Take the Favourite Formations of Soccer's

www.elitesoccercoaching.net Seven complete Tony Pennock soccer blueprints Hull City from top coaching The forgotten position in all experts formations David Adams Alex Inglethorpe Swansea city Liverpool Defending using the 4-4-2 Exploiting counter-attack diamond opportunities Gareth Prosser John McDermott Wolves Tottenham hotspur Attacking principles in a Defending the 4-2-3-1 formation counter-attack Mark Sampson england women’s team Attacking in a 4-4-2 Soccer diamond Coaching practices from the world’s leading managers and coaches Darren Sarll Stevenage Regaining possession against teams playing through the lines

TACTICAL MASTERCLASS TAKE the favourite formations of soccer’s master tacticians onto the pitch In partnership with ALL NEW SESSIONS FOR THE 2014/15 season Soccer ELITE SOCCER tactical MASTERCLASS CONTENTS

Elite Soccer is published by: Detailed and dynamic tactical plans from British football’s most T5AC ICAL BRIEFING: Formations Green Star Media Ltd innovative club coaches Meadow View, Tannery Lane Guildford, Surrey, GU5 0AB, UK hank you very much for purchasing this, our second special Elite Soccer 11 Tel: +44 (0) 1483 892 894 issue of 2014. ALEX INGLETHORPE T LIVERPOOL Fax: +44 (0) 1483 894 148 Football, as we know it today, is probably more open to tactical thinking than Exploiting Email: at any time in the past. Not only are the game’s wealth of coaches looking for [email protected] every possible way of searching out an advantage on the pitch, but television counter-attack ISBN: 978-1-910338-31-5 and print media pundits now go to incredible lengths in explaining the whys opportunities and wherefores of what happens when the referee’s whistle blows. Editor: James Evans It’s for that reason we’ve been really excited to put together this Elite Soccer: Contributing Editor: Tactical Masterclass. To a level never before explored, we’re drilling down into J16OHN McDERMOTT Matthew Amos, LMA the core detail of how teams set up, the specifics of player movement and the TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR Illustrator: philosophies of clubs when it comes to empowering their stars of the present Defending the Richard Palmer and future. Customer Services: counter-attack Duncan Heard The issue is packed full of unique insight. It showcases a variety of formations, Soccer Marketing: moves, structures and ideas, looks at how teams can exploit and restrict key Joe Buzzard, Justin Vaiciulis passages of play, and highlights the true positions of influence on a football 21 Operations Director: field. It embraces the minute detail that can offer the belief and confidence for TONY PENNOCK Toby Curthoys keepers, defenders, midfielders and attackers to fulfil their potential, and all HULL CITY Managing Director: backed by some of the best coaches in the campaign, including four from the The forgotten Andrew Griffiths Barclays Premier League and a national team manager. Photos: Action Images position in all So from Liverpool, Academy Director Alex Inglethorpe unveils a complete formations Published in partnership with: session for exploiting counter-attack opportunities, while his former colleague, Tottenham Hotspur’s Academy Manager and Head of Coaching John McDermott, approaches from the other side, explaining how to defend 24 against a fast-paced transition. John has also produced for us a detailed DAVID ADAMS League Managers insight into the coaching philosophy at Spurs – it’s a fascinating revelation into SWANSEA CITY Association why the north London club has produced so much homegrown talent in recent Defending St George’s Park National Football Centre years. using the 4-4-2 Newborough Road Hull City Academy Manager Tony Pennock presents a unique session diamond Needwood highlighting the forgotten position in all formations – that of the keeper. Burton upon Trent DE13 9PD Meanwhile, David Adams, Head of Coaching at Swansea City, explores how to Tel: +44 (0)1926 831 556 defend in a 4-4-2 diamond. The antidote to that – how to use the diamond for 28 Email: [email protected] purposeful attacking play – comes from England women’s team manager GARETH PROSSER President: WOLVES Roy Hodgson Mark Sampson, while Wolves Academy Manager Gareth Prosser looks at Attacking Chairman: attacking principles in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Howard Wilkinson To complete a tremendous set of seven engaging sessions that express the principles Chief Executive: highest level of modern tactical insight from those at the top of their game, in a 4-2-3-1 Richard Bevan Stevenage Academy Manager Darren Sarll explains how teams can effectively formation regain possession against opponents who play through and between the lines. This publication is protected by national and international As always, we hope you can take the time to maximise what’s confined in this copyright laws. Elite Soccer will special issue. We’d love to hear your feedback and that of your players. 33 take legal action against any MARK SAMPSON individuals or organisations ENGLAND WOMEN’S found to be infringing our rights, FOOTBALL TEAM and will make that action public. Enjoy your football, Attacking in a Elite Soccer members who have purchased this report may 4-4-2 diamond circulate electronic or hard copies to members of their own club or school, provided this is done without commercial gain. 36 However, no part or whole of Howard Wilkinson DARREN SARLL this report may be circulated STEVENAGE elsewhere or displayed on any website or distributed Regaining commercially except under Elite Soccer is a monthly publication for professional, licence from the copyright owners. possession © Green Star Media Ltd. All rights semi-professional and aspiring soccer coaches and against teams reserved is available by subscription only. £97 for 12 issues. that play through and To subscribe email [email protected] between the or call on+44 (0) 1483 892 894 lines

3 ELITE SOCCER: THE tactical MASTERclass www.elitesoccercoaching.net ELITE SOCCER tactical MASTERCLASS profiles Meet our fantastic cross-section of expert coaches for this Elite Soccer: Tactical Masterclass...

Alex Inglethorpe John McDermott David Adams Liverpool Tottenham Hotspur Swansea City Alex Inglethorpe is the Academy John McDermott is Academy David Adams was appointed as Director at Liverpool, charged Manager at Tottenham Hotspur. Swansea City’s Head of Coaching with developing an environment in He has a wealth of experience in in May 2014, leaving his post as which players and staff can thrive, the game having started at Leeds a Principal Lecturer in Football and overseeing a style of play that United in 1989 as Community Coaching and Performance at the mirrors Brendan Rodgers’ senior Officer, before managing University of South Wales. team. Watford’s first Football in the A lifelong Swansea fan, he holds Alex joined the club as Under-21s Community Scheme in 1991 and the UEFA Professional Licence coach in November 2012 having latterly becoming the club’s Youth and an MSc in Coaching Science, worked for the previous six years at Development Officer. and is currently completing a Tottenham Hotspur. Prior to that, Joining the Football Association PhD. Additionally, he has 10 years’ the 42-year-old was manager at as a regional coach then National experience delivering elite level Exeter City, memorably shutting Football Development Officer coach education courses as well out Manchester United in the FA saw him launch a wealth of as developing a variety of other Cup at Old Trafford, and as a player grass roots initiatives, before he development initiatives. starred for City, Leyton Orient, rejoined Watford as Academy He previously worked with Wales Barnet and Watford. Director. He returned to the FA as Youth national teams as well as Alex is a passionate and forward- a National Coach – overseeing coaching in the senior game in the thinking coach who has also England squads from Under-16s Welsh Premier League. managed the England National to Under-21s – before landing Game XI. at Spurs, where his prolific work continues to see the next breed of talented youngster emerge from the Academy structure.

Tony Pennock Gareth Prosser Mark Sampson Darren Sarll Hull City Wolves England women’s team Stevenage Tony Pennock has been Academy Gareth Prosser was appointed Mark Sampson is England When Darren Sarll returned to Manager at Hull City since Wolves Academy Manager in July Women’s Head Coach, a role he Stevenage in June 2012 it saw the February 2014, having previously 2013, having been part of the club’s took on from the end of 2013. experienced youth coach come held the same role – and that of youth set-up for the previous five The 32-year-old looks out on what full circle, having started out at the first-team goalkeeping coach – at years. He has been responsible promises to be a brilliant new era Hertfordshire club as a community Swansea City for five-and-a-half for helping to put a holistic for the global women’s game, and coach. years. programme of development in takes into the role a wealth of club Sarll progressed through the Tony, who is currently studying place including more contact time experience in both the women’s ranks – from coaching Under-16s, for an MSc at the University of for the players, and over the last and men’s game. At the time of to the Centre of Excellence, the South Wales in Performance two years, development of the going to press, he held a 92% win Under-18s and then reserve team Coaching, has also worked for Elite Player Performance Plan, percentage as national team manager before departing for the Football Association of Wales resulting in the Wolves Academy manager. Brentford in June 2008 where he as coach educator, and enjoyed achieving Category One status. Mark previously worked under worked as youth team manager a long playing career, being first Prosser previously worked at the Roberto Martinez as manager and worked within the senior choice goalkeeper for the likes of Football Association of Wales (as of the Swansea City’s Centre management team to help guide Stockport County, Wigan Athletic, Football Development Officer and of Excellence. He moved on to the club to the League Two title. Hereford United, Yeovil Town and coach), as well as the Derby County manage Bristol Academy in the Moving on to Rotherham United in a Rushden & Diamonds. He has also and Tranmere Rovers academies. Women’s Soccer League, leading similar role, he guided the direction represented and managed the the side to a second place finish of the Academy whilst once more Wales semi-professional squad. as well as two FA Cup finals and working with the first-team players double European qualification. on a daily basis.He returned to Stevenage as Head of Youth at the start of the 2012/13 season.

4 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERclass www.elitesoccercoaching.net formations Tactical briefing The Tactical Masterclass sessions that follow all have a base in formations, so to ensure players and coaches have a firm grasp on the basics of a formation and its foundation for the tactical insight that lays on top, we have outlined over the coming pages a cross-section of the most popular in the game, with comment from coaches and managers who utilise them.

Key Two strikers, often Ball movement set up as a ‘big man Player Use of ‘proper’ and small man’ movement 4-4-2 and wingers Dribble 4-4-1-1

Midfielders having to work ‘box to box’

Two banks of four playing horizontally

Compared to 4-4-2, one striker is now withdrawn or ‘in the hole’ (and usually a technical, creative player)

Popularised by: Disadvantages British sides during the 1970s and 1980s and Jurgen Two strikers will frequently be outgunned in the centre if Klopp’s Borussia Dortmund outfit. Klopp said, “We were not supported by midfielders or wingers pushing into the the first German team to play 4-4-2 without a libero box, while midfielders must be of a certain mould given (centre-back). We used to think before then that if the other the demands on them to bring the ball from one end of the players are better, you have to lose.A fter learning from pitch to the other. Arrigo Sacchi we found that anything is possible – you can Popularity beat better teams by using tactics.” Key position WIDESPREAD

Central midfield – these players are ‘box to box’ in trying to 4-4-2 provide tacit links between defence and attack.

Advantages RECOGNISED Use of traditional wingers who stay wide to offer attacking intent. 4-4-1-1 Ability to use two attackers side by side or to split them to form two lines of attacking play, meaning one sits ‘in the UNCOMMON hole’ and the other in an advanced position (as a 4-4-1-1). 1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s Present Day

5 ELITE SOCCER: TACTICAL MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net tactical briefing formations

Key Ball movement Player movement 4-4-2 Dribble Strikers likely to play diamond off one another

Wing-backs moving forward to support narrow midfield whilst obeying defensive duties

Midfielders in the diamond likely to rotate

Two central defenders

Popularised by: Disadvantages “This formation actually stems from what was a 4-2-4 Narrow midfield means opposition attacks on the flanks system used by great Brazilian and Real Madrid sides are likely. of the past,” says Don Howe, former England manager. “The diamond has come back into fashion of late for Popularity the way it incorporates so many different types of WIDESPREAD midfielders, which is crucial in the modern game.” Key positions Full-backs – because the midfield is a narrow diamond (relative to the width of the pitch) the pressure is on full- RECOGNISED backs to move forward and provide width and attacking intent on the flanks. Deep-lying midfielder – someone like Claude Makelele was “the destroyer” in this role, while for others it’s a deep playmaking area where passes can be spread from. UNCOMMON 1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s Present Day Advantages An adaptive formation depending on whether a team is attacking or defending. Displays strength in midfield, width across the pitch and solidity.

6 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net tactical briefing formations

Key Ball movement Wingers conditioned Player to consistently make movement 4-3-3 and Dribble forays forward Three-pronged and 4-5-1 dangerous attack

Back four with full-backs slightly further forward

Lone and typically isolated striker

As a triangle, the holding central midfielder sits above the four defenders Two attackers will drop back when the team is defending, to make a 4-5-1

Popularised by: Disadvantages Famous West Germany and Netherlands teams of the It can be seen as very defensive when morphing into a 1970s when playing ‘Total Football’.A lso favoured by Jose 4-5-1 with the two front players dropping into midfield. In Mourinho during his first stint at Chelsea. He said “With a addition, the lone striker must be well supported or his 4-3-3 formation, space is perfectly occupied naturally; it isolation could encourage him to drop back towards the isn’t necessary for the players to be intelligent. They don’t middle five in order to receive play. have to think too much. With a 4-4-2 they are required to think because the field is occupied irrationally; no one is Popularity naturally open.” WIDESPREAD Key position Wingers – the workhorses of the formation.A lthough their defensive duties are small, they will either provide 4-3-3 genuine attacking options in the 4-3-3 or solidity to the RECOGNISED midfield in the 4-5-1.A specialist defensive midfielder is also useful when playing a regimented 4-3-3. 4-5-1 Advantages Very fluid – 4-3-3 when attacking can become 4-5-1 in UNCOMMON defence, but within the 4-3-3, it can be played out with a 1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s Present Day triangular midfielder (to offer a holding midfielder and two offensive midfielders), or a flat one for more solidity. With 4-5-1 you have defensive solidity and good pressing options for turnovers.

7 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net tactical briefing formations

Key Ball movement Player movement 4-2-3-1 Dribble Lone striker needs to have either presence or speed

The ‘enganche’ (the player who sits at the top of the diamond) drops into available space in order to link play

Wingers must support lone striker as well as tracking opposition full-backs

Wing-backs tasked with moving forward

Popularised by: Disadvantages Juanma Lillo (mentor to Pep Guardiola); “4-2-3-1 gives The lone striker can become ineffectual with the wrong me the best spread of players all over the pitch. It is the role, or if denied the right service. most versatile and most beautiful of formations, offering Heavy reliance on attacking midfielders and a technically ways to protect and ways to create in equal measure.” competent playmaker in general. Key position Popularity Lone striker – typically tall or powerful in order to hold up the ball long enough for supporting midfielders and WIDESPREAD wingers to join the attack. In other (rarer) instances, this could be a fast player who challenges defenders, thus leaving space behind for supporting team mates.

Advantages RECOGNISED Flexible, with the formation offering ‘double sixes’ - a back six of 4-2 or front six of 2-3-1 - which means solidity as well. Potency in attack – lots of difference attacking elements – UNCOMMON with solidity in defence. 1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s Present Day Particularly effective against narrow formations and when defending a counter-attack.

8 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net tactical briefing formations

Key Ball movement Player movement 3-4-3 Dribble

One central striker and two wide strikers

Four-man midfield with centre- midfielders sitting deeper

Three-man exposed defence but centrally placed

Popularised by: Disadvantages The 3-4-3 formation was successfully used by Liverpool It often leaves the defence exposed as there are only three manager Rafa Benitez in the second half of the 2005 designated defensive players. This happens particularly Champions League final againstA C Milan, as the when transitions invite the other team to counter-attack, Merseysiders came back from 3-0 down to force extra- given that upon winning the ball they have already made it time. past three outfield opponents. Key position Popularity Midfielders – must always have an eye on the WIDESPREAD undernourished backline behind them, being ready to drop to support defensive efforts. Clear instructions to these players is a must. Advantages RECOGNISED Real attacking intent, with three offensive players as well as supporting midfielders and wingers.A useful formation for a side looking simply to ‘out score’ the opposition. UNCOMMON 1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s Present Day

9 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net tactical briefing formations

Key Ball movement Player movement 3-5-2 Dribble

Two almost parallel strikers

Wingers work from the midway point forward

Packed midfield area, typically including an offensive midfielder and two defensive midfielders

Popularised by: Disadvantages Germany, during 1990 World Cup and Euro 96 As with the 3-4-3, the defence is left exposed because tournament wins, while Louis van Gaal successfully there are only three designated men in place. That employed the formation with his Netherlands side: “It is should still leave at least one spare man against a formation that needs to be learnt – not just by defenders most strikeforces, but the defensive line does require but the whole outfield,” he said. “The back line offers the experience and communication, usually from the middle most insecurity, but when solving that you open up so defender, who must also be confident and competent in much more potential further forward. It’s a very exciting playing forward. formation and I’m glad it has come back.” Popularity Key position Wingers – rarely will they drop back into defence as WIDESPREAD having three centre-backs will free these players from most defensive duties, but the premise is on them to stimulate and be a part of attacks. Advantages RECOGNISED Five across the middle of the park means teams can ‘strangle’ the midfield, creating attacking threat as well as doing a lot to protect what is a light defence.A nd three covering the immediate goal area is a formidable UNCOMMON obstacle to shoot past. 1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s Present Day

*Sources: Elite Soccer contributing coaches and archives

10 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net alex INGLETHORPE ACADEMY DIRECTOR l iverpool

The key elements of the session: Exploiting • Anticipation • S peed of passing counter- • Support attacking principles

Overview The very nature of counter-attacking deals with making small windows of opportunity to exploit situations presented to you. It’s about asking players to run, pass and support quickly, with a clarity of thought and decision-making required to underpin the key principles. And allied to this is executing attacking techniques using maximal sprints. To master this is to conquer what is arguably one of the most difficult things in the game. So this session begins with laying down the key ideas behind counter-attacking, progressing into small-sided game situations before concluding with an 11v11 scenario that invites players to put into practice everything they have learnt up to that point. My training philosophy is to prepare, recognise and act upon tactical clues as training and match day situations progress, and the structure of this session gives us the best opportunity to thoroughly prepare players for the challenges that counter- attacking situations provoke.

SET-UP Area Up to a full pitch Equipment Balls, cones, goals, mini-goals Session time Key principles 20mins, Small-sided game 20mins, 11v11 20mins

11 ELITE SOCCER: TACTICAL MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net alex inglethorpe liverpool Exploiting counter-attacking principles

Key Ball movement Player Laying down key movement Dribble Optional pass/ principles run

To begin, I cement key principles for defenders. After all, once the attacker understands how the defender is trying to solve a situation for his own benefit, it becomes easier to coach the principles around the attacking elements.. This information is as relevant for attackers looking to exploit a situation as it is those protecting a goal. So everyone needs to be aware that it is defenders’ intention to… 1 Delay - slow down the attack 2 Isolate... his 1v1 or make the play predictable 3 Predict - make the play predictable The server begins the practice, lofting the ball up for a header by So the move starts with the ball being put up for a defender, which the attacker a header, and one defender heads it towards receives and moves forward with the forwards. He must then sprint around the mannequin, thus leaving a small window of opportunity for attackers to come forward in a 2v1 situation against the remaining defender.

Now with the attackers moving forward 2v1, the lone defender will try to anticipate the ball to the spare player given that he knows he is outnumbered. He must angle his body accordingly, ready to go once the ball is passed. Tactically, his mindset is to ‘control the moment’, even though he doesn’t have the ball. Attackers are working at angles and looking to combine awareness of how far ahead the goal is with preparing the territory With the defender needing to for a pass or shot. run around the mannequin at the bottom of the practice, attackers have a 2v1 situation against the remaining defender

The question for the working attacker is a simple one – can he manipulate the ball to turn the defender’s feet, thus committing him in the direction away from the supporting player before making the killer pass? The decision is made not only by the attacker; it also relies on what the defender decides is his priority – to cover the player in possession or the spare man. So based on this and the defender’s actions, the attacker must choose whether to pass, or whether he believes he has the beating of his opponent in a 1v1 situation. The attacker in possession must decide whether to take on his man or feed his supporting team mate, and this decision will be influenced by his ability to ‘turn’ the defender’s feet

12 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net alex inglethorpe liverpool Exploiting counter-attacking principles Small-sided counter-attacking game

Setting up as shown on So the red team’s objective is to anticipate any emerging in which to pass forward. a 40x30-yard area with a to circulate the ball to retain threat, pressing to regain Players must be committed 20x20-yard central box, this possession, using the two possession. Once the regain to breaking lines and flooding is a counter-attacking game outside (grey) players for is made, whites can counter in forward to support, being that puts into practice some support if necessary. Once to either goal to score. ruthless in their finishing and of the principles covered. Its reds have completed 15 What are the key things to changing the ‘point’ of the design is to provoke multiple passes they can score into look out for? attack in order to make it less counter-attacks as well as any of the four mini-goals as a linear – and therefore less This is a quick turnover game, offering alternative scoring reward for retaining the ball. obvious – to defenders. so teams in possession must options. The white team’s objective is exploit the small timeframe

Key Ball movement Player movement Dribble

“My training Liverpool’s counter-attacking excellence Last season, Brendan Rodgers’ Liverpool scored more goals from philosophy counter-attacks than in the previous four seasons combined, with is to prepare, 33% of breaks ending in reward. recognise and Liverpool’s total was better than any other Premier League team in the past five seasons, trumping the efforts of Arsenal and act upon tactical Manchester City (31% and 27% respectively, both in the 2009/10 clues as training season). Season Counter attack Total goals Conversion and match shots per game day situations 2013/14 0.8 9 33% progress.” 2012/13 0.7 1 3% 2011/12 0.6 3 13% 2010/11 0.5 3 17% 2009/10 0.5 4 23%

13 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net alex inglethorpe liverpool Exploiting counter-attacking principles

Key Ball movement Player 11v11 game movement This is an 11v11 game on a full pitch, with reds Dribble setting up in a medium to low block, prepared to defend a bit deeper and surrender the initiative. The other team – the whites – has the ball, and will always be served it for any restarts. Their objective for attackers is to find a way through the block to score. To do this they need to combine accurate and measured penetration with alertness and patience.

Reds have set up with an intentional low block in order to invite whites forward

Whites also look to defend with a high line, indicated by the two poles marking an imaginary horizontal line across the pitch, just past halfway. They cannot defend past this line once the opposition penetrates it. The objective is for reds to regain the ball and counter-attack.

Upon stealing possession, reds feed short passes in the crucial middle section on their way to maximising counter-attacking threat

Questions to ask your possible to play forward? Is forward they are playing “Upon the players it possible to zigzag a way to. Who in the team do we regain, can The first question is through the middle line to want to break the final players carry one that asks players to the spare player (it’s 2v1 line? Who is the player mentally prepare for an in the middle) in order to most capable of doing this? the ball out of event that may happen initiate the counter? From These are all decisions that – simply, can attackers here, I’m looking for the players need to make… the pressure anticipate the opportunity player to decide whether to and they’ll be made both zone with quick to counter before regaining carry the ball or pass into before the match itself and the ball? Upon the regain space. in split-seconds as play passes?” can players carry the ball As the counter-attack develops in front of them. out of the pressure zone continues, players must with quick passes? Is it know what types of

14 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net alex inglethorpe liverpool Exploiting counter-attacking principles

Key Ball movement Player movement Moving on, can attackers flood forward to Dribble support the attack and create more than one choice for the man in possession? For supporting players, this is all about maximal sprinting whilst remaining onside.

Red players flood forward in support of the counter-attack And when moving forward to the point of the release, I want to see perfection in the final pass. While travelling at speed with the ball can be a difficult technique to execute, it is one that comes with practice and attention. Similarly, receiving skills at speed and finishing when under pressure are all technical qualities that need to be practised and perfected in a training environment if they are to be repeated under pressure and fatigue in the real game.

Playing a precise final pass while moving at pace is a skill that must be mastered if reds are to move players clear on goal whilst also remaining onside

What are the key things to dribbled out or cleared? defenders’ intentions in order If the counter-attack does look out for? I want to see quick forward to unlock from that situation stay alive, the final pass Throughout counter- passes – players must sprint and find supporting players. must be perfect and precise, attacking play, I’m expecting with the ball whilst still being Of course, players must and of course the ultimate players to be able to anticipate alert to everything going on recognise when a counter- completion of a counter- the opportunity. Next I around them, and with team attack is over - when the attacking situation is with a want to see how the regain mates flooding forward in moment has gone. They would positive finish past the keeper. comes about – a tackle or support. At this point the then go into a second phase of And finally, players behind the interception, and how then defender is likely to want to possession, probing with the ball must be awake to the risk does the ball emerge out from lock the attacker into one side, ball and looking to use it in a that your own counter-attack a defensive position... by being so it’s important to recognise different way. might end up being countered.

15 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net john Mcdermott ACADEMY MANAGER t ottenham hotspur

The key elements of the session: Defending • Coaching philosophy • Playing the counter- philosophy • Positioning attack • Technique

Overview This is a session broken down into two parts. In its tactical ‘take out’ it explores how to defend against the counter-attack, isolating player movement, approach, technique and philosophy. But in a bigger sense, this is also a session about player habits and the mental approach we instill in all of our Academy players that, we hope and expect, they will take through into senior development. This is a blueprint, therefore, that explains the approach to what we do, as well as how we do it, advising on structure, tactical objectives, player attributes, and how we expect players to embrace ideas, whether they are using counter-attacking principles or not.

SET-UP Area Up to a full pitch Equipment Balls, cones, goals Session time 60 mins

16 ELITE SOCCER: TACTICAL MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net john mcdermott TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR Defending the counter-attack Player development and philosophy from the Tottenham Hotspur Academy

have a great respect for around 1992, working with the real tactical experts RISING THROUGH THE RANKS limited resources. Kenny Iof the game, who are Former Spurs Academy Current Spurs Academy would set up our Under-18s able to read the dynamics products to have appeared players playing elsewhere with a young David Connelly, and subtleties of football in the BarclaysP remier on loan who would go on to have a on the touchline with all the League for the club this (first three months of long and successful club surrounding pressures. In season 2014/15 season) career which included recent years I have spoken (first three months of Jordan Archer playing 41 times for the with Brendan Rodgers, Alan 2014/15 campaign) (at Northampton Town) Republic of Ireland. Kenny Irvine, Sean Dyche, Steve Danny Rose Tom Carroll saw huge potential in David, (at Swansea City) Holland, Kenny Jackett, Andros Townsend wanting to give him the best Tim Sherwood and, more Grant Ward chance of getting the ball (at Chicago Fire) recently, with Mauricio Harry Kane and shining in the areas in Ryan Mason Alex Pritchard (at which he needed to become Pochettino about how they Brentford) construct their teams and Nabil Bentaleb a specialist. Sometimes Ryan Fredericks this was to the detriment look to manage the game (at Middlesbrough) and create a positive result. of the team structure, and the result on Saturday, but They talk about their it was a powerful lesson for tactical responsibilities as me. It was about working expert first-team coaches to the needs of the players differently to me. I hope I am with best potential, not no less conscientious in my necessarily protecting the job but our interpretation of weakest link or eliminating tactics differs in a subtle but the opposition’s best player. important way. So what does a tactical As a soccer coach, my session look like in my reading of the game isn’t world of youth and player overly concerned with how development at Tottenham the opponents have set up or Hotspur? Firstly we do have changes they’re making. a structure and principles I am, for 95% of the time, according to how we play. concentrating on our There is also a terminology players, and how they are which has evolved at our doing in the game, whether club, which is not meant to or not they’re improving be high-brow in any way, but in their necessary areas establishes common terms of development, whether for the players and staff. they are being effective and The structure is not random becoming more expert. chaos, particularly because A 2-0 victory can feel one action can often impact disastrous for me on a on the balance of another. Saturday night if our A This is why I think a truly grade players were poor, elite football coach’s job is the opposition had the so difficult in sensing the best players and the rate of League footballers. As others enjoyed successful slight imbalances then improvement of our own an example, last year’s loan spells in the Football dealing with the necessary appears to be regressing. disappointing Tottenham League. For our Academy, adjustments. I desperately want to win Hotspur Under-21s league this made it a winning But the framework isn’t matches, but my long- placing was offset by the season. the priority for me. I was term objective is to get fact Harry Kane and Nabil once given a remarkable young players to become Bentaleb made significant I learned this very quickly one-to-one masterclass by professional footballers progress in the first-team, under the expert guidance former England manager and, ideally, Premier while Alex Pritchard and of Kenny Jackett at Watford Don Howe on the steps

17 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net john mcdermott TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR Defending the counter-attack

of Lancaster Gate in 1996 how we play the game The tactical objectives we outline for each player: as he danced around with versus how the opponents two-foot high traffic cones • Understand and know what type of player you are; make sure will look to play; and the in his hands explaining how your strengths are extreme to get you in the team and that your ultimate balance ofdoing weaknesses are at a level that don’t get you out of it Gareth Southgate and Paul what is best for the best Ince needed to be rotating to • Understand unit and team perception and intelligence… in players and prioritising other words, be able to anticipate and see the picture play out, before he went into winning in the long-term. Understand the detailed job description for your position in the detailed tactical role of •  The reason I have all the other nine positions in all tactical phases of the game. Also appreciate the subtleties of how changes in formations - whether tactical or through explained the Tottenham England’s Euro 96 team. rotation - impact on your role and positioning Hotspur philosophy is Instead, the onus of our • Understand the job description of other roles, especially when because it is in this context match preparation is on our rotating or recovering into another position for what may be a that I present the following players (not the positions), critical 60- or 90-second period in the game practice on the theme imposing our style on the • Understand how to gain a personal, unit and team tactical of winning the ball back opponent and seeking advantage by assessing your opponents’ strengths and after losing it when the to dominate the ball but weaknesses, and adapt accordingly opponent has got forward predominantly individual • Do the maths! Work out where the spare men are on the pitch (if momentum. Within this players exhibiting their any) and find a way to exploit or deny the overload phase of play, we accept we improving specialisms as • Understand the smell and feel of the game, the game state and may be outnumbered - a makers, scorers or stoppers its rhythm, and be able to quicken or slow, shorten or lengthen part of the game we refer to of goals. • Obviously these tactical objectives are inseparably entwined as ‘counter defending’. Other than the first-team, with a player and his team’s physical, mental and technical In my opinion, the use of our Tottenham Hotspur attributes, and in every session I would hope these objectives outnumbered practices is sides are in constant flux. are considered very important, especially An opportunity to train with • I want our players to have the tactical attributes of the ‘special for quick and athletic the first-team or go out on forces’ who are able to think on their feet, adapt and deal with players as it trains their a good loan takes priority whatever is thrown at them rather than have a pre-arranged brains to prioritise, and plan which will be carried out irrespective of the circumstances at the senior youth level. restricts them from just on the ground. If ever any of our players went elsewhere (on relying on ‘turbo’ at a young If it is in the interest of our loan or on international duty) and said, “We don’t do it like that at best players we look to do it, Tottenham,” I’d expect them to be sent straight back to us, and age. even if it weakens a team at without the bus fare! Adapt or die! Within all of these Spurs. Andros Townsend and practices I place a big Jonathan Obika were sent emphasis on the keeper and the out around Easter 2009 to Yeovil Town, “I insist that all our power of communication to help just as the Under-18s were on the cusp development teams just create a synergy and special ‘they will of winning some silverware, while not get past’ camaraderie. I also like Steven Caulker spent his Under-18 take three substitutes the use of floaters because they can year out playing men’s football and they all must play. change the tactical dynamic of training because we felt that was the best for If our mantra is about games. him. The coach will have to take a hit to trusting our players, we So our first tactical priority when his ego in the short-term. Similarly I defending the counter-attack is to insist that all our development teams must walk the walk.” swarm the opposition and regain just take three substitutes and they their coaching awards; on how, whilst the ball immediately. But what if the all must play. If our mantra is about playing the same position next to each opponent breaks out of our ‘ideal trusting our players, we must walk the other, they dealt with their 1v1 tactical world’ situation? We need to deal walk. problems in very different ways in with the times in the game when we Hopefully this outlines the principles something as simple as coping with are out of balance and potentially of selecting teams – over a number of a forward who spins into the channel. outnumbered in defensive situations, years how we laid down the principles This has had a major impact on how I often in the last 20 to 30 minutes as of play; less around tactical formations now help players find their best way fatigue sets in, where the game may and more about height, depth, width, to deal with a tactical and technical become more stretched, and as the rotation, spacing and layers down problem, rather than offering them my game state may require greater risks. the pitch in our attacking shape, and best way as a coach when dealing with We will train and groove our players in similarly when trying to regain the ball. the tactical and technical detail. these situations - even the most basic All our practices must relate to this, I have tried to lay down the balance that scenarios - for as long as they are in the yet they’ll concentrate specifically I search for in ‘team versus individual’; Development teams. It’s all in the hope on how each player fulfils his task players with most potential versus the that these basic tactical habits will stay and gets better at it. I learned a lot other boys; a desire to win the game with them for life and automatically recently from Ledley King and Michael versus team selection principles; kick in even under the most intense Dawson when supporting them on playing style principles and preparing pressure.

18 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net john mcdermott TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR Defending the counter-attack

Key Ball movement Player Counter- movement 1 Dribble 1v2 defending/attacking attacking We set up as shown with a basic practice that uses channels the width of practices the D. To start, one attacker in each channel feeds into the To best coach the principles defender, who then behind defending counter- plays to the other attacks, it’s smart to test out attacker. Now a players using a variety of 2v1 attack begins. different set-ups and practices, Attackers must link each advancing and evolving up, evade the attentions from the previous, yet requiring of the defender and score past a blanket appreciation of the keeper. tactical and technical actions from players. Whether a goal is scored or not, we’ll always restart with the same set-up, ensuring Within all the practices below, we rotate players frequently. Players move I put a time limit on the attacks. forward 2v1 in So this might be, for instance, their channels four seconds to score in the first practice. This is to ensure the exercise is realistic and to take into account the movement and timeframes of recovering defenders in a ‘real’ situation. Midfield 3v2 counter-attacking game Setting up as shown, two centre-backs play 2v1 in the zone, trying to play into the midfielders or the no.9. Whites are looking for a pass or run through the gates to score, while blues are aiming to intercept and counter-attack 3v2 against the two central defenders.

2

3

Whites commence the move

They link up well and make a successful pass through the gate

4

In this instance a turnover is made and whites needs to organise quickly to defend the blue 3v2 counter-attack

19 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net john mcdermott TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR Defending the counter-attack

Key Ball movement Player movement Dribble

5

The main attack is 3v2 overload in favour of blues

6 4v3 and 3v2 overload game Setting up as shown in a 40x40-yard area, blues attack whites with a 3v2 overload. Whites have two players who become live on the transition, making a 4v3 overload the other way. On transition whites come in from the flanks for a 4v3 counter-attacking overload in the other direction

11v11 with thirds ideally looking to turn them In the process of this From our own successful This final counter-attacking around to allow us to get into a movement, we ask players regain, we want players to be practice is played out on a full structured defensive shape. If to do whatever is necessary thinking about the next stage pitch. The defending team a shot is something we cannot to sort out their foot patterns, – what happens after we’ve (here it’s the blues) can only prevent, let’s ensure it’s from body shape and field achieved what we wanted to in defend with one in the front wide angles. But before that positioning so as to be able the first phase? So depending third, so team mates must happens, the nearest player to block the ball and obstruct on the game situation do we drop off and defend in the must deflect the approaching the prime scoring areas for counter-attack or bring some middle third. player wide, if possible, crosses or rebounds. As order to the game by slowing while other players prioritise Michael Dawson says, the pain it down? Attacking players (whites) look and recover into vital areas of the ball hitting you lasts a to play through the middle to or mark opponents in the couple of minutes at worst, score with blues looking for most dangerous positions. while the pain of a ball going in regains and quick counters It’s essential that every player the goal will last much, much from the middle third. stays in the game – in other longer. words doesn’t lose a rash What are the key things to challenge (which would make look out for? the situation even worse). Players must know the rules of the counter-attack and what they’re trying to do. Key men, especially, plan for and anticipate the turnover before it happens and make sure we always have a central midfield 7 balance. So working with the goalkeeper, we want to see players dropping to an appropriate part of the pitch, then confronting the attackers. Breaking the pitch into thirds We want players to delay the offers a structural base attack and slow opponents where we can artificially provoke frequent counter- with use of body positioning attacking situations and (legal) body contact,

20 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net tony pennock ACADEMY MANAGER hullc ity

The key elements of the session: • Footwork and technical skills • Goalkeeper’s position • Defensive The relationships • Confidence and forgotten belief position in all formations Overview “The keeper is How often do we discuss formations as 4-4-2, 4-3-3, 3-5-2, 4-2-3-1 and often the only so on? Always! It’s rare that we ever player on the approach player set-up as 1-4-4-2, 1-4-3-3, 1-3-5-2 etcetera, but surely pitch not being this extra player – the keeper – warrants a mention, especially as the importance marked!” of his ability to distribute accurately in the modern game is paramount to the very creation of any attack that begins from the back. So this session aims to explore the idea of the keeper being the forgotten player in modern soccer. It looks to educate and empower – after all, he is often the only player on the pitch not being marked! – outlining how this unique position can be maximised as part of formations, and for the benefit of the whole team. It is a progressive session that explores positional play, movement and purpose, noting the untapped potential of using the keeper as a pivotal force in a formation.

SET-UP Area Up to a full pitch Equipment Balls, cones, goals, mannequins Session time 60mins

21 ELITE SOCCER: TACTICAL MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net tony pennock hull city The forgotten position in all formations Individual work

We begin by setting up as shown. Player 1, the server, plays the ball to the keeper, who has two touches to play either left to player 2 or right to player 3. These players can move along the shaded areas to serve and receive – they’re not fixed in one spot – but must remain in those spaces. This is a simple practice to begin with but it will quickly get the keeper accustomed to using the players around him and feeling involved as a key part of a defensive group. The shaded areas represent the key places where a team that plays out from the back would explore space in order to move the ball The keeper receives then forward, so what we’re looking for from the keeper is a willingness to get plays out either left or right the ball out of his feet in passing to a receiver (defender), whilst getting used to receiving possession in an area where he may feel under pressure. The principles outlined here are consistent throughout the practices that follow, but there are some mistakes that must be corrected or avoided early in the session, notably the danger that results from a poor first touch by the keeper. Past that, the quality of the pass out must be good enough to enhance the practice for the receiving players. Furthermore, once the keeper has made the pass left or right, he must move back to the Exponents of the art centre of his goal in preparation for the next pass, just as, in a game, he would quickly get back into a central position. Pass completion stats for keepers who are renowned for playing as ‘a part of’ traditional (outfield) formations: Iker Casillas – has averaged an 83.8% pass completion rate 4 for Spain at the last two World Cups. Hugo Lloris – in Tottenham Hotspur’s Carling Cup match 2! against Newcastle United at the end of October, Lloris completed more passes in the match than 3 any Newcastle midfielder (20 1 in total). Simon Mignolet – the 5 second best keeper in the Barclays Premier League 2013/14 season for passing accuracy (total of 65%, behind only Swansea City’s How do I progress 2 Michel Vorm), Mignolet achieved the practice? the magical 100% mark against Fulham in February. In the progression, we set up Now there are five as shown, adding in two additional And finally, TimH oward ’s distribution areas, with pass completion stats prior to shaded areas. The server now calls out a mannequins also in place number from 1 to 5, asking the keeper to play and with Roberto Martinez are to that area using varying techniques (feet, interesting. Before the Spaniard as before, and now out of hands as well). arrived at Everton, Howard completed 49% of his passes, The keeper must ensure he hits the right yet once the new Toffees boss area, particularly with the placement of was in place, and with his team mannequins adding an extra challenge to adopting a measured, technical the accuracy required. game renowned for being built from the back, the keeper’s pass completion ratio climbed to 59%.

22 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net tony pennock hull city The forgotten position in all formations Unit work

Now we set up as shown, using a back four and midfielder versus four opposition attackers. The keeper receives the ball from the server to start, with a varied pass each time (it could be along the floor, in the air or bounced). Attackers can close down the keeper if they wish to, or move to close down potential receivers. The coach will give limited information to the five receivers, and the keeper will have to decide where best to play the ball. Once each pass is played and the outcome seen, we will reset and go again. If the keeper and the team in possession are enjoying good distribution success, we can add in an extra player on the Replacing the mannequins opposition team to increase the difficulty. Even by doing with attackers creates this, the team bringing the ball out still has the luxury of an a ‘live’ obstacle for the extra player – namely the keeper. keeper to deal with What are the key things to look out for? The keeper must be brave with his choices, ensuring too that he makes the correct decisions for the benefit of the team. In addition, he must be able to understand when the game dictates what he does so that the team benefits. 11v11 game Remember, the keeper is the only player on a team who isn’t marked, so he must take advantage of this in helping We now build into a full 11v11 game. Either play with a goal at each his team regain possession. end on a full pitch. Alternatively, use a half pitch extended and In everything the keeper does, accuracy and good tempo award a point for successfully distribution, while the opposition are important qualities, with defenders always being score a point for an interception on distribution; then reset with willing and positive in involving the no.1 as ‘just another the keeper. The server begins by playing the ball to anyone on the player’ on the team. pitch; this player then feeds the ball back to his keeper to start the practice. We recommend the keeper’s team starts the game using a 4-3-3 formation, though positions on the field may be determined by those of the opposition. Some opponents will press high, others will just press in certain areas, others might simply sit back, but teams must be able to adapt to any structure. Opponents who press high against teams that try to play out from the back are the best test for this practice. If a team sits back it then asks a different question of the team we are working with. In the example shown it’s (a compressed) 1-4-3-3 against 1-4-4-2, and it’s clear that no matter who has the ball, the keeper is spare. What’s also evident is that there are a huge number of potential passing lines for feeding an initial pass out. And if opponents successfully block forward forays, the keeper’s area of control (previously his ‘shaded area’) offers a huge amount of room for receiving the pass back and reconfiguring a forward move. This diagram depicts the multiple passing opens Throughout the 11v11 game we must actually open to a keeper see the keeper adopting a control of passing looking to find a man in and movement options, using vision, confidence and position belief that he is as involved in the formation of his team as any traditional ‘outfield’ player.

23 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net david adams head of coaching swanseac ity

The key elements of the session: Defending • Positioning • Communication against • Awareness a 4-4-2 diamond

Overview Addressing what goes on in a 4-4-2 diamond has always fascinated me. It’s an adapted formation for teams who have limited wide players and strong personnel in central areas, and combined with defenders who have the talent and ability to attack and defend in 1v1 situations, this is a practice we love to embrace at Swansea, from both offensive and defensive perspectives. It’s a session that focuses on shape, triggers and organisation, and is the focal point in our ability to break up attacks and move forward playing ‘the Swansea City way’; but more than that, it encourages players to maintain their own identity at the same time, which is vital if we are going to develop in players both shared and individual identity.

“The team should never stop talking because we are dealing with a precise tactical plan that works perfectly when well executed, SET-UP but can quickly Area Up to a full pitch unravel if players Equipment aren’t following Balls, cones, goals Session time rehearsed 45mins instruction.”

24 ELITE SOCCER: TACTICAL MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net david adams swansea city defending against a 4-4-2 diamond

built around the notion that • Play attractive attacking • Become independent ‘The our identity is critical in the football, by playing out from decision-makers within a development of our young the back to find the spare structured framework and Swansea players. It’s vital that coaches man playing style harness belief and confidence in a ‘no fear’ environment to • Construct play in order to • Press the ball quickly on the City way’ ensure we develop players who work the ball into attacking transition in advanced areas fit into our playing philosophy. situations using progressive to sustain pressure on the At Swansea City we pride Central to achieving this is to possession and individual opposition ourselves on what we call ‘the facilitate players to be able to 1v1 qualities Swansea way’, and this is all do the following things:

Introducing the 4-4-2 diamond This is primarily an adapted formation for teams who have limited wide players, yet stronger personnel in central areas. It also requires full-backs who have the capacity to both attack and defend effectively in 1v1 situations. The system is flexible and creates problems in central areas as both centre-backs must mark 2v2, and the point of the diamond needs to be picked up out of possession, otherwise the team can be susceptible to balls entering the zone marked (see illustration below). We would begin the session by positioning players in the formation so that everyone can see the shape and positions (both as individuals and in relation to team mates). The 4-4-2 diamond, position by position The No6 The No 7 and No 8 The no.6 works at the base of the To the left and right of the diamond are players 7 and 8. diamond – effectively a defensive They straddle the halfway line but hover somewhere midfielder. He is the safeguard between the middle of the pitch and the wing, assuming in the diamond play, clearing The keeper neither position for any concerted period of time. They up danger whilst still provoking The player who can might conceivably link up directly with any other player attacking forays organise from the back, on the pitch, and their role is to pass frequently and begin attacking moves accurately in moving the ball into key positions that can and work in relation to his hurt opponents defenders to ensure the diamond can be ‘fed’ The No10 The no.10 is at the top of the diamond, an attacking midfielder who works behind and supports the strikers. He needs a good eye, excellent creativity and attacking intent

The back four Players 2 and 5 are the full- backs, with 4 and 3 the central defenders. Full-backs should Two strikers offer attacking movement Strikers work to attack the goal and width given the narrow whilst also blocking the passage of the midfield four, while central ball back down the pitch after transitions, In the diamond, compared defenders look to feed in at usually by heading to the wings to close to a flat midfield four, the bottom of midfield as well down opposition full-backs bringing the the centre of the pitch is as protecting the goal behind ball out of defence. All attacking players tightly manned and the them should be versed in running angles and gaps between the central directions so as to produce a slick offensive midfield and the attack are outlet smaller.

25 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net david adams swansea city defending against a 4-4-2 diamond

Basic defensive shape The defensive shape employed to make this system less effective is now outlined. When defending in an organised shape from an opposition centre-back bringing the ball out, the shaded area outlines the trigger area at which to press in order to ensure distances between each line are 10-12 yards (from the no.9 to centre-backs 5 and 6), and 36 yards front to back.

Our no.9’s position is crucial given that it forces the attacking team to play out wide to full-backs

When the ball is transferred to full- backs The wide player presses as the ball travels to keep the full-back down the line, effectively forcing him to play into a 2v1 with our full-back and central midfielder. Our midfield unit must adopt an ‘L-shape’ and pick up zonal marking to avoid rotation of players creating space. The role of the opposite wide midfielder is to narrow and prevent the other team creating a midfield overload. Crucially, smart and intelligent positioning here also opens up for us potential counter-attacking options on the regain, in other words by playing in between the The L-shape provides opposition midfield an obstructive line meaning the full-back line, with a pass that splits is forced wide and down the opposition centre-back and the line full-back.

On pitch situations An example of the L- shaped Dealing with problems – a tactical understanding zonal defence Of course, any tactical set-up will have its threats and filling the mid- field and forcing weaknesses, and this is no different. Yet often the problems play wide encountered come about as a result of a lack of discipline from our own players, so coaching and reminding players to stay aware of their roles is the first and most important step towards maintaining a constant and solid response to an opponent’s gameplan. When in In this instance, the centre of our midfield must be disciplined possession, the when in possession, keeping at least one centre-midfielder positioning of behind the ball in order to prevent the counter-attack(5) . It’s a the defensive midfielder simple role to maintain though, with the player getting in line is pivotal in with the ball and to the side of the striker so as to be able to tackle preventing from his opponent’s first touch as team mates adopt an L shape a potential behind him. counter-attack from a turnover We must also ensure we keep at least three defenders back so as to be able to cope with the two opposition centre-forwards.

26 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net david adams swansea city defending against a 4-4-2 diamond

Stifling the holding midfielder When the ball is switched by the opposition no.4, our 9 and 10 must rotate positions to avoid the no.9 constantly running side to side. The rule is that the centre-forward must always keep centre-backs playing outside to the full-backs, or otherwise letting them play a predictable (and aimless) long ball into our numerical advantage 4 (4v2) at the back. Both methods ensure we have successfully stifled the 9 threat.

10

Our 9 and 10 rotate to share the work of preventing the opposition feeding the ball to the base of the diamond

What are the key things to switch play, given that our team On pitch situations look out for? is defending narrow and is Controlling the opposition A crucial part of defending a susceptible to quick switches of play. Another potential threat comes from a quick switch 4-4-2 diamond is in showing of play which exposes the fact we have no cover for opposition attackers wide. Of Maintaining a zonal marking the opposite full-back. Failure to put pressure on the course, it follows - the more we system in central midfield is opposition at the point of the diamond can leave any can keep the ball away from the crucial as teams who play this defending team susceptible to the diagonal switch. diamond the less effective the system usually employ a fluid Therefore, our defensive premise is to always try to other team is. diamond structure that allows keep the ball down one side of the pitch, and to prevent Much of what we coach when players to rotate. This, in turn, opponents switching play. dealing with a diamond revolves demands that when defending around keeping the ball away players must mark zonally from the central overload they deal with a player in that (diamond) - particularly from the specific zone as opposed to man point of the diamond (10) as the marking. centre-backs are unable to deal Key defensive principles involve with this player due to the fact pressure on the ball (when and they are defending against two where), body position (to show central strikers. down the line or to be aware Also the relationship between of man and ball), angles and the 9 and 10 is crucial in stopping distances of cover, and making Failure to close down opponents at the point of the effective decisions (such as when diamond can leave us open to a potential switch of play the opposition using the deep point of the diamond (4) to to press).

27 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net GARETH PROSSER ACADEMY MANAGER wolverhamption wanderers

A tactical foundation At the heart of this session, and our footballing philosophy Attacking at Wolves, is a strong need to develop players to be both knowledgeable and flexible in their application of the four principles key moments during matches. These can be expressed as follows, and will determine the outcome of any game: in a 4-2-3-1 • We are in possession of the ball • We do not have possession of the ball formation • We have won the ball back and are organising the attack • We have lost possession of Overview the ball and are organising to This session explores attacking defend principles in a 4-2-3-1 Whether they are attacking or formation, with prime focus defending, the third and fourth placed on how we can build from points above should lead players the back in pursuit of attacking to decide on and determine their angles and options. actions based on the following While tactical and positional options: coaching is at the heart of this to begin with, we also expect Four key a high technical level of play in - Transition + order for players to be able to moments work solutions to the problems of play caused by pressing opponents. Attacking The challenges and elements Counter or build? of playing both with and without Defending the ball combine with tactical Press or delay? understanding to create a flowing and forward-minded practice that challenges and entertains players in equal - Transition + measure.

The key elements of the session: • Movement • Organisation • Communication • Patience “From a purely • Vision coaching perspective it’s imperative we SET-UP Area make sure our Up to a full pitch observational Equipment points are Balls, cones, goals Session time specific to the 90mins, direct needs Possession drill 20mins, Squad practices 20mins, of the players’ 11v11 practices (10mins each) positions.”

28 ELITE SOCCER: TACTICAL MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net gareth prosser wolverhampton wanderers Attacking principles in a 4-2-3-1 formation

What do I get the the outsides of the mannequins. To progress further, after players to do? Possession We move clockwise and following his pass in, a man anticlockwise until reaching receiving can then play a one- For this session I have a point where players are two with the end player. chosen to focus on drill comfortable with the practice. Players can now move off the build-up, specifically (20mins) playing out of the How do I progress the drill? mannequin inside the area to This is an ideal practice to defensive third, into the We now advance the drill so receive. And if one player makes begin with because it relates middle third in a 4-2-3-1 that players can receive in front this movement, then the next to the overall session theme formation. This set-up of or behind the mannequins must move in the opposite of build-up play, working on offers players the fullest (2). Furthermore, we want to direction. passing types, movement and way of starting and encourage players to vary taking For further options, players on combinations. developing an attack, the ball with the inside and the side of the mannequins can and it is a formation that Players are positioned as shown outside of the foot, switching rotate before receiving the ball, requires participation, (1), ideally two per mannequin. between nearest and furthest always being encouraged to play concentration and We start with balls at either end foot to receive (in other words creatively with different types of application by all of the area. Players pass and receiving on the front- or back- combination play – one-touch, involved. move, working their way around foot). longer pass and supporting of With this in mind, there are some key principles which underline the practice: • Make the pitch big • Create overloads and ensure rotation of players • Be ‘a face’ – in other words, make yourself visible and available at all times 1 • Assess passing priorities, asking whether to use a ‘first’ or ‘second’ line in distributing (i.e. the back four, or pushing players into midfield), but always choosing an option that ensures security throughout in In the first possession drill, the context of passing players pass and move, working decisions their way around the outsides of • Switch play through the mannequins the thirds frequently, effectively and efficiently • Ensure a quick transfer of the ball 2 using one- or two- touch play only Warm-up We will construct a standard warm-up using static and dynamic exercises to ensure that players are prepared for the task ahead, both In the first progression, we’re physically and mentally. encouraging players to step off the mannequins and to receive and pass on the ball using a variety of different techniques

Key Ball movement Player movement Dribble

29 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net gareth prosser wolverhampton wanderers Attacking principles in a 4-2-3-1 formation

CONTINUED FROM possession possession back from him in What are the key things to drill TEXT Squad order to play back the other way. look out for? movement. Neutrals play with the team in We want to see players creating We might also add in practice possession and do not defend. space as a team with the specific passive defenders if How do I progress the aim of finding the spare player (20mins) we feel this further session? and getting him on the ball. Setting up as shown using a 4v4, progression benefits the One player from the team in Good angles and distance of plus one neutral in each zone players in terms of giving possession can drop into the support are essential and will be (3) there are two target players them challenges that free zone without pressure learnt over time, while excellent (keepers), one behind each end build to a point where they to help transfer the ball(3a) . body position to receive the ball line at a distance of six yards. are comfortable, yet still Furthermore, we can condition and support a successful ball We’re using a 60x40-yard area being pushed and tested. the number of passes in the area transfer is imperative. with a separating zone of 5-10 What are the key before transferring the ball. yards. Players must pass forward things to look out for? The player who passes the wherever possible, using the To start, the team in possession Players must control ball can support in the central fewest number of touches, and builds play in one zone to pass the ball so as to allow area but must then return to again we want them to ‘be a the ball through the free zone effective transfer in one the original zone. We can also face’. to team mates, who attempt or two touches. At first remove the neutral players and to pass to the mobile target we want to see passes add them to the teams. player. If successful, they receive along the floor, yet this can develop into other types of passes - for instance, driven passes to transfer over short or medium distances, and lofted passes to move the ball over medium or long distances. We also want players to recognise when to receive on their ‘safe side’ or with their furthest foot, 3 with the emphasis on assuming a positive and relevant body position. There must be a high standard of passing and control, with quick tempo, and everyone playing in ‘the now and next’. Moving forward, we would hope to Blues support reds see disguises being in possession and incorporated more successfully thread a pass through to red team mates into passing, as well as, on the other side of the of course, expecting practice communication to build as the practice progresses. From a purely coaching 3a perspective it’s imperative we make sure our observational points are specific to the direct needs of the players’ positions. For example, with forwards, how are they anticipating their movement to receive the ball? Do they stand in front of and ‘pin’ the Here, in the progression, mannequin to receive, or the red steps into the are they instead looking to middle zone to receive and help the transfer Key run on to a pass made to Ball movement the side. Player movement Dribble

30 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net gareth prosser wolverhampton wanderers Attacking principles in a 4-2-3-1 formation

Key Ball movement Player movement Dribble

4

In Playing Against The Press, the keeper feeds to the left-sided centre-back who positions himself at the corner of the box

5

4

2

In Playing Around The Press, the keeper must expect a return pass in order for the ball to be switched to a defender on the other side of the box

play out if this turns out to be them to receive the ball. They understand they have to 11v11 the case. There is a saying at can move to the corner of the handle the ball in this situation. Wolves; “don’t pass it less, box initially but must not be The no. 4 must be aware of practices pass it better”. Coaches must afraid to alter their positions the need to drop down to link have a strategy that all players (narrower or wider) to allow the ball to the no. 2, potentially (10mins each) should be clear on in order to them to commence forward one touch. The timing of his Playing against the press help them be successful in movement of the ball. movement and body position (4) playing, even when there is a Playing around the press should allow him to do this These days, more and more high level of pressure from the (5) safely and securely. This opposition. For example, as teams are building out from Once the opposition begins to presents an opportunity to get shown, the keeper must trust the back. With this in mind, the press the ball, a quick transfer the no. 2 on the attack using the splitting centre-backs to play opposition are likely to try to of the ball via the keeper and space in the wide area. out with a view to the ball being press and attempt to win the one of the splitting centre- bounced back to him, knowing ball back in this high position backs allows the ball to play full well that this will lead to to score. around the press, moving it the opposition beginning to out to the far side of the pitch. Players should not be press. These players should It is important that the keeper obstructed from trying to take up positions that allow and working centre-back

31 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net gareth prosser wolverhampton wanderers Attacking principles in a 4-2-3-1 formation

Key Ball Playing longer from movement Player the back (6) movement Dribble Playing out from the back provides the team with an opportunity to control build-up play and progress the ball securely into key areas of the field. If we are able to play out to the centre-backs but don’t see a way that the ball can then be played around the press and out 6 to the full-backs, we still have other alternatives to control possession. Similarly, if the centre- backs are marked and unable to get on the ball, the keeper should have the ability to clip a pass to either full-back, In Playing Longer From the as shown, and over the Back, the emphasis is on a ball into the ‘second line’, and a opposing player to get longer ball forward, usually out on the attack. By when centre-backs are too playing to the second closely marked for a short pass line this should force the opposition back towards the ball, and in a worst case scenario, create space for the back four to 7 build up and out. Playing longer from the back – progression (7) 7 8 10 To progress this thinking, there may be a situation 11 where the centre-backs 4 can get on the ball but do not see a way of building with short passing. In this instance, the centre-back should look to get the ball out of his feet and clip a In the progression, we are long diagonal pass to the encouraging movement from no.10 who secures the central players to free up space ball. and angles for a longer pass, here into the no.10 To create space for the pass to the no.10, players 8 and 4 should decoy short, the no.9 should take as high a line as possible, with 7 and 11 Midfielders linking in allow them to link play from itself. Either player can drop assuming positions that the defensive third one line to another. This may in line with the centre-backs are high and wide. Full- It is important to make the involve them linking from to create a ‘back three’ to get backs should assume point that players 4 and 8 a central to a wide position, on the ball, with full-backs positions that are short must not be ‘resting’ when or combining together to taking up higher starting and wide. trying to build out from the move the ball into an area positions. If the opposition where the team are able to uses a high press, there Once the ball has been back. Instead, they should play an integral part in commence an attack. may be the opportunity for played forwards, 8 and 4 the keeper to play into the should back up the play supporting this process. If If required, players 4 and 8 the ball is played into any can also take responsibility second line to either players with a view to supporting 8 or 10 (or 7 and 11 if they have the no.10. player in the back four, 4 or 8 to start play from the keeper must take up positions that if the opportunity presents come off the line inside).

32 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net mark sampson HEAD COACH england women’s national team

The key elements of the session: Attacking • Positioning • Passing in a 4-4-2 • Support diamond

Overview The objective of this practice is to educate players in the principles of attacking when “The player in setting up tactically in a 4-4-2 possession is diamond. Specifically, this means creating different encouraged lines of passing for the player to be aware of in possession, as well as exploring the decisive factors the position of that dictate the choice of pass. his /her team It’s important to practise this with the England national mates and women’s football team opponents because although our principles of play remain the before same no matter where we selecting the are on the field, the midfield diamond represents one of right pass for the four key tactical structures the team.” we adopt as a team, such is its perceived importance in the modern game. This and other practices aim to help further the players’ understanding of our core principles as well as teaching them the key tactical team movements within the diamond itself. As a result, we have developed an engaging practice that moves quickly and offers maximum ‘take out’ for players.

SET-UP Area Up to 72x44 yards Equipment Balls, cones, goals Session time 48mins

33 ELITE SOCCER: TACTICAL MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net mark sampson england women’s national team Attacking in a 4-4-2 diamond

Key Ball What do I get the players to do? movement Player movement We begin in a 30x25-yard area. Dribble Players are split into three teams of four with two acting as common players who only play for the team in possession. One team of four sets up with two players on each end line (to help the players relate the practice to the match as these would be the central defenders and strikers). A 4v4 situation now occurs inside the rectangle with both teams working in a diamond formation, with the common players on the sides representing 30 full-backs. 25 The objective of the practice is for teams to work the ball from end to end with a point being scored each Reds begin by working the ball from time this is achieved. one end of the practice to the other Players on the outside are able to pass to each other but can also be tackled. The only condition at the start of the practice is that these outside players are limited to two touches of the ball. The normal ‘work to rest’ ratio is 1:1 with a working time of two minutes and recovery time of two minutes (six sets). The four players on the outside would then swap with a team in the middle with the common players remaining on the side. What are the key things to look for technically/tactically? The first thing we look for is the 30 positioning of the players so they 25 are not on the same horizontal or vertical line as any of their team mates. This automatically creates Upon making it to a target yellow player the passing plan see the ball a number of different passing lines return in the opposite direction for the player in possession. Players need to constantly scan the pitch to be aware of their position in relation to what’s happening on the ball (whether pressure or no pressure), the position of their team mates and position of the opponents. We encourage team mates to provide the player in possession with various types of support: a team mate who has come off an opponent to offer a short pass, 10 moving in between opponents to offer a more penetrative pass, and moving in behind opponents to offer a longer pass. Other supporting players would 30 adjust their position based on this movement, what is happening 25 Adding scoring zones and goals offers players a further dimension on the ball and the positions of opponents. 10

34 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net mark sampson england women’s national team Attacking in a 4-4-2 diamond

Key The player in possession is Ball movement Player encouraged to be aware of the movement position of his/her team mates and Dribble opponents before selecting the right pass for the team. How do I progress the session? B As an initial progression, we restrict players in the middle to only one A touch of the ball. To enhance the challenge further, for a goal to 18 count the end player receiving the ball must play a successful pass one-touch to a supporting player A 18 inside the rectangle.

Next, we can add goals 10 yards B 18 behind each end line to give the 44 forward the option of moving in In the main small-sided game, the red team are seen here building behind to score , with the end line from their keeper then acting as an offside line. 18 How would I put this into a game situation? We’d set up a small-sided game played on a pitch the size of two penalty boxes, with an area the size of a penalty area behind each goal. The game is 8v8 with two players from each team on the opponent’s goal line either side of the post B (acting as strikers). There are two common players, one on each side (acting as full-backs) and four A keepers (one in each goal). The remaining six players are set 18 up into a 2-4 formation with the two players at the back (acting as A 18 centre-backs) and the four players in midfield (as a diamond set-up). B Teams can score in either of the 18 44 two goals their team is attacking. Here, they combine with a ‘common Strikers are limited to one touch player’ to score in goal A when playing to a team mate, or can 18 take more touches if they decide to attempt to score in goal B. We won’t play offside unless the striker wishes to receive a pass then move towards goal B - he/she would need to move onto the pitch to an onside position to then attack the goal. If the striker decides to attempt to score in goal B his/her strike partner can support with two B players from the middle section,

but two defenders can recover also. A There are no throw-ins or corners – the ball would always start with the 18 keeper in goal A. We would play this match with a ‘work to rest’ ratio of six minutes play with two minutes A 18 recovery (three sets).

B 18 44 In this example, the decision is made to break the line and go for goal B 18

35 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net darren sarll HEAD OF YOUTH stevenage

The key elements of the session: Regaining • Positioning • Support possession • Movement • Structure against • Organisation teams that play through the lines

Overview The purpose of this session is to educate players on defending in and out of balance, and how to engage and prevent players playing freely between the units and lines. It also looks to master the transition between defence and offence, and vice versa. The skills that the session brings to the fore are vital in how players develop relationships, not just between their units, but the players in units in front and behind them, and we tackle these elements in minute detail. So the practice builds from understanding the basic mechanics of transitions to embracing overloads, pressing and support. We assess key roles within the structure of the team, with the expectation that players will rise to the challenge and increasing difficulty of tasks, subsequently improving their tactical understanding of key defensive principles.

“Speed, information SET-UP Area and distances Up to a full pitch must be evident Equipment and retained Balls, cones, goals Session time to prevent Establishing the lines opposition 70mins, Game situation attackers playing 20mins through.”

36 ELITE SOCCER: TACTICAL MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net DARREN SARLL STEVENAGE Regaining possession against teams that play through the lines Table football principles

Establishing the lines (10mins) Distances must be maintained between This first practice is based on table football defending players when where, inevitably, all units of players are the ball is moving, with ‘balanced’. The objective is to encourage players the adjustment of the unit Defenders need to to play in and out of balance in order to engage and team shape crucial as work out at what point the ball moves across the they can stop shifting opponents operating between the lines. They relative line across to prevent work as a unit, but we also examine individual ‘over-covering’ roles and responsibilities within this defensive organisation. We set up as shown – it’s 11v11 on a full pitch broken down into three lines. Each team plays 4-4-2. The defending team only operates on its ‘lines’, moving horizontally but not coming off the line, and only intercepting when the ball meets them on their designated line. The attacking team can play anywhere on the pitch (offsides apply for added realism). They can move and pass freely between the lines and finish with shots, as well as How far does the central obeying other additional conditions defender pull the central we might want to impose, such as midfielder across the restricted touches, perhaps. striker or the space in front? If the defending team regains possession, natural transition occurs – now they can move freely while the (former) attacking team reorganises on the When and where does the central midfielder pull the marked lines. centre-forward over to The attacking side must be expressive, quick and screen the midfield players? bright to improve defensive lines and create a real stimulus in ball speed and tempo. Players will always buy into attacking practices that involve a finish, so there must be a goal target to aim at.

Adding detail (10mins) Once players have embraced and provided suitable evidence to their understanding of sliding across the pitch to mirror the ball, movement, greater depth and detail can be added.

The nearest centre-forward can press from the front if he can affect the ball player’s initial touch. If he can engage and the ball gets switched by the opposition defender, he must return to the line before the other centre-forward presses

37 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net DARREN SARLL STEVENAGE Regaining possession against teams that play through the lines

Cementing objectives The centre-back engages (10mins) the no.10 (then recovers back quickly once the ball Players should now be at a point where has been moved) they understand the timing and pressing triggers, plus recognise covering and supporting positions, as well as when to defend in and out of balance.

The centre-midfielder The centre-forward engages the opposition engages the central centre-midfielder (then defender (then recovers recovers back quickly once back quickly once the the ball has been moved) ball has been moved) The left-midfielder engages the full- back (then recovers back quickly once the ball has been moved)

1 The right-midfielder engages the full-back. As he releases to press Enhancing the relationship it triggers his supporting right- 2 The aim is to force (10mins) midfielder to press and mark his players to the touchline wide player as tightly as pressure is Players can now work both in being applied to the ball front of and behind their line to press to manage that space. I like my players to press in 3 The position the nearest straight lines, get there quickly central defender takes up and get pressure on the ball. is key to now protecting the Depending on the structure we space down the side of the centre-forward as well as are playing against it is vital that determining how the centre- we eliminate that numerical midfielder must work when advantage in central screening the ball into the areas, so where the centre-forward’s feet approach dictates, we force players onto the touchline, as it represents another defender. As the pattern progresses 4 The right-back and right-midfielder are we will build a clearer working in balance, yet their subsequent units are out of balance. They must adjust marking understanding of why the sides, body position and supporting positions, centre-forward needs to be plus prioritise when to mark players and when where he is and why this is to mark space (or both) going to affect our defensive 2 The centre-midfielder releases organisation. behind him also to engage the space left, and in doing so picks up the 3 This progression next central midfielder also triggers a central defender to start to ‘prowl’ and ‘slow release’ ready to manage 1 The centre- the space left by the forward engages a pressuring centre- Progression deep-lying centre- midfielder in front of midfielder him, therefore denying (10mins) a deep-lying no.10 time In this progression, players are to turn not operating strictly in their units, but are working to manage the space between lines across all three units, and are prepared to 4 The covering centre-back release themselves from slides over to mark the other side balanced states to unbalanced of the centre-forward and pulls states. the left-back in for cover Again, crucial to this organisation 5 The centre-midfielder slides over are the players around the pressure bringing his wide player in, providing who recognise danger and space cover for the pressing players and quickly. remaining balanced

38 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net DARREN SARLL STEVENAGE Regaining possession against teams that play through the lines

Engaging from the front and the back (10mins) In the last phase we ask players not only to engage opposition players from the front, but also from the back. This creation of 2v1s is not only to increase regains and make playing uncomfortable and intimidating, but also to squash the space between the units. 2 Centre-midfielders stepping So as shown previously, once the ball is played into deep-lying out to press trigger the central centre-midfielders we should have a balanced and organised unit defender into prowling and ready to engage the ball player. Supporting players surrounding engaging the deep-lying no.10 engaging players will take up the appropriate positions based on the space and danger seen.

1 As the centre-midfielder steps out to engage, we encourage the centre- forward near the ball to do the same, therefore creating a 2v1 defensive overload and ‘disrupting’ the ball carrier

3 The nearest centre- 4 The remaining centre- midfielder spins and once forward drops the ‘wrong more attempts to create 2v1 side’ of the deep-lying centre- defensive overloads midfielder to suppress that support

Transition (10mins) Now we have an effective system and defensive organisation the practice finishes as it started, highlighting transition as a key fundamental factor. Once possession is regained, these two deep-lying centre-forwards can now create passing options for a team mate who has regained the ball. As they have dropped onto the back of the opposing centre-midfielders they find themselves unmarked, in contact with the ball, easily found, and able to turn and counter-attack. But to do this they must be encouraged to stay with the ball and not immediately turn and run. We want them to support, receive on the half-turn and attack aggressively. You’ll find they are rarely more than 2v2 or 2v3 against, so realistically they have a chance to counter-attack quickly. On the flip side, how quickly can the team who have just lost possession get back in balance and engaging the ball? Can they slow or delay the attack? Can they invite pressure from both sides to create 2v1s and manage the space between units?

Key areas and movement positions in transition

39 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net DARREN SARLL STEVENAGE Regaining possession against teams that play through the lines

Game practice Overload game What we’ve practised so far can be replicated in any small-sided or 11v11 game scenario. Here, we’re using 11v11 on a full-size pitch. There are two floating players who play for the team in possession creating a 12v10 overload - these replicate the role of a modern-day deep-lying midfielder 10 (no.4) and shadow striker (no.10) and must operate between the lines. The game situation puts a team 4 (and the coach) under real stress. Who do players mark, when do they engage the floaters and Floating players work with when do they step off? Thus, the the team in possession to management of the space and its create a 12v10 players between these lines is key. Even from the very beginning the way the team talks and interacts is vital to the success of this Centre-forwards should not chase practice. If they do not organise, dictate and listen to the ball if it is played into full- one another, the overload will always win. backs, but adjust position to one of support and front screening

The role of the centre-forwards We begin by looking at the role of the centre-forwards when pressing, creating 2v1s, and managing the space between the lines.

Once the supporting/front 10 screen is operating, the ball will be immediately bounced back into the central defenders for the press to start again 4

Midfield players must Forwards should engage central squeeze down on the no.4 defenders as high and as early as early when the centre- possible, giving the opposition forwards are enticing the enough room to play before early press engaging aggressively

Finishing positions When showing the finishing positions, we can see the supporting role of the centre-forward when the ball has been played into the full- backs. Once the ball is bounced back to the central defender he gets out immediately and engages, and this pattern is one the player can start to anticipate and ‘nick’ yards off. You can also see the centre midfielder pressing down on the no.4. Finishing positions of players looking to regain possession

40 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net DARREN SARLL STEVENAGE Regaining possession against teams that play through the lines

Reactions of centre-forwards The second centre- forward sits on If the ball is played This set-up shows us how centre- the back of the into the no.10, the forwards react when the ball is next unit or line to central midfielders played between them, and how they encourage the play would press, or hold to go backwards and provide a front manage the space between the units screen effectively. 10 So if the press is not on and/or the centre-forwards have pressed and the midfield has not recognised a trigger, the overload 4 will take over. It’s now imperative that if the Movement patterns and ball is played past the approach to creating a 2v1 centre-forwards (short overload or long) those players react instantly to get on (a) the back of the ball player (no.4), and (b) the back of If the ball goes back the the next unit or line. centre-forward can initiate the press again, or hold and provide a front screen

Pressure and support 5 The centre- midfielder engages the 4 The opposite 3 The central defender now changes from midfielders - flank deep-lying no.4 and can full-back slides his marking sides and distances to This press is initiated by the now drop back into his round also protect the space in behind the full- back (whilst remaining balanced), as centre-forward and relies unit (regaining balance) as the centre-forwards does the other central defender on players recognising will drop on the back triggers. of the opposition midfielder

6 The right-midfielder compacts his unit by coming in and marking, 2 This trigger indicates and the immediate to the (defending) threat is suppressed full-back that he must also come forward to tighten the space between himself and the left-midfielder (as well as the player he is marking)

1 The wide player starts to prowl and engages the full- back as the ball travels, trying to force play outside the pitch

2 The central Pressure and support defender starts to from midfielders - central 1 The non-pressing prowl for the last central midfielder marks midfielder or no.10 This press is initiated by one of one of the two remaining our central midfielders. If the opposition midfielders ball goes out wide we already have a plan of action for that.

5 The two central midfielders spin to create a 2v1 and/or manage the space and balance of their line

3 If the ball breaks the line the spare central defender steps in to engage 6 The two centre- and press forwards drop onto the 4 Wingers and backs of the opposing full-backs start to midfielders narrow off to ensure compactness in the middle of the pitch

41 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net DARREN SARLL STEVENAGE Regaining possession against teams that play through the lines

The full-back engages When teams utilise the (and tries to force outside) The central defender slides over, as does flanks against compact his opponent as quickly as the nearest central midfielder to mark the central defensive shape possible, as does the nearest channel side, and the centre-midfielder winger, to create a 2v1 create a front screen Should the ball make it to those flank positions all marking priorities change, The furthest central midfielder as shown. and central defender follow suit and slide across. They must Both centre-forwards drop never be flat, but slightly deeper on the back of the midfield to provide cover for the nearest unit (and no.4) to manage the centre-midfielder and central space between the units defender

The opposite full-back and winger slide in to mark space and/or player, dependent on the attacking player’s position, leaving the furthest (and most ineffective) players on the other side

Finishing position This is the finishing position from the ball being moved from central to flank positions. Notice the shift of the defensive ‘block’ and the priority of (a) marking and (b) leaving those opponents deemed ineffective and least dangerous. Ineffective players Least dangerous Finishing position showing defensive block

2 Wide players – both full-backs and wingers – compact themselves and prioritise the middle of the pitch 1 The midfield spin and minimise the space When the unit is breached behind them This last diagram shows how to counter the problem of when the ball has been passed through a pressing unit and support has not been provided for or recognised from behind. To try to limit damage, the engaging unit (the midfield, in this instance) has to spin to minimise the space 3 The back four stays behind them and balanced for as long as support the unit behind. possible, only reacting Their target should be to when the attacker regain their balance behind the becomes a realistic goal ball. When the regain happens, we will threat make new passing lanes to receive and turn. 4 Both centre-forwards This is replicated in any scenario when a unit drop in to reduce space, has not recognised the trigger and is then but also get ready for the picked off. transition and impending counter-attack

42 ELITE SOCCER: tactical MASTERClass www.elitesoccercoaching.net