Sometimes we are successful.
Other times we learn.
Learning tends to come before Success.
Wednesday
Position #8 the CM in the 1-4-2-3-1 and 1-4-1-4-1
Thus far in this series we have looked at the Goalkeeper and the Linking Midfielder positions. Keeping with the theme of defining and determining a teams spine we will today look at the #8 position, the Center Midfielder.
The technical considerations for the center midfielder position are similar to those of the linking midfielder. There is a premium placed on playing with an economy and efficiency of touches. A high quality of touch is paramount to maintaining possession and helping to establish his teams rhythm and pace.
Tactically the center midfielder has a blended or dual role in that he must be able to play as both a Linking midfielder and an attacking midfielder - the # 10 position. He is in fact a linking player between the linking midfielder and the attacking midfielder. It is the positioning of this player that determines if a teams formation resembles a 1-4-2-3-1 or 1-4-1-4-1. Ideally, the team's formation will be flexible between the two formations throughout a match. Playing with 2 linking midfielders when defending and two attacking midfielders when in possession of the ball. The center midfielder must be a strong communicator and possess a high soccer IQ to be able to recognize which role his team needs him to fill at any given point in a match. A high level of quality decision making is a mandatory requirement for the position.
From a physical standpoint the linking midfielder must demonstrate both speed and quickness on and off the ball. He needs to possess strength on the ball and a willingness to challenge opponents in all three phases of the game. A blended balance of aggressiveness and discipline is essential.
If the linking midfielder is the hub of the team, it is the center midfielder who is the teams engine. He must a 360 degree player. This player must balance a disciplined approach on defense with being a risk taker on offense. There is a distinct need for this player to be able to cross lines both between the positional units of his team and those of opposing defenses. It is a unique psychological make up and proper consideration must be given to this trait in identifying the player to man this position.
The technical considerations for the center midfielder position are similar to those of the linking midfielder. There is a premium placed on playing with an economy and efficiency of touches. A high quality of touch is paramount to maintaining possession and helping to establish his teams rhythm and pace.
Tactically the center midfielder has a blended or dual role in that he must be able to play as both a Linking midfielder and an attacking midfielder - the # 10 position. He is in fact a linking player between the linking midfielder and the attacking midfielder. It is the positioning of this player that determines if a teams formation resembles a 1-4-2-3-1 or 1-4-1-4-1. Ideally, the team's formation will be flexible between the two formations throughout a match. Playing with 2 linking midfielders when defending and two attacking midfielders when in possession of the ball. The center midfielder must be a strong communicator and possess a high soccer IQ to be able to recognize which role his team needs him to fill at any given point in a match. A high level of quality decision making is a mandatory requirement for the position.
From a physical standpoint the linking midfielder must demonstrate both speed and quickness on and off the ball. He needs to possess strength on the ball and a willingness to challenge opponents in all three phases of the game. A blended balance of aggressiveness and discipline is essential.
If the linking midfielder is the hub of the team, it is the center midfielder who is the teams engine. He must a 360 degree player. This player must balance a disciplined approach on defense with being a risk taker on offense. There is a distinct need for this player to be able to cross lines both between the positional units of his team and those of opposing defenses. It is a unique psychological make up and proper consideration must be given to this trait in identifying the player to man this position.
Planning Practices for Success
One of the questions we are frequently asked is how to train a team for a specific formation and system of play. In my opinion, this is the king consideration to having a successful season, especially in a high school setting. Ohio limits the number of contact days a coach can have with his players out of season and once regular season play gets under way there is precious little time for instruction between preparing for a match, the actual match and a recovery day following the match.
Establishing continuity in your training while also maintaining skill level and addressing tactical concerns is a balancing act many coaches struggle with. Mastering this is also the single most important key to a successful season. My approach is to decide on a formation and system of play then analyze the key tactical components of play that will be required to execute successfully within this framework. Call it reverse engineering of a soccer system of play, if you will.
I then build my season long training themes around these ideas. Using this past spring season as an example I knew the technical components that would be most emphasized in our play were the push pass, crossing the soccer ball and running with the soccer ball. Therefore all technical training throughout the season was grounded in these three areas.
Some type of sequence of touches work was done daily and incorporated into preparation for matches, pre game warm ups and touches on recovery days. The sequence of touches I am referring to involves 2 touch play. Receive with the right foot and pass with the right foot is considered to be Right / Right or R/R. The four sequences of touches are therefore R/R, R/L, L/L and L/R. Breaking lines and its variations were staples of our training as warm up exercises.
Warming up for what?
Playing soccer utilizing a specific system of play, of course. So, the tactical application of the techniques we worked on in warm ups took center stage in our play in practice. From small side games through full sided work we emphasized the sequence of touches. It is critical to receive across the body when utilizing any of the four sequences of touches as this is the basis of combination passing. In fact, the cues for knowing when a specific combination pass is on are often triggered by the receiver's ability to receive the ball across his body.
Combination passing infers the ability to interchange positions so this becomes a central focus in our small-sided and full-side practice play as well. We did a lot of 3 team scrimmaging work to emphasize the four elements of play - Penetration, Depth, Width and Mobility. An example would see 3 teams of 6 players each. Two are active inside an appropriate sized grid with the third team in-waiting around the grid. Upon a team successfully competing "X" number of passes inside the grid they would play to the team outside. Those two teams then interchange positions - the team inside the grid moving to the outside and the team on the outside moving to the inside of the grid. Play is continuous.
Target play and flank play were two of the main tactical themes of our formation and system of play so we built on the above referenced possession game by dividing the squad into two teams. We utilized a large grid of approximately 44 yards wide by 50 yards long. On the top or 44 yard ends we positioned target players and along each side we positioned flank players for each side. No defense allowed outside the grid to begin with. We built this game into allowing targets and wings to interchange (Mobility) with players inside the grid both with and without the ball. This provided us with a realistic depiction of the sometimes chaotic world of spine play and the importance of target play (Penetration) and flank play (Width) to provide space for and allow the spine players room to maneuver in the middle of the pitch. Add in goalkeepers or a defender with the targets and you have Depth. covered as well.
There is continuity of technique and tactical emphasis throughout these progressions that all applies directly to the formational alignment and system of play we utilized. Were there other areas of concern, technical and tactical, that cropped up during the season? Of course, but we incorporated addressing them into the continuity of our practice activities.
With so much active play in our practices we also address the physical aspects of play. One of the best ways to condition for playing a game is ... to play the game! We used a lot of small-sided and full-side team play to condition us for actually playing and by staying consistent with our practice and playing themes we addressed the psychological (confidence) aspects of play as well. We had a plan. We stuck to it and as a result as the players improved their confidence grew. As did the success of our season. 47-8-5 speaks for itself, doesn't it?
Establishing continuity in your training while also maintaining skill level and addressing tactical concerns is a balancing act many coaches struggle with. Mastering this is also the single most important key to a successful season. My approach is to decide on a formation and system of play then analyze the key tactical components of play that will be required to execute successfully within this framework. Call it reverse engineering of a soccer system of play, if you will.
I then build my season long training themes around these ideas. Using this past spring season as an example I knew the technical components that would be most emphasized in our play were the push pass, crossing the soccer ball and running with the soccer ball. Therefore all technical training throughout the season was grounded in these three areas.
Some type of sequence of touches work was done daily and incorporated into preparation for matches, pre game warm ups and touches on recovery days. The sequence of touches I am referring to involves 2 touch play. Receive with the right foot and pass with the right foot is considered to be Right / Right or R/R. The four sequences of touches are therefore R/R, R/L, L/L and L/R. Breaking lines and its variations were staples of our training as warm up exercises.
Warming up for what?
Playing soccer utilizing a specific system of play, of course. So, the tactical application of the techniques we worked on in warm ups took center stage in our play in practice. From small side games through full sided work we emphasized the sequence of touches. It is critical to receive across the body when utilizing any of the four sequences of touches as this is the basis of combination passing. In fact, the cues for knowing when a specific combination pass is on are often triggered by the receiver's ability to receive the ball across his body.
Combination passing infers the ability to interchange positions so this becomes a central focus in our small-sided and full-side practice play as well. We did a lot of 3 team scrimmaging work to emphasize the four elements of play - Penetration, Depth, Width and Mobility. An example would see 3 teams of 6 players each. Two are active inside an appropriate sized grid with the third team in-waiting around the grid. Upon a team successfully competing "X" number of passes inside the grid they would play to the team outside. Those two teams then interchange positions - the team inside the grid moving to the outside and the team on the outside moving to the inside of the grid. Play is continuous.
Target play and flank play were two of the main tactical themes of our formation and system of play so we built on the above referenced possession game by dividing the squad into two teams. We utilized a large grid of approximately 44 yards wide by 50 yards long. On the top or 44 yard ends we positioned target players and along each side we positioned flank players for each side. No defense allowed outside the grid to begin with. We built this game into allowing targets and wings to interchange (Mobility) with players inside the grid both with and without the ball. This provided us with a realistic depiction of the sometimes chaotic world of spine play and the importance of target play (Penetration) and flank play (Width) to provide space for and allow the spine players room to maneuver in the middle of the pitch. Add in goalkeepers or a defender with the targets and you have Depth. covered as well.
There is continuity of technique and tactical emphasis throughout these progressions that all applies directly to the formational alignment and system of play we utilized. Were there other areas of concern, technical and tactical, that cropped up during the season? Of course, but we incorporated addressing them into the continuity of our practice activities.
With so much active play in our practices we also address the physical aspects of play. One of the best ways to condition for playing a game is ... to play the game! We used a lot of small-sided and full-side team play to condition us for actually playing and by staying consistent with our practice and playing themes we addressed the psychological (confidence) aspects of play as well. We had a plan. We stuck to it and as a result as the players improved their confidence grew. As did the success of our season. 47-8-5 speaks for itself, doesn't it?
Tuesday
Thank you!
There was a time when I worked various soccer camps - The Soccer School, The University of Michigan and Findlay University among others. I admit to having sent my sons to these camps as well. Fees for these camps can be rather steep and I often worked in exchange for discounts for my sons participation. It occurred to me that similar quality experiences could be offered for far less cost and the participants could sleep in their own beds and eat home cooking every night. So that is the path I started down several years ago.
It began by conducting goalkeeper camps as that was my specialty. I hold the NSCAA diplomas, State through National and at one time was the only one in our area to do so. I began to receive requests from area coaches to conduct week long summer camps for their high school teams. I also hold various other NSCAA Diplomas and USSF licenses so this seemed a natural progression. I added a team camp to the goalkeeper training instruction I was providing. Word spread of the work I was doing and gradually more and more requests came in for me to conduct camps. This summer has been our busiest to date and I wish to thank all of you who have given us an opportunity to conduct camps for you. We are proud that schools we conduct camps for have us back year after year as we take this to be an indication they are happy with the experience we provide.
The camps continue to be a wonderful experience for us and one we are extremely grateful for. So it is that we thank all who have hosted Conceive Believe Achieve Soccer Camps! We can only hope you have enjoyed the experience as much as we have! Looking forward to seeing you on the pitch!
Timothy J. Brown
Founder and Director of Conceive Believe Achieve Soccer Camps
It began by conducting goalkeeper camps as that was my specialty. I hold the NSCAA diplomas, State through National and at one time was the only one in our area to do so. I began to receive requests from area coaches to conduct week long summer camps for their high school teams. I also hold various other NSCAA Diplomas and USSF licenses so this seemed a natural progression. I added a team camp to the goalkeeper training instruction I was providing. Word spread of the work I was doing and gradually more and more requests came in for me to conduct camps. This summer has been our busiest to date and I wish to thank all of you who have given us an opportunity to conduct camps for you. We are proud that schools we conduct camps for have us back year after year as we take this to be an indication they are happy with the experience we provide.
The camps continue to be a wonderful experience for us and one we are extremely grateful for. So it is that we thank all who have hosted Conceive Believe Achieve Soccer Camps! We can only hope you have enjoyed the experience as much as we have! Looking forward to seeing you on the pitch!
Timothy J. Brown
Founder and Director of Conceive Believe Achieve Soccer Camps
Position #6 The Linking Midfielder in the 1-4-2-3-1 or 1-4-1-4-1
You will find two other articles on this site dealing with the #6 position. This is appropriate and fitting as in today's game this is arguably the most important position on the pitch. In the past the position has been described as a defensive midfielder or a holding midfielder. We have begun calling it the Linking Midfielder.
The Linking Midfielder must be technically proficient and capable of playing with an extreme economy and efficiency of touches. One or two touch play is often the norm. The quality of those touches is vitally important as the linking midfielder must be able to distribute the ball with great accuracy.
Tactically the linking midfielder is a screening player in front of the center backs when his team is without the ball. He should be the teams organizer and communicator. There must be a deep understanding of the different types of defending as they apply to each positional unit and when, where and how to apply or direct application of pressure on the ball.
In the transitional phase of moving from defending to attack it is critical that he possess an understanding of the teams system of play and be a 360 degree player.. He must be able and willing to properly prepare to play the ball at all times while actively seeking the ball. The linking midfielder must possess great game intelligence and a high quality of decision making ability. Creating and changing the rhythm or tempo of the game and understanding when it is necessary to do so are critical weapons for the linking midfielder's repertoire. Distribution or passing skills must be among the very best on the team.
From a physical standpoint the linking midfielder must demonstrate coordination with and without the ball. He should be agile and possess the ability to change pace effectively. He needs to possess strength on the ball and a willingness to challenge opponents in all three phases of the game.
It is the psychological aspects of the linking midfielder that really define the position. Because he is the hub of the team wheel, a 360 degree layer, he must be disciplined, responsible and very poised. The degree of calmness and confidence that he plays with will go a long ways to determining that of his team as well. He must be emotionally stable - never to high, never too low - and remain even keeled whether the game be tied or he finds his team winning or losing. Composure is of the utmost importance. With the goalkeeper, the linking mid is the teams authority on the pitch - an extension of the coach.
Putting it all together.
The primary responsibilities for the linking midfielder are to protect the center backs and to be a link between the backs and the attackers. In this sense he must be a pivot or 360 degree player. Establishing the teams pace and the games rhythm are critical elements of the linking midfielders responsibilities. This occurs on both sides of the ball and in all phases of the game.
Because the linking midfielder will remain centrally located on the pitch and within his teams shape a majority of time he must be able to play competently and confidently facing in any direction. Game intelligence and awareness are essential to his ability to communicate with teammates, organize team shape and direct both the defending and attacking play.
My team refers to the linking midfielder as the Michael Bradley role. Given Bradley's move to an attacking midfielder position in the World Cup this is a bit misleading now, but the idea remains the same. In defending the LM plays advanced of and between the center backs in a protective screening manner. In the attack he often plays between the center backs presenting a back three and allowing the outside defenders to move into the attack. However, he makes calculated and dangerous runs forward to become directly involved in the attacking phase via his distributions or shots on goal.
For more on the Linking Midfielder and his role in the modern game please see Position #6 the Holding or Defensive Midfielder and Evolution in Soccer - the Linking Midfielder.
The Linking Midfielder must be technically proficient and capable of playing with an extreme economy and efficiency of touches. One or two touch play is often the norm. The quality of those touches is vitally important as the linking midfielder must be able to distribute the ball with great accuracy.
Tactically the linking midfielder is a screening player in front of the center backs when his team is without the ball. He should be the teams organizer and communicator. There must be a deep understanding of the different types of defending as they apply to each positional unit and when, where and how to apply or direct application of pressure on the ball.
In the transitional phase of moving from defending to attack it is critical that he possess an understanding of the teams system of play and be a 360 degree player.. He must be able and willing to properly prepare to play the ball at all times while actively seeking the ball. The linking midfielder must possess great game intelligence and a high quality of decision making ability. Creating and changing the rhythm or tempo of the game and understanding when it is necessary to do so are critical weapons for the linking midfielder's repertoire. Distribution or passing skills must be among the very best on the team.
From a physical standpoint the linking midfielder must demonstrate coordination with and without the ball. He should be agile and possess the ability to change pace effectively. He needs to possess strength on the ball and a willingness to challenge opponents in all three phases of the game.
It is the psychological aspects of the linking midfielder that really define the position. Because he is the hub of the team wheel, a 360 degree layer, he must be disciplined, responsible and very poised. The degree of calmness and confidence that he plays with will go a long ways to determining that of his team as well. He must be emotionally stable - never to high, never too low - and remain even keeled whether the game be tied or he finds his team winning or losing. Composure is of the utmost importance. With the goalkeeper, the linking mid is the teams authority on the pitch - an extension of the coach.
Putting it all together.
The primary responsibilities for the linking midfielder are to protect the center backs and to be a link between the backs and the attackers. In this sense he must be a pivot or 360 degree player. Establishing the teams pace and the games rhythm are critical elements of the linking midfielders responsibilities. This occurs on both sides of the ball and in all phases of the game.
Because the linking midfielder will remain centrally located on the pitch and within his teams shape a majority of time he must be able to play competently and confidently facing in any direction. Game intelligence and awareness are essential to his ability to communicate with teammates, organize team shape and direct both the defending and attacking play.
My team refers to the linking midfielder as the Michael Bradley role. Given Bradley's move to an attacking midfielder position in the World Cup this is a bit misleading now, but the idea remains the same. In defending the LM plays advanced of and between the center backs in a protective screening manner. In the attack he often plays between the center backs presenting a back three and allowing the outside defenders to move into the attack. However, he makes calculated and dangerous runs forward to become directly involved in the attacking phase via his distributions or shots on goal.
For more on the Linking Midfielder and his role in the modern game please see Position #6 the Holding or Defensive Midfielder and Evolution in Soccer - the Linking Midfielder.
1-4-2-3-1 The Role of the Goalkeeper.
As promised, I will be writing on the roles for various positions within a 1-4-2-3-1 and 1-4-1-4-1 formations. A teaching moment to begin today's writing: the correct way to designate a formation is to begin with the number 1 as the first in the sequence. Many, perhaps most, times we will see a formation designation that omits the goalkeeper: 4-2-3-1 for instance. Since I will be referring to positions both by name and the number designation they have traditionally had, I will make it a point of emphasis to refer to the goalkeeper as the #1 position and the formation as either 1-4-2-3-1 or 1-4-1-4-1.
Also a word on the two designations for the formation under discussion. I view them as a single formation that takes on a couple of different looks. Since I believe a formational alignment is nothing more than a starting point this makes perfect sense. In fact, I would caution not to get overly caught up in numerical descriptions of formations. A teams shape in the run of play is far more important and our team shape will change and shift based in large part on how the center midfielder labeled with #8 is deployed and utilized, but more on that in future writings.
The goalkeeper is these formations and the accompanying systems of play must play as a Sweeper / Keeper. His is a blended role necessitating the ability to play both with his hands and with his feet. We will look at four man areas sweeper / keepers must be proficient in; technical, tactical, physical and psychological. Each hold equal importance in the role of the sweeper / keeper.
The GK must be technically proficient in playing the ball with both his hands and his feet. The quality of first touch with both hands and feet must be excellent. A ball not fielded cleanly serves a rebound to the opponents. A misplayed ball with the feet can lead directly to a goal.
Once in possession of the ball the GK becomes the first attacker. He must be able to distribute the ball with both his hands and his feet. He must be technical excellent, comfortable and confident in each type of distribution; roll, throw, push pass, laces drive, drop kick and punt.
Tactical considerations include playing without and with the ball. I put those in that specific order because playing without the ball is preparation for playing with the ball. Being in support of or backing up the backs is the GK's first role. He must be well positioned to field opponents through balls with his feet and hands. Quick decisive decisions making and flawless execution are predicated on being properly positioned based on reading the game accurately. He must command and dominate the penalty area and most especially the goal box. These are his domain and intruders - the ball and opponents - are not welcomed.
From a physical standpoint GK's need to possess strength, explosiveness and quickness. Soccer is a physical game and goalkeepers in particular can find themselves in physical confrontations with opponents where they are susceptible to collisions while focusing on playing the ball with their hands. Strong yet soft sure hands are a must. Explosiveness in changing directions and elevating to play high balls should be a prerequisite. Quickness is far more important than speed. The best goalkeepers both anticipate (read the game) and possess quick reactions to unexpected clever payer by opponents and deflections.
The true strength of the goalkeeper position is found in psychology necessary to play the position. The Sweeper / Keeper must have a commanding presence exuding confidence and assurance. Courage is extremely important in his role as the last defender. The ability to organize, lead and communicate is vital. The one trait I prize as highly as any is the ability to give steady consistent emotional performance. A Sweeper / Keeper cannot afford to get too high or too low. He must be the rock that his defense is built on.
Tomorrow we will continue exploring the spine of the formation. The spine are those players whose starting position designated in a formation are centrally located. The center backs, the midfielders and the striker. I intend to take these out of order from that which I have just presented them and move straight to the #6 position - the DM or HM or as I have begun referring to it, the linking midfielder.
Also a word on the two designations for the formation under discussion. I view them as a single formation that takes on a couple of different looks. Since I believe a formational alignment is nothing more than a starting point this makes perfect sense. In fact, I would caution not to get overly caught up in numerical descriptions of formations. A teams shape in the run of play is far more important and our team shape will change and shift based in large part on how the center midfielder labeled with #8 is deployed and utilized, but more on that in future writings.
The goalkeeper is these formations and the accompanying systems of play must play as a Sweeper / Keeper. His is a blended role necessitating the ability to play both with his hands and with his feet. We will look at four man areas sweeper / keepers must be proficient in; technical, tactical, physical and psychological. Each hold equal importance in the role of the sweeper / keeper.
The GK must be technically proficient in playing the ball with both his hands and his feet. The quality of first touch with both hands and feet must be excellent. A ball not fielded cleanly serves a rebound to the opponents. A misplayed ball with the feet can lead directly to a goal.
Once in possession of the ball the GK becomes the first attacker. He must be able to distribute the ball with both his hands and his feet. He must be technical excellent, comfortable and confident in each type of distribution; roll, throw, push pass, laces drive, drop kick and punt.
Tactical considerations include playing without and with the ball. I put those in that specific order because playing without the ball is preparation for playing with the ball. Being in support of or backing up the backs is the GK's first role. He must be well positioned to field opponents through balls with his feet and hands. Quick decisive decisions making and flawless execution are predicated on being properly positioned based on reading the game accurately. He must command and dominate the penalty area and most especially the goal box. These are his domain and intruders - the ball and opponents - are not welcomed.
From a physical standpoint GK's need to possess strength, explosiveness and quickness. Soccer is a physical game and goalkeepers in particular can find themselves in physical confrontations with opponents where they are susceptible to collisions while focusing on playing the ball with their hands. Strong yet soft sure hands are a must. Explosiveness in changing directions and elevating to play high balls should be a prerequisite. Quickness is far more important than speed. The best goalkeepers both anticipate (read the game) and possess quick reactions to unexpected clever payer by opponents and deflections.
The true strength of the goalkeeper position is found in psychology necessary to play the position. The Sweeper / Keeper must have a commanding presence exuding confidence and assurance. Courage is extremely important in his role as the last defender. The ability to organize, lead and communicate is vital. The one trait I prize as highly as any is the ability to give steady consistent emotional performance. A Sweeper / Keeper cannot afford to get too high or too low. He must be the rock that his defense is built on.
Tomorrow we will continue exploring the spine of the formation. The spine are those players whose starting position designated in a formation are centrally located. The center backs, the midfielders and the striker. I intend to take these out of order from that which I have just presented them and move straight to the #6 position - the DM or HM or as I have begun referring to it, the linking midfielder.
The United States in World Cup 2014
The United States Men's National Team enter the 2014 World Cup ranked as the 13th team in the world. When the World Cup is finished they should be ranked in the same general area.
I Believe That We Can Win!
The US Naval Academy cheer taken as it's own by the American Outlaws has become a rallying cry if not the soccer anthem for US Soccer. Reports were the American fans in Brazil far outnumbered those from every other country save Brazil itself. ESPN and overnight Nielson ratings indicate the US matches were among the most watched sporting events ever with more viewers than the recent NBA playoffs, the Rose bowl and other noteworthy events.
In many ways, it appears the United States has finally arrived as a power on the world soccer scene. This is well illustrated by the commentary on an English Soccer podcast that has gone viral on social media.
From the loom of the team and the attitude they brought with them, I think they believe they belong as members of the world soccer scene and that is as important as anything else to take from this World Cup.
Many years ago the notion that America could not only compete with but win the World Cup was conceived. The belief that we can do so has blossomed before our eyes. The next step is to achieve that goal.
I do not wish to put a damper on all the great work done by US Soccer and specifically it's players and coaches, but in my opinion the USMNT still has a ways to go before it can realistically threaten to win a World Cup. We are much improved, good even, but not yet great.
The USMNT entered this World Cup needing great performances from its two best players - Tim Howard and Michael Bradley. You can make a case for other players importance, but these two gentlemen had to have not good, but great performances if the USMNT were to seriously challenge. Howard came through with flying colors. Bradley struggled throughout but played progressively better over the course of the US's 4 matches.
US coach Jurgen Klinsmann made Bradley the center piece of his team. I Believe Landon Donovan was left off because Klinsmann wanted this to be Bradley's team. New coach, new culture. I understand that. However, while I am okay with Donovan being left of the team, I also believe Bradley struggled in part due to Donovan's absence on the pitch. Simply put, Bradley was not up to the task of carry this team on his shoulders by himself. He needed help, but understand what Klinsmann's intentions were - the USMNT needs a world class star in the worst way. Bradley was given the opportunity to ascend to that status. Given Donovan's age, it was a clear choice to make.
I think the same reasoning went into the single forward formations employed by the USMNT. This was to be Jozy Altidore's showcase. Klinsmann did not even roster a similar player. They were going to ride Altidore until he dropped. Unfortunately, Altidore dropped in the first match and Clint Dempsey was thrust into a role he just isn't suited to fill.
This highlights another area that needs shored up before the US can truly be considered established in the world soccer scene - quality depth. The USMNT put a quality 11 on the pitch but to say they were 23 men deep would be a stretch of the imagination. Consider that 5 members of the USMNT were dual nationals - United States and Germany. Klinsmann quite literally scoured the world to find players to his liking. Much of the talent we saw on the pitch was not home grown, per se.
And that is the challenge to be answered before qualifying for the 2018 World Cup begins - developing better home grown talent and uncovering the first world class American soccer star. DeAndre Yedlin or Julian Green anyone?
When I watched the USMNT this World Cup I saw a team that had learned to work far more intelligently and effectively than past US teams had. I saw a team that competed to an extent it probably overachieved in most matches. Klinsmann the tactician was brilliant for the most part - formations utilized, personnel deployed and the general systems of play. The USMNT played to its strengths while hiding its weaknesses fairly well. Possession play really suffered due to these strategies, but the USMNT was at its best defending and counter attacking. Possession soccer or slow builds to attacking play just is not something the USMNT does well namely because it lacks a world class star gal scorer... unless it's Altidore and we may have to wait another 4 years for that answer.
I don't believe the USMNT can afford to be satisfied with its performance although they played well and perhaps above realistic expectations. I understand their being disappointed in being knocked out. I can even appreciate being encouraged by making it through to the knockout round for two consecutive World Cups. There is still much to do before we can declare ourselves to have arrived though.
I am hopeful Klinsmann remains as coach for the next 4 years. I believe we will continue to see an infusion of youth into the USMNT as it prepares for 2018 World Cup qualifying. I think the future is bright. The next steps are to develop or uncover a world class American player the likes of a Messi or Ronaldo or Suarez while also deepening the overall pool of world class talent here in the states.
Time to take another step.
I Believe That We Will take that step and finally move from knocking on the door to kicking the door open as only Americans can to grabbed our spot in the world's soccer spotlight... in 2018!
I Believe That We Can Win!
The US Naval Academy cheer taken as it's own by the American Outlaws has become a rallying cry if not the soccer anthem for US Soccer. Reports were the American fans in Brazil far outnumbered those from every other country save Brazil itself. ESPN and overnight Nielson ratings indicate the US matches were among the most watched sporting events ever with more viewers than the recent NBA playoffs, the Rose bowl and other noteworthy events.
In many ways, it appears the United States has finally arrived as a power on the world soccer scene. This is well illustrated by the commentary on an English Soccer podcast that has gone viral on social media.
From the loom of the team and the attitude they brought with them, I think they believe they belong as members of the world soccer scene and that is as important as anything else to take from this World Cup.
Many years ago the notion that America could not only compete with but win the World Cup was conceived. The belief that we can do so has blossomed before our eyes. The next step is to achieve that goal.
I do not wish to put a damper on all the great work done by US Soccer and specifically it's players and coaches, but in my opinion the USMNT still has a ways to go before it can realistically threaten to win a World Cup. We are much improved, good even, but not yet great.
The USMNT entered this World Cup needing great performances from its two best players - Tim Howard and Michael Bradley. You can make a case for other players importance, but these two gentlemen had to have not good, but great performances if the USMNT were to seriously challenge. Howard came through with flying colors. Bradley struggled throughout but played progressively better over the course of the US's 4 matches.
US coach Jurgen Klinsmann made Bradley the center piece of his team. I Believe Landon Donovan was left off because Klinsmann wanted this to be Bradley's team. New coach, new culture. I understand that. However, while I am okay with Donovan being left of the team, I also believe Bradley struggled in part due to Donovan's absence on the pitch. Simply put, Bradley was not up to the task of carry this team on his shoulders by himself. He needed help, but understand what Klinsmann's intentions were - the USMNT needs a world class star in the worst way. Bradley was given the opportunity to ascend to that status. Given Donovan's age, it was a clear choice to make.
I think the same reasoning went into the single forward formations employed by the USMNT. This was to be Jozy Altidore's showcase. Klinsmann did not even roster a similar player. They were going to ride Altidore until he dropped. Unfortunately, Altidore dropped in the first match and Clint Dempsey was thrust into a role he just isn't suited to fill.
This highlights another area that needs shored up before the US can truly be considered established in the world soccer scene - quality depth. The USMNT put a quality 11 on the pitch but to say they were 23 men deep would be a stretch of the imagination. Consider that 5 members of the USMNT were dual nationals - United States and Germany. Klinsmann quite literally scoured the world to find players to his liking. Much of the talent we saw on the pitch was not home grown, per se.
And that is the challenge to be answered before qualifying for the 2018 World Cup begins - developing better home grown talent and uncovering the first world class American soccer star. DeAndre Yedlin or Julian Green anyone?
When I watched the USMNT this World Cup I saw a team that had learned to work far more intelligently and effectively than past US teams had. I saw a team that competed to an extent it probably overachieved in most matches. Klinsmann the tactician was brilliant for the most part - formations utilized, personnel deployed and the general systems of play. The USMNT played to its strengths while hiding its weaknesses fairly well. Possession play really suffered due to these strategies, but the USMNT was at its best defending and counter attacking. Possession soccer or slow builds to attacking play just is not something the USMNT does well namely because it lacks a world class star gal scorer... unless it's Altidore and we may have to wait another 4 years for that answer.
I don't believe the USMNT can afford to be satisfied with its performance although they played well and perhaps above realistic expectations. I understand their being disappointed in being knocked out. I can even appreciate being encouraged by making it through to the knockout round for two consecutive World Cups. There is still much to do before we can declare ourselves to have arrived though.
I am hopeful Klinsmann remains as coach for the next 4 years. I believe we will continue to see an infusion of youth into the USMNT as it prepares for 2018 World Cup qualifying. I think the future is bright. The next steps are to develop or uncover a world class American player the likes of a Messi or Ronaldo or Suarez while also deepening the overall pool of world class talent here in the states.
Time to take another step.
I Believe That We Will take that step and finally move from knocking on the door to kicking the door open as only Americans can to grabbed our spot in the world's soccer spotlight... in 2018!
Wednesday
Evolution in Soccer - the Linking Mid
In camp settings I strive to impress upon players and coaches alike that soccer is a living breathing entity. As such, the game is constantly changing. The easiest way to depict this is to note how the diamond stopper / sweeper system has faded away with the advent of zonal defending concepts. Yet even as you read this the standard zonal systems are being solved - the game is further evolving.
Teams that played a zonal back four utilized the backs to execute changes of field and often did so with little pressure from opposing forwards. That is, until it was discovered that two, and at times one, opposing forward could disrupt this process. This especially holds true when the outside backs are played advanced in a bowl configuration.
In this regard we have witnessed a zonal back four and the then standard 4-4-2 formation devolve back to 4-3-3 and then evolve into hybrid 4-2-3-1 and 4-1-4-1 formations. Triangle, diamond and box midfields have once again become the norm. It is within the triangle and diamond midfields in particular that the Linking Midfielder role has been (re)established.
The term "linking midfielder" might be new to you but I hardly think I have coined a new descriptive term. This is a defensive mid or holding mid with a more specifically (and broader) role defined. In many ways it is the re-emergence of the Stopper role. Defensively the Linking Mid is charged with protecting the back line and the specifically the center backs. The attacking role for the Linking Mid is as the name infers - to link the back four with the midfielders and forwards. Distributing the ball, changing field and playing teammates in is a critical role for the position. So too is the ability to make foraging runs into the attack.
My teams often refer to this position as the Michael Bradley role. This is true when Bradley is deployed as the defensive or linking mid. He "sits" in an advanced position between the center backs and is used to split the afore mentioned opposing forward(s) who would otherwise disrupt the backs ability to move the ball laterally across the back. By doing so, the back line can continue to function in a forward bowl shape instead of being forced to withdraw the outside backs to provide the depth necessary to defeat the opposing forwards pressure. The linking mid creates a 5 vs 2 (or 3) situation in your favor.
In some ways delegating 5 players to defeat one, two or three might seem a waste of resources, but the linking mid allows the outside backs to come forward and that is the key to creating numbers up situations for your team to exploit in the attack.
This is the key to understanding how soccer evolves - Deployment of resources seeks to create numbers up advantages. The zonal four has had numerical advantages in defending for some time now. This created a real need to get more players forward into the attack. The solution has been to use outside backs to come forward. This can create even numbers for attacking and even give the attackers a man advantage dependent on the manner and timing of deploying the outside back.
The next phase of evolution? Given many teams are going to one traditional forward combining with a false nine I would suspect there could be a move to playing a back 3 instead of a back four. This is not a huge leap if we consider the current bowl configuration of back lines which might be better depicted as 2-3-4-1 or 2-4-3-1 formations. The strength remains down the spine of the pitch and I do not foresee that ever changing. The goals are located along the central spine after all.
Teams that played a zonal back four utilized the backs to execute changes of field and often did so with little pressure from opposing forwards. That is, until it was discovered that two, and at times one, opposing forward could disrupt this process. This especially holds true when the outside backs are played advanced in a bowl configuration.
In this regard we have witnessed a zonal back four and the then standard 4-4-2 formation devolve back to 4-3-3 and then evolve into hybrid 4-2-3-1 and 4-1-4-1 formations. Triangle, diamond and box midfields have once again become the norm. It is within the triangle and diamond midfields in particular that the Linking Midfielder role has been (re)established.
The term "linking midfielder" might be new to you but I hardly think I have coined a new descriptive term. This is a defensive mid or holding mid with a more specifically (and broader) role defined. In many ways it is the re-emergence of the Stopper role. Defensively the Linking Mid is charged with protecting the back line and the specifically the center backs. The attacking role for the Linking Mid is as the name infers - to link the back four with the midfielders and forwards. Distributing the ball, changing field and playing teammates in is a critical role for the position. So too is the ability to make foraging runs into the attack.
My teams often refer to this position as the Michael Bradley role. This is true when Bradley is deployed as the defensive or linking mid. He "sits" in an advanced position between the center backs and is used to split the afore mentioned opposing forward(s) who would otherwise disrupt the backs ability to move the ball laterally across the back. By doing so, the back line can continue to function in a forward bowl shape instead of being forced to withdraw the outside backs to provide the depth necessary to defeat the opposing forwards pressure. The linking mid creates a 5 vs 2 (or 3) situation in your favor.
In some ways delegating 5 players to defeat one, two or three might seem a waste of resources, but the linking mid allows the outside backs to come forward and that is the key to creating numbers up situations for your team to exploit in the attack.
This is the key to understanding how soccer evolves - Deployment of resources seeks to create numbers up advantages. The zonal four has had numerical advantages in defending for some time now. This created a real need to get more players forward into the attack. The solution has been to use outside backs to come forward. This can create even numbers for attacking and even give the attackers a man advantage dependent on the manner and timing of deploying the outside back.
The next phase of evolution? Given many teams are going to one traditional forward combining with a false nine I would suspect there could be a move to playing a back 3 instead of a back four. This is not a huge leap if we consider the current bowl configuration of back lines which might be better depicted as 2-3-4-1 or 2-4-3-1 formations. The strength remains down the spine of the pitch and I do not foresee that ever changing. The goals are located along the central spine after all.
Monday
Action expresses priorities.
As coaches we have all had to deal with the player who talks a good game. He will say all the right things. Then when in the game his actions betray him. TEAM play is ignored in favor of ME play. There is a general refusal to embrace a role within the team concept and the player will act as if the team is present to serve his purposes.
A good video session with players such as this can often go a long way towards rectifying the situation. The player may decide to conform to the team philosophy or the player may seek greener pastures elsewhere if he is stubborn and resistant to learning.
Actions often resound and resonate louder and longer than mere words.
Actions definitely provide a view into a players priorities.
Wednesday
Who is the driving force behind playing?
I want to preface this by stating I am a member of several coaching lists or email groups through which information is exchanged, opinions shared and the like. The member coaches are quote literally from all over the globe and include professional coaches from well known clubs down through the ranks to high school coaches toiling away in small towns across America. I state this so it is understood the people and situations I am about to discuss are not necessarily known personally to me and in this manner their identities are protected.
Situation #1 - At tryouts it was determined a player should be relegated to the clubs second team. The player had participated with the same club for several years and always on the first team. The coaching staff felt as though he had plateaued and not progressed as a player over the course of the last couple of seasons. The player's mother was quite irate and even hostile about her son being relegated to the second team. It was explained to both player and parent there would be ample opportunities to guest play for the first team through the club pass system. It was presented as a best of both worlds situation where the player would actually get to play in more games than had he remained with the first team. Mother was still not happy. The player seemed rather nonchalant about it all. Time and again throughout the season the player was asked to guest play with the first team and more often than not the player refused the invitation. The mother was apparently unaware of the player declining these opportunities
Situation #2 - This actually is two separate but similar situations. In each case a father made the decision to move his son to another club. The only problem was, the son did not want to change clubs. Apparently the fathers had greater visions of grandeur for their sons while the sons were content playing soccer with their friends. In one case the player remained where he had been and in the other case the father forced the son to try out for an academy program, and in so doing lost his spot with the club team he had been with for years. The academy experience did not turn out as expected ... or perhaps as hoped... but probably as could have been anticipated if viewed through unbiased vision.
As I read the exchanges about these players and their parents I could not help but wonder about the parents motivation in each situation. It seems to me the child's wishes were being largely ignored as the parent chased a dream. In situation #1 the player turned down invitations extended to guest play with the first team unbeknown to his mother. All the while the mother was sure her son was being disrespected. It turns out being on a successful soccer team was something mom was far more proud of than the son was. Not only was pride a factor, but identity and self worth were artificially inflated by being associated with "A" team.
Allow that to sink in for a moment.
In the second situation, it was fathers pushing their sons to perceived greater heights than the sons had set their eyes on. The fathers pursued prestige and "better" opportunities for their sons without consulting with their sons as to what the sons wanted. The driving force was seemingly a perception the child was being held back by local circumstances and they needed to move the player to entirely different states to find the right opportunity for their son to excel in.
Allow that to also to sink in for a moment.
There is a third situation that will serve to bring the others into clearer focus. Here we have a sweat drenched individual that spends every possible moment on the pitch with a ball at his feet. He truly loves the game. His passion for soccer runs deeper than anyone elses described here. How do I know this? Because this player has been forbidden to play soccer by his father. This player has to sneak out to the fields and does so with full appreciation that if caught the consequences will be severe. I do know the people under discussion here. The son has another year until he goes out on his own and will be able to play the game whenever he wants. And play he will.
In the first two situations we find parents living through their sons. It is actually the passion of the parents that burns stronger, or at least far differently, than that of their sons. In the third situation it is the child's passion that burns so brightly the parent cannot extinguish it.
Why do the kids play?
With me it was baseball. Evidently my father was a pretty good baseball player. An older brother was spoken of glowingly as a shortstop and pitcher. Me? I never did like baseball, but dad signed me up to play each season. Baseball became a lightning rod in a rather contentious relationship between father and son. Baseball was my father's passion, not mine. I was evidently fairly good at baseball. The middle school and high school coaches tried each spring to convince me to play. I actually made the college team although I declined to play. Trying out for it was more my way of establishing if I was as good as my father thought I was ... or could be. Turning down the opportunity was my way of thumbing my nose at my father even though he had since passed away. I played basketball.
So it is in reading of the situations described above that I wonder what the players are actually thinking. What are their desires, their dreams? Why do they play soccer? And most importantly, have their parents ever discussed this with them?
Situation #1 - At tryouts it was determined a player should be relegated to the clubs second team. The player had participated with the same club for several years and always on the first team. The coaching staff felt as though he had plateaued and not progressed as a player over the course of the last couple of seasons. The player's mother was quite irate and even hostile about her son being relegated to the second team. It was explained to both player and parent there would be ample opportunities to guest play for the first team through the club pass system. It was presented as a best of both worlds situation where the player would actually get to play in more games than had he remained with the first team. Mother was still not happy. The player seemed rather nonchalant about it all. Time and again throughout the season the player was asked to guest play with the first team and more often than not the player refused the invitation. The mother was apparently unaware of the player declining these opportunities
Situation #2 - This actually is two separate but similar situations. In each case a father made the decision to move his son to another club. The only problem was, the son did not want to change clubs. Apparently the fathers had greater visions of grandeur for their sons while the sons were content playing soccer with their friends. In one case the player remained where he had been and in the other case the father forced the son to try out for an academy program, and in so doing lost his spot with the club team he had been with for years. The academy experience did not turn out as expected ... or perhaps as hoped... but probably as could have been anticipated if viewed through unbiased vision.
As I read the exchanges about these players and their parents I could not help but wonder about the parents motivation in each situation. It seems to me the child's wishes were being largely ignored as the parent chased a dream. In situation #1 the player turned down invitations extended to guest play with the first team unbeknown to his mother. All the while the mother was sure her son was being disrespected. It turns out being on a successful soccer team was something mom was far more proud of than the son was. Not only was pride a factor, but identity and self worth were artificially inflated by being associated with "A" team.
Allow that to sink in for a moment.
In the second situation, it was fathers pushing their sons to perceived greater heights than the sons had set their eyes on. The fathers pursued prestige and "better" opportunities for their sons without consulting with their sons as to what the sons wanted. The driving force was seemingly a perception the child was being held back by local circumstances and they needed to move the player to entirely different states to find the right opportunity for their son to excel in.
Allow that to also to sink in for a moment.
There is a third situation that will serve to bring the others into clearer focus. Here we have a sweat drenched individual that spends every possible moment on the pitch with a ball at his feet. He truly loves the game. His passion for soccer runs deeper than anyone elses described here. How do I know this? Because this player has been forbidden to play soccer by his father. This player has to sneak out to the fields and does so with full appreciation that if caught the consequences will be severe. I do know the people under discussion here. The son has another year until he goes out on his own and will be able to play the game whenever he wants. And play he will.
In the first two situations we find parents living through their sons. It is actually the passion of the parents that burns stronger, or at least far differently, than that of their sons. In the third situation it is the child's passion that burns so brightly the parent cannot extinguish it.
Why do the kids play?
With me it was baseball. Evidently my father was a pretty good baseball player. An older brother was spoken of glowingly as a shortstop and pitcher. Me? I never did like baseball, but dad signed me up to play each season. Baseball became a lightning rod in a rather contentious relationship between father and son. Baseball was my father's passion, not mine. I was evidently fairly good at baseball. The middle school and high school coaches tried each spring to convince me to play. I actually made the college team although I declined to play. Trying out for it was more my way of establishing if I was as good as my father thought I was ... or could be. Turning down the opportunity was my way of thumbing my nose at my father even though he had since passed away. I played basketball.
So it is in reading of the situations described above that I wonder what the players are actually thinking. What are their desires, their dreams? Why do they play soccer? And most importantly, have their parents ever discussed this with them?
Saturday
Learning to Win
Many people would rather be certain they're miserable,
than risk being happy.
This is what I mean when writing about learning to win and how some seem more comfortable existing in an established comfort zone than breaking out to explore the entirety of the game... or life. I am reminded of Patrick Swazye's line from the movie Road House, "it's amazing what you can get used to, huh?"
Thursday
When you truly believe in what you are doing,
it shows.
Winners are those who are excited about playing.
It is seen in the urgency of their play.
It is on display in their passion for the game.
There is an understanding
that any game might be their
final time on the pitch
and there is a dedication and determination
to make the last and lasting memory
a GREAT one.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)