Week 3

Team Sheets and tactics due by COB Thur
Predictions close Sat 12pm. Results done Mon

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Everton v Man City
Cloudy, 13 Degrees, 13mph Winds

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Everton
Manager – Hodgey

------------------- Howard -------------------

Neville ----- Jagielka ----- Juan -------- Baines

------------- Rodwell ----- Fellaini ------------

--- Pedro ----------- Kaká -------- Coleman ---

------------------- Benzema -------------------

Hibbert, Distin, McEachran, Livermore, Bilyaletdinov, Zamora

General:
We are going to aim to play a more offensive game as we are at home. Yet, we must also be solid at the back, hence the 4-2-3-1 formation as a more reserved approach leaving us with rich attacking options still. When we have the ball we will be simple and efficient and not lose possession easily. We must get at City since their back four is depleted. Defensively we must be hard working and cover every blade of grass to ensure that no gaps are left for City as their attackers are particularly strong. Pressurising the man on the ball is the key today and we must minimise the time City's midfield have on the ball. Disrupt.

Defence:
Jagielka is captain so will lead by example like he always does. Neville will continue from where he left off last week in an unchanged back four which did well to contain Arsenal and limit their attack. It is a huge job for the defence today because City's strongest area is their attack. Therefore, we will need to man-mark and be tight to the man all the time. Pressurising players, giving no room for manoeuvre whilst also doing nothing silly. Both centre-halves will go forward at corners and the full backs will sit on the half-way line.

Midfield:
We have a resolute sitting midfield combination in Rodwell and Fellaini and both have established a good understanding this season. Their strength and composure on the ball is vital today for ball retention. They must sit and help the defence and pick up their men from midfield since our attacking three, with the exception of Coleman, are more attacking-inclined. Kaka has license to do what he does best: roam and cause defenders problems with that touch of class he has. He can pick a killer ball and is instructed to be on the look-out for that at all times. He is not prohibited from shooting. The wingers must be creative and trouble the full-backs, testing them out wide and whipping it in. Both must track back.

Attack:
Benzema is a deadly finisher so has been given a start to let him show me what he can do. He will look to keep both centre-halves busy and must roam wherever he wants to occupy them. Can shoot from range if he feels appropriate. Hold up play if isolated is vital but if not, spread it wide and sprint into the box to get something on it. For corners must be in our half and looking to counter.

Substitutions:
If losing after 70 mins:
Rodwell > Zamora, 4-1-3-2
Coleman > Bilyaletdinov, Bily onto the wing

If winning after 70 mins:
Kaka > Livermore, 4-3-2-1
Benzema > Zamora, Zamora striker and looking to infiltrate midfield and disrupt.
Pedro > Bilyaletdinov, Bily advised to defend only.

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Man City
Manager – Pull

Starting Team and Formation

-------------------- J. Hart --------------------
------------------------------------------------
Richards ---- Marchena -- Kompany ---- Zabaleta
------------------------------------------------
------------------- Busquets --------------------
--------------- Barry ------ Milner --------------
------------------------------------------------
- D. Silva ----------------------------- Di Maria -
------------------------------------------------
-------------------- Aguero --------------------

Subs:

GK Stuart Taylor
CB Scott Higginbotham
LB Daniel Agger
DM Owen Hargreaves
CM Yaya Toure
WG Andrei Arshavin
ST Michael Owen

General Tactics

Last week was disastrous for us. We've been hit hard with injuries, and we were a little short on personnel. We're hoping to bounce right back with a strong performance and the win today.

We've gone with 4-5-1 again, hoping to overwhelm Everton's midfield and swamp them in possession. The midfield three will work hard to neutralise threats before they materialise.

We'll be strong and competitive at the back. The experienced Carlos Marchena has come in on loan to add stability and organisation at the back. Busquets will form the foundation to play from in midfield. We'll use the pace on the wings to get around the back of Utd and create space for our finishers.

This is a big game for us, and one we're relishing. This is a good chance to prove our title credentials.

Player roles

Goalkeeper: Joe has grown in stature in recent years and provides some much needed confidence and stability at the back. He will be strong in his area, commanding crosses and corners. Joe is one of the best shot stoppers in the game, so if he was to come into a one on one situation, we are confident of his abilities.

Full Backs: Richards returns from injury and Zabaleta switches to left back, where he is more than comfortable. They will look to feed the wingers and let them go forward. After the game opens up a bit, they will be given a licence to go forward and overlap the wingers to create some space down the flanks.

Centre Backs: The emphasis will be on strength and organisation for Kompany and Marchena today. Constant communication will enable them to wipe out any attacking threats from the opposition early. Vincent to lead by example.

Centre Midfielders: Busquets has been asked to play the deep role today, and I'll be wanting him to be the link man in attack and the man to break up the Utd attacks. Milner and Barry to be box to box midfielders helping out in both attack and defence. Concentrate in possession and work hard to close down when in search of the ball.

Wingers: The wingers offer pace, skill and flair. Angel gets his start after an impressive impact from the bench. They've been encouraged to take people on and get involved at every opportunity. It is important also to remember their defensive duties - they need to work hard and get back to help out.

Target Man: Aguero is not your traditional target man but he is so good at keeping possession he will be key. He'll play off the shoulders of players and look for the break, using his pace. Di Maria and Silva will get up to help, creating a 4-3-3 in attack.

Plans

If winning after an hour: Keep going for ten minutes and pile the pressure on. Then calm it down, but don't get lazy. Bring on Yaya for Di Maria, and stick him in the middle with Milner going out wide. Owen on for Aguero to play the target man role.

If losing after an hour: Bring on Yaya for Barry and Owen for Milner, switching to 4-4-2. Arshavin to come on for Di Maria or Silva and add a spark of flair on the wing.

COME ON CITY!

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Aston Villa v Arsenal
Cloudy, 13 Degrees, 11mph Winds

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Aston Villa
Manager – Fisher

---------------------------------------GIVEN----------------------------------------------------

ANYUKOV---------------SHAWCROSS---------------------COLLINS---------------------TAIWO

-------------------------HUDDLESTONE---------------SONG------------------------------------

-------------------------------------GOURCUFF-----------------------------------------

KALOU----------------------------------------------------------------AGBONLAHOR---

---------------------------------IBRAHIMOVIC---------------------------------------

GER

Subs:

John Ruddy
Stephen Warnock
Ciaran Clark
Jermaine Jenas
Kevin Nolan
Marc Albrighton
Marouane Chamakh

TACTICS:

General:

4-2-3-1 formation. Arsenal like to pass around in their style so we will do our best to prevent that. Aeriel balls to Ibrahimovic with Kalou and Agbonlahor supporting. Man marking at the back, try and keep things very tight.

DEFENCE:

Collins and Shawcross will stay back and man mark, but use their heading ability on set peices. Anyukov will keep the left winger from going inside and will stay back, with Taiwo allowed to attack a bit more. Keep an eye on Van Persie, never allow him to be unmarked.

MIDFIELD.

Huddlestone will sit very deep. He will play sideways passes out and try and get Kalou and Agbonlahor to use their pace. He will also try and find Ibra will long balls. Song will play as a box to box midfielder. He will sit and break up play, pass it simply, but can also got foreard sometimes and mae chances and shoot. Gourcuff will play as a playmaker. He will basically have a free role, operating through the middle but also out wide.

FORWARDS:

Kalou and Agbonlahor are forwards although they are playing wide, so im relying on them to support Ibrahimovic and try and get a goal. If they get a chance, they could take them. They will play very wide but then the winger on the opposite side to where the ball is will come inside the box. Both will try and beat full backs, then put in a cross or cut inside and shoot. Ibrhaimovic will play as a target man, and will link well with Gourcuff in particular.

SUBS:

IF WINNING:

Albrighton > Kalou (more defensive, help out Anyukov, put crosses in) 70 mins
Jenas > Gourcuff ( more defensive minded) 85 mins

IF LOSING:

Chamakh > Huddlestone ( 4-4-2 Chamakh goes upfront with Ibra, Gourcuff slightly deeper) 65 mins
Albrighton > Song ( extra attacking player, go for it) 80 mins

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Arsenal
Manager – Luke

Team:


----------------- Szczesny ------------------
---------------------------------------------
Sagna -- Mertesacker --- Dunne (c) ---- Gibbs
---------------------------------------------
------------ De Jong ---- Wilshere -----------
---------------------------------------------
------------------ Ramsey ------------------
----- Cazorla ------------------ Arteta ------
---------------------------------------------
----------------- Van Persie -----------------


Subs:
Ashdown
Vermaelen
King
Diaby
Benayoun
Walcott
Bent


Tactics:

General:
Possession. Possession. Possession.
Short passing, movement off the ball, triangles all over the pitch, keeping the ball on the deck, patient build up play, wait for the right moment to probe, don't force the issue. Defend as a team from the front. Arteta and Cazorla to assist full backs.

Defence:
Szczesny to command his area - be very vocal and come for crosses. Encouraged to look for short options rather than kick long. Dunne and Mertesacker stay tight together. Mertesacker to go meet the ball, Dunne sweeping in behind. Mertesacker to stick to Ibrahimovic and beat him in the aerial battle. Whole defence to defend as a unit. Sagna and Gibbs first job is to defend, but when we are in possession provide an outlet out wide.

Midfield:
De Jong is the destroyer - sitting deep protecting the back four. Wilshere to hold his position and dictate play from deep. Ramsey given a free role with license to find space. Both Arteta and Cazorla are given license to drift into space wherever they find it. All to receive ball to feet and look to hit the channels for our pacey attack. Use triangles to take players out of the game and attack from there. Don't be afraid to go backwards and start again. Tire opposition down by making them chase the ball.

Attack:
Van Persie to play the compete forward role - look to position himeslf on Collins and give him a hard time. Cazorla, Arteta and Ramsey try to get in those holes behind Van Persie and feed cute little passes behind the defence.

Set Pieces:

Defending:
Corners - All bar Cazorla back. FB's on the post. Man marking. Dunne, Mertesacker and RvP to take biggest players. Wilshere on the edge of the box. Look to counter attack straight away.

Free Kicks - All bar Cazorla back. Szczesny to dictate wall. Man marking in the middle. Look to counter attack straight away.

Attacking:
Corners - Two CB's go forward. Full backs stay back. Cazorla to take from both sides. Mix up whipped crosses, short routines etc. Keep the ball away from opposition GK.

Free Kicks - Within range RvP/Cazorla to have a shot. Out of range take it short, retain possession, start again if we need to.

Subs:

Winning:
Diaby > Ramsey - 70 mins - Sit alongside De Jong. Wilshere slightly further forward.
Bent > RvP - 80 mins - Like for like. Stretch the opposition with pace.
Walcott > Arteta - 80 mins - Walcott right, Cazorla left. Stretch the opposition with pace.

Losing:
Bent > De Jong - 70 mins - 4-4-2
Walcott > Arteta - 70 mins - Walcott right, Cazorla left. Both to play much wider.
Benayoun > Cazorla - 80 mins - Try to create something out of nothing.

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Chelsea v Newcastle
Sunny, 15 Degrees, 8mph Winds

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Chelsea
Manager – Follow

---------------------------------- Green -----------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Ivanovic ---------- Skrtel -------------------- Terry ----------- A Cole
----------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------- Fletcher ----------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------- Essien -------------- Lampard -------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
------------ Robben -------------------------------- Mata ------------
--------------------------------- Torres ------------------------------

SUBS:
C.Gordon
G.Cahill
J.Riise
E.Cambiasso
Ramires
B.Bannan
D.Goodwillie

TACTICS:

General Tactics:

Get the ball on the ground and look to play fast attacking football. Look to keep and retain possession as much as possible, keep the ball moving whenever we have it, stretch the Newcastle defence and perform to the best of your ability.

Defence:

Green will look to command his area, should come for as many corners or crosses as he can, he should be very vocal and should talk to JT and Skrtel as much as possible. Terry will lead the team from the back, he should look to go for every first ball and win any aerial battles. Skrtel will slot in behind him as the deeper of the two, he will be the last line of defence and if John doesn't win the first ball he should be there to win the second. Ivanovic and Cole will look to get forward and join attacks as much as possible, although Ashley will be the more attacking of the two. If one full back is pushed far forward the other one steps back, and if both go far forward then Essien will look to cover in for one of them.

Midfield:

The midfield have to work together at all times as the midfield battle will be the most important today. Fletcher will need to tackle hard and look to win the ball back for the team. He sits infront of the back 4, and provides the vital protection and balance a winning team needs. He will look to dominate the game from the start, Newcastle have a strong central midfield and Fletcher will have to protect the defence by stopping the threat of them. Essien will be the link-up man in midfield, he will come deep and receive the ball from the defence and look to play the ball through to our attacking players. He will use his excellent engine and work-rate to play as a box-to-box midfielder. Lampard will be given a free role, and will be the main attacking threat from the midfield. He joins attacks whenever possible and plays the way he has done for years, late runs into the box and has licence to have a shot from distance whenever he wants.

Attack:

The two wingers are the main supply to Torres and we will look to get them the ball as much as possible. They will get the ball down and attack the Newcastle back-line whenever the can. They will also look to mix it up throughout the game, sometimes getting the ball down the by-line and getting crosses in but they can also come inside and look to influence the game more centrally, allowing the full-back to provide width. Torres will look to play off the last man at all times. We will look to build everything off him so it is vital he is the vocal point up top at all times. However, he should look to make runs wide now and again with Frank filling the gap up top.

Subs:

70 Minutes:

Whatever the score - Ramires on for Essien - straight swap

75 Minutes:

If winning - Bannan on for Lampard - straight swap

If drawing/losing - Goodwillie on for Fletcher - flat 4-4-2, Robben RW, Ramires and Lampard CM, Mata LW and Goodwillie and Torres up top.

C - John Terry
P/K - Frank Lampard
F/K - Frank Lampard
C/K - Juan Mata

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Newcastle
Manager – Driver

-------------------- Krul -------------------
-------------------------------------------------
Simpson- Colocinni(c) -- S Taylor --- R Taylor
-------------------------------------------------
-----Gosling-------- Tiote ------- Cabaya -----
------Villa----------------Johnson-------
---------------------Ba--------------------

Subs:Harper , Williamson , Ben Arfa , Jonas , Sammy , Guthrie , Ferguson


Tactics

- Possetion football - keep the ball in there half and play safety first football with Villa and Johnson being allowed to roam and cause havoc and give our midfield options and free up space for Ba up front.

- Tiotie will look to make a nusience of himself and get stuck into the chelsea ball players and rattle them early doors.

- Ba will also look to hold up the ball and use the pace of Johnson and Villa to get away from the Chelsea centre halfs and beat the offside trap.

- Cabaye and Ryan Taylor will look to shoot from distance and cause the keeper some concerns early doors.

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Stoke City v Liverpool
Cloudy, 12 Degrees, 12mph Winds

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Stoke City
Manager – Guv

---------------------- Sorensen ---------------------
vd Wiel ------ Woodgate ----- Upson ---------- Bridge
---------------------- Beckham ---------------------
------------- Meireles ---------- Murphy -------------
--- Duff ----------------------------------- J.Cole ---
----------------------- Dzeko -----------------------

Subs
Turnbull
Shotton
Wilkinson
Delap
Pennant
Etherington
K.Jones

Defence:
Woodgate and Upson to deal with the long balls, one going to the ball, the other covering. The full backs will support the attack when we have the ball but stay back otherwise. We want to keep things tight.

Midfield:
Beckham to play a deep lying playmaker role looking to retain possession with short accurate passes to teammates or look to release Dzeko or the widemen where space opens up. He will take freekicks in and around the opposition penalty area as well.

Meireles and Murphy to break up play when not in possession. Get the ball wide if wide men in space or look for Beckham. Wide men to offer width when we have the ball but to support the full backs when not in possession.

Strikers
Dzeko to lead the line and draw Liverpool's centre halves out of position. Duff and Cole to support Dzeko. Both have licence to come inside and swap flanks but both need to provide a wide option once we win the ball back. If the ball goes out to one flank, the opposite wide man will move inside to support Dzeko.

Substitutions:
If winning:
K.Jones ---> Duff at 75 mins, go to 4-4-2 with Murphy RM, Cole LM. Fresh legs plus greater strength and ariel ability to counter late Liverpool attacks. Utilise Delap thows.

If losing:
K.Jones ---> Duff at 70 mins, Beckham to RW, 4-4-2 with Jones/Dzeko up front.

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Liverpool
Manager – Pav

------------------------------------- Reina -------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Johnson ----------- Carragher -------------------- R. Johnson --------------- Aurelio
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------- Adam ----------------------- Toulalan ----------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----- Maxi R. ---------------------- Gerrard -------------------------- Suarez -----
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------ Forlan --------------------------------------
Substitutes
Paul Robinson
Luke Young
Jordan Henderson
Andy Carroll
Craig Bellamy

Tactics:

Sticking to what we know with the same line up. Stoke will be tricky and we are motivated to get back to winning ways.

Dzeko will be a handful but the aim for the CB's will be to engage in communication, stay strong and keep the striker in front them as much as possible.

Both full backs are up against good wingers so will need to be alert and ensure they see little of the ball to supply the front man with. When attacking, both full backs have licence to go forward and offer a wide option.

Adam and Toulalan will be up against stern opposition in Stoke's midfield but they know their abilities and they will be utilised. Both will look to hold position in midfield, ensure the opposition see as little of the ball as possible and when on the ball, look to play quick passing to the front men.

The attacking midfielders are completely interchangeable and shouldn't look to stay still. Look for the space and make themselves hard to mark. Once on the ball, drive towards goal to put pressure on the opposition's defence. Wingers to track back and aid full backs if the team is defending. Gerrard also has licence to go from range should the chance arise and will also be the chief free-kick taker

Forlan has free roam. Can play wherever he likes in the final third. He knows what he is capable off and has got some creative players behind him who will supply him with chances. He has penalty taking duty.

If winning, stay the same for 90 mins.

If loosing, Bellamy and Carroll on for Forlan and Maxi.

Toulalan to go DM, Gerrard and Adam to push forward and Bellamy and Suarez push on in support of Carroll.

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Man Utd v Tottenham
Cloudy, 12 Degrees, 12mph Winds

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Man Utd
Manager – Kam

------------------ Kuszczak ------------------
----------------------------------------------
Smalling ---- Vidic (c) ---- Rio ---- Evra
----------------------------------------------
-------------Mascherano ----Jones---------------
------------------------------------------
-- Nani------------Iniesta-------------A. Young --
----------------------------------------------
------------------- Rooney -----------------


Subs:
Kenny
Fabio
O'Hara
Giggs
Carrick
Wellbeck
Hernandez

Tactics:

General:
Dominating the midfield is key to winning this game.
Playing at home with the crowd buzzing will also be a huge lift to the players I feel.
Mascherano and Jones will be chasing Modric and Parker and stopping them feeding Eto.
However, once we have posession, I find it key that Nani, Iniesta and Young interchange when necessary to move the midfield and defence and create space for Rooney.

Defence:
Vidic and Rio to organise the defence and midfield and can call on Mascherano and Jones to help out when needed. The full backs will only go forward when deep in opposition territory.

Midfield:
Masch and Jones to balance the midfield and stop potential attacks on the defence. Modric will most likely to be the main creator for Spurs, so either Jones and Mascherano can keep close to him whilst the other protects the back 4.
Iniesta, Nani and Young can all interchange and play it simple but fast. Any opportunity to play in Rooney is encouraged. Iniesta, Nani and Young to assist Ronney once deep in opposition base. Jones to move up whilst Mascherano to hold back in case of counter-attack.

Attack:
Rooney to stay on the shoulder of last man but can play anywhere on the top to make the defence moving. Iniesta and Nani to move further up and and assist Rooney.

Subs:

Winning:
Carrick > Jones - 80 mins - Keep the ball and shift to to the attackers
Fabio > Young - 70 mins - Can double up with Evra if need be and not so much attacking but helping the left side of defence and midfield.

Losing:
Jones> Hernandez - 65 mins - 4-1-3-2. Mascherano to stay as DM whilst Hernandez plays up top and Rooney stays between their defence and attack.
Giggs>Young - 70mins - More direct and running at defenders

---

Tottenham
Manager – Fernando

------------------Friedel
Walker - Koscielny - Gallas - abidal
------------- Parker -------- Modric
Lennon -------------- -------------- Kranjcar
----------------Eto'o--- Defoe

subs
Gomes
Assou Ekotto
Corluka
Pienaar
Sandro
Dos Santos
Adebayor

Team talk
Today is going to be a very tough game against a man utd side, I expect you to battle hard and work yourselves into the ground

Defence
I want a deep laying defence as their got fast players to run in behind so if the space ain't there they can't do it. When the ball is coming through the centre i want the full backs to tighten up inside

Midfield
Parker: I want you to sit and marshall the back 4 no need to go forward today just defend, Modric: i want you to sit as well but push forward when can and play as a deep playmaker with balls out wide, Lennon + Bale : i want you both to take on your full backs to keep them back there, if they go past you stay on the half way line and wait for modric to knock the ball into their space behind the defence you can run onto

Forward
Eto'o : drop inside and make late runs in behind the defence
Defoe: Stick on a defender and pull each way making space for Samuel to run into

subs
65mins Adebayor + Dos santos for Lennon and Parker

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---

-------------------- Krul -------------------
-------------------------------------------------
Simpson- Colocinni(c) -- S Taylor --- R Taylor
-------------------------------------------------
-----Gosling-------- Tiote ------- Cabaya -----
------Villa----------------Johnson-------
---------------------Ba--------------------

Subs:Harper , Williamson , Ben Arfa , Jonas , Sammy , Guthrie , Ferguson


Tactics

- Possetion football - keep the ball in there half and play safety first football with Villa and Johnson being allowed to roam and cause havoc and give our midfield options and free up space for Ba up front.

- Tiotie will look to make a nusience of himself and get stuck into the chelsea ball players and rattle them early doors.

- Ba will also look to hold up the ball and use the pace of Johnson and Villa to get away from the Chelsea centre halfs and beat the offside trap.

- Cabaye and Ryan Taylor will look to shoot from distance and cause the keeper some concerns early doors.

---------------------------------------GIVEN----------------------------------------------------

ANYUKOV---------------SHAWCROSS---------------------COLLINS---------------------TAIWO

-------------------------HUDDLESTONE---------------SONG------------------------------------

-------------------------------------GOURCUFF-----------------------------------------

KALOU----------------------------------------------------------------AGBONLAHOR---

---------------------------------IBRAHIMOVIC---------------------------------------

GER

Subs:

John Ruddy
Stephen Warnock
Ciaran Clark
Jermaine Jenas
Kevin Nolan
Marc Albrighton
Marouane Chamakh

TACTICS:

General:

4-2-3-1 formation. Arsenal like to pass around in their style so we will do our best to prevent that. Aeriel balls to Ibrahimovic with Kalou and Agbonlahor supporting. Man marking at the back, try and keep things very tight.

DEFENCE:

Collins and Shawcross will stay back and man mark, but use their heading ability on set peices. Anyukov will keep the left winger from going inside and will stay back, with Taiwo allowed to attack a bit more. Keep an eye on Van Persie, never allow him to be unmarked.

MIDFIELD.

Huddlestone will sit very deep. He will play sideways passes out and try and get Kalou and Agbonlahor to use their pace. He will also try and find Ibra will long balls. Song will play as a box to box midfielder. He will sit and break up play, pass it simply, but can also got foreard sometimes and mae chances and shoot. Gourcuff will play as a playmaker. He will basically have a free role, operating through the middle but also out wide.

FORWARDS:

Kalou and Agbonlahor are forwards although they are playing wide, so im relying on them to support Ibrahimovic and try and get a goal. If they get a chance, they could take them. They will play very wide but then the winger on the opposite side to where the ball is will come inside the box. Both will try and beat full backs, then put in a cross or cut inside and shoot. Ibrhaimovic will play as a target man, and will link well with Gourcuff in particular.

SUBS:

IF WINNING:

Albrighton > Kalou (more defensive, help out Anyukov, put crosses in) 70 mins
Jenas > Gourcuff ( more defensive minded) 85 mins

IF LOSING:

Chamakh > Huddlestone ( 4-4-2 Chamakh goes upfront with Ibra, Gourcuff slightly deeper) 65 mins
Albrighton > Song ( extra attacking player, go for it) 80 mins

Arsenal have named their side to travel to Villa Park this week to play Aston Villa.

They have made 4 changes to the side that beat Everton, with Kieran Gibbs and Per Mertesacker coming into the back four at the expense of Joan Capdevila and Thomas Vermaelen, and Jack Wilshere and Mikel Arteta coming in to replace Theo Walcott and Darren Bent.

Manager LukeLovesLuka said:

With the quality with have in the league these days I think it is essential you change things for home games and away games. Last week we went 4-4-2 against Everton, and it worked well for us. But this week, away to Villa, we'll be playing more of a narrow 4-2-3-1 - it's just about adjusting to your opponents really.

I've brought in Per (Mertesacker) and Kieran (Gibbs) for that very reason. Villa have pace out wide, and Kieran is exceptionally quick, and they also have Ibrahimovic leading their line, and we'll be looking to Per to win the high balls coming into the box.

Aaron (Ramsey) and Mikel (Arteta) come into the side for their quality on the ball - posession could prove key for us this week. And it's a real luxury to be able to use the pace of Theo (Walcott) and Darren (Bent) off the bench, particularly away from home.

Arsenal team vs Aston Villa:

Team:


----------------- Szczesny ------------------
---------------------------------------------
Sagna -- Mertesacker --- Dunne (c) ---- Gibbs
---------------------------------------------
------------ De Jong ---- Wilshere -----------
---------------------------------------------
------------------ Ramsey ------------------
----- Cazorla ------------------ Arteta ------
---------------------------------------------
----------------- Van Persie -----------------


Subs:
Ashdown
Vermaelen
King
Diaby
Benayoun
Walcott
Bent


Tactics:

General:
Possession. Possession. Possession.
Short passing, movement off the ball, triangles all over the pitch, keeping the ball on the deck, patient build up play, wait for the right moment to probe, don't force the issue. Defend as a team from the front. Arteta and Cazorla to assist full backs.

Defence:
Szczesny to command his area - be very vocal and come for crosses. Encouraged to look for short options rather than kick long. Dunne and Mertesacker stay tight together. Mertesacker to go meet the ball, Dunne sweeping in behind. Mertesacker to stick to Ibrahimovic and beat him in the aerial battle. Whole defence to defend as a unit. Sagna and Gibbs first job is to defend, but when we are in possession provide an outlet out wide.

Midfield:
De Jong is the destroyer - sitting deep protecting the back four. Wilshere to hold his position and dictate play from deep. Ramsey given a free role with license to find space. Both Arteta and Cazorla are given license to drift into space wherever they find it. All to receive ball to feet and look to hit the channels for our pacey attack. Use triangles to take players out of the game and attack from there. Don't be afraid to go backwards and start again. Tire opposition down by making them chase the ball.

Attack:
Van Persie to play the compete forward role - look to position himeslf on Collins and give him a hard time. Cazorla, Arteta and Ramsey try to get in those holes behind Van Persie and feed cute little passes behind the defence.

Set Pieces:

Defending:
Corners - All bar Cazorla back. FB's on the post. Man marking. Dunne, Mertesacker and RvP to take biggest players. Wilshere on the edge of the box. Look to counter attack straight away.

Free Kicks - All bar Cazorla back. Szczesny to dictate wall. Man marking in the middle. Look to counter attack straight away.

Attacking:
Corners - Two CB's go forward. Full backs stay back. Cazorla to take from both sides. Mix up whipped crosses, short routines etc. Keep the ball away from opposition GK.

Free Kicks - Within range RvP/Cazorla to have a shot. Out of range take it short, retain possession, start again if we need to.

Subs:

Winning:
Diaby > Ramsey - 70 mins - Sit alongside De Jong. Wilshere slightly further forward.
Bent > RvP - 80 mins - Like for like. Stretch the opposition with pace.
Walcott > Arteta - 80 mins - Walcott right, Cazorla left. Stretch the opposition with pace.

Losing:
Bent > De Jong - 70 mins - 4-4-2
Walcott > Arteta - 70 mins - Walcott right, Cazorla left. Both to play much wider.
Benayoun > Cazorla - 80 mins - Try to create something out of nothing.

Tactics updated

---------------------------------- Green -----------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Ivanovic ---------- Skrtel -------------------- Terry ----------- A Cole
----------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------- Fletcher ----------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------- Essien -------------- Lampard -------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
------------ Robben -------------------------------- Mata ------------
--------------------------------- Torres ------------------------------

SUBS:
C.Gordon
G.Cahill
J.Riise
E.Cambiasso
Ramires
B.Bannan
D.Goodwillie

TACTICS:

General Tactics:

Get the ball on the ground and look to play fast attacking football. Look to keep and retain possession as much as possible, keep the ball moving whenever we have it, stretch the Newcastle defence and perform to the best of your ability.

Defence:

Green will look to command his area, should come for as many corners or crosses as he can, he should be very vocal and should talk to JT and Skrtel as much as possible. Terry will lead the team from the back, he should look to go for every first ball and win any aerial battles. Skrtel will slot in behind him as the deeper of the two, he will be the last line of defence and if John doesn't win the first ball he should be there to win the second. Ivanovic and Cole will look to get forward and join attacks as much as possible, although Ashley will be the more attacking of the two. If one full back is pushed far forward the other one steps back, and if both go far forward then Essien will look to cover in for one of them.

Midfield:

The midfield have to work together at all times as the midfield battle will be the most important today. Fletcher will need to tackle hard and look to win the ball back for the team. He sits infront of the back 4, and provides the vital protection and balance a winning team needs. He will look to dominate the game from the start, Newcastle have a strong central midfield and Fletcher will have to protect the defence by stopping the threat of them. Essien will be the link-up man in midfield, he will come deep and receive the ball from the defence and look to play the ball through to our attacking players. He will use his excellent engine and work-rate to play as a box-to-box midfielder. Lampard will be given a free role, and will be the main attacking threat from the midfield. He joins attacks whenever possible and plays the way he has done for years, late runs into the box and has licence to have a shot from distance whenever he wants.

Attack:

The two wingers are the main supply to Torres and we will look to get them the ball as much as possible. They will get the ball down and attack the Newcastle back-line whenever the can. They will also look to mix it up throughout the game, sometimes getting the ball down the by-line and getting crosses in but they can also come inside and look to influence the game more centrally, allowing the full-back to provide width. Torres will look to play off the last man at all times. We will look to build everything off him so it is vital he is the vocal point up top at all times. However, he should look to make runs wide now and again with Frank filling the gap up top.

Subs:

70 Minutes:

Whatever the score - Ramires on for Essien - straight swap

75 Minutes:

If winning - Bannan on for Lampard - straight swap

If drawing/losing - Goodwillie on for Fletcher - flat 4-4-2, Robben RW, Ramires and Lampard CM, Mata LW and Goodwillie and Torres up top.

C - John Terry
P/K - Frank Lampard
F/K - Frank Lampard
C/K - Juan Mata

Stoke City team (vs Liverpool (H) )


---------------------- Sorensen ---------------------
vd Wiel ------ Woodgate ----- Upson ---------- Bridge
---------------------- Beckham ---------------------
------------- Meireles ---------- Murphy -------------
--- Duff ----------------------------------- J.Cole ---
----------------------- Dzeko -----------------------

Subs
Turnbull
Shotton
Wilkinson
Delap
Pennant
Etherington
K.Jones

Defence:
Woodgate and Upson to deal with the long balls, one going to the ball, the other covering. The full backs will support the attack when we have the ball but stay back otherwise. We want to keep things tight.

Midfield:
Beckham to play a deep lying playmaker role looking to retain possession with short accurate passes to teammates or look to release Dzeko or the widemen where space opens up. He will take freekicks in and around the opposition penalty area as well.

Meireles and Murphy to break up play when not in possession. Get the ball wide if wide men in space or look for Beckham. Wide men to offer width when we have the ball but to support the full backs when not in possession.

Strikers
Dzeko to lead the line and draw Liverpool's centre halves out of position. Duff and Cole to support Dzeko. Both have licence to come inside and swap flanks but both need to provide a wide option once we win the ball back. If the ball goes out to one flank, the opposite wide man will move inside to support Dzeko.

Substitutions:
If winning:
K.Jones ---> Duff at 75 mins, go to 4-4-2 with Murphy RM, Cole LM. Fresh legs plus greater strength and ariel ability to counter late Liverpool attacks. Utilise Delap thows.

If losing:
K.Jones ---> Duff at 70 mins, Beckham to RW, 4-4-2 with Jones/Dzeko up front.

------------------------------------- Reina -------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Johnson ----------- Carragher -------------------- R. Johnson --------------- Aurelio
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------- Adam ----------------------- Toulalan ----------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----- Maxi R. ---------------------- Gerrard -------------------------- Suarez -----
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------ Forlan --------------------------------------
Substitutes
Paul Robinson
Luke Young
Jordan Henderson
Andy Carroll
Craig Bellamy

Tactics:

Sticking to what we know with the same line up. Stoke will be tricky and we are motivated to get back to winning ways.

Dzeko will be a handful but the aim for the CB's will be to engage in communication, stay strong and keep the striker in front them as much as possible.

Both full backs are up against good wingers so will need to be alert and ensure they see little of the ball to supply the front man with. When attacking, both full backs have licence to go forward and offer a wide option.

Adam and Toulalan will be up against stern opposition in Stoke's midfield but they know their abilities and they will be utilised. Both will look to hold position in midfield, ensure the opposition see as little of the ball as possible and when on the ball, look to play quick passing to the front men.

The attacking midfielders are completely interchangeable and shouldn't look to stay still. Look for the space and make themselves hard to mark. Once on the ball, drive towards goal to put pressure on the opposition's defence. Wingers to track back and aid full backs if the team is defending. Gerrard also has licence to go from range should the chance arise and will also be the chief free-kick taker

Forlan has free roam. Can play wherever he likes in the final third. He knows what he is capable off and has got some creative players behind him who will supply him with chances. He has penalty taking duty.

If winning, stay the same for 90 mins.

If loosing, Bellamy and Carroll on for Forlan and Maxi.

Toulalan to go DM, Gerrard and Adam to push forward and Bellamy and Suarez push on in support of Carroll.

Man City Tactics

Starting Team and Formation

-------------------- J. Hart --------------------
------------------------------------------------
Richards ---- Marchena -- Kompany ---- Zabaleta
------------------------------------------------
------------------- Busquets --------------------
--------------- Barry ------ Milner --------------
------------------------------------------------
- D. Silva ----------------------------- Di Maria -
------------------------------------------------
-------------------- Aguero --------------------

Subs:

GK Stuart Taylor
CB Scott Higginbotham
LB Daniel Agger
DM Owen Hargreaves
CM Yaya Toure
WG Andrei Arshavin
ST Michael Owen

General Tactics

Last week was disastrous for us. We've been hit hard with injuries, and we were a little short on personnel. We're hoping to bounce right back with a strong performance and the win today.

We've gone with 4-5-1 again, hoping to overwhelm Everton's midfield and swamp them in possession. The midfield three will work hard to neutralise threats before they materialise.

We'll be strong and competitive at the back. The experienced Carlos Marchena has come in on loan to add stability and organisation at the back. Busquets will form the foundation to play from in midfield. We'll use the pace on the wings to get around the back of Utd and create space for our finishers.

This is a big game for us, and one we're relishing. This is a good chance to prove our title credentials.

Player roles

Goalkeeper: Joe has grown in stature in recent years and provides some much needed confidence and stability at the back. He will be strong in his area, commanding crosses and corners. Joe is one of the best shot stoppers in the game, so if he was to come into a one on one situation, we are confident of his abilities.

Full Backs: Richards returns from injury and Zabaleta switches to left back, where he is more than comfortable. They will look to feed the wingers and let them go forward. After the game opens up a bit, they will be given a licence to go forward and overlap the wingers to create some space down the flanks.

Centre Backs: The emphasis will be on strength and organisation for Kompany and Marchena today. Constant communication will enable them to wipe out any attacking threats from the opposition early. Vincent to lead by example.

Centre Midfielders: Busquets has been asked to play the deep role today, and I'll be wanting him to be the link man in attack and the man to break up the Utd attacks. Milner and Barry to be box to box midfielders helping out in both attack and defence. Concentrate in possession and work hard to close down when in search of the ball.

Wingers: The wingers offer pace, skill and flair. Angel gets his start after an impressive impact from the bench. They've been encouraged to take people on and get involved at every opportunity. It is important also to remember their defensive duties - they need to work hard and get back to help out.

Target Man: Aguero is not your traditional target man but he is so good at keeping possession he will be key. He'll play off the shoulders of players and look for the break, using his pace. Di Maria and Silva will get up to help, creating a 4-3-3 in attack.

Plans

If winning after an hour: Keep going for ten minutes and pile the pressure on. Then calm it down, but don't get lazy. Bring on Yaya for Di Maria, and stick him in the middle with Milner going out wide. Owen on for Aguero to play the target man role.

If losing after an hour: Bring on Yaya for Barry and Owen for Milner, switching to 4-4-2. Arshavin to come on for Di Maria or Silva and add a spark of flair on the wing.

COME ON CITY!

Team vs Spurs

------------------ Kuszczak ------------------
----------------------------------------------
Smalling ---- Vidic (c) ---- Rio ---- Evra
----------------------------------------------
-------------Mascherano ----Jones---------------
------------------------------------------
-- Nani------------Iniesta-------------A. Young --
----------------------------------------------
------------------- Rooney -----------------


Subs:
Kenny
Fabio
O'Hara
Giggs
Carrick
Wellbeck
Hernandez

Tactics:

General:
Dominating the midfield is key to winning this game.
Playing at home with the crowd buzzing will also be a huge lift to the players I feel.
Mascherano and Jones will be chasing Modric and Parker and stopping them feeding Eto.
However, once we have posession, I find it key that Nani, Iniesta and Young interchange when necessary to move the midfield and defence and create space for Rooney.

Defence:
Vidic and Rio to organise the defence and midfield and can call on Mascherano and Jones to help out when needed. The full backs will only go forward when deep in opposition territory.

Midfield:
Masch and Jones to balance the midfield and stop potential attacks on the defence. Modric will most likely to be the main creator for Spurs, so either Jones and Mascherano can keep close to him whilst the other protects the back 4.
Iniesta, Nani and Young can all interchange and play it simple but fast. Any opportunity to play in Rooney is encouraged. Iniesta, Nani and Young to assist Ronney once deep in opposition base. Jones to move up whilst Mascherano to hold back in case of counter-attack.

Attack:
Rooney to stay on the shoulder of last man but can play anywhere on the top to make the defence moving. Iniesta and Nani to move further up and and assist Rooney.

Subs:

Winning:
Carrick > Jones - 80 mins - Keep the ball and shift to to the attackers
Fabio > Young - 70 mins - Can double up with Evra if need be and not so much attacking but helping the left side of defence and midfield.

Losing:
Jones> Hernandez - 65 mins - 4-1-3-2. Mascherano to stay as DM whilst Hernandez plays up top and Rooney stays between their defence and attack.
Giggs>Young - 70mins - More direct and running at defenders

Aston Villa 1-1 Arsenal
Ibrahimovic
Cazorla

Maybe a surprise result but Aston Villa's midfield were top draw today. Arsenal fielded a more reserved side with a 4-5-1 formation and, although they do have more class in midfield, Villa's DM pair were combatitive and dogged all day. van Persie was relatively ineffective too, with Shawcross and Collins roughing him up a bit. Ibrahimovic scored early on before Cazorla snatched a goal back for Arsenal to make it a deserved draw.

===

Chelsea 2-1 Newcastle
Torres, Mata
Villa

It was a relatively comfortable win for Chelsea over a Newcastle side which seemed to run out of ideas despite a bright start. Newcastle crowded the midfield but it was only a matter of time before Chelsea's quality in that area prevailed and after their perseverance it wasn't long. Torres got the first when he swept home a teasing Mata cross into Newcastle's area which their defenders failed to deal with. The Spaniard then added the extras himself, catching Krul off-guard. Newcastle managed to halve the deficit late on when Villa exploited a Skrtel mistake but it was little more than a consolation.

===

Stoke City 0-1 Liverpool
Gerrard

It's been a tough couple of weeks for Stoke as they have been hit hard by a speight of injuries that no team would like to endure. They have been particularly hit in the midfield area and unfortunately this is where Liverpool have strength. Steven Gerrard gave his former England captain Beckham the run around all day today and got the only goal of the game with a low drive from 20 yards. Stoke did threaten but lacked the incision or the potency in front of goal.

===

Man Utd 2-0 Tottenham
Iniesta, Rooney

An attacking gamble by Spurs today at Old Trafford didn't pay off as United ran out comfortable winners. The home side have great quality in midfield but are also a well-drilled and disciplined side too. However, they didn't need to be too disciplined today since Spurs left plenty of gaps and exposed their central midfielders due to their 4-4-2 formation. Iniesta flourished and got on the scoresheet whilst later assisting Rooney with a world-class defence splitting ball.

Aston Villa 1 - 1 Arsenal
Kalou ; Van Persie

Villa swamp the midfield and battle their hearts out. Leading until the 85th minute when RvP popped up to grab the equaliser.

===

Chelsea 2 - 0 Newcastle
Mata, Ivanovic

I just don't see Newcastle scoring in this match with the way Chelsea have lined up.

===

Stoke City 1 - 2 Liverpool
Duff ; Forlan, Maxi

Stoke held their own initially, and went ahead. I think Liverpool's midfield would wear Stoke down eventually and hit them on the break.

===

Man Utd 2 - 1 Tottenham
Nani, Rooney ; Eto'o

Spurs have lined up a bit too attacking away from home against the champions - I think Utd would soak up the pressure and do enough for the win.

Thought I did mine Friday. Whoops.

Everton 1-1 Man City
Jagielka: Aguero

Sterling effort from the home side. Set up well and were a match for City throughout.


===
Aston Villa 1-1 Arsenal
Ibrahimovic: Ramsey

Great stuff from the home side. Unlucky not to get a winner with some late pressure but fully deserving of a point.


===
Chelsea 2-0 Newcastle
Mata (2)

Away side put up a fight for period's of the game but home side just too strong.


===
Man Utd 1-0 Tottenham
Ashley Young

Settled by one goal but a stunning 30 yard goal which would be fit to win any match. Home side should have had more but shooting boots weren't on today.

Everton 1-2 Man City
Kaka-----D.Silva, Milner
A very good match here between two strong sides. Everton started positively at Goodison and saw alot of the ball early on, with Fellaini dominating the midfield. The attacking 4 looked very good with Pedro causing problems in particular. But Man City grew in stature and began to regain possesion with a hard working midfield that kept possesion well. And the City opener came on the break when Kaka was dispossesed by Busquets and he found Milner. He combined with Aguero to set up Silva for 1-0. Everton equalised before half time though, Pedro having the better of Zabaleta before cutting back for Kaka to finish. The winner came on the hour mark when Neville and Jagielka got in a mix up, Aguero was quicket to it and he slotted in Milner who had an open net to fire into. There were chances at both ends, Zamora going closest for Everton, but City held on and nearly got a 3rd through Aguero.

Chelsea 2-0 Newcastle
Mata, Lampard (pen)
A tight game this one but in the end Chelsea had that extra quality. Newcastle defended well early on, with Collocini getting the better of Torres. But going forwward Newcastle didnt look great. Chelsea had a very strong midfield and dominated possession. Cabaye occasionally created but Ba didnt look great. Villa was the mian threat of course, but out on the right he was kept under wraps by Ahley Cole. Just before half time, the game opened up a bit through a quality peice of skill. The excellent Fletcher found Torres dropping deep and his flick found Mata who lobbed the keeper in style. And in the 71st min sub Ramires went on one of his runs into the box and was bought down by Steven Taylor. Lampard scored and it stayed 2-0.

Stoke 2-3 Liverpool
Beckham, Dzeko--- Suarez, Forlan, Gerrard
A cracking game at the Brittania. Stoke were unlucky but their defence was a bit too open and couldn't deal with the attack of Liverpool. In midfield Liverpool looked stronger but Stoke did well in the first half, with Beckham playing long balls all over and Meireles looking good. Duff threatened and curled a shot just wide. Adam and Gerrard couldnt get in the game as much. Stoke took the lead in classic style with a trademark Beckham free kick which made the Brittania go crazy. But after this Liverpool started to play some nice stuff, with Adam pulling the strings. Suarez was on form and he equalised with a 25 yard strike. Maxi always had the beating of Bridge and he set up a quick 2nd for Forlan. Stoke responded in the 2nd half and when Beckham moved out wide, his cross set up a stunning Dzeko header to equalise. It looked as though the scores would stay the same but Stoke looked nervous at the back and when Upson gave away possesion to Forlan, he saw the onrushing Gerrard who smashed in to the bottom corner. Lovely finish and a win for Liverpool.

Man Utd 1-0 Tottenham
Hernandez
A bit of a risk for Spurs playing 4-4-2 at Old Trafford but for periods of the game it looked good. The start was fairly cagey, with 2 strong defences on top. Modric was looking at creating for Spurs, and they had the first real chance of the game when Modric set up Defoe, who forced a fine stop from Kuzszack. Nani went close form 30 yards for United and it looked like United would go in at half time infront as Iniesta started finding space and creating. He and Jones were having stormers but a fine stop from Friedel to deny Rooney and a great clearance from Gallas to stop Jones kept it at 0-0. In the second half it began to look like 1 of those days for United where they did everything but score. And this gave Spurs confidence and a mistake from Ferdinand lead to an Eto'o chance, but he fired wide. Man Ud eventually got the winner. Rooney joined Iniesta deeper and were causing havoc for the defence. They combined to find sub Ryan Giggs out wide and his cross fell to Rooney who flicked on and fellow sub Hernandez was, as usual, in the right place to nod in. Devastaion for Tottenham but huge relief at Old Trafford for Man Utd.

Everton 2 - 2 Man City
Benzema ---- Aguero
Pedro -------- Silva

Hard earned point for both sides. Two relatively evenly matches sides. Man City probably edge the quality overall but at a passionate Goodison Park the home side gave everything and despite seeing their early lead evaporate into a 2-1 deficit, late pressure eventually told as Pedro drilled home a loose ball after a scramble following a corner.

Ason Villa 0 - 1 Arsenal
------------------ RvP

Not much in this match really with both sides even in midfield and attack. Defence is where Arsenal look stronger and this is finally what made the difference as the visitors held firm whilst one minor lapse from the home defence allowed van Persie a chance which he took.

Chelsea 2 - 1 Newcastle United
Mata ---------- Ba
Lampard

Chelsea were the stronger side without doubt and the amount of possession and attacking play from the warranted the victory but they had to work hard and showed vulnerability at the back inherited from the previous manager which allowed Ba to equalise Mata's opener and give Newcastle a good chance of picking up a point. However, Lampard remained a threat throughout the match and he got on the end of a decent move to drill home with 10 minutes remaining.

Man Utd 1 - 0 Tottenham
Young

Utd dominated much of this match but found Spurs in belligerent mood with Parker in particular maintaining his excellent early season form. The only goal came from Ashley Young as he swept home after good work from Smalling and Nani down the right. Spurs pushed for an equaliser and there could have been goals at both ends as Utd hit them on the break but Young's goal proved enougn in the end.