Matchday Tactics

-------------------Cillessen------------------
Janmaat---De Vrij---Umtiti---Blind
----------Strootman--Schneiderlin------
Hazard----------Klaassen-----------Praet
---------------------Batshuayi----------------

Subs: Vermeer, Bruma, Allan, Maher, Destro, Halilovic, Tielemans

To open season 2 we're reverted back back to a recognised 4-2-3-1 formation with a Belgian attacking trio backed up by two of the best physical midfielders in Europe as they look to stamp authority on the game early.

GK Stand tall, come for crosses that are close to you making them need to aim crosses further out. Distribute short as much as possible to our players rather than kicking the ball upfield. Be on your toes for balls in behind the defence for their striker running onto and sweep them up. Communication is key with the back four, ensure they know their role.

FBs Limit the wingers away from goal on the outside as much as possible, and for them to have to cross from deep, block any crosses coming in. Look to come forward and work the flanks yourselves at times but only one of you to go forward at once, work with our winger to stretch them doubling up and allowing you to hit crosses into the box.

CBs – Communicate with one another, don’t allow to be drawn out of position and expose gaps but keep to your role and be intelligent in when you hold and when you time tackles. De Vrij to pick up the main marking role on their striker, Umtiti to double up when required but also to be aware for marauding AMs or wingers coming inside. When in possession of the ball look to play it out to feet rather than kicks upfield, possession is tantamount to our success.

Central Mids – Schneiderlin to take the more defensive role and cut off supply through the centre, stay back and be aware of FBs coming forward to provide protection. Strootman to take a more aggressive b2b role this week. Look to pick up the ball deep and move forward with it before releasing it our forward options.

Wingers –If the fullbacks push forward, look to exploit the space behind which will either give you loads of space, or force them to drop back. You are mainly attack minded, but when under pressure, drop deeper and assist our FBs if needed. Defensively, pressurise the ball high up the pitch as soon as we lose it.

Striker & Attacking Midfielder – Play as a partnership, with both players looking to bamboozle and befuddle the opposition defence with quick interplay and boundless energy. Be constantly on the move, drag your markers dizzy and look for exchanges as you run into the box. When the ball is wide, Klaassen to hang just outside the box for any knock downs or loose balls. If the defence are attempting to rough you up then don't be afraid to make a meal of a rough tackle to get them on a early yellow, they'll be forced then to back off for the match.

Set pieces – Strootman & De Vrij to get into the box for set pieces and use their physical advantage to really put a fox amongst the chickens, Schneiderlin and Umtiti to remain back whilst they’ve gone up.


If losing at 65m: Halilovic, Destro and Maher on for Hazard, Batshuayi & Klaassen. Take similar roles but use the fresh legs to continue the assault
If winning at 70m: Klaassen off, Allan on, go 4-3-2-1 with Allan adding extra protection in front of the defence, if continuing to win at 80m bring on Destro for Hazard, go 4-3-1-2 and look for a fast counter.

-----------Ahamada
Srna -- Tasci --Bocchetti --Kombarov
--------------Rode
-----Shirokov -----Gerrard
Jese Rodriguez-----------Quaresma
--------------------Fred

Subs: Vrsaljko/Schennikov/Arouca/Josue/Glushakov/Movsisyan/Ozbiliz

Team talk - 1st game of the season up against Ajax shall be a fun game shall look to go out and take them on.

Ahamada:  Come out and clear crosses, Look to clear balls knocked in behind their a pacy side.
Srna: Look to force the wingers inside towards the DM, If get down the line then block crosses into box. When attacking look to whip balls in for Fred.
Tasci: Stick to the main forward keep tight to him and try to bully him off the ball. Make sure he doesn't turn you
Bocchetti: Look to sit a yard off Tasci so if their pacy forward gets behind look to make up the ground and get the tackle in. Also watch for any AM's trying to drift in behind the defense.
Kombarov: I want you to get close to the winger look to force him back the other way. if he turns you use pace to block the cross.
Rode:  I want to sit and marshall infront of the defense and look to put tackles in on the AM if play one. When they come out down the wings go out to help the full backs defend them.
Gerrard: Look to get amongst the midfield and dictate the tempo of the play look to whip the ball about around the field and look to make a late run into box.
Shirokov: I want to you to drift off Fred and look to get beyond him into the box. Look to link up with the wingers.
Jese Rodriguez:  I want you to get the ball and run at the full back look to twist him inside and out and cut inside to link up with Fred/Shirokov/Quaresma. Look to get back and defend against the winger
Quaresma: You're a box of tricks so use them to make yourself space and whip the ball in for Fred. Look to get at the rb and cut inside if Kombarov comes forwards
Fred: You are a fox in the box so look to back into the centre backs and make yourself space in the box to get a shot at goal away.

Subs:  Movsisyan for Fred to use pace against tired defenders.  

Injuries:
Alex
Miroslav Klose
Senad Lulic
Denis Suarez


Team: 4-3-2-1

22 - F.Marchetti / 03 - A.Ansaldi / 04 - Y.Cabaye (c) / 05 - L.Biglia / 13- S.Radu / 14 - K.Balde Diao / 21 - J.Defoe / 26 - J.Terry / 28 - A.Konko / 29 - C.Ledesma / 87 - A.Candreva

------------- Marchetti --------------
Konko ---- Terry --- Radu ---- Ansaldi
---------- Biglia --- Ledesma ---------
-------------- Cabaye (c) -----------
-- Candreva ------------ Balde Diao --
-------------- Defoe ----------------

Subs:
01 - E.Berisha / 09 - L.Toni / 10 - F.Totti / 12 - D.Suárez / 15 - Á.González / 24 - Q.Promes / 27 - L.Cana

Team Talk: After a solid first season we must push on and assert our dominance early, up first is a QPR side that could throw anything at us. We are setting up to overload their DCM with both Candreva and Balde Diao roaming across the space between the lines. They are without Pirlo this week so we will have dominace in the middle. Cabaye to provide the spark to set up the creative players. Defoe to play off the shoulder of their slow CBs.

Marchetti - Control the box, claim the crosses, look to throw it out quick

Konko/Ansaldi - They have a threat in Coentrao so it is imperative that you ensure you get back however feel free to get beyond our inverted wingers to exploit the space they provide us with

Terry/Radu - We will be playing a deep line so they cannot exploit our slight lack of pace but rather we can use our superb positioning. They have a bunch of strikers who might play but regardless Terry to mark them with Radu picking up the runners

Biglia/Ledesma - Biglia as the terrier, Ledesma as the starting point for attacks. Biglia to pick up their CAM and make life a living hell for him. Get the hard tackles in early to throw them off their game and keep the little snapping at the heels going all game. Ledesma to provide cover and ensure we dont get outnumbered, win the ball back and keep us ticking over

Cabaye - Our game winner. In defence pick up Toulalan and stop him from having time on the ball. When you have the ball look to play your gorgeous passes to Candreva/Balde Diao or charge forward to get into position to shoot. Follow the ball forward to get into dangerous positions

Candreva/Balde Diao - The pair of you are roaming between the lines. This is twofold. Firstly to overwhelm their DCM and secondly to exploit the room behind their wingbacks when they go forward. Outwide either release our fullbacks or run into the space where you can then attack their outside CBs. Centrally combine to demoralise their CMs and run with pace at their CBs

Defoe - You will drift today and use your turn of pace to attack them, look to get onto any and all through balls. You are a natual born finisher, make sure you finish them today

---
Corners - Candreva, aim for Terry
Freekicks (Indirect) - Cabaye
Freekicks (Direct) - Cabaye
Penalties - Defoe
---
Subs:
At 75 minutes, regardless of score. Promes on, Balde Diao off.

------------------------------------Forster--------------------------------------------

--------------------Mexes--------------------------Hughes---------------------------------

--Zapata--------------------------------------------------------------------Coentrao----------------------

-----------------------------Toulouan-------------Cambiasso-------------------------------------------------------

--------Isla----------------------------------------------------------------------------Bastos---------------------------------

------------------------------------------Ronaldinho--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-----------------------------------------Rhodes-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Injuries: Ramis,Birsa,Pirlo,Ings
Captain: Phillipe Mexes
Subs: Cesar (GK), Assou-Ekotto,Brown,SWP,Austin

GK: Forster, new season, same sort of principles though. Solid in the air, try and catch as much as possible, get the ball out to the full backs and get the play started from the back

FB: Zapata and Coentrao, get forward and support the wingers, without forgetting defensive responsbilities..

CB: Mexes and Hughes. Mexex the leader, strong in the air win all headers and stay strong, Hughes will go into the box at set pieces and be an aerial threat.

DM: Toulouan and Cambiasso. Experienced and class. You both know your games inside out..Strong on the ball looking to get the ball to the wingers and Ronaldinho..Also protect the back four and be strong in the tackle.

W:Isla and Bastos, provide the width. Both use their pace to get past the full backs, and get balls into the box..Bastos to shoot from range on a regular basis..

AM: Ronaldinho. Play-maker, main attacking threat, and trickster. Beat players with the ball, provide wingers with the ball, and get into the box. Shoot when opportunity arises.

S: Rhodes. Goal-scorer. Get in the box, attack the crosses and stick the ball in the back of the net!

Subs: SWP for Isla : 70 mins
       Austin for Ronaldinho: 80 mins :  GO 4-4-2

It's the start of the new season lads and we are up against a very good pacey young Parma team today. I expect that Parma will go with a 4-2-3-1 formation and i want us to look to get the ball out to the wide areas and attack the full backs.

------------Lopes--------------
Anyukov-Dede-Kouyaté-Siquiera
-----Grenier------Gourcuff------
-----------Lallana--------------
Kelvin----Lacazette----Stocker-

Goalkeeper - I want you to be on your toes as always, look to collect crosses and set pieces when they arrive and look to build possession from the back.

Defensive Tactics:

-I want us to look out for the pace of Parma today, i have tried to match Parma for pace and i want our back line to defend as a solid block of 4. Watch out for the runs beyond the full backs.
-I want our midfield to set up as a 3 with Stocker and Kelvin dropping back slightly to create another block of 4 to defend with. Use your pace and energy to get up and down the pitch with the play and look to cut out attacks as soon as possible.
-Grenier and Gourcuff i want you both to be the support players in midfield by supplying the attackers and defenders with 2 extra men at all times.
-Lallana i want you to look to roam and drop off slightly in defensive situations and look to put pressure on them by trying to cut out passes. I want you to look to get on the ball as soon as possible on the counter attacks and look to play Lacazette in as soon as you see an opening.
-Lacazette i want you to stay on the half way line when attacks are in our half and look to break on the counter attack and be the furthest man forward.

Attacking Instructions:

-I want the full backs to get up-field and look to get beyond the oppositions fullbacks. I want us to try and overload the wide areas as i believe this is where we can get at Parma.
-Central defenders are to go up on set pieces and the full backs are to cover you.
-Grenier and Gourcuff i want you to look to support the attackers by being just behind Lallana and also look to supply the ball to the forward 3.
-Lallana you are the main man again today, i want you to roam in behind the front 3 and look to push the ball into space and into feet. I want you to pick up the ball from deep at times and take control of the game.
-Kelvin and Stocker i want you both to get at Parma down the wings today and look to overload that area of the pitch. Look to cut inside and get beyond the fullbacks.
-Lacazette - You are playing in between 2 wingers and we have a lot of pace in the team today and that is how i want us to play. Look to get on the end of passes and look to control the ball in the final third. Make runs and make space for yourself and look to cause problems for the defenders.

Subs: Vercoutre, Bedimo, Lopes, Luisao, Mvuemba, Gomis, Finnbogason.

70th Minute: Gomis on for Lacazette.
80th Minute: Mvuemba on for Gourcuff.
90th Minute: Bedimo on for Siquiera.

------------Perin

Cassani--Zouma---Balanta---Pereira

----Defour---Gargano--Delph

Berardi------------------------Insigne

-------------McCormack

Mirante
Veltman
Fabinho
Acquah
Neilton
Cassano
Mitrovic

The aim here is to play an attacking game that will overload the opposition. The front three have the ability to interchange positions making it difficult to mark. They all have a goal scoring touch and ability on the ball. Our strength in the centre of midfield is where we look to play the game, relying on outnumbering them here.

Our FBs will sit back and defend, not venturing out of position so the opposition cannot exploit space behind them. They will show the opposition out wide and look to force them into the corner flag.

Our CB duo will look to dominate the opposition attack. Zouma will look to win aerial balls and stop them moving forward whilst Balanta covers on the ground

Gargano will play the ball winning midfielder role, dropping deeper than Delph and Defour it will be his job to protect the back four and stop the build up of any dangerous attacking moves.

Delph will play the box to box role, picking up the ball deep he will burst forward to support the attack and provide another option for our attackers to set up.

Defour will look to control the play from deep and set up moves forward. He will push forward when on the ball but his over riding aim is to find the killer through ball

Berardi and Insigne will look to run at the opposition CBs to create space for McCormack. They will look to create chances and set up shots on goal.

McCormack will play a free role though not a conventional loan striker he will drop deep to find the ball and is capable of holding up play to lay off to his supporting attackers. Not only this but he is capable of creating his own chances and is also a lethal finisher.

Captain: Defour
Free Kicks: McCormack
Penalties: Defour

If winning

Acquah on for Delph 75 mins for fresh legs in midfield

If losing/drawing

Cassano on for Defour 65 mins, push Cassano into the AM position

-----------Ahamada
Srna -- Rojo --Bocchetti --Kombarov
--------Rode----Gerrard
Iturbe--------Belhanda ----Jese
--------------------Drogba

Subs: Vrsaljko/Schennikov/Arouca/Josue/Glushakov/Movsisyan/Ozbiliz

Team talk - Look to take the game to Parma today go all out pace attack and look to link it through Drogba

Ahamada:  Come out and clear crosses, Look to clear balls knocked in behind their a pacy side.

Srna: Look to force the wingers inside towards the DM, If get down the line then block crosses into box. When attacking look to whip balls in for Drogba.

Rojo: Look to sit a yard off Bocchetti so if their pacy forward gets behind look to make up the ground and get the tackle in. Also watch for any AM's trying to drift in behind the defense.

Bocchetti: Stick to the main forward keep tight to him and try to bully him off the ball. Make sure he doesn't turn you. Look to bully him aerially

Kombarov: I want you to overlap Jese and whip balls in the box for Drogba, When defending force them inside

Rode:  I want to sit and marshall infront of the defense if under pressure drop into CB and make a 3 and look to put tackles in on the AM if play one. When they come out down the wings go out to help the full backs defend them.

Gerrard: Sit deep and whip balls around the midfield, Look to go long in behind for wingers and up to drogba for flick ons

Belhanda: I want to you to drift off Drogba and look to get beyond him into the box. Look to link up with the wingers. Shoot from range if have space

Iturbe:  I want you to get the ball and run at the full back look to twist him inside and out and cut inside to link up with Drogba/Belhanda. Look to get back and defend against the winger

Jese: You're a box of tricks so use them to make yourself space and whip the ball in for Drogba. Look to get at the rb and cut inside if Kombarov comes forwards

Drogba: Bully the CB's and look to back in and bring down long balls to link up the play beyond you. If get in the box then use your aerial ability

Subs:  Movsisyan for Drogba to use pace against tired defenders.  

------------Perin

Cassani--Rami---Balanta---Pereira

----Defour---Gargano--Carvalho

Berardi------------------------Insigne

-------------McCormack

Mirante
Veltman
Fabinho
Acquah
Neilton
Cassano
Mitrovic

The aim here is to play an attacking game that will overload the opposition. The front three have the ability to interchange positions making it difficult to mark. They all have a goal scoring touch and ability on the ball. Our strength in the centre of midfield is where we look to play the game, relying on outnumbering them here.

Our FBs will sit back and defend, not venturing out of position so the opposition cannot exploit space behind them. They will show the opposition out wide and look to force them into the corner flag.

Our CB duo will look to dominate the opposition attack. Rami will look to win aerial balls and stop them moving forward whilst Balanta covers on the ground

Gargano will play the ball winning midfielder role, dropping deeper than Carvalho and Defour it will be his job to protect the back four and stop the build up of any dangerous attacking moves.

Carvalho will play the box to box role, picking up the ball deep he will burst forward to support the attack and provide another option for our attackers to set up.

Defour will look to control the play from deep and set up moves forward. He will push forward when on the ball but his over riding aim is to find the killer through ball

Berardi and Insigne will look to run at the opposition CBs to create space for McCormack. They will look to create chances and set up shots on goal.

McCormack will play a free role though not a conventional loan striker he will drop deep to find the ball and is capable of holding up play to lay off to his supporting attackers. Not only this but he is capable of creating his own chances and is also a lethal finisher.

Captain: Defour
Free Kicks: McCormack
Penalties: Defour

If winning

Acquah on for Carvalho 75 mins for fresh legs in midfield

If losing/drawing

Cassano on for Defour 65 mins, push Cassano into the AM position

Injuries: Fernando, Mikel Arteta, Aranha, Victor Andrade

Starting XI:

Artur Moraes

Silvio - Maicon Roque - Leandro Castan - Luca Antonelli

Xavi - Romulo - Hernanes

Jonathan Biabiany ---------------------- Wellington Nem

Samuel Eto'o


Subs: Helton, Wallace, Douglas, Alan Santos, Everton Ribeiro, Robinho, Leandro Damiao

Setpieces:
Long range freekicks - Xavi
Close range freekicks - Xavi
Corners - Xavi
Penalties - Eto'o

Tough game today against a strong Lazio side, we have the capacity to get at them with hard work, good ball retention and making the most of the opportunities we have.

Moraes - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones.

Maicon/Castan - Castan to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Maicon to sit and watch the runners from deep/wide. If they do play a CAM/SS, mark him but play zonally to make sure you don't get dragged out of position. Track the second striker if they play one, and do the same job Castan does to the main striker. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.

Silvio/Antonelli - I want you both to stay with the Lazio wingers, force them outside and block their crosses at source. When we have possession, push forward and support Biabiany/Wellington as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Eto'o. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Xavi/Romulo/Hernanes - I want you all to work together and dominate the midfield. Building the midfield around Xavi to maximise his impact by playing a Barca-esque formation and midfield trio. Only difference is that without the ball all three of you will work hard to win back possession. Romulo will be the one who sits and protects the back four and breaks up play, the "Busquets" role, while tracking Cabaye whenever he breaks forward. Xavi will fulfill the same role he does at Barca, keep possession, keep the ball ticking over and look for that killer pass forward if possible, all while assisting Romulo in winning back possession. Hernanes to play the "Iniesta" role, drop deep and assist but you will be the one who gets forward, you have the trickery and mentality required to fulfill this role and be our match winner. Keep the ball if nothing on, tire out the opposition by making them chase after the ball.

Biabiany/Wellington - Both playing out wide and both have the pace and trickery to beat the Lazio fullbacks and get crosses in, but both of you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Eto'o with chances and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Hernanes and Xavi, and capitalise on the space Eto'o's presence will create for you. Without the ball I expect you two to track back and assist your fullback.

Eto'o - you will be expected to occupy the Lazio centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. If they double mark you, drop wide and swap with Biabiany to leave him unmarked and near the goal. Be strong in the air and look for Hernanes/Xavi trying to pick you out. Shoot on sight.

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

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Hernanes off, Alan Santos on. Change to 4-5-1 with Alan Santos joining Xavi and Romulo in midfield as an extra DM, and the wingers playing deeper, absorb Lazio pressure and look to break with the wingers and Eto'o.
If drawing: Eto'o, Wellington and Biabiany off, Damiao, Robinho and Ribeiro on. Like for like, Damiao upfront, Ribeiro to RW, Robinho to LW. Same system with fresh legs, push for the win.
If losing: Romulo, Wellington and Biabiany off, Ribeiro, Robinho and Damiao on. Ribeiro replaces Biabiany at RW, Robinho replaces Wellington at LW, but Damiao partners Eto'o upfront with Xavi and Hernanes the CMs, playing a 4-2-2-2 with both fullbacks becoming wingbacks, push for goals.

Injuries:
Stefan Radu
John Terry
Ederson
Luca Toni

Team: 4-1-3-1-1

22 - F.Marchetti / 02 - Alex / 03 - C.Ansaldi / 04 - Y.Cabaye (c) / 05 - L.Biglia / 15 - Á.González / 21 - J.Defoe / 23 - S.Coleman / 27 - L.Cana / 29 - C.Ledesma / 87 - A.Candreva

------------- Marchetti -----------
Coleman -- Alex --- Cana -- Ansaldi
-------------- Biglia ---------------
- González - Cabaye (c) - Ledesma -
------------ Candreva -------------
-------------- Defoe --------------

Subs:
01 - E.Berisha / 10 - F.Totti / 11 - M.Klose / 12 - D.Suárez / 14 - K.Balde Diao / 24 - Q.Promes / 28 - A.Konko

Team Talk: Following a solid 2-0 win last week up against QPR we face a dangerous Santos side with new signing Xavi lining up for them. With this in mind we have altered our formation to allow us to flood the midfield. Ansaldi and our new signing Coleman to provide the width today with Candreva roaming between the lines. González deployed as an extra midfielder with responsibilities for marking Xavi, he isn't mobile any more so just prevent him from playing. Defoe to poach on anything and everything.

Marchetti - Control your box and claim the crosses, look to release it quickly to Ledesma or Cabaye

Coleman/Ansaldi - As stated in the team talk you will provide the width today for us, look to get forward and into the space that Candreva's movement provides us with. Make sure you get back however. In defence look to force their wingers inside where we have the numbers

Cana/Alex - Two big centre backs today, I'd imagine they will just play the one up front as Marky is a big fan of 4-2-3-1. Alex to mark their lone CF with Cana mopping up and picking up the wingers as they are forced inside

Biglia - Mark their CAM, a man we know well in Hernanes. You have been deployed behind the other midfielders to position yourself perfectly. You are 95% focussed on defence with your attacking duties being to win the ball and move it forward

Ledesma/González - González to mark Xavi, use your high energy and dynamic style to always be in his way. He isn't mobile so you will easily be able to stop him from settling. Ledesma is our extra man to win the ball back off their B2Ber (if they play one) and is there to get the ball to Cabaye/Candreva

Cabaye - Our ace in the middle of the park as always today. With the three midfielders around you we will be winning the ball quickly. You are to pick our Candreva as he roams, Coleman/Ansaldi as they get forward and Defoe as he uses his pace. Look to follow the ball and get into a position to shoot. Key role as ever for us

Candreva - Roaming between the lines today. When you are wide look to release our fullbacks into space, centrally look to give their midfield even more to worry about. As stated we are looking to overwhelm them at all moments and play high tempo football. Pick up Defoe with through balls whenever possible

Defoe - Cause a nuisance of yourself all day and roam between the centre backs so that they cannot settle on you. Look to get on the through balls and balls over the top as well as being in a position to poach on crosses that come in

---
Corners - Candreva
Freekicks - Indirect - Cabaye
Freeckicks - Direct - Alex
Penalties - Defoe
---
Subs:
Regardless of score at 75 minutes, Defoe OFF - Klose ON. Fresh legs up front, more of a poacher

Injuries:
Luca Toni
Alvaro Gonzalez
Denis Suarez
Antonio Candreva

Team: 4-3-2-1

22 - F.Marchetti / 02 - Alex / 03 - C.Ansaldi / 04 - Y.Cabaye (c) / 05 - L.Biglia / 14 - K.Balde Diao / 21 - J.Defoe / 23 - S.Coleman / 24 - Q.Promes / 26 - J.Terry / 29 - C.Ledesma

------------- Marchetti ----------
Coleman -- Alex -- Terry -- Ansaldi
-- Biglia - Cabaye (c) - Ledesma --
Promes ---------------- Balde Diao
-------------- Defoe -------------

Subs:
01 - E.Berisha / 10 - F.Totti / 11 - M.Klose / 17 - B.Perea / 19 - S.Lulic / 28 - A.Konko / 30 - L.P.Cavanda

Team Talk: Two weeks into the season and we're sitting pretty on the maximum 6 points. We must carry this on against a tough Ajax side. We are going with youth on the wings to attack as they do not have wingers that will track back. We will also have the numbers advantage in the middle with Cabaye playing alongside Biglia and Ledesma when we defend. We will look to break with pace and play counter attacking football to take advantage of the space caused by their attacking players not tracking back.

Marchetti - Control your box. Look to catch the crosses and release it quickly to the fullbacks

Coleman/Ansaldi - Both of you are more than capable of getting forward so I want to see you breaking forward with pace when we get the ball in order to overlap the young wingers. This will overwhelm Ajax's fullbacks as their wingers will not track back. Make sure you are always back however in order for us to defend like Trojans, forcing their wingers inside into the crowded central area

Alex/Terry - You know each others games inside out from your time playing together at Chelsea. We will be playing a deep line to prevent them using any lack of pace against us. Marshall the troops and ensure that we do not concede. Fight like dogs at the back so we have a firm foundation to launch attacks from. Hero always plays 1 up front so Terry to mark them.

Biglia/Ledesma - Of our three central midfielders both of you are to focus on defending. Biglia to pick up their CAM (Hero usually goes 4-2-3-1) and mark him out of the game. This will allow Ledesma to always be the extra man there and to pick up anyone going B2B (Strootman presumably). Prevent them from having any space. In attack play the simple pass and stay back.

Cabaye - In your usual position for us, playing alongside the central two when we are on the defence. This will ensure that we have numbers and can crowd them out. As soon as we win the ball have a look for the dream ball to the wingers, the fullbacks or over the top to Defoe. Look to follow the ball and get into a position to shoot. Key role as ever for us

Promes/Balde Diao - As stated in the team talk you are to exploit the fact that their wingers will not track back, this will provide us with plenty of room to work in. Out wide look to link up with the fullbacks when they get forward to explode past their fullbacks. Feel free to drift inside to annoy their DCM and give him yet another thing to think of. Finally you can switch wings so that they can never relax

Defoe - Cause a nuisance of yourself all day and roam between the centre backs so that they cannot settle on you. Look to get on the through balls and balls over the top as well as being in a position to poach on crosses that come in

---
Corners - Promes - Aim for the big heads of Terry and Alex
Freekicks - Indirect - Cabaye
Freekicks - Direct - Alex
Penalties - Defoe

Injuries
Lucas Piazon
Davy Propper
Lerin Duarte
Ricardo Kishna


---------------------Cillessen------------------
Janmaat---De Vrij---Umtiti---Van Aanholt
--------------Strootman--Schneiderlin------
Hazard-------------Maher--------------Praet
---------------------Wickham------------------

Subs: Vermeer, Bruma, Allan, Klaasen, Destro, Halilovic, Tielemans

You don’t win anything with kids...except trophies. High octane pressuring game aimed at keeping the ball in the opposition half as much as possible and force the opposition into mistakes in costly areas.

GK Stand tall, come for crosses that are close to you making them need to aim crosses further out. Distribute short as much as possible to our players rather than kicking the ball upfield. Be on your toes for balls in behind the defence for their striker running onto and sweep them up. Communication is key with the back four, ensure they know their role.

FBs Limit the wingers away from goal on the outside as much as possible, and for them to have to cross from deep, block any crosses coming in. Look to come forward and work the flanks yourselves at times but only one of you to go forward at once, work with our winger to stretch them doubling up and allowing you to hit crosses into the box.

CBs – Communicate with one another, don’t allow to be drawn out of position and expose gaps but keep to your role and be intelligent in when you hold and when you time tackles. De Vrij to pick up the main marking role on their striker, Umtiti to double up when required but also to be aware for marauding AMs or wingers coming inside. When in possession of the ball look to play it out to feet rather than kicks upfield, possession is tantamount to our success.

Central Mids – Schneiderlin to take the more defensive role and cut off supply through the centre, stay back and be aware of FBs coming forward to provide protection. Strootman to take a more aggressive b2b role this week. Look to pick up the ball deep and move forward with it before releasing it our forward options.

Wingers –If the fullbacks push forward, look to exploit the space behind which will either give you loads of space, or force them to drop back. You are mainly attack minded, but when under pressure, drop deeper and assist our FBs if needed. Defensively, pressurise the ball high up the pitch as soon as we lose it.

Striker & Attacking Midfielder – Play as a partnership, with both players looking to bamboozle and befuddle the opposition defence with quick interplay and boundless energy. Be constantly on the move, drag your markers dizzy and look for exchanges as you run into the box. When the ball is wide, Maher to hang just outside the box for any knock downs or loose balls. If the defence are attempting to rough you up then don't be afraid to make a meal of a rough tackle to get them on a early yellow, they'll be forced then to back off for the match. Chase the defence when they have the ball and force them to release it early.

Set pieces – Strootman & De Vrij to get into the box for set pieces and use their physical advantage to really put a fox amongst the chickens, Schneiderlin and Umtiti to remain back whilst they’ve gone up.


If losing at 65m: Halilovic, Destro and Klaassen on for Hazard, Wickham & Maher. Take similar roles but use the fresh legs to continue the assault
If winning at 70m: Maher off, Allan on, go 4-3-2-1 with Allan adding extra protection in front of the defence, if continuing to win at 80m bring on Destro for Hazard, go 4-3-1-2 and look for a fast counter.

Injuries: Luisao, Jordan Ferri, Bafetimbi Gomis, Adel Taarabt

-------------Lopes--------------
Anyukov--Kouyate--Dede--Maxwell
Stocker--Pardo--Grenier---Lallana--
------------Cabella--------------
-----------Lacazette------------

Subs: Vercoutre, Bedimo, Lopes, Fofana, Mvuemba, Finnbogason, Locadia.

Goalkeeper Instructions: Stay on your toes, and use the ball cleverley, look to play it out from the back.

Defensive Instructions:

-Defend with the 2 blocks together as a defensive 4 and midfield 4.
-Don't allow the opposition too much time to use the ball and look to get the ball forward
-Work as the defensive unit to recover the ball as soon as possible.
-Stand tall and don't commit yourselves to challenges that are not necessary.
-Look to make the smart decisions in defensive situations.
-Always look for the oppositions runners and mark them accordingly.

Attacking Instructions:

-I want the ball to be worked forward with pace through the midfield system.
-Work the ball and be patient in the build up, let the ball do all of the work for you.
-Pass and move and make the space for each other.
-Look to slip the ball in behind for Lacazette and the other attacking players.
-Cabella you are playing in a free role today and i want you to work the ball and look to play passes in behind and control the ball when we are in possession.
-Lacazette you are playing as a lone striker today and i want you to make runs in behind the defence and make a lot of work for the defence. Look to get on the end of everything that you can and look to create as well.


70th Minute: Locadia on for Lacazette.
80th Minute: Bedimo on for Maxwell.
90th Minute: Fofana on for Grenier.

Injuries: Ganso, Leandro Damiao, Silvio

Starting XI:
-----------------------Artur Moraes--------------------------
Jon Flanagan - Maicon Roque - Leandro Castan - Luca Antonelli
---------------------Fernando - Xavi-------------------------
-------------Cristian Tello - Hernanes - Diego-----------------
-----------------------Samuel Eto'o--------------------------

Subs: Helton, Wallace, Douglas, Mikel Arteta, Wellington Nem, Victor Andrade, Robinho

Setpieces:
Long range freekicks - Xavi
Close range freekicks - Xavi
Corners - Xavi
Penalties - Eto'o

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

Manager's note: Not at all happy with last week and being overrun in midfield. I expect us to work a lot harder in the middle of the park, with Fernando back from injury I expect that to not be a problem. New signings going forward in Diego and Tello, part of a trio of roaming AM's with Hernanes in a more advanced role today. Get at Lyon today, not going to allow us to not score, we have more than enough ability going forward so be ruthless, clinical and up the workrate.

Moraes - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones.

Maicon/Castan - Castan to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Maicon to sit and watch the runners from deep/wide. If they do play a CAM/SS, mark him but play zonally to make sure you don't get dragged out of position. Track the second striker if they play one, and do the same job Castan does to the main striker. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.

Flanagan/Antonelli - I want you both to stay with the Lyon wingers, force them outside and block their crosses at source. When we have possession, push forward and provide the overlap, in order to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Eto'o. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break. Link with the AM's and stretch the play when overlapping whenever the AM ahead of you is infield. Flanagan being a Scouser in a Brazilian themed team is irrelevent as he's the next Cafu Wink

Xavi/Fernando - Simple approach today, Xavi to be our deep lying playmaker, look for the wide men and fullbacks making runs, look for Eto'o with his back to goal or for the AM's making runs in and around the Lyon defence. When we lose possession, I want you to double up with Fernando as a DM to ensure we don't get taken apart by their midfielders making runs from deep. Fernando to protect Xavi, win possession and look to supply Xavi. If someone is trying to close down Xavi, "accidentally" be in their path. Use your physical advantage to bully Lyon in the middle of the park. Play as an orthadox DM when we don't have possession and track their CAM.

Diego/Hernanes/Tello - Work as a roaming trio of AM's, with Diego and Hernanes pulling the strings inside the Lyon half, and Tello being the winger, switching flanks regularly depending on where the ball is and getting the ball into the box. Diego and Hernanes are two gifted technicians, with Xavi the three of you should be easily able to retain possession and keep Lyon's midfield and defence chasing shadows. When in possession, move forward, make the most of Eto'o making runs through the middle, Tello getting wide and the fullbacks Flanagan and Antonelli getting forward. Create space and chances for those around you and for each other. Be ruthless with and without the ball. If we lose possession, push up and win it back in advanced areas, the Lyon defenders wont be too willing in possession so force them into an error.

Eto'o - When we have possession, I want you to mark the defenders, play on their shoulder and whenever the ball is played direct to you, you can either hold up the ball and supply the AM's or turn and shoot. Occasionally the ball will be played over the top and if you're level with the Lyon defenders you can outpace them both to the ball over 5-10 yards. Be clinical when in shooting range and ensure you make the keeper work at the bare minimum. When the ball is out wide, get away from your marker and get to the ball first.

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

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Diego and Hernanes off, Wellington Nem and Arteta on. Wellington Nem to LW with Tello staying at RW, Arteta alongside Xavi and Fernando in a 4-5-1 formation, absorb Lyon pressure and strike on the counter attack.
If drawing: Diego and Xavi off, Wellington Nem and Arteta on. Two like for like changes with a more rigid formation, Wellington Nem and Tello play as orthadox wingers either side of Hernanes, with Arteta and Fernando anchoring the midfield. Push for the win.
If losing: Fernando and Hernanes off, Wellington Nem and Robinho on. 4-2-3-1 changes to 4-1-3-2 with Wellington Nem and Tello either side of Hernanes, Xavi plays as the sole CM playmaking, and Robinho joins Eto'o upfront. Push for goals.

------------Perin

Cassani--Zouma---Balanta---Pereira

----Defour---Gargano--Carvalho

Berardi------------------------Insigne

-------------Cassano

Mirante
Veltman
Fabinho
Acquah
Neilton
Soriano
Mitrovic

The aim here is to play an attacking game that will overload the opposition. The front three have the ability to interchange positions making it difficult to mark. They all have a goal scoring touch and ability on the ball. Our strength in the centre of midfield is where we look to play the game, relying on outnumbering them here.

Our FBs will sit back and defend, not venturing out of position so the opposition cannot exploit space behind them. They will show the opposition out wide and look to force them into the corner flag.

Our CB duo will look to dominate the opposition attack. Zouma will look to win aerial balls and stop them moving forward whilst Balanta covers on the ground

Gargano will play the ball winning midfielder role, dropping deeper than Carvalho and Defour it will be his job to protect the back four and stop the build up of any dangerous attacking moves.

Carvalho will play the box to box role, picking up the ball deep he will burst forward to support the attack and provide another option for our attackers to set up.

Defour will look to control the play from deep and set up moves forward. He will push forward when on the ball but his over riding aim is to find the killer through ball

Berardi and Insigne will look to run at the opposition CBs to create space for McCormack. They will look to create chances and set up shots on goal.

Cassano will play a free role though not a conventional loan striker he will drop deep to find the ball and is capable of holding up play to lay off to his supporting attackers. Not only this but he is capable of creating his own chances and is also a lethal finisher.

Captain: Defour
Free Kicks: Cassano
Penalties: Defour

If winning

Acquah on for Carvalho 75 mins for fresh legs in midfield

If losing/drawing

Soriano on for Defour 65 mins, push Cassano into the AM position

Starting XI:

------------- Forster --------------
Zapata---Badstuber --- Mexes---Coentrao
-------- Pirlo(C) --- Toulouan --------
------------ Benayoun  --------------
-- Birsa  ------------------- Bastos --
-------------- Austin ----------------

Set peices:
CK: Pirlo
FK: Pirlo
Pens: Pirlo

Subs:
Danny Ings
Shaun Wright-Phillips
Scott Brown
Kevin Doyle
Benoit Assou-Ekotto
Ronaldinho
Andy Johnson

After back to back defeats in the last two games I want us to keep things tight for the first twenty mins and control the tempo of the game through Pirlo and Toulouan, keep the ball, but keep it moving through midfield. Bastos and Birsa should hug the touchlines and be our outlet when central midfield needs to move the ball out of danger quickly, attack the full backs and look to get a range of crosses into the forward. Defensively I want both wingers to support the full backs and double up on the opposing wingers when we don’t have the ball. Austin should play on the last man, press the two CB's whenever they have possession and generally put himself about, looking to get in the box and poach as soon as the wingers get on the ball in the wide areas. Benayoun will support as much as possible playing in the hole, creating and latching on to knock downs from Austin. Man for man marking at set pieces, with full backs on the posts for CK’s, when attacking CK’s full backs and Toulouan to remain deep.

Subs: De Sanctis, Vesovic, Gazzi, Mertens, Campbell, Morrison, Rodrigo

Team talk: My regime starts today. I am looking for a solid base and spine to the side that needs to be difficult to break down. We sit and contain and hit on the break with the pace and mobility of our front 3.

Defensive tactics:
Centre backs stay back and zonally mark their man. If they play one up front then Barzagli will pick them up and Ghoulam will play spare, picking up runs from midfield and clearing loose balls.

The full backs will pick up any wingers and look to force them wide and deep, so any cross need to come from deep positions, which we should be able to cope with.

The three centre mids will sit and protect the back four, giving us two solid lines that the opposition will need to break down.

Attacking tactics:
We will sit and invite the opposition on to us to try and create space between their midfield and defence. We will then look to counter quickly using the power and pace of our front three.

Jorginho will also play box to box in order to provide some support if have to chase the game.

Cerci will play as the spare man, he will roam looking to find space. He will then use his pace and trickery to run at the opposition.

The full backs will look to support the attack to provide some width, getting crosses in.

Sturridge and Immobile will play in tandem, staying close to each other and working together. At times, they should both look to move wide to open up the centre backs and create space for Cerci to run into.

Substitutions:
If wiining on 70 minutes – Cerci and Immobile off, Campbell and Mertens on




If losing on 70 minutes – Tachtsidis off, Mertens on

Injuries: Douglas, Leandro Damiao, Alan Santos, Eugenio Mena

Starting XI:
------------------Artur Moraes-----------------------
Silvio - Maicon Roque - Leandro Castan - Luca Antonelli
---------------Gary Medel - Xavi---------------------
--------Cristian Tello - Hernanes - Diego--------------
------------------Samuel Eto'o-----------------------

Subs: Helton, Jon Flanagan, Mateo Musacchio, Mikel Arteta, Wellington Nem, Victor Andrade, Robinho

Setpieces:
Long range freekicks - Xavi
Close range freekicks - Xavi
Corners - Xavi
Penalties - Eto'o

----------------------
Manager's note: Very tough game against Torino and their new manager, I expect us to work very hard in the middle of the park. With the roaming AM's of Tello, Hernanes and Diego we can drag the Torino defenders all over the place, and with Xavi pulling the strings supported by Medel we can control the tempo and possession of the game as well. Get at Torino today, not going to allow us to not score, we have more than enough ability going forward so be ruthless, clinical and up the workrate.

Moraes - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones.

Maicon/Castan - Castan to mark their striker, force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Maicon to sit and watch the runners from deep/wide. If they do play a CAM/SS, mark him but play zonally to make sure you don't get dragged out of position. Track the second striker if they play one, and do the same job Castan does to the main striker. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.

Silvio/Antonelli - I want you both to stay with the Torino wingers, force them outside and block their crosses at source. When we have possession, push forward and provide the overlap, in order to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Eto'o. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break. Link with the AM's and stretch the play when overlapping whenever the AM ahead of you is infield.

Xavi/Medel - Simple approach today, Xavi to be our deep lying playmaker, look for the wide men and fullbacks making runs, look for Eto'o with his back to goal or for the AM's making runs in and around the Torino defence. When we lose possession, I want you to double up with Medel as a DM to ensure we don't get taken apart by their midfielders making runs from deep. Medel to protect Xavi, win possession and look to supply Xavi. If someone is trying to close down Xavi, "accidentally" be in their path. Use your physical advantage to bully Torino in the middle of the park. Play as an orthadox DM when we don't have possession and track their CAM.

Diego/Hernanes/Tello - Work as a roaming trio of AM's, with Diego and Hernanes pulling the strings inside the Torino half, and Tello being the winger, switching flanks regularly depending on where the ball is and getting the ball into the box. Diego and Hernanes are two gifted technicians, with Xavi the three of you should be easily able to retain possession and keep Torino's midfield and defence chasing shadows. When in possession, move forward, make the most of Eto'o making runs through the middle, Tello getting wide and the fullbacks Silvio and Antonelli getting forward. Create space and chances for those around you and for each other. Be ruthless with and without the ball. If we lose possession, push up and win it back in advanced areas, the Torino defenders wont be too willing in possession so force them into an error.

Eto'o - When we have possession, I want you to mark the defenders, play on their shoulder and whenever the ball is played direct to you, you can either hold up the ball and supply the AM's or turn and shoot. Occasionally the ball will be played over the top and if you're level with the Torino defenders you can outpace them both to the ball over 5-10 yards. Be clinical when in shooting range and ensure you make the keeper work at the bare minimum. When the ball is out wide, get away from your marker and get to the ball first.

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

Subs 70 mins:
If winning: Diego and Hernanes off, Wellington Nem and Arteta on. Wellington Nem to LW with Tello staying at RW, Arteta alongside Xavi and Medel in a 4-5-1 formation, absorb Torino pressure and strike on the counter attack.
If drawing: Diego and Xavi off, Wellington Nem and Arteta on. Two like for like changes with a more rigid formation, Wellington Nem and Tello play as orthadox wingers either side of Hernanes, with Arteta and Medel anchoring the midfield. Push for the win.
If losing: Medel and Hernanes off, Wellington Nem and Robinho on. 4-2-3-1 changes to 4-1-3-2 with Wellington Nem and Tello either side of Hernanes, Xavi plays as the sole CM playmaking, and Robinho joins Eto'o upfront. Push for goals.

Injuries:
Alessio Cerci
Timo Horn
Semih Kaya
David Pizarro




Subs: Padelli, Ghoulam, Vesovic, Wijnaldum, Morrison, Campbell, Larrondo

Team talk: We play a 4-42, but with narrower widemen, who will come inside behind the front men and allow the full backs to overlap and provide the width. Alonso will sit and dictate the tempo, feeding the 4 forwards and the overla[pping full backs. Plenty of quick passing and movement of the ball to stretch the opposition and create space. Defensively, Alonso and De Jong sit deeper to protect the defence to allow the full backs more freedom to get forward

Defensive tactics:
Centre backs stay back and zonally mark their man. If they play one up front then Barzagli will pick them up and Martinez will play spare, picking up runs from midfield and clearing loose balls.

The full backs will pick up any wingers and look to force them wide and deep, so any crosses need to come from deep positions, which we should be able to cope with.
Alonso and De Jong will sit and protect the back four, and the wide men will drop back to give us two solid lines that the opposition will need to break down.

Attacking tactics:
Alonso will sit deep and dictate the play, feeding those further forward.
Jorginho and Mertens will start wide, but look to attack the channel between CB and FB, as well as trying to find space between the defence and midfield.
The full backs will look to support the attack to provide some width, getting crosses in.
Sturridge and Immobile will play in tandem, staying close to each other and working together. At times, they should both look to move wide to open up the centre backs and create space for Cerci to run into.

Substitutions:
If winning on 70 minutes – Jorginho off, Wijnaldum on


If losing on 70 minutes - De Jong off, Campbell on

Team: 4-1-3-1-1

22 - F.Marchetti / 02 - Alex / 03 - C.Ansaldi / 04 - Y.Cabaye (c) / 05 - L.Biglia / 15 - J.Stones / 16 - R.Barkley / 21 - J.Defoe / 23 - S.Coleman / 29 - C.Ledesma / 87 - A.Candreva

-------------- Marchetti -----------
Coleman -- Stones -- Alex -- Ansaldi
--------------- Biglia ---------------
-- Cabaye (c) - Ledesma - Barkley --
------------- Candreva -------------
--------------- Defoe --------------

Subs:
01 - E.Berisha / 10 - F.Totti / 12 - D.Suárez / 14 - K.Balde Diao / 24 - Q.Promes / 27 - J.Wilson / 28 - A.Konko

Team Talk: After a solid draw last up against Ajax we can push on to take our place at the top of the league. We are going to hit them on the wings with the pace of Coleman and Ansaldi combined with Candreva roaming around to pull an ageing Xabi Alonso out of place. We are also going with numbers in the middle with Cabaye and Barkley probably the best two midfielders in the league. Up front Defoe is by himself to utilise his pace to roam between their centre backs.

Marchetti: Control your box, look to release the ball to Barkley, Cabaye or the fullbacks

Coleman/Ansaldi - As stated in the team talk I want you to roam forward, looking to exploit the space that Candreva's movement provides you with. We are playing quite narrow in the middle of the park so you must provide the width. It is very important that you get back to defend however, ensure that we are not caught out. In defence force their wingers inside to where there is no room at all. When forward aim the crosses at Barkley, Cabaye and Candreva.

Stones/Alex - I'd imagine they will go with just Sturridge up front, Alex to mark him and use his experience to nerf him. Sturridge is a player that turns off when the going gets tough. Force him to constantly run into dead ends and he will get annoyed. Stones to use his youth to sweep and pick up the wingers as they are forced inside

Biglia - You are our enforcer today. Protect the back four and put in the hard tackles. I want their players not wanting to come anywhere near to you. In attack you move the ball forward and stay where you are. You are part of a central back trio

Ledesma - Playing just in front of Biglia it is your job to pick up their CAM. You are focussed on defence and as such are part of flooding the midfield. In attack look to play the simple passes and provide an option for Barkley/Cabaye as a pass back

Barkley/Cabaye - You are both more attacking minded than our other two central midfielders however you have specific roles. Cabaye to play his diamond in the middle role that has caused our surge up the table, play the gorgeous passes before following them forward and getting in a position where you can shoot. Barkley on the other hand is playing the role he is best at, being a mixture of a CAM and a B2B midfielder. Getting forward and carrying the ball forward. Both of you are key to us winning today as you can overwhelm them with both of you getting forward at once

Candreva - As stated in the team talk you are to roam around between the lines to drag the ageing Xabi Alonso out of position. When you go wide look to release the fullbacks past you into space, when central look to link up with Barkley/Cabaye and thread it through to Defoe. Finally feel free to take a pot shot once in a while

Defoe - Up front alone and as previously mentioned you are to use your pace to drift between their CBs and as such prevent them from sticking to you. Look to be in a position to get onto any through balls as well as being a poacher as we overwhelm them

---
Corners: Candreva, aim for the big heads of Alex and Stones
Freekicks - Indirect - Cabaye
Freekicks - Direct - Alex
Penalties - Barkley
---
Subs:
Regardless of score at 70 mins - Defoe OFF : Wilson ON. Fresh youthful legs up front as we push for further goals, goals, GOALS!