Bournemouth Tactics: Week 4 (home to Spurs)

Captain: Benítez
Vice Captain: Roca

Team:
------------------Benítez
Emerson--Romero—Murilo--Lodi
-------------------Roca
----------Bentancur--Arthur
Mendez------------------------Oyarzabal
--------------------Gomez

SUBS: Musso, William, Ribeiro, Cáseres, Guimarães, Zaracho, 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: Benítez 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: Roca 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. Bentancur and Arthur will play just in front of Roca. Bentancur will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Arthur 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 Mendez and Oyarzabal 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 Arthur, Bentancur and Gomez 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 Bentancur may sit a bit deeper allowing Arthur 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.

Gomez 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: Arthur, Oyarzabal or Mendez with Romero, Murilo, Roca and Gomez to offer an aerial threat. Arthur and Oyarzabal (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Gomez

Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Ribeiro for Murilo, Cunha for Gomez and Guimarães for Bentancur, 3 like for like substitutions.

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

---------------Roca
Zaracho---Arthur----Oyarzabal
--------Gomez---Cunha

comment by JET (U1212)
posted 2 days, 19 hours ago
Team to MAN CITY (NEXT WEEK - I'm away on hols) (4-1-4-1)

----------------------- Ederson ------------------------
Pereira --- Marquinhos --- Maguire ---– A Sandro
---------------------- Doucoure -----------------------
Pepe -------- Maddison --- J Brandt -------- Koke
-------------------- Aubameyang ---------------------

Subs: Martinez, Akanji, Tierney, Willock, Ramsey, Vardy, Nelson

We have had a mixed start to the season and been a little unlucky. Today we feel we have setup a strong team with the right balance to take all three points from this important fixture.

Captain: Ederson
Corners: Koke
PK: Aubameyang
FK: Maddison

We will look to counter their press by using the pace of Pepe and Aubameyang. Whilst we want to control possession across the pitch, if the short pass isn’t on and Man City are pressing around the park, we won’t be scared to clip the ball toward Pepe and Auba. Auba is in great form in real life and can get the key goals today.

We’ve gone to a 4-1-4-1 formation today as we feel with the 11 we have a very strong and balanced squad to both counteract the opposition but also play to our strengths. We see a weakness in the defence of Man City. We have a great attacking setup to take advantage of this. Pepe and Aubameyang will lead the attacking outlets with their significant pace and brilliant movement and ingenuity to score in vital moments of the game. We feel we are superior in every area of the pitch and will take control of the game with our confident and well balanced midfield.

In goal we have a goalkeeper with excellent footwork, allowing for us to play out from the back, and two of the best central defenders in Europe that provide a mix of on the ball ability, experience, pace and strength. Maguire and Marquinhos both have phenomenal reading of the game, which will help to outsmart their striker.

Going forward Pereira and Sandro can offer a lot, stretching the pitch and with their attacking players with low defensive work rate, our full backs can have a lot of joy going forward. In midfield Doucoure will look to drop back and help the defence when the full backs are contributing to the attack. His job will be to marshall the midfield, keep the game ahead of him and give freedom to those ahead.

All around the park our team will work hard to help each other in possession. None of these players are scared of the ball and that should show, for example, if Sandro has it on the left, Maguire, Koke, Brandt and Doucoure should be an option for a short pass – if Man City press all these options, there should be room to clip the ball long towards Aubameyang, who will be on the shoulder, or switch to Pepe, we won’t be afraid to go direct to these options should it be the best opportunity, equally we will be patient and not give the ball away easily, happy to keep the ball with our CBs and GK and midfielders that are very comfortable on the ball, working in triangles until an opportunity presents itself. Aubameyang has probably the best attacking movement in the world, and so he will always be a handful for their defenders to contain and always getting into positions to score.

In central midfield we have Brandt and Maddison who have great dribbling and ball carrying abilities. They are both technically excellent players who will thrive off combining with the forward. Doucoure gives them licence to express themselves going forwad, but they equally both have the energy and technically awareness to do their defensive duties if required.

Koke is vital on the left to provide the team with balance. He will be working hard to both defend and attack and also help in the midfield battle, coming central when required. Sandro will look for the overlap where possible and then the Brazilian left back will look for Aubameyang with low balls into the box. The same will be the case on the right with Pepe, with the Ivorian so dangerous cutting inside onto his favoured left foot. The excellent Pereira will be available for the overlap to leave Man City defenders guessing when we attack from wide areas. Auba will always be lurking in the box getting on the end of low driven balls from the wingers and full backs. Stretching the Man City defence will only create more room centrally for Brandt and Maddison to create and dominate.

Marcelo is naturally very attacking and we feel the pace of Pepe will hurt him on the break and getting in behind.


Attacking shape example (an attack on the right – full backs influential in attack, Doucoure the security blanket)
Pepe cuts inside with the ball, with Pereira overlapping. Doucoure sits back to help blunt any potential counter to us. Modric keeps the game ahead of him to dictate the tempo, Koke comes narrow to help support the midfield battle, preventing the counter and offering himself as a possession retention option. Maddison (Brandt when on the left) will float and find pockets of space, Auba stays in the box, hunting for areas to apply the killer instinct. Brandt sits a little deeper as a possession retention option.

--------------- Marquinhos --- M Akanji --------------
---------------- Doucoure ------------------- A Sandro
-------- Pepe ---------- Brandt ---- Koke ------------
Pereira --- Maddison ----------------------------------
--------------------------- Aubameyang ----------------


Sub intructions:
After 60 mins – Ramsey for Brandt.
After 60 if not winning – Nelson for Maddison. Koke CM, Nelson LM.
After 60 if winning – Willock for Maddison.
After 80 mins – Vardy for Auba.

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

-------------------------- Areola --------------------------
Mukiele ------ J.Stones ------ Manolas ------ Marcelo
--------------- C.Tolisso ------- W.Ndidi ----------------
Gnabry ----------------- Malen ----------------- Coman
---------------------- Lewandowski ----------------------

Heaton, Guilbert, Pjanic, McGinn, Ferran, Barnes, Lukaku


Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team with two banks of four with Ndidi an insurance between the two lines and Lewandowski harassing their backline and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially Ndidi, Tolisso and Malen further up the pitch in the centre as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards.

Mukiele and Marcelo have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, Marcelo will do more attacking than Mukiele who will stay back creating a back 3 when we attack, Marcelo especially will bomb down the line supporting Coman, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Lewandowski. When Marcelo does go Mukiele tucks in a little to form a back 3 and vice versa They look to play one twos with the midfield which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Manolas will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Stones alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, both powerful defenders, Both will dominate in the air and both good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Both cbs up for corners, fullbacks stay back and a midfielder just sitting in front of them. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both CBs are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..

Ndidi'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, 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.

Toliss is our box-to-box midfielder and has responsibility throughout the pitch. Chosen ahead of Pjanic today, for his grit and determination aagainst a skilful high line from Arsenal and to help protect our defence. 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. 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 go. Malen main responsibility is to both create chances for the three attackers in front of him and indeed score the goals himself. Playing as a SS he will often find himself the furthest forward of the three midfielders and sometimes even in the number 9 role if the correct situation arises. The main requirement of Malen is pace & creativity; he needs to be able to play a pass that penetrates the opposition’s defense or dictates the direction of the attack These three should work well together and between them have everything a midfield needs. Malen will try and get in beyond there DM and support Lewandowski and look for any scraps coming his way.

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, Gnabry I want to drive on the outside and play as a natural winger not an inside forward. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos, the left hand side more so with Marcelo attacking the lines. Use Tolisso/Malen to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using Malen to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Lewandowski so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.Lewandowski will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to bully the slower/weaker of the two/three with the aid of Malen and the wingers and sometimes the fullbacks. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower/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. He can score from various angles/ranges with hopefully a few crosses coming in he can get up and above defenders for. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Gnabry and Coman will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side if he cant go for goal himself. But especially look for Malen and Tolisso driving forward as they time their runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.

We must defend as a team tho, from the front, 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 - Manolas
Pens - Lewandowski/Replacement
Free Kicks - Gnabry
Corners - Wingers

Losing -
65 Mins - Pjanic for Tolisso, adds a bit of crerativity in the middle
73 Mins - Lukaku for Marcelo, Mukiele to RCB - 3412
80 Mins - Barnes for Coman

Winning -
75 Mins - McGinn for Malen, Ndidi in between the lines and we go 4141
83 Mins - Lukaku for Lewandowski

Drawing -
70 Mins - Barnes for Malen. Pjanic for Tolisso
80 Mins - Lukaku for Lewandowski

------------------------- Oblak --------------------------
Walker ------ van Dijk ------ Lucas.H ------ Schulz
--------------- Fabinho ------- de Jong ---------------
Mbappe --------------- Pogba --------------- Neymar
------------------------- Cavani -------------------------

Gunn, Kehrer, M-Savic, Chiesa, Rashford, Martial, Belotti

Our game is based soley 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 Fabinho and de Jong 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, Cavani slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow us to dictate play, 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 and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly when we have possession, 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 must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. When they attack, only one at a time, as to not let ourselves be exposed, they drive down the line in support of the wingers. the two always make themselves available to the wingers. both are huge threat down the flanks. If either get caught up field I want Fabinho to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. I want both van Dijk and Lucas to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Fabinho sitting back.

In the centre of the pitch are Fabinho, de Jong and Pogba. Fabinho our deepest player sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, Pogba and de Jong have to be disciplined and lend a hand to stop them coming through. Fabinho 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 for a return ball from a deeper angle as he 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 slightly higher up the pitch, and our playmaker, he makes things tick in the centre, he will stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, make our midfield very difficult to pass through, protect our defence and Fabinho as best as possible and again in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Pogba 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. Pogba is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, I want him higher up the pitch today so 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 de Jong/Fabinho/CB pass. 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, 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 Pogba 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 on the outside to make up more attacking numbers. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Cavani who can beat any defender with power and what pace he has left and the other winger (Mbappe or Neymar) 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 Cavani who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, 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. We are quick up front well in the wide areas so when we hit their defence they will struggle to cope especially as the game comes to the last 10/15ins as defenders tire with the movement and the pace we do it at

Captain - van Dijk
Pens - Neymar
Corners - Wingers
Free Kicks - Neymar

Subs:-
As Spurs are not the quickest at the back, on 65 mins Chiesa will come on for Cavani, he will push to the right and Mbappe up top to use his pace

Losing -
73 Mins - Martial for Pogba, we go 442(424) with Martial up front with Mbappe as we really look to hurt them up top with the midfield pushing the ball forwards

Winning -
80 Mins - Savic for Pogba, he will drop back a bit and he goes to the right of Fabinho
84 Mins - Kehrer for Walker, sure that right hand side up at the back

Drawing -
75 Mins - Savic for Pogba straight swap adds a bit of height to flick stuff on to Mbappe to use his pace to get in and beyond the defence

High tempo total football 4-3-3

An attacking team full of pace, playing with a high tempo in defence and attack. We have a cm trio that are all strong defensively, giving freedom to our attacking players to get the best out of them. The central trio have the quality to dominate possession. We have a front three full of pace, looking to stretch the opposition and create space for our midfielders to exploit. Jesus offering a high tempo from the front with and without the ball, setting the tone for the team.

In the midfield trio we have the powerful Rodri next to the energetic Neves and Thiago. Neves and Thiago our playmakers in the centre. In defence Rodri drops behind the other two cms who press the play as the trio narrow, similarly in attack Rodri stays deepest but the trio do not play so narrow. We have a defence full of pace and great energy in front so play a reasonably high line, helping us press Toon in high area, and aiding distribution out from the back line.


We look to play our usual high tempo attacking game and take the game to Toon, seeking to exploit space behind their midfield. We have a strong side defensively and in attack, our team is built to give Hazard, Sane and Thiago the freedom to find the ball in space in attacking positions to hurt Toon. Thiago the most attacking of the cms, getting in positions behind their midfield and getting the ball to the front four in the right positions.

Shaw comes in at left back looking to keep Salah in his pocket again, the defence will be narrow when defending as we know their forwards come inside. Rodri will also be important working with Laporte to pick up Firmino when he drops into midfield areas.

Laporte the man marker next to Varane who is free to use his pace to sweep up. In midfield, the trio narrow in front with the cm opposite play dropping behind, allowing the other two to press with cover. Sane drops deep to add protection in front of the fb and next to the two pressing cms. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play. Win the ball back from Toon quickly before they can get anywhere.

Quick passing and moving to find space in between the opposition lines. Using the pace of our wide cms, wide forwards and fbs (one bombs forward at a time) to create space as we push forward.


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 high tempo play. We look to vary our play, we can go long from the back or Neuer to mix the play up.

We have a cm duo who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid front three, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space. As we move forward we get quick one twos in the opposition half. With this fluid front three, Thiago supports creating and linking the play.


------------------ Neuer ------------------
----------------------------------------------
Pavard -- Varane -- Laporte -- L.Shaw
----------------------------------------------
-------------- Rodri -- R.Neves ----------
------------------ Thiago.A ----------------
L.Sane --------------------------- Hazard
------------------- Jesus ------------------


Subs. Schmeichel, Gundouzi, J.Felix, Zaha, Coutinho, Ronaldo, L.Martinez


Defending high

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 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 Toon advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-3-2. Sane drops deep and Rodri drops behind the other two cms pressing the space behind the two cms pressing the ball, sweeping up danger behind them and in front of the defence.

Jesus and Hazard in the space in between the opposition defence and midfield, and either side of their dm. This will make it difficult for their to dm to circulate possession back to their defence.

Sane and the two cms (Neves and Thiago) are the trio pressing the ball, and look to force Toon backwards. With the two forwards left forward this is where we look to press the opposition into mistakes and win the ball in high areas. With pace to join the attack quickly and overload Toon.

When Toon 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. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.


Subs.


If winning after 70 mins bring on Guendouzi for Neves. More power in cm keeping us on top.
If winning after 75 mins bring on L.Martinez for Jesus. As Toon will push for a goal, give us fresh pace up top.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Felix for Sane. Fresh pace to get at Toon.


If drawing after 70 mins bring on Ronaldo for Neves. Hazard drops to AM, Thiago cm, Jesus lw.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Zaha for Jesus. Sane left, Zaha right. More width.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Felix for Sane.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Ronaldo for Neres. Hazard drops to AM, Jesus lw.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Zaha for Shaw. 3-5-2. Sane left, Zaha right.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Felix for Jesus.

Attacking 4-3-3

At home, we aim to dominate the midfield and control the game playing a copy of Pep's City formation. With great pace at the back, we play a reasonably high line, using our two pacey wingers to stretch the game and pin back the opposition full backs, creating the space for our get our central to dominate possession of the ball.

We have four of City's key midfielders from last season, while Danilo and Mahrez also add a former City partnership on the right.

Going forward we look to use the ability of our central trio in tight spaces to get behind the Hull midfield, and then play one of our attacking trio through on goal. We will look to spread the ball wide, get our wingers on the last men in defence. They stay wide on the touchline in the first two thirds of the park. In the final third they have freedom to stay wide or to look to get inside their man and through on goal.

One full back bombs forward at a time, combining with the winger to double up on the opposition full back.

Defensively we drop into a narrow 4-1-4-1 formation. The two wide men get back in to help us defend in a narrow shape. Fernandinho the midfielder dropping deeper behind the midfield four, sweeping up any danger in between the lines as the free man. The four midfielders in front of him look to press the ball, as the whole side narrows to the side of play. Closing out any space.

Rudiger is the central forward that man marks their forward, he has the pace and power to mark their most advanced forward. Romagnoli one of the best in the game for reading the play and mopping up is the sweeper of the two. Both importantly are strong on the ball.

----------------- Arrizabalaga
Danilo --- Rudiger --- Romagnoli --- Theo.H
------------------ Fernandinho
----------- Gundogan---- D.Silva
Mahrez -------------------------------- di Maria
-------------------- Cutrone

Subs: Henderson, Hakimi, Allan, Elmas , Adelaide, Neres, Benzema


Our defensive unit consists of Rudiger and Romagnoli paired up at centre-back, Danilo at right-back and Hernandez at left-back, with Fernandinho as our defensive midfielder screening them.

Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Fernandinho's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow the bank of four defenders and midfielders to maintain their position, ensuring the zonal structure shape is maintained with no space for the opposition to work in.

Attack
We will control the tempo of our attacking play. Looking to play quickly when we feel we can counter, or slow the play when the opposition are back in a solid structure.

One of Danilo or Theo can surge up the wings in the knowledge that there are three other defenders to cover. As they come up the wings, both Mahrez and di Maria who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box.

Our two central midfielders are excellent in tight spaces and will look to link up with the wingers, playing quick one twos to set them off into space, or taking the time to play daring through balls that will cut the opposition open.

Cutrone will occupy the opposition’s centre backs, holding up possession and looking to turn the defender and shoot. He’ll be strong in the air and look out for his teammates trying to pick him out from deep. He'll get in the box, and always provide an option for the wide players. The winger opposite play always looks to get into the box adding an extra option for the wide player looking to cross or create in the middle.

Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Allan for Fernandinho. Fresh energy.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Benzema for Cutrone and Neres for di Maria. Fresh power up top to hold up the ball and link play, and fresh pace on the wing.

If drawing after 70 mins bring on Benzema for Cutrone.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Allan for Fernandinho. Fresh power.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Adelaide for Gundogan.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Benzema for Cutrone.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Neres for Gundogan. di Maria to cm. More direct.

NEWCASTLE

-----------------------Chesney
-----Gomez-----Hummels-----Vert
Trent-----Henderson------Kante-------Robertson
-------Salah-------Firmino---------Mane
Subs
Zieler, Reus, Mount, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Jorginho, Suarez, Rose

Captain: Jordan Henderson


Hummels is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, the centre backs will always stay back to stop counter attacks but will take turns marauding forward as they are all capable of stepping into midfield. The CB’s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid sliding tackles unless necessary instead looking to use our experience to just guide players away from danger. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple and play it to a man in space with the occasional long ball to the front 3 or the wing backs to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.



For the wing backs today the objective is to provide the width for the team and keep the oppositon stretched as much as possible, both still have a defensive mindset so will be getting back into a back 5 if we lose the ball. They will smash crosses in on offer, but will keep it safe if required and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.


The focus of the midfield 2 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 3 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.



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



When the striker is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead of the defender and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul, his unpredictable style when on the ball will look to cause a bit of doubt in the minds of the defender. When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids. He will play his natural game.


Set Pieces


Corners - Trent
Free Kicks - Trent
Penalties - Salah


Subs


If Winning

70 mins - Jorginho for Henderson - Keep it safe, fresh legs and generally adding a defensive mentality to the midfield.

80 Mins - Keita for Mane - Change to a 3-5-2 to dominate midfield.

80 Mins - Lozano for Salah - Fresh legs.


If Drawing

65 Mins - Ox for Henderson - Add a bit more urgency into attacks.

75 Mins - Mount for Gomez - Change into a 4-3-3 and push higher up.

80 Mins - Suarez for Bobby - Poaching play to finish off chances as we throw the kitchen sink at them.


If Losing

65 Mins - Reus for Gomez - Plays second striker to add attacking threats.

80 Mins - Suarez for Bobby - Poaching play to finish off chances as we throw the kitchen sink at them.

Red card

Become 4-4-1 and take off Gomez

Zieler for gk
Cb nothing
Rose for full backs
Mount for cms
Reus for wide forwards
Suarez for striker

LIVERPOOL

___________ter Stegen
Trips____de Ligt___Sule___Zinchenko
__________Kovacic
________Rakitic___Fabian
Sancho______Kane________Sterling

SUBS: Henrichs, Mertens, Haidara, Castro, Rebic, Son, Can

Captain: Harry Kane
Penalties: Harry Kane
Corners: Rakitic
Freekicks: Rakitic
Crossing Freekick: Rakitic

The formation deployed today is so that we gain as much control as possible higher up he pitch. We expect to have more of the ball so patience is key. 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 regista will drop in to form a back three so that the centre backs can split wide to push the full backs general position higher up in line with the midfielders (and wide forwards engage their back line along with the striker). In doing so we create a four man midfield to overpower their midfield. This will allow our midfield to be flexible, if one of their midfielders steps forward, one of ours will move into the space they vacated. The regista will be the link between our defence and midfield 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 defensive one in his box to box role, closing down space and cutting passing lanes with his incredible interception ability. Playing alongside the regista 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.

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 back to the regista 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 regista and right centre mid. 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: Haidara comes on for Fabian, our legs will start to tire, so will theirs, Haidara will add box to box ability and energy late in the game.

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

If winning 80 mins: Can comes on for Rakitic to close out the game.

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

PORTSMOUTH vs pool

----------------------------------------De Gea-----------------------------------
------------------Militao---------Koulibaly---------Ramos------------
---------------------------Goretzka---------Partey-------------------------
AWB-----------------------------------------------------------------Sessegnon
----------------------------------------Draxler------------------------------------
------------------------Dybala-----------------Werner----------------------

Subs - Butland, Herrera, Rice, Bailey, Kluivert, Leao, Augustin

CAPTAIN - RAMOS
CK'S - DRAXLER
FK'S - DYBALA
PENALTIES - WERNER

When we don't have possession of the ball in our half I want the whole team except the strikers and Eriksen 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 Goretzka and Partey in the centre and they will help keep us ticking.

Defence
De Gea in net, command your box and don't do anything flashy. The defence is well balanced, with all 3 CB's having the pace and power to play the 3atb formation with ease. Koulibaly will focus on the oppo striker and will look to stick close to him and to watch out for his attacking runs. Use your superior strength to get the better of him. Militao and Ramos will look to stop the oppo LW/RW from creating chances as they will be helping our wingbacks double up on them. When either Militao or Ramos go to help the wingbacks I want Partey to just sit a little more deep as to give Koulibaly some extra cover should someone from the opposition midfield make a late run into the box. Wingbacks will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Watch out for oppo wingers and stop them cutting in onto their stronger foot.

Centre Mids
Goretzka + Partey
Partey will be the more defensive of the two as I want him to focus on helping out in covering for our wingbacks when they are out of position. Play simple passes forward and try snd intercept any loose balls in the centre of the pitch. Goretzka will play a b2b role. Make runs forward and play pass and move passes with teammates and help the attack whenever you can. They both will be the engines that keep us ticking in the middle.

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

Attack Mid
Draxler
Draxler 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 late runs into the box whenever you can. Shoot from range if you see an opportunity.

Strikers
Dybala + Werner
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.

IF WINNING BY 65 MINS
Take off Dybala and put on Rice in DM to give the defence even more protection. Formation will be 361 and AWB and Sessegnon will make less attacking runs now. Herrera on for Draxler aswell.

IF LOSING BY 65 MINS
Take off Partey and put on Leao in strike. Leao will play in the middle of Werner and Dybala who will become 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.

IF DRAWING BY 65MINS
Leao on for Dybala
Baikey on for Draxler
Herrera on for Partey
Fresh legs.

SOTON vs Bournemouth

---------------------------------Pickford-----------------------
Odriozola-----------Dias--------------Upamecano---------Vinagre
------------------------Nkunku----------Tielemans-------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pulisic------------------------------------------------------------Richarlison
--------------------------------Zaniolo------------------------------------
---------------------------------Haller-------------------------------------

Subs - Meslier, Demiral, McTominay, RLC, Under, Paqueta, Dembele

CAPTAIN - UPAMECANO
CK'S - ZANIOLO
FK'S - ZANIOLO
PENALTIES - HALLER

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. Dias and Upamecano bring a whole lot of strength and pace to the defence. Upamecano will marshal the defence and Dias 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. Nkunku will be covering for them when they go attacking.

Defence Mids
Nkunku + Tielemans
Nkunku 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 or play a through ball from deep to our wingers. He will also be the bridge to connect the defence and midfield. I want him to get the ball from deep and look for the runs of players around him.
Tielemans 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 strength to outmuscle the oppo players. When not in possession of the ball I want him to sit alongside Nkunku in the middle and protect the defence.

Wingers
Pulisic + Richarlison
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Richarlison will be looking to cut in from the left and Pulisic will be looking to get to the byline. 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 Vinagre 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 Haller 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
Nicolò Zaniolo
Zaniolo will be playing just behind Haller 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
Haller
Haller will look to use his strength to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses/long balls into the box as you are very good 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 hold the ball up for Zaniolo to make runs ahead of you.


Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Dembele for Tielemans and Paqueta for Zaniolo to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212.

-----------------------------Pickford--------------------------------
Odriozola-----------Dias-------------Upamecano---------Vinagre
--------------------------------Tielemans------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pulisic----------------------------------------------------------Richarlison
---------------------------------Paqueta-------------------------------
---------------------------Haller---------Dembele------------------------


Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Zaniolo 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 McTominay for Tielemans to add a bit more defensive energy into the midfield.

------------------------------Pickford--------------------------------
Odriozola-----Dias----Upamecano-----Demiral-------Vinagre
----------------------Nkunku--------McTominay---------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------Under----------------------------------------------Richarlison-------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------Haller---------------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Under on for Pulisic
Paqueta on for Zaniolo
Dembele on for Haller
Fresh legs to bring on.

---------------------- Courtois -----------------
Cancelo -- M.Skriniar --- A.Diallo -- Mendy
---------------------- Busquets ----------------
------------- De Bruyne --- Bernardo --------
O.Dembele -------- Aguero ------ M.Asensio

Subs:
Etheridge, Pellegrini, Martinez, Eriksen, Bale, Icardi, Piatek

Captain: Busquets
Free Kicks: De Bruyne
Penalties: Aguero
Corners: De Bruyne

Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-3-3 formation today as we aim for 3 points. We will look to our midfield trio to win us the game as we look to retain possession, keeping the ball away from their dangerous players and making openings at the other end. We look to overwhelm them with twin AM’s who both offer quality in abundance whilst Busquets provides the perfect anchor, sweeping up behind them and playing perfectly into our gameplan of overwhelming them in midfield.

The opposition will undoubtedly look to their main two players out wide, we look to use this strength against them by exploiting their lack of defensive cover on the flanks by pushing our AM’s forward, our wide men pushing onto their FB’s and Aguero through the centre. It is imperative that we retain possession to avoid being hit on the counter and we feel that our midfield trio of KDB, B.Silva and Busquets offer the perfect platform to implement this game plan.

When not in possession we will drop back into a 4-5-1 formation. Our wingers dropping back to help double up on their widemen whilst our AM’s drop in along Busquets. We play compact and look to funnel them
into the middle of the park. Contesting this area will help us win back possession and with the vision of De Bruyne and Bernardo we have the perfect players to hit them on the counter, turning defence into attack in the blink of an eye.

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 Skriniar will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Diallo adds additional pace and will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top. They will undoubtedly go for pace out wide and therefore it is important that the free CB acts as secondary cover to support the fullback. Double up on their wingers where possible and we feel we can severely limit their impact.

Our fullbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have supporting cover from the free CB should the wingers look to come infield whilst Busquets also has license to drift across and offer additional cover. We will at all times look to double up on their wide players, really looking to smother them, box them giving them little room to manoeuvre. We feel that taking away space for their dangerous players to operate will severely limit their attacking ability and stop them getting into any rhythm.

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 sit in front of our backline, shutting down their their AM whilst also playing another important role, if one of their widemen has the ball in the final third we want him to drift across and cut out the option of bringing the ball infield. Working in tandem with the FB’s we want to force their wide players down the line, make them cross the ball which our CB’s can then cut out rather then allowing them to dribble infield.

De Bruyne and Bernardo will look to be our creators in chief. We look to get them on the ball as much as possible. Both fantastic engines and their off the ball work will contribute to shutting down the opposition and winning back possession however it is in the final third we expect them to shine. Playing with twin AM’s we will create real problems to their DM. It will be a case of pick your poison with both players offering fantastic vision and a killer through ball as we look for the fantastic movement of Aguero who will at all times be on his toes.

Both KDB and Bernardo are also encouraged to go for goal direct. KDB in particular has a fantastic strike from distance whilst Bernardo is more than capable of dribbling past players and firing off a strike himself.

Forwards:

Up top we go with pace of Dembele and Asensio our wide. We want them to really press up high, forcing the opposition back which creates space for our AM’s to exploit, if the opposition play a high line then we will look to use our pace to get in behind their FB’s and either go direct for goal or look for Aguero in the middle to tap home.

Our main attacking play will revolve around the link up play of Bernardo, De Bruyne & Aguero. We want Aguero to mix up his play. Drop deep pulling their CB with you whilst also looking to play on the shoulder of the last man, ready to pounce on any through balls from our chief creators. We want him to specifically drift across and target the LCB, forcing confusion in their back line and making himself impossible to man mark. A world class goal scorer with fantastic movement, he’ll look to get himself in the box and finish any chances that fall his way.

Subs;

If winning:
70 mins: Dembele off, Martinez on. Bernardo moves to RW with an additional DM next to Busquets.
80 mins: Asensio off, Bale on. Fresh legs to finish them off on the counter.

If drawing:
70 mins: Dembele off, Bale on. A new threat with Bale a big game player capable of grabbing a winner.
80 mins: Bernardo off, Eriksen on. A new threat with Eriksen the perfect player to unlock their defence in the last 10.

If losing:
60 mins: Busquets off, Eriksen on. Midfield bursting with creativity to get us back in the game.
70 mins: Diallo & Asensio off, Icardi and Piatek on. 3-4-3 with Aguero, Icardi & Piatek up top as we go for goals, goals, goals.

Bournemouth Tactics (Week 5)

Captain : Samir
Vice Captain : Benítez

------------------Benítez
William--Romero--Samir----Firpo
-------------Roca----Bentancur
------------------Arthur
Méndez-----------------------Oyarzabal
------------------Gómez

SUBS: Musso, Lodi, Murilo, Guimarães, Zaracho, Vargas, Cunha


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 (Roca) who will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Bentancur). In front of them Arthur 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’ Bentancur will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Arthur 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: Benítez 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 (Roca). 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 (Bentancur). 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 Arthur will operate as the link between midfield and attack.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Méndez and Oyarzabal 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 Arthur, Bentancur and Gómez 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 Bentancur may sit a bit deeper allowing Arthur 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.
Gómez 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: Arthur, Oyarzabal or Méndez with Romero, Samir, Roca and Gómez to offer an aerial threat. Arthur and Oyarzabal (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 Romero, Guimarães for Roca and Cunha for Gómez.
If losing (70 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Bentancur with Cunha and Méndez with Vargas. 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.
--------------Roca
Vargas------Arthur-----Oyarzabal
----------Cunha -----Gómez

Portsmouth v NORWICH CITY

-----------------------Müller
Aarons-----Godfrey---------Aké---------Justin
---------------Berge---------Sanches
Wilson--------------Brooks------------Cantwell
----------------------Dolberg

Free Kicks – Wilson

Subs: Ward, Byram, Söyüncü, Eiting, Billing, Lanzini, Pukki

Our defensive unit consists of Ben Godfrey and Nathan Aké paired up at centre-back, Max Aarons at right-back and James Justin at left-back, with Sander Berge and Renato Sanches as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

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

With Sanches running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Sander Berge.

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

The attacking unit consists of Harry Wilson, David Brooks and Todd Cantwell as our band of three attacking midfielders with Kasper Dolberg 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 Berge or Sanches, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.

Aarons and Justin can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Berge and Sanches can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Harry Wilson 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 who will look to play Wilson, Cantwell and Dolberg in via fast passing combinations.

Up front Dolberg’s biggest strength is his ability to move between the lines, which will make him extremely difficult to mark. Dropping into midfield will allow space for Wilson and Cantwell to advance and make runs from out to in. From these positions, they can make attempts on goal. Also, Dolberg has the ability to switch positions with our wide players, allowing them the freedom to move inside.

Dolberg’s speed on and off the ball is an attribute that will cause our opposition lots of problems. His movement deep into midfield will give him the opportunity to receive the ball without being marked and drive with the ball towards the goal.

Subs on 75 mins
Lanzini & Pukki, on for Brooks & Dolberg respectively

Double substitution - Loads of fresh legs and pace to trouble the opposition for a late goal regardless of the score line

------------------------ Oblak -----------------------
Walker ----- van Dijk ----- Lenglet ----- Schulz
------------- Fabinho -------- de Jong ------------
------------------------ Aouar -----------------------
--- Mbappe --------------------------- Neymar ---
--------------------- Lacazette ---------------------

Gunn, Kehrer, Llorente, Martial, Rashford, Belotti, Tonali

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 Fabinho and de Jong 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, Lacazette 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, Lenglet 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 Fabinho to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. van Dijk and Lenglet to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Fabinho sitting back.

Fabinho 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 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 Aouar 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. Aouar is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, I want him higher up the pitch today so 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 de Jong/Fabinho/CB pass. When in possession always s 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, 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 Aouar 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 Lacazette who can beat any defender with power and what pace he has left 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 Lacazette 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.

Subs -
Losing
65 Mins - Martial and Kehrer for Walker and Schulz, Kehrer to RCB, Martial up top with Lacazette as we go 3412, go more long ball from deep and try and hit them with more numbers/pace, when defending Fabinho drop back
75 Mins - Belotti for Lacazette, fresh legs

Winning -
75 Mins - Llorente for de Jong, stronger defensively
83 Mins - Martial for Lacazette, use his pace to run everything down
85 Mins - Tonali for Aouar, drop a bit and look to play keep ball

Drawing -
70 Mins - Martial for Lacazette, Mbappe up top, more pace in he front 3
80 Mins - Rashford for Aouar 442
83 Mins - Tonali for de Jong, like for like, will look to play a killer ball to forwards to latch on to

Red Card
Oblak - Gunn for Aouar 4-4-1
Defender - Kehrer for Aouar
Fabinho - Llorente for Aouar
de Jong - Aouar drop back
Aouar - nothing
Winger - Aouar can play wide(replaced with Martial after 70 mins if losing)
Forward - Aouar wide, Neymar up top(as above)

High tempo total football 4-3-3

At home we go with an attacking team full of pace, playing with a high tempo in defence and attack. We have a cm duo that are all strong defensively, giving freedom to our attacking players to get the best out of them. We have a front three full of pace, looking to stretch the opposition and create space for our midfielders to exploit. Jesus offering a high tempo from the front with and without the ball, setting the tone for the team.

In the midfield trio we have the powerful Rodri next to the energetic Thiago, and Coutinho offering pace and exuberance in front. Thiago our playmaker in the centre. In defence Rodri drops behind the other two cms who press the play as the trio narrow, similarly in attack Rodri stays deepest but the trio do not play so narrow. We have a defence full of pace and great energy in front so play a reasonably high line, helping us press Bournemouth in high area, and aiding distribution out from the back line.


We look to play our usual high tempo attacking game and take the game to Bournemouth, seeking to exploit space behind their midfield. We have a strong side defensively and in attack, our team is built to give Hazard, Sane and Coutinho the space and freedom to find the ball in space in attacking positions to hurt Bournemouth. Thiago creating from deeper, getting the ball to the front four in the right positions.


Pavard the man marker next to Varane who is free to use his pace to sweep up. In midfield, the trio narrow in front with the cm opposite play dropping behind, allowing the other two to press with cover. Sane drops deep to add protection in front of the fb and next to the two pressing cms. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play. Win the ball back from Bournemouth quickly before they can get anywhere.

Quick passing and moving to find space in between the opposition lines. Using the pace of our wide cms, wide forwards and fbs (one bombs forward at a time) to create space as we push forward.


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 high tempo play. We look to vary our play, we can go long from the back or Neuer to mix the play up.

We have a cm duo who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid front three, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space. As we move forward we get quick one twos in the opposition half. With this fluid front three, Coutinho supports using his pace and creativity to link the play.


------------------ Neuer ------------------
----------------------------------------------
Carvajal -- Pavard -- Varane -- Mendy
----------------------------------------------
-------------- Rodri -- Thiago -----------
----------------- Coutinho ------------------
L.Sane --------------------------- Hazard
------------------- Jesus ------------------


Subs. Schmeichel, Diop, Neves, Rabiot, Zaha, Ronaldo, L.Martinez


Defending high

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 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 Bournemouth advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-3-2. Sane drops deep and Rodri drops behind the other two cms pressing the space behind the two cms pressing the ball, sweeping up danger behind them and in front of the defence.

Jesus and Hazard in the space in between the opposition defence and midfield, and either side of their dm. This will make it difficult for their to dm to circulate possession back to their defence.

Sane and the two cms (Thiago and Coutinho) are the trio pressing the ball, and look to force Bournemouth backwards. With the two forwards left forward this is where we look to press the opposition into mistakes and win the ball in high areas. With pace to join the attack quickly and overload Bournemouth.

When Bournemouth 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. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.


Subs.

If winning after 70 mins bring on L.Martinez for Jesus. As Bournemouth will push for a goal, give us fresh pace up top.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Rabiot for Coutinho. More power in cm keeping us on top.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Zaha for Sane. Fresh pace.


If drawing after 70 mins bring on Ronaldo for Coutinho. Hazard drops to AM, Jesus lw.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Zaha for Jesus. Sane left, Zaha right.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Neves for Rodri.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Ronaldo for Coutinho. Hazard drops to AM, Jesus lw.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Lautaro for Jesus. Hazard to LW. Lautaro playing off Ronaldo.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Neves for Rodri.

Attacking 4-3-3

At home, we aim to dominate the midfield and control the game playing a copy of Pep's City formation. With great pace at the back, we play a reasonably high line, using our two pacey wingers to stretch the game and pin back the opposition full backs, creating the space for our get our central to dominate possession of the ball.

We have four of City's key midfielders from last season, while Danilo and Mahrez also add a former City partnership on the right.

Going forward we look to use the ability of our central trio in tight spaces to get behind the Hull midfield, and then play one of our attacking trio through on goal. We will look to spread the ball wide, get our wingers on the last men in defence. They stay wide on the touchline in the first two thirds of the park. In the final third they have freedom to stay wide or to look to get inside their man and through on goal.

One full back bombs forward at a time, combining with the winger to double up on the opposition full back.

Defensively we drop into a narrow 4-1-4-1 formation. The two wide men get back in to help us defend in a narrow shape. Fernandinho the midfielder dropping deeper behind the midfield four, sweeping up any danger in between the lines as the free man. The four midfielders in front of him look to press the ball, as the whole side narrows to the side of play. Closing out any space.

Rudiger is the central forward that man marks their forward, he has the pace and power to mark their most advanced forward. Romagnoli one of the best in the game for reading the play and mopping up is the sweeper of the two. Both importantly are strong on the ball.

----------------- Arrizabalaga
Danilo ----- J.Tah ----- Romagnoli --- Theo.H
------------------ Fernandinho
----------- Gundogan---- D.Silva
Mahrez -------------------------------- di Maria
-------------------- Cutrone

Subs: Henderson, Hakimi, Diawara, Elmas , Adelaide, Lemar, Benzema


Our defensive unit consists of Rudiger and Romagnoli paired up at centre-back, Danilo at right-back and Hernandez at left-back, with Fernandinho as our defensive midfielder screening them.

Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Fernandinho's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow the bank of four defenders and midfielders to maintain their position, ensuring the zonal structure shape is maintained with no space for the opposition to work in.

Attack
We will control the tempo of our attacking play. Looking to play quickly when we feel we can counter, or slow the play when the opposition are back in a solid structure.

One of Danilo or Theo can surge up the wings in the knowledge that there are three other defenders to cover. As they come up the wings, both Mahrez and di Maria who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box.

Our two central midfielders are excellent in tight spaces and will look to link up with the wingers, playing quick one twos to set them off into space, or taking the time to play daring through balls that will cut the opposition open.

Cutrone will occupy the opposition’s centre backs, holding up possession and looking to turn the defender and shoot. He’ll be strong in the air and look out for his teammates trying to pick him out from deep. He'll get in the box, and always provide an option for the wide players. The winger opposite play always looks to get into the box adding an extra option for the wide player looking to cross or create in the middle.

Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Diawara for Fernandinho. Fresh energy and power.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Benzema for Cutrone and Lemar for di Maria. Fresh power up top to hold up the ball and link play, and fresh pace on the wing.

If drawing after 70 mins bring on Benzema for Cutrone.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Diawara for Fernandinho. Fresh power.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Adelaide for Gundogan.

If losing after 60 mins bring on Benzema for Cutrone.
If losing after 65 mins bring on Lemar for Gundogan. di Maria to cm. More direct.

---------------------- Areola ---------------------
Guilbert ---- Stones ---- N.Sule ---- Marcelo
------------- Tolisso ------- Pjanic -------------
---------------------- Bruno ----------------------
Gnabry ---------------------------------- Coman
----------------- Lewandowski ------------------

Heaton, Henrichs, Khedira, Barnes, Rashica, Lukaku, Malen


Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team with two banks of four with Bruno & Lewandowski harassing their backline and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially Pjanic, Tolisso and Bruno further up the pitch in the centre as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards.

Guilbert and Marcelo have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, one will stay back creating a back 3 when we attack, bomb down the line supporting the wingers on the outside, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Lewandowski. They look to play one twos with the midfield which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Stones will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Sule alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, both powerful defenders, Both will dominate in the air and both good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Both cbs up for corners, fullbacks stay back and a midfielder just sitting in front of them. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both CBs are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..

Tolisso 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.

Pjanic is our box-to-box midfielder 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. 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 go. Bruno's main responsibility is to both create chances for the three attackers in front of him and indeed score the goals himself. Playing as a SS he will often find himself the furthest forward of the three midfielders and sometimes even in the number 9 role if the correct situation arises. The main requirement of Malen is pace & creativity; he needs to be able to play a pass that penetrates the opposition’s defense or dictates the direction of the attack These three should work well together and between them have everything a midfield needs. Bruno will try and get in beyond there DM and support Lewandowski and look for any scraps coming his way.

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, Gnabry I want to drive on the outside and play as a natural winger not an inside forward unless supports by Guilbert. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos. Use Pjanic/Bruno to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using Bruno to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Lewandowski so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.Lewandowski will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to bully the slower/weaker of the two/three with the aid of Malen and the wingers and sometimes the fullbacks. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower/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. He can score from various angles/ranges with hopefully a few crosses coming in he can get up and above defenders for. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Gnabry and Coman will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side if he cant go for goal himself. But especially look for Pjanic and Bruno driving forward as they time their runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.

We must defend as a team tho, from the front, 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 - Sule
Pens - Lewandowski/Replacement
Free Kicks - Pjanic
Corners - Wingers

Losing -
65 Mins - Lukaku for Bruno 4-4-2
75 Mins - Rashica for Coman, Malen for Lewandowski fresh legs

Winning -
75 Mins - Khedira for Bruno, he will become the DM in a 4141 formation
83 Mins - Lukaku and Rashica for Lewandowski and Coman fresh legs to help out

Drawing -
70 Mins - Rashica for Coman, Lukaku for Lewandowski
80 Mins - Malen for Bruno 442

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PORTSMOUTH vs Norwich

----------------------------------------De Gea-----------------------------------
------------------Azpi---------Koulibaly---------Ramos------------
---------------------------Goretzka---------Verratti-------------------------
AWB-----------------------------------------------------------------Sessegnon
---------------------------------------Draxler-------------------------------------
------------------------Dybala-----------------Werner----------------------

Subs - Butland, Herrera, Rice, Bailey, Kluivert, Leao, Augustin

CAPTAIN - RAMOS
CK'S - DRAXLER
FK'S - DYBALA
PENALTIES - WERNER

When we don't have possession of the ball in our half I want the whole team except the strikers and Eriksen 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 Goretzka and Verratti in the centre and they will help keep us ticking.

Defence
De Gea in net, command your box and don't do anything flashy. The defence is well balanced, with all 3 CB's having the pace and power to play the 3atb formation with ease. Koulibaly will focus on the oppo striker and will look to stick close to him and to watch out for his attacking runs. Use your superior strength to get the better of him. Azpi and Ramos will look to stop the oppo LW/RW from creating chances as they will be helping our wingbacks double up on them. When either Azpi or Ramos go to help the wingbacks I want Verratti to just sit a little more deep as to give Koulibaly some extra cover should someone from the opposition midfield make a late run into the box. Wingbacks will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Watch out for oppo wingers and stop them cutting in onto their stronger foot.

Centre Mids
Goretzka + Verratti
Verratti will be the more defensive of the two as I want him to focus on helping out in covering for our wingbacks when they are out of position. Main job is to get the ball from deep and look to open up the oppo with your superb range of passing. Use your low centre of gravity to get away from oppo challenges and play quick simple passes with your teammates to work some space in the middle. Also when the oppo AM has the ball close him down asap don't give him time on the ball. Goretzka will play a b2b role. Make runs forward and play pass and move passes with teammates and help the attack whenever you can. They both will be the engines that keep us ticking in the middle.

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

Attack Mid
Draxler
Draxler 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 late runs into the box whenever you can. Shoot from range if you see an opportunity.

Strikers
Dybala + Werner
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.

IF WINNING BY 65 MINS
Take off Dybala and put on Rice in DM to give the defence even more protection. Formation will be 361 and AWB and Sessegnon will make less attacking runs now. Herrera on for Draxler aswell.

IF LOSING BY 65 MINS
Take off Verratti and put on Leao in strike. Leao will play in the middle of Werner and Dybala who will become 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.

IF DRAWING BY 65MINS
Leao on for Dybala
Bailey on for Draxler
Herrera on for Partey
Fresh legs.

SOTON vs man city

--------------------------------------Pickford-----------------------
Odriozola---------M Sarr--------------Upamecano--------Chilwell
-------------------------Nkunku----------Tielemans-----------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pulisic--------------------------------------------------------------Richarlison
--------------------------------J Rodriguez------------------------------------
--------------------------------------Kean-------------------------------------

Subs - Meslier, McTominay, Torreira, RLC, Under, Zaniolo, Haller

CAPTAIN - UPAMECANO
CK'S - JAMES
FK'S - JAMES
PENALTIES - KEAN

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. Sarr and Upamecano bring a whole lot of strength and pace to the defence. Upamecano will marshal the defence and Sarr 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. Nkunku will be covering for them when they go attacking.

Defence Mids
Nkunku + Tielemans
Nkunku 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 or play a through ball from deep to our wingers. He will also be the bridge to connect the defence and midfield. I want him to get the ball from deep and look for the runs of players around him.
Tielemans 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 strength to outmuscle the oppo players. When not in possession of the ball I want him to sit alongside Nkunku in the middle and protect the defence.

Wingers
Pulisic + Richarlison
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Richarlison will be looking to cut in from the left and Pulisic will be looking to get to the byline. 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 Haller 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
James Rodríguez
Rodríguez will be playing just behind Kean 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
Kean
Kean 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 Haller for Tielemans and Zaniolo for James to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212.

-----------------------------Pickford--------------------------------
Odriozola-----------Sarr-------------Upamecano---------Chilwell
--------------------------------Tielemans------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pulisic----------------------------------------------------------Richarlison
---------------------------------Zaniolo-------------------------------
---------------------------Haller---------Kean------------------------


Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off James and put on McTominay 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 Torreira for Nkunku to add a bit more defensive energy into the midfield.

------------------------------Pickford--------------------------------
Odriozola-----Sarr----Upamecano-----McTom-------Chilwell
----------------------Torreira--------Tielemans---------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------Under----------------------------------------------Richarlison-------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------Kean---------------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Under on for Pulisic
Zaniolo on for James
Haller on for Kean
Fresh legs to bring on.

Newcastle v Tottenham

------------------- Courtois ----------------
Cancelo --- Skriniar -- Godin --- Mendy
--- De Bruyne - Ndombele - Eriksen ---
Bernardo ----- Kun Aguero ---- Dembele

Subs:
Etheridge, Diallo, Martinez, Busquets, Asensio, Bale, Piatek

Captain: Godin
Free Kicks: De Bruyne
Penalties: Aguero
Corners: De Bruyne

Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-3-3 formation today as we aim for 3 points. We will look to our midfield trio to win us the game as we look to dictate the playing, retain possession and keeping the ball away from their dangerous players and making openings at the other end. We look to overwhelm in midfield

When not in possession we will drop back into a 4-5-1 formation. We play compact and push them out wide, they have quality on the flanks however we will compact the middle of the park so that we will have plenty of players to cut out their attacks when they attempt to come infield. As soon as we win back possession we look to hit them on the counter and with the vision of De Bruyne, Eriksen and Bernardo we have the perfect players to hit them on the counter, turning defence into attack in the blink of an eye.

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 Godin will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Skriniar will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top. They will undoubtedly go for pace out wide and therefore it is important that the free CB acts as secondary cover to support the fullback. Double up on their wingers where possible and we feel we can severely limit their impact.

Our fullbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have supporting cover from the free CB should the wingers look to come infield whilst Ndombele also has license to drift across and offer additional cover. We will at all times look to double up on their wide players, really looking to smother them, box them giving them little room to manoeuvre. We feel that taking away space for their dangerous players to operate will severely limit their attacking ability and stop them getting into any rhythm.

Midfield:

We go with a three man midfield as we look to dominate this area of the field. The opposition have been known to play two in the middle and if that is the case they will be severely overwhelmed. Importantly we go with three quality passers of the ball. This means that even if they have plenty of energy they simply will not be able to deal with the extra man, which will crucially be one of most creative players in De Bruyne or Eriksen. We make them chase the ball, pulling them out of shape which will create space for us to hurt them in the final third.

Ndombele comes into our side and will act as the holding man. He offers a great physical presence and importantly better pace and movement than Busquets which will be pivotal in winning the midfield battle. He will sit in front of the back four protecting the defence, if one of their widemen has the ball in the final third we want him to drift across and cut out the option of bringing the ball infield. Working in tandem with the FB’s we want to force their wide players down the line and away from the danger area.

De Bruyne and Eriksen will be our magic men in the middle, acting as our creators in chief we look to get them on the ball as much as possible. With Ndombele acting as an anchor they have freedom to get forward and pick apart the opposition. Short sharp passing will pull the opposition apart with both players capable of playing that killer pass in the final third. Bernardo will also drop deep to give us an extra link up, we feel that the opposition will struggle to come with an abundance of attacking quality as we really look to pin them back which will hamper their attacking plans of their own.

They are also encouraged to go for goal direct. KDB in particular has a fantastic strike from distance whilst Bernardo is more than capable of dribbling past players and firing off a strike himself.

Forwards:

Up top we go with a combination of pace, trickery and a lethal finisher as we go goals. We want them to really press up high, forcing the opposition back which creates space for our CM’s to exploit, if the opposition play a high line then we will look to use our pace to get in behind and either go direct for goal or look for Aguero in the middle to tap home. If they go with a three man defence we feel that we can really cause damage.

Bernardo a mercurial dribbler, we look for him to cut inside and go direct for goal or slip in Aguero to finish. Dembele we want to go direct at the opposition, use his pace to get in behind their defence and capable of going with either foot he’s encouraged to go for goal.

Our main attacking play will revolve around the link up play of Bernardo, De Bruyne, Eriksen & Aguero. We want Aguero to mix up his play. Drop deep pulling their CB with you whilst also looking to play on the shoulder of the last man, ready to pounce on any through balls from our chief creators. A world class goal scorer with fantastic movement, he’ll look to get himself in the box and finish any chances that fall his way.

Subs;

If winning:
70 mins: Eriksen off, Busquets on. Bernardo moves to RW with an additional DM next to Busquets.
80 mins: Dembele off, Diallo on. Shut up shop time as we move to a 5 man defence to see the game out.

If drawing:
70 mins: Dembele off, Bale on. A new threat with Bale a big game player capable of grabbing a winner.
80 mins: Ndombele, Bernardo off, Asensio, Piatek on. 4-2-2-2 with KDB & Eriksen in middle, Bale & Asensio on the flanks and Aguero and Piatek up top. Goals.

If losing:
60 mins: Ndombele off, Asensio on. Bernardo drops into a midfield bursting with creativity to get us back in the game.
70 mins: Godin & Dembele off, Bale and Piatek on. 3-4-3 with Aguero, Bale & Piatek up top as we go for goals, goals, goals.

LIVERPOOL

___________ter Stegen
Trips____Manolas___de Ligt___Zinchenko
__________Ndidi
________Kessie___Fabian
Sancho______Kane________Sterling

SUBS: Pope, Mertens, Haidara, Castro, Rebic, Son, Can

Captain: Harry Kane
Penalties: Harry Kane
Corners: Sancho
Freekicks: Sancho
Crossing Freekick: Fabian

The formation deployed today is so that we gain as much control as possible higher up he pitch. We expect to have more of the ball so patience is key. 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 regista will drop in to form a back three so that the centre backs can split wide to push the full backs general position higher up in line with the midfielders (and wide forwards engage their back line along with the striker). In doing so we create a four man midfield to overpower their midfield. This will allow our midfield to be flexible, if one of their midfielders steps forward, one of ours will move into the space they vacated. The regista will be the link between our defence and midfield 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 defensive one in his box to box role, closing down space and cutting passing lanes with his incredible interception ability. Playing alongside the regista 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.

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 back to the regista 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 regista and right centre mid. 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: Haidara comes on for Fabian, our legs will start to tire, so will theirs, Haidara will add box to box ability and energy late in the game.

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

If winning 80 mins: Can comes on for Kessie to close out the game.

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

Red

Take off Kessie and go 4-4-1

Pope if keeper
Castro if full backs
Can if cb and dm
Haidara if cm
Son if wings
Mertens if striker

NEWCASTLE 4-3-3

___________Alisson
Trent____Matip___Vert___Robbo
____________Kante
________Henderson___Gini
Salah______Firmino________Mane

SUBS: Hummels, Ox, Mount, Milner, Reus, Suarez, Lozano

Captain: Jordan Henderson
Penalties: Mo 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: Mount comes on for Gini, our legs will start to tire, so will theirs, Mount will add box to box ability and energy late in the game.

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

If winning 80 mins: Milner comes on for Henderson to close out the game.

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