Quote:

When I played the Alekhine I hated facing 2 Nc3, partly because I didn't much like any of the main responses to it, and that adversely affected my preparation. I suspect quite a few other lower-rated players especially could be in that position even though they know about the move. Nowadays I'd be much happier because I sometimes play the Pirc, and sometimes also the Stealth Philidor, which I find is a useful line to have up my sleeve for when I'm taken a bit by surprise (e.g. by an unexpected 2 e4 after 1 d4 d6) or am not in the mood for a sharp fight.

My statistics vs a much higher rated Alekhine specialist increased much when I started to play 2 Nc3 to avoid hes pet lines with the idea of playing Spanish Four Knighs. The reason is that he knows hes Alekhine lines and positions inside and out while not equal booked up on 2 Nc3. It does not lead to sharp play however, with exception of Nd4 line, but it is at least a sideline. As a bonus it can also be played vs Petroff and even vs Berlin and even in its original move order.

I would be tempted to give the Tate Variation a punt.

1. e4 Nf6
2. e5 Nd5
3. c4 Nb6
4. a4 !?   

Worth looking into if mayhem and unusual attacking chances desired.

What's the Two Pawns Attack?

3.Nc3 stuff might also be good if you have time to prepare.  I don't think that Black is in any genuine theoretical danger, but the positions can be sharp and favor the better-prepared player.

Not a sideline at all, but also not something many people play in practice as it needs preparation & the Alekhine defence isn't  really common enough to 'carry' that around on the off chance.

So a fair chance of some surprise value from playing its main line. Always the best sort of surprise

Actually the 4 Nf3 stuff can also get quite sharp/critical if white is principled about things, so that's always an option if you've time to prepare. 

With both of those it of course helps quite a bit if you know what he plays in response - the character of the play can vary quite a bit.

Some milage to be had from annoying people with 4 Be2, although that's probably objectively more effective vs some specific breeds of Alekhine player.

Hello.

TN wrote on 03/10/17 at 01:41:14:

This.

Good luck!

prepare