West ham

West Ham UnitedYouth Academy Coaching Manual

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First published in the United Kingdom in 2009 by West Ham United

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ContentsForeword & introduction 4

Syllabus for the academy 6

Warm up & cool down protocols 12

Techniques and drills

A Beating opponents 18

B Short passing 26

C Ball manipulation & control 38

D Turns & shielding 48

E Combination plays 56

F Long passing & crossing 64

G Defending 72

H Heading 86

I Shooting 96

J Conditioned games 106

K Team organisation 118

West Ham United Youth Academy Coaching Manual

Gender: Throughout the manual individual players have been referred to as ‘he’. This is simply for convenience and toavoid awkward he/she constructions. It in no way reflects an opinion that football (soccer) is a male-only game.

Safety and Equipment: Coaches should take care to follow manufacturers’ instructions when setting up trainingequipment. In particular portable goals should always be properly erected and anchored firmly to the ground.

Physical Exertion: Coaches should be aware that, contrary to traditional wisdom, players can be worked too hard.Prolonged sessions, particularly those involving plyometric exercises, should be kept short and tailored to meet theneeds and abilities of the players.


WEST HAM UNITED TRAINING MANUAL

SECTION I FOREWORD

The Academy of Football is rightly renowned the world over. Allinvolved should be proud of the strong reputation the club has forconstantly producing homegrown players and developing them intoworld-class performers.

A club like West Ham United relies on a passionate and loyal fanbase which has been developed over generations. The affinity asupporter feels with a Mark Noble or Freddie Sears will usually begreater than the connection to a multi-million pound signing fromEngland or abroad, whatever the reputation. The ‘West Ham way’has, and continues to be, to blend such exciting big-name arrivalswith talented teenagers nurtured on the club’s training pitches overmany years of painstaking practice.

Often these youngsters have been at the club since childhood and,thanks to the hard work of our coaches, they are given everychance to rise through the ranks with full licence to achieve all theycan. No barrier is put in their way and every effort is made toprepare them for life on and off the pitch. From Bobby Moore toRio Ferdinand, Martin Peters to Frank Lampard and Trevor Brookingto Joe Cole to name just six – generation after generation hasproduced players regarded the world over.

Young players want to sign for West Ham United. They can see apath to the first team as demonstrated by these past Academygraduates and they can see they will get a football upbringing that issecond to none. Even those that do not make it are given agrounding that makes them more rounded as individuals and readyfor whatever life throws at them.

We are investing heavily in our coaches, support staff and facilitiesto make sure we develop this commitment to education andexcellence. This is reflected particularly at senior level too. Whenthey make it to the first team, we are doing all we can to ensure theAcademy products flourish in an environment that is among thebest that English football has to offer. The club is embracing newapproaches to coaching and sports science – utilising the best ofBritish and foreign innovation and expertise – and constantlymonitoring new developments and best practice.

Like the West Ham way that sees the club strive to complementlocal youngsters with foreign flair, this state of the art approachwould be nothing without the sheer hard work from all within theAcademy. Whatever the weather, the coaches are always out therehunting for the club’s next superstars. When they find them, wehave to make sure these stars of tomorrow are able to shine asbrightly as they can for West Ham United.

Scott DuxburyChief Executive – West Ham United

4

“I was eleven when I was scouted from school andSunday league football by West Ham and I certainlymade the right decision when I came here. The clubreally plays football the right way; it’s the way theclub has always played football. And if you are goodenough and when you are ready – at this footballclub you are given your chance.

“I was never pressured into anything that I didn’twant to do myself. I’d come home from a schoolgame and all my friends would be going over thepark playing and my dad would say: ‘Go on, go overthe park and play. You’re young, you’ve got to enjoyyour life first before you start getting bogged down.’That paid dividends. I wanted to come herebecause it was fun: the Academy made it into a funthing for a young kid.

“It’s not just the football either. Young players hereare brought up the right way: how to talk to people;how to be around people and how to play football.That’s the most important thing.

“We get taught how to handle the media, we gothrough the college system. I’m from West Ham,two minutes away from the ground, and I think thefans appreciate a local boy who has come throughand grew up the way they did.

“To be a top player is something you are born with,but you still have to really want it and plan onsucceeding. Lots of kids have the talent, but justdon’t to seem to want it badly enough. I’ve seenloads of them with massive talent and ability – butwith no heart. At the end they simply drop out.

“It’s still fun, being a Premiership player, butsometimes the pressure takes over and you can’tenjoy it because so much is riding on the threepoints. That said I still love my football; I want to playevery day.”

Mark NobleGraduate of the Youth Academy. Made 28 appearances for the first team inthe 2007/08 season.

Foreword


FOREWORD 5

The Aim of the AcademyThe aim of the West Ham United Youth Academy is to recruitthe best players possible, to nurture and develop themtechnically and physically using the best methods possible and to produce players good enough to play for the West Hamfirst team.

Whatever we do as coaches, scouts, sports scientists orphysios, it must be player-led. The needs of our players mustalways come first.

We must always remember the only objective of our Academyis to produce technically proficient, tactically aware andcreative players good enough to play first team football.

This will require dedication, hard work and no little skill onour part. We must all embrace new ideas and methods toachieve these aims. F.A. courses, the Internet, books and study visits are just some of the ways to improve ourknowledge and expertise.

We have a proud tradition to uphold and it is only by followingthe above principles and adding our own expertise will we becapable of adding our own mark and making things better forthe next generation of players. While setting targets for yourplayers, set yourself targets as well. Demand high standards ofbehaviour as well as performances. Always be punctual andabove all else give the players sessions that stretch themtactically, technically and physically – and make sure they want to come back for more!

Tony CarrYouth Academy Director

I would like to thank the many contributers to this book from the West Ham United Youth Academy. The drills, practices andcoaching ideas are drawn from all the coaches at the Academy. I would also like to thank Eamon Swift for help with the Warm Up & Cool Down section.

[JC] “When I was approached by the WestHam United Youth Academy I thought thisis fantastic. I knew it was known world-widefor bringing young players through.

“What immediately struck me was the bigdifference in terms of facilities (comparedwith Cambridge United) and the standardof opposition. I guess I was surprised reallyhow professional it was and what a greatclub it was.”

[JT] “During my time at the Academy youfirst take each year as it comes, but thenyou start to set yourself targets. The overallaim is to get into the first team and play forWest Ham United.

“There are lots of one-on-one sessions thathelp to identify your weaknesses andstrengths – what you’ve got to work on.Tony Carr and I set targets; Tony says wherehe wants you to get to and that helpsmotivate you – it’s something to aim for.”

[JC] “When you get the opportunity totrain with the first team it really is a massivething. You improve as a player; you arelearning things because there are so manygood players here. Playing with CraigBellamy who has played at the very toplevel for pretty much his whole career infootball makes you want to do somethingreally good to beat him, but it’s also thepotential to do something bad which keeps you on your toes, keeps you switched on in training.”

James Tomkins (left) is a product of theWest Ham Youth Academy and is a ball-playing central defender already involved inthe England Youth set up.

Jack Collison (right) made his seniorWales international debut at the age of 19.A tall central midfielder, Jack was spottedplaying for Cambridge United and offereda scholarship in the summer of 2005. Hemade his West Ham first team debut on 1 January 2008.


WH 006-011 Syllabus:WH 006-011 Syllabus 21/1/09 09:35 Page 6

The success of any academy will only be as good as therecruitment programme it adopts (its scouting network andoperation) followed by the facilities, the coaching and trainingprogramme and, finally, the coach.

As coaches we must regularly revisit previous work to remindplayers and to develop good habits in them. The more a playerpractises, the better a player he will become. It is a fallacy tothink players improve by playing lots of matches – improvementcomes from work and more work on the training pitch focusingon skills, technique and attitude. We must also encourage ourplayers to practise away from the academy environment bysetting ‘homework’.

The following coaching suggestions are just a guide to help youformulate a coaching programme. Use your own experience andideas to complement the syllabus.

Syllabus for the Academy


WEST HAM UNITED COACHING MANUAL8

SYLLABUS FOR THE ACADEMY

Academy syllabus 8-11 years

f At this early stage the forming of good habits throughguidance, repetition and practise.

f This is the ideal time to develop both left and rightside techniques.

f Practise in small groups of twos, threes and fours.

f Don’t overly complicate drills, techniques or games.

f Let the young player discover how to ‘play’ under yourguidance.

f Coach correct body shape when performingtechniques.

f Don’t over coach; they are too young to understandand absorb too much information.

f It is not too early for ‘combinaton play’ practice. Keepit simple and repetitive.

f Correct basic technical faults.

f As a general rule, the simpler the practice or drill thebetter and avoid putting too much into one coachingsession. Keep to one topic per session and onlyprogress when you are satisfied the playersunderstand what it is you are trying to get across. Atthe end of the session reinforce the topic in smallsided games.


f The development period (adolescence and growthspurts).

f Develop player understanding of the game withposition-specific practice.

f For defenders: heading skills (height and distance);being comfortable marking 1 v 1; distribution fromthe back (long and short); working in a unit (coveringresponsibilities); defending set plays.

f For midfielders: receiving the ball under pressure;turning and playing the ball forward; developing theability to see the whole pitch, i.e. when to pass long orshort; making forward runs; shooting from a distance;understanding defensive responsibilities.

f For forwards: turning and beating defenders;turning defenders without the ball; linking withmidfield support; heading for goal; quick finishing (1-2 touch); turning and shooting.

f Speed-agility-fitness and flexibility for all players.

f Decision making and awareness are vital componentsin all situations.

f Use realistic practice (opposed or unopposed).

f Combined passing moves – 3rd man runs, overlapsetc.

f Introduce organisation at set plays (basic).

f Competition becomes progressively tougher and thiscan be highlighted during training sessions.

f Coach players to create space.

f “Coaching the team” – organisation of the defence,midfield and forwards (attacking and defending).

f Less rotation and more positional selection for therole required.

f Improve players’ tactical understanding.

f Are we challenging the best players?


f Understanding their role within the team.

f Develop better tactical understanding.

f Improve specific weakness in individuals (one-to-onecoaching).

f Identify talented effective players and fast track them.

f Develop strong mental attitudes as games get morecompetitive.

f Encourage speed and urgency during training andmatch play.

f Don’t stop dribblers but encourage effectiveness.

f Match play effectiveness – transferring training intomatches.

f As player fitness and strength become evident,introduce the importance of both aspects to theplayers.

f Winning becomes important.

f Set players targets.


SYLLABUS FOR THE ACADEMY 9

ACTIVITY PAGE

A Beating Opponents

A1 Free dribbling 20

A2 Wrong-foot your opponent 21

A3 Beating your man without the ball 22

A4 Beat a player to score 23

A5 Dribble and shoot 24

A6 Dribble into end zone 25

B Short Passing

B1 Passing in sequence 28

B2 Pass And Move 1 29

B3 Pass And Move 2 29

B4 Check away and set 30

B5 Third man runs 31

B6 3 v 1 (keeping possession) 32

B7 Passing to a target to ‘score’ 33

B8 Overlapping 34

B9 Combined passing drill 35

B10 Passing under pressure (find the spare player) 36

C Ball Manipulation & Control

C1 Keep the ball up – one touch and bounce 40

C2 A simple step over 42

C3 Step over and accelerate 43

C4 Roll the ball with the sole of the foot (side to side) 44

C5 Controlling the ball with chest and thigh or foot 45

C6 Controlling the ball on the move 46

C7 Keep the ball up 47

D Turns & Shielding

D1 Outside or back foot turns 50

D2Two turn movement 51

D3 Pass-turn-pass relay 52

D4Turn and shoot 53

D5 Shielding: protecting the ball 54

D6 Shielding and turn 55


WEST HAM UNITED TRAINING MANUAL10

SYLLABUS FOR THE ACADEMY

E Combination Plays

E1 Diagonal and overlapping runs 58

E2Two in a circle 60

E3 Forwards combining 61

E4 One touch pass and move combinations 62

E5 Combination play in wide areas 63

F Long Passing & Crossing

F1 Chipping the ball 66

F2 Chip to a target 67

F3 Crossing drill 68

F4 Set up: hit long 69

F5 Crossing into the box 70

F6 Hitting space 71

G Defending

G1 Defending 1 v 1 in each half 74

G2 Closing down the opposition 75

G3 Going with runners 76

G4 Closing down the opposition/defending from the front 77

G5 Squeezing play 78

G6Two defenders v three forwards 79

G7 Marking on crosses 1 (1 v 1) 81

G8 Marking on crosses 2 (2 v 2) 82

G9 Attack vs defence (6 v 6) 83

G10 Defending as a team 84

H Heading

H1Throw to head 88

H2 Continuous heading 89

H3 Learning to jump 90

H4 Heading for goal 91

H5 Attacking the ball 92

H6 Heading for distance 93

H7 Defensive heading 94

H8 Heading in the box 95

ACTIVITY PAGE


SYLLABUS FOR THE ACADEMY 11

I Shooting

I1 Run and shoot 98

I2Touch and shoot 99

I3Turning and shooting 100

I4 Shield, dummy, turn and shoot 101

I5 Dribble, pass, shoot 102

I6Volleys 103

I7 Shooting under pressure 104

J Conditioned Games

J1 Below head height – 3 v 3 108

J2 One touch to finish 109

J3 Rebounds to score 110

J4 Only score from a cross and finish 111

J5 One touch in own half 112

J6 Man-to-man marking 113

J7 All in attacking half to score 114

J8 4 v 4 115

J9 Head – catch/throw – head 116

J10Three zone game (playing out from the back) 117

K Team Organisation

K1 Defending corners 11 v 11 122

K2 Defending corners 8 v 8 123

K3Team formations 11 v 11 (4-4-2) 124




ACTIVITY PAGE


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Warming up is something that is taken seriously throughout theprofessional game and even players as young as seven shouldgo through a thorough warm up. You can use any or all of thewarm up exercises described in this section for a period of10–15 minutes. Very young players usually need no more thanten minutes of warm up.

Using structured warm ups with all age groups prepares theplayers physically and mentally for the practices that follow. AtWest Ham we encourage and demand high concentration levelsduring the warm up period as we would of any other part oftraining. The warm up period can often set the tone for theensuing training session.

Warm up routines can be varied by using your imagination aslong as the content includes exercises that prepare the body forthe movements that will occur later on in the training session.

You do not need any special equipment or even balls to preparethe body for a football session. However, with our youngergroups of players we use balls and technique practice as muchas possible.

Warm Up & Cool Down


WARM UP & COOL DOWN


Both the warm up and cool down areessential parts of day-to-day trainingand match-day competition. The warmup ensures players are prepared bothphysically and mentally for the exercisethey are about to undertake and thecool down encourages the mostefficient and fastest recovery post-exercise. Both sets of activities have the potential to reduce the risk ofplayer injury.

An appropriate warm up brings about:

● Increased heart rate and coretemperature

● Decreased muscle and joint stiffness,increased range of motion andflexibility of muscles

● Increased nerve conduction rate and,therefore, faster contraction rates ofworking muscles

● Increased thermoregulatoryresponses

● Greater economy of movement dueto lowered viscous resistance (withinwarmed muscles)

● Increased blood flow to activemuscles (and consequent improvedenergy metabolism)

● Increased mental preparedness

● The warm up must be of sufficientintensity to prepare the body for theactivity it is about to perform, anddone in a progressive manner.

The cool down

Cooling down after intensive physicalactivity is as important as the warm up.Apart from the physical benefits, itprovides an opportunity for a mentaldebrief and the chance to start therecovery process from a fluid andnutritional perspective. A gentle jog,often linked with putting away theequipment that has been used duringthe training session and a few gentlestretches are all that are usually needed.Make sure the players cool down

effectively and shower after training, notjust for reasons of hygiene but becauseof the beneficial effect of warm wateron muscles. To avoid the players rushingoff after training nominate one of themore senior players to manage thecooling down session.

An appropriate cool down sessionresults in among other things:

● Reduced blood pooling in activemuscles (pooling can lead to a dizzy,sick feeling)

● Dissipation of waste products (e.g.lactic acid)

● Possible potential for reduceddelayed onset of muscle soreness(DOMS)

● Opportunity for stretching/flexibilitywork to relax muscles,maintain/restore optimum musclelength and range of movement

● Opportunity for replacing fluid andnutrition (e.g. milkshakes)

Hydration

Dehydration symptoms generallybecome noticeable after 2% of one’snormal water volume has been lost.Scientific studies show conclusively thatplayers will suffer a significant loss ofperformance, exhibit low endurance,elevated heart rate and bodytemperatures and the rapid onset offatigue when they become dehydrated.

To avoid the consequences ofdehydration we encourage the playersto drink frequently with the aim of eachplayer consuming between 2 and 4litres of water per day.

In the hour before either a trainingsession or match, players areencouraged to drink 3-500ml of sportsdrink. During training and matchessmall, frequent sips are encouraged.

At half time during matches players areagain encouraged to drink up to 500mlof fluid. After the match they are

encouraged to drink up to one litreover the next one to two hours.However, it should be noted that allplayers differ and these are suggestedguidelines; actual amounts will varydepending on how much fluid a playerfeels comfortable consuming.

Re-hydration

If the fluids lost through sweating arenot replaced the body becomesdehydrated in response to which aperson will feel thirsty and the bodywill try to conserve the fluid that it hasleft, reducing the production of sweatand urine. The effects of dehydrationare cumulative and can have a knock-on effect with regard to a player’smood, concentration and fatigue levelsthat may impact on his perfomanceduring subsequent football sessions - i.e.the next day.

Thirst is not a good indicator ofdehydration. By the time you feel thirstythe body is almost certainly dehydratedand a player’s performance is beginningto suffer.

Monitoring the amount of urineexcreted and its colour can provide anindication of an individual’s hydrationstatus. Generally, the darker the colourof the urine and the less an individualurinates, the more dehydrated they are.Ideally, the urine should be a pale strawcolour. However, please be aware thatother factors can also affect urineproduction and colour. Urine colour isonly intended as a general guide tolevels of hydration.

Warm up and cool down protocols


WARM UP AND COOL DOWN 15

1. Jogging(forwards/backwards)Start with a slow and steady pace that canbe speeded up as the intensity of the warmup increases. The motion, both forwardsand backwards, is designed to encourageblood flow to the working muscles andraise core temperature.

3. Hamstring heel-buttock flickAn exaggerated running technique: theopposite arm drives and the heel flicks thebuttocks simultaneously whilst maintaininggood upright posture to encourageactivation of the hamstrings and stretchingof the quads.

2. Skipping (+ upperbody rotations orchest/shoulder mobility)A rhythmic skipping motion with theweight light on the forefoot and goodposture. Can progress to include upperbody motions including upper bodyrotations or alternate arm raise straight infront or across the body to encourageactivation of the calf muscles and mobilityaround the ankle joint.

4. Hip flexor knee driveAn exaggerated running technique: theopposite arm drives and the knee drivessimultaneously, whilst maintaining goodupright posture to encourage activation ofthe hip flexors and stretching of the glutealmuscles plus mobility of the hip joint.

5. High knee out driveA skipping type motion with knees turnedout to the side as apposed to in front toencourage mobility of the hip joint andaction in the inner thighs.

6. High knee in driveA skipping type motion with knees drivingup and in across the body to encouragemobility of the hip joint and action in theouter thighs and gluteals.



WARM UP & COOL DOWN

7. Side shufflePlayers perform a sideways shuffle keepingtheir hips square with a lowered bodyposition and ensuring their feet don’t touchin the middle when shuffling to encouragequick efficient movement laterally and toactivate abductor, adductor and glutealmuscles.

9. Hurdle walkThis can be performed in slow controlledmanner – walking or rhythmically on themove, either using high hurdles orimaginary hurdles! The knee is raised infront and leg straightened out steppingover a hurdle. With the heel tucked underbuttock, the trail leg is turned out to theside raised high and closed back in clearingthe hurdle. Repeat on other leg toencourage mobility of the hip joint andwork hip flexor, groin, hamstring and gluteal muscles.

8. Upper body/lowerbody twistsPlayers make quick short contacts with thefloor as the lead foot comes across thefront of the body rotating the lower body,then the trail leg comes in front and doesthe same and so on in rhythmic fashion.Simultaneously the upper body, with armsout in front, is working in the oppositedirection. To encourage hip and trunkaction and mobility.

10. Opening and closingthe groinAs the players jog forwards, the knee isbrought up to the front of the body andover to the side. Make sure both sides areworked.

12. Forward and acrossthe body leg swingsWhilst on the ball of the foot the oppositeleg is taken as far back as possible andkicked through as high as possible both infront of and across the body to encourageincreased range of motion and mobilityaround the hip and to work the hamstringsand gluteals dynamically.

11. Lunge and rotateThe forward walking player lunges taking alarge step in front so that the front andback legs are at 90° angles. This will workthe ankle and knee proprioceptors and alsowork the quads and hip flexors. Controlledupper body rotations to either side whenin the deepest part of the lunge encourageactivity of trunk stabilisers.


WARM UP AND COOL DOWN 17

13. Simulated side footvolleyPlayers bring their right foot across thebody in a rhythmic fashion to simulate sidefoot volleys to the left and vice versa.Prepares the body for football-specificmovements.

15. Quick feetBursts of rapid foot contact with the floor,small quick steps pumping the arms andknees to encourage total body, highintensity activity.

14. Jumping and landingtechniquePlayers using single leg take offs (which areencouraged by coaches when heading theball) are attempted off both feetalternatively. Proper landing techniqueshould be observed with the hips back(rather than knees forward) to absorbimpact. Promotes activation of ankle, kneeand hip stabilisers.

16. Curved runsSnake like curves are run with goodrunning technique to encourage readinessfor changes of direction and work thehamstrings, the inner and outer thighsparticularly.

18. SprintingProgressing through the previous exercisesthe intensity increases and the warm-up iscompleted with maximum paced running inmultiple directions prior to practice ormatch situation to ensure body is fullyprepared for high intensity action.

17. Cut and drive offZig-zag patterns are run with good runningtechnique, where bodyweight is planted onouter leg, impact is absorbed by sinking intothe position slightly, dropping the shoulderand then transferred quickly and strongly inthe opposite direction. The opposite legthen becomes the outer leg and performsthe same action to encourage readiness forquick efficient changes of direction.


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The skill of beating an opponent is probably the most importantskill of all; the coach should encourage at every opportunity eventhe youngest players to ‘take players on’, especially when they areconfronted with a 1 v 1 situation.

Try to build up the confidence of your players to go past theopposition – even youngsters of five to six-years-old shouldexperiment with a trick or two to help wrong foot an opponent.Ultimately players can be taught the right attitude and developsufficient belief in themselves to routinely takes oppositionplayers on in a game situation.

The drills and practices in this section are about developing thetechniques and skills needed to beat defenders. As coach youmust judge when to increase the tempo and degree of difficultyof each session.

As the players develop the skills and confidence move on tocoaching when and where it is appropriate to try to beat ‘hisman’ or to pass the ball. This is the vital skill of correct decision-making, but begin by getting your players to the point wherethey are confident in their skills and technically comfortable in all1 v 1 situations.

Section A

Beating Opponents

A1 Free dribbling / A2 Wrong-foot your opponentA3 Beating your man without the ball / A4 Beat a player to scoreA5 Dribble and shoot / A6 Dribble into end zone


WEST HAM UNITED COACHING MANUAL

Coaching points: Players must keep the ball within playingdistance when running with the ball using theoutside of the foot to move the ball. Encourageplayers to go left and right.

Progression: Now have four players with ballsand two without who will act as defenders.Throughout the drill the two ‘defenders’ try totake the ball from the four ‘attackers’. Beginpassively increasing pressure on the ‘attackers’as the players’ skill and confidence grow. Allplayers take turns to become defenders.

Help to develop decision-making by askingplayers to either ‘beat’ the opponent with adribble or to pass to a free player.

You will need to add two free players onopposite sides of the area for this option.

A1 Free dribblingPreparation: Any number of players. The illustrationshows six players in an area of 20 x 20yds and a ballfor each player.

Description: Each player with a ball at his feet runsfreely avoiding contact with other players or balls.

The coach should demonstrate and teach turns, smallchanges of pace and tricks – that is a body movementor ball manipulation to wrong foot an opponent.

It is important to emphasise a change of pace forabout five yards after beating an opponent.

20

SECTION A BEATING OPPONENTS


BEATING OPPONENTS

A2 Wrong-foot your opponentPreparation: Pairs of players both with a ball facingeach other 10 yards apart.

Description: The players run towards each other ata gentle pace and on one player’s signal, ‘yes’, they bothperform the same drill: step over with the right footand push away with the left foot. You should note thatif they mistakenly perform ‘opposite’ step-overs theywill end up running into each other.

21

Once both players have completed the right foot step-over, they turn round and, making sure they are 10 yards apart, repeat the drill. As proficiency growsthe better players will begin to add speed.

At this point we can introduce the double step-over:the technique is much the same: the player steps overwith his left foot, but instead of pushing away with theright foot he then steps over with his right foot, comesback and pushes away with his left foot.



Coaching pointsOnce the drill is underway try to get theplayers to develop a good quick tempo. Theplayer running with the ball must use theoutside of his foot when moving. Theexecution of the wall pass must be donequickly with the ‘wall’ player using only onetouch. Speed and accuracy, weight of pass andsurprise are the key coaching points.

Once the players are comfortable performingthe skills, encourage them to feint to play thewall pass and beat the mannequin with the ball.Disguise is a key skill here.

A3 Beating your man withoutthe ball (using a wall pass)Preparation: This drill uses six players and amannequin. The opposing players begin 20-25yds apart.

Description: Player A runs with the ball up to themannequin and passes to player B using the outside ofthe right foot or the inside of the left. Player B passesfirst time, using the inside of his right foot, behind themannequin back to player A who has continued hisrun. Player A now passes the ball to player C whorepeats the drill in the opposite direction using player D as the ‘wall’.


A

B

C

D


Coaching pointsPlayers must choose the right time to beat anopponent by either executing the wall pass orquickly dribbling past him. Let the players makethe choices and encourage and praise success.

Progression: Take out the floaters and play 4 v 4 and make the area bigger 40 x 40yds.Insist on a good quick tempo and rest theplayers every three or four minutes.

This practice highlights the importance ofdecision-making, which is key to most aspectsof the game: when to dribble, when to pass and so on.

A4 Beat a player to scorePreparation: You will need an area of 30 x 40yds,eight players who are set up as 3 v 3 with two‘floaters’. The ‘floaters’ are players who play forwhichever team is in possession of the ball.

Description: This practice encourages each team toeither dribble past or use a wall pass to beat anopponent to ‘score a point’. The team in possession ofthe ball can use the two floating players effectivelymaking it 5 v 3.

BEATING OPPONENTS 23



A5 Dribble and shootPreparation: Ten to twelve players plus a goalkeepersituated in half of a pitch and penalty area set up asshown. Section off the central area with cones.

Description: Player A (defender) passes the ball toplayer B (attacker) then follows the ball and closesdown player B’s space, trying to stop player B getting ashot at goal. Player B meanwhile tries to beat player Aand shoot to score.

Coaching pointsThe attacking player should try to wrong foothis opponent: slow him down; wrong foot himwith a feint or a change of pace. He shouldmove forward quickly and get a shot on goal assoon as he is in range. Quick feet movements,change of pace and speed on the ball are thedesired skills.

Don’t forget to coach the player’s shot at goal.‘Hit the target’, ‘make the goalkeeper work’ arethe essential end product.


A

B


Coaching pointsThere are no limits on the number of touchesof the ball a player is allowed (with theexception of the side players as noted left).Player decision-making will now becomeobvious to the coach: when should I dribble,pass and so on? Encourage positive forwardplay; emphasise and praise creativity.

A6 Dribble into end zonePreparation: 12 players and an area of 40 x 10yds including two end zones of five yards each.

Description: The set up is as shown with the players4 v 4 and four side players who are allowed only onetouch (although you can give two touches for the 7-11 year olds)

The object of the game is for players in possession todribble or play a wall pass in order to run into the endzone with the ball – thus scoring a point. A player musthave control of the ball when he enters the end zoneto score the point. Defenders can only enter the endzone to track a forward player.

Interchange the three groups of four, with one team‘resting’ on the sidelines.

BEATING OPPONENTS 25


WH 026-037 Section B:WH 026-037 Section B 4/2/09 09:28 Page 26

In its essence short passing is exactly what the game of footballis all about, and drills and practices to improve the skill of passingthe ball are widespread and relevant to all levels of the game.

It is vitally important for the development of young players (5-11 years old) that they are coached to play a short passinggame – that is up to 20 yards.

The longer pass comes later and the players are not physicallycapable at a young age in any case!

Players must be taught how to receive a pass, how to get it out of their feet and how to pass it with the right part of the foot. Then, eventually, what to do after they have passedthe ball.

So we build up to ‘receive, pass and move’. Then to pass and move.

Movement is a key element in effective team play and with quick accurate passing combined with intelligent well timed runs (movement) we are on our way to producing effectiveintelligent players.

Practice is the key, and challenging meaningful progression is a must.

Section B

Short Passing

B1 Passing in sequence / B2 Pass And Move 1B3 Pass And Move 2 / B4 Check away and setB5Third man runs / B6 3 v 1 (keeping possession)B7 Passing to a target to ‘score’ / B8 OverlappingB9 Combined passing drill B10 Passing under pressure (find the spare player)



Coaching pointsAll players are on the move and receive theball on the half turn. They must look to facetheir target player. The receiving player shouldmove to support the passing player. Playersmust communicate with each other.

Encourage good movement and support anddon’t let the players get too close to each other.

B1 Passing in sequencePreparation: Six to ten players in an area of 20 x 20yds.

Description: The players are numbered one to six(or up to ten) and must pass the ball in sequence: oneto two; two to three; three to four and so on.

With very young players (5-8 year olds) allow as manytouches as they need, but as they improve and becomemore efficient try to progress to two touch andeventually one touch with the older players (13+) oryounger if they are technically capable enough – theplayers will guide you!

28

SECTION B SHORT PASSING

1

2

3

4

5

6


SHORT PASSING 29

B3 Pass and move 2Preparation: Eight to ten players in an area 20 yards across.

Description: Player A starts in the middle with theball and passes to player B and immediately runs to theposition occupied by player C who on seeing player Aapproach runs quickly into the middle to receive playerB’s returning pass.

Player C now repeats the sequence by immediatelypassing the ball to another outside player and runningto another player’s position who runs (at pace) intothe middle to receive and play the returned pass.

Coaching pointsAll players are allowed two touches. Demandgood communication between players andwatch the timing and accuracy of the passes,encouraging the use of the inside of the footpassing. All the players must concentrate andstay alert and the ball should not stop moving.

A

B

C

A

B

C

Coaching pointsLook for and encourage good first touch, gettingthe ball out of the feet and the weight andaccuracy of the pass. Every player should be ontheir toes anticipating a pass. Make the drill flowby insisting that the ball does not stop moving.

When using two touches, encourage the outsidereceiving player to get the ball out of his feet tothe side to avoid the middle player who isrunning towards him.

B2 Pass and move 1Preparation: Six to eight players in a circular area of15-20 yards across.

Description: Player A passes to player B, player Bpasses to player C. Player A follows his pass into thecentre of the circle and player B likewise follows hispass to the player C’s position who passes the ball to player A (now at the centre of the circle). Thesequence is now repeated.

Allow two touches on the outside and in the middlefor 6-9 year olds, progressing to two touches on theoutside to one touch in the middle then one touch all round.



Coaching pointsTiming is the key for this drill to become asmooth continuous sequence and you shouldexpect to spend time with the players offeringencouragement as they perfect it.

Get the players to set the ball back using theinside of the back foot. Two touches may beneeded to get it going with younger players(under 11s), but try to move to one touch asquickly as the players understanding of the drilland developing skill levels allow.

B4 Check away and setPreparation: Six to eight players in a circle 20 yards across.

Description: Player A starts with the ball. Player Bchecks away one yard and comes back to receiveplayer A’s pass. Player B ‘sets’ the ball back to player Awho then comes forward to support player B. Player Athen passes to player C who has checked away andcome short as player A passes him the ball. This timeplayer B turns to support player C, player C ‘sets’ theball back to player B who passes to player D who now repeats the sequence of ‘check away and set theball up’.


A

B

C

D


SHORT PASSING 31

Coaching pointsAfter player A’s first pass, player C mustreceive the ball with the back foot (in this casehis right foot) and pass first time to player B.Player B must support quickly and pass firsttime into players A’s run. The pass must beweighted so the ball arrives just in front ofplayer A’s run.

The pass and move sequence must beperformed quickly to capitalise on the elementof surprise of players A’s ‘third man run’.

Over the years this practice and type of movehas become synonymous with the West Hamstyle of forward movment and quick accurate passing.

B5Third man runsPreparation: An area of half a pitch with four or fivegroups of three players.

Description: Player A starts with the ball. Players Band C make the triangle with player C at the apex.Player A passes the ball to player C who has checkedaway and come short.

Player C sets the ball back to player B who has givenplayer C support by calling for the pass and making anangle. Player A makes a forward run beyond player Cand player B passes first time into player A’s run.

Player A receives the ball and passes back to player Bto repeat the process with player A at the apex of the triangle.

Progress to player A passing square to player B. Bpasses first time to C. B runs across C to support as Amakes his forward run behind B and beyond C. PlayerB passes into A’s run.

A

B

C

A



B6 3 v 1 (keeping possession)Preparation: Mark up an area 15 x 10yds. Threeplayers with the ball and one defensive player to upsetthe rhythm.

Description: The ‘attacking’ players pass the ball toeach other coping with the pressure of a defendertrying to disrupt the rhythm of their passing. The‘defending’ player needs to make realistic challenges,either intercepting the ball as it is passed or tackling theplayer with the ball.

With a defender snapping at the passing player’s heels,disguising the nature of the intended pass and itseventual accuracy and weight becomes increasingly important.

When an ‘attacking’ player loses possession of the ball,he becomes the defending player who as the sole‘defender’ will have to chase the ball (hard work!) – sothere is an incentive to become a more skilful passer ofthe ball. The ‘attackers’ should try to build up asequence of passes.

If the defending player fails to win the ball, there mustbe a time limit (usually two minutes or twenty passes)otherwise he will just run himself into the ground and soon lose all enthusiasm for the drill.

Coaching pointsPlayers in the early stages of theirdevelopment may need several touches tocontrol and pass the ball successfully, so givethem the freedom to feel comfortable on theball. More experienced players should belimited to one or two touches and the areacan be reduced to 10 x 10yds.

While the ‘attackers’ are trying to build uptheir sequence of passes, it is the defender’sposition that largely determines how and towhere the ball is passed.

Awareness of other players’ movement, quickfeet, quick decision-making and accuracy ofpassing are the keys to success.

Remember to change the defender regularly ifhe can’t win the ball.

Progress to 4 v 2 and 5 v 3 for older or moreproficient players increasing the size of theplaying area as appropriate.



SHORT PASSING 33

Coaching pointsIt is important that you set skill-level standardsfor this drill; for example make it clear that for agoal to be given, the end-zone target player mustreceive and control the final ball. In other wordsthe final ball must be an accurate pass, not aloose pass making control difficult.

This drill imposes a game form on a passing drilland is designed to develop movement andimprove player awareness.

Conditions can be applied to the drill: all passesmust be below head height so that the attackershave to play around and through defendersrather than over them and, if the players are of agood standard, limit the amount of touches eachattacking player is allowed and only allow a goalwhen passed from the attacking half of the pitchto encourage them to pass from defence to attack.

B7 Passing to a target to ‘score’Preparation: Mark out an area of 15 x 40yds.Organise groups of eight players. There will be onetarget player at each end line of the area and threegroups of two players identified by bibs: two red, twoyellow and two white.

Description: Before the drill starts designate twodefending players – in the diagram we’ve shown themas red-bibbed players. The coach also determineswhich target end the two red-bibbed players aredefending (in the diagram they are defending the areato the right).

The four attacking players (two in yellow and two inwhite bibs) attempt to pass the ball through andaround the two defenders into the target player at theright hand end of the area. Each time the attackers getthe ball into the target player they ‘score’ a goal.

The ball is then returned to the four attackers whobegin a fresh set of passes aiming to ‘score’ at theopposite end this time.

Set a time limit of approximately two minutes andcount the goals the attacking players have ‘scored’.(The defenders might have a target of say four ‘goals’against them. The fewer the better.)

Now swap the players over so that the two yellow-bibbed players become the defenders and start thestopwatch again. Keep a record of how many ‘goals’each pair of defenders concedes. With a ratio of fourattackers to two defenders, there should be a fairly

high rate of successful passing play and ‘scoring’. Addanother ‘defending’ player as they become moreproficient.




Coaching pointsYounger players should start slowly using twotouches. All passes must be made with theinside of the foot: when passing right to leftplayer must use the inside of the right foot;when passing left to right they use the inside ofthe left foot.

The weight and accuracy of the pass are vital.Tell players to sprint quickly into the nextposition after every pass – pass the ball and accelerate.

B8 OverlappingDescription: Three players stand in a slight arc tenyards across. The middle player 1 passes to the playeron his right (player 2), player 1 follows the pass runningbehind player 2 on the overlap.

Player 2 collects the ball, passes the ball left in front ofplayer 3. Player 2 now overlaps around the back ofplayer 3 who continues the sequence by passing toplayer 1 who has become the wide player.

Increase the tempo and ultimately aim for your playersto perform the practice using one touch.

1

2

3

1

1

3

2

3


SHORT PASSING 35

Coaching pointsThe timing, weight and accuracy of every passare essential. Middle players (B and C) receivethe ball on the half turn and pass using theback foot.

The practice should develop into a quick andaccurate exchange of passes. Build it up slowlyfor younger players.

The practice is repetitive, so it’s important toset high standards in order to develop good habits.

B9 Combined passing drill (set up and support)Preparation: Six to eight players separated by 30yards. You will need cones to mark player positions.

Description: Player A pushes the ball away andpasses to player B, who has checked away and comeshort. Player B sets the ball back to player A, who hasmoved to support on the opposite angle.

Player A now passes first time to player C, who haschecked away and come short. Player C passes firsttime to player B, who has turned to support C.

Player B passes the ball to the end man player D. PlayerB follows his pass and joins the end of the queue.Player A takes up players B’s original position and thesequence is repeated with player D passing to player C.

A

B

C

D




Coaching PointsPlayers A, B and C must stay apart (at least fiveyards) and player D must stay at least ten yards away.

Accuracy and weight of pass are the key, withquick movement of the feet to changedirection of the ball.

Each player should be given 12 attempts to findthe spare man. The coach keeps a record ofhow many times the working player misses thetarget player. Speed it up as techniqueimproves. Slow it down for the very young.

B10 Passing under pressure (find the spare player)Preparation: You will need an area of 10 x 10yds foreach group of four players with two balls.

Description: The set up is as shown. Players A and Chave the balls and player D is the working player.

Player A passes to player D who finds the spare playerwith his pass (player B). As soon as player D has passedthe ball, player C passes to player D who finds thespare player (A) with his pass.

A BC

D


SHORT PASSING 37


WH 038-047 Section C:WH 038-047 Section C 21/1/09 09:58 Page 38

Mastery of the ball is at the very heart of the game. The skill tomake the ball do what you want it to do, to be able to place itexactly where you want it to go, to be comfortable with it inyour possession; these are the foundations of the game and thebasic building blocks for future successful players.

To master the ball will take hours of practice and should beginat the earliest possible age. Encourage young players to watchthe great masters of the ball and copy them on the training pitch.

That said, practice at coaching sessions alone will not perfect the art of ball mastery; you must send players home with‘homework’. Challenge them to improve their ball juggling; learna trick or a new skill and make them demonstrate it at the nexttraining session. It is important to instil in players responsibilityfor their own development.

Once they have mastered the ball it will never leave them, so wemust start young and persevere through repetition.

Section C

Ball Manipulation & Control

C1 Keep the ball up – one touch and bounceC2 A simple step over / C3 Step over and accelerateC4 Roll the ball with the sole of the foot (side to side)C5 Controlling the ball with chest and thigh or footC6 Controlling the ball on the move / C7 Keep the ball up



C1 Keep the ball up – onetouch and bouncePreparation: A ball for each player of which therecan be any number and any open space.

Description: This is all about improving your players’touch and developing their feel for the ball. Everyplayer should improve his ability to sustain this drillover the course of the season.

Each player starts with the ball in his hands and throwsit into the air about head height before letting itbounce. As it does so he tries to kick the ball in the airagain to about waist height, lets it bounce again andrepeats the kick.

40

SECTION C BALL MANIPULATION & CONTROL

Players should use either foot – at this stage we simplywant them to develop a touch and a feel for the ball.

The ball should go straight up in line with the player’sbody (not to the side), and climb no higher than the head.

Coaching pointsThe whole squad can take part in this drill atthe same time, and the coach should offerencouragement and advice as necessary. Don’tbe afraid to stop the session if you identify acommon mistake like kicking the ball ‘offline’ orkicking it too high or low.


BALL MANIPULATION & CONTROL 41

Progress to – one bounce and continuous with one foot

Again each player starts with the ball in his hands,throws the ball into the air about head height and letsit bounce.

This time before the ball drops to the floor for thesecond time, the player tries to get several touches onthe ball using one foot.

Once the player loses control of the ball, he picks it upand repeats the exercise using his other foot.

Then – keep up continuously with both feet

Repeat the start of the drill, but this time players mustkeep the ball up continuously alternating the right andleft foot.

Here we are looking for the player to get as manycontinuous touches of the ball as possible and if, fromtime to time, the player has to play the ball by usingthe same foot, don’t stop the drill – as long as theweaker foot is being used throughout the drill.

Coaching pointsThe player should be relaxed and impart justenough energy so the ball reaches no higherthan chest height. The arms and shouldersshould be relaxed with the arms out to theside to aid balance.

With enough repetition players will soondevelop a ‘feel’ for and a good ‘soft’ touch onthe ball. Encourage the players to count thenumber of touches before the ball bounces.




C2 A simple step overPreparation: Any open space and a ball for each player.

Description: Any number of players. The ball isplaced on the ground in front of the player who beginsby bouncing on his toes.

The player throws the outside of his right foot overthe ball and places it firmly just beyond the ball. All hisweight is now on his right foot and side.

The shift in bodyweight means that the left foot isreleased allowing the outside of the left foot to pushthe ball to the left and into space.

During this practice we do not require the players tomove with the ball but to feel and understand themechanics of what their feet are doing.

The player retrieves his ball and repeats the practiceseveral times. Now swap feet and repeat several more times. Repetition is the key.

Coaching pointsA static exercise designed to help players sorttheir feet out, which must be practised on bothsides – remembering that one side is alwaysgoing to be favoured and even something assimple as this will feel a little awkward on theweaker foot.

You must encourage players to persevere.


Coaching pointsIt is important that at the point the playermakes his ‘move’ he performs it with speedand precision.

Drills and exercises that simulate feints,dummies and turns need to be practisedrepeatedly and often so that these essentialtechniques and skills become habit, and areused instinctively and effectively in matches.

Move up to the mannequin slowly using theinside of the foot. Once the player makes hismove by ‘stepping over the ball’, he movesaway with speed pushing the ball with theoutside of the foot.

C3 Step over and acceleratePreparation: Groups of three players and amannequin. Two players start ten yards from themannequin with the ball and the third player is tenyards on the opposite side of the mannequin.

Description: We now add movement to theprevious practice. The performing player moves the balltowards the mannequin to about one yard from it andperforms a step over movement as described in C2.The difference here is that we ask the player toaccelerate past the mannequin before passing to theend player who now repeates the drill.





Coaching pointsEncourage a feel for the ball, which means lighttouches and good balance. Make sure eachplayer demonstrates the technique to you ineach direction and increase the speed of theexercise as the players’ competence improves.Quick feet, speed and control of the ball arethe key elements of the skill.

The ball must always be within playabledistance. Portuguese and Manchester Unitedplayer Ronaldo is an example of player whohas totally mastery of this type of ball skill.

C4 Roll the ball with the sole ofthe foot (side to side)Preparation: Any number of players in an openspace with two cones set 10 yards apart.

Description: Each player uses the sole of their rightfoot to manipulate the ball left across his body. Hecontinues to perform the technique with his right footuntil he reaches the left cone.

The player immediately repeats the exercise in theopposite direction using his left foot to roll the ballacross his body towards the right cone.

Players should progress to a dummy roll of the footover the ball and using the outside of the same foot,pushing the ball in the opposite direction – that isdummy roll of the foot to go left and plant the footover the ball and go right.


C5 Controlling the ball withchest and thigh or footPreparation: Groups of three players set up in atriangle formation 10 yards apart or closer with oneball between each group of three players.

Description: Player A throws the ball underarm,two-handed to player B. As he does so he shouts outthe name of the part of the body that he wants thereceiving player to control the ball – ‘thigh!’, ‘chest!’ andso on – carefully aiming his throw.

Assuming it is the thigh in this case, player B offers histhigh to the ball and, as the ball hits that surface,withdraws it a fraction, cushioning the ball, whichshould now be left playable for a pass to player C.Player C picks the ball up and, repeating the drill,throws underarm to player A.

Coaching pointsThe underarm throw ought to guaranteeconsistency of service to the controlling playerwho, in turn, must control the ball and leave itplayable. As each player attempts to controlthe ball, he should try to drop it to the sideand in the direction of the next pass. The finishof the sequence is a firm accurate pass to thereceiving player.

Each player performs ten practice controls foreach area of the body.

Alternatively, for the youngest players thecoach should dictate which part of the bodythe receiving player must use, and make thetriangle of players smaller.

Increase the difficulty as players improve,putting pressure on the performing player byspeeding the practice up. Your players’improved performance will let you know whenyou can challenge them by moving themfurther apart and using kicking skills in place of throws.


A

B

C




Coaching pointsThe movement brings into play timing and theneed to judge distance. The receiving playergets his body in line with the throw of the ball.Server and receiver should not get too closeto each other when the ball is thrownotherwise it will look messy and the ball willbe uncontrollable; nine or ten yards is theminimum distance needed from the server tothe receiver.

The drill can be progressed by asking theplayers to run randomly to any server and byadding more players.

C6 Controlling the ball on the movePreparation: Groups of six players with three ballsin an area 20 x 20yds.

Description: Three players act as servers with ballsin their hands while the other three players performthe controlling technique.

The servers remain stationary as the others jog aroundthe area. The receivers, when they are ten or so yardsaway from a server with a ball, make eye contact andshout for the ball.

The ball is served with an underarm throw to thereceiver’s body – at random to the thigh area, the footor the chest. The receiving player must control the balland return it to the server’s hands; he keeps joggingaround the area and receives a ball from anotherplayer.

Swap servers and receivers after two minutes.



C7 Keep the ball upPreparation: Six to eight players in an area 10 x 10yds.

Description: Player A starts with the ball and gentlyvolleys the ball to player B. B controls the ball with anysurface and, before it touches the ground, volleys toplayer C.

C must control the ball before it hits the ground andpass it to any other player.

Coaching pointsAll the players must be fully alert and on theirtoes throughout the exercise as the passes areentirely random. Each group of players countshow many passes are completed before theball touches the ground.

Players will need a good first touch and make acontrolled pass to the next player. There areno limits on touches, but initially set aminimum of two and later a maximum of twofor the more proficient players.

A

B

C


WH 048-055 Section D:WH 048-055 Section D 20/2/09 15:05 Page 48

Turning and shielding the ball are skills used predominately byforwards and midfield players; turning defenders when inpossession of the ball is an important technique for all players -but is particularly valuable in the attacking third of the pitch,allowing attacking players to make penetrating passes or shootat goal.

A player’s awareness of the opposition’s marking is essentialwhen he makes a decision whether to turn, shield or pass theball. The wrong decision can surrender possession in vital areasand put the opposition on the attack.

Continual practice, as with all techniques, is vital to develop these skills, but so is player awareness of the situation on thepitch and an ability to act quickly. Both will help a player make the right decisions.

The coach must allow the players to develop these skills andshould encourage turns and shielding, especially in the attackingthird of the pitch.

Trial and error combined with regular practice and encourage-ment by the coach will help players develop the confidence andskill to master these techniques.

Section D

Turns and Shielding

D1 Outside or back foot turns / D2Two turn movementD3 Pass-turn-pass relay / D4Turn and shootD5 Shielding: protecting the ball / D6 Shielding and turn


50

SECTION D TURNS AND SHIELDING

Coaching points Particular attention must be paid to thetechnique of the turns. Players must checkaway before coming short to receive the pass;open the body on the half turn and performthe turn with the inside of the right foot (theleft foot if practising in the opposite direction).

Ensure that players keep their turns as ‘tight’ as possible using as little time and space as possible.

The same practice can be used to perform aturn with the outside of the foot, in which casethe technique differs as follows: the receivingplayer steps outside the line of the pass and byusing the outside of the foot rolls the ball tothe side and behind so that he ends up facingthe next receiving players. This means that inboth techniques all the player’s weight is onthe non-kicking foot.

D1 Outside or back foot turnsPreparation: Seven or more players in an area of20 x 20yds + cones.

Description: Player A starts by passing to player B, Bturns with the ball to face player C and passes the ballto him. Player C turns to face player D and passes theball to him. Player D passes to player E who repeatsthe sequence passing to player F. All players followtheir passes and the practice continues by repetition.

Use markers to help keep the shape of the drill.

WEST HAM UNITED TRAINING MANUAL

A

B

C

D

E

F


TURNS AND SHIELDING 51

Coaching pointsDepending on age and skill levels of the players,the turns should be performed quickly andefficiently. Players should keep the turns tightand the ball must always be under control.

Don’t use more than six players in the circleotherwise there will be too much inactivitywithin the group.

D2Two turn movementPreparation: Six players in an area of 30 x 30yds.

Description: Player A passes to player B (who is inthe centre of the circle). Player B comes to meet thepass and performs a turn and runs five to ten yardswith the ball. Player B then performs another turn ofhis choice and passes the ball out to player C. Player Ahas become the performing player after passing toplayer B. B follows his pass and joins the outer circle.

A

B

C

B




Coaching pointsThe coach should watch and appraise theapproach to the ball by the receiving player andencourage early choice of the type of turn heperforms. Players must exhibit quick feet tomanipulate the ball for correct placement.

Increase speed as confidence and skill levels permit.

D3 Pass-turn-pass relayPreparation: Groups of four players in an area of 20 x 20yds with a mannequin.

Description: Player A passes to player B, B performsa turn of the coach’s choice (i.e. back foot, outside offoot or free choice of the player).

Following his turn player B passes to player C. Ccontrols the ball and passes into player A who hastaken player B’s place. The routine is repeated.

A

B

C



Coaching pointsAllow a maximum of three touchesprogressing to two touch (turn and shoot) asskill levels improve and permit. In a matchsituation in and around the penalty area is themost crowded part of the pitch – so the speedand efficiency of a player’s turn is crucial tosuccess in this area.

D4Turn and shootPreparation: Six or more players in an area madeup of half a pitch including the penalty area. You willneed two mannequins.

Description: Player A passes diagonally to player Bwho turns and shoots. Player A replaces player B. Bjoins the line. Player C repeats by passing to player D.

Mannequins are used to mimic defenders and for theplayers to manoeuvre around.

A

B

C

D




Coaching pointsThe performing player must get his bodybetween the defender and the ball, controllingand moving the ball with the foot furthest fromthe defender. The shielding players must try to‘feel’ the defender with his body so that he canreact to the defender’s attempts to win the ball.

Increase the time the performing player has to protect the ball up to a maximum of 30 seconds.

Be careful in this type of practice not tomismatch the players physically.

D5 Shielding: protecting the ballPreparation: Players in groups of three in areas of10 x 10yds.

Description: The set up is as shown with player B asthe performing player, player C as the defender andplayer A as the server.

Player A passes to B who shields the ball away fromdefender C.

After player B has successfully shielded the ball for 20seconds, player C becomes the server, B becomes thedefender and A becomes the performing player. Thepractice is repeated.

A

B

C



Coaching pointsThe shielding player must keep his bodybetween the defender and the ball while tryingto ‘feel’ his opponent. He must choose theright moment to turn and run the ball into theend area. A player’s instinct plays a part andquick movement and a change of pace to getaway are key elements. Encourage the playersto be creative and to develop their ‘own’ turns.

D6 Shielding and turnPreparation: Players in groups of four in areas of 30 x 10yds.

Description: The set up is as shown. Player A passesto player B who is marked by player C. Player Bprotects the ball using shielding technique and thentries to turn the defender C and run with the ball intothe end area, finishing by passing to player D.

Player D becomes the attacker, A the defender, B andC go to the opposite end and the exercise is repeated.

A

BC

B

D


WH 056-063 Section E:WH Section E 4/2/09 09:54 Page 56

Once a young player has mastered the basic skills and techniquesof the game, he must combine them with other players tobecome an increasingly effective player. Combination play isabout the ability of two or more players to link together effectivemovement, hopefully resulting in the creation of space or aneffort on the opposition’s goal.

As coaches we must try teach players to recognise developingsituations in matches – whether it is a one/two, reading a flick-on or supporting and passing early into a running player.

These moments and evolving scenarios have to be endlesslyreplicated on the training pitch and the appropriate responsesof the players coached and diligently practised so that, in time,they become second nature. On match day players should actinstinctively: their responses and technique honed by hours ofwell-directed rehearsal.

These practices could easily be described as ‘passing’ exercisesand would fit into that section of the manual. However, underthe heading of ‘Combination Plays’ we will put more emphasis onthe timing of runs and encourage movement off the ball.

Section E

Combination Plays

E1 Diagonal and overlapping runs / E2Two in a circleE3 Forwards combiningE4 One touch pass and move combinationsE5 Combination play in wide areas



Coaching pointsYou are looking for the timing of the runs, firsttime passing, tempo/speed of passing andmovement. It is important that performingplayers do not release the ball too early; lookfor a ‘tight’ exchange of passes. Players shouldbe restricted to a maximum of two touches,preferably just one when technique andproficiency allow.

E1 Diagonal and overlapping runsPreparation: Eight or more players in an area of 30 x 10yds.

58

SECTION E COMBINATION PLAYS

Description: 1 Player A passes to the central playerC. Players A and B make diagonal runs beyond C.Player C passes to player B as he runs into support.

Player B passes to the end man player D and thepractice is repeated.

Player C stays as the ‘middle man’ and is changed from time to time.

A B

AB

C

DE


COMBINATION PLAYS 59

3 The initial set up remains the same. Player A passessquare to player B who runs diagonally with the balltowards player C who acts as a passive defender.

Player B passes the ball past player C into A’s run.Player A passes out to player E. The practice isrepeated. Change player C from time to time.

The player running with the ball can sometimes feint a pass to his partner and beat player C with a dribble. This will keep the player C guessing where the ball will go. With more proficient players let‘defender’ C become more active.

Don’t forget to rotate the ‘defender’ on a regular basis.

2 The set up is as for the previous practice.

Player A plays square into B. Player B plays first time toplayer C. Players A and B make diagonal runs.

Player C now passes to A or B and they in turn pass toeither players D or E and the practice is repeated.

AB

B

A

C

D E

A B

AB

D

E

C




Coaching pointsStart slowly so that the players have time to‘work it out’. When they have all grasped it,limit play to two touches on the outside andone touch in the middle.

Weight of pass and accuracy combined withgood timed runs to support are key.

Timing and speed of pass are the essentialtargets to aim for.

E2Two in a circlePreparation: Eight or more players in an area of 20 x 20yds.

Description: Set up the players in a 20-yard circlewith two players in the middle. One player is ‘point’(farthest from the ball) and the other is support(nearest the ball). In the diagram player B is point andplayer C is the support.

Player A passes to B (point), player C supports andreceives B’s pass. Player C passes out of the centre toplayer D.

Player A comes into the centre of the circle andbecomes point, player B now becomes support. PlayerD passes to A, B supports and passes out of the centreand the process is repeated.

A

B

C

D



Coaching pointsThe things to watch for are the timing of B’srun and the timing and weight of A’s passes.Ensure that B’s pass to A is in front of A and his pass does not travel too close to the goalkeeper.

Use the ‘line’ of the two mannequins to judge ifthe turning player’s run is too early and he hastherefore run offside. Coach the timing of therun.

E3 Forwards combiningPreparation: Eight or more players in pairs. An areaof half a pitch including the penalty area. You will needtwo mannequins.

Description: The set up is as shown in the diagram.Player A runs with the ball (no more than five yards)and passes down the side and behind mannequin X.Player B has turned and run in anticipation of A’s pass.

As player B arrives at the ball he plays a square passfor A who has made a run between the mannequins.Player A shoots at goal using a maximum of two touches.

Player A becomes B, B joins the line and player E,waiting in line, becomes A.

The left side featuring players D, C and F repeat thepractice next.

A

B

C

D

EF

A

B

XY




Coaching pointsStipulate one touch for the two central playersB and C. This is all about quick accurate passingwith good touch, good timing of support andruns. Above all ask the players to be creative, itwill really pay off in the heat of battle whenplayers have perfected these combinations.

E4 One touch pass and move combinationsPreparation: Groups of six players in an area of 40 x 20yds. You will need two poles and twomannequins for each group of players.

Description: The set up is as shown in the diagram.Player A moves the ball out of his feet and away fromthe pole passing to player B who has checked andcome short.

Player B passes first time to A who has made a passingangle to receive B’s pass. A passes first time to playerC, who has checked away and come short. C passesfirst time to player B, who has turned and run tosupport C.

Player B passes first time to D and joins the line. PlayerA becomes B, D repeats the practice: D to C; C backto D; D to B; C turns to support B; B to C; C to F andout to join the line behind F.

The vital combinations are between the central pair Band C. This can easily be adapted for wall passes,‘turning the ball around the corner’, blind side runs andso on. The coach needs to use his imagination tocreate combinations around the mannequins.

A good exercise when performed at speed!

C

D

E

A

F

A

B

B



Coaching pointsDemand a match tempo – everything sharp andaccurate. After all the work in the ‘combination’,demand a quality accurate cross and goodfinishing from the strikers.

As the practice is unopposed it allows allplayers to concentrate on perfecting technique.

E5 Combination play in wide areasPreparation: Groups of ten or more players. Anarea of half a pitch including the penalty area. You willneed two mannequins.

Description: The set up is shown in the diagram; youwill be working the left and right sides.

Player A passes wide to player B. B runs inside with theball as player A starts an overlapping run behind B. Bpasses to ‘striker’ C who passes two touch into A’s run.Player A crosses for ‘strikers’ D and G.

Player A becomes B, B becomes C and C comes outto join the line as player H becomes A. Player D staysas permanent ‘striker’ attacking crosses from both sides(change at regular intervals). Right and left sides go alternatively. Player C supports D in trying to score,when the ball is crossed from the right.

C D

E

AG

B

B

A

F

H I


WH 064-071 Section F:WH Section F 21/1/09 10:15 Page 64

After young players have developed sufficiently their shortpassing techniques at around the twelve years of age mark,longer passing and crossing balls should become part of theirday-to-day game.

The transition from small-sided football to the 11 v 11 formatopens the pitch up and the players are spread further apart. Atthis point in a young player’s development the physical demandsincrease and the technical skills change with the introduction oflonger passing, more accurate shooting from distance and thevital skill of crossing balls into the penalty box from wide areas.

Youngsters develop at differing speeds and it would be a foolishcoach who insisted on all his players of 11 or 12 years of agepractising the longer game; every individual is different, hasdifferent capabilities and the more physically developed playerwill find it easier than his less physically developed team-mate.Coaches must use their judgement about how and when eachyoung player starts to perform these increasingly demandingpractices.

Section F

Long Passing & Crossing

F1 Chipping the ball / F2 Chip to a target / F3 Crossing drillF4 Set up: hit long / F5 Crossing into the box / F6 Hitting space



SECTION F LONG PASSING AND CROSSING

Coaching pointsMake sure the ball back from B to A or C isplayable first time. The chipping player must gethis toe underneath the ball and kick under andthrough the centre of the ball. They must keeptheir eyes on the ball until contact has beenmade and kick using a follow through, not astabbing action.

F1 Chipping the ballPreparation: Groups of three players in an area of30 x 10yds.

Description: Organise three players as shown in thediagram. Player A passes to player B. B sets back on anangle to A, who now chips/lofts the ball up to player C.

Player A is effectively trying to chip over an imaginaryplayer situated between him and C. A’s chip shouldland the ball just in front of C (about one yard away).Player C tries to control the ball before or as itbounces.

Player C repeats the practice by setting the ball up offplayer B. Rotate player B at regular intervals.

A

B

C


LONG PASSING AND CROSSING 67

Coaching pointsPlayers must not kick a ‘dead’ ball but makesure it is rolling as they attempt their chip. Thechip/loft should be controlled both for heightand accuracy. With older players insist on amaximum of only 3 touches – that is control,push to the side and chip the ball.

F2 Chip to a targetPreparation: Pairs of players in an area of 40 x 10yds.

Description: Organise the players in two ten-yardsquares with a 20-yard no-go zone in between them,as shown in the diagram. Use cones or markers if nolines are available.

Player A pushes the ball out of his feet and chips theball over the no-go zone to his partner B. Player Amust try to land the ball anywhere in player B’s ten-yard area. Player B should try to get the ball undercontrol before or as it bounces. Once he has the ballunder control, player B repeats the practice.

A

B




Coaching pointsThis is not an easy practice and technique andaccuracy are key elements. Players must exhibittechnique that demonstrates that the toe ispostioned under the ball and the head is downwith the eyes firmly on the ball. A good followthrough after contact is necessary. Because the target area is to the left of thechipping player, the last couple of stridesbefore contact with the ball should mean thatthe player is coming around the ball slightly sothat the ball is to the left of him and in front ofthe non-kicking foot (in this case the left).

F3 Crossing drillPreparation: Pairs of players in an area of 40 x 20yds.

Description: As shown in the diagram organise theplayers in two 10 x 20yds areas with a 20 x 20yds no-go zone in between them.

This practice mimics a crossing from a wide area situation.

Player A runs with the ball to his right and attempts tocross the ball to his partner B. The crossed ball mustonly land in player B’s area and not drop short into theno-go zone.

Player B controls the ball before or as it bounces and,pushing the ball to his right, repeats the process. Goboth left and right as appropriate.

A

B



Coaching pointsWhen driving the ball low, the kicking playerneeds a tight ankle on contact, keeping thehead down and kicking through the centre ofthe ball.

Ask the players to be imaginative when strikingthe ball: bend the ball, chip it, drive it, use theoutside of the foot and so on.

F4 Set up: hit longPreparation: Players in groups of four in an area of40 x 15yds.

Description: Player A passes to player B, B sets theball back at an angle for player A to strike first time. A strikes the ball high or low into player C. C controlsand passes to D for D to set the ball back to C torepeat the practice.

After each delivery A and B change roles as do C and D.

A

B

C

D




Coaching pointsMake sure that all of the types of crossed ballsare crossed with pace, the exception being themore delicate chip to the far post.

The striker can then use the pace of the crossto obtain power and may only have to guide ittowards goal.

F5 Crossing into the boxPreparation: Players in groups of eight in the areaaround the penalty box.

Description: Player A passes to player B who in turnpasses to player C. C runs with the ball and crossesinto the penalty box for player D.

Player A becomes C, C becomes B, B joins the line.Player G becomes A. The practice is repeated on theleft with player B as the target striker.

This practice can be adapted for 8 v 8 sized goals andpitch, and it may be better to concentrate on lowcrosses as the 8-11 year-olds may not have thestrength or technique to cross high balls.

A

B CD

E

F

G

H



Coaching pointsA greater degree of accuracy is required forthis practice and the ball must be hung higherfor the running player. The key is for thechipping player to aim for the space five yardsin front of the running player. Again, thechipping player’s technique must feature thetoe under the ball, a tight ankle and a goodelevation of pass.

F6 Hitting spacePreparation: Players in pairs in any open space.

Description: Player A and B start ten yards apartand, using just one touch, repeatedly pass the ball toeach other. When B is ready he sets the ball back to A’sright or left side on an angle.

As soon as B sets the ball back he runs awayanticipating that the ball will be chipped by A, droppinginto the space in front of him.

As he runs away, B looks over his shoulder assessingthe flight of A’s chipped pass. As player B collects theball A runs to join him and they repeat the processwith B chipping the ball into space for A.

A

B

B


WH 072-085 Section G:WH Section G 21/1/09 10:23 Page 72

In every team all of the players, even the most creative and thetop goalscorers, will be asked to defend for the team at somepoint during a game. When a team loses possession of the ballevery player becomes a defender and must do their bit to winback the ball as quickly as possible.

This is what coaches and managers call having ‘defensively-minded’ players. It means every player in the team thinks andacts defensively when the game situation demands it, and whythe best teams defend from the front and midfield; the backplayers are the second and third line of defence not the first.

With forwards and the midfield thinking about and acting ontheir defensive responsibilities, the ball can be won back in theopponent’s half, which is so much better for the team: it putsthe attacking side in a threatening position with an early threaton the opponent’s goal.

Defending practices are for all squad members not justdefenders, and the coach should encourage every player toparticipate fully in this important aspect of team development.

Section G

Defending

G1 Defending 1 v 1 in each half / G2 Closing down the oppositionG3 Going with runnersG4 Closing down the opposition/defending from the frontG5 Squeezing play / G6Two defenders v three forwardsG7 Marking on crosses 1 / G8 Marking on crosses 2G9 Attack vs defence (6 v 6) / G10 Defending as a team



SECTION G DEFENDING

Coaching pointsDefenders must get tight if the ball is played tothe feet of the designated forward, but not sotight that he is unable to see the ball and caneasily be turned. A good rule of thumb is to betouch tight.

The defender’s approach to the attackershould be on the shoulder that is on the openside so that he can keep the attacker in thesmallest space.

Defending players must be aware and react toquick movement and be determined. The firstbasic principle of defending is to delay theattackers. Be patient and wait for the rightmoment to win the ball, constantly trying todeny the forward time and space.

G1 Defending 1 v 1 in each halfPreparation: Groups of eight players in an area of40 x 10yds.

Description: Organise the players as shown in thediagram. Player A passes into the ‘forward’ player Bwatched by player C acting as the defender. B shouldattempt to turn and score in the small goal (i.e. thegoal he initially has his back to). B can attack the goal asan individual or use the side player D to play off. Note,D must only be allowed a maximum of two touches ofthe ball or preferably – with the more technicallyproficient players – just one touch.

Defender C gets tight and tries to stop B turning. Cmust be aware of the threat of B playing a wall passwith D. If a goal is scored or the defender winspossession, the sequence is repeated with player Hpassing to the designated forward E and player Fassuming the role of the defender.

Progress to 2 v 2 making the practice area wider by ten yards.

A

B

C

D

EF

G

H


DEFENDING 75

Coaching pointsDefending players have a vital role in stoppingthe opposition’s attacking build-up by trying tostop the ball being passed forwards. The aim ofthe practice is to improve the ability of playersto win possession of the ball and break up theopposition’s play.

Players will be working on the defendingplayer’s angle of approach to the pass receiverand at the same time the coach shouldencourage them not to dive in and to stay ontheir feet. They will have to time theirintervention carefully and their aim should beto block the pass, win possession or run theball out of play.

This practice can be advanced by allowing thereceiving player to play a pass back to theserver who returns the ball as the receivingplayer attempts to lose his marker throughmovement. The marker must stay with therunner and not chase the ball.

G2 Closing down the opposition Preparation: Groups of six players in an area of 30 x 10yds.

Description: The practice starts when player/serverA passes the ball to either attacking player B or C (theplayer to whom the pass is not directed drops out).Player D, acting as the defending player, reacts to thepass by closing down the pass receiver and trying tostop him passing through to player E.

Once the attacking player has made his pass to theopposition server, or the defending player has won theball or has run it out of play, the practice is repeatedfrom the opposite end. Players rotate positionsthroughout the practice.

E

A

B

C

D



SECTION G DEFENDING

Coaching pointsAgain the aim is to teach defenders to closedown attackers in possession of the ball andthe importance of getting close to anopponent. If his opponent plays a wall pass it iscritical that the defender doesn’t follow theball but goes with the runner.

Repeat the drill with the claret shirted playerstaking the attacking role and rotate yourplayers.

Once everyone is familiar with the drill,progress so that if defender B wins possessionhe immediately attacks original attacker A andtries to run the ball behind him to theopposite end line. He can use his own supportplayers E and F if required.

G3 Going with runners Preparation: Groups of six players in an area of 30 x 10yds.

Description: The coach acts as the server and beginsthe drill by passing the ball to attacking player A.

Defending player B tries to close down the attacker,while attacker A does his best to beat the approachingdefender and run the ball over the end line.

The attacking player can use players C and Dpositioned outside the area as team-mates, playing awall pass off them. Players C and D should berestricted to a maximum of two touches beforereleasing the ball and, ideally, just one touch for moretechnically advanced players.

A

B

C

D

E

F


DEFENDING 77

Coaching pointsThis practice is designed to bring home theresponsibility of forwards to shut down theball when the opposition has possession in thefinal third of the pitch, and to practise keydefensive skills such as angles of approach andreducing opposition passing options.

The drill should last for twenty to thirtyminutes and, unlike many other drills in themanual, players assuming the role of strikersshould stay as strikers.

G4 Closing down theopposition/defending from the frontPreparation: Groups of twelve players in an area of30 x 50yds with two small goals positioned as shownin the diagram.

Description: This practice is another designed toencourage players to close down the opposition – inthis case forwards who may not instinctively treat it aspart of their game.

The goalkeeper throws the ball out to his defenderplayer A. Defending players B and C must touch theball before they can pass the ball forward to either oftheir strikers D or E.

As the attacking team is passing the ball along itsdefensive line, red players F and G, who in theiradvanced position up the pitch are the red team’sstrikers, work to close the ball down, win possessionand shoot at goal.

If the red team is unsuccessful in closing down the intialattacking team, it can now pass the ball to its forwardsD and E who attempt to score. Once a shot on goalhas been made and the ball recovered the drill isrestarted by red’s goalkeeper who throws the ball outto his defenders. Once again all three defenders musttouch the ball before attempting to get the ball up totheir strikers.

A

B

C

D

E

F

G



SECTION G DEFENDING

Coaching pointsThe game, apart from being great fun and agood example of the positive value of teamtogetherness, promotes excellent levels ofconcentration and injects a desire in theplayers to work for the team, especially whendefending.

Good defensive values are shown here by theteam being compact, pressing play into theopposition half and encouraging a good teamethic. It is important that the offside rule isrigorously adhered to during the game. Youneed to reward and praise good defending thatcaptures the opposition offside.

G5 Squeezing playPreparation: Groups of 16 players who will beplaying an 8 v 8 game. Both teams will adopt a 3-2-2formation. Mark out an area of 60 x 40yds and thenmark two lines five yards either side of the half wayline as shown in the diagram.

Description: The game is played in the normal wayexcept that for a goal to count all of the scoring team(with the exception of the goalkeeper) must be inboth the opposition’s half and beyond their 5-yard line.This encourages the attacking team to push uptogether. In particular the three defenders will need tomaintain a compact unit. All seven outfield players ofthe attacking side will need to keep team formationand squeeze play into the opposition’s half.

If an attacking team’s player does not make it beyondthe 5-yard line as his team scores, no goal is awarded.To even things up, any defending player not retreatingquickly enough from the attacking team’s half as theattacking team scores causes his team to concede two goals.


DEFENDING

Coaching pointsPlayers must not over commit and leave theirdefensive partner isolated. Defenders must tryto guide the forwards to the sides, maintaintheir togetherness as a unit and not get caughtflat. All of the time maintaining goodcommunication, i.e. ‘go with the run, I’ve gotthe player with the ball’ etc. Above alldefenders must show clear determination notto let the forwards score.

With older groups you may need to limit thenumber of touches the forwards can have – i.e. 2 or 3 touches.

‘Press the ball’, angle wide and the coveringplayer drops and slides across to cover hispartner. These are the key points to stress.

G6Two defenders v three forwards Preparation: Groups of 12 players in an area of 50 x 30yds with a half way line marked and two small goals as shown in the diagram.

Description: Defenders A and B in one half and Cand D in the other are up against three forwards each.Each group of five players and goalkeeper are confinedto their own half. Because the defenders are out-numbered they have to work as a unit coveringeach other and good communication is required.

A

B

C

D

79



SECTION G DEFENDING


DEFENDING 81

G7 Marking on crosses 1 (1 v 1) Preparation: One defender (B) and one forward(A) in the penalty area of a full sized pitch with twowaiting players (E and F) to the side of the goal. PlayersC and D are in wide areas crossing the ball using thetwo mannequins as dummy defenders.

Description: Player D runs at mannequin Y andcrosses the ball for attacker A. The starting position forthe defending player B is all-important: he must markgoal side and in front of A.

As D begins his run and before the delivery of thecross, defender B must be aware of any movement ofattacking A, adjusting his position accordingly. Themoment the ball is crossed the defending player mustattack the ball with complete determination, headingor volleying the ball clear.

Give each defender six crosses then swap the playersin the penalty area for the two waiting by the far post.Make sure that all defenders and attackers receivecrosses from both the left and right side.

A

B

C

D

YX

FE



SECTION G DEFENDING

Coaching pointsWinning the battle to be ‘first to the ball’ whendealing with crosses relies on good positioningon the part of the defender. For young players‘seeing the ball and the player you are marking’is a particularly difficult concept to grasp asballs are crossed into the penalty area.

The defending player must adopt an open bodyposition and expect the attacker to pull awayfrom the ball, trying to get in behind thedefender or trying to pull him away, making arun in front and across him.

If the defender’s position is correct before thecross arrives, and he attacks the ball it willmake it extremely hard for the attacker to getan effort on goal.

The aim of the defender is always to be first tothe ball no matter how. Be brave!

G8 Marking on crosses 2 (2 v 2)Preparation: Ten or more players including agoalkeeper in the penalty area of a full sized pitch. Youwill need two mannequins and a bag of balls.

Description: The practice is identical to the one onthe previous page [G7], but now we add more playersin the penalty box and ask the goalkeeper to play hispart in coming for crosses.

The starting position for the defending players A and B(shown in white) is vital. Both should mark goal sideand in front of the attackers and must be able to seethe ball and their respective attackers.

Progress to three defenders vs three forwards in thepenalty box – i.e. two centrebacks and the far full back.

Contact is inevitable in this exercise and it is importantthat players show a desire and willingness to be thefirst to the ball.

AB


83DEFENDING

Coaching pointsThe nearest player shuts the ball down and theback four should stay balanced and together.The two central defenders B and C dictatehow high or deep the back line is. The farfullback A should not be deeper than thecentre backs’ line. Emphasise all the basics ofdefending previously mentioned – delay,compactness and good communication.

You must drill the group to be organised anddetermined.

G9 Attack vs defence (6 v 6)Preparation: 13 players including a goalkeeper inthe penalty area of a full sized pitch.

Description: The defending team is made up of sixplayers (A-F) vs the attacking team (1-6).

The coach starts the practice by passing the ball toattacker 1. Defender D reacts by closing down theattacker’s space while the entire defending team movesacross to balance the formation and deny the attackspace.

A

B

C

D

E

F

1

2

3

4

5

6



SECTION G DEFENDING

G10 Defending as a teamPreparation: The practice requires 16 players plus agoalkeeper on two thirds of a full sized pitch.

Description: The defensive set up consists of agoalkeeper, a back four and a midfield three. In fact weask the midfield three to play as if they had a fourthteam member on the pitch. We do this because weactually want problematic defensive situations to arise.

Now we put it all together. In this practice we ask theplayers to defend the middle and defensive thirds ofthe pitch.

In the diagram the red team is attacking theopposition’s goal. Red player A has the ball and passesit to player B. As the ball is passed defending midfielderH leaves red player C and moves towards red player B;G moves to his left to mark red player C, and F movesover to mark red player D; H takes up a markingposition showing red player B back inside.

A

B

C

D

F

G

H


DEFENDING 85

Coaching pointsAll the critical components of successfuldefensive play practised earlier now come intoplay: keeping the team compact; closing downthe player with the ball to limit their passingopportunities; tracking any forward runs andconstant and good communication betweenteam-mates. Above all players must show realteam effort and a habit of working for eachother.

As a simple guide – the nearest defenderpresses the ball, showing inside in attacking and midfield zones, showing outside in thedefending zone, other players slide across and drop to cover.

It is important when working the team that thedefenders understand that it is the centraldefenders who dictate how high or deep theback line should be. When they push up ordrop off the full backs must follow.

As a general rule the full backs should not bedeeper than the centrebacks, they should be atleast level. If not you won’t have a compact unitof players and mistakes and misunderstandingscan occur.

More senior players should use four midfieldplayers, rather than three so that the defensiveset-up is two lines of four.


WH 086-095 Section H:WH Section H 4/2/09 10:07 Page 86

Being able to head the ball well is a vital skill for every player, nomatter what position – and this includes goalkeepers! A well-headed ball can create and score goals or intercept and helpdeal with dangerous attacking situations.

It can be difficult to coach heading for the very young player soit must be made fun and the coach should adapt games toinclude it. Slightly under-inflated balls or ‘heading balls’ can beused especially when introducing the technique to the youngestplayers for the first time. Poor technique and sometimes inflictedpain when heading hard balls can put off young children, so littleand often is the way. For the 5 to 8 year-olds heading is not sucha vitally important skill, but when you do introduce it into theirgame try to use the tips above.

As players get older heading as part of the game becomes muchmore important and can make the difference between winningand losing games – especially at re-starts.

If we can remove the ‘fear of pain’ among the very young playersevery time they experience heading, we will see bettertechnique emerge, far less apprehension and match winningheaded goals!

Section H

Heading

H1Throw to head / H2 Continuous headingH3 Learning to jump / H4 Heading for goalH5 Attacking the ball / H6 Heading for distanceH7 Defensive heading / H8 Heading in the box



SECTION H HEADING

Coaching pointsThis simple drill is designed to instil confidenceinto your players and help develop goodtechnique as they learn to head the ball.

Players must watch the ball right on to theirforeheads, use their arms in an open positionfor balance, thrust the neck towards the ball,arch the back and keep their eyes open for aslong as possible (they will naturally blink as theball makes contact with the head). Youngplayers commonly make the mistake of closingtheir eyes well before the ball arrives. At thisstage jumping is not vital.

H1 Throw to headPreparation: Pairs of players each in an area of 10 x 10yds.

Description: Player A throws underarm to player B.B heads back into player A’s hands. As the players’confidence grows progress to A repeats his throw to Bwho must now head the ball twice – once in the airand then back to A.

This will ensure that the player heading the ball keepshis eyes open and watches the ball on contact.

AB


HEADING 89

Coaching pointsPlayers should head the ball up in an arc, not astraight line giving his partner time to read theflight of the ball and adjust his position.

Ask the players to keep count of how manycontinuous headers they manage and make itcompetitive among the squad. Make it fun!

H2 Continuous headingPreparation: Pairs of players each in an area of 10 x 10yds.

Description: Players A and B start by one playerthrowing underarm to their partner’s head, the playersthen try to head the ball back and forth.

A B



SECTION H HEADING

Coaching pointsThe timing of C’s jump and A’s placement ofthe ball are both vital. Player C must not standtoo close to player B (touch tight is themaximum). C must jump from a one foot takeoff and not stand and jump.

The sequence should be A throws over andabove B’s shoulder, C should take one stepforward and jump off with one foot, headingfirmly back to A.

H3 Learning to jumpPreparation: Players in groups of three, each groupin an area of 10 x 10yds.

Description: Player A throws underarm to player C,C jumps to head the ball back to A. Player B acts as apassive defender and does not attempt to intercept orhead the ball.

A

B

C


HEADING 91

Coaching pointsThe servers must throw the ball in an arc andinto the space the heading player is running to.The heading player should keep his eyes openas he heads the ball and aim for the corner ofthe goal. Jumping is not crucial during thisexercise.

H4 Heading for goalPreparation: Eight or more players including agoalkeeper in the penalty area of a full sized pitch. Youwill need two poles or mannequins.

Description: The set up is as shown with servers Aand B either side of goal. The servers throw underarmacross the goal for players to run in and head for goal.The player that has headed the ball continues his runand takes the server’s place. The balls are served leftand right alternately.

CD

SERVER A SERVER B



SECTION H HEADING

Coaching pointsThe service from players A and B must begood and well controlled. For less capableplayers the server can throw rather than volleythe ball across the box.

The heading players must attack the flight ofthe ball and head for goal. It is important thatthere is some pace on the volley or throw.

H5 Attacking the ballPreparation: Eight or more players including agoalkeeper in the penalty area of a full sized pitch. Youwill need two poles or mannequins.

Description: The set up is as shown with servers Aand B either side of goal. Server A passes a controlledvolley, head high, across the penalty area. Player D runspast the pole, intercepts the volleyed pass by headingthe ball towards the goal. Server B now repeats theexercise by volleying across the box for player C tointercept with a header for goal.

C

DSERVER A

B


HEADING 93

Coaching pointsMake sure the service is high and slightly shortof each heading player. This will enable theheading player to come forward onto the balland, by heading up and under the ball, get theheight and distance required.

Adjust the distance between players fordifferent age groups.

H6 Heading for distancePreparation: Four players in an area of 20 x 10yds.

Description: Set up the players as shown separatedby about five yards. Player A throws underarm forplayer B to head over A to player C. Player C turns andthrows underarm for player D to head back over C toplayer A. Change player positions from time to time.

The more proficient players can try to maintain acontinual heading sequence in place of throwing, withthe two central players turning as the ball is in mid-flight.

A

B

C

D



SECTION H HEADING

Coaching pointsEach defender tries to get as much height anddistance on his header as possible. Headingplayers should get under the ball and head thelower part of the ball, which will give the ball height.

Timing is essential and you should coach thedefenders to take one or two strides to theball and jump using a one footed take off.

Good service is vital, so use players with goodkicking skills.

H7 Defensive headingPreparation: Groups of six players on half a full sized pitch.

Description: Players A, B and C are the defenders;D, E and F are the servers.

Randomly, players D, E or F chip high balls to the edgeof the penalty area. The nearest defender to the balltries to head the ball back to the half way line.

A B C

DE F


HEADING 95

Coaching pointsAs soon as the ball is crossed it must beattacked at its highest point; players must not wait. The ball should be headed fordistance and all players must showcommitment and determination.

H8 Heading in the boxPreparation: Ten or more players in the areaaround the penalty box of a full sized pitch.

Description: The set up is as shown with twodefenders marking one forward and two furtherdefenders who are resting.

Start with wide players A and B producing a simpleoverlap and pass – that is player B passes to A as heoverlaps. Player A must cross the ball high into thepenalty box for defenders C and D to head clear.Attacker E adds realism and pressure to the defenderstrying to head for goal himself. Player F will pick up anyloose clearances by playing the ball left or right to startanother attack.

Keep the defenders moving and adjusting theirpositions. Alternate defenders I and J with C and Dfrom time to time, as well as E and F.

A

B

CD

E

F

G

I J

H


WH 096-105 Section I:WH Section I 21/1/09 10:34 Page 96

This section is about developing your players’ ability to put theball into the net. It sounds simple enough, but players that cando it consistently and well are worth their weight in gold! Is it aninstinct or can it be coached? It’s probably a bit of both, althoughgreat strikers do seem to be born with the knack.

When setting up these practices it is important that they presenta realistic challenge – don’t make it too easy for players to scoreor make it so difficult it becomes discouraging.

The key elements are not to give the attacker too much spaceor time. Very few goals are scored with the scorer having morethan three touches – there are exceptions, but they are few andfar between.

So organise your practices with one, two or three touches tofinish. The very young player needs more time and space; the16-18 year-old needs to work on one and two touch finishing.

First hone the players’ technique and accuracy – only then addpower. Some youngsters go for power before accuracy. Keepreminding them this is the wrong way round. Make sure theyalso remember to always make the goalkeeper work by hittingthe target – that way they will always have a chance of scoring.

Goals win games. It’s worth practising!

Section I

Shooting

I1 Run and shoot / I2Touch and shoot / I3Turning and shootingI4 Shield, dummy, turn and shoot / I5 Dribble, pass, shootI6Volleys / I7 Shooting under pressure



SECTION I SHOOTING

Coaching pointsPlayers’ kicking skills should be coached so thatthe non-kicking foot is placed along side theball, and with the head down looking at theball, kick through the ball with a pointed toe.

Players must concentrate on a good strike andhit the target (accuracy).

Just before the player shoots tell him to have aquick look at the goalkeeper’s position.

With the coach serving the balls, this practiceshould be a one touch finish.

Repeat the practice for left foot shooting onthe other side of the penalty box.

I1 Run and shootPreparation: Up to twelve players including agoalkeeper in the penalty area of a full sized pitch.

Description: Pitch size and distances should be age appropriate.

Set up as shown (use a smaller penalty area and pitchsize for 8-11 year-olds).

The coach, who has a bag of balls, rolls one ballgoalward as player A runs forward. A shoots for goal,collects his ball (hopefully from out of the back of thenet) and returns it to the coach. The coach and playerB repeat the sequence.

A

A

B

C


SHOOTING 99

Coaching pointsStipulate that players must finish with twotouches using the right foot on the left of thegoal and the left foot on the right of goal.Players should change sides periodically topractise both right and left foot shooting.

Encourage quick feet movement – a ‘ball out ofthe feet and shoot’ mentality.

I2Touch and shootPreparation: Eight or more players including agoalkeeper in the penalty area of a full sized pitch.

Description: Set up as shown. Player A passes theball firmly to player B. B pushes the ball with the insideof his right foot to the side and forward avoiding themannequin as shown. The player’s second touch mustbe a shot at goal.

Player A becomes B, B joins the line. The sequence isrepeated on the other side with players C and D.

C

DB

A



SECTION I SHOOTING

Coaching pointsThis drill is all about the attacking player’s turn.You are looking at the accuracy and efficiencyof the turn, especially the placement of the ballfor the second touch, which will be allimportant when it comes to getting the shot away.

The less space the forward needs to performthe turn and shot, the more effective he will become.

Note that from the left side it is a right-footedturn and shot and vice versa from the right.

This drill is an excellent simulation of creatingspace to ‘come off ’ a defender and turning him,which is a vital skill for every striker.

Encourage the players to create different turns.

I3Turning and shootingPreparation: Eight or more players including agoalkeeper in the penalty area of a full sized pitch. You will need two mannequins.

Description: Player C passes to player A who‘comes off ’ the mannequin to perform a back footturn. Immediately after he turns he pushes the ballforward and to his right and shoots at goal rightfooted. Speed of execution of the turn and shot are vital.

Player A retrieves his ball and rejoins the line as playersB and D repeat the drill on the right side of the pitch.

AB

CD

A


SHOOTING 101

Coaching pointDuring this drill the attacking players areattempting a classic dummy and its success willdepend on the speed of execution and thequality of their turns.

Be sure players are comfortable performingthe technique before introducing them to thisdrill. You may need to practise usingmannequins before introducing defenders.

I4 Shield, dummy, turn and shootPreparation: Ten players: six forwards, four defendersplus a goalkeeper in the penalty area of a full sized pitch.

Description: Attacking player C passes to player Awho is being tightly marked by white defender E.Attacker player A positions his body on the half turnand receives the ball with the outside of the front foot,i.e. the foot that is furthest from the defender (rightfoot in the diagram). At the same time he is holding thedefender off with his left side. A now brings the insideof his left foot over the ball and plants it on the ground;with his weight on his left foot, he uses his right foot topush the ball inside the defender, turns and shootsright-footed.

In this practice we ask the defender to stay passiveafter he has initially pressed the attacker as he receivesthe ball, and not interfere with the turn and the shot.We want the attacking player to learn to feel thepresence of the defender.

Player A gets his ball and rejoins the line and thepractice is repeated on the other side of the pitchusing players B and D. Defenders E and F change withG and H after three goes each.

AB

CD

E

G

F

H



SECTION I SHOOTING

Coaching pointsThe older and better players should beencouraged to perform the exercise quickly,especially the exchange of passes prior to theshot. Ensure players get to practise both leftand right foot shooting by changing the playersover from side to side, and promote andencourage accuracy before power.

I5 Dribble, pass, shootPreparation: Any number of players plus agoalkeeper in the penalty area of a full sized pitch. Youwill need two mannequins and 12 cones.

Description: The set up is as shown. Player A, on theleft side of the penalty area, dribbles in and out of thecones [shown as blue markers] and passes the ball toplayer B before going around the last cone.

Player B passes first time back to player A who hascarried on his run past the mannequin to B’s left. PlayerA should try to shoot first time but less capableplayers may need two touches.

Player A recovers his ball and joins the line. Players Cand D repeat the process on the right side.

Groups should change sides periodically and rotateplayers into the B and C positions.

A

B C

D


SHOOTING 103

Coaching pointsGive the performing player time to adjust bythrowing the ball high and away from him.Throw the ball over right shoulder for a leftfoot shoot.

When the player is about to strike the ball hemust not hit the ball on the ‘up’, but wait untilthe ball is dropping and strike it when it isapproximately positioned between the kneeand the ankle. A pointed toe and a tight anklejoint are needed with a follow through after contact.

I6VolleysPreparation: Six or more players plus a goalkeeperin the penalty area of a full sized pitch.

Description: The set up is as shown with the coachholding the ball and player A standing with his back to goal.

The coach throws the ball high over player A’s leftshoulder. Player A turns and volleys the ball at goalbefore it has bounced twice. Player A collects his balland joins the line. Player B takes his turn.

A

B



SECTION I SHOOTING

Coaching pointsThe attackers must attack at speed and beaware of running forward without the ball tooquickly (avoiding going offside). Goodmovement, speed, quality of pass should ensureeither B or C end up with a shot at goal.

The defender does his best to stop them scoring.

Rotate the defending player within the groupof three.

I7 Shooting under pressurePreparation: Ten or more players plus a goalkeeperon half a full sized pitch.

Description: Set up half a pitch narrowed withmarkers as shown.

The exercise is performed by players in groups ofthree. One player acts as the defender (A) with B andC performing the role of attackers.

Player A starts with the ball and passes to B or C.Players B and C immediately attack A and try to beathim and shoot to score.

The defender can use offside as a tactic and the twoattackers must be aware of this.

A

B C

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WH 106-117 Section J:WH Section J 21/1/09 10:39 Page 106

Conditioned games are an important part of any coachingprogram. During the course of most training sessions the coachwill, at some point, get the squad to play a small sided gameusually imposing one or more conditions to emphasise a specificcoaching point or to reinforce a team tactic.

In its simplest form the coach can merely limit the amount oftouches any player can have when in possession (one, two orthree touches) or he can overload players, for example 7 v 5, 6 v 4 etc, or have the overload players playing for the team inpossession (e.g. 4 v 4 + two floaters).

The permutations of imposable conditions are endless: thecoach must use his imagination combined with experience andknowing ‘what works’. Plus he must have a clear picture in hismind of what playing and tactical points are to be emphasisedduring the game and be ready to think up the most usefulconditions for each game.

The general rule for pitch size for any game is – if it’s too easymake the pitch smaller, or if it’s too hard make the pitch biggeror, ultimately, reassess the condition imposed. Remember, theseconditioned games are a means to an end, and must have atechnical or tactical emphasis within them to have any lastingcoaching value.

Section J

Conditioned Games

J1 Below head height – 3 v 3 / J2 One touch to finishJ3 Rebounds to score / J4 Only score from a cross and finishJ5 One touch in own half / J6 Man-to-man markingJ7 All in attacking half to score / J8 4 v 4J9 Head – catch/throw – headJ10Three zone game (playing out from the back)



SECTION J CONDITIONED GAMES

Coaching pointsThe game promotes passing between andaround the opposition – not over them. Itdemands that the players off the ball makegood passing angles, it encourages support andmovement, and practises passing skills withquick inter-play between team-mates.

During the game you can also set additionalconditions: for example two or three touchfootball for both teams.

J1 Below head height – 3 v 3Preparation: Playing area – 45 x 15yds with a 5yd‘no-go zone’ at each end complete with two smallgoals (poles or cones are fine, placed 1.5yds apart).

Description: By ruling out balls played over thehead, players are encouraged to pass the ball amongthe team to penetrate the opposition: no directfootball with high, long passes forward.

This condition is particularly useful with young playerswho are encouraged to support the player on the ballby making good passing angles; it also promotesmovement off the ball.

Condition: The ball must remain below head heightall of the time. When the side in possession offends byplaying the ball too high, they immediately handpossession over to the opposition. Both teams try toscore in the small goals at each end. Neither theattacking nor defending teams can enter the ‘no-gozones’ at any time. You can introduce side players toproduce wall passes, but limit them to a maximum oftwo touches.


CONDITIONED GAMES 109

Coaching pointsWe have restricted the forwards to a first time shot and this should have the effect ofsharpening their finishing skills and increasingthe general awareness of players around the goal.

The players off the ball must anticipate possiblegoal-scoring opportunities and those takingpossession of the ball, and who are not in aposition to score with one touch, must learnto pick out team-mates in scoring positions.

J2 One touch to finishPreparation: Playing area – 45 x 20yds area for agame of 6 v 6 including goalkeepers.

Description: The game can be expanded by addingplayers up to a maximum of 8 v 8 and increasing thearea to 60 x 40yds.

This encourages one touch shooting and sharpensforward players’ instincts around the goal. It also helpsto improve the awareness of players on the ball whomust pick out team-mates in better scoring positions.

Condition: The condition imposed is that the player shooting or heading for goal can only have onetouch on the ball, i.e. he must perform a first time shotor header.




Coaching pointsSince the striker can’t ‘score’ first time, thisgame naturally encourages other players to getup and support the striker.

It forces team-mates to follow up shots at goaland improves their anticipation, making themthink about where the ball will go. It will alsostop defenders switching off because they willbe regularly called upon to clear the rebounds.

J3 Rebounds to scorePreparation: Playing area – a sports hall, gymnasiumor anywhere with goals that can be marked on a solidsurface that will supply the rebounds. When you areoutside you can use benches placed on their sides inthe goalmouth.

Description: The diagram shows a 7 v 7 game,played without goalkeepers of course. Numbers canbe adjusted for smaller sports halls or gyms.

By forcing players to anticipate and react to a ballcoming back into play from a rebound, we candiscourage players off the ball from just watching andwaiting. It makes non-shooting players follow up shots(mimicking a parried save from a goalkeeper) andstops defenders switching off, as they may have to clearthe rebound.

Condition: The game is played normally, but to scorea goal the following must happen: the first shot on goaldoesn’t score; the ball will rebound off the wall (orbench) and must be struck into the goal again, with a

maximum of two touches (three touches for veryyoung players), to count.

In the diagram red 1 shoots and hits the goal, red 2,following up, ‘scores’ with his shot when the ballrebounds into his path.

1

2



Coaching pointBy limiting scoring opportunities to balls crossedfrom wide positions, the game will naturallycreate width in the team. It teaches forwards toanticipate crosses and improves crossingtechnique. It also encourages wingers to getinvolved in attacking crosses at the far post.

J4 Only score from a cross and finishPreparation: Playing area – position two goals onthe edge of each penalty area and mark off the wideareas (the width of the penalty area) with disks. PlayersA and B from each side are the only players allowed inthe wide areas.

Description: This game encourages width in theteam, which may well be lacking. It is designed toimprove crossing technique and encourages forwardsto attack crosses. Defensively, the goalkeeper and thedefending unit will have a lot of crosses to deal with.

Condition: A game of 7 v 7, including the twogoalkeepers, is played in the central area of the pitch. Agoal can only be scored when the attacking team’swide players (players A and B) cross the ball and it isheaded, shot or volleyed into the goal.

In addition, the ball can only be passed to the wideplayers by the attacking team’s midfield players orforwards, not their defenders or goalkeeper.

In the diagram the goalkeeper throws to (white 7)who has (5) in support, (7) passes to (5) who in turnpushes the ball out wide to A. Player A now crossesthe ball which is attacked by (8).

Finally, the opposite winger (white B in the diagram) is also allowed to come in and attack the cross on the far post.

A B

5

7

8

B A




Coaching pointsThe effect of the condition is to speed upattacking play and for defenders to cleardanger quickly. It also stops over-play in thewrong areas and improves qualities ofconcentration and anticipation.

The team will tend to play more as a unit andwill respond to the instruction, ‘play out andpush up’.

You should encourage your players to pass asaccurately as possible during the build ofattacks, not just a kick up-field, or the ball willjust keep coming back into their defensive half.

J5 One touch in own halfPreparation: Playing area – an area of 60 x 40ydsfor a game of 8 v 8 including goalkeepers. The playingarea size can be adjusted for smaller groups.

Description: If you feel that your team’s build upplay is too slow or your defenders are taking too manyrisks on the ball, then applying a condition that restrictsplayers to one touch of the ball in their own half is agreat way of making them deal more urgently with theball at their feet. It may also help the team to staymore compact if they push up quickly out of thedefensive third when defenders play forwards with animmediate one-touch pass.

Condition: A normal game is played with the strictcondition that every player, with the exception of thegoalkeepers, is allowed only one touch of the ball intheir defending half of the pitch. In the attacking halfplayers play their usual game.



Coaching pointsFrom the defensive point of view, the game willhelp perfect the qualities of both individualsand the team. It will sharpen defensiveconcentration and improve team disciplinelargely because every player has a job to doand each player must continually intercept ballsand tackle his nominated player.

The attacking team learns to play underpressure, and movement on and off the ball –aimed at losing markers – is practised in agame situation. It encourages individuals,offering a chance to repeatedly turn, performstep-overs, try feints and changes of pace,dribble and use every other trick in theirarmoury of ball skills.

For defenders concentration is essential. Theymust be careful not to ball watch and losetheir nominated man.

J6 Man-to-man markingPreparation: Playing area – the diagram shows anarea of 50 x 30yds for a game of 6 v 6 includinggoalkeepers. The area can be adjusted for larger orsmaller groups.

Description: This game is physically demanding so inorder to keep the quality of the play high you shouldintroduce regular rest periods.

It can be adapted for individual players or for separateteam units (e.g. just the midfielder or defenders).

The flip side of the man-to-man marking coin is theability of marked players to shrug off or lose theirmarkers. During the game a coach must stress to hisplayers that they should use their individual talents andskills – to run with the ball, perform turns and to makeruns off the ball – to lose their markers.

Condition: The game is played normally with norestrictions on touches, but at the outset every playeris given an opposition player to mark and becomes theonly player allowed to dispossess his nominated playerof the ball. All outfield players are marking man-to-man.




Coaching pointsThe game encourages the attacking team to‘push up’ together – squeezing play in theopponent’s half. It keeps the defending team’sforwards on their toes. They must concentrateor get caught out. If they switch off or become‘lazy’ they might easily cost their team two goals.

Tactically, it forces the attacking team’sdefenders to ‘push up’ together, keeping themin touch with the play in front; it also keeps theteam compact and catches the opposition’s‘lazy’ forwards offside.

The game is quite physically demanding and itis advisable to break regularly for drinks.

J7 All in attacking half to scorePreparation: The diagram shows an area of 60 x40yds for a game of 8 v 8 including goalkeepers.

Condition: For the attacking team’s goal to count, allof the attacking team must be in the opposition’s halfwhen the shot on goal is made. Additionally, all of thedefending team’s players must be in their own halfwhen the attacking team’s goal is scored or they arepunished by conceding two goals.

In the diagram the claret/blues are attacking the reds.Attackers A and B are looking to shoot and score.Claret/blues defenders C, D and E are running to getinto the attacking half for the goal to count. If red (1)and (2) do not get into their own half, the goal willcount double – thus punishing lazy forwards who fail to track back.

A

B

CDE 2 1



Coaching pointsThe coach should encourage lots of touches of the ball: 1 v 1 dribbling situations, ‘pass and move’ strategies and insist on high levels of concentration (every player is involved all ofthe time).

Progress to one touch for the outside players;‘score with a first time shot’ and restricttouches for older players (14+) with a two orthree touch maximum.

Rotate the teams with the outside playersfrom time to time.

Encourage lots of contacts with the ball,creativity and team discipline.

J8 4 v 4Preparation: Set out an area of 30 x 15yds withsmall goals (1 x1 yd) and a group of twelve players.

Condition: 4 v 4 with four players on the side ofpitch. The four players on the pitch can use the twoside players as support, but restrict the side players to a maximum of two touches. The players on thepitch (4 v 4) have no restriction on touches placed on them. Both teams try to score a goal as in a regular game.




Coaching pointsThis game encourages heading in a fun way and itshould also incorporate movement off the ball.

Allow as many continuous headers as players canachieve to encourage the development ofheading skills, but not catches, players must stickto the head – catch/throw – head sequence.

J9 Head – catch/throw – headPreparation: The diagram shows an area of 40 x30yds for a game of 6 v 6 including goalkeepers. Thearea can be adjusted for larger or smaller groups.

Condition: Firstly, players cannot run with the ball.They must use the sequence of catch/throw/head.Movement off the ball is allowed and a goal is scoredwhen the ball is headed into the net following theabove sequence. For young players goalkeepers arenot essential (just getting them to head for goal will bean achievement in itself!).

The defending team can only intercept in the samesequence: i.e. when the opposition throw the ball,defenders must use their heads to intercept it; if the opposition head it, defenders can catch the ball and so on.



Coaching pointsThis game builds player confidence whenpassing out from the back. It also makes playersbetter aware tactically.

Encourages defenders to break into midfield tocreate overload and to produce better qualityof passes into the midfield and attacking areas.

It helps players become more flexible withpositional interchange as players break intodifferent zones and other team-mates react byfilling in when possession is lost.

J10Three zone game (playingout from the back)Preparation: The diagram shows an area of 60 x40yds for a game of 8 v 8 including goalkeepers.

Condition: Set up the area as shown, marking outthe defensive, midfield and attacking zones with cones.

The game starts with the goalkeeper rolling the ballout to any defender. All three defenders must touchthe ball at least once before passing it into the middlezone. Once in the middle zone the two midfieldplayers try to play into the strikers as quickly aspossible who attempt to score. That is, the goalkeeperpasses to defender A, A passes to B, B passes to C. Ccan now pass into the midfield and passes to D, Dpasses to forward E and E shoots to score.

Progress to: one defender can break into the midfieldzone creating an overload as the ball is passed in, andone midfield can break into attacking zone as the ball ispassed in. Players retreat when possession is lost.

A

B

CD

E


WH 118-128 Section K:WH Section K 21/1/09 10:43 Page 118

For team managers and coaches we must have agreed criteriathat we all work to. These are:

8 v 8 team formations: 2-3-2 or 2-2-311 v 11 team formations: 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 or 4-5-1

Tacticallyf Play forward at every opportunity, if not

– KEEP POSSESSION

f Keep the pitch big when in possession, squeeze and slide together when possession is lost, compact and react quickly.

f All 11 v 11 teams are expected to have set play/dead ball organisation.

f We must encourage and coach our players to beaggressive when defending and creative when attacking.

Technicallyf Practise what you want to happen on the pitch.

f Try to develop player understanding by explaining why a tactic or skill needs to be done.

f Encourage opposed practice as soon as you think theplayers can cope.

f Repetition and practice – develop the technique, develop the understanding.

f Continually revisit previous work.

f Encourage players to always pass ‘safe side’.

Section K

Team Organisation &Code of Conduct

K1 Defending corners 11 v 11 / K2 Defending corners 8 v 8K3Team formations 11 v 11 (4-4-2) / K4Team formations 11 v 11 (4-3-3)K5Team formations 8 v 8 (2-3-2) / K6Team formations 8 v 8 (2-2-3)


Code of conductf 100% effort and commitment is

the minimum requirement (coaches and players).

f Insist on good timekeeping.

f Club kit and tracksuits for training and travel are compulsory.

f No jewellery to be worn during training or matches.

f No mobile phones in the dressing rooms.

f No baseball caps or woolly hats to be worn in the dressing room or canteen area.

f Always ensure football boots are clean atthe start of training sessions or matches.

Coachingf Remember they are OUR players

not MY players.

f Plan every session and make sure everysession has a ‘theme’.

f Be early and allow time for ‘setting up’.

f Be enthusiastic and the players will respond.

f Don’t try to put too much into one session.

f Don’t always show them; ask them to show you!

f Coach the importance of regainingpossession quickly (within four seconds).

f Don’t coach ‘straight’ passing, use angled,diagonal etc.

f Reinforce practice drills in game situations(i.e. phase of play, conditioned games etc).

f Indentify technical faults in players andcorrect by demonstration.

f Try to avoid coaching the player ‘on theball’.

f Ensure that your equipment, balls, bibs,cones and so on, are all in good conditionbefore every session.

f Recognise and coach correct body position.

Principles of playf Can the first pass be a forward one?

f Play the way you are facing (basic principle).

f If there is no space to pass to the feet, canyou pass into the space behind?

f Get your first touch out of your feet (if you don’t pass one touch).

f Try not to let balls bounce (especially in defensive positions).

f Practise instead of preaching!

f Let the players do the talking not you!

f Keep the team compact, push up together, drop off together.

f Mistakes happen – move on quickly – practise to eradicate.

f Set standards of behaviour and play. Make no exceptions.

f It is a team game, you all rely on each other.

f Define positional responsibility andpractise it.

f Give instruction in a positive manner – even when offering criticism.

f Always show a positive attitude.


SECTION K TEAM ORGANISATION & CODE OF CONDUCT

WH 118-128 Section K:WH Section K 4/2/09 10:15 Page 120 WH 118-128 Section K:WH Section K 21/1/09 10:43 Page 121



K1 Defending corners 11 v 11Organise the team as follows: 1 Goalkeeper; 2 markingnear post space; 3 marking inside the far post; 4,5,6,7who are the main markers usually marking theopposition’s tallest players; 8 marks space centrally andmay need to be aware of opposition players standingin front of the goalkeeper; 9 and 10 mark on the edgeof the box and 11 stays up-field hoping to spring acounter attack.

If the opposition send two players out for a shortcorner, defenders 2 (near post) and 10 (edge of box)go out to stop them playing the ball short. However, ifthe ball is played short, 9 must move across the edgeof box to mark 10’s man and leave his own free – hisown man being further from the ball than 10’s!

1

2

3

4 5 6 7

8

910

11


TEAM ORGANISATION & CODE OF CONDUCT 123

K2 Defending corners 8 v 8Organise the team as follows: 1 Goalkeeper; 2 markingnear post space; 3 marking inside the far post; 4,5,6,who are the main markers usually marking theopposition’s tallest players; 7 marks on edge of the boxand 8 stays up-field hoping to spring a counter attack.

1

2

3

4 5 6

7

8




K3Team formations 11 v 11This is the easiest formation to organise and forplayers to understand. It also the formation mostcommonly used. Its strengths are its simplicity, solidnessand the ease with which it is possible to identify faultsand weaknesses.

1

2 34 5

67 8

910

11



K4Team formations 11 v 11This formation can be made more defensive bybecoming 4-5-1 when players 7 and 11 drop into adeeper position alongside 8 and 10.

This system is more flexible and allows for goodinterchange of player positions, particularly those ofmidfield and front players. It can be adapted so thatinstead of player 6 acting as a holding midfielder playerhe adopts a position (as shown on the diagram) as adeeper lying striker.

1

2 34 5

6

7

8

9

10

11

6




K5Team formations 8 v 8Players 2 and 3 are the main defenders; the midfield ismade up of players 4, 5, 6 with 6 and 4 giving widthwhen necessary. 7 and 8 are the main strikers playingas a pair combining and working movement off eachother – i.e. one comes short, one looks to run forward.

1

2 3

4 5 6

7 8



K6Team formations 8 v 8 This is a very attack-minded formation. Again, players 2and 3 are the main defenders who stay central; 4 and 5are central midfield players; 6 and 8 are wide playersworking the line up and back, which leaves 7 as thecentral striker who is supported by runs from the wideplayers (6 and 8). The midfield (4 and 5) makes theteam solid through the middle and relies on 6 and 8 towork defensively in wide areas.

It is important that the central striker 7 is a playergood at holding the ball up and is capable of passingand linking play with the supporting players.

1

2 3

4 5

6 7 8



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