Attacking high press 3-5-2

We go with an attacking side, that will press the opposition in high areas of the park, this will be important to ensuring our dominance on the game. We want to get at the City defence so we stick with our usual formation with two strikers. Our side is firstly solid at the back but more importantly gives us a team to go and take the game to City. We go with a side with a high work rate, full of energy to press from the front. The defence starts with the front two and Bernardo behind with their all action styles.

The team is setup with 3 cbs comfortable on the ball, 3 central midfield players who love to control possession, wing backs providing width and two strikers. We play to control the game, starting with the back 3 in attack and the forwards in defence.

We look to overload the City defence with our attacking players. With a high tempo team we look to push them back. Keep them locked in their own half. With our quality and numbers; two strikers, and a midfield 5, we can dominate midfield. The front two will be crucial in creating gaps in their defence, with two forwards occupying their cbs, this will create space for Bernardo in AM to get forward, and also for the wingers when they get around the box.

A dangerous front 5 full of pace, we aim to get at the City goal. When we lose the ball, we use the pace and all action styles to win it back quickly. Don't let them get out. Leave them tired chasing our speedy attackers, and more importantly chasing the ball. Win it back before they can counter or shut them down so we can get back. If they go long our back 3 will dominate with their strength.

Our formation gives us a solid base, with three strong defenders tasked with remaining strong at the back, and in front Rodri will be the defensive midfielder always offering cover. This will help us guard against counter as rather than having two cbs with fbs attacking we have 3 solid defenders and a dm back. The back 4 are powerful and pacey, and will bully their forwards.

This set up means we will be more direct, the back three are all excellent in possession and in Rodri and Thiago in front they have players comfortable coming deep and taking the ball from the defence. From here we will vary our play. An important variation to our play will also be the long ball, Neuer is fantastic at thsi, and Laporte, Thiago and Rodri all have strong long passing ability to mix it up.

The front two set the tempo for the game with their all action styles. Both have the ability to drop deep and join in the attacks. Bernardo the AM, similarly plays with high intensity. We have three cms able to pick a pass, and with the ability to dictate the tempo of the game and control possession. Rodri plays as the deepest cm, Thiago with the intelligence to fill in when needed.

We defend in a narrow formation, limiting the space for City to play in. As City push higher up the park one wing back will drop back to full back on the opposite side of play. On the side of play the wing back defends with the wide cb in the fb position behind him.

The defence and midfield press as a unit, ensuring there is no space between the lines for City attacking mids. When defending, Rodri thy plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area. Bernardo will play ball side of Thiago and always press the passing lanes. One of Lautaro/Dybala looks to sit on their dm, simply take him out the game.

When we win the ball we attack at pace. The wbs look to aim their crosses for the man, no hopefully high crosses, they have to either direct them low and or cross in front of the man for the striker to dive on to. They will be deliberate in their play, get to the byline and cutting back rather than crossing where possible.

--------------------- Neuer ------------------
----------------------------------------------
-------- Varane -- N.Sule — Laporte ------
------------------------------------------------
Carvajal ----- Rodri --- Thiago ---- Grimaldo
------------------- Bernardo.S -------------
------------------------------------------------
------------- P.Dybala --- Lautaro.M -------

Subs. Schmeichel, Bastoni, Palacios, L.Sane, Gnabry, Jesus

Defence

When we lose the ball high up the park we always look to win it back straight away, don’t give City a chance to counter. The closest 2/3 players press. Allowing others to get back into position behind the ball. Neuer also guards against hopeful long balls over the top in his sweeper keeper role.


In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.

When City get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation set out above. Our defence have fantastic pace up against their forwards, bide their time, not diving in. In this 4-4-1-1 formation, as above.

Attack

We counter quickly when we win the ball, using the width to stretch the play and create space for Dybala and Bernardo in pockets of space centrally. When we go wide, both Dybala and Lautaro in the box getting on the end of passes or crosses. Wbs look to cross low or pass to their man, as their cbs will dominate in the air.

Subs.
If winning after 67 mins bring on Jesus for Lautaro. Fresh pace to get at the opposition.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Gnabry for Dybala. More pace. 3421 with Gnabry adding more width to stretch the game against tiring legs.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Palacios for Thiago, fresh energy in Cm to see game out.


If drawing or losing after 62 mins bring on Sane and Gnabry for Bernardo and Sule. Drops to 4-2-3-1. Wbs to fb. Sane left, Dybala behind Lautaro, Gnabry right. Mix it up.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Palacios for Rodri. All action energy to give us fresh momentum.

PORTSMOUTH vs soton

------------------------------Areola ---------------------------
Atal---------------De Vrij-----------Ramos--------------F Mendy
------------------------------- Kante ------------------------------------
----------------Goretzka ------------- Kovacic ----------------------
--------------------------------- Bruno -----------------------------------
-----------------Abraham ---------- Ronaldo -----------------

Subs - Safonov, Lenglet, Diawara, Guendouzi, Adama, Fekir, DCL

CAPTAIN - BRUNO
CK'S - BRUNO
FK'S - RONALDO
PENALTIES - RONALDO

When we don't have possession of the ball in our half I want the whole team except the strikers 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 keep hold of possession and try and work some space. We have good ball players in the centre and they will help keep us ticking.

Defence
Areola in net, command your box and don't do anything flashy. De Vrij and Ramos bring experience to the backline. De Vrij will focus on marking the oppo striker and will look to stick close to him and to watch out for his attacking runs. Stay aggressive and not let him turn you. Ramos will mark the other striker if the oppo is playing 2 up front or to watch out any attacking runs of their AM if they play him instead.

Full backs
Atal + Mendy
Atal and Mendy will look to help both in attack and defence. Make forays forward when we have the ball in the oppos side of the pitch but track back when we don't. Get some crosses into the box as Ronaldo is very good in the air. Kante will be covering for you if you are out of position


Defence Mid
N'golo Kante
Kante will be tasked with protecting the defence. A true definition of never say die attitude he will be running all game and doing what he does best and win the ball off of the oppo. Cover for our fullbacks when they overlap and are out of position. Stick close to the oppo AM/their most attacking midfielder and pressure him as soon as he gets the ball. He will not be able to handle your relentless pressing. When you have possession of the ball quickly pass it to either Goretzka/Kovacic.

Centre Mids
Kovacic + Goretzka
Kovacic will be the more defensive of the two as I want him to focus on being the link from defence to attack. Main job is to get the ball from deep and look to open up the oppo with your superb range of passing. Play quick simple passes with your teammates to work some space in the middle or long balls forward for our strikers to run into. Goretzka will play a b2b role. Make runs forward and play pass and move passes with teammates and help the attack whenever you can. Make late runs into the box to try and score.

Attack Mid
Bruno Fernandes
Bruno will be playing as the AM today. I want him to use his great dribbling ability and passing to create chances for our 2 strikers up front. Look out for the runs of our attackers and make runs into the box whenever you can. Shoot from range if you see an opportunity.

Strikers
Abraham + Ronaldo
I want both the strikers to use their pace and play off of the oppo shoulders and try and beat the offside trap. Be aware of lofted through balls and time your runs as best as you can. When in the box use your quickness and agility to get into good positions away from oppo defenders. Play quick one two's with each other to penetrate the oppo defence. I want Ronaldo to stay upfront and just focus on attacking, being ready for penetrating passes from his teammates. Be aware of crosses into the box and use your superhuman athletic ability to outjump the oppo defenders.

IF WINNING BY 65 MINS
Change formation to 4231. Play deep and hit the oppo on the counter.
Take off Bruno and put on Diawara in DM next to Kante to give the defence even more protection. Adama on for Kovacic to play RM and Fekir on for Abraham to play LM.

---------------------- Areola ---------------------------
Atal--------De vrij-------Ramos--------Mendy
------------ Diawara ----- Kante ----------------------------
Adama---------------------------------------------Fekir
--------------------- Goretzka ------------------------------
--------------------- Ronaldo -----------------------------

IF LOSING BY 65 MINS
Take off Kovacic and put on DCL in strike. DCL will play in the middle of a front 3. Play close to each other and put a tonne of pressure in the oppo defence. Defend high up and try and score a goal. Swap Kante for Fekir aswell. Adama on for Abraham aswell.

---------------------- Areola ---------------------------
Atal---------De Vrij-------Ramos--------Mendy
--------------------------------------------------------------
-----------Goretzka ------- Bruno ----------------
------------------------ Fekir ------------------------------
-------- Adama----DCL-----Ronaldo -----------------

IF DRAWING BY 65MINS
Calvert Lewin on for Abraham
Guendouzi on for Kovacic
Fekir on for Bruno
Fresh legs.

RED CARD SCENARIO
For all off the sending off scenarios we will change the formation to 4311.
If GK is sent off take off Abraham and put on Safonov
If any of my CB'S get sent off take off Abraham and put on Lenglet in CB.
If any of my FB'S get sent off take off Abraham and put on Lenglet at FB.
If my defence mid gets sent off take off Abraham and put on Diawara in DM.
If either of Goretzka or Kovacic get sent off move Bruno a little deeper.
If any of my 2 strikers get sent off don't change anything.

SOTON vs Portsmouth

----------------------------------------Gunn-----------------------
Odriozola------Upamecano--------Kabak------Chilwell
---------------------------Aouar------------Llorente--------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pulisic---------------------------------------------------------Rashford
-------------------------------------Odegaard------------------------------------
----------------------------------------Jovic-----------------------------------

Subs - Meslier, Demiral, Sessegnon, SMS, Nkunku, Under, Kean

CAPTAIN - UPAMECANO
CK'S - ØDEGAARD
FK'S - ØDEGAARD
PENALTIES - RASHFORD

I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.

Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Upamecano and Kabak bring a lot of strength and pace to the defence. Kabak will marshal the defence and Upamecano will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs 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. Llorente will be covering for them when they go attacking.

Defence Mids
Llorente + Aouar
Llorente will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings but don't try any risky passes.
Aouar will look to pick the ball up from deep and use his pace and energy to dribble the ball out. Make runs forward and help our attacking players whenever you can. Play quick passes forward and use your agility to outmanoeuvre the oppo players. When not in possession of the ball I want him to sit alongside Llorente in the middle and protect the defence.

Wingers
Pulisic + Rashford
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Rashford will be looking to cut in from the left and Pulisic will be looking to either go on the outside and aim for the byline or drift infield. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of our fullbacks and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. Odriozola and Chilwell are no slouches attacking wise so use them! If you can cut in onto your stronger foot, don't be afraid to shoot from range as you both have the ability to score from long range. If there is no space to do so then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Jovic to get his head on. Help our FB's in defensive duties if the oppo winger is trying to take them on. Track back and double up on him or mark the run of the opposition FB if they try to make an overlapping run. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack.

Attack Mid
Ødegaard
Ødegaard will be playing just behind Jovic and will look to help him out in attack. Be ready for passes into your feet and shoot if you see an opportunity. Mix up your attacking runs to throw off the oppo DM. I want him to dribble with the ball and play 1 2's with the rest of the team. Shoot if you see an opening.

Striker
Jovic
Jovic is a striker that has the deadly combination of pace and power. He will look to use his strength to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them.


Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Kean for Aouar and SMS for Ødegaard to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212.

-----------------------------------------Gunn--------------------------------
Odriozola-------Upamecano-------------Kabak---------Chilwell
---------------------------------------Llorente---------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pulisic---------------------------------------------------------------Rashford
-----------------------------------------SMS-------------------------------
--------------------------------Kean-----------Jovic-------------------


Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Ødegaard and put on Demiral in CB. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Under on for Pulisic and SMS for Aouar to add a bit more energy into the midfield.

----------------------------------Gunn--------------------------------
Odriozola-------Demiral------Upam------Kabak--------Chilwell
-----------------------------SMS--------Llorente---------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------Under----------------------------------------------Rashford-------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------Jovic-----------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Nkunku on for Pulisic
SMS on for Ødegaard
Kean on for Jovic
Fresh legs to bring on.

*RED CARD SCENARIO*
Change formation to 441 in all red card scenarios.
If my GK gets sent off take off Ødegaard and put on Meslier in goal.
If any of the CB's get sent off take off Ødegaard and put on Demiral at CB.
If any of the full backs get sent off take off Ødegaard and put on Sessegnon to either LB/RB to replace the sent off player.
If either Aouar/Llorente get sent off just move Ødegaard a bit more deeper into CM.
If any of the wingers get sent off take off Ødegaard and put on Nkunku to either LW/RW.
If Ødegaard gets sent off keep things how they are.
If Jovic gets sent off take off Ødegaard and put on Kean in strike.

Bournemouth Tactics: Week 19
Captain: Felipe
Vice Captain: Guimarães

Team:
-------------------Ivan
Emerson--Felipe—Torres-----Iago
-----------------Guimarães
---------Henrique-------Reinier
Antony---------------------------Marrony
------------------Vinícius

SUBS: Cleiton, Khellven, Gabriel, Assunção, Pyerre, Tetê, Cunha

We want to play a neat crisp passing game at high tempo using our obvious pace to punish the opponent. Our formation will be a 4-3-3 that will allow our full backs to join in the attack when necessary and also offer us the flexibility to fall back into a more standard 4-4-2 when under pressure. We need to boss the midfield from the start and control the game with our own tempo. When in possession use the ball well and try and bring our wide men in to play. When chasing the ball press the opponent with urgency and all over the park. Don’t take too many risks and hold onto the ball. With our creativity and pace we will be able to open teams up. Wait for the chances to arise and take them when they come.

Goalkeeper: Ivan is a big mobile keeper and very agile. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.

Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.

Midfield: Guimarães will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. Henrique and Reinier will play just in front of Guimarães. Henrique will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Reinier will be the midfield magician. Clever, elusive and tricky we will look to him for creating the midfield openings with his eye for a pass. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition.

Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Antony and Marrony will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Reinier, Henrique and Vinícius in to play. They can vary their attacks by going wide or cutting inside as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Henrique may sit a bit deeper allowing Reinier to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF. As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.

Vinícius starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great big old fashioned centre forward. We will look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. An eye for a pass and not afraid to have a go from distance. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his power pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.

Free Kicks/Corners: Reinier, Marrony or Antony with Felipe, Torres, Guimarães and Vinícius to offer an aerial threat. Reinier and Marrony (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Vinícius

Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Gabriel for Torres, Cunha for Vinícius and Pyerre for Henrique, 3 like for like substitutions.

If losing (on 80 minutes) Tetê for Henrique and Cunha for Antony. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Cunha and Tetê offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.

-----------Guimarães
Tetê---Reinier----Marrony
--------Vinícius---Cunha

------------------- De Gea ------------------
-----------------------------------------------
Meunier - Skriniar -- Hummels - Hakimi
-----------------------------------------------
---- D.Silva --- Torreira --- Ziyech ------
-----------------------------------------------
--- L.Bailey --- Haaland --- M.Reus -----

Subs:
Muric, Bailly, T.Hernandez, Kessie, Gundogan, M.Diaby, Leao

We set up with a strong side suited to playing counter attacking football in a 4-3-3 formation. We expect the opposition to look to dominate possession which will suit our strengths perfectly. When they’re in possession our wingers drop in as we revert to a 4-5-1 formation, as soon as we win back possession we look to break at speed with our devastating front 3 and hit them on the counter.

Skriniar is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counter attacks, Both CB’s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking 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 with the occasional long ball to the front 3 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.

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

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

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

Our front three are blessed with great pace and an eye for goal. Our team will sit deep to neutralise the threat of the opposition getting in behind. This naturally means that the opposition will push higher up the field which will leave ample space for us to get in behind. We look to get in behind at all opportunities. Get the ball out wide to Bailey or Reus to break at speed as we look to supply our lethal finisher in the middle. Haaland will look to play on the shoulder of the last man, look to use his physique to get in behind and his ice cold finishing should he get played through on goal. He’ll be surrounded with have pace and creativity all around him so if the opposition drop off we look to push our wide players push up alongside Haaland giving us an attacking front three. We play a fast counter attacking brand of football and look to go for goals.

Subs;
If winning:
65 mins: Ziyech off, Kessie on.
75 mins: Bailey off, Gundogan on. 4-5-1 shut up shop time as we tighten up with a solid defensive unit as we see the game out and take the 3 points.

If drawing:
65 mins: Reus off, Diaby on. Fresh legs and extra energy.
75 mins: Ziyech off, Lacazette on. Switch to 4-2-2-2 with two up top.

If losing:
55 mins: Ziyech off, M.Diaby on.
65 mins: Hummels off, Leao on. 3-4-3 all out attack

Red card scenario:

In all scenario’s we revert to a 4-4-1 formation. Ziyech will be replaced with one of the below whilst our wingers drop back in a 4 man midfield. Little change from a tactical perspective as we form a tight unit and pick off the opposition on the break as they commit men forward.

------------------ De Gea ------------------
Meunier - Skriniar -- Hummels - Hakimi
Bailey --- Torreira -- D.Silva --- M.Reus
------------------ Haaland -----------------

GK – Muric
FB/CB – Hernandez
CM – Gundogan
WG – Diaby
ST – Leao

-------------------- Lunin --------------------
Cancelo -- De Ligt --- Bonucci -- Marcelo
----------- Verratti --- De Bruyne ---------
---- Sancho ---- Eriksen ---- Hazard ------
--------------- Lewandowski ----------------

Subs:
Whiteman, Konate, Can, Foden, Hudson-Odoi, Bale, Icardi

Captain: Bonucci
Free Kicks: De Bruyne
Penalties: Lewandowski
Corners: Sancho/Hazard

Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim for 3 points. We go with Hazard, De Bruyne & Sancho behind Lewandowski, offering a perfect blend of pace, trickery and unpredictability that will cause plenty of problems for their defence. We feel that this front four combined pose threats from all angles with plenty of goals in our lineup. We will look to dictate the play and take the game to the opposition. When they’re in possession we sit deep, our DM marshalling the middle of the park, breaking down the opposition and setting up us on the counter. We feel that we have the perfect set up to open them up on the counter with terrific pace out wide which will cause problems all afternoon for their fullbacks.

Whilst the opposition have some dangerous players we will look to significantly limit their impact by retaining possession, we will force them to track back or risk leaving their defence exposed when we push forward in numbers. We aim to make things uncomfortable for them and feel that limiting their ability to have the ball in attacking areas will severely limit any threat posed. When they are in possession our wingers drop in as we play a compact 4-5-1 formation.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with pace and quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Bonucci will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. De Ligt will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top. The Dutchman sweeping up from the back and immediately looking to get us on the counter with his fantastic vision and passing.

Our fullbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have supporting cover in behind with Verratti also drifting across from DM to offer additional support. If they play two up top our FB's will narrow, offering additional cover in behind the CB's. When in possession both Cancelo and Marcelo have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third. We look to draw the opposition onto us by sitting deep when they are in possession, limiting the space in behind and drawing them further up the field creating space for us to hit them on the counter.

Midfield:

Verratti will be our holding player in the middle. A top class player we rely on his fantastic reading of the game to break up the opposition play, winning back possession and setting us up on the counter as we look to get the ball into our creative players as quickly as possible. He’ll pick up their most advanced AM and cut out their supply line. He’s also a fantastic passer which will be key in winning the midfield battle and ball retention.

De Bruyne slots alongside him, starting in a slightly deeper role he has freedom to roam and pull the opposition apart. A player with superb vision he will look to get on the ball as much as possible, dropping deep and looking for the early long ball in behind for Sancho and Hazard. He has license to run the game and with Eriksen occupying their AM he has free roam in the middle of the park, looking to take apart the opposition or push forward and go for goal himself, with a fantastic strike from range we encourage him to go for goal with a potential thunderbolt on the cards at any moment.

Completing our midfield we have Eriksen in the AM role. With a plethora of big hitters around him we feel he has the perfect environment to thrive. With the opposition doing there upmost to contain Sancho, Hazard, KDB and co we feel Eriksen may find himself a little under the radar and given time and space he can be deadly. We look for him to play between the lines, dropping into pockets of space and supplying our forwards with Lewandowski ready to pounce at any moment.

Forwards:

Up top we go with three heavy hitters which is enough to give any defence nightmares, creative geniuses Sancho and Hazard flanking the predator Lewandowski in the middle. In one on one situations Sancho and Hazard are devastating and both have license to go at the opposition. With a powerhouse frontline we go for goals, both wingers will look to cause problems, cutting inside and going direct for goal one moment and driving down the line, bamboozling the opposition before whipping the ball into the box the next. We look to draw in opposition players, freeing up our other forward to pounce with quick incisive passing in the final third

Lewandowski plays through the middle and will have a dream supply line around him. The brief is simple, get into the box and do what you do best. With the number of quality attackers we have around him Lewandowski could well find himself in one on one match ups in which he’s deadly. Play on the shoulder of the last man and as always be on your toes in the box, ready to pounce and finish anything that comes your way.

Subs;

If winning:
70 mins: Eriksen off, Can on. Emre Can slotting in as a dual DM next to Verratti with KDB moving to AM.
80 mins: Sancho off, Hudson-Odoi on. Fresh legs as we look to finish them off on the break.

If drawing:
65 mins: Sancho off, Bale on. Fresh legs, KDB also pushes forward as a twin AM next to Eriksen.
75 mins: Eriksen off, Icardi on. We switch to 4-2-2-2 with Icardi & Lewandowski up top and Bale & Hazard on the flanks. Goals.

If losing:
65 mins: Cancelo & Verratti off. Foden and Icardi on.
Attacking 3-5-2 as we pile on the pressure and look to turn the game around.

Tottenham Hotspur v NORWICH CITY

Dubravka
Justin, Caleta-Car, Todibo, Lewis
Ampadu, Gueye
Brooks, Fornals, Saint-Maximin
Suárez

Subs: Woodman, Maehle, Mepham, Nández, Lamela, Cantwell, Vlahovic

Our defensive unit consists of Duje Caleta-Car and Jean-Clair Todibo paired up at centre-back, James Justin at right-back and Jamal Lewis at left-back, with Ethan Ampadu and Idrissa Gueye as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Ampadu and Gueye 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 Gueye can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Ampadu 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 Gueye’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.

With Gueye running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Ethan Ampadu.

Ampadu 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 Ampadu such a talent.

The attacking unit consists of David Brooks, Pablo Fornals and Allan Saint-Maximin as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez 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 Ampadu or Gueye, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.

Justin and Lewis can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Ampadu and Gueye can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both David Brooks and Allan Saint-Maximin, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Pablo Fornals our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Fornals 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 with his one-touch passing and quick flicks, and who will combine exceptionally well with Brooks, Saint-Maximin & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.

Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Brooks, Fornals & Saint-Maximin to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.

Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suarez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.

All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.

Subs on 75 mins
Lamela on for Fornals (NB. Brooks to AM, Lamela to RW) and Cantwell on for Saint-Maximin

Double substitution - Lots of energy and pace in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line

Attacking 4-3-3

At home we setup with a strong side full of pace in attack to stretch Liverpool and a midfield with the ability to control possession. We play with a fluid front three, looking to overload the Pool defence getting in behind their defence and targeting their fbs.

We look to play our usual high tempo attacking game and take the game to Pool. As you'd expect, possession builds from the back with the defence, and our midfield trio controlling possession. Rodri dictating the tempo of our play in the dm role, Thiago and Arthur offering the creativity and ability on the ball to dominate possession and create. Importantly all 3 are fantastic on the ball, allowing us to play fast flowing attacking football.

Laporte the man marker next to Varane who is free. In midfield, Rodri reading the play looking to win the ball back as the dm always the deepest of the trio, Thiago and Arthur will offer inteligence defensively, with the pressing in high areas important. Win the ball back from Pool quickly before they can get anywhere.

The defence will be patient on the ball, playing a reasonably high line, with good pace at the back and energy in front we look to defend high up the park. This allows us to take the game to Pool and aids distribution out from the back line.

Control possession and find space in between the opposition lines. Using the pace of our fbs and wingers to create space as we push forward. Creating space for the cms to push into and for the front three to exploit. In the final third Gnabry & Jesus have freedom to drift inside on the inside of the fb (between cb & fb) to get in behind. Dybala gives us an all round striker with the pace to get in behind but also play as a false 9, naturally liking to drop to deeper areas and get involved in play between the lines. This fluid movement of the front three will be key to finding space in dangerous positions on the ball in attack.

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 physically and mentally with our possession and high tempo play. Predominantly short passing on the deck, but varying our play when a counter is on.

Rodri and of Arthur/Thiago collecting the ball and offering the link between defence and attack, get Thiago and Arthur on the ball and get pushing up the pitch. But we also have great pace, so mix it up going through or over the top to expose the space behind them. Quick one twos between the mid and attacking trios, with a fb always overlapping.


------------—---- Neuer
Carvajal -- Varane -- Laporte -- Mendy
------------------- Rodri
------------ Thiago --- Arthur
— S.Gnabry -------——-—----- G.Jesus —
————————- P.Dybala

Subs. Schmeichel, Sule, Neves, Ceballos, L.Sane, Correa, Lautaro

Defending in numbers

When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone else bar Dybala gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and press them high up the park.

In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.

As Pool 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 Rodri 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. Rodri will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, getting across to cut out any danger Thiago picks up the most advanced cm. The winger opposite play comes inside and sits on their deepest cm while Arthur presses the space next to and in front of Rodri. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.

Attack.

Get the ball out wide, Rodri spreading the play, Thiago and Arthur dictating the play. The trio's movement will be key in opening up the opposition defence.

In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Pool. Get the fbs attacking. One bombing forward the other fb, remains a little more reserved offering option to go back and switch play.

The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game. We look to find space between their defence and midfield, committing defenders from there and playing killer balls.

We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Thiago, Arthur 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.

Subs.

If winning after 70 mins bring on Lautaro for Dybala. Fresh energy and power.

If winning after 75 mins bring on Neves and Sane for Arthur and Jesus. Fresh energy in Cm and fresh pace out wide. Keeping the shape.

If drawing after 70 mins bring on Lautaro for Arthur. 4-2-3-1, Thiago deeper and Dybala behind Lautaro.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Sane for Jesus.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Grimaldo for Mendy, more pace and fresh energy to get at Pool from deep.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Sane for Arthur. 4-2-2-2. Jesus and Dybala up top.
If losing after 74 mins bring on Lautaro and Sule for Carvajal and Mendy. 3-2-3-2. Thiago and Rodri in front of back 3. Attacking mid trio of Sane, Dybala, Gnabry. Jesus and a Lautaro up top. Gung ho.

-------------------------- Oblak ------------------------
Bissaka ------ van Dijk ------ LucasH ------ Gosens
-------------------------- Ndidi -------------------------
-------------- F. de Jong ----- F.Valverde ------------
Mbappe --------------------------------------- D.Neres
------------------------ T.Werner -----------------------

Forster, Mancini, Bentancur, Zaniolo, F.Torres, Martial, Dembele

Our game is based solely on possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with Ndidi ahead of them just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and our midfield will be in and around the half way line, Werner slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow us to dictate play, defend from the front, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.

van Dijk picks up the CF not much gets passed him, Lucas spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, both must attack high balls to get the ball away from the opposition big men. Fullbacks keep the wingers quiet, stop their attacks Keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. When they attack, only one at a time, they drive down the line in support of the wingers drive on the outside making an extra man. If either get caught up field I want Ndidi and de Jong to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. van Dijk and Lucas to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Ndidi sitting back.

Ndidi will be our deepest midfielder sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself available for a return ball from a deeper angle as he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. de Jong will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defence as best as possible, in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Valverde as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Valverde is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in an advanced No.10 role and look for the midfield/CB pass. He will drop back at times to pick it up and will look to his dribbling capabilities and power to get him around players. When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.

Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders our defenders are superb long ball passers, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Neres will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Valverde to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neres to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Werner who can beat any defender with power and pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Werner who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.

Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Werner
Free Kicks - Mbappe (when going for goal) de Jong from deeper
Corners - Wingers

Subs

Losing
65 Mins - F.Torres to RW and on for Valverde, we go 4-4-2 with Mbappe - Werner up top
75 Mins - Martial for Gosens, Bissaka to RCB, Martial to LCF 3-4-3 attacking

Drawing -
70 Mins - Zaniolo for Valverde to No.10, Martial for Neres

Winning -75 Mins - Bentancur for Valverde help stifle there midfield
83 Mins - Martial for Werner

--------------------- Ter Stegen ---------------------
------- Mukiele ---- Koulibaly ---- Kamara -------
---------------- Partey ------ Brandt ---------------
Sterling -------------- Felix ---------------- Asensio
-------------- H.Kane ------- J.Ilicic ----------------

Pope, Digne, Barella, Sabitzer, Thuram, J.David, Muriqi

Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team withevery playerharassing their backline even our front 3 and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially Partey, Brandt & and the front 5 further up the pitch in the centre as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards.

We go with qa back 3, Koulibaly is the central figure and the spare defender as B.Kamara and Mukiele pick up Lesta forwards, they can do this well and push wide as both can play fullback too so used to marking and can drift wide with Partey as an Insurance ahead of them, being strong in a back 3 will hopefully make them push wide and disrupt their play. When we have the ball look to distribute it forward with no messing about and dont get caught in possession, wingers as attacking as they are must help by tracking their fullbacks and stop them getting over the half way line. Kamara and Mukiele at times, may push forward but only when in no danger whatso ever

Partey's primary role in front of the defence is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defence where the opposition’s number 10 will likely to be operating whilst also being aware when the full-backs had pushed forward.Take care of of the No 10/SS is also a main focus, he isn't an out an out DM but he has a lot of grit and determination to his game so stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him.

Brandt and has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for team mates, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running they are expected to do and he does a lot. The box-to-box midfielder is more likely to be found on the side of the pitch where the full-back that is less efficient in the attacking third plays to provide balance on both flanks, he also has a mean shot from distance and isn't afraid to have a pop.

Felix is in a free role I want him to dictate proceedings in the final third, either playing the through ball to the front two or use the wingers, pass in between the lines and give them something to run onto as the drive passed the lesta defenders

Wingers are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area, I want them to drive on the outside and play as a natural winger not an inside forward unless supported by Felix who is pushing wide. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos. Use the midfield to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If eithe Kamara or Mukiele push forward they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using Ilicic and Kane to get into danger areas. Both wingers have fantastic forwards to aim for in Kane & Ilicic so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack. We go with a front two today, we need goals these two will get plenty chances, however they must put away. I want them to bully the slower/weaker of the two/three. Get into positions that they can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower/weaker 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. They can score from various angles/ranges even dropping back and from distance, with hopefully a few crosses coming in they can get up and above defenders for. Can both hold it up and look for runners, in particular Sterling and Asensio will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side for each other if they cant go themselves. When we defend I want one dropping back to take care of the DM and make an extra man in there so we are not over powered in the middle.

We must defend as a team tho, 3-5-1-1 with Felix and Ilicic both dropping back, from the front, everyone hot on the tails of the opposition, we cant give away cheap goals,so wingers track back and cover the fullbacks, even just to stop them supporting the wingers, we must drive into them and pressurize them into mistakes

Captain - Koulibaly
Pens - Kane
Frre Kicks - J.Felix
Corners - Wingers

Losing:-
65 Mins - J.David for Felix 3-4-3 attacking
75 Mins - Muriqi for Ilicic adds more power up top, Sabitzer for Asensio and switch with Sterling

Winning -
75 Mins - Digne for Ilicic, go to LB, 4 at the back 4-4-1-1
83 Mins - Tousart for Felix 4-5-1
87 Mins - J.David for Kane

Drawing -
70 Mins - J.David for Felix, Sabitzer for Asensio switch with Sterling
80 Mins - Muriqi for Ilicic

NEWCASTLE 4-3-3

___________Alisson
Trent____Matip___Gomez___Robbo
____________Fabinho
________Hendo___Gini
Salah______Firmino________Mane

SUBS: Wilson, Lucas, Origi, Ox, Minamino, Chesney, Shaqiri

Captain: Hendo
Penalties: Salah
Corners: Trent
Freekicks: Trent

The formation deployed today is so that we regain as much possession as possible higher up the pitch. We expect to have a fair portion of the ball so patience is key. Today we have pace all across the pitch to deal with their fearsome front three. We also expect the four behind the striker to drift around a bit, getting into positions where their natural play can cause damage. The striker up front presses when we don’t have the ball and the entire team will support him cut passing lanes to help win the ball higher up. The quality of our players will allow us to break through the oppositions press. When we have the ball we will want to attract the press and use the spaces that they open up to attack.

Full backs will get forward when the opportunity arises. Our full backs are good at feeding our forward line with their ability on the ball and we aim to utilize that with their ability to get up the pitch and tactical arareness. We also need our full backs to widen the pitch for us. Our centre halves are good on the ball, and a long punt every now and then to utilize our pace out wide is encouraged. Our right back will also tuck in to help solidify the team.

The DM will use his energy to overpower their midfield and be in charge of driving our midfield forward. Our midfield will be flexible, if one of their midfielders steps forward, one of ours will move into the space they vacated. The DM will be the link between our defence, midfield, and forwards and because of the way he plays, he will draw the opponents forward towards him to attack the ball, pulling their team’s lines apart. This will create more spaces between the lines for our midfield and forward lines to move into. The right centre mid will be the more attacking one in his box to box role, closing down space and cutting passing lanes with his incredible energy and also driving the team forward. Playing alongside the DM will give him less areas of the pitch to cover, and shorter distance needed to win the ball back to start the next attack. Both centre mids will float between the lines during the attacking phase just behind our forwards. The left centre mid will add a bit of finesse, with his ability on the ball and eye for threading balls through to our forwards.

By having our wide forwards up front when we have the ball it will effectively create space out wide. We would expect our full backs to sometimes go infield to collect the ball from the keeper, while one of the midfielders goes wide so when he receives the ball he will have time to look up and pick passes as the opposition midfield will be reluctant to press which will leave a man free in midfield. This can be done by a midfielder too, dropping deep to create a free man in the first line with time on the ball, ping it straight to the striker who can lay it off to the other onrushing midfielder.

If short passing options aren’t available the passing range and accuracy of our keeper will safely transfer the ball forwards via our full backs, wherever they are on the pitch. The keeper can also dink the ball into space for the striker or wide forward to control taking out 6 or 7 opposition players in the process.

The striker’s main role will be to create space for the wide forwards. He will drop deep into a ten to drag defenders out and create space for our wide forwards to run into. This will tie into our quick short passing which is aimed at dragging their players out of position and create space between their lines. Our team will always recycle the ball to keep possession and to keep the ball moving.

When we don’t have the ball we will expect our four behind the striker to drop into a 4-5-1 in support of our midfield. We will also create triangles to trap the opposition players that have the ball, cutting the passing lanes and others putting pressure on players that might receive the ball. We stop the oppositions rhythm and force them into mistakes with our pressure. To stop their counter attacks after we lose the ball, three players will swarm the ball carrier before he can get his head up to play. If they beat the immediate press when the team’s main goal is to push their play wide where they can do the least damage. Our midfielders are an integral part to our play, when we win the ball back we will create space and time for them with our team shape. There will be times when we are under the cosh and will have the option of deploying a bowl shaped 5 at the back, with the right centre mid dropping in to make closing down the opponents very effective.

Subs

70 mins: Ox comes on for Gini, our legs will start to tire, so will theirs, Milner will add box to box ability and energy late in the game.

75 mins: Origi comes on for Firmino, a different style of forward play for the opposition to think about.

If winning 80 mins: Minamino comes on for Hendo to close out the game.

If losing/drawing 80 mins: Shaqiri comes on for Fabinho and play 2 up front.

Winning -
75 Mins - Digne for Ilicic, go to LB, 4 at the back 4-4-1-1
83 Mins - Tousart for Felix 4-5-1
87 Mins - J.David for KanE

Tousart should be Barella

Comment deleted by Site Moderator

------------------------- Lafont -------------------------
Bissaka ------ van Dijk ----- Zagadou ------ Gosens
----------------------- Bentancur -----------------------
-------------- F. de Jong ---- F.Valverde --------------
F.Torres ---------------------------------------- Neymar
------------------------- Werner -------------------------

Forster, Tomori, Tonali, Zaniolo, Tielemans, Martial, Greenwood

Our game is based solely on possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with Bentancur ahead of them just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and our midfield will be in and around the half way line, Werner slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow us to dictate play, defend from the front, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.

van Dijk picks up the CF not much gets passed him, Zagadou spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, both must attack high balls to get the ball away from the opposition big men. Fullbacks keep the wingers quiet, stop their attacks Keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. When they attack, only one at a time, they drive down the line in support of the wingers drive on the outside making an extra man. If either get caught up field I want Bentancur and de Jong to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. van Dijk and Zagadou to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Bentancur sitting back.

Bentnacur will be our deepest midfielder sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself available for a return ball from a deeper angle as he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. de Jong will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defence as best as possible, in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Valverde as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Valverde is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in an advanced No.10 role and look for the midfield/CB pass. He will drop back at times to pick it up and will look to his dribbling capabilities and power to get him around players. When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.

Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders our defenders are superb long ball passers, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Ferran Torres and Neymar will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Valverde to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Ferran/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Werner who can beat any defender with power and pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Werner who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.

Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Werner
Free Kicks - Neymar (when going for goal) de Jong from deeper
Corners - Wingers

Subs
Losing
60 Mins - Martial for Valverde - we go 4-4-2
70 Mins - Zaniolo for Ferran straight swap fresh legs
75 Mins - Greenwood for Gosens, he goes up top 3-4-3 attacking

Winning -
75 Mins - Tonali for Valverde he and de jong drop back either side of Bentancur and look to control the game
83 Mins - Zaniolo for Ferran

Drawing -
70 Mins - Zaniolo for Valverde he goes to No.10 4-2-3-1
80 Mins - Greenwood for Ferran, Zaniolo to RW, Greenwood up top with Martial who comes on for Werner same time

Bournemouth (4-3-3) Cup QF
Captain : Torres
Vice Captain : Ivan

-------------------Ivan
Emerson--Gabriel--Torres----Lodi
------Guimarães----Henrique
-----------------Reinier
Antony--------------------------Pepê
----------------Vinícius

SUBS: Cleiton, Khellven, Murilo, Assunção, Tetê, Cunha, Gómez


SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Guimarães) who will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Henrique). In front of them Reinier will operate as the link between midfield and attack. This I feel will give us a better balanced midfield and while being absolutely defensively sound with 2 ‘sitting’ Henrique will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Reinier and attack. I think this set-up lets us link up quickly with our attack while at the same time that little bit of extra cautiousness means it will be easy for us to close the door in midfield with all 3 players as comfortable sitting and breaking up attacks if necessary.
We want to play a nice tidy and crisp passing game. Our aim is to move the ball forward as quickly and as effectively as possible. When we have the ball we will use it wisely and when we don’t have the ball then we will press our opponents all over the park with high urgency to win it back. We want to keep the ball on the deck and attack as a team and equally as important defend as a team. This team is bursting with pace. We will utilise that to our advantage and make the pitch wide and use our flying wingers to cause all sorts of mayhem. It will also be a tool that we use to hit opponents on the counter where we know we can out pace any team.
Goalkeeper: Ivan is a big mobile keeper and very agile. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: We will operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Guimarães). He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Henrique). He has a more conservative role this week and while being a little more constrained than normal he will still have the opportunity to bomb forward when the time is right. They will both have to put a defensive shift in and both are very strong in the tackle. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition. In front of them Reinier will operate as the link between midfield and attack.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Antony and Pepê will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Reinier, Henrique and Vinícius in to play. They can vary their attacks as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Henrique may sit a bit deeper allowing Reinier to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF.
As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Vinícius starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great playing off the shoulder of the last man he is deadly in and around the box. A bag of energy and very strong we will also look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his lightning pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Reinier, Pepê or Antony with Gabriel, Torres, Guimarães and Vinícius to offer an aerial threat. Reinier and Pepê (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.

Substitutions: (75 mins) If winning (and comfortable) then 3 like for like subs – Murilo for Gabriel, Assunção for Guimarães and Gómez for Vinícius.
If losing (70 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Henrique with Gómez and Antony with Cunha. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
----------Guimarães
Cunha------Reinier-----Pepê
----------Gómez -----Vinícius

------------------ Courtois ------------------
Kehrer --- De Ligt --- Bonucci -- Marcelo
---------- Busquets --- Verratti -----------
--- Sancho --- De Bruyne --- Hazard ----
--------------- Lewandowski ---------------

Subs:
Pickford, Konate, Foden, Eriksen, Hudson-Odoi, Malen, Cavani

Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim to progress. We go with Hazard, De Bruyne & Sancho behind Lewandowski, offering a perfect blend of pace, trickery and unpredictability that will cause plenty of problems for their defence. We feel that this front four combined pose threats from all angles with plenty of goals in our lineup. We will look to dictate the play and take the game to the opposition. When they’re in possession we sit deep, our DM’s marshalling the middle of the park, breaking down the opposition and setting up us on the counter. We feel that we have the perfect set up to open them up on the counter with terrific pace out wide which will cause problems all afternoon for their fullbacks.

Whilst the opposition have some dangerous players we will look to significantly limit their impact by retaining possession, we will force them to track back or risk leaving their defence exposed when we push forward in numbers. We aim to make things uncomfortable for them and feel that limiting their ability to have the ball in attacking areas will severely limit any threat posed. When they are in possession our wingers drop in as we play a compact 4-5-1 formation.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with pace and quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Bonucci will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. De Ligt will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top. The Dutchman sweeping up from the back and immediately looking to get us on the counter with his fantastic vision and passing.

Our fullbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have supporting cover in behind with Busquets also drifting across from DM to offer additional support. If they play two up top our FB's will narrow, offering additional cover in behind the CB's. When in possession both Kehrer and Marcelo have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third. We look to draw the opposition onto us by sitting deep when they are in possession, limiting the space in behind and drawing them further up the field creating space for us to hit them on the counter.

Midfield:

Busquets will be our holding player in the middle. A top class DM we rely on his fantastic reading of the game to break up the opposition play, winning back possession and setting us up on the counter as we look to get the ball into our creative players as quickly as possible. He’ll pick up their most advanced AM and cut out their supply line. He’s also a fantastic passer which will be key in winning the midfield battle and ball retention. Alongside him we have the classy Verratti. A great passer and defensively strong he forms the perfect double pivot in front of our defence. He and Busquets will control that area of the field and look to physically impose themselves on the opposition, winning back possession and getting the ball into our attacking players as quickly as possible.

Completing our midfield we have the instrumental De Bruyne. He plays in the AM role and has free roam to push forward when in possession. A player with superb vision he will look to get on the ball as much as possible, running at the opposition drawing them in and committing a defender before playing that decisive ball. We look for him to play between the lines, dropping into pockets of space and supplying our forwards with Lewandowski ready to pounce at any moment.

He’s also a great goal scorer, perfectly capable of arriving late in the opposition box to finish or striking a thunderbolt from distance. If the opposition drop off he has license to go for goal at any opportunity.

Forward:

Up top we go with three heavy hitters which is enough to give any defence nightmares, creative geniuses Sancho and Hazard flanking the predator Lewandowski in the middle. In one on one situations Sancho and Hazard are devastating and both have license to go at the opposition. With a powerhouse frontline we go for goals, both wingers will look to cause problems, cutting inside and going direct for goal one moment and driving down the line, bamboozling the opposition before whipping the ball into the box the next. We look to draw in opposition players, freeing up our other forward to pounce with quick incisive passing in the final third

Lewandowski plays through the middle and will have a dream supply line around him. The brief is simple, get into the box and do what you do best. With the number of quality attackers we have around him Lewandowski could well find himself in one on one match ups in which he’s deadly. Play on the shoulder of the last man and as always be on your toes in the box, ready to pounce and finish anything that comes your way.

Subs;

If winning:
70 mins: Verratti off, Foden on. Fresh legs in the middle.
80 mins: Sancho off, Konate on. Shut up shop time as we move to 5-4-1 as we see out the 3 points.

If drawing:
60 mins: Verratti off, Eriksen on. Extra creativity as Eriksen plays as a twin AM next to KDB.
75 mins: Sancho off, Hudson-Odoi on. Fresh legs and added pace to get at a tiring defence.

If losing:
60 mins: Busquets & Verratti off. Eriksen and Malen on.
70 mins: Kehrer off, Cavani on. All out attack as we look to turn the game around.

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NORWICH CITY v Tottenham Hotspur

Lloris
Maehle, Ajer, Rodon, Tanganga
Ampadu, Gueye
Sarabia, Fornals, Saint-Maximin
Suárez

Subs: Ward, Caleta-Car, Gallagher, Höjbjerg, Bowen, Cantwell, Vlahovic

Our defensive unit consists of Kristoffer Ajer and Joe Rodon paired up at centre-back, Joakim Maehle at right-back and Japhet Tanganga at left-back, with Ethan Ampadu and Idrissa Gueye as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Ampadu and Gueye 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 Gueye can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Ampadu 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 Gueye’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.

With Gueye running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Ethan Ampadu.

Ampadu 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 Ampadu such a talent.

The attacking unit consists of Pablo Sarabia, Pablo Fornals and Allan Saint-Maximin as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez 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 Ampadu or Gueye, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.

Maehle and Tanganga can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Ampadu and Gueye can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Pablo Sarabia and Allan Saint-Maximin, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Pablo Fornals our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Fornals 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 with his one-touch passing and quick flicks, and who will combine exceptionally well with Sarabia, Saint-Maximin & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.

Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Sarabia, Fornals & Saint-Maximin to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.

Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suarez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.

All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.

Subs on 75 mins
Bowen on for Sarabia and Cantwell on for Saint-Maximin

Double substitution - Lots of energy and pace in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line

SOUTHAMPTON vs arsenal

----------------------------------------Gunn-----------------------
Odriozola------Upamecano--------Dias------Chilwell
-----------------------Aouar------------Llorente--------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pulisic---------------------------------------------------Rashford
------------------------------Odegaard--------------------------------
--------------------------------Jovic-----------------------------------

Subs - Meslier, Demiral, Sessegnon, SMS, Nkunku, Richarlison, Kean

CAPTAIN - UPAMECANO
CK'S - ØDEGAARD
FK'S - ØDEGAARD
PENALTIES - RASHFORD

I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.

Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Upamecano and Dias bring a lot of strength and pace to the defence. Dias will marshal the defence and Upamecano will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs 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. Llorente will be covering for them when they go attacking.

Defence Mids
Llorente + Aouar
Llorente will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings but don't try any risky passes.
Aouar will look to pick the ball up from deep and use his pace and energy to dribble the ball out. Make runs forward and help our attacking players whenever you can. Play quick passes forward and use your agility to outmanoeuvre the oppo players. When not in possession of the ball I want him to sit alongside Llorente in the middle and protect the defence.

Wingers
Pulisic + Rashford
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Rashford will be looking to cut in from the left and Pulisic will be looking to either go on the outside and aim for the byline or drift infield. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of our fullbacks and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. Odriozola and Chilwell are no slouches attacking wise so use them! If you can cut in onto your stronger foot, don't be afraid to shoot from range as you both have the ability to score from long range. If there is no space to do so then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Jovic to get his head on. Help our FB's in defensive duties if the oppo winger is trying to take them on. Track back and double up on him or mark the run of the opposition FB if they try to make an overlapping run. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack.

Attack Mid
Ødegaard
Ødegaard will be playing just behind Jovic and will look to help him out in attack. Be ready for passes into your feet and shoot if you see an opportunity. Mix up your attacking runs to throw off the oppo DM. I want him to dribble with the ball and play 1 2's with the rest of the team. Shoot if you see an opening.

Striker
Jovic
Jovic is a striker that has the deadly combination of pace and power. He will look to use his strength to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them.


Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Kean for Aouar and SMS for Ødegaard to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212.

-----------------------------------------Gunn--------------------------------
Odriozola-------Upamecano-------------Dias---------Chilwell
---------------------------------------Llorente---------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pulisic---------------------------------------------------------------Rashford
-----------------------------------------SMS-------------------------------
--------------------------------Kean-----------Jovic-------------------


Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Ødegaard and put on Demiral in CB. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Nkunku on for Pulisic and SMS for Aouar to add a bit more energy into the midfield.

----------------------------------Gunn--------------------------------
Odriozola-------Demiral------Upam------Dias--------Chilwell
-----------------------------SMS--------Llorente---------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------Nkunku----------------------------------------------Rashford-------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------Jovic-----------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Nkunku on for Pulisic
SMS on for Ødegaard
Kean on for Jovic
Fresh legs to bring on.

Bournemouth Tactics: Week 20
Captain: Felipe
Vice Captain: Assunção

Team:
---------------------Ivan
Emerson--Felipe—Torres-----Lodi
-----------------Assunção
---------Guimarães---Reinier
Antony---------------------------Pepê
------------------Vinícius

SUBS: Cleiton, Khellven, Gabriel, Fernandes, Pyerre, Tetê, Cunha

We want to play a neat crisp passing game at high tempo using our obvious pace to punish the opponent. Our formation will be a 4-3-3 that will allow our full backs to join in the attack when necessary and also offer us the flexibility to fall back into a more standard 4-4-2 when under pressure. We need to boss the midfield from the start and control the game with our own tempo. When in possession use the ball well and try and bring our wide men in to play. When chasing the ball press the opponent with urgency and all over the park. Don’t take too many risks and hold onto the ball. With our creativity and pace we will be able to open teams up. Wait for the chances to arise and take them when they come.

Goalkeeper: Ivan is a big mobile keeper and very agile. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.

Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.

Midfield: Assunção will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. Guimarães and Reinier will play just in front of Assunção. Guimarães will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Reinier will be the midfield magician. Clever, elusive and tricky we will look to him for creating the midfield openings with his eye for a pass. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition.

Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Antony and Pepê will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Reinier, Guimarães and Vinícius in to play. They can vary their attacks by going wide or cutting inside as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Guimarães may sit a bit deeper allowing Reinier to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF. As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.

Vinícius starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great big old fashioned centre forward. We will look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. An eye for a pass and not afraid to have a go from distance. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his power pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.

Free Kicks/Corners: Reinier, Pepê or Antony with Felipe, Torres, Assunção and Vinícius to offer an aerial threat. Reinier and Pepê (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Vinícius

Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Gabriel for Torres, Cunha for Vinícius and Pyerre for Guimarães, 3 like for like substitutions.

If losing (on 80 minutes) Tetê for Guimarães and Cunha for Antony. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Cunha and Tetê offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.

-----------Assunção
Tetê---Reinier----Pepê
--------Vinícius---Cunha

NORWICH CITY v Liverpool

Lloris
Justin, Ajer, Vertonghen, Lewis
Koopmeiners, Gueye
Sarabia, Brooks, Cantwell
Suárez

Subs: Ramsdale, Tanganga, Adams, Höjbjerg, Bowen, Saint-Maximin, Vlahovic

Free Kicks & Pens – Koopmeiners

Our defensive unit consists of Kristoffer Ajer and Jan Vertonghen paired up at centre-back, James Justin at right-back and Jamal Lewis at left-back, with Teun Koopmeiners and Idrissa Gueye as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Koopmeiners and Gueye 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 Gueye can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Koopmeiners 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 Gueye’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.

With Gueye running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Teun Koopmeiners.

Koopmeiners 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 Koopmeiners such a talent.

The attacking unit consists of Pablo Sarabia, David Brooks and Todd Cantwell as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez 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 Koopmeiners or Gueye, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.

Justin and Lewis can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Koopmeiners and Gueye can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Pablo Sarabia and Todd Cantwell, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. David Brooks our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Brooks 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 with his one-touch passing and quick flicks, and who will combine exceptionally well with Sarabia, Cantwell & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.

Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Sarabia, Brooks & Cantwell to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.

Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suarez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.

All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.

Subs on 75 mins
Bowen on for Sarabia and Saint-Maximin on for Cantwell

Double substitution - Lots of energy and pace in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line

Attacking 4-3-3

Away from home we setup with a strong side full of pace in attack to stretch Wolves and a high tempo midfield with the ability to control possession. We play with a fluid front three, looking to overload the Wolves defence getting in behind their defence and targeting their fbs.

We look to play our usual high tempo attacking game and take the game to Wolves. As you'd expect, possession builds from the back with the defence, and our midfield trio controlling possession. Neves and Thiago dictating the tempo of our play in the deeper Cm roles, but also offering great offering the creativity and ability on the ball to dominate possession. Bernardo in front offers a high work rate and creativity to find space between the lines. Importantly all 3 are fantastic on the ball, allowing us to play fast flowing attacking football. The deeper cms are both intelligent and strong defensively, and the trio will work as a unit, the two deeper cms to close out space, with Bernardo in front pressing the ball.

Laporte the man marker next to Varane who is free. In midfield, Neves reading the play looking to win the ball back, always the deepest of the trio, Thiago and Bernardo will offer inteligence defensively, with the pressing in high areas important. Win the ball back from Pool quickly before they can get anywhere.

The defence will be patient on the ball, playing a reasonably high line, with good pace at the back and energy in front we look to defend high up the park. This allows us to take the game to Wolves and aids distribution out from the back line.

Control possession and find space in between the opposition lines. Using the pace of our fbs and wingers to create space as we push forward. Creating space for the cms to push into and for the front three to exploit. In the final third Gnabry & Jesus have freedom to drift inside on the inside of the fb (between cb & fb) to get in behind. Lautaro gives us an all round striker with the pace and tenacity to get in behind but also ability to get involved in play dropping to deeper areas and get involved in play between the lines. This fluid movement of the front three will be key to finding space in dangerous positions on the ball in attack.

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 physically and mentally with our possession and high tempo play. Predominantly short passing on the deck, but varying our play when a counter is on.

Neves and of Thiago collecting the ball and offering the link between defence and attack, the cms linking as a trio to push us up the pitch and play through the opposition. But we also have great pace, so mix it up going through or over the top to expose the space behind them. Quick one twos between the mid and attacking trios, with a fb always overlapping.


------------—---- Neuer
Carvajal -- Varane -- Laporte -- Grimaldo
--------------Neves —- Thiago.A
----------——--- Bernardo.S
— S.Gnabry -------——-—----- G.Jesus —
———————-- L.Martinez

Subs. Schmeichel, Sule, Laimer, Arthur, L.Sane, Dembele, Lukaku

Defending in numbers

When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone else bar Lautaro gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and press them high up the park.

In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.

As Wolves 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 Neves 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. Neves and Thiago will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, getting across to cut out any danger Thiago picks up the most advanced cm. The winger opposite play comes inside and sits on their deepest cm while Bernardo presses the space next to and in front of Neves. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.

Attack.

Get the ball out wide, Cms spreading and dictating play. The trio's movement will be key in opening up the opposition defence.

In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Wolves. Get the fbs attacking. One bombing forward the other fb, remains a little more reserved offering option to go back and switch play.

The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game. We look to find space between their defence and midfield, committing defenders from there and playing killer balls.

We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Thiago, Bernardo 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.

Subs.

If winning after 70 mins bring on Lukaku for Lautaro. Power and fresh pace to get at tiring defence.

If winning after 75 mins bring on Laimer and Sane for Neves and Jesus. Fresh energy in Cm and fresh pace out wide. Keeping the shape.

If drawing after 72vmins bring on Sane and Lukaku for Bernardo and Jesus. 4-2-2-2. Lautaro playing off Lukaku.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Laimer for Neves, fresh energy to keep our tempo high.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Sane for Jesus. 4-2-2-2. Gnabry and Lautaro up top. Bernardo right.
If losing after 74 mins bring on Lukaku and Sule for Carvajal and Grimaldo. 3-2-3-2. Thiago and Neves in front of back 3. Attacking mid trio of Sane, Bernardo, Gnabry. Lukaku and Lautaro up top. Gung ho

------------------------- Oblak -------------------------
Walker ------ Mancini ------ Lucas.H ------ J.Gaya
------------------------- Ndidi --------------------------
------------- F. de Jong ---- F.Valverde --------------
Mbappe -------------------------------------- Neymar
------------------------ Werner ------------------------

Forster, Bentancur, Tielemans, Ferran, Grealish, Martial, Dembele

Our game is based solely on possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with Ndidi ahead of them just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and our midfield will be in and around the half way line, Werner slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow us to dictate play, defend from the front, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.

Mancini picks up the CF not much gets passed him, Lucas spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, both must attack high balls to get the ball away from the opposition big men. Fullbacks keep the wingers quiet, stop their attacks Keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. When they attack, only one at a time, they drive down the line in support of the wingers drive on the outside making an extra man. If either get caught up field I want Ndidi and de Jong to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. Mancini and Lucas to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Ndidi sitting back.

Ndidi will be our deepest midfielder sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself available for a return ball from a deeper angle as he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. de Jong will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defence as best as possible, in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Valverde as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Valverde is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in an advanced No.10 role and look for the midfield/CB pass. He will drop back at times to pick it up and will look to his dribbling capabilities and power to get him around players. When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.

Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders our defenders are superb long ball passers, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Neymar will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Valverde to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Werner who can beat any defender with power and pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Werner who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.

Captain - de Jong
Penalties - Werner
Free Kicks - Neymar (when going for goal) de Jong from deeper
Corners - Wingers

Subs

Losing -
65 Mins - Ferran for Ndidi, de Jong takes up the marking role, Ferran to R|W and Mbappe up top with Werner 4-4-2
75 Mins - Dembele for J.Gaya - he goes central up top with Mbappe and Werner either side 3-4-3 attacking
80 Mins - Tielemans for Valverde straight swap

Winning
75 Mins - Bentancur for Valverde, makes a very solid midfield 3
83 Mins - Dembele for Werner

Drawing -
65 Mins - Dembele for Ndidi, 4-4-2
75 Mins - Ferran for Werner, Mbappe up top, Ferran to RW 4-2-4 attacking