Hero's League of Huzzah's and Danger: Tactics Season 2

Welcome to the Tactics Submission Page for Hero's League of Huzzahs and Danger

Please post your League match tactics with the format and title as below:

Gameweek 1. “YOUR TEAM IN CAPS” vs “opposition team”

Line-up:

Subs:

Captain:

Tactics:

Obviously your Lineup should include 11 players and 7 Subs.

Make sure you check your weeks Injuries as if any injured players are part of the starting 11 this will affect your team and effectively they will be starting with 10 players. Ensure that injuries are noted on your tactics submission.

Please ensure that you also note which is the home & away team in the title.

There are no restrictions on tactics but please try not to make them too long as we’d like to take into consideration managers have a minimum of four sets to read through on voting days.

Anyone who consistently Copy and Pastes tactics every week may find their teams results take a nose dive.

Week 1

Porto v MALAGA

Injuries: Tim Wiese and Miralem Pjanić

Formation: 4-2-3-1:

----------------------------------Vicente Guaita--------------------------------

Steven Taylor----Michael Dawson---Toby Alderweireld---------José Manuel Catalá

-----------------------------Gueïda Fofana-----Jack Rodwell-----------------------

----------Salomon Kalou-------------Gaston Ramirez-----------Nolito---------------

-------------------------------------Lucas Barrios---------------------------------

Subs: Ruben Martinez, Alessandro Gamberini, Mouhamadou Dabo, Darron Gibson, Nicklas Bendtner, Nicolas Anelka, Mateo Kovacic

Captain: Michael Dawson

Tactics:

Overview: Porto is an extremely tough side, but they can be got at in a lot of areas. Firstly, they have a lack of speed in their back four and an over-reliance on their CDM. Pace and pressure could cause them to crumble. Secondly, they are missing their best CB and captain. Lastly, is their expectation and over-confidence. They may see this as an easy first win to start their campaign. However Malaga, as a team, is up for this and refuses to back down for a team of individuals who think too highly of themselves. Our tactics are thought out, and will attack their weaknesses, while taking account of their strengths. The main aim is to kick and rush, and to get into Porto’s faces right from the start.

Guaita: The goalkeeper comes into the side with a lot of eagerness to take the number 1 jersey this season. The back 4 will be playing just past the edge of the area, so you won’t need to worry about balls over the top. Be alert, and get the ball out quickly when you have it. Kick it long to the front 4, who will be sprinting as a unit to the opponent’s area.

Defence: The back 4 should stay back down the pitch and not to push up too far. This will eliminate balls being played through and over us. If Porto wishes to attack, then they will have to be forced to run though us….not pass through us. Our back four is very intimidating physically for this reason. Our FB’s should stay back. There is no need to get forward for overlaps, as this would compromise us at the back. Fofana will be there to shield the back 4, and Rodwell will also provide cover. When we have the ball, look to launch it forward to the three forward players. Speed is the most important thing. Defend it, and get it long quickly.

Fofana: I want you to sit in front of the defence, and never stray beyond the centre circle. When the opponents get into our half, chase after it and get it off them. You have fresh legs, and a superb engine. I want you to use your physical attributes to get into the faces of the Porto’s AM’s, who are young and easily intimidated. When you get the ball, stay calm and look for Rodwell, or pass the ball back to the back 4 who will launch it forward. In the time it takes to do this, our front players would be piling forward.

Rodwell: A key player to this match. Defensively, you should help provide cover when Fofana is chasing the ball. This means being watchful for marauding AM’s that come into space left by Fofana going after the ball. The most important thing is when we attack. With the ball going over your head to the 3 players in front of you, you will be able to charge up the pitch. And, as you are playing box-to-box and positioning quite deep, it is impossible for Porto to pick you up. If they try to, it will hopelessly split their team in the middle, with the CDM’s playing far too high up the pitch and unable to track back for the 3 attacking players. If they don’t mark you, then you have free reign to get into the opponents area time and again. In fact, you are our main attacking threat….being unmarked as you stealthily get into the opponents area, ready to attack the ball when crosses come in.

Nolito/Ramirez/Kalou: Speed is the main attribute you all share, but also most importantly your ability to play each other’s positions. I want the Porto’s CDM’s to split apart trying to chase you around the pitch. Interchange on a regular basis, which will completely throw any CDM marking ideas they may have. Kalou and Nolito can change sides and also play just behind Barrios. Ramirez can play either side as well. When our players have the ball, I need you work together and run at the opponent. Take advantage of their lack of pace and draw the CDM’s and CD’s out so Rodwell can exploit the space. Look to do this by also getting the ball and taking it out wide, getting to the byline and then crossing/drilling it in for Barrios and the unmarked Rodwell. If the way is blocked, then shoot from range. All three of you have great long range shooting attributes. I need a high energy and fast paced match from you three.

Barrios: Play to your strengths as a goal poacher. Most of the action will be played just behind you, but you need to be ready to get on the end of the crosses that Nolito, Ramirez or Kalou provide. Try and play slightly to the left or right of centre. This adds to the Porto’s defensive confusion….does the FB or the CB pick you up? Then you would be all set up for a diagonal run into the box to get onto crosses either in the air or along the floor.

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

Substitutions after 70mins:
Anelka FOR Barrios
Kovacic FOR Ramirez

Losing or not, a straight CF swap will provide fresh legs and more pace up front. Kovacic comes in for Ramirez in CAM. Nolito and Kalou can still interchange from the flanks, but Kovacic can provide another element of creativity in the middle if we need a goal, as well as being able to launch his long range efforts. The tactics remain the same however…..kick and rush. Fast, speed orientated football to get Porto tired and out of position on a regular basis.

Substitutions if winning after 70mins:
Gamberini FOR Nolito
Anelka FOR Barrios

Formation switches to 5-4-1, with Gamberini slotting into the middle of defence. Forfana and Rodwell become our CM’s and their tactics remain the same, with Rodwell getting forward to support Anelka now. Ramirez goes on the left and Kalou on the right. They will stay out wide and attack both FB’s, aiming to get to the byline and drill the ball in for Rodwell and Barrios.

Tottenham vs LAZIO

Week 1

Formation - 4-2-3-1

Starting XI
GK – Federico Marchetti
RB – Vedran Corluka
LB – Martin Caceres
CB – Diego Lugano
CB – Johnny Heitinga
DM – Momo Sissoko
DM – Cristian Ledesma (C)
AM – Ever Banega
RW – Mauro Zarate
LW – Gabriel Agbonlahor
CF – Alessandro Matri

---------------------Marchetti--------------------
Corluka--------Heitinga------Lugano-------Caceres
--------------Sissoko------Ledesma---------------
Zarate--------------Banega------------Agbonlahor
---------------------Matri------------------------

Subs: Frimpong, Bizzarri, Lodeiro, Diakite, Klose, Pepe, Elm

Injuries: Diego Buonanotte, David Pizarro

It’s the first week of the season and we want to get off to the best start possible and bag three points at Spurs. I have set out a team that will look to exploit Spurs lack of a top class DM, and likely commitment to attacking us. I therefore go with two DM’s, and my strongest possible back four to contain them, and allow my ‘front’ four to create goals and chances against a Spurs backline that I believe to be vulnerable -- particularly to my wingers pace and trickery.

Goalkeeper

Marchetti starts as first choice and he will, as ever, communicate with the men in front, and marshall them to where he sees they need to be. Shots to be stopped and held where possible and a dominance of his own area will be expected. Adebayor will be up front, so if he challenges you aerially, make sure you go in hard but fair, and I’m sure the referee will seek to protect you if he is going in too roughly.

Defence

Corluka and Caceres

The two full backs will be expected to play sensibly this week, and keep a balance between attack and defence. The Spurs squad lacks natural width but we would expect them to line up with players on the wings. The first priority is to stop the cross coming in, either by shepherding them in to the corner or away from goal. There is no need for diving in this week, so both Corluka and Caceres will be expected to stay on their feet and use positional sense to minimise the threat. In attack, they are allowed to get forward and support the wingers in front, and to provide a pass for the DM’s. But they mustn’t get too high up the field as we want a solid back line.

Lugano & Heitinga

Spurs have Adebayor and Doumbia available, and we are preparing for them both to start up front. Lugano and Heitinga have huge experience, and both will be expected to man mark and limit the involvement of the front men. Lugano at 6”2 will be marking the lanky Adebayor, and Heitinga will take Doumbia, should he start. Both players have a burst of pace, so our defensive line will be fairly deep to stop them breezing past, and when they are running at the CB’s, they will stay on their feet and seek to slow the attack and shepherd them in to a less dangerous area. If only one striker starts, Lugano will man mark, and Heitinga will watch for midfield runners, and double the striker where needed.

Midfield

Sissoko will start in DM where he is most at home. Spurs are likely to go with the FFA’s best left-footed-attacking-midfielder-that-used-to-play-for-Santos, Ganso, in AM, and Sissoko will be in his face for 90 minutes, jostling him, rushing him, and at times roughing him up. He will be tracked everywhere he goes by the more athletic Sissoko, and hopefully this will lead to frustration for the untested starlet. On the ball, Sissoko will keep it simple, and give it to Ledesma to build attacks, or forward to the wing or Banega if the ball is riskless.

Ledesma sits alongside Sissoko in DM but will look to take control of the football and keep a metronomic pace in midfield with short, patient passing, and look to get the ball to Banega ahead, and to both Agbonlahor and Zarate. He will have a role to play in defence, and will pressure the ball when it comes in to his area, and he’ll look to send attacks backwards. Clever positioning is required to maximise interception potential. If Spurs came with a second AM, Ledesma would be given a man marking task similar to Sissoko, when defending, but will remain the man to transition us from defence to attack with the ball.

Banega starts as our AM, and will have to be full of energy and invention. He will look to get the ball out wide where he can, or slip Matri in behind the slowing Spurs back line. He will be looking to arrive in to the box late and to sniff out loose balls and rebounds and pounce for a goal. Shooting is encouraged if he has time and space, and if no more obvious passes are available. In defence his role will be to track with the Spurs DM, and look to nick the ball back and start a quick counter, making sure not to let him settle on the ball and pass it around comfortably.

Agbonlahor is on the left wing today. With his extreme pace, he is capable of taking on his full back on the inside and out, and if he can carve himself an opening to shoot, he will be encouraged to, cutting inside on his right foot. If he goes outside, crosses should be hung up to Matri, who is tall and will be able to climb high to meet them. When crosses come from the other wing, he will lurk at the back post to snatch any chances that come his way. Tracking with his full back is required, but mostly he will look to take advantage going the other way by exploiting them being out of position.

Zarate starts on the right wing. He will also look to get the ball in when he is on the outside, but if he has a chance to cut in to the box and link with Matri or Banega, he will, and he won’t be shot shy. He has a sprinkle of trickery to his game so he will be looking to make his FB commit, and to buy that little bit of time and space to create and score goals. As with Agbonlahor, he will get far post for crosses, and will track his full back, whilst considering his positioning for a breakaway attack.

Strikers

Matri will look to get in the box and get on the end of the balls in from the wings and to get his head or feet to them. He has plenty of support from the wings and behind, so if he can’t shoot, he can hold it up and turn and look for the best option around him rather than take wasteful or speculative efforts. He has the body strength to play this way, but when his back is not to goal, he will be making runs and displacing defenders, or better yet, getting on the end of some through balls.

Corners will be taken by Ledesma today and he’ll be looking for Matri or Lugano to get their heads on it.

Penalties from Zarate

Free kicks taken by Zarate who will look to shoot when in range.

Subs:

@65mins
If behind Elm comes on for Ledesma and looks to get forward more frequently, and will be encouraged to shoot and carve out shooting chances.

@75 mins
If still behind, bring Klose on for Agbonlahor and Lodeiro on for Banega and go to a flat 4-4-2 with Zarate RM, Lodeiro LM

@70mins
If winning, Ledesma comes off for Frimpong who will buzz around and stamp out attacks and generally be a nuisance alongside Sissoko.

@80mins
If winning Elm will come on for Banega and Klose on for Matri in like for like changes and look to get the goals to kill the game off.

Porto v Malaga

Injuries (Chiellini & Martins)
Captain: De Rossi

Formation 4-2-3-1

This season is up and running and this year we want to play football the simple way, short pass and move, short pass and move, looking for space whilst retaining possession, dragging players out of position and exposing gaps.
By retaining the ball and completing simple yet effective passes the opposition simply become frustrated and make mistakes. Pressure is kept high up the pitch with the aim to keep the ball in the oppositions half for long periods of the game through a combination of accuracy and patience, even when we don’t have the ball to pressure to win it back in their half. Look to move the ball across the midfield section rather than bringing it along the back four.

The keywords for the players today are ‘Intelligent Movement’.


GK: Reina – Be vocal to the backline, make them aware of exactly what you want them to do in regards to set pieces and pushing up. Don’t punch the ball unless absolutely necessary. Be on your toes for any shots from outside the box to test you. Look to come out early for crosses from the wings and then set the ball lose to our players forcing them back immediately.

RB: Van Der Weil – Probably up against Kalou or Nolito today depending on which wing they play. Pace wise either are slightly slower than you so close him down early and apply pressure to him as he goes for the ball. Look to keep him on the outside and slow him down into the corners. Once you have the ball go forward and link up play with midfield and Hulk with quick neat intelligent passes.

LB: Perreira – You’re also an extremely fast wingback so they will not be beating you for pace, make sure you’re blocking the winger placing balls through into the box. Once you have the ball then work forward down the sides to provide options to the midfield to move the ball around the pitch.

CBs: Vertonghen & Godin – Expecting Anelka or Barrios alone up front so if that’s the case Godin is to man mark as he can match him for pace and is excellent at nullifying attackers. Vertonghen is to pick up the pieces if the striker escapes his marker but mainly to be used to plug gaps of their AM marauding forward and block passes/crosses into the box. If Malaga do play with two up front then look to cover a player each. Play a high back line to maintain the high pressure tactic on Malaga. Vertonghen is to play on the right side of the centre to be in line with his former Ajax team mate VDW.

CMs: Fellaini & De Rossi – Fellaini is to play predominately in the defensive role today and to really physically impose himself in front of the back four. Stifle and break down Malaga’s midfield threat by pressuring for the ball immediately and regaining control. Look to stay back and monitor the gaps posed by our wingbacks if they push high up the pitch. Remember, one or two touches and move. Your foundation then provides our forward players to create opportunity. With your height look to be first to any high balls from kicks and get the ball back down on the ground and back under our possession.
De Rossi, you too can physically dominate so between you both we should be winning the physical battle in the centre of the park. Look to assist when required defensively with high pressure upon the Malaga midfield as soon as they have the ball. Once we have it back under control be disciplined, keep the ball below waist height. You are the engine of the Porto midfield, make it purr like a Italian Supercar.

RW: Hulk – On the side is the beast, the Incredible Hulk. Use your power and strength to keep the pressure on the fullback, force him into errors whenever he has possession of the ball. Always be on the look out for simple passes past the full back and use your explosive pace to be there before the defender. Drag him out of position to allow VDW to maximise the space left. If Malaga do advance forward down the wing ensure that VDW isn't isolated. When Bale has the ball on the other wing look to come into the box and assist Falcao.

LW: Bale – Use your speed to the advantage today and be ready to explode past the FB to latch onto balls threaded through when space has been created. If you have the ball and are going down the wing work with Pereira with one touch football to beat your man. Apply pressure on the fullback immediately if they gain possession and look immediately to put them on the back foot once more, if needed assist Pereirra with defensive duties if he is being targeted. Gaps will emerge and ensure that they are taken full advantage of.

AM - Pastore One touch & move, work with De Rossi and the wingers in unlocking the probably stubborn Malaga back line. Be intelligent with the ball, don't become impatient if a wall is in front of you and move the ball about drawing the players out waiting for a gap to emerge and then exploit it.

ST: Falcao I want you to be constantly on the move, pulling the centre backs out of position, be smart and move into space constantly. Don't be afraid to drag the centre backs into midfield as this will allow Pastore, Bale and Hulk to exploit it.

This is Porto, this is football!

Subs: Alves
Topal
Gibbs
Rodriguez
Reus
Koki
Gerrard


If losing: 70m take off Fellaini & Hulk and bring on Reus & Gerrard, go 4-5-1 (attacking) and use these fresh legs and added goal threat to bombard the Malaga goal.
If winning: 80m take off Pastore for Gerrard in a 4-1-4-1 formation, look to contain the ball in front of this wall and force Malaga to get more and more desperate before counterattacking with the wingers and Falcao at them at speed to kill them off.

Free kicks: Bale left side, Hulk right side,
Throw ins: Fellaini or Bale
Penalties: Falcao, Gerrard if he comes on

Fiorentina (vs. Atletico)

Injured:
Lorenzo De Silvestri
Ross Barkley
Jefferson Farfan

---

Sirigu
Ansaldi---Koscielny---Jagielka---Baines
Fernando---Wilshere
Cerci--------vd Vaart--------Vargas
van Persie

Subs: Neto, Grosso, Mbia, Samba, Draxler, Guarin, Cardozo

---

Start of a new season and a title to defend. Let’s get the show on the road with a performance of passing and movement, flair in attack and solidity in defence. We will keep our patient passing game, retaining possession and waiting for gaps. When the gap appears, we will spring into attack with pace and power. Defence as always starts from the front. As soon as we lose possession, the press the opposition and force the mistake regaining possession.

Defensively, we see the main threat from Atletico will come from their two wingers and in particular their attacking midfielder who will be the focus of their attacks. Therefore, we will look to take Eriksen out of the game, which should stifle the supply going wide and forward. We also have helped the full backs out by selecting two widemen who will work hard and track back to help out.

Offensively, we will vary the attack. We expect them to play two more defensive central midfielders, so VDV will have to keep moving to find space, particularly going wide and taking the DMs with him. The wide men will be the key to our attack as we see them as being up against two new FBs.

---

Sirigu – Command you box and come for crosses. Control the defence in front of you, organising them. Remain alert for balls in behind, where you can sweep up.

Ansaldi & Baines – First and foremost I want you to pick up the two wingers. Keep them on the outside and facing towards the corners rather than the goal forcing them to supply from wider positions than they are comfortable. Ansaldi – The winger will look to cut inside, so force him outside of you and away from goal, where he will be less comfortable. If he cuts inside, the DM will be helping to plug that gap. Baines – again keep the winger outside. He is quick, but cannot cross so don’t give him any space to run into, keep him out wide and his distribution will be less effective. Both, get forward and support your wingers, overlapping and getting in crosses.

Koscielny & Jagielka – We expect Atletico to play a lone striker, who is a smaller, quicker style of player. Koscielny will pick him up with his extra pace. Jags will play as the spare man, sweeping up loose balls and keeping an eye on any midfield runners. If Atletico play a second striker, then Jags will pick him up.

Fernando – you will play as the DM, sitting and breaking up opposition attacks and protecting the back four. You will provide the base and cover which will allow Wilshere to play a more expansive game. With support from Wilshere, you will stifle any creativity from the attacking midfielders and stop them getting the ball wide to the wingers.

Wilshere – you will play as box to box player. Get on the ball and supply the forwards. You be the starting point of our attacks, looking to feed our forwards. Feed them into feet. Also look to VDV playing in the AM role, in and around the box. Defensively, you must help Fernando out protecting the back four and picking up any central midfield runners.

VDV – you are going to be playing the AM/support striker role today. When the ball is central, you will look to get onto it. Look for van Persie making runs in behind and play him in. Also look to play the wingers in behind the defense. When the ball is with the wingers, get close to van Persie and feed off any knockdowns and loose balls.

Cerci& Vargas – get the ball and attack the full back. Use your full bag of tricks to beat the man and get the ball in the box. When the ball is on the opposing flank, get into the box. Defensively track back and help your FB out defensively. Vargas when you get a decent chance of a shot, have a go.

RVP – you are playing as the main focal point of our attacks today. Our wingers will look for you in the box, so look to time your runs, so that you are running onto the cross. VDV will be looking to get up and in support of you centrally.


Captain: Jagielka
Free kicks/corners: Vargas, Baines
Penalties: Baines

---

If losing or drawing on 65 minutes, Cerci, Koscielny off, Cardozo, Mbia on


Taller target man in the box, get balls into the box to Cardozo’s head.



If winning on 75 minutes VDV, Cerci, Koscielny off; Mbia, Draxler, Samba on


Solid DM in midfield and fresh legs at the back. Tricky winger to run with and keep hold of the ball.

A Madrid(home team) vs Fiorentina(away team)

-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
Gutierrez ----- Dominguez ----- Mertesacker ----- Isla
-------------------- A Pirlo --------- S Rolfes ------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------
A Lennon --------------- C Eriksen ----------------- A Turan
----------------------------- Adrian ------------------------------

Substitutions
Robles
Otamendi
Defour
Bender
Diego
Tiago
Schurrle

FK - TURAN
CK - TURAN
PK - ADRIAN
CAPTAIN - ROLFES

MATCH TACTICS
What a game to start the season. We are playing against the defending league and cup champions in Fiorentina. It will be a tough task but we are playing home at the Estadio Vicente Calderon which will give us a momentum advantage against Fiorentina. We will play the 4-5-1 formation and defend deep. The focus is to not let in an early goal and gradually play more attacking as the half goes on.

GK Howard - You are an experienced keeper so use that to your advantage. Use your height to catch all the aerial balls. Don't be afraid to come out of your area to gather any loose balls. All in all just be confident and you'll do well.

FULL BACKS - Jonas Gutierrez + M Isla - You 2 are the right back and left back and your main priorities will be to defend.
Fiorentina do not have any out and out wingers available as Farfan is injured so the pace of their attacks will be missed. But they still have dangerous players so Jonas and Isla will have to be aware. If we are in possession of the ball then our full backs will make attacking runs forward. I want both of you to pass and move. Let the opposition player come to you before passing the ball. If you are in an attacking position and there is no one in the box to cross the ball into then you pass the ball back to another free player. If you see an opportunity to shoot than don't be afraid as the old saying goes "If you don't shoot, you won't score"

CENTRE BACKS Dominguez + Mertesacker - Keep a flat back line. Use your aerial abilities to win headers. Stay compact and don't make unnecessary mistakes. They will prob play Van Persie up front so we will have to be extra vigilant against him. If we have an attacking set piece or corner than Mertesacker will go up to use his height to try and score a goal. Rolfes will be covering for him at centre back if Fiorentina try and initiate a quick counter attack.

DEFENSE MIDS Pirlo + Rolfes - Rolfes will stay back and help the defence while Pirlo will be the playmaker of the team. Rolfes will lookto sit in the hole between the defence and the midfield, intercepting moves, winning the ball and passing the ball to his more creative teammates. Your main priority will be to keep the Fiorentina attack mid, probably Van Der Vaart quiet. Close him down quickly and put a tackle in. Pirlo will be the main creative focal point in the centre of the pitch and play dangerous passes to the attackers. Pirlo will look to attack more and he will be allowed to shoot from distance if he sees an opening

WINGERS Lennon + Turan - Use your dribbling ability to take on the full backs. Put dangerous crosses into the box and also track back to help our full backs. Have a shot from distance if you see an opening. Come infield to create more goal scoring chances.

ATTACK MID Eriksen - The playmaker of the team. Use you great passing ability to create chances for your teammates. Shoot if you see some space. You have got great ball control and can also draw defenders towards you.

CENTRE FORWARD Adrian - Hold the ball up when alone up front. Quick pass and moves are your strengths so use them as much as you can. If you see an opening then shoot.

Substitutions

Subs if winning by 70mins

On 70 minutes Bender for Pirlo
Otamendi for Lennon
And change formation to a 5-4-1. Everybody will defend.
-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
Gutierrez -- Dominguez -- Mert -- Otamendi -- Isla
-------------------- Bender --------- S Rolfes ------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------- C Eriksen ----------------- A Turan-----
----------------------------- Adrian ------------------------------


Subs if losing by 60mins

Defour for Rolfes
Schurrle for Dominguez

And change formation to a 3-5-2. Play full attack. Overload Fiorentina box. If we lose possession while attacking then run back to your defensive positions to try and regain possession.

-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
------- Gutierrez -------- Mertesacker -------- Isla -------
-------------------- A Pirlo --------- Defour ------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------
A Lennon --------------- C Eriksen ----------------- A Turan
-------------------- Schurrle --------- Adrian ------------------

The INJURED players are
M pereira
Salvio

TOTTENHAM HOTSPURS vs lazio

INJ Oriol Casemiro

---------------------------Mandanda--------------------------
Naughton-------------Dunne---King------------De Celgie
------------------Moutinho---Jenas---Ganolons---------------
---------------------------Ganso---------------------------
-------------------Adebayor-----Doumbia-------------------
subs,Cudecini, Rienartz, Caulker, Coutinho, Piatti,Ibe,Anichebe

New season fresh start, many things have been said about us not being good enough, thats not true, u are the most talented bunch of lads anyone could have ever asked for, we will go out there and prove everyone wrong,
anyway today we play a very talented Lazio side who have the right mix of pace and power, and a manager who nearly always gets his tactic spot on so we'll have to be at the very top ofour game.

Mandanda
Out of the text book today do your job and well be fine, come out for crosses to quickly and a efficiently eliminate the danger, when receiving than ball throw it out to start a quick counter.

Naughton and De Celgie
right I believe you’ll have the most difficult task, that is why throughout this game i want you to stay in defence and only come in attack on rare occasions, i want you not to get to tight to them in case they flat out beat you so I want you to give ur self’s room to manurvre, i will be giving u lads support on containing the wingers so no need to worry relax and play your game.

Dunne and King
Two big strong defenders , dominate them in the strength department and dominate the air, if they do put speed up front always give yourself half and yard on the attacker to make sure he doesn’t get past you, if they play 2 up top then Led will take the strongest, if one up top then led will take him and Dunne will help wherever that is needed, wether that be helping led contain him or helping the full backs.
Ganolons
today i want a defensive role, that means no going forward, just sitting in front of the back fro and protect them, if they are playing an AM stay close to him and try and control him throughout the game, try and start attacks by distributing the ball to the more attacking players.

Moutinho and Jenas
Today you will be staring alongside jenas but play different roles, when we are attacking you will push forward and support ganso, use the height of Ade and the pace of Doumbia to your advantage, doumbia will be using his pace all day to try and exploit the opposition defence so loo to thread it through, give the ball to ade to hold up and move and get it back, also shoot from range if need be, when defending rush back and support jenas control the midfield, you 3 should stop anything materialising for them in the middle of the park, if our FB are getting over run move out wide to support them, this is a priority.

Ganso
, like Mouts and Jenas use the strikers to your advantage use the pace of Doumbia and the strength of Ade and like them two you have the license to shoot from range, if the two CMs move up then feel free to move out wide, mix up the play and when out wide try and use the height of Adebayor to your Advantage, be my magician out there, use your skills and trickery to confuse them same goes for you Mouts and Ganso, show us some sexy football .

Adebayor and Doumbia

You will be the traditional big man small man partnership, \Ade you will be strong and win ball in the air, try and physical dominate the CB and use your extra skill and guile to bring it down and create something, but also use your pace to get in behind, a very classy performance today so show me why i paid so much for you,Doumbia, god my son you are fast and use that, no CB in the world can keep up with you so make runs in behind put also use your pace and skill to knock it round them and go, again you have the license to shoot from rage and one of you come back and defend from corners , and one come back when they are attacking.

CAPTAIN-King

Pens-Ganso

FKs-Ganso

Corners-Ganso

Subs
If losing 75
Off jenas on piatti, switch to a 4-2-2-2 with couts and piatti going out wide
Off Mouts on Couts same as above
If winning 80 off doumbia- on rienartz
Switch to a 5-2-2-1 with ganso going along couts and jenas and mouts as DMs -

Fiorentina vs LAZIO

Formation - 4-4-2

-------------Marchetti
Corluka---Lugano---Heitinga---Caceres
Pepe-----Banega---Pizarro----Ben Arfa
----------Matri----Agbonlahor

GK - Marchetti
RB - Corluka
LB - Caceres
CB - Lugano
CB - Heitinga
RM - Pepe
LM - Ben Arfa
CM - Banega
CM - Pizarro
ST - Agbonlahor
ST – Matri

Subs: Lodeiro, Sissoko, Elm, Tomkins, Bizzarri, Del Nero, Frimpong.

Injuries: Diakite, Ledesma, Zarate

Defence starts from the front today, and every player is going to have to work hard for their team mates to get anything today – it isn’t impossible, and I think if we can work 90 full minutes we will have a positive outcome, at least in performance.

Our attack is mainly down the wings and via direct balls to Matri to knock down or flick on for Gabby to use his pace against the Fiorentina backline.

The defence and midfield will operate as two solid banks of four when we don’t have the ball, and when we do they will each have their individual roles to play (particularly Heitinga) so read on!

Marchetti – As always, command the backline, come for crosses and corners and make yourself big if one on one. Distribution wise, I want the ball aimed for Matri, and I don’t want any wasted kicks – everything has to be forwards and in bounds.

Corluka – I want to see you working hard today and staying with your man. It is likely to be Vargas, who has tricks up his sleeve. Give yourself space on him, and let him do his tricks in front of you – but eyes on the ball and don’t let him beat you on either side. Stay in front of him and frustrate him where you can. Send him backwards and try not to let him cross the ball in. When on the ball, move it forward to the midfield where you can, but don’t be afraid of getting it long to Matri or down the line to the winger if it is on for you. Take the riskless option at all times.

Caceres – Defensively, the same as Corluka, and they are likely to deploy Cerci on the right. Try and stand him up, don’t dive in, and keep him going nowhere, away from the goal. Don’t get too close and give him a chance to get away from you, take a yard and follow the ball. When on the ball, move it forward to the midfield where you can, but don’t be afraid of getting it long to Matri or down the line to the winger if it is on for you. Take the riskless option at all times.

Lugano – I want you on Van Persie today, and I want you to pick him up whenever he is in our final third and in shooting areas. He doesn’t have the pace to breeze past you, but he has the ability to jink away and take you out of the game and get a shot away, so I want you to give yourself a yard or so on him at all times and not commit yourself. Keep your eyes squarely on the ball and don’t follow his tricky feet or his body in case he dummies and feints away. Emphasis should be on shepherding him on to his right foot, and away from goal if you can.

Heitinga – If they come with a second striker - likely Cardozo - I want you to pick him up and contain him, getting your foot in to the ball and frustrating him when he is on it; don’t let him breathe.

If however, they do not go with a second striker, I want you to take a step up field in to defensive midfield when we are in possession so we match them for numbers in the middle, in a hybrid CB/DM role – you have experience in both. Be an outlet for the two midfielders in front of you, and the full backs and look to move the ball forward from your base position at the back. Shadow the most attacking midfielder when they have the ball and follow him on any breaks into the box. Sweep up any second balls, and if you can, bring it out and get it moving again.

Pizarro – I want you to be primarily defensive today, and to sit deep and let your partner do the running up field. Play the ball sensibly, but be direct when you get the chance to move it quickly up field. Matri is a big target so try to put it on his head for flick ons or knock downs, and the wingers will always be on hand to take the ball on and get at the full backs. You are in the team ahead of Momo purely on passing accuracy, so I want you to use it. In defence, press the ball without committing yourself; you want to push them backwards so don’t get beaten. Look for interceptions on any through balls, and be aware of the positioning of Van Persie. Get between him and the ball and cut the supply through the middle of the field and pick up interceptions.

Banega – Box to box for you today, so I want to see good energy from you, and I want you to want to take the ball forward. As with Pizarro, use possession sensibly and economically, and if there is a chance to move it quickly forward, do so. You can get forward, but any time you go for it, make sure you get back quickly into the midfield quartet and keep a solid bank of four for them to break down. As with Pizarro in defence, press the ball without committing yourself; you want to push them backwards so don’t get beaten.

Pepe – Back in the side, and with good reason. I want you to be as hard working as ever, and that means balancing risk and reward. Track with your full back if they are attacking and exploit the ball if they lose it. In attack, don’t go inside; the middle of the field is going to be congested, and I want you to get outside your FB, and to whip balls in to the strikers, especially Matri. Don’t be afraid to take your FB on, but if you do and lose possession, be prepared to run the length of the field to get at them – no freebies! Foul them if you have to.

Ben Arfa – I want the same out of you as I do from Pepe. Work hard and show this team you will fit in here. You have exceptional trickery and a great left foot, so take the FB on, beat him outside and get the cross in for your strikers. Chase back at all times and hold the line with the other midfielders. Don’t commit yourself, and slow attacks. If the full back gets past you, break your neck to get back at him – if we want a result we need everyone together, and you are a part of this team now.

Agbonlahor – Two goals from the wing last week was impressive, and I know nobody wants to handle your speed. I want you in the middle today, playing just off Matri, and working off the scraps he can provide you. Stay close to him, and wait for a knock down your way and be direct – run at them, scare them and get shots off. If the ball gets flicked on, I want you to open the taps and race on to it and do the same. Be prepared for the ball at all times, and take your chances to shoot. When the ball is on the wings, get in to the box and poach. Your partner will be the target, so be smart, position yourself for the second balls and feed off them.

Matri – I want you to use your size and heading ability today, and I want you to be the target man. The ball will be played to you from anywhere on the pitch, so take up a position and know exactly where Gabby is, and how best to spring him loose. When the ball is on the wing, get in to the box and try and get space - you will be the target, and we want you to get your head on it and put it in the net.

Both strikers are to work hard and not give the defence easy balls out. If they have it, go to them and look to at least hurry them up, and at best give us the ball back through error.

All set pieces (inc. pens) from Pizarro today. Aim for the big men when we get a chance to get it into the box.

Subs:

If winning

After 65mins: Ben Arfa to come off and be replaced by Lodeiro, who will fill the same role.

After 75mins: Sissoko and Frimpong on for Banega and Pizarro. Both have the instruction to sit, break up play and guard the lead.

If losing

After 65mins: Elm for Ben Arfa and Sissoko for Pizarro. Switch to a 4-5-1 with Gabby on the left wing, Pepe on the right. Elm and Banega will attack, and Sissoko will sit and facilitate.

Fiorentina v Lazio

Injured:
Andrea Seculin
Rafael van der Vaart
Adam Forshaw
Laurent Koscielny

---

Sirigu
De Silvestre--Mbia---Jagielka----Baines
Farfan----Fernando---Wilshere---Vargas
RVP------Cardozo

Subs: Neto, Ansaldi, Botia, Barkley, Guarin, Cerci, Vellios

---

Good start so far with 2 wins out of 2 and we look to keep that going this week at home to Lazio.

Defending - , we see the main threat from Lazio will come through the pace of Agbonlahor and the mobility of Matri up top. With Zarate injured, we are uncertain about the Lazio formation, so we have countered it by playing a back four with pace all across the back as well as on the flanks. With Ledesma injured, we do not see much creativity option in the middle and expect attacks down the flanks.

We will vary our attacks today. Wilshere will dictate play and keep the ball moving, varying the focus of the attack, sometime playing into RVP and Cardozo, other times feeding the wingers to run at the full backs.

---

Sirigu – Command you box and come for crosses. Control the defence in front of you, organising them. Remain alert for balls in behind, where you can sweep up.

De Silvestri & Baines – First and foremost I want you to pick up the two wingers. Keep them on the outside and facing towards the corners rather than the goal forcing them to supply from wider positions than they are comfortable. We expect the attacks down the flank today, so although you can get forward, always be aware of your defensive responsiblities

Mbia & Jagielka – Be on your toes today as Lazio have pace in attack, but so do you. Jags – if they play one up, probably Matri, you will pick him up. Don’t give him any space in the box. Mbia – you will pick up the second striker. If it’s Klose, stay tight and don’t give him a clean jump. If it’s Gabby, use your pace to stay with him and your strength to brush him off the ball.

Fernando – you will play as the DM, sitting and breaking up opposition attacks and protecting the back four. You will provide the base and cover which will allow Wilshere to play a more expansive game. With support from Wilshere, you will stifle any creativity from the central midfielders and stop them getting the ball wide to the wingers.

Wilshere – you will play as box to box player. Get on the ball and supply the forwards. You be the starting point of our attacks, looking to feed our forwards. Feed them into feet. Vary the attack, getting the ball into RVP and the wingers. Defensively, you must help Fernando out protecting the back four and picking up any central midfield runners.

Farfan& Vargas – get the ball and attack the full back. Farfan – you are probably up against Caceres, a right footed centre back playing at left back, who is prone to diving in. Commit him to the tackle and beat him on the outside. Vargas – you are probably up against Corluka today. You have a massive pace advantage, so beat him for pace and whip crosses in. If he starts to drop deeper, then cut inside and unleash your thunderbolt. Both - When the ball is on the opposing flank, get into the box. Defensively track back and help your FB out defensively. Vargas when you get a decent chance of a shot, have a go.

Cardozo & RVP – you are playing as a partnership today. Cardozo you are the box striker, roaming the 18 yard box and getting on the ball in the area. RVP – you have a freer role today. Try and feed off Cardozo knock downs, but on occasions drop a little deeper to collect the ball.


Captain: Jagielka
Free kicks/corners: Vargas, Baines
Penalties: Baines

---

If losing or drawing on 65 minutes, Cerci for Vargas, Barkley for Farfan


Fresh legs on the flanks, more of the same tactics.



If winning on 75 minutes Botia, Ansaldi on, Cardozo, De Silvestri off


Solid DM in midfield and fresh legs at the back.

Season 2

Week 2

MALAGA v Tottenham

Injuries:
Mateo Kovacic
Mouhamadou Dabo


Formation: 4-1-4-1:

--------------------------------------Tim Wiese--------------------------------------

Steven Taylor-----Christopher Samba------------Michael Dawson-----------Daniel Agger

----------------------------------------Gabi------------------------------------------

Eduardo Salvio--------Jack Rodwell---------------Miralem Pjanić----------Gaston Ramirez

-------------------------------------Lucas Barrios-------------------------------------

Subs: Carlos Kameni, José Manuel Catalá, Salomon Kalou, Darron Gibson, Nicklas Bendtner, Nicolas Anelka, Nélson Oliveira

Captain: Michael Dawson

Free Kicks: Pjanić.

Corners: Ramirez for corners on right/Salvio for corners on the left

Penalties: Barrios

Tactics:

Overview: Tottenham are an up and coming side, which have brought in some new players this week, which will unsettle their side. Coupled with this, these players are young and untested on the big stage. Malaga feels that they are at a vulnerable transition stage and can be got at in key areas. Their CDM is young and does not have experience around him, which means our creative players should have many opportunities to attack Tottenham’s defence. Their attacking players are new and untested, so our vastly experienced FB’s should have no problems subduing them. Their defence, the FB’s in particular, are suspect and they tend to play a very narrow formation. Malaga will get the ball wide, and attack these FB’s; drilling in crosses and creating shooting opportunities.

Wiese: Back into the side after his injury last week, the vastly experienced GK will give our CB’s extra confidence. I want you to be commanding in the box, and take cleanly any crosses that come in. Be alert for passes played through our defence, and come and collect them or boot them to row Z. Gabi will be there when you have the ball to release to. I just need a normal, calm and collected game from you.

Samba/Dawson: Two talented CB’s, with many matches under their belts. Tottenham will probably play 2 up front, so I need you to be wary. Don’t play a high line, as their main tactic will be to try and beat you for pace. If you position the back four just past the penalty area when defending, it gives Tottenham no chance to thread a past through and attack with speed. Be physical, stand your ground and don’t let the CF’s out muscle you. You are more than a match for anything Spurs throw at you.

Taylor/Agger: It is very important to have two defensively sound FB’s to tackle Tottenham’s wingers, and we have them with Taylor and Agger. Keep tight to them and push them to either side of the pitch. They will soon get frustrated and lose positioning. During the game, I expect them to try and come inside more and more, which makes their attack very narrow and plays into our hands. Try not to push up too high, as we want to stop any counter attacking thoughts Spurs may have. I have a lot of faith in the pair of you, and feel you are good enough to keep the wingers quiet all game.

Gabi: An experienced CDM to play in front of our defence. The main priority is to mark Tottenham’s AM, most probably Ganso. I want you to stick close to him all during the game, and never let him dictate the play. Without this outlet, I believe that Spurs’s two CF’s will be hopelessly isolated and without any service, allowing our CB’s to simply do their normal role to keep them subdued. Look to take the ball off Weise when he has it and patiently start our attacks from the back. Rodwell will be there to release, pushing him further up the pitch while you return to your defensive duties.

Rodwell: I am pushing you a little further up the pitch today, to use your high workrate and box-to-box skills to there fullest potential. I want you to get up and down the pitch at regular intervals. When without the ball, support Gabi in a CDM role. This will involve a free role, tracking back and watching for the wingers and any other players breaking forward. Then when we have the ball, Gabi will look to you to get the ball up the pitch. I want you to get the ball into the opponents half, before releasing our wingers. You can also pass the ball to Pjanic to create some added genius. Then, when we are attacking, just sit behind Pjanic so you are ready to pounce if we lose the ball, and can quickly regain it again. I need an energetic performance from you.

Pjanic: You will be our creative player. Look to run rings round the inexperienced Casmiro, and thread balls through the defence for Barrios to latch onto. If the way is barred, then get the ball out wide for our wingers. Hover around the penalty box, and feel free to shoot from range if a chance comes along. I want you to make life hell for the young CDM and the weak CB’s. Be intelligent and imaginative, and create chance after chance.

Salvio/Ramirez: Our two quick wingers will target one of Tottenham’s biggest weaknesses - a fragile fullback combination. I want you to take them on at every opportunity and beat them with pace and skill. Then it is up to you what you wish to do. You can either get to the by-line and get the cross in for Barrios. Or, you can come inside and get into the penalty area. I feel that the FB’s weakness may well lead them to giving rash fouls away, and maybe even penalties if trying desperately to get back. Get into the box and pepper the goal with shots regardless.

Barrios: With Dunne being injured, the Spurs CB’s are vulnerable. I want you to take advantage of this. King will be a starting CB, so when without the ball, stay on the shoulder of the other inexperienced CB. If King desperately wants to mark you, then he will have to come hopelessly out of position. When without the ball, come up towards the centre circle to draw the CB’s out. Then this gives our wingers space to exploit and leave the whole back four for dust with their speed. Then when we have the ball, head back down towards their goal. Get into the box when Ramirez or Salvio have it, to convert crosses and get on the end of rebounds from the shots they have. If Pjanic gets the ball, prowl on the edge of the penalty area – ready for the pass through the defence and the one-on-one that brings about.

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

If losing or drawing after 70 mins:

Kalou FOR Gabi

A change to a standard 4-4-2. Rodwell plays CDM now, restricting his forward runs. Kalou plays just behind Barrios as a second striker, using his pace to get behind the back four. He has a free role to also go to either flank and support Ramirez and Salvio. The aim is to get it wide again, and attack the FB’s, who will be tiring after being subjected to our wingers pace all game.

If winning after 75 mins:

Kalou FOR Salvio
Bendtner FOR Barrios

A change to 4-5-1. Rodwell and Gabi will play CDM with Pjanic in between and in front of them. Kalou now goes on the right for fresh legs. Bendtner goes in a CF role, to hold the ball up and let the clock tick down. Bendtner should look to get the ball to the fresh Kalou on the right, so he can subject the FB to yet another injection of pace. They will be trying desperately to get a goal, so Pjanic/Kalou/Ramirez can exploit the huge gulfs of space that will leave.

Atletico v Porto

Injuries (Reus & Gibbs)
Captain: Chiellini

Formation 4-2-3-1

Two games into the season and two decent wins, lets today make it a hat-trick of wins!
Last week Madrid were at home and played a deep defensive game to start. I want Porto to draw them forward to open up space in which our attacking force can then create chances. Use the speed of our wings as the main focus point of attack, have them coming inside to target the slow centre backs and provide Falcao with another brace.


GK: Reina – Be vocal to the backline, make them aware of exactly what you want them to do in regards to set pieces and pushing up. Don’t punch the ball unless absolutely necessary. Be on your toes for any shots from outside the box to test you. Look to come out early for crosses from the wings and then set the ball lose to our players forcing them back immediately.

RB: Van Der Weil – Probably up against Turan today. Pace wise he is slightly slower but once he has the ball he is skilled in dribbling so don’t allow him to turn inside. Look to keep him on the outside and slow him down into the corners blocking any balls through to Adrian. Stay on your feet. Once you have the ball go forward and link up play with midfield and Hulk with balls past the FB for him to run onto.

LB: Perreira – Up against the speed merchant in Lennon today, ensure you’re positioned so that you can intercept passes and close him down as he’s receiving the ball, if he’s running at you with pace then force him deep into the corner and block crosses into the box. In possession look to use the wing going forward combining with the speed of Bale. Use your size advantage to muscle him out of the game.

CBs: Chiellini & Godin – Expecting Adrian alone up front so if that’s the case Godin is to man mark as he can match him for pace and is excellent at nullifying attackers. Chiellini is to pick up the pieces if the striker escapes his marker but mainly to be used to plug gaps of their AM marauding forward and block passes/crosses into the box. If Madrid do play with two up front then look to cover a player each.

CMs: Fellaini & De Rossi – Fellaini is to play predominately in the defensive role today and to really physically impose himself in front of the back four upon the youngster Eriksen. Use your strength and size to physically dominate him early on, putting him off his game. When in possession spread the ball quickly out to the wings. If we have freekicks/corners get into their box and use your height. If they have fks/corners then mark Mertesacker.
De Rossi, I want box to box coverage today, you can physically dominate so between you and Fellaini we should be winning the physical battle in the centre of the park. Look to assist when required defensively with high pressure upon the Madrid midfield as soon as they have the ball, don’t let them settle and ensure we are winning every loose ball. If we have freekicks/corners then stay back looking for loose balls or counterattacks.
Once we have it back under control be disciplined, keep the ball below waist height and thread it through to a player in space especially Hulk as he will the main focus of attack. If you’re in space yourself don’t be afraid to run at the Madrid back line.

RW: Hulk – If based on last week’s match Madrid will be playing Isla in the left back role. This should be our main point of attack if this is the case tonight as the player is not naturally suited to the role, Isla is much more comfortable going forward and being based on the right side of the pitch so I want high pressure on him and look to run at him with the ball at your feet where you can strike the ball with venom. If Isla has the ball then pressure him immediately, look to win it back and commence attack again. Ensure that when needed you track back and assist VDW. Come into the box if Bale has possession of the ball on the other wing.

LW: Bale – Similar to Hulk you’re up against a player not ideally suited to a defensive position, use your speed to outwit the player and burst past him with a turn onto the outside then look to hit balls across the box onto Falcao’s head or Hulk coming in from the other side. Look to come into the box to assist Falcao if Hulk has possession. If required ensure you track back to provide assistance to Pereira in defence.

AM - Pastore Be intelligent today, expecting you to be crowded out in your position so you need to be smart in the limited space you have. If you get the ball to feet look to invite the tackle and go to ground in positions that could result in dangerous freekicks. Look for our wingers to be moving past their FB markers and get balls across to them or if Falcao has lost him marker then a ball over top for him to capitalize.

ST: Falcao Stay on the shoulder of Mertesacker, he has no pace to him so I want you to be the instinctive predator today. The wingers have both been instructed to get balls in the air across to you so look to lose your man and beat the offside trap and head down into the corners. If Hulk is running into the box then look to drag the centre backs away leaving space for him to shoot.

This is Porto, this is football!

Subs: Alves
Topal
Rodriguez
Henrique
Gerrard
Vertonghen
Bodmer


If losing: 70m take off Fellaini, Pastore & Hulk and bring on Henrique, Rodriguez & Gerrard, go 4-4-2 (attacking) and use these fresh legs and added goal threat to bombard the Madrid goal.
If winning: 80m take off Pastore for Gerrard in a 4-1-4-1 formation, look to contain the ball in front of this wall and force Madrid to get more and more desperate before counterattacking with the wingers and Falcao at them at speed to kill them off.

Free kicks: Bale left side, Hulk right side,
Throw ins: Fellaini or Bale
Penalties: Falcao, Gerrard if he comes on

A Madrid(home team) vs Porto(away team)

-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
M Pereira ----- Dominguez ----- Mertesacker ----- Isla
---------------------------- S Rolfes ----------------------------
-------------- C Eriksen -------------- A Turan ---------------
A Lennon -------------------------------------------- Schurrle
----------------------------- Adrian ------------------------------

Substitutions
Robles
Otamendi
Tiago
P Neville
M Rodriguez
Diego
Gutierrez

We are playing a 4-3-3 today because of injuries to our centre mids. I want everyone to pressurize the Porto players when they have the ball to force them into a mistake.

Captain = Rolfes
Freekicks and Corners = Turan
Penalties = Schurrle

GK Howard - You are an experienced keeper so use that to your advantage. Use your height to catch all the aerial balls. Don't be afraid to come out of your area to gather any loose balls. All in all just be confident and you'll do well.

FULL BACKS Maxi Pereira + M Isla - Main priority is to defend. Pereira will prob be up against Bale so I want him to stay close to him and don't give him space to run. Make him go onto his weaker right foot.
Isla will prob be up against "The Not so Incredible" Hulk. I want Isla to stop his from cutting in onto his stronger left foot and stand your ground against him. He is a pretty fast player but Isla is no slow poke either.

CENTRE BACKS Dominguez + Mertesacker - Keep a flat back line. Use your aerial abilities to win headers. Stay compact and don't make unnecessary mistakes. They will prob play Falcao up front so we will have to be extra vigilant against him. Dominguez will mark him and Mertesacker will cover if he gets past him. If Porto play 2 upfront then I want Mertesacker to mark their second striker. If we have an attacking set piece or corner than Mertesacker will go up to use his height to try and score a goal. Rolfes will be covering for him at centre back if Porto try and initiate a quick counter attack.

DEFENCE MID Rolfes - He will stay deep and cut out passes and make tackles to win back the ball. He will have to close down Pastore as fast as he can as one of Pastores main strengths are his dribbling ability. If we take their attack mid out the game then that is part of the plan successful.

CENTRE MIDS Turan + Eriksen - We have a lot of injuries in the centre of the park so we are gonna have to play these 2 players. They can play in the centre and im sure they won't disappoint. They both have good ball control and have an eye for making dangerous passes. I want Turan to play lofted balls over the Porto defence so that our strikers can play of the last defender. Eriksen will be allowed to play slightly more upfield and play one twos with his teammates so it will be hard for the Porto players to stop him. He will be given the freedom to shoot if he sees an opening. When we are not in possession of the ball I want Turan and Eriksen to help the defence and play deep.

WINGERS Lennon + Schurrle - Lennon will look to use his pace and dribbling skills to bamboozle the Porto left back, prob the attack minded Alvaro Pereira. Lennon is very dangerous on the counter attack and we will look to use him whenever we have to defend a set piece situation. Schurrle will look to cut in on to his stronger right foot and try and take on the Porto right back. I want both Lennon and Schurrle to get to the by line and cross the ball into the box for my attacking players to score from.

CENTRE FORWARD Adrian - Will look to play off of the shoulder of the Porto centre backs by timing his runs. If you are finding it difficult to break through their defense then interchange positions with Schurrle to confuse them. I want you to shoot if you see an opening.

Substitutions

Subs if winning by 70mins

On 70 minutes Tiago for Schurrle
Otamendi for Lennon
And change formation to a 5-4-1. Everybody will defend.
-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
Gutierrez -- Dominguez -- Mert -- Otamendi -- Isla
-------------------- Tiago --------- S Rolfes ------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------- C Eriksen ----------------- A Turan-----
----------------------------- Adrian ------------------------------


Subs if losing by 60mins

Diego for Rolfes
Schurrle for Dominguez

And change formation to a 3-5-2. Play full attack. Overload Fiorentina box. If we lose possession while attacking then run back to your defensive positions to try and regain possession.

-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
------- Gutierrez -------- Mertesacker -------- Isla -------
------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------ Diego -----------------------------
A Lennon --------------- C Eriksen ----------------- A Turan
-------------------- Schurrle --------- Adrian ------------------

The INJURED players are
Defour
Bender

Malaga vs SPURS
INJ,Anichebe,Dunne,Rienartz
------------------------Mandanda-----------------------
Naughton------Caulker-----King---------Oriol-----
------------------------Casemiro----------------------
Costa-----------------Ganso------------------Nene
------------Adebayor---------Doumbia-------------
Subs, Cudicini, De Ceglie, Piatti, Gonalons, Spearing, Ibe, HESKEY

Right lads not the start we where looking for but there are a lot of positives to take from it, out back for has been ravaged by injury but thats OK as we have a solid player in Cauker to fitin there, we haves some new lad here this week so make them at home. We play a tricky Malaga side today and we have to be on to[p form

Cpt King

Pens Ganso

FKs Ganso

Corners Costa

GK Mandanda
Again just the basic, do what ever it takes to keep the ball out the net, like last week try and every occasion to throw the ball out to keep the game flowing and immediately put the pressure on them.

FBs Naughton and oriol.
On the road today so i want a more defensive minded performance out of you, stay back most of the time and only attack on occasion. When faced one on one with an opposing winger try and force them out wide and isolate them, nothing rash and nothing risky, would rather concede a throw in to a FK or goal.

CBs King and Caulker
Caulker you may have just only been drafted into the team due to an injury Crisis, if they chose to play 1 up front king will take him and caulker will pick up loose ball or help king out in situations when needed, however if they go 2 up top then King will take the stronger forward and Caulker will take the other. All was look to jostle he striker and make him uncomfortable, when on the ball try and pass it to another player or if nothing is open aim for Adebayor up top. Want a solid display today and i know you 2 are up to it

DM Casemiro
Casemiro want you to sit in front of the back four and protect them, if they do come out with an AM /CM i want you to be on him, give him no time and no space, eliminate him from the game, when receiving it look to spread it to the wingers out wide or Ganso down the middle , also look for doumbia to be exploiting his pace in making run or look for the target of adebayor, you have so many options today, but stay defensive, i don’t want to concede as many as last week.

LM+RM Nene and Costa
Right today i want you to get down those wings and get it into a box, be confident and take players on, however if the opportunity arises then cut in and take on the CBs,always look for other options,when crossing aim for adebayor but doumbia also has a head on his shoulders so don’t worry if hes the only one up,look for Ganso centrally and make runs, inside or out, make life hell for the defence you two, test everyone, but you also have defensive duties too, always come back to help your FBs, ou number there wingers and render them useless.

CAM Ganso
Be the creator today Ganso, you will be receiving the ball from everywhere so keep your eyes open when on the ball look for the runs of the STs and also of the wingers out wide, be smart though, if nothing on go back or take it on yourself, get into advanced positions where you can be a nuisense, keep there DM/CBs Busy so teammates can get in behind them, then thread it though to them, w are playing a 5 pronged attack and with our quality should be enough to get goals, and Ganso you are the main man, but when they have the ball get back and help Casemiro secure teh midfield, in order to win we must contain them and keep them at bay.

ST adebayor and Doumbia
Today you will play different roles, Doumbia use you blistering pace to make runs down the centre or down the channels , it dosnt matter, also when on the ball take players on or when in range have a pop and test there keeper. Adebayor, we will be getting down he wings in order to float balls into you so be ready to this, use your strength to win long balls and flick it on to doumbia or back to Ganso, costa or nene. like doumbia also make runs but this isnot your main aspect today, being a target man is, and like doumbia also have shots from range test there GK see what there defence is really made of.

Subs

S1)if winning 75 off doumbia on Gonalons

Switch to a 4-2-3-1

S2)Losing 80 mins off casemiro On HESKEY

Switch to a 4-3-1-2

Ganso going CM and Heskey as a CF with D+A as ST

S3)Any score 85 (expect S2)

Off Adebayor On Heskey,

Direct Switch

Week 3

MALAGA v Athletico

Injuries:
Gabi
Gibson
Rodwell

Captain: Dawson

Formation: 5-3-2

---------------------------Weiss-----------------------
Dabo------Alderweireld----Dawson-----Agger------Catala
-------------Salvio---------Pjanic-----Ramirez----------
-------------------Kalou----------Barrios--------------

Subs: Kameni, Taylor, Samba, Kovacic, Bendtner, Anelka, Oliveira

Tactics:

Overview: Injuries have denied us our CDM’s so we are going five at the back to cover this. We are hoping that Athletico’s lack of solid defensive players, will enable us to get our first victory.

Weiss: Quick distribution to the wings please. Catala and Dabo will try and get forward, so we want the ball heading for either touchline – either from out the hand or from the boot.

Alderweireld/Dawson/Agger: Three strong CB’s. I have put Alderweireld and Agger on the right and left of the CB three to provide cover when Catala and Dabo go forward. Zonal marking when defending, keeping close eyes on AM’s breaking from midfield. The CF’s may try and beat you for pace, but Agger and Alderweireld have the speed to cover this. When with the ball, distribute it to our FB’s or to Pjanic ahead of you.

Dabo/Catala: You will be doing a lot of work in this match, but you have Salvio and Ramirez to give you support on the flanks. Look to release them and then go outside of them if needed. Track back when we don’t have the ball, and stop the opponent’s wingers getting crosses in. If they want to come inside, then let them rather than doing anything rash. Our 3 CB’s will cover that.

Salvio/Ramirez: Although in a midfield three, I want you to head to your flank, to support the FB’s and to attack the opponents FB’s. Cut inside whenever possible, and only pass for the overlap if no option is there. Kalou will be prowling in a free role, so pass ahead of him to use his pace against a slow Athletico CB’s. Feel free to shoot from range – you have the skill to hit the target.

Pjanic: I want you to sit back and dictate the play. Look for the ball off of our 3 CB’s and kick start our attacks. Get the ball from deep, pass it to the flanks, and head up to the opponents go to support our strikers. Repeat throughout the match.

Kalou: You have a free role alongside Barrios. Look to head towards both sides and confuse the FB who will have to watch out for Ramirez/Salvio as well as our FB’s. I want you to beat the CB pairing with your speed when you are in the centre of the pitch. You are our biggest threat to the Athletico goal. They won’t be able to mark you, as they will be pulled out of position. Float around the final third and cause damage.

Barrios: Barrios is our main striker, and I want you again to sit on the shoulder of the CB and feed off the rebounds and crosses that come in. Don’t go looking for the ball yourself. I need you high up the pitch and ready to convert anything that comes your way. This means you may be out of the game for long periods, however I trust your predatory instincts to take any chances that appear.

If losing or drawing after 70 mins

Kovacic FOR Catala.

Go 4-4-2:

---------------------Weiss--------------------
Dabo------Alderweireld----Dawson------Agger
Salvio---------Pjanic-----Kovacic-------Ramirez
--------------Kalou----------Barrios---------

A lot of creativity in the midfield now. Use this creativity to get the goal. We want the win, so no point holding for a draw.

Porto vs LAZIO

Season 2, Gameweek 3

GK: Federico Marchetti
CB: Martin Caceres
CB: Diego Lugano
CB: Johnny Heitinga
RWB: Vedran Corluka
LWB: Andre Santos
CM: Momo Sissoko
CM: Cristian Ledesma
AM: Hatem Ben Arfa
ST: Mauro Zarate
ST: Gabriel Agbonlahor

Subs: Bizarri, Tomkins, Frimpong, Matri, Pepe, Lodeiro, Brocchi

Injuries: Diakite, Banega and Emmanuel

--------------------Marchetti
----------Heitinga---Lugano---Caceres
Corluka--------------------------------Andre Santos
--------------Sissoko------Ledesma
--------------------Ben Arfa
------------Zarate---------Agbonlahor

Porto are very strong all over the park, and a very tough side to match up against one v one.

I’ve changed it up this week based on that fact, and have deployed 3 CB’s and wing backs in an effort to halt Hulk and Bale on the wing, and Falcao in the middle, by sheer weight of quality defensive players.

On the ball we will look to play good football with a sensible passing game, width being provided by our WB’s and with creative sparks coming from Ben Arfa and Zarate.

Marchetti - As always, command the backline, come for crosses and corners and make yourself big if one on one. Distribution wise, roll out to the CB’s and WB’s where possible and let them begin moves from the back. Don’t force passes though, hit it clear if there is no alternative.

Heitinga – Stay the right side of our back three, and look to assist Corluka with the likely threat of Bale. If Corluka isn’t back in position, jockey Bale and wait for him to make it back downfield to assist. If Corluka gets beaten, don’t dive in, try and get him on to his right foot and make him pass it away.

Caceres – Stay on the left side of out back three, and look to assist Andre Santos with what I expect will be Hulk. He’s a left footer so if he starts on the right you can expect him to cut inside – do not let him, his shots are deadly, so keep him outside and let him spoon crosses or try and take you both on. If Santos isn’t back in position, jockey the winger and wait for him to make it back downfield to assist you.

Lugano – Falcao should be through the middle, so keep with him at all times and give yourself a yard on him. If he tries to take you on, hold him up and him in front of you at all times. Be physical with him on set pieces and if he backs in and make sure he knows you’re breathing down his neck. Aerially he is very good, so mark tightly if a cross comes in and get a good jump to beat him to it.

All CB’s – if Porto come with a change in formation and two up top, Lugano and Caceres are to mark them, and Heitinga will sweep, and bring the ball out from the back.

Corluka – You’ve a big role today, and I want you to be providing width to support the attacks where you can; however, don’t venture in to the final third, at this point you should pass to Zarate who will peel off to the right in front of you, or get an early ball in to the box. In defence, stick to their left winger, jockey him and keep him on his weak side. Heitinga will be there with you, so communicate and shut him out.

Santos – Same as Corluka on the right, I want you to be providing width to support the attacks where you can; however, don’t venture in to the final third, at this point you should look for Ben Arfa who will peel off to the left in front of you, or will be central looking for the ball. Alternatively get an early ball in to the box, or hell, you’re Brazilian, whack it at goal with your left and test Reina. In defence, stick to their right winger, jockey him and keep him on his weak side. Caceres will be there with you, so communicate and shut him out.

Sissoko – I want you to stick with Pastore who we expect to line up at AM. That is the entirety of your role today, and I want you to tire him out, make him run to find space and frustrate him when he gets the ball. I won’t be angry if you give him a little kick here and there either, keep him off balance and out of rhythm. On the ball, short passes out to the WB’s Ledesma or Ben Arfa, take the sensible route always.

Ledesma – Keep the play ticking in the midfield, short passes to those in space, and look for your wing backs overlapping. I expect Porto will have a box to box midfielder, so keep an eye on him breaking forward and halt his progress where you can by slowing the attack.

Ben Arfa – Start centrally today from AM, and create. Look to drift out left when you see there is the space and keep things unpredictable. Agbonlahor will be on the shoulder testing the CBs pace, so slip through balls in if they are on. Don’t be shy of taking them on either, and if you can beat a man and whip a shot in. If there is nothing on, don’t force it, play it to a teammate and reset.

Zarate – You too start centrally, and play as a second striker. Drift right if there is space and look to take men on, get shots off, or slip Gabby in. As I said to Hatem, keep possesion at all costs and reset the play – don’t panic and waste it. If the ball is on the left, get to the far post and seek to snatch any crosses that come in or be on the end of a through ball.

Agbonlahor – Very simple remit today for Gabby, get on the shoulder and make them work to catch you. The ball will be on the floor and if you can get in behind, burn them with pace and take your chances. If you find yourself with your back to goal, Ben Arfa and Zarate will be either side supporting, so lay it off and spin out towards goal to drag a man away.

Free kicks, Pens, Corners and drop balls all from Ledesma.

Subs if winning:

75mins: Frimpong for Ledesma. Frimpong to get in their faces, sit and defend and if he can, get a Frimponging in.

75mins: Matri for Agbonlahor. Matri to be a target man and hold the ball up where he can.

75mins: Lodeiro for Ben Arfa. Lodeiro to sit in CM and keep the ball moving to feet, and towards Matri.

If losing:

70mins: Matri for Zarate and go for a more direct attacking style. WB’s to get the ball in the box and Gabby to play off Matri.

If still behind:

80mins: Pepe for Santos. Flat back four with Caceres at LB, and have Pepe RW, Ben Arfa LW behind front two. Balls in the box and plenty of direct running.

Lazio v Porto

Formation 4-4-2

Reina
Van Der Wiel ---Chiellini---Godin----Pereira
Reus------De Rossi-----Gerrard------Bale
Hulk-----Falcao

Fantastic result last week guys, but that’s in the past and I certainly do not want you thinking today will be a walk in the park. I want high concentration and motivation levels today. I don’t want anyone going into this game thinking all you have to do is turn up for the 3 points as our opponents Lazio can certainly capitalise on any weakness.
We’ve changed to a 4-4-2 formation to really use the wings of the pitch to our advantage, I want the wingbacks to get forward when available and to target their fullbacks so that going forward we can quickly turn into a 4-2-4 formation as the wingers pincer into the box, Hulk is to go into a predominately more central position and to look to really pressurize the off form Lugano.


GK: Reina – Be wary of the threat the two potential forwards possess. Look to be on your toes for the speed of Agbonlahor, make yourself big in the goal if at any point he gets clear on goal. Don’t look to punch the ball unless absolutely necessary and instead get both hands onto it securely. Look to spread the ball out with your hands to someone in space rather than boot it upfield. Command the box, the back four are settled in front of you and all know their roles, ensure they know exactly what you want in regards to positioning on set pieces.

RB: Pereira – Look to put pressure immediately on the winger (if it’s Pepe), don’t allow them time to settle on the ball or get up speed, if your opponent is running at you with the ball then stay on your feet and push them onto the outside ensuring you get your body between a cross and the box. When in possession look to work the wing with Bale, link up with him and look to beat their fullback with your combined pace. If VDW is going forward on the other wing then ensure you stay back.

LB: VDW – Similar to Pereira, close down any threat early on, simple balls into touch. Push any threat wide and block any balls into the box. Look to get forward when possible and combine with Reus against their fullback. If Pereira has pushed forward then stay back.

CBs: Chiellini & Godin – Godin is to man mark Agbonlahor if he plays (or the fastest forward), be aware of his positioning at all times and ensure you block any through balls to him that the other striker or AM may try and link through. Out muscle the player and ensure he doesn’t get behind you, hold the player up to allow your partner to double up on him. Chiellini, look to halt the threat of the other striker or a marauding AM. If they play one up front then work with Godin to crowd out any threat. Us your physical strength to keep any threat from getting goal side and be sensible with the ball when in possession. Be vocal with the backline, you’re the captain, instruct them.

CMs: De Rossi & Gerrard – De Rossi is to play the more reserved of the roles but has the remit to go box to box if on the ball, if that’s the case Gerrard is to hold back. Be strong in your tackles and enforce the centre of the pitch, be disciplined with the ball and look for the wingers going into space and place clinical balls for them to run onto. Stevie G is to play a more forward role, apply pressure to their most defensive midfielder whenever he has the ball and look to win it back deep into their half to immediately put them back under pressure, look to combine on the wing with Bale as you both are comfortable swapping positions. Neither of you should be afraid to pick up the ball at run forward with the ball but ensure you keep your head up looking for options and that you immediately get back to provide cover if possession is lost. On our corners both look to stay back and pick up loose balls to keep the pressure on.

LW: Bale, big responsibility on your shoulders today as I’m looking at you to break down the resistance of the Lazio defence. Your speed is key today and I want you to cover the left-side of the pitch with boundless energy. Work with the teammates around you, Pereira will be looking to come forward when in possession so use this to your advantage against the full back. Alternatively Gerrard can move outside, if that’s the case bring the ball inside run at the centrebacks, look to force the defenders into going into tackles to win free kicks in precarious positions. If Reus has the ball on the other wing then come into the box at speed towards the far post. Look to target Falcao’s head with inswinging crosses or Reus & Hulk trying to get space. If Lazio have the ball ensure that Pereira isn’t double teamed. Don’t be afraid to crack a shot from distance if you’ve come inside.

RW: Reus, I want darting and incisive runs from you today, combine down the wing with VDW with one touch play to thwart the fullback and force him to commit opening up space behind him to get into the box. Similar to Bale I want you to go looking for mistimed tackles in positions where a freekick can threaten. If the ball is moving forward on the opposite wing with Bale, Pereira or Gerrard then look to come inside and swamp the box with Hulk and Falcao. Remember your defensive duties when required and assist VDW when Lazio put us on the backfoot.

ST: Hulk, playing as the second striker today but given free rein to come deeper or onto the wing to provide pressure on areas we’re targeting. When you have the ball keep your head up and use your low centre of gravity and burst of speed and power to bulldoze gaps in their defence, if there’s space hit a shot early at goal as Falcao will be looking to pounce on any loose ball and the ball could end up anywhere in the melee. If Lazio have the ball come back a little deeper and provide assistance to winning the ball back.

ST: Falcao, look to target Lugano as the weak link today and hang on his shoulder. As the target man you should have more assistance up front from Hulk today so look to use him with balls knocked down to him running at speed. If either of the wings are coming into the box then look to drag your marker out of position to create space. Keep high pressure up on the Lazio defence when they have possession, a loose ball across the back line and you need to be ready to strike.

Subs: Alves
Topal
Gibbs
Henrique
Pastore
Elm
Fellaini


If losing: 70m take off Gerrard & Godin and bring on Pastore & Henrique, go 3-4-3 and use these fresh legs and added goal threat to bombard the Lazio goal.
If winning: 80m take off Hulk & Gerrard for Pastore and Fellaini in a 4-1-4-1 formation, look to contain the ball in front of this wall and force Lazio to get more and more desperate before counterattacking with the wingers and Falcao at them at speed to kill them off.

Free kicks: Bale left side, Reus right side,
Throw ins: Reus or Bale
Penalties: Gerrard

SPURS Vs Fiorentina

Inj

Ibe, Giocherrini, Caulker

--------------------Mandanda-------------------

Naughton----Dunne------King----------Orio

---------------------Casemiro-----------------

Costa--------------Ganso--------------Nene

----------------Adebayor-Heskey---------

Subs Cudicini, Rienartz De Celgie , Piatti, Diarra, Thomas, Doumbia

Right today we face a very good and talented fiorentina tea, we are playing a direct yet creative style so i hope it works, heskeys first start so lets make him involved and play to his strengths.

Gk Mandanda,same as alway keep the ball out the net nothing over dramatic, basics, come out for crosses and throw it out, get counter attacks going

FBs Naughton and Oriol.
Right your jobs is to stop the opposition wingers, and stiflethe service to there star striker.push them out wide and isolate them, and make players come to them, dragging them out of position and giving us a advance, but don’t go in to much and leave your self vulrable, always give yourself space to move if they try an knock it past you, only attack sparing ly and when attacking get down the wings and get it into Emile and Ade tonod it home, or play the wingers down the wing.

CBs King and Dunne,
Today you two have the biggest job, mark RVP, if they are playing two up front ledly take RVP but Dunne look reday to support him if need be, if one crowd him out do not give him anything, be tough be firm,if tackling aim for the kness with your studs,take that man out of the game! When on the ball, gve it out to casemiro or aim for emile and ade.

DM Casemiro,
Again a defensive role, sit in front of the back four and protect them, if the play an Am he is your man, be on him all the time, you pack a hard tackle, bully him be physical make him wish he never played,but you will also go further back and help the CBs deal with the ST/s crowd the out and most importantly win the ball and spread it.like the CBs aim for our airl powerhouses up front, but also spread it to our creative wingers and let them create something

CAM Ganso,
You are the creator, the magician,no A GOD! When on the ball use your skill and flair to beat a man aor spread it toeitehr our STs or wingers, create my son, have a shot if nessacary, our wingers will be our main attacking force so try and pass it or even dribble it out wide in order to cross it into our big men in the centre.

Wingers costa and Nene.
You are the main threat today, you are both skillfull and creativeness to get down the wings,take on your FB if need be or pass it to Ganso to further the attack. Main aim to to get balls into the box to utilise our big men. But also mix it up,try and cut inide to trouble there CBs and open up space for other teammates, shot croos pass, be comfortable and relaxed, go out here and play your game.

Sts Adebayor and Heskey
Right this game we will be utiling your strength and hirght, thre will be ball being crossed into the box all game and your aim to to get on the end of them, all game be shysical with the cBs, push them around and make them scared, if we win the arial battles we stand a great chace of winning, and you too are easily cable, also there will also be a lot of long ball us your strength height and skill to holdthe ball up for either the wingers for Ganso, but don’t be afraid to shoot, your strikers for a reason. We are ramming it up there throat today and you two are leading the line

Subs
If losing 70 off heskey on doumbia
Straight swap,inject some pace into our attack

If winning 75 off Heskey on Rienartz, off Ganso on diarra
swith to a 5-2-2-1

any 89 ins, off adebayor on Wesley Thomas straight switch

Malaga(home team) vs A MADRID(away team)

-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
M Pereira ----- Dominguez ----- Mertesacker ----- Isla
---------------------------- S Rolfes ----------------------------
-------------- C Eriksen -------------- Diego ---------------
A Lennon -------------------------------------------- Turan
----------------------------- Adrian ------------------------------

Substitutions
Robles
Gamberini
Tiago
P Neville
S Defour
M Rodriguez
Schurrle


Playing against Malaga this week and we are feeling confident picking up our first points of the season after playing the first 2 matches against title favourites Porto and Fiorentina we are playing someone a bit more our level in Malaga. I want us to carry on with the 4-3-3 that we played last week as I feel we can exploit Malaga's weak fullbacks using the pace of Lennon and the dribbling ability of Turan.

Captain = Rolfes
Freekicks and Corners = Turan
Penalties = Adrian

GK Howard - You are an experienced keeper so use that to your advantage. Use your height to catch all the aerial balls. Don't be afraid to come out of your area to gather any loose balls. All in all just be confident and you'll do well.

FULL BACKS Maxi Pereira + M Isla - Main priority is to defend. When one of you is attacking then I want the other to stay back. Play crosses into the box and make overlapping runs using our wingers.

CENTRE BACKS Dominguez + Mertesacker - Keep a flat back line. Use your aerial abilities to win headers. Stay compact and don't make unnecessary mistakes. Dominguez will mark their main striker if Malaga play one up front and Mertesacker will mark the second striker if he plays. Rolfes will be covering for him at centre back if Malaga try and initiate a quick counter attack.

DEFENCE MID Rolfes - He will stay deep and cut out passes and make tackles to win back the ball. He will have to close down their attack mid if they play one otherwise just stay deep and know your role.

CENTRE MIDS Diego + Eriksen - They both have good ball control and have an eye for making dangerous passes. I want Diego to play lofted balls over the Malaga defence so that our strikers can play of the last defender. Eriksen will be allowed to play slightly more upfield and play one twos with his teammates so it will be hard for the Malaga players to stop him. He will be given the freedom to shoot if he sees an opening. When we are not in possession of the ball I want Diego and Eriksen to help the defence and play deep.

WINGERS Lennon + Turan - Lennon will look to use his pace and dribbling skills to bamboozle the Malaga left back. Lennon is very dangerous on the counter attack and we will look to use him whenever we have to defend a set piece situation. Turan will look to try and take on the Malaga right back. I want both Lennon and Turan to get to the by line and cross the ball into the box for my attacking players to score from.

CENTRE FORWARD Adrian - Will look to play off of the shoulder of the Malaga centre backs by timing his runs. I want you to shoot if you see an opening.

Substitutions

Subs if winning by 70mins

On 70 minutes Tiago for Turan
Gamberini for Lennon
And change formation to a 5-4-1. Everybody will defend.
-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
Pereira -- Dominguez -- Mert -- Gamberini -- Isla
-------------------- Tiago --------- S Rolfes ------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------- C Eriksen ----------------- Diego -----
----------------------------- Adrian ------------------------------


Subs if losing by 60mins

M Rodriguez for Rolfes
Schurrle for Dominguez

And change formation to a 3-5-2. Play full attack. Overload Fiorentina box. If we lose possession while attacking then run back to your defensive positions to try and regain possession.

-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
------- Pereira ------- Mertesacker ------- Isla -------
------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------- Diego ----------- Rodriguez -------------
A Lennon --------------- C Eriksen ----------------- A Turan
-------------------- Schurrle --------- Adrian ------------------

The INJURED players are
Gutierez
Otamendi

Week 4

Lazio v MALAGA

Injuries:
Vicente Guaita
Gaston Ramirez
Oscar Cardozo
Adam Forshaw

Captain: Dawson

Formation: 4-5-1

--------------------------------Weise----------------------------
Alderweirweld---------Dawson----------Samba---------------Agger
Salvio-----------Kovacic---------Gabi--------Pjanic----------Kalou
-------------------------------Bendtner---------------------------

Subs: Dabo, Catala, Taylor, Anelka, Barrios, Oliveira

Overview: With a good victory in the cup, we play Lazio in the league. Two of their key players are injured, Gabriel Agbonlahor and Simone Pepe, and this will restrict their attacking strength and width. Therefore, I believe most of the play will be in the middle of the park. For this reason, I have included two very creative midfielders. Our plan is to be compact in the middle, but to play out wide and get crosses in. Using the height of Bendtner, and the lack of height in the Lazio CB pairing.

Alderweirweld/Agger/Dawson/Samba: A compact defense, not geared for attack. I doubt Lazio will try and attack the fullbacks with Pepe not playing, so balls will be coming through the middle. Agger and Alderweirweld to stick close to Dawson and Samba. Samba to man-mark their forward if going one-up front (which I think they will). Zonal marking from all four of your otherwise. There will be few attempts to get round our FB's, but keep a close eye none-the-less. Release the ball to Pjanic and Kovacic to kick start our attacks. Attack wise, I want Dawson and Samba to go forward for corners and attack Lazio's lack of height - a key disadvantage in their defense!

Gabi: I want you to man-mark the AM, probably Ben-Arfa, and totally take him out of the game. Then with the ball, get it to Kovacic or Pjanic. Shadow Kovacic when we have the ball, to offer a quick outlet for the young midfielder. This will allow him to gain confidence, knowing you are there to support him.

Pjanic/Kovacic: Create......I need you to play balls ahead of you, into the gaps between the Lazio FB and CB, for Kalou and Salvio to latch onto. Free free to run at the Lazio defense as well. I want them to come towards you, just before you lay it off for our wingers.

Salvio/Kalou: Our midfield will be laying on balls for you on a plate, so be pacy and beat the full back for speed. Then come inside and shoot or cross the ball high for Bendtner. He is in the side for his height, and I think that will prove a vital point when it comes to getting goals. When defending, pair up alongside Kovacic/Pjanic to form a 5-man wall, which will be difficult for Lazio to play through the middle. Then you can be ready for balls laid off for you to run at. Bendtner will also be using his size and strength to lay the ball off. I need speed and control from the pair of you.

Bendtner: In the side for Barrios, simply to use your height and heading ability. Get in the box for crosses, and lay it off for our 5-man midfield to attack. Hold the ball up, and get it wide. I need you to outmuscle the CB if being man-marked, something that Barrios would struggle to do. Prove you deserve to be in the side.

Formation change after 45 (Half Time) mins:

-------------------------------Weise----------------------------
Dabo----------------Dawson----------Samba---------------Catala
Salvio-------------------Gabi--------Pjanic------------------Kalou
----------------------Barrios----------Bendtner-------------------

Barrios FOR Kovacic
Dabo FOR Alderweirweld
Catala FOR Agger

Regardless of the current score, Kovacic will be tired after playing the mid-week game. Pjanic is fresh, after not playing it, so he can stay on the field. Barrios didn't play in mid-week so he can replace Kovacic to give added firepower. I am hoping this formation change will totally throw the sneaky Lazio manager, whilst adding fresh legs.

Dawson/Samba: Stay back for our corners now and concentrate on defense. Same tactics as previously.

Dabo/Catala: Defensively strong FB's, but I also want you to get forward now on the overlap. You can give me 45mins of running up and down the field - you are fresh so make it count.

Salvio/Kalou: Dabo will now be helping Salvio's workload, while Kalou (who didn't play in midweek) is still as fresh as a daisy. Catala will be on hand to help you though. Same tactics as before.....run at the full backs, then either get on the inside and shoot, get crosses in or look for the fullbacks on the overlap.

Gabi/Pjanic: Sit back a bit now, and dictate play from a distance. All the play will be going either side of you attack wise, so look either side for an outlet. Then hold back in case of a counter attack.

Barrios/Bendtner: Work in tandem with each other: Bendtner to lay it off, for the more speedy Barrios. We know both of you are prolific in the box, when crosses come in in-the-air or on the floor......I want the same again today. Balls will be coming from the left and the right, so get onto them and convert the chances.

Porto v Fiorentina

Injured:
Fernando Reges
Fredy Guarin
Julian Draxler (out on loan)
Oscar Cardozo (sold)

---

Sirigu
De Silvestre-Koscielny--Jagielka----Baines
Mbia-----Wilshere
Farfan------------VDV-----------Vargas
Van Persie

Subs: Neto, Ansaldi, Botia, Barkley, Rodwell, Cerci, Vellios

---

This team is fairly settled, with the team all having played regularly and comfortable in their positions. They all know each other well and know their jobs well, so we see a real team performance, which will be required today. It will be high energy and pacey.

Offensively, we are looking to exploit what we perceive as the Porto weaknesses. We believe that they will play without a natural DM, using De Rossi in that position instead, so we will try and exploit this space through VDV, and if VDV is being picked up tight, Vargas. We see the full back area as a target with both regular Porto FBs being more attack minded than defensive. We also see the Porto centre backs as susceptible to pace. Therefore, in the attacking third, we will be direct and run at the defence.

Defensively, we see the main Porto threat as coming from out wide. Falcao is injured today, so we expect Hulk to be pushed into a more central position, somewhere where hasn’t played regularly in FL or IRL. We also expect Reus to come in on the right hand side. Jag’s will mark the striker as we feel he has the pace and strength to cope with him well. We also see the pace of Bale as a big threat, so we have a pacey right hand side with Farfan and De Silvestre, and have also selected a quick right hand side CB in Koscielny, so if Bale beats one, he will still have two to deal with.

In all cases, where a named Porto player isn’t playing, we will pick up his replacement instead.

---

Sirigu – Command you box and come for crosses. Control the defence in front of you, organising them. Remain alert for balls in behind, where you can sweep up.

De Silvestri – your defensive role is very important today, picking up the main Porto threat. De Silvestri, you will likely be against Bale. Hit him early in the game and let him know you are there. Stay close and don’t let him get moving. When he gets the ball, you will be there in his face and not letting him move. Let him go outside as we feel we can cope with the crosses against Hulk today. If he cuts inside, Koscielny will be waiting.

Baines – you are likely to be up against Reus. He is direct, so stay tight and don’t let him run with the ball. When the opportunity arises, you can get forward and overlap Vargas, especially when Vargas tucks inside. Get earlier crosses in between CB and keeper for RVP to run onto.

Kos & Jagielka – Jags, you will pick up the main striker. Stay strong and don’t give him room. Kos, we expect you to be spare today. If they play a second striker, pick him up, but otherwise you will help out De Silvestri. If Bale cuts inside and beats De Silvestri, you will be there in the space and he will have nowhere to go.

Mbia – you will play as the DM, sitting and breaking up opposition attacks and protecting the back four. You will pick up the Porto AM. You are quick and strong, so bully him out of the game and don’t give him any space to create centrally. If one of the full backs goes forward, be aware and cover them.

Wilshere – you will play box to box. When we are attacking, get on the ball and dictate play. Feed in VDV and the wingers. Be aware of Porto playing tight to VDV and RVP. When VDV is tightly marked, look to Vargas coming inside or Baines overlapping. When RVP is tightly marked, he will draw the CBs deeper and spin in behind. Look to play balls in behind.
Defensively, help out Mbia in picking up the attacking midfielders, pressurise and do not give time on the ball.

Farfan – When in possession, get the ball and run at the LB. He likes to push on and play wide, so get the ball and run at his inside, forcing him onto his weak foot. Beat him and get low, hard balls across the area for RVP. Defensively, help De Silvestri out. You will be first line of defence on the right, so track back and fill the space on our right, blocking any supply out wide.

Vargas - When in possession, get the ball and run at the RB. He is happier going forward than defending, so get the ball, use some tricks and beat him for skill, get low, hard balls across the area for RVP. If VDV is being marked tightly, then he will try to take his market away. You should look to come inside into this space and unleash your thunderbolt shot. Defensively, track back and help out Baines, picking up the RB when he goes forward.

van Der Vaart – you will play as in a free role today. Get the ball, feed the wingers and strikers. In the attacking third get in and around the ball, when the ball goes wide, get just inside the area for poor clearances and knockdowns. Also run at the CBs today and try to force rash tackles and make more room for RVP. If you are being marked closely, try to take the marker away creating space in the middle. Defence starts from the front today, so when we are not in possession, pressurise the Porto players and win the ball back straight away

RVP – you are playing as the focal point of our attack. If the ball is with our wingers, crosses will come in low and between the CBs and keeper for you to be running onto. When it is central, play off the CBs shoulder and spin in behind. When we are not in possession, defence starts with you, harrying the Porto players and winning the ball back straight away.


Captain: Jagielka
Free kicks/corners: Vargas, Baines
Penalties: Baines

---

Any score on 60 minutes, Cerci and Barkley on, Farfan and Vargas off

Sirigu
De Silvestre-Koscielny--Jagielka----Baines
Mbia-----Wilshere
Barkley---------VDV-----------Cerci
Van Persie

Fresh legs outwide, more of the same



Anyscore on 70 minutes, Mbia off, Rodwell on.

Sirigu
De Silvestre-Koscielny--Jagielka----Baines
Rodwell---Wilshere
Barkley---------VDV-----------Cerci
Van Persie

More fresh legs in the middle

Porto v Fiorentina

Injuries (Falcao, Topal & Gibbs)
Captain: Chiellini



This is it. The big one. The El Classico of the Furious League.
Today is going to be a battle, between teams, between individuals.
I want each and every player to go out onto the pitch with hunger, with drive, with passion.
To want it more than them. Listen to our home fans roar as you walk onto that pitch and make them proud.
The last few weeks we’ve scored for fun, I expect chances to be harder to come by today so when we do get them to make the most. I want the midfield war to be won so have picked a three man central core that can all win the ball and are all comfortable with it. I want energy, every 2nd ball to be won, every 50/50 ball to be come under our control. Don’t let them settle, don’t let them get into their game. Niggle and chase them over every inch of the pitch.
The spine of the team is solid and whilst Fiorentina will be expecting the main threat to come down the flanks I want the wingers to instead drift inside (as Bale has shown recently in RL to be comfortable with) and run centrally at the Fiorentina centre backs, when this occurs Gerrard is to drop back creating a 4-3-2-1 formation. With Cardozo gone Fiorentina may well revert to sticking Farfan up front with RVP, if this is the case Fellaini is to play a deeper DM role and provide extra assistance to the back.


GK: Reina – Be vocal to the backline, make them aware of exactly what you want them to do in regards to set pieces and pushing up. Don’t punch the ball unless absolutely necessary. Be on your toes for any shots from outside the box to test you. Look to come out early for crosses from the wings and then set the ball lose to our players forcing them back immediately.

RB: Van Der Weil – Probably up against Vargas today. He’s a fast paced winger so ensure that you nullify his threat as the ball is played to him, cut off his channels and don’t allow him to gather pace. If he has picked up the ball deeper then stay on your feet and push him into the corners ensuring you block any crosses into the box. Keep it simple, nullify the threat and play the ball into touch if needed. Don’t look to go forward as much this week unless we are having periods of control and Fiorentina have dropped back. Look to hit balls past Baines for Reus to run onto.

LB: Pereira – Possibly up against the speed merchant in Farfan today, ensure you’re positioned so that you can intercept passes and close him down as he’s receiving the ball, if he’s running at you with pace then force him deep into the corner and block crosses into the box. In possession look to use the wing going forward combining with the speed of Bale. Use your size advantage over Farfan to muscle him out of the game early on putting him off his game.

CBs: Chiellini & Godin – Godin is to deal with Farfan if he plays in an central position be aware of his positioning at all times and ensure you block any through balls to him that RVP or VDV may try and link through. Out muscle the player and ensure he doesn’t get behind you. Chiellini is to halt the threat of RVP. Man mark him, don’t allow him any time or space on the ball and keep goal side of him. Be vocal with the backline, you’re the captain, instruct them. If they play with just RVP up front then Godin is to deal with any threats coming forward from the AM.

CMs: Fellaini & De Rossi –Use Fellaini’s strength and size to physically dominate VDV early on, putting him off his game. When in possession spread the ball quickly out to Bale or Reus. If we have freekicks/corners get into their box and use your height as Fiorentina are a small team.
De Rossi, I want box to box coverage today, you can physically dominate so between you and Fellaini we should be winning the physical battle in the centre of the park. If you’re up against Wilshire in the centre then go in early and rough up his dodgy ankle.Look to assist when required defensively with high pressure upon the Fiorentina midfield as soon as they have the ball, don’t let them settle and ensure we are winning every loose ball. If we have freekicks/corners then stay back looking for loose balls or counterattacks.
Once we have it back under control be disciplined, keep the ball below waist height and thread it through to a player in space especially Bale & Reus as they will the main focus of attack. If you’re in space yourself don’t be afraid to run at the Fiorentina back line.

RW: Reus – Up against Baines today but ideally I want you to come inside and run at the centrebacks. If you do take it onto the wing then look to receive the ball deep and use the burst of speed at Baines to either beat him or force him into making a challenge as you will get freekicks. If VDW has the ball then look to use the burst of speed past Baines and then hit the ball low across the box. Look to get into the box if Bale has the ball. Assist VDW in defensive duties when needed.

LW: Bale – This week I want you to look to come inside as much as possible on diagonal runs, look to lose the FB if they are marking you and target the space between them and the centrebacks. Look to go to ground in dangerous positions for freekicks. If Reus has the ball then get into the box. Use your burst of speed and ability to turn to beat your marker. Assist Pereira in defensive duties if Fiorentina are doubling up.

AM - Gerrard Be an inspiration on the pitch today. Come deeper when not in possession of the ball and ensure we have full control of the centre of the park, constantly look to be winning the ball back and pick up the 2nd ball. Work with the wingers into pulling defenders out of position as they cut inside. Hit the ball on the ground past the CBs for Hulk to latch onto. Don't be afraid to try a shot from range.

ST: Hulk Big task on your shoulders today and for long parts it may be a tireless task. Look to be dragging your marker all over the place, look to make space by pulling him to the side for the incoming Gerrard and a winger to exploit. Go down easy in the box.

This is Porto, this is football!

Subs: Alves
Pastore
Rodriguez
Henrique
Vertonghen
Elm
Amorim


If losing: 70m take off Fellaini & Gerrard and bring on Rodriguez and Pastore, go 4-4-2 (attacking) and use these fresh legs and added goal threat to bombard the Fiorentina goal.
If winning: 80m take off Gerrard for Vertonghen in a 4-2-3-1 formation, look to contain the ball in front of this wall and force Fiorentina to get more and more desperate before counterattacking with the wingers and Hulk at them at speed to kill them off.

Free kicks: Bale left side, Reus right side,
Throw ins: Fellaini or Bale
Penalties: Gerrard

Gameweek 4

LAZIO vs Malaga

Formation - 4-5-1

---------------Marchetti----------------
Corluka----Lugano----Heitinga----Caceres
----------------Sissoko-----------------
---------Banega------Ledesma----------
Zarate--------------------------Ben Arfa
----------------Matri-------------------

GK - Marchetti
RB - Corluka
LB - Caceres
CB - Lugano
CB - Heitinga
DM - Sissoko (Momo)
CM - Banega
CM - Ledesma (c)
RW - Zarate
LW - Ben Arfa
ST - Matri

Subs: Lodeiro, Maher, Andre Santos, Diakite, Bizzarri, Frimpong, Pizarro

Injuries: Agbonlahor, Pepe, Tomkins

We are at home today and will line up in a 4-5-1 formation, looking to attack Malaga and extend the gap between us.

We have a midfield packed with creative players, and with a true defensive midfielder who will look to break up the play, to allow both Banega and Ledesma to pull the strings with the ball on the floor.

Defensively we will press Malaga when they have the ball and look to keep them out of dangerous territory and force interceptions in our half, and the crowded central midfield area.

Marchetti – As always, command the backline, come for crosses and corners and make yourself big if one on one. Distribution wise, keeping the ball is key, and make sure you roll out to the full backs, centre backs or throw to midfield when they are free to receive. Don't take risks.

Corluka and Caceres – I want to see you both working hard today and staying with your man on the wings, eyes on the ball and don’t let him beat you on either side. Stay in front of him and frustrate him where you can. Send him backwards and try not to let him cross the ball in. When on the ball, move it forward to the midfield and let them create, but I don't want either of you venturing beyond the half way line to support attacks. Offer an option on the halfway line but nothing more.

Lugano – I want you on the main striker today, likely Barrios, and I want you to pick him up whenever he is in our final third and in shooting areas. Keep a yard or so on him at all times and do not commit yourself to a tackle. Shepherd him away from goal and make yourself very difficult to beat. If the are pumping crosses in to him, stick to him like glue and make sure you win the ball, and let him know he is in for a rocky ride.

Heitinga – If they come with a second striker, your remit will be identical to Lugano.

If they do not, and with Momo containing the AM, I want you to sweep any second balls up and retain possesion to get us moving. With all attackers dealt with man to man, give an option to the midfield and add to our numbers there.

Sissoko – I want you to be sat in midfield and to act as the enforcer with their most advanced AM. Track him, irritate him and keep him out of rhythm. Where he goes, you go, and when he coughs the ball up, set us moving forwards again with a short pass to the nearest available midfielder.

Banega – Box to box for you today, so I want to see good energy from you, and I want you to want to take the ball forward, as always any time you go for it make sure you get back quickly into the midfield and assist with pressing. Don't commit yourself, but push them backwards and seek to intercept a loose pass.

Ledesma – I want to see patient probing from you today, from your position in the centre of the field. Set the tempo and dictate the play for us, and sit in the pocket. Look to set the wingers or striker free if the option is on, and work with Banega to move the ball forward between you with movement and passing. Defensively you will do the same as Banega and press the ball in our half and seek interceptions; you won't be venturing too far from the midfield in attacks so you won't gas out.

Ben Arfa – You are in an advanced role on the left wing today and I want you to show your trickery and great left foot, so take the FB on inside and out - keep him guessing what you'll do. Hit shots when they are on for you, and make yourself available at all times. If you beat him outside, whip the ball in and let Matri get on the end of it. Defensively, I want you to follow their full back if he breaks upfield, and support your full back. By no means leave him to deal with two men, it is vital you don't lose your man.

Zarate – Operating from the right wing today, but I also want to see you closer to Matri up front when the ball is coming from the left side. When a ball comes in from the left, I want you back post to put it away. Look to take the full back on when you have the ball, inside or out, and always shoot if you can test the keeper. As with Hatem, defensively, I want you to follow their full back if he breaks upfield, and support your full back. By no means leave him to deal with two men, it is vital you don't lose your man.

Matri – I want movement up front from you today. The ball will be mostly coming on the floor from behind, so make runs to space and look to receive the ball. If that leaves you in on goal or with a shooting chance, take it, be greedy. If you are back to goal with a man on, then keep possesion out to the wing or to the midfielders behind you. If the wingers beat their man, get to the near post and meet their cross with a firm header.


All set pieces (inc. pens) from Ledesma. Free kicks in range should be shots, and where it can be put in the box, get it in the mixer.

Subs:

If winning

After 75mins: Frimpong on for Banega. Just break up play and be a nuisance, team with Sissoko and let Ledesma work in front of you.

If losing

After 70mins: Bring on Santos for Caceres and push the full backs on to create chances.

A MADRID(home team) vs Spurs(away team)

-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
M Pereira ----- Otamendi ----- Mertesacker ----- Isla
---------------------------- S Rolfes ----------------------------
-------------- C Eriksen -------------- Defour ---------------
A Lennon -------------------------------------------- Turan
----------------------------- D Cisse ------------------------------

Substitutions
Gamberini
Tiago
P Neville
Diego
Gutierrez
Rodrigo
Adrian

We picked up our first point of the season in the last game with a draw against Malaga so we will be looking for a similar performance against the Spuds.
We will stick with the 4-3-3 formation and attack the opposition and pressure them when we are not in possession of the ball.

Captain = Rolfes
Freekicks and Corners = Turan
Penalties = Cisse

GK Howard - You are an experienced keeper so use that to your advantage. Use your height to catch all the aerial balls. Don't be afraid to come out of your area to gather any loose balls. All in all just be confident and you'll do well.

FULL BACKS Maxi Pereira + M Isla - Main priority is to defend. When one of you is attacking then I want the other to stay back. Play crosses into the box and make overlapping runs using our wingers.

CENTRE BACKS Otamendi + Mertesacker - Keep a flat back line. Use your aerial abilities to win headers. Stay compact and don't make unnecessary mistakes. Otamendi will mark their main striker if Spurs play one up front and Mertesacker will mark the second striker if he plays. Rolfes will be covering for him at centre back if Spurs try and initiate a quick counter attack.

DEFENCE MID Rolfes - He will stay deep and cut out passes and make tackles to win back the ball. He will have to close down their attack mid if they play one otherwise just stay deep and know your role.

CENTRE MIDS Diego + Eriksen - They both have good ball control and have an eye for making dangerous passes. I want Defour to play lofted balls over the Spurs defence so that our strikers can play of the last defender. Eriksen will be allowed to play slightly more upfield and play one twos with his teammates so it will be hard for the Spurs players to stop him. He will be given the freedom to shoot if he sees an opening. When we are not in possession of the ball I want Defour and Eriksen to help the defence and play deep.

WINGERS Lennon + Turan - Lennon will look to use his pace and dribbling skills to bamboozle the Spurs left back. Lennon is very dangerous on the counter attack and we will look to use him whenever we have to defend a set piece situation. Turan will look to try and take on the Spurs right back. I want both Lennon and Turan to get to the by line and cross the ball into the box for my attacking players to score from.

CENTRE FORWARD Djibril Cisse - Will look to use his physical strength to beat the Spurs cente backs. Make sure you time your runs and try not to be offside. If you see an opening then shoot.

Substitutions

Subs if winning by 70mins

On 70 minutes Tiago for Turan
Gamberini for Lennon
And change formation to a 5-4-1. Everybody will defend.
-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
Pereira -- Otamendi -- Mert -- Gamberini -- Isla
-------------------- Tiago --------- S Rolfes ------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------- C Eriksen ----------------- Defour -----
----------------------------- Cisse ------------------------------


Subs if losing by 60mins

Diego for Rolfes
Rodrigo for Otamendi

And change formation to a 3-5-2. Play full attack. Overload opposition box. If we lose possession while attacking then run back to your defensive positions to try and regain possession.

-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
------- Pereira ------- Mertesacker ------- Isla -------
------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------- Diego ------ Defour ----------------
A Lennon --------------- C Eriksen ----------------- Turan
-------------------- Cisse --------- Rodrigo ------------------

The INJURED players are
Dominguez
Schurrle

Atletico Madrid v SPURS

INJ

Mandanda, King Diarra

--------------------------Cudicini------------------------
Naughton------Rienartz------Dunne--------Oriol
-----------------Ederson------Casemiro-----------
Costa-------------------Ganso----------------Piatti
--------------------------Damiao-------------------

Subs Caulker, De Celgie,Giocherrini,Cole, Koke, Heskey, Thomas

Right lads, a tricky game against a class Madrid side here so we need to be on teh top of our game, we have some big injures this week but we have a great squad so we shoud be able to deal with it.

GK Cudicini
OK you may be our 2nd choice but you are still a class GK, instrucuion will be teh same as steves,,do the basics, keep the ballout whatever the cost, come for crosses and always look to throw out he ball to start quick counter attacks.

FBs Naughton and Oriol
Away from home so more defensive today, push there wingers out wide and isolate teh, nuetrilizliing there wide threat will isolate there striker/s and Cam, don’t go in too hard, always give yourself a yard on teh opposition, dot get beat, ,when attacking look to support teh wingers for go down teh wings to let teh wingers cutinside.

CBs Rienartz and Dunne,
A strong performance today,if they play one up front, i want you to double team him, shut him out of the game, if they decide to play 2 up top then i wanr dunny to take the stronger , be on them all the time but like the Fbs always give yourself an extra yard on them, when distributing the ball give it to the DMs or to teh wingers.

DMs Edrson and Casemiro
Right you two will sit in front of the back foru and prtect them, if they come out with and AM/CM then i want you to double team or if they come out in a 4-4-2 then take one each, take them/him out of the game, be rough and be all over them/him, take them/him out the game and make sure he has no impact. When we are attacking only one of you will go forward at a time, when coming forward look to support Ganso or spread it to the wings and give it up to Damiao.

Wingers Costa nd piatti.
When attacking you have the freedom of the field, feel free to cut inside or go down the wings, when down the wings mnix it up eiterh look for damiao in the box or take on your man and take it into the box and shoot, also look to shoot from range, use the dMs and Ganso to spread it around, but i also want you to get back and help the full backs out, i also want you to move more centralif we are getting overrun in the middle of the park.

Cam Ganso
Right again be creative, recive the ball and again like the wingers you have freedom,spread it around to the wingers for damiao, or try it yourself,use your skill to beat players and shoot or pass, also when defending or when they get the ball, pull back abit and try and secure the middle,if we control the midfield ,w e control the game.

ST Damiao
Right we need a good game from you today, i wnant you to be constantly on teh move, don’t let the CBs get hold of you, make runs but also look for passes and long balls, hold it up and move it on either to the wingers or Ganso, shoot from rnage and be a nuisance but always be on the move, ur upfront on your own today so if you get shut down itll be over for us, don’t let it happen

Subs if winning 80

Off Ganso on caulker, switch to 5-4-1 (ederson and camesmiro going CM

Subs losing 75

Off Ederson On Heskey

Switch to 4-1-3-2,play hoof it up to him stoke pulis style.

Atletico Madrid vs LAZIO

Season 2, Gameweek 5

--------------------Marchetti
----------Heitinga---Lugano---Caceres
Maggio----------------------------------Mathieu
--------------Banega------Ledesma
---------------------Pjanic
------------Zarate----------Matri

Subs: Agbonlahor, Frimpong, Bizarri, Tomkins, Pizarro, Pepe, Maher
Injuries: (all subsequently sold or released…)

Atletico are a strong team, and whilst I expect them to go with one up front in a 4-5-1 (or 4-3-3) formation, I’ve included enough defensive strength to protect against a 4-4-2. As the away side we expect them to attack us, and so we aim to absorb what they throw at us with numbers at the back, and take control of the ball with short passes and numbers in midfield. We will use a mixture of width and our creative outlets in central midfield in attack to fashion chances for a front two who are both capable of winning games.

Marchetti - As always, command the backline, come for crosses and corners and make yourself big if one on one. Distribution wise, roll out to the CB’s and WB’s where possible and let them begin moves from the back. Don’t force passes though, hit it clear if there is no alternative.

Heitinga – Stay the right side of our back three, and look to assist your wing back with the winger if required. If he finds himself upfield hold the play up and wait for him to make it back downfield to his position. If the WB gets beaten by the winger, come across but don’t dive in, and wait for Maggio to get back at him!

Caceres – You’re instructions are identical to Heitinga’s, support the LWB in defence and sweep the ball up when it breaks to you.

Lugano – We expect one striker to come through the middle, so it’s your task to stick to him. Take a yard on him at all times, but don’t let him out of your sight. Win aerial battles, hassle him on the ball and keep goal side always. Don’t dive in and risk him getting past – frustrate him and make him resort to speculative efforts.

All CB’s – if Atletico come with a change in formation and two up top, Lugano and Caceres are to mark them, and Heitinga will sweep, and bring the ball out from the back. Communication is vital between all of you at all times – talk to each other and cover all bases.

Maggio and Mathieu – This is exactly the kind of formation your talents allow me to play, and you two have a big role. I want to keep it simple for you; when we have the ball, go forward and provide width and an option for our creative midfielders. Whip the ball in towards our strikers when the opportunity arises, but try not to go much further than the final third because when we lose the ball you need to go straight back. When we don’t have it, get back, defend, hassle the wingers and don’t let them beat you. Talk with the CB’s behind you - they will cover you as you get upfield and will direct you when you’re back to defend.

Ledesma – Keep the play ticking in the midfield, short passes to those in space, and look for your wing backs overlapping. You don’t need to foray forward at all, be a deep lying playmaker and set things in motion. You will have a big role in defence too; watch the midfielder breaking forward, or the attacking midfielder at all times. When we don’t have the ball, go to him and keep him in front of you – follow his runs at all times, and work with Banega to keep it tight in the middle.

Banega – Work together with Ledesma to contain their midfielders, and look to press the ball when it is in your area. Ledesma has the AM/BBM so you will need to watch for additional runners from midfield. Follow their runs if they break forward and keep goal side. On the ball I want you to be busy, and to play short passes to wing backs or Pjanic. Stay central so we are never outmatched in the middle.

Pjanic – Sit at the top of our midfield three and look to set the forwards away when you get the chance. Zarate will drop a little deeper to work with you and you’ll have support with both midfielders behind you and wing backs looking to get the ball in. I don’t want you to waste the ball, but if you see a real chance to unlock the defence with a pass, take it. When they have the ball stick with their deepest midfielder and disrupt him, don’t let him set the tempo, and make him feel rushed whenever he has the ball.

Zarate – Look to drift just off of Matri today. Let him be the spearhead, while you drop back when you want to and help Pjanic, or drift wider to find space. Keep their defence guessing what you’ll do, but make sure whatever it is, it’s providing a threat and goals.

Matri – Be the spearhead of our attacks today. I want you to be available always for a pass, and when it is wide, I want to see you making runs in to the box, finding space and giving our WB’s something to aim for. Zarate is up with you, but he will be drifting around you and looking to provide you ammo.

Free kicks, Pens, Corners and drop balls all from Ledesma.

Subs if winning:

75mins: Frimpong for Ledesma. Frimpong to get in their faces, sit and defend and if he can, get a Frimponging in.

75mins: Sissoko for Pjanic: Momo will come on and drop straight to DM along with Frimmy. Break everything up and be a rough bar steward.

If losing:

75mins: Agbonlahor for Matri: stretch them at the back with pace and look to grab goals. The ball will be clipped over them so stay on the shoulder.

If still behind:

80mins: Pepe for Maggio. Flat back four with Caceres at RB, and have Pepe RW, Pjanic LW behind front two. Balls in the box and plenty of direct running.

Fiorentina v MALAGA

Injuries:
Lucas Barrios
Andre Santos
Nicolas Lodeiro
Christopher Samba

Captain: Dawson
Penalties: Cardozo/Kalou
Free kick: Ramirez

Formation: 4-1-1-3-1

-----------------------------Weise------------------------------
Corluka-----------Dawson-------------Agger---------------Catala
----------------------------Soriano-----------------------------
-----------------------------Garcia-----------------------------
------Salvio-----------------Kovacic-------------Ramirez--------
----------------------------Cardozo----------------------------

Subs: Guaita, Dabo, Kalou, Anelka, Forshaw, Oliveira

Tactics: We are facing Fiorentina........nothing much more has to be said. Just go out there and do the team proud. Take any opportunity you can to make a name for yourselves. The match will be hard, but the giant killing is possible.

Weise: I need game of the season from you today. If you do concede a goal, do not get despondent. The game is still there to salvage, so I want a hard-working performance from you today. Organise our back four well, and give orders from the back. Be confident and give pep talks to our CB's.

Dawson and Agger: Tough game for the pair of you today, but you have the ability to overcome whatever Fiorentina throw at us. Zonal marking from the pair of you, don't go chasing the CF's. I need a flat and structured back four wall, and you need to work with the FB's to make sure the defensive line is up to scratch. Listen for Soriano, who will be man-marking Van Persie. This will take the load of your shoulders and enable you to concentrate on not allowing AM's to break through.

Catala and Corluka: Don't venture forward. I need you to keep the line with our CB's at all times. Attacking is not the key, it is defending and keeping things tight. The Fiorentina wingers will try to attack you, so I need you to force them on the outside. Shield the inside, and never let them make diagonal runs. I need to separate the two Fiorentina wingers from the rest of the team, so Fiorentina will try and go through the middle where we hold a stronger backbone.

Soriano: Easy tactics for you. You man-mark Van Persie. Follow him at all times. I am giving you this role so that our CB's can concentrate on a normal game and not be put off by Van Persie. If he goes deep, follow him. If he tries to sit on the shoulder of the CB's, stay near him. You have more pace and notably more power, and I want you to use it. Do not let Van Persie breathe. This is your one tactic in the whole match. When we have the ball, you STILL stay near Van Persie. The rest of the team will carry on without you. I just need you to keep Van Persie under lock and key for 90mins.

Garcia: Welcome to the team. You are still operating as a CDM but I need to use your good engine. Be the link between defence and attack. I want you to look for the ball at all times and release our midfield 3. When defending, I want you to watch for AM's coming down the pitch. If my tactic works and the wingers fail to come inside, I want you to get in our box and use your height to help out when crosses come in. Stay around the centre circle when attacking. This allows the team to backtrack and use you to get the ball into another direction if the way is barred. That way you will also be ready to stop the CM moving and creating chances, if our move breaks down.

Salvio/Kovacic/Ramirez: All of your are creative midfielders, and I need you to create goals out of nothing today. Salvio and Ramirez to stay just to the left or right of the centre of the pitch. I fear if we go wide then we will be picked off my FB's. If the three of you attack as a unit, then we will get more opportunities. This will mean it will get crowded in the centre of the pitch, but at least then we can work as a team to get the chances, rather than being isolated on the flanks. Take all the long shots you can. The CB pairing will stop us if we venture too far forward, so I need you to shoot from range and provide that one spark of magic that gets the goal. Cardozo will be ready for rebounds from these long shots, and hopefully will create space for you to get a clear sight of goal. Garcia will be shadowing the three of you, so don't be afraid to pass the ball back and then try again from another angle. The three of you are young, and as this is a huge game (probably televised) many bigger clubs will be watching. Show them what you can do - you are playing to show the world just how good the three of you are.

Cardozo: Sit on the CB's shoulders and break left or right when you see the 3 midfielders behind you attacking. This will create the space they need for their long range shots. Then be watchful for rebounds. If you get the ball, feel free to shoot from range yourself. If the shot is there....take it. If the CB's push up then try and drag them back down the pitch again. We don't want them to have a high line that restricts our long range chances. We need them sitting deep. If the FB's break, then go to that side of the flank. It will give you a chance to come inside unchecked, when we win the ball and start our attack.

Formation Change After 70mins if NOT losing

Dabo FOR Kovacic
Kalou FOR Cardozo

-------------------------------Weise-----------------------------
Dabo---------Corluka----------Dawson--------Agger--------Catala
-------------------------------Soriano---------------------------
------------Salvio--------------Garcia-----------Ramirez---------
--------------------------------Kalou----------------------------

Tactics: If we hold Fiorentina for 70mins, then I expect an attacking formation change from them. They will get frustrated and not getting a goal and I feel they will underestimate us and become TOO attacking. In that case, holes will start to appear as they commit men forward.

This is where we need pace. Salvio, Ramirez and now Kalou will take on the tiring CB's. Get further into the box and try and entice the CB's to stick out a leg and catch you for a penalty or freekicks. Let the time tick down, which will further frustrate them. There is no rush.

Weise, take your time with goal kicks and releasing the ball. Let the time tick down.

Soriano to still man-mark Van Persie. I am not taking any risk when it comes to him. We have a 5 man defence now to repel anything that they chuck at us. Boot the ball long in the spaces that their attacks will leave for Kalou to run onto. He will be fresh and ready for 20mins non-stop running and dribbling.

Good luck team!

Fiorentina v Malaga

Injured:
Alberto Botia
Juan Manuel Vargas
Apostolos Vellios
Stephane M'Bia

---

Sirigu
De Silvestri-----Koscielny-----Jagielka-----Baines
Toulalan---Wilshere---Fernando
Farfan----vd Vaart
van Persie


Subs: Neto, Ansaldi, Miranda, Cerci, Rodwell, Barkley, Gignac

---

We continue the formation that has served us well midweek and is the direction we would like the team to head. He want to get the full backs more involved in the attacking play and to provide the threat out wide, whilst not losing the solidity in the middle. We are trying to mirror the Barcelona and Man City formation, with 3 central midfielders and 1 main striker supported by 2 who have a freer role to drop deep and wide and go whether they can cause the most trouble.

Offensively, Wilshere will be the pivot around all attacks. He will link up with the defense and feed the ball forward. We will vary the attacks between the flanks with our FBs, and through our two deeper forwards, who will constantly be on the move, making themselves difficult to pick up. We will play possession football, keeping it moving until an opportunity for a chance at goal arises. We expect a new look to the Malaga midfield with two brand new players. Our passing and movement is going to try to exploit any lack of understanding in the middle.

Defensively, we see Malaga going with 1 up front and 5 in midfield, with 1 AM ahead of two more defensively minded players amd two inexperienced wingers. We have instructed our FBs to get forward, so we have two holding midfielders who will sit and protect the back four and cover the full backs. They will also help the FBs with picking up the wide players when the Malaga FBs are pressing on. As always, defence starts from the front and we will pressurise the ball when we lose possession, starting with the forwards.

In all cases, where a named Malaga player isn’t playing, we will pick up his replacement instead.

---

Sirigu – Command you box and come for crosses. Control the defence in front of you, organising them. Remain alert for balls in behind, where you can sweep up.

De Silvestri – Defensively, you should pick up the Malaga LW, most likely Ramirez or Kalou. Both are players who like to play more centrally, so keep them to the outside and away from goal and you should take away their threat. Offensively, bomb on down the flank, overlap the midfielders and get crosses into the box in the space between the defence and keeper

Baines – Defensively, you should pick up the Malaga RW, most likely Salvio. He is a tricky little winger, but inexperienced. Early in the game, let him know you are there and then keep tight to him and don’t give him any time to play. Offensively, bomb on down the flank, overlap the midfielders and get crosses into the box in the space between the defence and keeper

Kos & Jagielka – We are expecting just Cardozo up front today, so Jags you pick him up. He is strong and quick, but so are you. Stay with him and don’t give him any time on the ball. Kos, you will pick any additional striker, or play as the spare man. Sweep up any loose balls and be aware of any midfield runners.

Fernando & Toulalan – you are playing as the holding midfielders and you job is to protect the back four, stopping any attacks before they get going. You are there to allow the FBs to bomb forward safe in the knowledge that you are both covering them. Fernando you will pick up any AM, whilst Toulalan will patrol the area in front of the back four for any runners, and dropping back alongside the centre backs if both FBs have gone forward.

Wilshere – you will play box to box. When we are attacking, get on the ball and dictate play. Feed in VDV and Farfan centrally, and also play into the path of the FBs when they are getting forward.

Defensively, help out Toulalan and Fernando in picking up the central midfielders, pressurise and do not give time on the ball.


van Der Vaart and Farfan – you will both play in freer creative roles today. Drop deeper to pick up the ball and run at the Malaga defence. Short precise passing to try and create gaps in the Malaga defence. Look to feed the FBs when they get forward, or play the ball in behind if RVP is looking to run off the shoulder of the last man and in behind. When the ball is out wide, get in support of RVP centrally. Defence starts from the front today, so when we are not in possession, pressurise the Malaga players and win the ball back straight away

RVP – you are playing as the focal point of our attack. If the ball is with our FBs, crosses will come in between the CBs and keeper for you to be running onto. When it is central, play off the CBs shoulder and spin in behind. When we are not in possession, defence starts with you, harrying the Malaga players and winning the ball back straight away.


Captain: Jagielka
Free kicks/corners: Baines
Penalties: Baines

---

Any score on 65 minutes, Ansaldi for De Silvestri, same formation, fresh legs

If losing on 70 minutes, Gignac for Fernando, Cerci for VDV

Sirigu
Ansaldi-----Koscielny-----Jagielka-----Baines
Toulalan---Wilshere
Farfan--------------------------------------Cerci
Gignac----van Persie

If winning on 70 minutes, Cerci for VDV

Sirigu
Ansaldi-----Koscielny-----Jagielka-----Baines
Toulalan---Wilshere--Fernando
Farfan--------------------------------------Cerci
van Persie

Tottenham v Porto

Formation 4-4-2

Reina
Van Der Wiel ---Chiellini---Godin----Pereira
Reus------Sissoko-----Gerrard------Bale
Hulk-----Falcao

Good game last week guys and we were so close to defeating the league champions, but that’s in the past and I certainly do not want you thinking today will be a breeze. I want full concentration and motivation levels today.
I don’t want anyone going into this game believing the game is already won and I want instead for Spurs to be put to the sword, goal difference could be crucial come the end of the season and I want us to extend that advantage today.
We’ve changed back to a 4-4-2 formation to really use the wings of the pitch to our advantage and to allow both Hulk and Falcao up front to go man for man with their centrebacks, I want the wingbacks to get forward when available and to dominate their fullbacks so that going forward we can quickly turn into a 4-2-4 formation as the wingers pincer into the box, Hulk is to go into a predominately more central position and to look to really pressurize Richard Dunne.

GK: Reina – Be wary of the threat that Damiao possesses. Look to be on your toes for his tricks, make yourself big in the goal if at any point he gets clear on goal. Don’t look to punch the ball unless absolutely necessary and instead get both hands onto it securely. Look to spread the ball out with your hands to someone in space rather than boot it upfield. Command the box, the back four are settled in front of you and all know their roles, ensure they know exactly what you want in regards to positioning on set pieces.

RB: Pereira – Look to put pressure immediately on Costa, don’t allow him time to settle on the ball or get up speed by using your physically strength over him, if your opponent is running at you with the ball then stay on your feet and push them onto the outside ensuring you get your body between a cross and the box. When in possession look to work the wing with Bale, link up with him and look to beat their fullback with your combined pace. If VDW is going forward on the other wing then ensure you stay back.

LB: VDW – Similar to Pereira, close down any threat early on that Piatti possesses, simple balls into touch. Push any threat wide and block any balls into the box. Look to get forward when possible and combine with Reus against their fullback. If Pereira has pushed forward then stay back.

CBs: Chiellini & Godin – Godin is to man mark Damiao, be aware of his positioning at all times and ensure you block any through balls to him that a second striker or Ganso may try and link through. Out muscle the player and ensure he doesn’t get behind you, hold the player up to allow your partner to double up on him. Chiellini, look to halt the threat of a second striker or a marauding Ganso. If they play one up front then work with Godin to crowd out any threat. Us your physical strength to keep any threat from getting goal side and be sensible with the ball when in possession. Be vocal with the backline, you’re the captain, instruct them.

CMs: Sissoko & Gerrard – Sissoko is to play the more reserved of the roles but has the remit to go box to box if on the ball, if that’s the case Gerrard is to hold back. Be strong in your tackles and enforce the centre of the pitch, be disciplined with the ball and look for the wingers going into space and place clinical balls for them to run onto. Stevie G is to play a more forward role, apply pressure to Casemiro whenever he has the ball and look to win it back deep into their half to immediately put them back under pressure, look to combine on the wing with Bale as you both are comfortable swapping positions. Neither of you should be afraid to pick up the ball at run forward with the ball but ensure you keep your head up looking for options and that you immediately get back to provide cover if possession is lost. On our corners both look to stay back and pick up loose balls to keep the pressure on.

LW: Bale - Big responsibility on your shoulders today as I’m looking at you to break down the resistance of the Tottenham defence. Your speed is key today and I want you to cover the left-side of the pitch with boundless energy. Work with the teammates around you, Pereira will be looking to come forward when in possession so use this to your advantage against the full back. Alternatively Gerrard can move outside, if that’s the case bring the ball inside run at the centrebacks, look to force the defenders into going into tackles to win free kicks in precarious positions. If Reus has the ball on the other wing then come into the box at speed towards the far post. Look to target Falcao’s head with inswinging crosses or Reus & Hulk trying to get space. If Spurs have the ball ensure that Pereira isn’t double teamed. Don’t be afraid to crack a shot from distance if you’ve come inside.

RW: Reus, I want darting and incisive runs from you today, combine down the wing with VDW with one touch play to thwart the fullback and force him to commit opening up space behind him to get into the box. Similar to Bale I want you to go looking for mistimed tackles in positions where a freekick can threaten. If the ball is moving forward on the opposite wing with Bale, Pereira or Gerrard then look to come inside and swamp the box with Hulk and Falcao. Remember your defensive duties when required and assist VDW when Tottenham put us on the backfoot.

ST: Hulk, playing as the second striker today but given free rein to come deeper or onto the wing to provide pressure on areas we’re targeting. When you have the ball keep your head up and use your low centre of gravity and burst of speed and power to bulldoze gaps in their defence, if there’s space hit a shot early at goal as Falcao will be looking to pounce on any loose ball and the ball could end up anywhere in the melee. If Tottenham have the ball come back a little deeper and provide assistance to winning the ball back.

ST: Falcao, look to target Richard Dunne (if he plays) as the weak link today and hang on his shoulder. As the target man you should have more assistance up front from Hulk today so look to use him with balls knocked down to him running at speed. If either of the wings are coming into the box then look to drag your marker out of position to create space. Keep high pressure up on the Tottenham defence when they have possession, a loose ball across the back line and you need to be ready to strike.

Subs: Alves
Topal
Gibbs
Janko
Pastore
Elm
Fellaini


If losing: 70m take off Gerrard & Godin and bring on Fellaini & Janko, go 3-4-3 and use these fresh legs and added height to bombard the Tottenham goal, look to use the wings to hit balls from the flanks onto the giant Janko’s head
If winning: 80m take off Hulk & Gerrard for Pastore and Fellaini in a 4-1-4-1 formation, look to contain the ball in front of this wall and force Tottenham to get more and more desperate before counterattacking with the wingers and Falcao at them at speed to kill them off.

Free kicks: Bale left side, Reus right side,
Throw ins: Reus or Bale
Penalties: Gerrard

A MADRID(HOME TEAM) vs lazio(away team)

Undefeated in 2 games FTW. Lets continue this good form and show Lazio what were made of. We will continue with the 4-3-3 which has given us a possible 4 out of 6 points in our last 2 games. We are playing at home so the onus will be on us to attack and pressure Lazio.

-----------------------------Jones-----------------------------
M Pereira ----- Dominguez ----- Mertesacker ----- Lulic
---------------------------- S Rolfes ----------------------------
-------------- C Eriksen -------------- Defour ---------------
A Lennon -------------------------------------------- Turan
----------------------------- D Cisse ------------------------------

Subs
Isla
Gamberini
Tiago
L Bender
J Gutierrez
Adrian
Schurrle

Goalkeeper - Brad Jones
A big game for you but with Howard out injured, it will be up to you to become the last line of defence and step up. Be confident and you will do a good job.

Right Back - Maxi Pereira
Main job is to defend. Keep play simple early on and make overlapping runs using Lennon. Cross the ball if you see an opening.

Left back - Senad Lulic
Debut for you against your former club and im confident that you'll make them regret letting you go. You will have a similar role as Maxi Pereira so know your role and have a good game.

Centre Backs - Per Mertesacker + Alvaro Dominguez
Play deep so Lazio cannot use their pace to their advantage. Make sure you keep an eye on their striker(s) and use your height to win the aerial battles.

Defense Mid - Simon Rolfes
Stay back and protect the defense. If one of our full backs are attacking I want you to cover for them. Stop their attack mid from playing and close him down as quickly as possible.

Centre Mids - Cristian Eriksen + Steven Defour
You two will be the main creative force and I want you to use your passing skills to penetrate the Lazio defense. Make sure you track back and help the defense when you are not in possession of the ball. Shoot from distance if you see an opening and make late bursting runs into the Lazio box to try and score a goal.

Right Midfield - Aaron Lennon
Use your pace to take on the Lazio left back and get to the by-line and cross the ball into the box. Use Pereira if you need to pass and play quick one twos with Eriksen. Shoot if you see an opening. Track back when not in possession of the ball and help Pereira.

Left Midfield - Arda Turan
Use your great dribbling ability to bamboozle the Lazio right back and play through balls from the wings. Shoot from distance if you see an opening. Track back and help Lulic in defensive duties.

Centre Forward - Djibril Cisse
Great debut last week. Today your main job will be to use your strength to hold up the ball and bring the likes of Eriksen into play. Time your runs and try not to be offside. If you are being tightly marked then come a bit deeper to collect the ball.

If winning by 65Mins change the formation to a 5-4- and play defensive. Take off Lennon and Turan and put on Gamberini and Bender.

-----------------------------Jones----------------------------- Pereira --- Dominguez --- Mert ---Gamberini --- Lulic
-------------------- S Rolfes ------- Bender ------------------
-------------- C Eriksen ---------------- Defour ---------------
---------------------------- D Cisse ------------------------------
If losing by 65mins change formation to 3-4-3. ULTRA ATTACKING. Non stop pressure when not in possession of the ball. Take off Dominguez and put on a striker, Adrian to get a goal.

-----------------------------Jones-----------------------------
M Pereira ------------ Mertesacker ------------- Lulic
---------------------------- S Rolfes ----------------------------
-------------- C Eriksen -------------- Defour ---------------
A Lennon -------------------------------------------- Turan
--------------------- Adrian ------ D Cisse ------------------

Injured players this week
Howard
Neville

Spurs vs porto

INJ
Stefan Reinartz
Emmanuele Giocherrini
Koke

------------------------Mandanda---------------------
Naughton---Dunne---Colocini---King---Caulker---Oriol
--------------------Casemiro----Diarra---------------
----------------------------Ganso--------------------
----------------------------Heskey---------------

Subs Cudicini,De Ceglie, Ederson,Ibe,Costa, Damiao,Thomas

Right lads porto are an amazing team and hahve an amazing strike partnership but our game plan should stop that all together, when attacking i don’t want anymore than two up there(Ganso and heskey) all teh rest stay back and protect the goal. When defending 11 men behind the ball and don’t give them time or space suffocate them and destroy them,

GK Mandanda-
Right be at yout best, keept eh ba;ll out, basics remember no ball in goal, when catching keep hold of it for as long as possible to run teh clock so we can hold them, if losing get it out quick, come for crooses and be in command.

FBs Naughton and Oriol
Defneca thats all that matters, stay back all the time, when dealing with there wingers push them out wide and wait for support, our idea is to double team them and take them out of teh game. Long balls towards heskey, always give your sefs an extra yard ont he wingers and under no curcumstances let them beat you

CBs Caulker,Collocini,Dunne,King.
Right you will all be starting in order to contain Hulk and falcao,two on each,get into them, rough em up if over commit then comone can cover, there will also be help form the 4 more forward player so make tackle win the ball and give it to teh power house that is emile heskey, never hold it we cant afford to, there striker are world class and sois teh rest of there team so don’t give them the chance for an easy goal,also if teh full backs look like struggling go outside and support them be rough be hard and be tough, they will not score!

DMs Casemiro and Diarra,absolutely 100% Defenceive, all over the pitch today, when they attack down the wings support teh fullbacks contain tehm, when attacking through the middle help teh CBs to form an indestrucable barricade. When on it loft it up to heskey so he can hold it up for Ganso, remain back at all times

CAM Ganso
Right i want you back fro evry opposition attack, crowd the midfield and give them no room, our six defenders should keep them back and you 3 in midfield should form and wall, like the DMs, multi defensive e role, down the middle and support the FB’s, when you attack, look for knock downs form heskey and pick it up, its just you two so look for one twos, and take players one with your skill,also take lots of long shots, no support so try and gcatch there keeper of guard.

ST Heskey
Right be strong be big,you have only Ganso for support today so you need to show us why you havebeen labelled a worldclass striker, hold it up and offload it, make your self available and keep moving,when alone beat people and shoot from reange, or wait for Ganso to get up and support
Subs

Iflosing 70
Off Caulker,Dunne,Diarra
On Costa,Doumbia,Damiao
Switch to 4-1-2-1-2
------------------MAnds--------------
Naug-----King-----------Col-----Oriol
--------------Casemri--------------
Costa-------------------------Doumbia
----------------------Ganso-------------
-------------Heskey-------DAmiao---

Oh my sweet word.

LAZIO vs Tottenham

Week 6

---------------------------Marchetti
Caceres-----Papastathopoulous----Dawson-----Mathieu
-------------------Banega-------Sissoko--------------
------------------------------------------------------
Zarate-------------------Pjanic-------------Agbonlahor
--------------------------Matri-----------------------

Subs: Frimpong, Bizarri, Tomkins, Ledesma, Salvio, Maggio, Alderweireld
Injuries: Maher, Lugano (since sold)

Spurs can be very hard to predict tactically, as my fellow manager found out last week. I don't expect any never-before-seen tactical innovations this week, but nonetheless I’ve gone with a formation that gives a balance between attack and defence, and doesn’t allow them to exploit any particular weakness.

We will be playing direct football, still along the ground, but moving the ball quickly forward and looking to keep a high tempo that will allow us to create chances. Our forward three have goals in them and will be playing direct football aimed at taking on the full backs and providing goalscoring chances for themselves and others.

Marchetti - As always, command the backline, come for crosses and corners and make yourself big if one on one. Distribution wise, move it quickly and set us on our way again.

Caceres and Mathieu – Tottenham’s strongest area is actually their wings in my opinion, and on that basis your roles today will be primarily defensive. Don’t cross the halfway line, just keep the ball moving and don’t lose sight of your men. Stand them up at all times and don’t let them beat you easily. Man marking is in effect, so if they cut inside, don’t let them get anywhere dangerous without you. I don’t expect this to happen, I expect they will stick to the wings and whip it in; stop the cross whatever you do.

Papas and Dawson – I expect Spurs will have two up front, and in that instance I want Dawson on the taller of the two to win the aerial battles, and Papas (can I call you Papas?) to stick to the other. Positioning is key if crosses are into the box, so always keep goal side, and watch their movement. If they run at you with the ball, stand them up and stay between them and the goal.

If they come with one man, Dawson picks him up, Papas sweeps up.

Sissoko – You are in the side specifically to deal with Ganso. He will likely be at AM, but wherever he lines up, follow him, tackle him, frustrate him and don’t let him settle. It’s your only task today and it’s your forte. On the ball, move it forward quickly, look for Banega or Pjanic.

Banega – When we’re defending, I want you to stay in front of the defence and to watch for midfielders breaking in to the box. Ganso will be taken by Sissoko, so if there is no other threat look to position yourself close by to make interceptions where you can. When we have the ball, I want you to move it forward quickly and sensibly and transition us from attack to defence. You can push up in support if you aren’t leaving a man in a dangerous position, but ultimately I want you to be the link between the defensive unit and our attack.

Pjanic – Stay centrally and look for the ball at any opportunity in the final third. It will be channeled through you a lot today, so when you get it, pick passes out and try and carve them open. The wingers and CF will be making runs for you all day. Off the ball, try and hassle the DM or deepest midfielder and don’t let him have easy possession.

Zarate – Start on the right, but when we have the ball, make runs to wherever there is space. If you need to come more central, do it, but always provide an option for Pjanic. If you get it out wide, take on your full back, they aren’t the best in the world, so use some trickery and get past them to either shoot or cross it in. Track with the full backs if they break forward, and don’t let them double team our FBs.

Agbonlahor – There are goals in you today, and I want you to use your pace, make runs, and get in behind. If you have the ball at your feet, feel free to run at your man and take him on, and get a shot away or cross it in. Just always be on the move and don’t let them get comfortable with you. Track with the full backs if they break forward, and don’t let them double team our FBs.

Matri – Be the spearhead of our attacks today. I want you to be available always for a pass, dropping deep when needed to get the ball, or getting on the shoulder when you think you can get space. When it is wide, I want to see you making runs in to the box, finding space and giving our wingers something to aim for.

Free kicks, corners and drop balls all from Pjanic
Penalties from Matri

Subs if winning:

75mins: Frimpong for Banega. Frimpong to get in their faces, sit and defend and break up play.

75mins: Salvio for Zarate: just to keep the wings fresh and to use counters to see if we can’t get another on the break.

If losing:

70mins: Maggio for Banega: go to a 4-4-2 diamond with Maggio RM, Pjanic AM and Agbonlahor LM. Look to attack relentlessly till they crumble to the ground like puny mortals in the face of our onslaught.

If still behind:
3-4-3 with Mathieu stepping up to LM, and Gabby joining Zarate/Matri up top. Frantic attacking football, bombard them.

Porto v Malaga

Injuries: Modric, Godin, Bale

Reina
VDW-Chiellini-Vermaelen-Pereira
Sissoko-De Rossi
Hulk-Pastore-Rodriguez
Falcao

Shoot on sight

Fiorentina v Atletico

Injured:
Salvatore Sirigu
Phil Jagielka
Federico Carraro
Fernando

---

ATTACKING FORMATION
Neto
Walker--------Koscielny--------Mbia----------Baines
Toulalan---Wilshere---Rodwell
Farfan----------v. Persie---------Vargas



DEFENDIING FORMATION
Neto
Walker--------Koscielny--------Mbia----------Baines
Farfan-----Toulalan---Wilshere---Rodwell-----Vargas
v. Persie



Subs: Seculin, Ansaldi, Botia, Cerci, Barkley, Bent, Vellios

---

Neto – Command you box and come for crosses. Control the defence in front of you, organising them. Remain alert for balls in behind, where you can sweep up.

Walker – Defensively, you should pick up the Atletico LW. Keep him facing away from goal and encourage crosses from deeper positions as we feel our CBs will deal easily with those. Offensively, bomb on down the flank, overlap the midfielders and get crosses into the box in the space between the defence and keeper

Baines – Defensively, you should pick up the Atletico RW. Keep him facing away from goal and encourage crosses from deeper positions as we feel our CBs will deal easily with those. Offensively, bomb on down the flank, overlap the midfielders and get crosses into the box in the space between the defence and keeper


Kos & Mbia – We are expecting just one up front today, so Mbia you pick him up. Stay with him and don’t give him any time on the ball. Kos, you will pick any additional striker, or play as the spare man. Sweep up any loose balls and be aware of any midfield runners.

Rodwell & Toulalan – you are playing as the holding midfielders and you job is to protect the back four, stopping any attacks before they get going. You are there to allow the FBs to bomb forward safe in the knowledge that you are both covering them. Toulalan you will pick up any AM, whilst Rodwell will patrol the area in front of the back four for any runners, and dropping back alongside the centre backs if both FBs have gone forward.

Wilshere – you will play box to box. When we are attacking, get on the ball and dictate play. Feed in Vargas and Farfan centrally, and also play into the path of the FBs when they are getting forward.

Defensively, help out Toulalan and Rodwell in picking up the central midfielders, pressurise and do not give time on the ball.


Vargas and Farfan – you will both play in freer creative roles today. Drop deeper to pick up the ball and run at the Atletico defence. Short precise passing to try and create gaps in the Atletico defence. Look to feed the FBs when they get forward, or play the ball in behind if RVP is looking to run off the shoulder of the last man and in behind. When the ball is out wide, get in support of RVP centrally. Defence starts from the front today, so when we are not in possession, pressurise the Atletico players and win the ball back straight away

RVP – you are playing as the focal point of our attack. If the ball is with our FBs, crosses will come in between the CBs and keeper for you to be running onto. When it is central, play off the CBs shoulder and spin in behind. When we are not in possession, defence starts with you, harrying the Atletico players and winning the ball back straight away.


Captain: Toulalan
Free kicks/corners: Baines, Vargas
Penalties: Baines

---

Any score on 65 minutes, Ansaldi for Walker, same formation, fresh legs

If losing on 70 minutes, Bent for Rodwell, Cerci for Farfan

Neto
Ansaldi--------Koscielny--------Mbia----------Baines
Toulalan---Wilshere
Farfan-------------------------------------------Vargas
Bent----RVP

If winning on 70 minutes, Barkley for Farfan.

Neto
Ansaldi--------Koscielny--------Mbia----------Baines
Toulalan---Wilshere---Rodwell
Barkley-------------------------------------------Vargas
RVP

fiorentina (home team) vs A MADRID (AWAY TEAM)

Were playing against Fiorentina this week so we will be massive underdogs. The main strategy will be to mark their main striker Robin Van Persie. If we can take him out of the game then we might have a chance of getting a positive result.

-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
M Isla ----- A Gamberini -----J Mensah ----- S Lulic
---------------------------- P Neville ----------------------------
-------------- C Eriksen -------------- L Bender ---------------
Rodrigo ------------------------------------------- AVasquez
---------------------------- P Alcacer -----------------------

Subs
Mertesacker
M Pereira
J Gutierrez
Rolfes
Turan
Adrian
Schurrle
Corner kicks - Eriksen
Free kicks - Eriksen
Penalties - Eriksen
Captain - P Neville

Goalkeeper - Tim Howard
Catch the ball if you can but if the shot is too powerful than punch it to safety. Be confident and you will do a good job.

Right Back - Mauricio Isla
Main job is to defend. Keep play simple early on and make overlapping runs using Rodrigo. Cross the ball if you see an opening.

Left back - Senad Lulic
You will have a similar role as Maxi Pereira so know your role and have a good game.

Centre Backs - Allesandro Gamberini + John Mensah
Play deep so Fiorentina cannot use their pace to their advantage. Make sure you keep an eye on their striker(s) and use your height to win the aerial battles. i want Gamberini to man mark Van Persie and always stay close to him and foul him if there is no other alternative.

Defense Mid - Phil Neville
Stay back and protect the defense. If one of our full backs are attacking I want you to cover for them. Stop their attack mid from playing and close him down as quickly as possible.

Centre Mids - Cristian Eriksen + Lars Bender
You two will be the main creative force and I want you to use your passing skills to penetrate the Fiorentina defense. Make sure you track back and help the defense when you are not in possession of the ball. Shoot from distance if you see an opening and make late bursting runs into the Fiorentina box to try and score a goal.

Right Midfield - Rodrigo Moreno
Use your pace to take on the Fiorentina left back and get to the by-line and cross the ball into the box. Use Isla if you need to pass and play quick one twos with Eriksen. Shoot if you see an opening. Track back when not in possession of the ball and help Pereira.

Left Midfield - Alvaro Vasquez
Use your great dribbling ability to bamboozle the Fiorentina right back and play through balls from the wings. Shoot from distance if you see an opening. Track back and help Lulic in defensive duties.

Centre Forward - Paco Alcacer
Use your pace to play off the shoulders of the Fiorentina centre backs and shoot if you see an opening.

If losing by 60mins change the formation to an ULTRA ATTACKING 3-5-2.
Take off Mensah and put on Adrian.
Take off Bender and put on Turan

-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
M Isla ----- ----------A Gamberini --------------- S Lulic
--------------------------- P Neville ----------------------------
-------------- C Eriksen -------------- L Bender ---------------
Rodrigo ------------------------------------------- AVasquez
------------------ Adrian ------ P Alcacer --------------------

If I am winning by 60mins change the formation to a 4-5-1 and put everyone in defence mode.
Take off Bender and put on Rolfes.
Take off Vasquez and put on Schurrle.

-----------------------------Howard-----------------------------
M Isla ----- A Gamberini -----J Mensah ----- S Lulic
---------------- P Neville -------- Rolfes --------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Rodrigo ---------------- C Eriksen -------------- Schurrle
---------------------------- P Alcacer -----------------------

Lazio vs Spurs

INJ
Oriol Joan
Ederon

------------------------Mandanda-------------------
Naughton------Colocini----King-----------De Ceglie
-------------------------Diarra----------------------------
----------------Casemiro-------Koke-------------------
-----------------Ganso---------Costa-----------------
----------------------Heskey------------------------

Subs Cudicini,Caulker,Rienartz,Dunne,Damiao,Giocherri,Thomas,Ibe
Right lads, very hard away agme but if we stick to teh gameplan we should come out with something.

Mandanda
Right again , save what needs saving, look to throw it out to get teh ball moving quick. Come for crosses AMAP

CBs Colocini and King
Right strength, if they play 1 up top double team, no room = no chance. If they play 2 up top then zonal marking. Be strong in teh air and commit in teh tackles, also be ready to help ur FB’s if they are struggling.

FB’s
Stay back at all times, as always give urselfs and extra yard ont he wingers, no attacking, if going in for a tackle win the ball, when on the ball give to to the midfield or go long for emile

Dm Diarra
Sit back in front of teh CBs at all times, if they play an AM be on him he is your man, if not protect the back for, whenon teh ball same as the FB’sto teh midfielres or deep to Emile.

CMs, right mixed role for you today, when attacking i wan tyou to back-up teh Ams down the centre or push ouwide and provide crosses for Emile, longest are on the adgenda, when defending primarily i want you to pudh out wide and support the FBs in containing there wingers, double team them, but also i want you to help dirra in the centre. Look to give and go with the Ams

AMs Ganso and costa
Right creative i want you lo link with teh CMs and heskey , give and go, attack thru teh middle and push out wide in an attempt to get balls into heskey, longshots are a must, take players on, all game keepthere players guessing all the time, you are our main attacking threat.

ST Heskey,
Same as awlways target man, we will be aiming to get balls up for you to hold up and create play, we will also be trying to get balls into the box for you, use ur Ams to ur advantage. Give and go and use your size to ditract defenders to create room for our AMs.

Subs if losing 75
Off Koke ON Damiao
Off Diarra On Giocherri
Switch to 4-1-3-2

If winning 75
Off Koke On Dunne,
go 5-2-2-1