball from defence and drag the team forward. The duo both possess great power going forward, and as the two most experienced players they will be key in attack and defence.

We always look to keep the width on one side of the play. The winger on the side of the play stays on the side line looking to stretch the opposition. Using their pace to get in behind the back four. One full back attacks at a time.

The front four will be very fluid going forward. The winger opposite play looks to support Moreno as much as possible.

Subs.

After 60 mins bring on Bentancur for Asensio. Bentancur in cm. 4-3-3, with the two wingers more advanced.

After 70 mins bring on Pjaca for Oyarzabal and Niang for Moreno. Fresh pace.

------------------Sommariva-------------------
Chambers--St Juste--S.Umtiti--K.Tierney
----------------Danilo----Rabiot---------------
Roberts-----------Barkley------------Fischer
---------------------Sandro----------------------

Grujic, Kenedy, Odegaard, Locadia, Berahino

A good chance for some to showcase their talents and stake a claim for the first team squad if they are not already in it. Some experienced players like Umtiti and Barkley in as well.

We have Sommariva in goal who is a big target to aim for, he oozes confidence and this will run through out the team.

St Juste will mark the striker, and Umtiti will be the ball player who will take it out of defence. They will remain tight when we are under attack! The fullbacks can attack if they see fit, Tierney is especially good and supporting the winger so he will be up and down the pitch, Chambers will attack sporadically.

Danilo is our defensive midfielder and Rabiot again is the playmaker a good combination once Danilo has the ball won, a little pass sideways to Rabiot who will look to pass it forward to the attacking players, both can tackle so dont let their midfield near our defence!

Roberts and Fischer are vwry quick and can score spectacular goals, so we have given them freedom to attack the fullbacks, Roberts tends to cut inside whereas Fischer will go to the outside and cross in, Roberts can score from distance with accuracy so on they go.

Barkley right in the centre is da bomb, he will support Sandro and get into dangerous positions, will link everything from midfield to attack and get Sandro into great spaces with his sublime passing. Will be a massive goal threat too.

Sandro Ramirez is quick and good eye for goal, will look to link up quickly with Barkley as the two will be a big threat today hopefully.

Captain - Ross Barkley

Substitutes
All at half time
Berahino for Sandro
Grujic for Danilo
Kenedy for Fischer

at 70 Minutes
Odegaard for Barkley
Locadia for Roberts

3 x U23’s
Mitchell Weiser
Yannick Gerhardt
Kevin Volland

Overview of our 4-4-2 formation v Chelsea

Captain: Stark
Pens: Selke
Corners: Volland/Brandt (Öztunali)
Free Kicks: Volland/Brandt (Öztunali)

------------------------------Semper
----Weiser-----------Stark-------Süle ------Gerhardt
----Volland-----Grillitsch--------Dahoud-------Brandt
---------------------Selke-----------Werner

Subs: Pears, Klostermann, Christiansen, Stendera, Öztunali, Chapman, Vlahovic

We are playing an attacking formation designed to outscore our opponent by including two strikers plus midfielders chipping with goals as well. Our formation includes four defenders; two centre-backs and two full-backs. In midfield, we have two central midfielders and two wide midfielders.

Using the right players for this formation, our team will expect to enjoy more possession than our opponent. Our centre-backs will hold a high defensive line while our full-backs push into the attacking half to link up with our wide midfielders.

Of our two central midfielders, Grillitsch with his excellent ability on the ball, impressive vision and his ability to distribute the ball to all areas of the pitch, will be combined with his equally impressive ability to tackle and intercept without conceding too many fouls. While his defensive stats are impressive on their own; his positional sense and discipline add to his traits, especially if one or both of our full backs are moving up this pitch.

Alongside Grillitsch we find Dahoud and its on the ball is where he’s really going to excel in this match. A terrific passer of the ball, he pretty much has every pass imaginable in his locker. His short passing game nicely complements Weigl’s ability to pick-out a long pass. Dahoud will weigh his passes to perfection, whether in our own half, under pressure, or on the edge of our opponent’s box.

Grillitsch and Dahoud’s security on the ball will be compounded by their strong decision-making. In a side that attacks at speed such as ours, they will rarely fail to make the right decision when it comes to releasing the ball – expect their timing and pass selection to be flawless.

In the wide areas Volland on the right and Brandt on the left will operate as unorthodox or inverted wingers.

When we are on the attack Weiser and Gerhardt our fleet footed and technically gifted full backs will use their very impressive pace to create overlaps, hence keeping the width down the flank in the final-third and look to supply crosses to the two strikers. Thus allowing Volland and Brandt, at pace and with elegance to drift inside from the flank and roam in between the lines where they can link up play and create chances by intricate play through the middle. Weiser and Gerhardt’s positioning in the wide areas should pull the opposition full-back out wide, thereby opening the channels for the likes of Volland, Brandt and Werner to exploit.

When we are on the defence expect Stark & Hector to use their pace, stamina and tackling ability to equally good effect.

Of our two forwards, Werner will run the channels and drop into pockets of space in between our opponent’s defenders and midfielders, while Selke works off the shoulder of their last defender, providing a target for the service from the flanks.

The opposition defenders will have to keep a straight defensive line when defending with no significant gaps in between them, so they cannot wander around chasing players into midfield. Their midfielders cannot get too close to the defensive line because they would be conceding a lot of ground in midfield, so we can expect a gap between their defenders and midfielders.

With Selke already occupying the opposition central defenders, Werner will aim to exploit the awkward spaces that defenders and midfielders cannot get into, without sacrificing the integrity of their defensive shape.

This is where the advantage of having two strikers comes from because the two strikers usually get good chances if they are efficient with their movement off the ball.

On 65 Mins; Klostermann on for Weiser, Öztunali on for Brandt, and Stendera on for Dahoud

That is showing some serious depth to my squad, and I’m looking for that fresh injection of pace coming into the last 20 mins or so. It doesn’t matter if we are ahead, behind or drawing at this stage – we’ll either need to bring ourselves back in to the game, push for the lead – or hammer home our advantage – either way it’s the same style of game right to the whistle.

If only I could read eh!

Just knock off the last 2 subs please

5 subs
Subs: Pears, Klostermann, Christiansen, Stendera, Öztunali

------------------Woodman
Vrsaljko--Mustafi--Manolas--Gomez
----------------Hojberg
---------Zielinski-----Milinkovic
ODembele-----------------------Suarez
---------------MDembele

Baba, Paredes, Lemar, Halilovic, Azmoun

Tactical Overview
For the first 15 minutes of each half we are going to try and blitz the opposition, pressing them all over the pitch and using the pace in attack to try and catch them cold, then then settling down into a 3 quarter press allowing the opposition CB's and Keeper to have the ball as much as they want whilst still pressing the other areas of the pitch.





Full Backs

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

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

Centre Backs

Manolas is the defensive leader and will be the one to control where the defensive line sets itself up on the pitch, if a team sets up to counter against us, we will always have at least 3 men back with either one of the full backs or the DM dropping in to make it a back 3, Manolas will compete with the striker for the aerial balls played into him, with Mustafi concentrating on winning the 2nd ball. When the ball is on the floor, Mustafi will be the defender who looks to meet the striker, looking to stifle his space and rush his decisions, with Manolas making the covering runs. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should look to take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space and retain possession with the occasional long ball to the front 3 thrown in to use their pace and keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.

Centre Mids


The midfield 3 will be utilising their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, being key figures in the pressing game and always making themselves available for a pass. When we are in the final third to keep recycling the ball and shift 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. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/AMs as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.

Wingers


When they are off the ball, the emphasis for both wingers will be to drift around combining with the other attackers to get little areas of space before using their pace to make runs between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Suarez, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece due to the ability of our set piece takers. When the opposite winger has the ball, the winger 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 blocking the passing lines to the full backs as well as keeping track of them when they go forward.
















Striker


When 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.
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.

Set Pieces


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





Free Kicks - Suarez takes Direct FK's



For Indirect FK's, same instructions as Corners





Penalties - Moussa is the designated taker.





Subs



If Winning


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




81,85 + 89 Mins - Azmoun for Moussa, Paredes for Zielinski, Baba for Gomez - Fresh legs with the added element of running down the clock.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Paredes + Baba for Hojberg + Gomez - Bring a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.

If Losing



70 Mins - Azmoun, Halilovic and Lemar for Vrsaljko, Hojberg and Milinkovic - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and we go all out attacking for a way to get back into the game.

————————————Scuffet
Ginter—————Christensen——Zouma————Grimaldo
————————---------Donsah
---------------Tielemans————--Loftus-Cheek
Williams----------------------——————---Ferriera-Carrasco
————————————Lukaku

Subs: Mammana, Blin, Charly, Lozano, Cornet

Captain: Kurt Zouma
Free Kicks: Youri Tielemans
Penalties: Youri Tielemans
Corners: Youri Tielemans


First game of the tournament against Tinos horrible brand of slow tippy tappy football, we want to introduce an energy to the game, play with speed, play with power, don't let them dictate a tempo for us. We will press from the front with the energy we have in the side and then use the pace and movement of the front three and RLC.

Off the ball we will set up to defend in a compact, narrow 4-3-3, defending the field in three separate areas, the two flanks and the central third, make sure that every inch of space is covered, suffocating our opponents and controlling the game even without possession. Defending starts from the front with Lukaku and YFC(or Williams if the ball is on the right), closing down their CBs with the free winger pushed up onto his FB and the two CMs closing the route into midfield, these two must work tirelessly to disrupt the two deepest Wolves midfielders, don't allow them to settle in possession, force rushed passes. Donsah acts as the spare man, his job is to sweep up in midfield, if he sees a pass on, he's the one getting there to close down and win the ball and put us back on the attack, playing on the front foot even in his deeper midfield role in order to force the AM back away from the front line. Designed to rush Wolves into long balls which our CBs will mop up, or more likely, balls to the unmarked FB, once we have Wolves in the wide areas we feel we can win the battles, in particularly slowing them down and make sure their possession can't be built up on, keeping them moving backwards and side ways until they lose concentration and the ball. When we defend the flanks it allows us to make things extra compact by shuffling our set up across to meet the Wolves advances, the key pairing here being the FB and wide man who go man v man against their opposite numbers, whilst the striker and midfield come across the close off the central route, making sure we have 6 men suffocating the attack, leaving our other wide man as the outball and the FB on that side tucked in alongside the CB allowing us to have a back 3. This will leave Wolves squeezed onto the touchline where they are at their least threatening, up against two FBs who are strong in one on ones and two hard working wingers, limit them to crosses which we can deal with, any attempt to go in field is blocked by the sheer numbers and compactness of our side, any attempt to find the strikers will be intercepted by our CBs who will always be on their toes, ready to win the ball and set up attacks with their good distribution.

If they get deep into our half we will begin focusing on controlling space rather than pressing their men, drop off and make sure their are no gaps to play through. At this stage we will look to make things narrow in midfield with the wide players tucking in, DMs(Tielemans drops in beside Donsah) covering the space behind so that Wolves can't play in the lines. Defence drops deep and the FBs narrow to the CBs, keeping the defence narrow and sat deep on the edge of our box means that Wolves can't use their pace to get through us, they will be forced into wide areas and we are strong aerially and can cope with crosses and sideways movement. Force Wolves to keep going side to side and backwards, as soon as the ball is there to be won, stepping in and looking to release Williams/YFC down the wings or Lukaku over the top or down the sides of the CB, our pace upfront is a huge asset on the break. Zouma will man mark the CF today with his power, Christensen will use his reading of the game to sweep.

Going forward we look to introduce a certain amount of freedom into the side. Attacks should start where we win the ball, this way it allows us to attack in numbers due to our high pressing system being compact, quick link up play, initially by getting wide before looking to come infield in the final third, either with a cross or cutting in and showing our creativity with one twos and little slide rule balls into the channels. This means that when we attack, we go down the side where we won the ball, if we win it central we look to get YFC on the ball, so with the ball out wide we have the winger and FB able to link up quickly to get us into the final third, both FBs very good at running beyond their wide man. Loftus-Cheek in the middle looks to go out to the side of the build up and act as a creative force, linking the attack, picking the right pass and using his quick movement to make him hard to pick up, dragging players away from the middle which in turn allows for Tielemans to have a little more attacking freedom in a box to box role, finding space infield for a pass in the final third, once found he will pick the final ball 9 times out of 10 as well as having a lethal shot and can also arrive late in the box in a Lampard style, with Ruben looking to make clever runs down the sides of the defenders to get in the box. On the opposite side of the build up the winger will hog the touch line, keeping things stretched, we already have Tielemans and RLC to play centrally, we don't need another. With the defence stretched it keeps space open in the final third and also means we can quickly come infield and as soon as the ball comes infield, either with a pass to Tielemans in space or RLC and Lukaku between the lines, the winger not involved with the build up must be on his toes and looking to run in behind, with his marker either being sucked in due to the play being on the other side, or just two slow in a foot race to get to the through ball against Williams/YFC, this can be a great weapon for us. Lukaku comes into the side today to give us a real focal point, grab the attention of the CBs and keep them occupied so others can sneak in behind, playing quick one twos with him. Not only that but he is a lethal finisher, when the ball comes infield look to run the sides of the CB and crosses will generally be aimed his way. Further back the likes of Donsah and Christensen(the rest of the back 4 too) push higher up so they don't become detached and vulnerable to the counter, by making it compact it's harder for Wolves to break through the numbers and in the two mentioned here we have players who can put us right back on the attack. Plan B if the high pressing doesn't work and we are forced deep sees us looking to use the passing ranges of Christensen, Tielemans and co to release Williams into space, if that fails we go 4-4-2, with Williams joining Lukaku upfront and Ruben playing RAM, this way we can look to go longer and avoid a midfield battle, hitting Lukaku and having Williams running off him, getting a front four at their remaining defenders in one quick ball.

Subs:

If Winning: Blin for Ruben 70', Blin plays in alongside Donsah. Charly and Cornet for Williams and Lukaku 75'. Lozano for YFC 80'.

If Drawing: Charly for Ruben 65', brings extra trickery into the side. Lozano and Cornet for Williams and YFC 75', fresh legs and two very tricky players against tiring defenders.

If Losing: Cornet for Grimaldo 60', 3-5-2, Cornet upfront. Lozano and Charly for Tielemans and RLC 75', these two play as advanced midfielders, Donsah holding.

Group A

Newcastle v Spurs

A tight one to call with both sides fielding some exciting youngsters. Newcastles highly rated Ousmane Dembels started the game very brightly and was giving Tierney all sorts of problems and he made it count with a superb solo effort half way through the first half, he beat Tierney hands down and cut inside and smashed home passed the keeper, Spurs were buoyed on by this and came more into it, Rabiot in particular was having a fine game, So whilst newcastle were doing well down the flanks, Spurs were controlling the middle, Rabiot and Barkley were inspirational in the Spurs equaliser, a lovely passage of play, then a clever through ball from Rabiot found Berahino in space, he got the better of the solid CBs and played it neatly into the goal. Was a cracking game after this but neither could find the winner

Newcastle 1 v 1 Spurs
O.Dembele(27mins)
Saido Berahino(Rabiot 63mins)
MOTM - Adrien Rabiot

Group B
Liverpool v Wolves

Two solid line ups and again some real young talent to showcase, and it didnt disappoint, two teams setting up at there strongest, Wolves strong and powerful, Liverpool quick and skillfull, it kinda nulified each other with both defences standing very strong, however where the game was won for Liverpool was down the flanks, just that bit of extra quality they were always going to get in behind the defence eventually, Williams getting to the bye line and a fine cross was swung in, Lukaku got the better of Rugani this time and sealed the game with a powerful header.

Liverpool 1 v 0 Wolves
Romelu Lukaku ( Williams 63mins)
MOTM - Inaki Williams

Hull City v Chelsea

A very tight game between two skilled and adventurous attacking sides. Hull were a constant threat down the flanks as Volland and Brandt steamed forward time and time again, giving Holding and Henrichs all manner of problems. Chelsea's highly rated centre backs held the fort for the best part of an hour before Volland managed to find himself on the corner of the box and he drilled a low shot across the face of goal that nestled in the bottom corner.

At the other end, Chelsea threatened consistently on the break with the pace from the flanks and the skill of Kelechi up front but a determined effort by Hull to get back and close ranks managed to quash even the most dangerous of attacks. Chelsea did manage to find a breakthrough eventually, though, with the introduction of Rashford and some tired legs. For the last 15 minutes, Hull were penned in their own half and a superb ball from Alli split the defence and gave Rashford the chance he needed to score late on

Hull City 1-1 Chelsea

Volland
Rashford (Alli)
MotM: Laporte

Leicester City v Man Utd

Even at U21 level, this was a game of experience versus youth as Man Utd Academy prospects and their young teammates faced off against a team containing many players who had been pivotal in Leicester City's successful breakout campaign.

This showed from the off as the City team were more composed on the ball and dictated play, stretching Utd around and making them really work to get the ball back.
That is not to say, however, that the game was completely one-sided. The attacking midfield 3 of Silva, Redmond and EL Ghazi switched positions often and this constant movement off the ball meant Leicester had to be on their toes at all times, though they were very fortunate to survive a few scares that on another day could have gone in.

Nevertheless, the result was never really in doubt after the 50th minute when a surging Emre Can run resulted in him finding Correa in space between the centre back and full back. From here, he dodged and weaved his way through 3 Defenders before finishing with aplomb at the near post. Lafont may feel there was more he could have done but it was a vicious strike and a solid win for Leicester.

Leicester City 1-0 Man Utd
Correa (Can)
MotM: Can

----------------Dragowski---------------
Holgate--Holding--Stones--Chilwell
----------Henrichs---Diawara----------
Embolo------Çalhanoğlu------Gabriel
-------------------Ganz-------------------

Mandragora, Bazoer, D.Alli, Kapustka, Kelechi

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

Holgate and Stones at the back, Holgate is quick and skillfull for a CB, with great marking abilities, powerfully built so marking the CF should be no trouble as he has to man up to him, will keep him away from goal and be on to him quickly as he comes forward so he can intercept any though he has of going for goal. When in possession he will carry the ball out and start attacks from the back. Stones alongside is fantastic in the air, so will mark any other big 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 go up for corners and are a huge threat.

Holgate and Chilwell at fullback, we must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks. Holgate and Chilwell are perfect for this . They will look to keep them away from shooting areas where is dangerous in any position. This is a vital clash in this game. They will be up against quality wingers so look to force him away from goal and backwards, Chilwell with his attacking prowess, will push his back, Holgate sits back a bit and allows him to attack but his marking abilities are sound, both have good positional sense and very quick, do not make rash desicions and will stay on their feet. Both FBs can attack. One goes the other stays (Chiwell more often then Holgate) 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.

Diawara the DM 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! Diawara 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 always a step ahead of every one else as he knows where the pass is going before he recieves the ball. Henrichs comes in he is v the second most advanced midfielder much the same, but obvs when we have the ball he is allowed to move forward and push him back, Henrichs should have a bit of time to look around him for the pass. Use his upper body strength to get him away from the player. He is solid in the tackle and he and Diawara should prove a very difficult barrier for them to try and break through. Pass and move always look for the return pass. When they have then close down the CM, he will look to ping the ball about so get to him before that opportunity arises. We have put Hakan in a No.10 role or just slightly withdrawn No.10 against there DM he must be strong, Hakan is an all round fantastic midfielder,, however he will look to take the DM on one v one drag him about open up spaces for others to drive into, with the ball at feet look to play quick one twos with those around him so he makes the runs into the box looking for that return ball that will get him in on goal. If the ball is played to him with his back to goal hold it up, draw the foul from the DM, if it doesnt come then look to lay it off, look to play the slide pass into Ganz. All three are good all round midfielders, But Diawara i want to sit in the hole with the two either side when defending.

Embolo and Gabriel 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. 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. When they have the ball look to stick close to fullbacks and stop them coming forward. Embolo is a tireless worker doing the tracking back, Gabriel isnt so good but if he stops the LB pushing forward then that will do. Always be looking for Hakan inside as the three make an awesome trio attack wise in behind Ganz and a scary proposition for the Utd back line.

Simone Ganz will get plenty chances, he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. Ganz is good in the air and two good feet, can score from various angles/ranges..All of our front four/five will be a threat today we must go for it and keep pace with the league leaders. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Gabriel and Embolo running into support. Hakan will be making his runs also so be watchful of him just to lay it off to the side

Captain - Stones
Penalties - Ganz
Free kicks - Hakan
Corners - Wingers

Subs:-
HT
Bazoer for Henrichs, same role
Kapustka for Gabriel same role

70 Mins
Mandragora for Diawara
Kelechi for Ganz

Comment deleted by Article Creator

Attacking 4-5-1. We have an experienced under 21 team, looking to get on top of the game and take the game to the opposition. A team full of internationals for Brazil, Spain, Argentina etc bar the full backs and Mere. We have gone with strength in defence, Walace and the fbs offering great power at the back. Going forward we have pace on the wings and up top, with Asensio and Mario looking to be the two playmakers in midfield.

---------------- S.Rico
A.Toure - J.Mere - Elvedi - Amavi
----------- J.Mario – Walace
M.Oyarzabal - Asensio - Correa
------------- M.Moreno

Subs. Lemos, D.Zakaria, M.Benassi, Pjaca, Niang

We lineup in the same manner as the first team but with the two wide forwards deeper in attacking midfield roles, and Asensio pushed forward to a cam role. Making it easier for them to link midfield and attack.

In defence we line-up with a flat back four. Walace the defensive midfielder in front, with Mario offering all action energy next to him. With great pace at the back we play a reasonably high line, push us up and make it hard for the opposition to get up the pitch.

Defence starts in the final third, Correa and Oyarzabal using their great work ethics to press the opposition high up the pitch. Asensio closing down the central options, as Mario behind looks to press up on their cms. Can behind sweeps behind the pressing midfielders.

One full backs pushes up the pitch pressing their winger on the side of play. But as the opposition push higher up the park, the team drops into a 4-1-4-1 formation. Walace sweeping in between the lines as the attacking mids drop deep next to Mario in a midfield four.

Defensively the side narrows to the side of play, always looking to put pressure on the opposition. Make it difficult for them. Closing any space.

Attack

Going forward we look to get the ball to the attacking trio as quick as possible. Mario and Can seeking to collect the ball from defence and drag the team forward. The duo both possess great power going forward, and as the two most experienced players they will be key in attack and defence.

We always look to keep the width on one side of the play. The winger on the side of the play stays on the side line looking to stretch the opposition. Using their pace to get in behind the back four. One full back attacks at a time.

The front four will be very fluid going forward. The winger opposite play looks to support Moreno as much as possible.

Subs.

After 60 mins bring on Benassi for Asensio. Benassi in cm. 4-3-3, with the two wingers more advanced.

After 70 mins bring on Pjaca for Oyarzabal and Niang for Moreno. Fresh pace

--------------------Hassan------------------
Fabinho----Oxford----Umtiti----Tierney
Roberts-----Danilo----Grujic----Fischer
-------------------Odegaard-----------------
---------------------Sandro-------------------

Chambers, Kenedy, Locadia, Gerson, A.Silva.

We have Hassan in goal who is a big target to aim for, he oozes confidence and this will run through out the team. Will dominate his box and look to start quick counter attacks from the back.

Oxford will mark the striker, and Umtiti will be the ball player who will take it out of defence. Both comfortable on the ball and strong in the tackle. They will remain tight when we are under attack! The fullbacks can attack if they see fit, Tierney is especially good and supporting the winger so he will be up and down the pitch, Fabinho will attack sporadically. When they do attack, get beyond the wingers and scream for the ball even if it is just a decoy for the wingers. Defend as a four, stay in a line and stay strong.

Danilo is our defensive midfielder and Gruijic is the playmaker a good combination once Danilo has the ball won, a little pass sideways to Grujic who will look to pass it forward to the attacking players, both can tackle so dont let their midfield near our defence! Grujic likes to support the striker and AM so he will be making the late runs into the danger area.

Roberts and Fischer are very quick and can score spectacular goals, so we have given them freedom to attack the fullbacks, Roberts tends to cut inside whereas Fischer will go to the outside and cross in, Roberts can score from distance with accuracy so on they go.

We defend as a team, it isnt all about attack, so again a strong 4 in a line when we defend, two banks of 4 are always difficult to penetrate.

Odegaard right in the centre is in a totally free role and license to roam, he will support Sandro and get into dangerous positions, will link everything from midfield to attack and get Sandro into great spaces with his sublime passing. Will be a massive goal threat too. When we defend I want him to harrass the DM and not allow him any time on the ball.

Sandro Ramirez has alot to prove, he is quick and good eye for goal, will look to link up quickly with Odegaard as the two will be a big threat today hopefully. All about movement as the pair look to put away the chances to win this game. ALways stays on the last man moving across the line.

Captain - Samuel Umtiti

Substitutes
At Half Time
Kenedy for Fischer
Locadia for Roberts
Gerson for Odegaard

70 Minutes
Andre Silva for Sandro

comment by Fan Gillhaus 1903 (U3339)
posted 1 day, 19 hours ago
------------------Lafont-------------------
Mensah--Rudiger--Gumbau--Jackson
------------Hughes--Prowse-------------
Santiago-------L.Jovic-------Emre Mor
-----------------Berahino-----------------

B.Silva, Redmond, Larsson, D.Mitchell, A.Fletcher

A very young Utd team, but a few that have come through the ranks together which will help.

The back four will stay tight and the fullbacks will only attack when in no danger, and one at a time we cant be left exposed if we lose possession. Stay tight to your man, Gumbau will man mark the striker very closely and Rudiger will be the spare defender and help out if need be. Gumbau can play midfield as well and is comfortable on the ball so he will be allowed to take the ball out of defence and start attacks from deep.

Prowse and Will Hughes in front will help out defensively when called upon, Prowse restricting the AM to as little as possible and Hughes hassling the other AM, when in possession pass it about and always be available for the ball back to start again if need be. Confident in there abilities but nothing silly. Just pass and move.

The wingers can switch about at will and use speed and good technique to get passed there markers, do this to confuse there defence and run them ragged, all three good in attack, quickl and skillful, look to support Berahino and make themselves available to him for pass backs or knock downs. Drive at there defence, show no fear, there will be teams with more experience in this competition, but, if we go at them, playing quick passing game, with plenty of movement especially in the final third we have a chance. Jovic I want just off Berahino, support him as much as possible, Berahino is lightening quick so look to pick him out with precise passing into the gaps for Berahino to latch on to.


Berahino is a good outlet up top, good movement, quick and strong look to hold off his man and go for goal, plenty movement behind him so look to brig others into play, try to make holes in there defence for them to move into, but if you get a sniff go for goal.

Captain:- Gumbau
Penalties:- Luka Jovic
Free Kicks - Luka Jovic
Corners - Wingers

Subs:-
HT
Redmond for Santiago
J.Larsson for Emre Mor

70 Mins
A.Fletcher for Berahino
----------------------------------------------------------------------

discard the Silva sub