Hey guys, I have a special post for you today and one that you won’t want to miss. I have enjoyed some great success on Football Manager 2011 with my Newcastle side. Well today I will share with you how I did it, a complete FM 2011 tactics guide on how to beat everyone in the Premier League. Formations and tactics make all the difference in FM11 and sometimes the simplest ones work best. That is my philosophy and this Football Manager Premiership tactics guide should help you gain some of my success. I still use a lot of tweaks at half time and team talks always have an effect, but these tactical guides should help you get the formation and tactics right for kick-off. I will talk about each Premier League club in alphabetical order and list their weakness’, tactics and how to beat them.
![](https://www.footballmanagerstory.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2011/03/tactics-guide-for-premier-league-image.png" "tactics guide for premier league image")
Some of you may already have read my FM 2011 — Newcastle tactics 4-4-2 and 4-5-1 post. It basically describes the formations shown in this post and offers the link to download them. My 4-5-1 and 4-4-2 formations are a base that should be tweaked for some matches to suit the opponents weakness’. Within each Premier League club I will describe which tactic to use and how to change it for the best effect. You can download my 4-4-2 tactic from here and my 4-5-1 tactic from here.
Arsenal
- Tactic they use — 4-5-1 with defensive midfielder and two attacking wingers.
- Tactic you should use — My 4-5-1.
- Changes to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Counter home and away.
- Notes — I found that Arsenal develop as the game goes on and you may need to use a slighty deep defensive line with very fast tempo and very wide width. This should only happen after two seasons though. Also use a team talk of ‘you can win this’ when away from home. Always tackle Arshavin hard and close down Fabregas.
Aston Villa
- Tactics they use — 4-4-1-1 and 4-4-2.
- Tactics you should use — My 4-5-1.
- Changes to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Use counter away from home and standard at home.
- Notes — Villa Park has a very narrow pitch and if your struggling to create chances then focus the passing through the middle. This should help if your wingers have unusually low ratings while away from home. Always tackle Ashley Young hard and put strikers onto their weaker foot.
Birmingham City
- Tactics they use — 4-4-2.
- Tactics you should use — My 4-5-1.
- Changes to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Use standard strategy home and away.
- Notes — If you gain a two goal lead change to counter and touchline shout ‘hassle opponents’ and ‘pass into space’. If you are struggling early on just touchline shout ‘get ball forward’ and ‘get stuck in’. Use control strategy if still struggling in second half.
Blackburn Rovers
- Tactics they use — 4-4-2.
- Tactics you should use — My 4-5-1.
- Change to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Use standard strategy at home and counter strategy away.
- Notes — Blackburn are very tough to break down and a shout of ‘get ball forward’ or ‘get stuck in’ may help. Use these shouts if you fear the opponent may score. If you go a goal up away from home, use shouts of ‘hassle opponents’ and ‘pass into space’.
Blackpool
- Tactics they use — 4-4-2.
- Tactics you should use — My 4-5-1.
- Change to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Use standard strategy home and away.
- Notes — You should be able to use more attacking formations against Blackpool. If your struggling I would recommend changing to a control strategy and shouting ‘get ball forward’.
Bolton Wanderers
- Tactics they use — 4-2-3-1 narrow and 4-4-2
- Tactics you should use — My 4-5-1.
- Change to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Standard at home and away. Use counter away from home if you’re on a bad run of form.
- Notes — Always put Elmander onto his weaker foot and tackle Petrov hard.
Chelsea
- Tactics they use — 4-5-1 using defensive midfielder and 4-2-1-2-1.
- Tactics you should use — 4-5-1 when opponent uses 4-5-1 with defensive midfielder and use a 4-4-2 when opponent uses 4-2-1-2-1. Your assistant should help with best formation to use.
- Change to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Use a standard strategy when playing a 4-5-1 and counter with the 4-4-2.
- Notes — If you are struggling at home with a counter strategy change to standard and use touchline shouts ‘get ball forward’ and ‘get stuck in’. Close down Lampard, put Drogba onto weaker foot and tackle Anelka hard.
Everton
- Tactics they use — 4-4-1-1.
- Tactic you should use — My 4-5-1.
- Changes to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Use standard strategy at home and counter away.
- Notes — If you go a goal down away from home change to standard strategy and shout ‘get ball forward’. If you’re struggling with the scores level at home shout ‘get stuck in’. Always tackle Fellaini hard, put Cahill onto weaker foot, close him down and tackle him hard.
Fulham
- Tactics they use — 4-4-2 at Craven Cottage and 4-1-4-1 away.
- Tactics you should use — My 4-5-1 away and my 4-4-2 at home.
- Change to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Use a standard strategy home and away.
- Notes — If you’re struggling to score at home change to control strategy and shout ‘get stuck in’. If you go a goal up away from home change to counter strategy and shout ‘pass into space’ and ‘hassle opponent’.
Liverpool
- Tactics they use — 4-2-3-1 with wingers.
- Tactic you should use — My 4-5-1.
- Change to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Use standard strategy at home and counter away.
- Notes — Before kick-off always go into opposition instructions, tackle Gerrard hard and put him onto the weaker foot, do same with Torres. If you score two goals at home change to counter, then shout ‘hassle opponents’ and ‘pass into space’.
Manchester City
- Tactics they use — 4-4-2.
- Tactic you should use — My 4-5-1.
- Change to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Counter both at home and away.
- Notes — If you are under great pressure at home, don’t wait for City to score…change to a standard strategy and shout ‘get ball forward’ and ‘hassle opponents’. Always put Tevez onto weaker foot and tackle him hard. Close Milner down and be sure to tackle Silva hard.
Manchester United
- Tactics they use — 4-4-2.
- Tactic you should use — My 4-5-1.
- Changes to my base formation — None. However always check assistants advice…when he recommends a slightly wide width and slightly fast tempo, change it.
- Strategy — Use counter both at home and away. Use standard in cup finals though.
- Notes — Always keep your striker as a poacher, if struggling at home early on change to standard strategy before they score. Also shout ‘get stuck in’. If you do go a goal up and are still using counter strategy, shout ‘pass into space’ and ‘hassle opponents’. Put Rooney and Berbatov onto weaker foot, tackle Nani and Hernandez hard.
Newcastle United
- Tactics they use — I would assume 4-4-1-1 but not sure because I manage them.
- Tactics you should use — 4-4-1-1 or 4-5-1.
- Changes to my base formation — Not sure because I manage them and have no experience against the toon.
- Strategy — I have experienced counter attacking sides do best against me so maybe use counter away and standard at home.
- Notes — Mark Andy Carroll tightly and put Nolan onto his weaker foot.
Stoke City
- Tactics they use — 4-1-4-1.
- Tactic you should use — My 4-5-1.
- Changes to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Use standard at home and counter away.
- Notes — Using a poacher upfront works best as Stoke are too strong in the air. If struggling for possession away from home change to standard strategy and shout ‘get stuck in’. Don’t go too attacking at home as you may get caught out. Make sure their forward are been put onto the weaker foot through opposition instructions.
Sunderland
- Tactics they use — 4-4-2 and 4-5-1 with defensive midfielder.
- Tactics you should use — My 4-5-1 against their 4-4-2, or my 4-4-2 against their 4-5-1 with DMC.
- Changes to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Standard at home or counter away.
- Notes — Always use a poacher upfront and tackle Gyan hard. If you gain a two goal lead change to counter startegy, shout ‘pass ball into space’ and ‘hassle opponents’. If you’re struggling at all shout ‘get stuck in’ and ‘get ball forward’.
Tottenham Hotspurs
- Tactics they use — 4-4-1-1.
- Tactics you should use — 4-4-1-1, or 4-1-4-1. Both tactics I do not use and this is why I struggle against Spurs.
- Changes to my base formation — N/A, however using slightly high defensive line, slightly narrow width and slightly slow tempo should work best with the above formations.
- Strategy — Counter at home and away.
- Notes — If you go a goal down change to standard strategy, then shout ‘get ball forward’ and ‘get stuck in’. Be sure to tackle Van Der Vaart hard, put him onto weaker foot and close him down. Crouch needs marking tightly and Bale along with Lennon should be tackled hard.
West Bromwich Albion
- Tactics they use — 4-2-3-1 with wingers.
- Tactic you should use — My 4-5-1.
- Changes to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Standard at home and counter away.
- Notes — Put Brunt onto his weaker foot in opposition instruction.
West Ham United
- Tactics they use — 4-4-2.
- Tactics you should use — My 4-4-2 when playing at home and my 4-5-1 when away.
- Changes to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Use a standard strategy at home and away.
- Notes — Carlton Cole should be put onto weaker foot and Scott Parker should be closed down. If you gain a two goal lead change to counter strategy and shout ‘hassle opponents’ and ‘pass into space’.
Wigan Athletic
- Tactics they use — 4-2-1-2-1 and 4-4-2.
- Tactics you should use — My 4-5-1 against their 4-2-1-2-1 or my 4-4-2 against their 4-4-2.
- Changes to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Use standard strategy both home and away.
- Notes — Make sure you tackle Boselli hard and put N’Zogbia onto his weaker foot. If you are struggling shout ‘get ball forward’ and ‘get stuck in’.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
- Tactics they use — 4-1-4-1 and 4-4-2.
- Tactics you should use — My 4-4-2.
- Changes to my base formation — None.
- Strategy — Standard both home and away.
- Notes — Tackle Fletcher hard and change to control strategy if struggling at home.
Please remember that this Football Manager 2011 tactics guide is based on my 4-5-1 and 4-4-2 tactics, a previous post lists them and offers the link for download. You can see that here. This FM 2011 Premier League guide is also based on the clubs with their current manager, a new manager would require different tactics. Equally David Moyes took charge of Man Utd in my game so when I came up against them I just applied my tactics for Everton instead. These tactics are specific to my team and style of managing so hopefully you can use them for yourself. Even if you only get one useful tip from this post I will be happy. :)
Things to remember before kick-off
- Start by checking your assistants pre-match advice. If he recommends a formation use it, if he says to use a certain tempo use it etc.
- Pick your side according to the opponents. For instance, if you have a good attacking full back with little pace and a fast full back that defends better than attacks. Then you would use the pacey one against fast sides like Tottenham and the more attacking one against sides with less of an attacking threat.
- Always listen to your assistants advice about the opposition. He will tell you which players are dangerous and how best to handle them. Make sure you do what he says in the opposition instructions. ie tackle hard and close down options for the opposition players.
- If it isn’t working on the pitch, don’t wait for a miracle, change it. For example, in the Champions League semi-final I was losing away from home to Arsenal 3-0. I changed my strategy from counter to control, brought on Araujo and Dudu, then did a couple of touchline shouts like ‘get stuck in’ and ‘get ball forward’. We still lost 4-3, but those three goals saw us through to the Champions League final.
- When you are getting close to the full time whistle and hanging onto a lead. It is worth changing to counter strategy and using touchline shouts ‘pass into space’ and ‘hassle opponents’. During extreme cases you could use a containstrategy with touchline shouts of ‘hassle opponents’, ‘play safer’ and ‘drop deeper’ (but only use the contain strategy option when in the last 7 or so minutes.)
- The team talks are very important. Before kick-off I generally use ‘do it for the fans’ if we’re the favourites, or ‘you can win this’ if we’re underdogs. However, if you’re the favourite but not confident of the win away from home I would use ‘you can win this’.
Well if I keep going this article will exceed 2100 words which is too long, so we’ll leave it there. I really hope this comes in handy and if you have any questions I’m more than happy to help. Thanks for reading and I look forward to your comments.
Daniel
28 декабря, 2010 at 13:24
i dont really use my assitants advice apar tfrom formation as he is wrong alot of the time
Darren Smith
28 декабря, 2010 at 13:53
Hey Daniel, thats really strange as my assistant is almost always right. Maybe it varies for different tactics…as in some are quite flexible but some only work with certain settings.
Ana Garcia
28 декабря, 2010 at 15:09
Really fantastic guide Darren, well done.
I myself dont usually use team instructions but having read this I may try and include them in the future.
A thing about team talks I have found is if your assistant says something like player x is looking complacent etc you can say ‘expect a performance’ on him and that will usually re-focus him to a good performance.
I tend to always listen to my assistant and always try to get the best one I can, I too find he is usually correct at least 90% of the time and I find his advice at times invaluable.
Again well done Darren, very insightful and a really good read.
Darren Smith
28 декабря, 2010 at 15:37
I’m glad you like the guide Ana. I find using the opposition instructions help a lot but shouldn’t be over done or your side may hardly attack. Thats an interesting point about players getting complacent before a game. I may try using that tip more often…sometimes it backfires on me but I will definitely look at it in more detail now. You gotta love the assistant, he makes life a lot easier :)
Sears
28 декабря, 2010 at 16:06
Hey Darren, wonderful post. These tactics works well for you, and me too. For my Liverpool game I’ve started taking the opposition for seriously and my assistants advice. There’s a few teams I don’t beat to often, especially Man Utd. Actually, in 6 attempts I’m yet to beat them with Liverpool. I don’t know why but tactical I seem to make a mess of things. In the Charity Shield final, my assistant told me they struggle against a 4-4-1-1 tactic so I applied that tactic. They scored and dominated until I switched to a 4-5-1, then we dominated and should have won. The assistants advice is great though. Although he may be wrong sometimes, the majority of the time he’s correct. I never use touch line shouts as I watch the game in »only commentary». I’m just beginning to get the confidence to start using my own tactics so I’m still adjusting. Before I always used a downloaded tactic, but I must admit, you gain more satisfaction if you when a title or Champions League with your own tactics than one you downloaded. I also don’t use the counter strategy much anymore, only for big Champions League games when I expect to lose or try get a decent draw or something. If I’m playing the big 4 or teams like Tottenham, Aston Villa or Everton I use standard home and mostly away. Against teams I expect to beat, eg Wolves, Wigan, Blackburn and co, I use a control or attacking strategy at home and it varies if I’m playing away. I usually begin with a standard strategy but if were not dominating or creating chances I go more attacking. Your guide will certainly help and improve me as a manager so thanks.
Darren Smith
28 декабря, 2010 at 17:15
Glad this will help mate, thats why I made it. Found it very hard to put my thinking into words but this is the best I could do. About your assistant telling you to use a 4-4-1-1, he does the same to me sometimes and that is the only time I ignore him. When a 4-4-1-1 is suggested I always use a 4-5-1. With a side like Liverpool the standard strategy is probably best for most games as you’ll be expecting to dominate. I enjoy success with lesser sides because I can grind out games…like the Champions League final, we got an early goal and grinded out the victory. Im not so good with tactics to completely dominate any opponent. As my side grows Ill have to adapt though. Thanks Sears, its aways nice to know a post has helped someone. This was 2200 words long so took a lot of research and time to write :)
Laxeyman
28 декабря, 2010 at 18:34
Great guide Darren, I’m sure this will come in useful, so thanks. I can understand why you beat so many sides because you really know how to play against each and every one of them. Cheers :)
Darren Smith
28 декабря, 2010 at 19:23
I hope it does help Laxeyman. Its all my opinion and what helps me win matches really, so could be tough to interpret into other managers styles but I thought it would make for a food guide to new comers and anyone whos struggling.
Birdy
28 декабря, 2010 at 21:41
Hey Darren awesome guide that would really help me when i hopefully get promoted to the Premier League this will help me avoid relegation straight away. Very helpful
Thanks Birdy
Darren Smith
28 декабря, 2010 at 22:13
Hey Birdy, it took a long time to research and write but I thought it would help a few people. Hopefully you’ll make some use of it.
Kevin
28 декабря, 2010 at 22:49
Hi Darren
Very detailed report and will be very useful for a lot of people. Thanks for taking the time to put this together for us all.
Darren Smith
28 декабря, 2010 at 23:37
Hey Kevin, even if half the readers gain something from 10% of the post Ill be happy. Hopefully some newcomers will understand the game a little better after reading.
Herman
30 декабря, 2010 at 06:52
Is there any good assistants you’d recommend? I’ve hired Steve Clarke at Newcastle.
Darren Smith
30 декабря, 2010 at 13:08
Steve Clarke is probably the best assistant willing to join the toon I reckon…Ive stuck by Beardsley and he’s been spot on with advice and press conferences so Im sticking with the toon legend.
Pingback: Darren – FM 2011 Newcastle build for the future 13/14 | Allthatisfootballmanager
CsAtlantis
5 января, 2011 at 04:32
Turning on first window transfer budgets made some clubs get some pretty interesting players, Chelsea signed Afellay and Man City signed Rakitic and Baines(16.5 million pounds!), Fulham bought Gary Cahill and sold Hangeland to Chelsea for a profit to name some interesting happenings in the market
Did the signings made by other clubs affect your approach against them?
Interesting tips on hanging on to a lead, I normally use contain with touchline shouts retain possession and pass to feet
Darren Smith
5 января, 2011 at 11:49
Hey CsAtlantis, I have noticed that the players entering a club do not change their tactics too much its all down to who manages the club. The only thing to watch for is handling these new signings by assigning opposition instruction before kick-off. So to answer your question players signed don’t effect my tactics unless they turn a mediocre side into a good one in which case I may change the starting strategy to counter.
Alex
17 января, 2011 at 08:25
Hi all,
Could someone help me? I m playing a lot of years this game but in the last releases i played few.
I m playing with 2 friends in Spanish League. I took manage of Villarreal and the others took Sevilla and At. Madrid as «equals» teams to play.
I made some wrong decisions but i didnt know what will happen. I sold in the beggining 3 excellent players and i baught only 2 players to improve my Midfield.
G. Rossi, Cani, Ruben were the players that i sold.
I. Affelay, K. Ledesma the players that i bought
We are in November, we player around 9 games. I m in the 17th position with only one win ( I gained 3!!!penalties) 3 draws and around 5 losses. My team playing extremely horrible. The GK do a lot of terrible decisions, my defense mark with eyes ( the opposite players run without any problem to score) My miedfields, they dont know what to do with the ball, they loose the ball so easily the dont tackle, they dont make crosses or few shoots. My strikers ok they try but with also a poor help. I tried different tactics to achieve a good result and i couldnt.
The other 2 players that manage the other 2 teams they played very well, Ok they have some draws and loses but when i see their game they seem to me they dont play like my team.. I dont know what is happening. My players are always unhappy as the club could now achieve its aim.
Could you suggest something to try? Is this something extremely wrong with my tactics?
I used 4-2-3-1 (with AML, AMC, AMR), 4-3 2-1 (with attacking wingers), 4-3-3 (with one AMC and two strikers). Every tactic has the same horrible result.
Thanx for your time.!
Darren Smith
17 января, 2011 at 18:55
Hi Alex, unfortionately I am yet to manage in Spain so may not be able to help you. Its very tough to get your side out of bad form and all I can recommend is listening to your assistants advice and maybe trying a simpler formation like my 4-5-1 or 4-4-2 found here http://allthatisfootballmanager.com/2010/12/fm-2011-newcastle-tactics-4-4-2-and-4-5-1/ These formations and designed to grind out results when your struggling and also work to beat easy sides convincingly. Also maybe try using more encouraging team talks before kick-off. Goodluck mate and I hope this helps a little.
Jim
19 января, 2011 at 14:44
Hi Darren, can you recommend any signings for Newcastle in the first transfer window with their limited budget? Or suggest what areas I should look to strenghen? I believe Newcastle already have a good midfield at least centrally, a decent defence and a couple of good target men up front. Maybe I could do with a playmaker or another winger? I’ve got quite a bit experience on FM and have always managed to do well with the bigger clubs but tend to struggle with Newcastle who I like to use being a fan. The squad of 2 years ago I managed quite well but then they had the pace of Martins and creativity and presence of Viduka up front. Maybe a pacey AM/ST to partner Carroll would best benefit the squad? Cheers
Darren Smith
19 января, 2011 at 19:02
Hi Jim, I can certainly try and help with some cheap signings. In my Newcastle game I got Enyeama in GK and Araujo to play upfront. I don’t think its realistic to bring in quality players as the money available really restricts you. Araujo is a top talent and great way to build for the future, he now gets 25 goals a season for me and Enyeama has been voted European Goalkeeper of the year.
I used Jonas and Ben Arfa on the wings, with Routledge and Lovenkrands as backup so decided to leave them a season. I also felt like there was enough strength in central midfield to last the season. The defence is great and the only area to improve on is right back I think. However I would seriously recommend finding a Striker as Carroll is the only decent one left. Hope this helps a little and if you have anymore questions I’m happy to help.
ps definitely get a pacey ST, thats what Newcastle lack the most. In my second season I signed Paloschi and the difference was immense!
Stuart Clapham
21 января, 2011 at 18:26
Hi Darren.
Thanks for this, it works very well for me with West Ham. I use the real fixtures and won the first Four games (inc. Manchester Utd and Chelsea) in convincing fashion.
The assistant was a good help too.
Thanks for all you work and time putting this together.
Darren Smith
21 января, 2011 at 19:01
Hi Stuart, I am really glad this guide helped you. Its really difficult to put everything I do into words but you seem to have grasped it. Thanks for commenting as well mate, its nice to hear this has helped. :)
Syd Geary
26 января, 2011 at 05:31
Sorry Darren
I give up I just don’t win using these tactics. I playing with Liverpool even Sunderland beat me 3 times now. Back to the drawing board for me old chap.
Darren Smith
26 января, 2011 at 11:52
I’m sorry to hear that Syd, I assume you did download both my 4-5-1 and 4-4-2 to use for this guide? If so, I guess the tactic just doesn’t suit your style mate…I myself have tried some very successful tactics for other players but had next to no success with them. Hope you find one that works for you mate.
roman
26 января, 2011 at 17:41
hi darren, im your biggest fans. thanks for advice
Darren Smith
26 января, 2011 at 19:14
Thanks for the kind words Roman, its always nice to know people enjoy the site. I love FM and writing is one of my passions too, so making these guides and writing my stories is a real hobby. Glad to know everyone gets something from them. :)
Syd Geary
26 января, 2011 at 21:03
Sorry Darren, I have downloaded both tactics, funny thing is after I wrote the above I tried them with Newcastle and QPR (Championship) and they work. Go figure.
Be well
Syd
Darren Smith
26 января, 2011 at 21:54
I guess certain teams have preset best formations or something…just glad you’ve found success with some of your games so well done mate.
Timmy
29 января, 2011 at 05:37
Hey Darren,
this guide is working well to me,but i have some question
in premier league,im draw with everton(2-2)and win from arsenal and fulham(1-0 for both)
but when im play the stoke in league cup,im lose 2-1
can you tell me what happen(btw,using this guide with resting player one day before match was very working!)im use newcastle :)
Darren Smith
29 января, 2011 at 21:39
Hey Timmy, glad to hear this guide has helped. All it is, is my personal experience against each side. The one flaw with this tactic and guide is its based on scraping through some games and you may find you lose or draw the odd match that you’d expect to win. Also, it depends on what team talk you used. If you use the wrong team talk your players will not play at maximum potential. I usually say’do it for the fans’ when Im the favourite to win and ‘you can win this’ when Im the underdog. But use your assistants advice as well. Hope this helps a bit.
TT15
30 января, 2011 at 10:16
Well, Stoke is 4-4-2 at home actually, but does that work the same?
Darren Smith
30 января, 2011 at 10:24
Hi TT15, I’m afraid you’ll have to be more specific…what do you mean ‘Stoke is 4-4-2 at home actually’. As in they use that tactic or you think its the best to use against them . Either way in my experience Stokes main tactic at the start is a 4-4-1-1 and I have always enjoyed my best results using a 4-5-1 against them. Obviously the game can be different for every new load, plus new players can effect an oppositions formation along with new managers.
Sam
30 января, 2011 at 13:09
Hey Darren I picked up Walsall in league one. I mainly use 451, I started well abc was in promotion spot but dropped right off towards the end. I think my forwards were too slow and gk to average. I ended up finishing 11th. Hopefully with some good signings and cleaning out the dead wood il improve. I found a lot of the time I would go a goal up but they would always equalize. Plus any tips on signings for league one
Darren Smith
30 января, 2011 at 14:53
Hey Sam, good to hear from you. League One is quite tricky, but once you bring in a few players it will get easier. I am useless without pacey forwards and swear by them. Loan signings could be the way forward. Vuckic and Donaldson of Newcastle did wonders for Warren in his Hartlepool game if their available. I’m afraid I’ve not done lower league yet and can’t offer much advice. If I fear my side could throw the lead away, I always switch to counter then shout ‘hassle opponents’ and ‘pass into space’. Maybe this will help. :)
harrry
31 января, 2011 at 20:06
how come i use you tactics and i lose 3-0 to liverpool ?
Darren Smith
31 января, 2011 at 21:46
Football Manager takes far more factors into account for the outcome of a game other than tactics. For instance if you got the team talk wrong, this result would happen. The same as if you didn’t respond right to going a goal behind. Also your players may not suit this tactic, you should maybe check their attributes to see if they have the right ones for their roles.
Kakamal
14 декабря, 2011 at 09:36
Errr.. may I say it is because Liverpool are the king of Europe?
stephen douglas
4 февраля, 2011 at 04:14
Had to play without your guidance last night, Liverpool 3rd game in 2011 v Blackpool went with 442, 3 up and half time, 3 up at the end. They were not very good
Darren Smith
4 февраля, 2011 at 13:09
Hi Stephen, thankfully you won’t need to play without guidance any more. I have fixed the site and we shouldn’t go off line again. :)
Timmy
5 февраля, 2011 at 09:13
Hello,i use this tactic and it’s work very well.for people who argue this guide maybe you can heard to your assistant advice before match,it’s work!
But,Darren i have some question too
If the manager went to the other team,so i have to apply the guide to his new club?
ex:Redknapp went to Man City,McCarthy go to Fulham.So what i have to do?
Darren Smith
5 февраля, 2011 at 14:09
Thanks for the vote of confidence Timmy, glad the tactic and guide help. :)
In answer to your question, yes. If a manager moves club you should apply my tactics to the new club. For instance Moyes took over Man Utd and I started using the same tactics as I did against Everton. Basically the manager will use the same tactics where ever he goes. Just be careful though as the new players can make a difference. :) To confirm…if a manager moves club he WILL take the same tactics with him.
boppy
7 февраля, 2011 at 17:53
hello Darren, thx for the guidance, i’ve just had enough of losing and loading the game too many times to find a good tactic, :p
so from what i read, my player low abilities should not be a problem to win a game with a big club (like MU or chelsea) as long as i follow the guide,right?
lots of thx, btw :D
Darren Smith
7 февраля, 2011 at 18:51
Hi Boppy, you’re welcome and I hope this will help.
This tactic may not be suited to all players but is the most versatile I’ve managed to create. You have to remember that there’s more to winning games than the tactics. You also need to get the team talks right as players with bad morale or motivation will play badly no matter how good the tactic is. I think you should see an improvement using this tactic and guide though…I found it very effective in the second season after bringing in players that suit the tactic best like fast strikers and wingers.
I’m happy to answer any questions if its not working mate. :)
Chris Milk
7 февраля, 2011 at 22:27
Thanks Darren, I too am a geordie and a big toon fan, so you can understand my frustration when I couldnt get the right team or tactics when playing with Newcastle, I find it so much easier with bigger clubs, but not with the toon. But now thanks to this guide and your other posts, I find it much easier. I am eternally grateful mate thanks!
P.S. Do you recommend signing Ben Arfa on a permanent deal, or is there any othe cheapish wingers that you can think of?
Darren Smith
8 февраля, 2011 at 11:47
Hi Chris, always happy to hear from a fellow Geordie. Newcastle have been such a great team for me on FM…my tactics and style of managing just suit them for some reason. I’m glad you’ve also found some success because of the site.
To answer the Ben Arfa question he is very good as an inside forward from the left wing, but not worth more than £4-5 mill. I would look into Gaitan from Benfica, he’s been a beast for me. Let me know if you need anything mate. :)
Shane
18 февраля, 2011 at 13:32
Not very helpful tbh, plus the info was probably gathered from reloading the same match over and over again, anyone can make themselves appear to be a great manager that way! Gee. Full of adverts as well.
Darren Smith
18 февраля, 2011 at 13:47
Everyone has their own opinion. I respect yours but not sure why you bothered commenting if there wasn’t anything constructive to say. And don’t say I reloaded to get this info as you can’t even know such a thing. What’s the point in belittling someone and their efforts to help others when you don’t even know them? This guide has helped a lot of beginners and is the audience its aimed at. You seem a little immature and out to slander me, therefore, any future comments of this nature will be deleted. I’m bored of listening to people be plain mean…if you have an opinion and want to share it to help others, great! If you have an opinion and want to voice it in order to make people feel bad, stay away from this site!
Shane
18 февраля, 2011 at 14:29
Well if you want something constructive then I’d suggest managers develop their own tactics. We have the tactic wizard, it does a pretty good job for setting up individual instructions for each role requested, once setup, it’s just a case of doing some minor tweeks. Want more direct, then just use the drop down menu for more direct, shorter then use shorter drop down. In years past I’d have said guides were certainly needed when we didn’t have the wizard, nowadays I’d say it’s better to learn some of the little details. Details like having a conversation with a player you want to rest, I think a lot of new players or even the more experienced would just swap a player in or out of the starting lineup without telling them why. Granted it is a pain to go through the conversation route for simply dropping a player for a match but all these little things help, like having conversation after a player played well. There arent too many guides around about those kinds of things. Anyway, if the site is for newbies then I guess I wont visit, so good luck.
Darren Smith
18 февраля, 2011 at 15:02
I agree with that, and I do not seek tactical advise myself. However, before doing this post I recieved at least twenty requests for it and what should I have done…let those readers down just because you don’t find it helpful?? I understand that a lot of managers do not need this info, but it doesn’t mean the information is useless and that no one else needs it. Like I said, this post was done through demand like most of my posts. I did not say this SITE is only for newbies, merely this POST. I do posts for the readers and to try and help them, so I don’t appreciate sarky and mean comments when all I’m doing is giving people what they ask for. I really get where you’re coming from and your obviously too advanced fr this sort of info, but you shouldn’t assume every player is like you. I haven’t created this site for one type of manager but all. Any help people want I try my best to offer it. It just drains me seeing comments like your first one and makes me consider just shutting the site. I feel like for every one person I help theres another two putting me down for giving certain people what they’ve asked for.
Sam
20 февраля, 2011 at 12:42
Well it works for me darren. Just got promoted to the championship with Walsall. I’m looking to jump ship at the earliest opp but your advice to show interest in shaky positions just gets me fired. My wage budget sucks and have no budget. I have a good team but I want a better job. Surely someone will see my class and offer
Darren Smith
20 февраля, 2011 at 14:29
Thanks Sam, glad you’ve gained something from the post. I’m sure someone from the Premier League or an underachieving but high profile Championship club will come calling. Good luck mate. :)
Sam
21 февраля, 2011 at 05:24
Darren I keep forgetting to ask what dimensions work best with youR tactics. Plus do you have any Training drill advice
Darren Smith
21 февраля, 2011 at 19:01
Hey Sam, when you say dimensions do you mean def line, width and tempo? If so it depends on the opponent but generally a slightly high defensive line, slightly narrow width and slightly slow tempo. Let me know if I’ve misunderstood the question mate. :)
As for training drills I don’t have much advice. Mainly to assign each coach one training area suited to their attributes I guess.
TT15
21 февраля, 2011 at 11:46
What i need to do when like a striker gets an red card?
Darren Smith
21 февраля, 2011 at 19:07
Hey mate, when a striker goes off it depends on your formation. But for a 4-4-2, I would just move your remaining striker to the centre and go 4-4-1. Its trickier for a 4-5-1, you would need to take a central midfielder off for a new striker or move a central midfielder upfront to play a 4-4-1. Also move the AMR and AML back to ML and MR. Hope this makes sense. Theres many things you could do but this is what I’d do.
Sam
22 февраля, 2011 at 00:34
I meant pitch size.
Darren Smith
22 февраля, 2011 at 11:52
Ah I see. Sorry for the confusion. Because the wingers are pushed up in my 4-5-1 and play wide due to a crowded centre, a narrow pitch would have a bad effect. My 4-5-1 needs good performances from the wings or the forward won’t get much support therefore the wider the pitch the better. Also a long pitch would suit the direct style of football better too. But be careful as a high defensive line with slow defenders spells out trouble. :)
Timmy
28 февраля, 2011 at 15:53
hey,don’t hear the worse post,hear the good one
and if this bad guide,why i can number 4 in my second season without any big transfer(except Lucas)this is help me,even im using my tactic or another tactic :)
and where is that bad user,i want to try my desert eagle :P
Darren Smith
28 февраля, 2011 at 19:22
Nice to see someone sticking up for me and my posts, cheers Timmy. Everyone is entitled to an opinion but unfortunately some people just enjoy been spiteful and I’ll never take notice of someone who comments such things without leaving their real name or email address. A little cowardly in my opinion…but at least there’s still readers like you around to even the balance mate. Anyway I’m glad this helped Timmy and thanks again for the support.
Alex
14 марта, 2011 at 20:46
my newcastle side have recntly headed 4 the worst and ly in 17th! any help from any1 plz
sorry i put the wrong email in!
:)
Darren Smith
14 марта, 2011 at 20:53
I have relied to your comment in the 4-4-2 and 4-5-1 post Alex. :)
Alex
16 марта, 2011 at 18:22
1)on my city account will the likes of balotelli,neymar lukaku still develop without 1st team action?
2)wud gaitan be a good 1st team siging 4 city?
3)is there any player(s) that have a long range abiity of 20 under the price range of 24m?
sorryy 4 the long question lol :)
Alex
16 марта, 2011 at 18:27
4) who is the best asistnt manager?
p.s ur guide is immence!
Darren Smith
16 марта, 2011 at 19:06
Glad you like the guide mate, I have seen a lot out there that just tell you how to play attractive football or what means what within the game…but not many people will put their neck out and say ‘this is how I beat a, b and c’. A lot of people criticise this guide saying anyone could write it, but I just wanted to give the readers direct answers on how I win. Its much easier for anyone who is struggling. Anyway, let me try and answer your questions. :)
1) I would say that no player over the age of 20 will develop without 1st team football. However, you can use them against easier opponents in the cup matches and this will be enough to help them develop. Balotelli is one player that definitely needs game time as he has a bad attitude and wont work too hard in training.
2) Gaitan would be a good signing for any side. Though Man City could afford someone even better and theres no point in buying a player you don’t intend playing after 2 seasons. I think you could find someone better ie Eden Hazard.
3) I am afraid I can’t find one single player with the long range ability of 20 from the start. Here are three alternatives though all with minimum 18 long shot ability. Hulk from Porto (striker), Vukcevic from Sporting Lisbon (attacking midfielder), or Monzon from Boca Jnrs (left back). All these guys should be available for under £24m I reckon.
4) As for the best assistant, I don’t really know. However here are three great assistant that are free and probably the best around. Gianpiero Ventrone, Valter Di Salvo and Franco Baldini.
Hope this helps Alex :)
Timmy
23 марта, 2011 at 11:41
with the new patch out,will you update this info and guide?
ex:hodgson in west brom,dalglish in liverpool,tactical change from all manager
Darren Smith
23 марта, 2011 at 11:57
Hey Timmy, unfortunately I am not managing a team in the top flight for the new patch, so my tips wouldn’t be based on experience. There won’t be too much thats changed, but if I ever do return to the Prem for the new patch I’ll do an update to this post. Sorry to not of been more help mate. :)
Benjamin
23 марта, 2011 at 18:57
Hey, I used this with WBA, I only played like half a season, and I nearly lost all my games, exept i won against Man Utd. Am I doing something wrong?
Darren Smith
23 марта, 2011 at 19:04
Sorry to hear this hasn’t helped you Benjamin. Without seeing your game I can’t know for sure where its going wrong. I assume you have downloaded my tactics? Other than that it will be the players not suiting the formation (slow wingers and striker?) or could even be you using the wrong team talks maybe. I’d be happy to help if you have any specific areas where you think it may be going wrong?
Benjamin
23 марта, 2011 at 19:20
dosn’t matter anymore, I deleted the game and made a new one with Newcastle. You got any special tips for me maybe? :)
Darren Smith
23 марта, 2011 at 20:04
Well I would recommend signing a fast striker to be used as a poacher. Also look for pacey wingers like Gaitan from Porto, he did well for me. Other than that just be sure not to use very slow defenders as my formation features a high defensive line and that could show the slower defenders up.
Timmy
24 марта, 2011 at 15:37
Hey Benjamin
Use the guide and Darren tactic,recomended,especially for 11.2 patch
with this tactic and guide if you manage well,at least you will win one cup and premier league at least one time.
this is my current achievement with this guide and tactic
Community Shield:2012 and 2013
FA Cup:2012
League Cup:2013
Premier League:2013
went to quarter final on Champions League for first time join the competition
tips:sign kadlec(i got just 975 k)
sign Gaitan
sign babacar after one or two season,he is beast scored 15 from 16 apperance in league
sign new defender!(the most important)
George
29 марта, 2011 at 19:09
I have to say thankyou for this. I found myself in a situation where my forwards (Dzeko and Rooney) were scoring infrequently and the midfield and the defense were getting the majority.
Now Rooney is scoring at ease and Dzeko seems to be taking up the slack when he is misfiring.
One thinh I have noticed is that the two forwards noted above usually score in fits and spurts, they get 2 goals every 2 or 3 games. This averages out at just under 1 a game but ith 2 world class forwards you can pretty much guarantee one of them will score.
Btw, I noticed we both have Mussaccio. He’s pretty average at the start but he becomes awesome after a few seasons! 2 other players that happens to are Rodwell and Jonny Evans
Darren Smith
29 марта, 2011 at 19:42
Thanks George, I’m just glad I could help. I too find some of the best strikers can perform well every two matches but misfire in the third. Musacchio is a class player if trained well and I also like Rodwell…he develops late but is worth the cash. Thanks for the comment mate, always nice to hear this helps. :)
Alex
18 апреля, 2011 at 21:06
who is better in a central attacking role: David Silva or Eden Hazard
:)
Darren Smith
18 апреля, 2011 at 21:21
Great question!! I’d suggest putting them both in the role and then checking their attributes within tactics screen to see which one has the most appropriate attributes for that role. I think David Silva would be the best playmaker though. However, Hazard will probably surpass him within a few years
Alex
18 апреля, 2011 at 22:47
thanks for the reply! :)
Sears
18 апреля, 2011 at 21:23
Obviously David Silva. Although I did read on a particular forum that Hazard plays excellent in the attacking midfield position as well, but I would rather exploit Hazards pace on the wing.
Rob H
7 января, 2012 at 02:32
Eden Hazard in my experience plays best as a left winger told to cut in and score, run with the ball high and almost full on attack, he scored 27 goals for me at Man City in his second season in 44 appearances!!
Alex
18 апреля, 2011 at 22:48
thanks 4 the reply! :D
Alex
18 апреля, 2011 at 22:50
who is better: Joe Hart or in my opinion wonderkid matej delac? :)
Sears
18 апреля, 2011 at 23:28
Delac by a country mile!!!
Alex
19 апреля, 2011 at 09:50
thanks this will really help!! :)
Alex
19 апреля, 2011 at 12:55
can anyone help me buy some players too make my man city squad better?
GK:JOE HART
DL:JACK ROBINSON*
DR:DARIJO SRNA
DCL:JOLEON LESCOTT
DCR:KOLO TOURE
MCR:JAMES MILNER
MCL:YAYA TOURE
AMR:JEFFERSON FARFAN
AMC:EDEN HAZARD* / DAVIDSILVA
AML:MARIO BALOTELLI
STC:CARLOS TEVEZ / EDIN DZEKO
Key
* = Don’t wan’t too sell (because they look like good prospects for the future) ;)
Alex
19 апреля, 2011 at 13:14
Jack Robinson becomes a brilliant player, good shout on not selling him. Balotelli isn’t that good, I would play Silva on the left, he is amazing when played there. In MC Yaya and Milner are not the best, try and get Fabregas (probably can’t), Hamsik, Sissoko and Vidal. Pick two of those, they are young and good, you want to create a young squad for the future. Buy Serge Aurier as a long term replacement for Srna and replace Lescott with either Simon Kjaer or Danny Wilson. Other than that your squad is brilliant, you can easily win the league in the season that you’re playing in (I guess the first one?) :)
Alex
19 апреля, 2011 at 13:23
brilliant answer!!!! just whati needed! thankssssssss
(yes its my 1 season)
Alex
19 апреля, 2011 at 13:29
No problem, happy to help :D
Alex
19 апреля, 2011 at 17:33
can anyone suggest anymore players?? (dont worry alex great answer im just scouting all the players and picking the best) ;)
Arian
21 апреля, 2011 at 23:17
Hey Darren,
I’ve been managing Liverpool for 9 seasons and won every single league, champions league, and other cup matches. None drawn, none lost, and I’ve won every possible cup there is to be won for 9 consecutive years. The tactic I uses is 4-1-2-1-2 and always standard at home and counter away. Also, «Work ball into box» is the touchline shout that I use and it works perfectly. I tried your tactics and they were good so I continued to win but I was conceding far too many goals. I’m guessing that since you’re managing Newcastle, Carroll is great, and for me Torres was brilliant as a poacher, but after only a season I decided to buy young players such as Paulo Henrique, Neymar, Hazard, Coutinho, Canales, Alvaro Morata, Thiago Alcantara, etc. If you buy all of these players (I suggest that you buy Neymar first, he’s the best), you’ll win every single game no matter what tactic you use. Neymar and Henrique are the most expensive because each one costs about 30 million euros each, but Hazard is 20 million, Coutinho is 15 million, same goes for Canales, and Morata with Thiago Alcantara are fairly cheap (each around 6-7 million euros). Neymar received Golden Ball at age of 18, I’m so proud of him! But no, seriously, out of all of these excellent youth players, he is the best and a definite purchase for every team. I think that your tactics work great by the way, my players look like they have less freedom on the pitch, but that’s good, because when I had amount of creativity set on maximum, none of them actually did what I asked them to. Let me know if you want my tactics, by the way.
Darren Smith
22 апреля, 2011 at 09:02
Sounds like you have found the remedy for success mate. I assume your tactic is the narrow version?? Very effective but I’m a sucker for wingers so it may not work to my taste. Although you have it right on the standard and counter strategies, I find them most effective too. Must admit I haven’t tries that particular touch line shout because I play a direct passing game, but may give it a go. Tbh Carroll doesn’t fit into my Newcastle team, I prefer poachers with immense pace and use Paloschi, Sanogo or Araujo. You have built an incredible team there and no surprise if you’re winning so many games. Your tactic sounds extremely successful, but if its without wingers I can’t use it unfortunately. Hope you keep winning mate. :)
Mike M
1 мая, 2011 at 22:14
Just started using these tactics, played 6 won 6 as Liverpool. Going well so far, only just got the Liverpool job as they poached me from Southampton, but couldn’t have gotten off to a better start.
Darren Smith
1 мая, 2011 at 23:10
Thats good to know Mike, I hope this continues to work. :)
Pingback: Football manager 2011 - Page 10
mikyl
16 мая, 2011 at 22:59
any one know the formation to beat 4-5-1 with attacking wide men and 3 flat in the middle???
Darren Smith
17 мая, 2011 at 11:41
I use that formation so not sure what would work against it. However, from experience I’ve struggle against a defensive 4-1-4-1 before, maybe thats the answer.
Yoyo
26 июня, 2011 at 10:10
Thanks mate, worked a charm against Chelsea in my Champions League match.
Darren Smith
26 июня, 2011 at 10:19
No problem Yoyo, just glad I could help.
Grant
29 июля, 2011 at 17:31
Just got promoted to the prem with Reading so this should be quite useful thanks
Darren Smith
29 июля, 2011 at 18:28
Cool, I hope this helps then.
Xerrek
1 августа, 2011 at 12:04
Seriously I just cannot beat Spurs. I’ve tried the 4-5-1, I’ve tried 4-4-1-1, 4-4-2, counter, standard, different shouts. Nothing works for me, the 4-5-1 has been great against pretty much everyone else and I have Newcastle 3rd in the league right now, but Spurs are just unbeatable for me. Usually I’ll score early on, then they’ll peg me back straight away, and dominate the game from then on. Its really frustrating me now and I’ve taken to restarting the game over and over just to try and figure out a way of beating them.
Darren Smith
1 августа, 2011 at 18:02
Hey Xerrek, I too had major problems beating Spurs at least for the first few seasons until I made a better squad than theirs. They have so much pace and creativity I think they’re a force on FM.
Xerrek
2 августа, 2011 at 05:48
Yeah, they’re a tough team to beat. I have problems with Blackburn too for some reason. My main problem is that my team are totally inept at defending set pieces..
Connor
11 августа, 2011 at 16:29
Hey Darren!
I am yet to put your tactics into practice and hope they are as good as you say, but what i wanted to comment about was how well you have constructed this post and how great it was to read it! Thank you so much for helping us beginners and giving us your expert advice:)
Darren Smith
11 августа, 2011 at 18:45
Thanks Connor, I just hope the post helps. When writing it I wanted to make the process very easy and simple…thats how I fell upon this structure and writing style.
????
19 августа, 2011 at 22:31
i never win in football manager
Darren Smith
20 августа, 2011 at 09:17
Well patience in the most important skill as pressing continue, continue, continue won’t get you anywhere. Maybe try downloading this https://www.footballmanagerstory.com/2011/04/fm-2011-handbook-your-way-to-victory-in-football-manager-2011/
Rawli
27 августа, 2011 at 16:19
hey maye nice post, ive saved your tactics into the correct file but having trouble finding them in game, was just wondering on were i should be looking for them? (ive never saved other peoples tactics before)
Thx chris
Darren Smith
27 августа, 2011 at 17:08
Thanks mate, you just need to go to your tactics page in game and then near the top right on ‘tactic’ and then hover your mouse over the ‘archived tactics’ now scroll down until you find the tactic.
Jean Pierre Herlant
22 сентября, 2011 at 22:59
Hey, nice post. First game with your 4 5 1 tactic, against Liverpool with Birmingham : 3 — 1 at home. It really works, congratulations !
Darren Smith
23 сентября, 2011 at 11:48
Really glad you found some use mate. Hope your good form continues.
James
26 сентября, 2011 at 16:44
Thank you very much. Mainly because of you I’ve become (in my first season with Newcastle) 1st in the Premier League! Very nice post. I won, for example, against Liverpool (3 — 0), Chelsea (2 — 0), Man Utd (3 — 2), Man City (1 — 0), Spurs (2 — 1) and many more!
Thanks again.
Darren Smith
26 сентября, 2011 at 19:07
Thanks for the kind words mate, its always nice to know a post has helped someone.
Martin Sǿr
9 октября, 2011 at 03:37
Thanks a lot mate! Your 4-5-1 tactic and tips gave me an amazing 2-0 win with Birmingham over Manchester United at Old Trafford! :)
Darren Smith
9 октября, 2011 at 09:08
No problem Martin, just glad this could help.
Mahlon Christensen
2 ноября, 2011 at 01:11
Hi Darren,
Your guide is spectacular, but have you ever thought of doing a similar guide for the championship? I’m managing Norwich after relegation in FM12, and could benefit from your wisdom :)
Thanks,
Mahlon
Darren Smith
2 ноября, 2011 at 11:46
This guide is for FM 2011 and I’m currently managing in Spain so haven’t had the experience in Championship as yet but if I do I’ll certainly release something.
Kakamal
14 декабря, 2011 at 09:48
Mr Darren… are these tactics works with FM2012?. And do you have any specific tips to play against 4-4-2?. No mater what tactic or formation I’ve used, my team always been dominating by them and never gotten clean sheets. Their wingers & full backs sprinting like they’re Usain Bolt or Carl Lewis.. wtf?.
Darren Smith
14 декабря, 2011 at 11:40
I haven’t tested this tactic or guide on FM12 so not sure I’m afraid.
Damon
15 декабря, 2011 at 18:44
Beautiful crafted story and guidelines, top notch from me you are a good writer and the tactics are working for me, i owe you my gratitude
Damon
Darren Smith
15 декабря, 2011 at 19:01
Thanks Damon.
rooney fan
29 декабря, 2011 at 15:51
hey darren i dont know how many billion thanks i have to say to you ur tactics are the best in the whole world!u made my job turn around managing man u started poorly drop to 10th place now becos of ur tactics i made it 1st thank you so much! n ur newcastle tactic u should say use 4-5-1 standard home and away cos i use ur 4-5-1 n beat newcastle 5-0 no offense to ur managing club btw i thank you so much for ur tactics
Darren Smith
29 декабря, 2011 at 16:14
I’m glad I was able to help mate.
rooney fan
30 декабря, 2011 at 07:58
erm as for the newcastle thingy you could say use ur 4-5-1 will do cos it works better than 4-4-1-1
Darren Smith
30 декабря, 2011 at 10:46
OK thanks for the info.
rooney fan
3 января, 2012 at 08:59
there is 1 thing tat nids to be done wat do we do when we struggle against arsenal i dont know wat to do fa cup final important nid someone to tell me wat shuld i shout on the touchline
Darren Smith
3 января, 2012 at 18:23
That depends on what happens during the game.
rooney fan
6 января, 2012 at 13:59
erm i struggle them same 0-0?so i’m lost wat to be done n after tat they scored 1-0 still cant find out the solution ok so it is 0-0 n down 1-0
Rob H
7 января, 2012 at 02:42
Hi Darren, great post, do you think you’re style will work with Norwich in the prem? im on FM12 1st season, the hardest job in the prem :)
Darren Smith
7 января, 2012 at 12:46
I would say so yes, but in my personal opinion when managing a team like Norwich you need to find a tactic that suits the team, and their ability best.
Rob H
7 января, 2012 at 23:47
i am trying to revamp the whole team as they have been severely underrated in my opinion. I am also going to be bringing in some fast stikers like you said in order to get the best out of the formations you have here, I will let you know in a couple of weeks how i’m doing:) also do you know if changing man marking to zonal will affect it much? it’s just i have always done zonal marking?
b.t.w, i am an experienced FM player since FM08, and i still find this very useful!!
Darren Smith
8 января, 2012 at 09:55
Man marking and zonal are obviously two completely different ways of defending so I’d suggest trying a switch if your team struggles with conceding goals just to see the difference. Glad you can still find posts like this useful mate.
Bati
30 января, 2012 at 11:21
I’m still with FM11 patch 11.1, I couldn’t afford the new one. I’m starting a new game with LFC. any suggestions?
Darren Smith
30 января, 2012 at 11:34
I would suggest this tactic https://www.footballmanagerstory.com/2011/07/football-manager-2011-understanding-tactics-and-%E2%80%98the-manchelona%E2%80%99/
rooney fan
13 февраля, 2012 at 09:44
hi to all man u managers…n maybe the rest too :) any recommended signings except man u managers which paul pogba n will keane had been fascinating to the first team?
BowenWest
5 октября, 2012 at 19:49
hi Darren. I’m still playing football manager 2011 but do intend on buying football manager 2013. I saw this post a couple if days ago. i have just played the first game of the season with chelsea against Stoke. i did everything that you said and i dominated the game winning 4-0. I really like this post and haven’t seen anything in as much detail before.
I hope that you will be doing one for FM13 as i really think that it will benefit me.
Darren Smith
5 октября, 2012 at 20:34
Thanks mate, I’m glad you found this helpful. I have actually changed and evolved my management style since FM11, I now tend to use one tactic that works for almost all matches to avoid switching and changing things all the time. I will be doing posts on tactics and tips for FM13 so all will be explained. You can also find all my recommended players at https://www.footballmanagerstory.com/scout
de.karpovian
18 марта, 2013 at 09:10
Hey,mate…I’m back to FM 2011 since the f*cking ass-h*le crash dump I’ve met in FM 2013 let me down…I’ve tried to google about the most effective tactics to beat club in the Premier League…then I find this page, you give me illumination,mate…I didn’t download your tactics but using same formation and touchline…
From what result I’ve got using Fulham side…your tactics is awesome incredible…!!!
There’s something I’ve noted:
—Tottenham is the beast…Ridiculously hard to beat,fast-pace…even I find myself struggle to score…Once I’ve beat them, I check everything and I found that you have to beat their composure,concentration and strength attribute (seriously, I must admit they are very good at this area outside accel and pace)…
—My team easily conceded at the first half…but easily to score at the final third…(determination attrib is the key, I think)…
—I tend to use my U21 player if my opposition have higher reputation…to decrease their morale…
—My striker become «nothing» but my winger become «the top scorer» if using exploit the flank…
anyway,thanks mate !!! For posting this helpful article…
Darren Smith
18 марта, 2013 at 11:44
No problem, glad this helped.
Terence Brumpton
23 сентября, 2013 at 15:34
I just bought this game,I know late and having problems. I am playing as Chelsea at the moment and wondered if there’s any advice you could give me ?
Darren Smith
23 сентября, 2013 at 18:36
I’m sorry mate, I’ve played two editions since then, I really can’t remember much to help.