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ExclusivE intErviEw with brighton and hovE albion managEr gus poyEt

Soccercoaching practicEs from English football lEaguE managErs and coachEs

www.elitesoccercoaching.net november 2011

lma ambassadortorquay unitEdpEtErborough unitEd

In partnershIp wIth

John biltonThe ‘Box cross’

darrEn fErgusonRotation and movement

martin lingDefending in the final third

mohun baganwycombEwandErErs

stEvE darbyIndividual finishing

gary waddocKGoalkeeping angles

Extra-timE:

ExclusiveTraining practicesfrom top professional managers

manchEstEr city

robErto mancinidEcisivE dEfEnding

In partnershIp wIth

Elite Soccer is published by:

Green Star Media Ltd Meadow View, Tannery Lane Guildford, Surrey, GU5 0AB, UKTel: +44 (0) 1483 892 894Fax: +44 (0) 1483 894 148Email: [email protected]

Publisher: Kevin BarrowEditor: James EvansContributing Editor: Matthew Amos, LMADesign: Jimmy EgertonIllustrator: Richard PalmerCustomer Services: Duncan HeardOperations Director: Toby CurthoysManaging Director: Andrew Griffithsphotos: action Images

Published in partnership with:

League Managers AssociationThe Camkin Suite, 1 Pegasus House, Tachbrook Park, Warwick, CV34 6LW, UKTel: +44 (0)1926 831 556Email: [email protected]: Fabio CapelloChairman: Howard WilkinsonChief Executive: Richard Bevan

This publication is protected by national and international copyright laws. Elite Soccer will take legal action against any individuals or organisations found to be infringing our rights, and will make that action public. Elite Soccer members who have purchased this report may circulate electronic or hard copies to members of their own club or school, provided this is done without commercial gain. However, no part or whole of this report may be circulated elsewhere or displayed on any website or distributed commercially except under licence from the copyright owners. © Green Star Media Ltd. All rights reserved

issue 16/november 2011: from thE chairman

Bespoke training practices from some of the biggest names in football

Dear Coach,Welcome to the November issue of Elite Soccer, which this month features another six sessions, all tried and tested on the training ground.

To start, Roberto Mancini presents a session that has helped his Manchester City side reach top spot in the Barclays Premier League.

Its defending theme aims to make opponents’ attacking angles predictable, perhaps one of the reasons for the club’s stunning 6-1 victory in the Manchester derby in October.Next, young manager Darren Ferguson reveals the elements of rotation and movement that have made his Peterborough United side one of the most entertaining to watch in the npower Championship. And from League One, we’re delighted to showcase a dedicated goalkeeping session from Wycombe Wanderers boss Gary Waddock.Torquay United manager Martin Ling presents a training practice on defending in the final third, while LMA Ambassador John Bilton puts into words the unique concept of the ‘box cross’.And our contribution from overseas this month comes from experienced coach Steve Darby, who reveals a plan for individual finishing prowess that’s used by his club side Mohun Bagan, in India.We hope these exclusive sessions will inspire your team, and look forward to bringing more your way next month.

Howard Wilkinson, LMA Chairman

Elite Soccer is a monthly publication for professional, semi-professional and aspiring soccer coaches and is available by subscription only. £97 for 12 issues.To subscribe email [email protected] or call on +44 (0) 1483 892 894

2 NOVEMBER 2011 www.elitesoccercoaching.net

03 MANAGEMENT MATTERS

17 BOOKED Elite sports book review

19 EXTRA-TIME: ... with Gus Poyet

6DARREN FERGUSONPETERBoRouGh unITED

Rotation and movement

10MARTIN LINGToRquay unITED

Defending in the final third

8GARY

WADDOCKWycomBE WanDERERs

Goalkeeping angles

13STEVE DARBY

mohun BaGan

Individual finishing

15JOHN BILTONLma amBassaDoR

The ‚‘box cross’

4ROBERTO MANCINI

manchEsTER cITy

Decisive defending

In partnershIp wIth

www.elitesoccercoaching.net

management matters

MANAGER OF THE MONTH AWARDS

CAREER PATH... with Gary Simpson, manager of Macclesfield TownDid you ever play the game professionally?No, but I enjoyed a good career in semi-professional football, turning out for famous non-league sides such as Boston United, Stafford Rangers, Weymouth and Altrincham.When did your first opportunity to move into coaching come about?That was at Gainsborough Trinity in 1991. I was only 30, and found myself player/manager of a penniless club who were at the bottom of their division. I had to delve even

further down the ladder to mould a team together, but it was a really good learning experience. By the time I moved on, two-and-a-half years later, the club were joint favourites to win the Northern Premier League.Do you feel that your time in non-league

football helped you become a better coach/manager?I’m not sure whether I became a better manager for it, but I was lucky that I was number two to a fantastic gaffer, the late Keith Alexander. We

worked together at Ilkeston Town and it was a great experience. Before then I had coached off my own back, but working as a number two to someone

was a completely different experience. Keith’s approach

was such that very often I didn’t feel like I was a second in command because the gaffer was very willing for me to express myself and make decisions.

Having practical experience like that is essential to anyone wanting to work their way up. Keith and I moved on and oversaw other clubs, including Lincoln City and Macclesfield Town, and he provided for me the link back into the professional game after I’d been away for 23 years, having been released as a youngster by Stoke City in 1980.It must have been devastating when Keith passed away suddenly in March 2010?We had been together for a hell of a long time and to be fair we were a pretty decent double act. He was a fantastic ambassador for every football club that he was at and he was my best mate as well, so it was obviously difficult. Taking over at Macclesfield gave me something to focus on and it is a rewarding experience every day of the week. My route into coaching didn’t come via a professional playing career, but instead hard work and expert guidance. Those are two things that any ambitious coach should be looking for.

Tottenham Hotspur’s recovery

from a slow start to the campaign saw Harry Redknapp land the Barclays Premier League Manager of the Month award for September. The north London outfit saw off Wolves and Wigan Athletic, drew with Stoke City, plus handed out a 4-0 thrashing to Liverpool in the month of September.ToTTEnham hoTsPuR: W3 D1 L0(LEaGuE onLy)

In the npower

Championship, Middlesbrough manager Tony Mowbray took the monthly award after his side recorded four successive clean sheets. His side’s defence kept out Burnley, Crystal Palace, Ipswich Town and Leicester City in moving to the top of the table – and they recorded another clean sheet in their next match as well, against Reading on November 1.mIDDLEsBRouGh: W2 D2 L0

Notts County boss Martin

Allen took the plaudits in npower League One after his side went undefeated throughout the month of September. The 10 goals scored in five matches were enough to move the Meadow Lane outfit into the play-off places, after a slow start to the campaign.noTTs counTy: W4 D1 L0

And in npower League Two,

Southend United manager Paul Sturrock scooped the award after guiding his side to the top of the table. The 55-year-old, who has rebuilt the Roots Hall outfit completely over the last 18 months, saw the club record league victories against Gillingham, Plymouth Argyle, Rotherham United and Shrewsbury Town.souThEnD unITED: W4 D1 L1

3 NOVEMBER 2011

In partnershIp wIth


What do I get the players to do? NetballTo focus players on moving well to receive passes, we start with the ball in hand, playing a 3v3 throwing and catching game in a 15x15-yard area. Teams score by receiving a pass in either 3-yard wide goal, placed in diagonally opposite corners. A player in possession cannot move with the ball, and must rely on other players to make space for themselves (1).Diagonal goalsWe now progress to a normal football game, with each team looking to score by passing to a team mate in the goal (2).Gates gameWe now create a 60x90-yard playing area. Using cones or poles, three 3-yard goals are spaced evenly along the longer sides - one centrally with the other two 10 yards in from each edge. This is an 8v8 game with no restriction on touches.The formation players adopt depends on whether we want to rehearse a high

manchEsTER cITy

Roberto manciniDecisive defendingoverview:Being decisive at the back is vital, because the stronger the defensive principles the more defenders can make opposition attacking play seem predictable.We use this session to focus on showing the opposition outside from the front, incorporating solid formation play and effective covering of team mates. The emphasis is always on getting the ball to the relative safety of the wing.This practice also relies on midfielders and forwards being aware of their role in the defending process. It’s a complete team mentality that we’ve seen played out to great effect this season in dominant victories over the likes of Blackburn Rovers, Aston Villa and Manchester United.

decisive defending

SET-UPaREa

60x90 yardsEquIPmEnT

Balls, cones (or poles)numBER of PLayERs

16sEssIon TImE

Netball 5mins, diagonal goals 5mins, gates game 30mins, 11v11 game 25mins

“Being decisive at the back is vital.”4 NOVEMBER 2011

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Ball movement Player movementDribble

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In the warm-up, ‘netball’ is played first. The player in possession cannot move, meaning that his team mates must be fluid at all times

Play then progresses to normal football

In the gates game, effective pressing moves play away from the central area

In partnershIp wIth


press (emphasis on attacking numbers) or mid press (emphasis on midfield numbers). A coach stands on each side, behind the line, and moves in relation to where the ball is. Players cannot score through a gate that a coach is covering.

What are the key things to look for technically/tactically?We expect defenders to force play to one side, with supporting team mates in turn pressing to keep the ball in that area (3a).Defenders need to be aware of attackers switching play, and must track runners without compromising the guarding of gates (3b/3c).We regard it a defensive lapse if a goal is scored by any method other than a counter-attack.

how do I progress the session?We progress by moving play into an 11v11 game. The premise here is to isolate space in the centre by forcing the ball to one side. This applies to defenders primarily, but we look for midfielders and attackers to do likewise, flooding the midfield and keeping play away from central danger areas (4).

how do I put this into a game situation?We play an 11v11 game, with midfielders and attackers helping defenders isolate central danger areas whenever possible. (4).

Roberto mancinimanchEsTER cITy

Roberto Mancini will celebrate two years at Manchester City in December 2011. The Italian had previously enjoyed four successful years as manager of Inter Milan, having also taken charge Fiorentina and Lazio.

His move to Manchester came at a time of huge investment and expectation at East-lands, and Mancini has gradually assembled a number of top-name individuals into a fluid unit, who this season look the most likely challengers for the Barclays Premier League crown currently held by their city neighbours, United.

As a player, Mancini was a skilful forward who spent 15 years at Sampdoria, during which time he made over 400 appearances for il Doria. He also played for Bologna, Lazio and Leicester City – the latter offering him a brief but definite taste for the English game, which influenced strongly his decision to join Manchester City.

decisive defending

5 NOVEMBER 2011

“We regard it a defensive lapse if a goal is scored by any method other than a counter-attack.”

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A clever switch creates danger but blues press quickly to close down the space

A tackle is made, leading to a counter-attack and subsequent goal

In the 11v11 game, blues press high up the pitch, determined to force play to the wing

In partnershIp wIth


What do I get the players to do? Phase oneInside a 20x20-yard area we play 4v4, though on each touchline there is a floater for each team. Starting in the middle, players have to pass as a four, then find a team mate on the touchline. A player who makes a pass outside the box has to swap positions with the receiver (1). Floating players on the outside can only play one-touch.Phase twoThis is now a half-pitch practice. Around the edge of the penalty area are four defenders and two strikers, while a 25x25-yard square on the halfway line contains four midfielders and three defenders. The drill starts with a long ball from a defender in the area down the pitch into an opposition midfielder (2a). The defender now leaves play. Using their spare man in the box, midfielders have to make five passes. Three players then move out of the box, joining their team mates in a 5v3 overload, and looking to score (2b).

PETERBoRouGhunITED

Darren fergusonRotation and movementoverview:This session is about rotation and movement between players. Central to this is finding the spare man, with players knowing what to do with the ball when they have it. Awareness, movement, passing and communication are key.The practise forms an important part of how we want to play as a team, with frequent rotation of players and an emphasis on overloading areas of the pitch in order to find a spare player or players. This is a situation that happens a lot in games.We know that good preparation pays off in matches. Against Ipswich Town in the npower Championship this season, we perfected a 4v2 overload in the centre of midfield, scoring five goals from this area in a 7-1 win.

rotation and movement

SET-UPaREa

Half pitchEquIPmEnT

Balls, cones, goalnumBER of PLayERs

Full squadsEssIon TImE

20mins per phase

6 NOVEMBER 2011

2020

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2b

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In phase one, a player passing out of the area swap places with his team mate

In phase two, a long pass from a defender begins a possession exercise in the 25x25-yard box

After five passes, three players break forward to form a 5v3 attacking overload

In partnershIp wIth


Whether a move ends in a goal or breaks down, play starts again with a defender on the edge of the penalty area, and we’ll frequently rotate players within positions.Phase threeWe progress the session by adding two defensive wide midfield players who can go in or out of the square, and two attacking full-backs, positioned either side of the 25x25-yard square. When the defender plays the first pass he now remains in position. If a defensive player moves into the square he can help his team by negating the overload (3a), but cannot move out, and leaves the attacking full-back unmarked (3b). If he stays out of the square, there remains an overload in the box. Box players must now make seven touches before releasing the ball.

What are the key things to look for technically/tactically?We want to see ambitious forward movement patterns (3c), awareness, communication, good passing ability, and an ability to be able to take the ball into tight areas playing one- and two-touch football. The session will break down if these things aren’t done well. We tell players to only ask for the ball when they have two or three options in their heads.

Darren fergusonPETERBoRouGhunITED

Darren Ferguson, son of Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, is currently in his second spell at Peterborough United having rejoined the club in January 2011.

His impact upon returning to London Road was immediate, as the club achieved promotion by defeating Huddersfield Town in the npower League One play-off final at Old Trafford.

During his first period in charge, Peterborough had risen up from League Two to the Championship with back-to-back promotions – there followed a short spell in between at Preston North End.

As a player, Ferguson worked under his father at Manchester United, though the midfielder’s most notable contribution was at Wrexham, for whom he made over 300 appearances. He also made five appearances for the Scotland Under-21 side.

rotation and movement

7 NOVEMBER 2011

“We tell players to only ask for the ball when they have two or three options in their heads.”

2020

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Defenders now have a choice – send a full-back into the box or leave him outside to help against the breakaway

In this instance the defending wide midfielder goes into the box leaving the attacking full-back a clear line of approach

Ambitious attacking movement pulls defenders out of position and creates space

In partnershIp wIth


What do I get the players to do?1v1sWe begin in an 18-yard box with a keeper starting in the middle of his goal. There are two forwards on the angle of the goal in line with the penalty spot, each with three cones in front of him.The first forward touches the ball to either side of the cones, and shoots at goal (1a). Now the other forward does likewise, but on each subsequent play they must touch the ball out a different distance, so shots might be anything from 12 to six yards out (1b).In the next set-up, there are two defenders waiting outside the box and a defender by one of the goalposts. The defender passes in to either forward, then advances to close down the space (2a). Forwards must find a way past the defender to produce a 1v1 scenario with the keeper (2b).

The samba goal principleThe samba goal principle effectively breaks the goal in half. It uses the idea of an 8x6-yard samba

WycomBEWanDERERs

Gary Waddock and martin BrennanGoal- keeping anglesoverview:We believe that, three quarters of the time, goalkeepers are too easily beaten with shots close to them.Therefore, we deliver a training practice that aims to change that. It uses 1v1 scenarios between a keeper and a forward, and close-range shots to examine and rehearse angles. The keeper has to protect the immediate space to the left and right of him as he would do if stood in front of a samba goal. In this session, we aim to combine the spatial awareness of a keeper like Shay Given with the 1v1 blocking ability of Peter Schmeichel.

goalkeeping angles

SET-UPaREa

Penalty boxEquIPmEnT

Balls, cones, goalnumBER of PLayERs

4sEssIon TImE

1v1s 20mins, Samba goal 20mins

“In this session, we aim to combine the spatial awareness of a keeper like Shay Given with the 1v1 blocking ability of Peter Schmeichel.”8 NOVEMBER 2011

1a

1b

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Forwards move the ball from behind the cones then shoot at goal

They advance from different sides and vary the distance from goal that they shoot from

When the striker goes alone, the keeper and defender communicate and restrict his view of the target

In partnershIp wIth


goal being positioned behind the keeper (3a/3b). A good keeper should keep the ball out of this immediate space nine times out of 10.Only once the samba goal is covered should a keeper then worry about the corners - after all, a keeper can’t cover the whole goal as he is only one eighth the size of it.

What are the key things to look for technically/tactically?For all scenarios, we’re looking for the keeper to decide when to stay in the goal and when to move forward. If moving forward, he must adopt a position that gets lower the nearer he is to the striker, but the movement must be fast and controlled. He must watch the ball at all times, forming a big object in front of the forward. He also needs to be wide, without leaving gaps such as open legs. If the keeper stays, he cuts the goal in half by using the samba goal principle, keeping body weight forward.For the 2v1 attacks, the keeper must communicate well with the defender to ensure the ball is forced as wide as possible and the goal is covered.

Gary Waddock WycomBE WanDERERs

Gary Waddock has now been in charge at npower League One side Wycombe Wanderers for over two years, and having already landed the Buckinghamshire outfit a promotion, is well tipped to deliver further success this season.

Wanderers finished third in npower League Two last term playing a brand of football that, while attack-minded and entertaining, also retained strong defensive qualities. Indeed, only three sides in their division conceded fewer goals.

Waddock was previously in charge at QPR and Aldershot, while goalkeeping coach Martin Brennan has been at the club since 2008 having also worked at Tottenham Hotspur and Leyton Orient.

goalkeeping angles

9 NOVEMBER 2011

“We’re looking for the keeper to decide when to stay in the goal and when to move forward.”

Linking properly as a 2v1 though, the strikers can change the angle and fashion a better shooting angle

With the samba goal principle, when staying on his line, the keeper can cover the immediate area around him

Coming off his line closes the shooting angle down considerably

2b

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What do I get the players to do? Phase oneWe use a half pitch with 10-yard channels on each side, placing cones diagonally from the halfway line to the corners of the penalty box. There is a central 15x12-yard box just inside the half and two 5-yard target goals to the left and right.Three players in the box play five passes before one is released to join two team mates further up the pitch (1a). The players attack 3v2 against two defenders, looking to score, whilst be careful to remain onside. Should play be turned over, the defenders counter-attack, attempting to pass through either target goal.

how do I progress the session?Now, the centre-backs drop onto the 18-yard line and a deep delivery this time comes from one of the wingers positioned in the channels (1b). We repeat with a deep cross from the opposite side, then re-run the drill. The set-up is then repeated but the winger crosses from further up the line (1c).

ToRquay unITED

martin LingDefending in the final thirdoverview:This session examines defending in the final third, specifically through the organisation and movement of the back four. While we focus on the defence, it’s important that all players on the pitch know their jobs and are prepared for all eventualities.This is an important session for us and comes with a number of variations designed to keep players on their toes and alert.

defending in the final third

SET-UPaREa

Half pitchEquIPmEnT

Balls, cones, goalsnumBER of PLayERs

15sEssIon TImE

Phases 1 and 2 15mins each, game 20mins

“This session is great for helping players use the ball in small and compacted areas.”10 NOVEMBER 2011

1a

1b

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In Phase one, after five passes the player emerges to create a 3v2 attacking overload

In Phase two, the supply line is a cross from deep into the penalty area

Phase three features a cross from an advanced wing position

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We now also rotate defensive personnel to offer new challenges for defenders and to see how results differ – for example, two full-backs, or a centre-back and left full-back, or a centre-back and right full-back.Phase twoIn the second phase we remove all cones and bring in a back four. This defence is tested against four attackers and two wingers. The serves are as follows:• central and from

deep, to land in the 18-yard box (2a)

• received by the wide attacker, who takes on the full-back in a 1v1 and crosses, with defenders dropping back to clear

• from the left then the right (2b)

• a floated pass into the six-yard box

• a grounded pass to an attacker who has dropped short to receive (2c)

What are the key things to look for technically/tactically?Defenders must position well, track opposition movement, cover, communicate and close down. They also need to judge the right time to make a tackle, as well as squeezing so as to compress space.This is a quick-paced session that we assess continuously as play develops.

martin LingToRquay unITED

Martin Ling joined Torquay United shortly before the start of the 2011/12 npower League Two season – his third managerial job having previously taken charge at Leyton Orient and Cambridge United.

The 45-year-old Londoner was faced with a tough rebuilding task at Plainmoor, but his side started the season well with consecutive away wins against Bristol Rovers and Aldershot Town.

As a manager, Ling is able to draw on the knowledge gained from a notable playing career during which he made 564 senior appearances for Exeter City, Swindon Town, Southend United and Leyton Orient, amongst others.


11 NOVEMBER 2011

“Defenders must position well, track opposition movement, cover, communicate and close down.”

Phase four features five waves of attack – the first a simple chipped pass through the middle...

Next, a 1v1 on each wing prompts balls to be crossed in from either flank

Now defenders move out to repel another lofted ball, while a short pass presents the fifth attacking wave

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12 NOVEMBER 2011

how do I turn this into a game situation?We advance this to an 8v6 attacking overload, designed to focus the

position of the back four through a series of different serves.We look for organised movement to counter the following attacks:


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The server lays a short pass to the wing

The midfielder approaches to press

There is sideways movement of back four

A pass makes it way to the wing

The full-back moves forward to close down

The centre-back edges across to cover the space in behind

A ball in the air offers time for midfielders and defenders to recover positions

Space is squeezed centrally with the other centre-back coming in to press

Full-backs look to tighten space

The ball is played into the feet of the centre-forward

The nearest centre-back pushes out to prevent a quick turn

The remaining three defenders close in behind to support, cover and balance

The centre-forward drops short to receive

With the attacker a long way from goal the premise is on positioning in relation to space rather than the man

Short ball centre-left attack

Quick high-wing attack

High ball into centre-forward

Attack into feet of centre-forward

Deep attack through the middle-right

In partnershIp wIth


What do I get the players to do?Game oneIn a third of a pitch the striker stands in front of the goal on the penalty spot, with wingers waiting on either side outside the box, and a coach near the halfway line.The coach feeds lays a pass which the striker takes side-on before shooting (1a). The striker now reacts to a cross from the right (1b) before moving across goal to convert a centre from the other winger (1c). Rotate players’ positions after five run-throughs.

What are the key things to look for technically/tactically?Research shows that 80% of goals scored inside the penalty box are either one- or two-touch, so we’re looking for quick positioning and instinctive finishing. Crossers and coaches must vary their starting positions, ensuring the service remains realistic and delivered at a good pace. Goalkeepers must be confident if coming for crosses.In technical terms, the striker must take on a correct side-on

mohun BaGan

steve DarbyIndividual finishingoverview:The session looks at individual finishing with the feet and head. The session can be very fatiguing, something we’re happy to encourage in order to make play game-realistic; but that does mean we need dedicated rest periods throughout.Although the two games showcase basic finishing principles, the aim is to produce realistic chances for a striker, when he is fresh and when fatigued. We want him to react quickly and well to a variety of different and difficult passes – in essence, no simple set-ups.The session was developed after we noted that even national team strikers were wasting training time by taking up unrealistic shooting positions. At club level strikers often have a small window for bespoke training, so every minute must be utilised.

individual finishing

SET-UPaREa

Third of a pitchEquIPmEnT

Ball, cones (or poles), goalnumBER of PLayERs

4sEssIon TImE

20 mins per game

13 NOVEMBER 2011

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In the first game, the player receives side-on, turns, and shoots at goal

He then looks to divert a low cross from the wing into the net...

...and completes the task by despatching a header from a ball that comes from the opposite side

In partnershIp wIth


position, and offer an accomplished first touch when moving the ball out of his body. The quality of the final strike is obviously of great importance too. As the session progresses, we expect a notable and recognisable increase in shooting accuracy and link-up play. The message to players is to always pass well and then hit the target. Game twoIn game two, we place two poles just outside the box, in line with each goalpost, and different distances from goal. Further out, four cones form a triangle, with the three attackers starting on the parallel cones. The ball is placed next to the remaining cone.The central attacker runs forward and touches the ball back to the left attacker, before making a run around the far pole, then cutting back towards goal (2a). The left attacker plays a diagonal pass to the right attacker and heads towards the near post. The right attacker chases the pass and prepares to cross it from the wing (2b). In the middle, the two attackers attempt to find position and shoot one-touch (2c). Rotate players’ positions after three run-throughs.

steve Darbymohun BaGan

Steve Darby was a goalkeeper on the books of Tranmere Rovers, and enjoyed playing spells in the United States and Australia before moving into coaching in 1979, at the age of just 24.

Returning to the English game briefly with a spell as youth team coach at Sheffield Wednesday, he flew the nest again, taking up coaching roles in Singapore and Malaysia, plus in Thailand where he worked as assistant coach under national team managers Peter Reid and Bryan Robson.

In July 2011 Steve accepted the role of coach at Indian I-League side Mohun Bagan. He speaks English, Arabic, French Thai and Malay.

individual finishing

14 NOVEMBER 2011

“As the session progresses, we expect a notable and recognisable increase in shooting accuracy and link-up play.”

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In the second game, the first attacker interchanges with a team mate before taking a long route towards goal

His team mates combine – another attacker heads for the box while a wide pass is played

On this occasion, the resulting cross is turned into the goal after the initial shot is blocked

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What do I get the players to do? Practice 1In a penalty area, we add two additional six-yard boxes in front of the existing one. There is a goal and keeper at each end. This ‘gold zone’ represents the key area where chances are converted. The drill involves three teams of four players – a team waiting behind each goal and one working team, though the working team will start from behind a goal.The first team of four attacks. One wide player maintains his line while the other runs into the gold zone, joining the two central attackers. Staggering their runs, they must work a first-time shot on goal from their team mate’s box cross (1a). Upon completion, the team moves behind the goal, and is replaced by the next group attacking the opposite goal (1b), and so on.

how do I progress the session?We progress the session by adding in two defenders whose job it is to track attackers in the gold zone (2). Moving forward, we add in

Lma amBassaDoR

John BiltonThe ‘box cross’overview:This session develops a team’s ability to cross the ball from inside the penalty area, specifically into the ‘gold zone’ – an area where 80 per cent of goals are scored from. It also develops shooting ability.It’s important to practise the ‘box cross’ session because, presently, in the English Premier League, strikes from the gold zone are on target 80 per cent of the time. And one in every 2.2 shots finds the back of the net.This is an intense practice that involves up to 14 players at any one time.

the ‘box cross’

SET-UPaREa

Half pitchEquIPmEnT

Balls, cones, goalsnumBER of PLayERs

18 (8v8 plus keepers)sEssIon TImE

Session 12mins, development 15mins

“In the English Premier League, strikes from the gold zone are on target 80 per cent of the time.”15 NOVEMBER 2011

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In practice 1, one blue player stays wide and a box cross is made into the gold zone

Once the move is complete, whites attack, coming back in the other direction

Adding in defenders creates a new challenge for each team

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two wide defenders to cover space in the channels.

What are the key things to look for technically/tactically?We look for high-tempo passing and running. Wide players must use quick, grounded passes into the gold zone, using the inside of the foot or instep.Timing of runs is important, with strikers arriving to stroke the ball home.Practice 2This is played in a half-pitch narrowed on both sides by 10 yards, with a penalty area placed at either end. It’s 8v8 (plus keeper), in 2-4-2 formations. Teams attack each length in turn, building on alternating sides of the pitch, with only defenders allowed to tackle at first (3). A pass is laid into a striker, who advances and makes a box cross into the gold zone, with inrushing midfielders also ready to shoot. Next, play comes back the other way.We now progress by making opposition central midfielders active (4), then all defenders and mid-fielders (5).

Finally, we allow free play to ensure that centre-backs go wide, midfielders receive open and play forward quickly, strikers come into the hole and full-backs get the opportunity to deliver the box cross.

John BiltonLma amBassaDoR

John Bilton has just completed an 18-month period at Fenerbahce SK.

He had an extensive career in English non-league football as player and manager before moving into youth development, serving the likes of Leeds United, Rotherham United, Singapore National Academy, Notts County, Oldham Athletic and Doncaster Rovers.

He has delivered UEFA A and Pro Licence courses in Turkey and Cyprus and was the England women’s national team manger from 1991 to 1993.

the ‘box cross’

16 NOVEMBER 2011

“Wide players must use quick, grounded passes into the gold zone, using the inside of the foot or instep.”

5

44 1/2 PITCH

5

44 1/2 PITCH

5

44 1/2 PITCH

In progression, opposition central midfielders become active

In the half-pitch practice, each team builds from the back, with defenders looking to cut out the box cross

Finally, all opposition defenders and midfielders can block attacking movement

3

4

5


KEy


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KEy

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booked: this month’s choicE

17 NOVEMBER 2011

Developing Sport ExpertiseResearchers and coaches put theory into practiceDamian Farrow, Joe Baker, Clare MacMahon (editors)Routledge 215pp

This book lives up to its subtitle by providing, in the words of top coaches, an insight into the reality

of delivering skill development. Thankfully for ordinary readers, the way the coaches put it is easier to understand than the way the sports scientists sometimes do, otherwise Developing Sport Expertise would be a very dry read indeed.

As it happens however, whilst each of the 13 chapters is written by guest academics or one of the editors, the Coach’s Corner at the end of each one is provided by practising senior coaches from sports including rugby, swimming, basketball, football, cricket, rowing and hockey. This makes for some welcome light relief, plus some good explanations of the theory in practice.

Each chapter is also a specific discussion of one aspect of the latest (as of the 2008 publication date) thinking on an aspect of skill development as it applies to elite athletes, and the people who coach them. Overall, it is authoritative, well written and addresses some of the most intriguing questions

“If you are interested in what makes a good coach and how you might become a better one, there are many suggestions here.”

in sport, such as what causes choking?

Perhaps the most relevant chapter for coach development is entitled Expert Coaches in Action. If you are interested in what makes a good coach and how you might become a better one, there are many suggestions here, some of them going against conventional thinking. What makes a good coach is unclear, as the measurement of success can really only be undertaken by measuring the success of a coach’s players. For team sports, winning is an obvious yardstick, yet that overlooks the impact of star players.

Researchers have therefore focused on other lines of questioning. These are:

What do expert coaches see that other coaches might miss?

Do expert coaches organise training sessions that are more efficient and effective than those of others?

The difference between expert and non-expert coaches has been highlighted by research, shedding light on these questions. In one experiment coaches were asked to observe video recordings of four swimmers of different skill levels, were asked to analyse the strokes and provide instruction. Novice coaches were vague and

superficial in their analysis, while expert coaches were able to provide deep insight into the technical issues, could “see” more and offer better feedback. Intervention by expert coaches can therefore result in feedback and error correction that has an immediate and larger impact on skill development.

Experience counts.Regarding the second question,

the answer from research is an unequivocal yes. It is the job of coaches to design deliberate practices that are the most effective at developing skills. Analysis of the coaching actions of the highly successful UCLA basketball coach John Wooden (featured in the last issue) showed that 75 per cent of his behaviours consisted of some form of instruction. The other key factor appears to be that Wooden, and others of his ilk, do not waste a second of time at practices. The authors point out that for team sports, practices that are even under constant supervision often suffer from under-utilisation of time. In one study of practices of high-level junior ice-hockey players it was found that they were inactive 48 per cent of the time. Contrast this with a similar study of practices undertaken by

The Science and Reality of Skill Acquisition

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www.elitesoccercoaching.net18 NOVEMBER 2011

booked: this month’s choicE

a volleyball coach which showed that her athletes were active 98 per cent of the time. Even the seven per cent if inactivity was rest breaks during which the coach continued to instruct.

The authors suggest that developing drills that simulate game scenarios is something that is common to all great coaches. Drills should match the physical demands that players face in matches, and the most inventive coaches will come up everything from games designed to score points in the dying seconds, to bringing fans to heckle. Wooden is said to have spent as much time preparing his practices as delivering them.

So much for the theory section. Patrick Hunt, a senior Australian basketball coach, ends the chapter with a plea for more research and information on what needs to be considered to develop coaching expertise, and area where research has only scratched the surface. He thinks coach education courses are vital but only a small part of the collection of tools and experiences that should be used to develop an expert coach. Among the others are playing experience, informal coach development experiences, trial-and-error practices, competitions and self-evaluation. “It might sound like a cliché, but the best coaches learn from every experience they have,” says Hunt.

Coaches will find the debate on the play versus practice moves on through a clear analysis. Not enough play and too much

deliberate practice too early can lead to burn-out, injury and disillusion among players. Getting the balance right at the three key stages of athlete development (6-12, 13-15, and 16+) is crucial. Deliberate practice can only improve current performance and playing and having fun through sport is essential for children. Too much early specialisation in a sport should be avoided.

A down-to-earth view on this is provided by former Wallabies coach Eddie Jones at the end of this chapter with his observation that in his experience elite players that have played more different sports in their earlier years are tactically more astute. Those who specialised too early often show a lack of creativity. “Rarely do players initiate their own warm up with a ball. They have to be told by coaching staff to get underway. In past generations players would arrive early simply to throw the ball around before the formal training session began. A lack of creativity means we have fewer players with the decision-making skills required to win games of rugby,” says Jones.

Does practice make perfect? The link between performance and time spent practicing is almost a given a chapter on this subject emphasises that the quality and nature of practice is also important. How odd to think, as they authors point out, that Roger Bannister while preparing to break the four minute mile limited himself to half an hour or training per day,

here at Elite soccer, we value highly the knowledge and judgement of you, our

subscribers. Over the past few months we’ve been delighted to put forward some fantastic coaching literature that examines

the psychological side of sports practice, but there are undoubtedly a number of gems we’ve not uncovered.we’d like to hear from you if there’s a coaching book that has really helped to shape and focus your side. Contact us at [email protected], and we’ll

look to showcase the best going forward.In striving to make Elite soccer the ultimate monthly soccer coaching title, we’re always keen to hear your feedback on the magazine’s content - be that our book reviews, bonus manager features, or the coaching sessions themselves.

“Not enough play and too much deliberate practice too early can lead to burn-out, injury and disillusion”

fearing that the human body could not take any more without damage. Modern thinking is that deliberate practice, in the right measure, is a requirement, and the authors have done well to find Shannon Rollason, head coach at the Australian Institute of Sport Swimming Program to explain what this concept means to him. “I always ask of my swimmers that if they are going to get into the pool to train then they must give 100 per cent and focus on what is required. Sometimes we can make this training fun, but often it is simply hard work.” Bringing a softer side to the coaching process, Rollason also points out that sometimes being a good coach simply means reading the signs in athletes in terms of their readiness to train. He uses body language, facial expressions and “what they do and don’t say” to assist him to formulate a training plan for the week or a given session.

Theory mixed with simple, practical advice. This is an in-depth analysis of sport expertise development with an element of accessibility that is missing in similar volumes.

About the EditorsDamian Farrow is the Senior Specialist in Skill Acquisition at the Australian Institute of Sport.Joe Baker is an Assistant Professor in the School of Kinesiology and Health Science at York University, Canada.Clare MacMahon is a Lecturer in the School of Human Movement, Recreation and Performance at Victoria University, Melbourne.

Expert practical contributions from:

Eddie Jones (rugby union)

Shannon Rollason (swimming)

Patrick Hunt (basketball)

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extra-time: gus poyEt brighton and hove albion

19 NOVEMBER 2011

Former Chelsea and Spurs midfielder Gus Poyet has eased comfortably into management, guiding Brighton & Hove Albion to the npower League One crown last season. With the club tackling the demands of the Championship well in the opening months, the Uruguayan took time out to reflect on two years in the job.

W ho has influenced you most in terms of your

management style?“I guess I am influenced by

a number of people. When Gianluca Vialli took the job at Chelsea I realised that I needed to pay attention to everything that was going on around me. I quickly went back and looked at how things had worked under Ruud Gullit and then kept learning from people like Claudio Ranieri, Glenn Hoddle and David Pleat. I also played under a manager called Victor Fernandez when I was with Real Zaragoza and he made every day of training a pleasure, so I try to do that too.

“Naturally, you take different things from different people. I would love to be as relaxed outside football as Ruud Gullit is, but that’s not my character. Also, I would like to understand the game and to see the quality of things in the way that Glenn Hoddle did, but he had his own unique way. I think I’ve taken things from everyone I’ve played for, while at the same time avoiding the bits that I didn’t like... which, of course, I won’t tell you!”

I t’s been a great ride so far for Brighton, and one that has built

expectations. Does that put you under pressure?

“Obviously fans must be careful not to take things for granted. We have a group of players who haven’t played in the Championship before and this is a totally different division; it’s really tough, with big teams spending big money. The experience is great for all of us, but sometimes when you put everything together – a new stadium, new players and so on – it takes time. But we’ve got a decent, middle-of-the-table budget, and we’re competitive, so we’ll have to wait and see.

“At the end of the day though the Championship has more quality than League One. It’s got some massive teams and they’re all pushing for the Barclays Premier League. If you’ve got, say, 10 teams pushing for promotion and only three can go up, does that mean that the other seven have failed? Every year you have teams who promise their fans that this is the year they are going to make it, but that’s unrealistic. It’s great to have ambition, but you need to be careful and realistic. And if we do go up, I want us to stay there.”

m any hailed the signing of Craig Mackail-smith as a

real sign of intent. Did you see it that way too?

“That signing was the result of good work by the whole club, especially the chairman. We all did

our jobs, we knew how much we could spend and we knew we could convince people that we were going places. To have a Chairman like Tony Bloom in my first managerial role is perfect. I know how ambitious he is; he wants to get to the Barclays Premier League but I know that he is cautious when he has to be. So even if we want to get there as quickly as possible, he knows that it may take a few years. For me, that’s great... there’s pressure, but it’s not crazy.”

y ou seem completely content at the moment.

“I am. We have the club working the way we like it, and I believe that we’re creating something that we will be proud of for the rest of our lives. Right now, the first-team and the reserves play

in exactly the same way and this season we

are going to take that down to the Under-18s and Under-16s

too. We’re slowly building a style and an identity for this club and for

me as a manager that’s absolutely

amazing.”

“we have the club working the way we like it, and I believe that we’re creating something that we will be proud of for the rest of our lives.”

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