THE MAGAZINE FOR THE GOALKEEPING PROFESSION

SPRING 2020

Featuring: Aaron Ramsdale Tomáš Vaclík Bartosz Białkowski Paul Rogers Anthony White Michael Rechner GK1 Statistics Kid Gloves CRAIG GORDON - client #CreatingChampions Welcome to The magazine exclusively for the professional goalkeeping community. Andy Evans editorial

“Welcome to the Spring 2020 Each office launch has been accompanied by an expanding client edition of GK1 - the magazine list of top-class goalkeepers delighted to join our goalkeeper for the professional specialist agency. goalkeeping market. Since our last edition, our research and analytics department GK1 Magazine is published has continued to excel and provide excellent work for clubs by GK1 Management, the looking to recruit goalkeepers, as well as players who are seeking goalkeeper specific and to review their own performance through detailed statistical

Andy Evans - Chairman of World in Motion / GK1 specialist agency, which is analysis. Just as in the previous edition, this magazine has a ‘GK1 part of the World in Motion Statistics’ section, this time taking an in-depth look into how Group, a leading global agency specialising in representing goalkeepers deal with crosses. football players and elite athletes across a range of other sports. Additionally, we are constantly developing our tailor-made In the past few years, World in Motion has extended its internal ‘App’ which brings all of our global agents, players and already far reaching network by opening offices in exciting clubs together on one platform, facilitating the transfer and new territories such as the USA, Colombia, Czech Republic, recruitment of goalkeepers and coaches. Scandinavia, Slovenia, Serbia, Greece and Italy. We have also opened a second UK office in Cardiff, as a satellite office to our With GK1 Management on your side, your future is in safe hands.” Head Office in London. Andy Evans (Chairman of World in Motion / GK1)

C O N T E N T S

Welcome to GK1 3

GK1 Management Aaron Ramsdale 4 Chancery House Tomáš Vaclík 8 1 Lochaline Street London, W6 9SJ Kid Gloves 12

+44 (0) 20 8741 6060 GK1 Statistics 14 www.gk1.co.uk Coaching – Paul Rogers 18

Publisher Coaching – Anthony White 22 World in Motion Ltd Coaching – Michael Rechner 24 Editor-in-Chief Bartosz Białkowski 26 Andy Evans Essential Equipment 30 Deputy Editor Ben Read Guest Feature – Udo Seckelmann 38 Outside the Box 40 Graphic Design Tim Alexander Meet the Team 42

SPRING 2020 3 His team, Bournemouth, are currently enjoying their fifth consecutive season in England’s top division, and their goalkeeper will have a big part to play if they are to have a sixth in 2020/21.

But pressure is nothing new to the 21 year old, who has spent the second half of each of the last two seasons trying to help teams avoid relegation in the lower leagues. On Loan

Ramsdale went to Chesterfield in January 2018 with the aim of helping them stay up in League Two, but they ultimately finished bottom. “That was a tough period, because we had a good team but we never got the results, never hit the heights”, he said. Even so, it was an invaluable experience for the young shot stopper, as he gained playing experience and was toughened up, which would prove useful in the higher leagues.

“Getting knocked about and pinned in for corners, it’s tough. But it allows me now, with less physical contact in the Premier League, to come for crosses and know

4 SPRING 2020 I’ll be alright. I’ve come up against Ade always a punch. I’m more than happy award. “It’s nice to pick up awards, but Akinfenwa and done okay! The more to come and affect things, even if I I couldn’t have cared less as long as we strings you can add to your bow, it will don’t always get it right. I just have that stayed up”, he said. always stand you in good stead.” mentality where if I can help the team, I’ll do what I can.” And stay up they did, which was no mean “I’m comfortable coming for high balls feat. The Dons were bottom when he now, whether it’s catching or punching”, Keeping Wimbledon Up joined, and only took one point from his Ramsdale added. first five games. The following year, Ramsdale moved up “A lot of people see punching as a to League One when he played for AFC However, their form improved negative thing, but sometimes it’s your Wimbledon. His form was so impressive dramatically and they only lost one of best option. If you have any doubt, it’s he won the club’s Young Player of the Year their final 12 matches to stay up on the final day with a 0-0 draw at Bradford. Despite what he has achieved since, Ramsdale still describes it as one of the highlights of his career so far.

“The last day at Bradford was the worst we played as a team from January onward, but with the team spirit we had showed for 20 games or so, we managed to grind out a 0-0 draw and ended up staying up.”

“To go from where we were to staying up on goal difference, it definitely hit harder for me as I’d really played my part with seven clean sheets. I could look at myself and say I’d had a big part to play”, he added.

“Having seen what had happened at Chesterfield, with people losing their jobs because we got relegated, it was

SPRING 2020 5 something I never wanted to see again “So I’ve been working on my long But then there’s more modern analysis and something which I didn’t want on kicking, my short kicking, there’s been and coaching too, whether that be from my CV. We had all stuck together and a few games this year where it’s not GK1’s world class analysis service, or somehow got the results we needed. been as good. It’s all about finding that in-house experts like Anthony White, Thankfully all of our hard work had paid consistency. It’s knowing when to start who is currently undertaking a PhD in off.” attacks, and that’s what we work on.” Goalkeeping Coaching Science. (See Page 22). Premier League AFCB’s GK Department Breakthrough As Ramsdale explained, “Anthony spends In speaking with Ramsdale, one quickly so much time watching our stuff, watching And so to the Premier League and first learns there is very little he doesn’t work other goalkeepers. Analysing them to team football with Bournemouth. Eddie on in order to improve his performance pick out things we can possibly do. Matt Howe, the club’s manager, has certainly on the field. The goalkeeping department Parker is another goalkeeping analyst at been impressed with how well Ramsdale at Bournemouth ranges from himself and Bournemouth.” has taken to life at the highest level. Mark Travers, who are just embarking on their careers, through to veteran “He spends all day watching goalkeepers Speaking after Bournemouth’s 3-1 win at goalkeeper Artur Boruc, and then also a but also the strikers we’re going to be Southampton, Howe said his new number whole host of specialists and coaches. playing. He analyses every detail of the one “has adapted very well to shots and their favourite Premier League life. He did really sides for shooting, which can well, he was hugely impressive.” I owe a lot of be vital.”

“His distribution was good, he “All of our staff are great. The was brave, which we want him respect to a lot of analysts, the physios and to be, and he made a couple of (Bournemouth legend) Neil really good saves in that second fans, even for just“ Moss at the head of it. He half.” provides the old school look at things too. If we’re getting Not only did Ramsdale make singing my name, too modern and stat based, some vital saves in that match, Neil strips it back!” but he also got an assist! At the “it gives me an extra half way point of the 2019/20 “We’ll have a session were season, he’s one of only 16 players boost... just diving about, saving aged 21 or less to have one in the shots, having fun. We’ve got a Premier League. Though he didn’t great team.” even realise it had happened at first. “Mark and I are young, and we know Relationship With “It was more the fact we were 2-1 up, we’ve hopefully got long careers ahead The Fans under a lot of pressure, and we’d never in the game. It doesn’t really affect our won at St Marys before. When the goal relationship who’s playing, as we’re both The word ‘team’ comes up a lot with went in, I wasn’t thinking about an still learning on the job.” Ramsdale, be that in reference to assist, I was happier that we’d got over the Bournemouth side, the group of the line to win. It was only over the “Then there’s Artur, who has a completely goalkeepers and specialist coaches coming days when people messaged different style to how Mark and I play. A he is part of at the club, or his bond me about it that I realised. I looked at different style to most keepers now, in with the fans. my fantasy points and saw I had an fact, he’s almost from a different era! He’s assist!” capable of Peter Schmeichel-esque, starfish “It’s important for me to have a good saves, so if we can get his flexibility, how understanding with the fans. They pay Aaron continued, “I consider kicking a he projects his body and makes himself so their money, and we need to repay them strength of mine. But the Premier League big, it can only help. With the experience for showing their support,” he said throws different challenges at you. he’s got, he helps Mark and me every day. Something you think of as a strength I know I can speak to him at half time or “The main thing is, being a goalkeeper might not be as good as you thought it after a game, it’s another voice other than can be lonely at times. When you’ve was once you’re at this level.” the main coaches. It’s a big help.” got the backing of thousands of fans

6 SPRING 2020 at Bournemouth, it can make a huge difference. I owe a lot of respect to a lot of fans, even for just singing my name, it gives me an extra boost. When we score, the rest of the team celebrate together so I turn around and celebrate with the fans”.

The other team Ramsdale is currently part of is the England Under-21s. After winning the Under-19s European Championships in Georgia in 2017, alongside the likes of Mason Mount and Ryan Sessegnon, he then moved up to the Under-20s and made his debut for the Under-21s in June 2018. Having played every match since June 2019, I suggested he had secured a spot in the team, but he doesn’t see it that way. ‘One Game At A Time’

“I’m still in the ‘one game at a time’ mind-set. If my form drops in the Premier League I know there’ll be repercussions for England as well. But there is also a goal at the end of the season, trying to sneak into the senior England squad for the Euros.”

“After that, I’m aiming to be the recognised #1 at Bournemouth ahead of pre-season, which will be tough as everything starts again. If my performances aren’t good in training and the warm up matches, I could easily find myself on the bench. I still need to establish myself in the Bournemouth team, I’m still taking it game-by-game.”

It’s a sensible outlook for a young player, but having already kept clean sheets in wins against Manchester United and Chelsea this season, Aaron Ramsdale is already very much on the right track.

By Andrew Beasley

SPRING 2020 7 8 SPRING 2020 TOMÁŠ VACLÍK

When you’re a top level footballer, plying your trade at the very pinnacle of the sport, life can be something of a whirlwind, with free time very hard to come by. Such is the experience for Tomáš Vaclík, the first choice goalkeeper for Sevilla and the Czech Republic. He kindly spared some time for an interview shortly before Christmas.

Sevilla were preparing to face Mallorca “We are still in the middle of the process He hoped for a draw so both sides would at the time, a match they went on to but I think we are doing the right things, drop points, and it duly finished 0-0. With win 2-0 which secured third spot in the balance is good. At the back we Sevilla only five points off the top at the the La Liga table at the end of 2019. By are quite solid. There was a period we start of 2020, they will hope to keep pace keeping Mallorca at bay, Vaclík picked were top of La Liga, hopefully we are for as long as possible. up his eighth clean sheet in the league experienced enough to stay up there this for 2019/20, a tally bettered by only two year.” Los Palanganas also have a proud record goalkeepers in Spain in the Europa League this season, and to uphold, having won equal to his personal it five times in the total from the entire last 14 seasons. It is a 2018/19 campaign. I was able to competition they will Having only hope to do well in over conceded 17 goals, the coming months. Sevilla had the joint- learn from fourth best defensive “Yes it’s very positive record in the “ for Sevilla, one of the division as football most successful teams in Spain paused for a one of the best in the competition,” Christmas break. Vaclík said. “We are hoping to do well As much as those goalkeepers in in this cup. We’re statistics reflect well “ through to the on Vaclík, football knockout stage, but is a team game need to be wary and further stats history... of Cluj (their next illustrate how Sevilla opponent). Our are defending better ambitions are to go far overall in 2019/20. and win this cup.” Where the Czech goalkeeper faced 4.4 shots on target per game last season, that While it will be a tall order to finish ahead It’s understandable Vaclík wishes to figure has dropped to 2.9 for the opening of the giants of Barcelona and Real do well in the Europa League, as he is 18 games of this campaign. He must be Madrid, it’s 11 years since Sevilla finished accustomed to success. He won the pleased with how their season has gone third. Doing so again this season would be league for four successive seasons prior so far? an achievement in itself. to moving to Sevilla: the 2013/14 Czech title with Sparta Prague, before three in “Yes, we can be satisfied, and happy with But we shouldn’t write them off – when a row in Switzerland with Basel. La Liga a lot of things,” he said. “A lot happened in we spoke, the first El Clásico of the season is of a higher standard than the previous the summer with the squad, a lot of new was taking place, with Tomáš watching it leagues he has played in, so how has he players arrived. The sporting director, on the team coach! found the step up? Monchi, returned to the club.”

SPRING 2020 9 “They have helped me improve. They can see the things that other people can’t see. As an example, how to prepare with different angles, things like that. It’s quite different with how they work and how others work,” Vaclík added.

The coaching, analysis and the player’s own hard work have come together perfectly, with the results all too evident on the pitch. Early in 2019, WhoScored. com identified Vaclík as one of the top goalkeepers in Europe’s top five leagues.

Across the four categories in their analysis – saves per game, on target big chance save percentage, conceded per game and clean sheet quality – Vaclík was one of only three ‘keepers who was above average in every section.

It’s this supreme level of consistency which has helped him reach the level he has today. With form like this, it’s no wonder his market value has (in the opinion of the Transfermarkt website) almost trebled in the 18 months Vaclík has been with Sevilla. Idolising Petr Cech

His record also explains how he won the Czech Footballer of the Year award in 2018, following in the footsteps of nine- time winner and cover star of the Summer 2019 edition of GK1, Petr Čech.

“It was a big jump to go from Basel to the player I am. They get me ready every It won’t surprise you to hear the Chelsea Sevilla, it is quite different, but I’ve gone weekend to give 100%,” he said. legend is an icon to Vaclík. through my orientation and it has gone well. I have learned some new stuff, in And like any person in any walk of life “He’s one of my heroes. He showed me terms of defending the box, defending in who is looking to improve, Sevilla’s and other kids like me that it’s possible to different areas… My coach loves this! He’s number one isn’t afraid to seek help go from the Czech Republic to the top of helped me adapt to new ways of playing” from anywhere he can get it. As well the game and stay there for 15 years,” he as utilising the experienced coaching said. “It was a thrill for me to work with There’s certainly no lack of goalkeeping staff at his club, Vaclík has also sought him with the national team, and to see him expertise at the club. The team’s manager, the assistance of GK1’s analysis in action at Euro 2016.” Julen Lopetegui, kept goal at both service. Real Madrid and Barcelona, while the “I was able to learn from one of the best goalkeeping coach, José Luis Silva, played Work With GK1 goalkeepers in history.” for Sevilla. Both have been crucial in helping Vaclík to improve. “I’ve worked with GK1, initially in my years Czech Republic’s No1 at Basel, that’s where we had first contact. “You can see everything they do, it all helps GK1 have helped me a lot, I can definitely Vaclík has succeeded Čech for the position me get to a very high level and become see the value in what they do.” of national goalkeeper too, having made

10 SPRING 2020 29 appearances for the Czech Republic. he can’t wait to cross off his personal These are exciting times for Vaclík, who His side recently beat England 2-1 in checklist. must be entering his peak years as a Prague, to inflict upon the Three Lions goalkeeper? their first defeat in 44 qualifying matches, “I missed the qualifying game at Wembley a run which stretched back 10 years. last March, so I’m looking forward to this “I don’t know about that! I hope I can Vaclík was only beaten from the penalty game most of all, I have never played at continue at this level, I would be really spot, in a game which was one of the Wembley. I will need to prepare for the happy. I have a contract for another 18 highlights of his career. experience, it’s an amazing stadium. To be months at Sevilla. For me personally, I playing against a top class opponent at really hope to end the season well and on “To win against a team of their stature their ground, it’s an enormous challenge a high note. It will be amazing if we can was really nice, and it definitely helped for us”, he said. qualify for the Champions League. For the towards us qualifying. It put us in a strong national team, I hope we can have a really position ahead of the last few games of Euro 2020 good summer, qualify from the group and the group, and we beat Kosovo in the next then who knows.” match. We now know who we’re going to Prior to England, Czech Republic will also be up against in the finals, we’re going to be facing Croatia, just as they did at the The Czech Republic were runners-up at play England again.” last European Championships. Euro 96 in England, and with one of the continent’s top goalkeepers in the shape By playing in Spain’s top league and “Yes, we have some experience with them of Vaclík between the sticks, they can having 62 European appearances under too. They have a great team with many certainly harbour hopes of challenging for his belt, Vaclík has played in some of the amazing players. They have quality all honours once again. world’s top stadiums; the Bernabeu, Camp over the pitch. It will be another really Nou, Old Trafford, Anfield and the Emirates tough game. We will see what will happen, By Andrew Beasley to name but a few. But there remains one but we have to be ready.”

SPRING 2020 11 takes a look at the stars of the future

OWEN GOODMAN GK1: What club do you support? GK1: What gloves do you wear? OG: Liverpool. RH: One Glove. GK1: Why/how did you become a goalkeeper? GK1: Who has been the biggest GK1: What boots do you wear? OG: Back in Canada I played for a local influence on your career and why? RG: Adidas X. team when I was about 9 years old. At OG: My parents as they’ve done so much the time I was playing centre-half or left for me to be in the situation I am in today. back but was asked to go in goal one day I’m extremely grateful for where I am. ROBBIE HEMFREY because of my kicking ability (and I didn’t Motherwell & Scotland U17 like running!). I gave it a go and liked it a GK1: Favourite band/artist? lot and have stayed as a goalkeeper. OG: I don’t have one.

GK1: Who is your footballing idol? OWEN GOODMAN OG: Manuel Neuer. Crystal Palace GK1: Biggest moment in football to date? OG: Winning the National Floodlit Cup vs AGE: 18 Wigan. HEIGHT: 193cm GLOVES: One Glove BOOTS: Adidas X GK1: What do you most like to do in INSPIRATIONAL PLAYER: Allan McGregor your spare time? CLUB SUPPORTED: Rangers BIGGEST INFLUENCE: Parents OG: I like to stay at home and relax on FAVOURITE BAND/ARTIST: Ed Sheeran or James Arthur the Xbox. Sometimes I’ll go to the gym AGE: 16 HEIGHT: 188cm or go out and play football with my GLOVES: One Glove mates. BOOTS: Adidas : Neuer INSPIRATIONAL PLAYER GK1: What club do you support? CLUB SUPPORTED: Liverpool ROBBIE HEMFREY RH: Rangers. BIGGEST INFLUENCE: Parents FAVOURITE BAND/ARTIST: Don’t have one GK1: Why/how did you become a GK1: Favourite band/artist? goalkeeper? RH: Ed Sheeran or James Arthur. GK1: What gloves do you wear? RH: I was playing football in the garden OG: One Glove. and my brother had GK gloves, I put them GK1: Who is your footballing idol? and started throwing myself around – I RH: Allan McGregor. GK1: What boots do you wear? was only 6. OG: Adidas.

12 SPRING 2020 GK1: Who has been the biggest GK1: Who has been the biggest GK1: What club do you support? influence on your career and why? influence on your career and why? AJ: In Slovenia I support NK Maribor. RH: My Mum and Dad for taking me to LK: All my coaches, family and friends are Otherwise I support Real Madrid. training most nights of the week and my biggest support. I owe them a lot of taking me to all of the games. I want to be gratitude. able to make them proud. ALEN JURCA GK1: Favourite band/artist? NK Maribor U19 & Slovenia U19 GK1: Biggest moment in football to LK: I like to listen to The Rolling Stones. date? RH: My Scotland debut. GK1: Who is your footballing idol? LK: My idols are Gianluigi Buffon and GK1: What do you most like to do in your Edwin van der Sar. spare time? RH: Chill out, play some FIFA and spend GK1: Biggest moment in football to time with the Mrs! date? LK: My biggest moments so far in AGE: 19 LUKA KACAVENDA football are qualifying for the U17 HEIGHT: 196cm European Championships in England GLOVES: Adidas Predator Partizan U19 & Bosnia U19 BOOTS: Adidas Predator with the Bosnian U17 national team and INSPIRATIONAL PLAYER: Casillas CLUB SUPPORTED: Maribor winning the Bosnia & Herzegovina U17 BIGGEST INFLUENCE: Coaches Championship. FAVOURITE BAND/ARTIST: Queen

GK1: What do you most like to do in your spare time? GK1: Favourite band/artist? LK: I like to listen to music, hang out with AJ: I really like Queen. my friends and go for walks. GK1: Who is your footballing idol? AGE: 18 HEIGHT: 190cm ALEN JURCA AJ: I have two idols. Iker Casillas and Jan GLOVES: Uhlsport or Reusch Oblak. BOOTS: Adidas or Nike INSPIRATIONAL PLAYER: Buffon GK1: Why/how did you become a CLUB SUPPORTED: Partizan goalkeeper? GK1: Biggest moment in football to BIGGEST INFLUENCE: Coaches FAVOURITE BAND/ARTIST: AJ: When I was 6 years old, I saw a video date? Rolling Stones of Casillas and how he flies through the AJ: My biggest moments so far are air to defend his goal and I said to myself qualifying for Euro under 17 in England “I want to do that too”. I trained in both with the Slovenian national team and U19 LUKA KACAVENDA skiing and football for 5 years at the Slovenian Cup winners and Slovenian same time. However, my love for football league U17 winners with NK Maribor. GK1: Why/how did you become a increased and I made it my main focus. goalkeeper? GK1: What do you most like to do in your LK: I started playing football when I GK1: Who has been the biggest spare time? was seven years old. My father was a influence on your career and why? AJ: I like to listen to some music, play goalkeeper so I continued the tradition! AJ: I would say all my coaches who taught basketball and other sports. me to be a better keeper, better person GK1: What gloves do you wear? and my family because without them I LK: For me personally, the most would not be here as I am today. comfortable gloves are Uhlsport or Reusch. GK1: What gloves do you wear? AJ: Adidas Predator gloves. GK1: What boots do you wear? LK: I wear both Adidas and Nike boots. GK1: What boots do you wear? AJ: I wore Nike Superfly boots before the GK1: What club do you support? start of this season but now I wear Adidas LK: In Serbia I support FK Partizan, Predator boots. otherwise I support Barcelona.

SPRING 2020 13 GOALKEEPING STATISTICS Dealing With Crosses

Introduction recording simple, on-the-ball events such firstly record every action a goalkeeper as claims and punches. As a result, all the could possibly commit when coming for Although often ignored by fans and off-the-ball information is omitted with a cross, whether it be claiming the ball pundits alike, defending crosses is a significant events such as ending up in cleanly, punching it poorly or even rushing key part of goalkeeping. It first and ‘no man’s land’, which puts a goalkeeper into ‘no man’s land’. foremost remains an important tool in out of the game from a shotstopping cutting out potential good chances for perspective, being ignored. We then compare the quality of their the opposition. Goalkeepers have the average outcome to their willingness inherent advantage of using their hands Not only does this mean that costly errors to affect a cross. This is calculated by when defending crosses, which offers are absent from the data, it also means predicting the likelihood in which a them both a height advantage alongside that a goalkeepers’ willingness to come for Premier League goalkeeper would come the capability to intercept the ball with the ball can only be evaluated when they for a given cross based on a variety of complete control. touch it. In addition, most data providers information including where the cross is define this willingness to come for the played from and into, its trajectory and the Robert Green, the former England ball with a percentage of crosses touched, number of players to go through to get to international summed it up perfectly which ignores the difficulty of the cross the ball. when he said that little compares to the faced, and the quality of the touch itself. “sigh of relief from your team-mates as This approach allows us to evaluate you go in among a crowded penalty area Any goalkeeper knows that a cross that whether a goalkeeper is making a positive to claim a cross”. It also acts a springboard arrives in the centre of the six-yard area trade-off between aggressiveness and to counterattacking, with a goalkeeper at a comfortable height and under no outcome, whilst enabling us to profile able to regain possession with plenty of pressure is easier to come for than one what type of goalkeeper they are. the opposition out of the game and yet to played near the penalty spot through The data enables us to ask a variety regain their defensive shape. bodies, yet these are the factors often of interesting questions about the art overlooked. of defending a cross for the modern As with every facet of football, data goalkeeper that cannot be systematically analytics is changing the way we think At GK1, our approach to measuring how answered using any other available data, about goalkeepers – although how goalkeepers defend crosses is more two of which will be addressed in this goalkeepers defend crosses is arguably detailed and nuanced. We aim to evaluate article: the least understood area. The issue the trade-offs goalkeepers make between predominantly lies in the data that is their willingness to come for crosses and 1. Low Crosses collected, with many data providers only their actual outcomes. To achieve this, we 2. No Man’s Land

14 SPRING 2020 1. Low Crosses with near post defence. It is therefore unsurprising that the goalkeepers in our Premier League sample come for approximately 10% fewer low crosses than for those played aerially, all else being equal. Frequently when goalkeepers do choose to come for a low cross, they are forced to parry it with their feet as well as their hands, which can also often lead to unsatisfactory outcomes.

For example, in this snapshot below Adrián chose to come for a low cross with his hands, but due to the small window of time to react he was only able to parry it back into a dangerous part of the pitch. In a game of fine margins, a Premier League goalkeeper is approximately 4% more likely to push a low cross out into danger, or to miss it completely.

Low crosses are evidently difficult to deal with and represent an increasingly large problem for the modern goalkeeper. However, by examining the approaches of those who deal with them best we can Pep Guardiola has been responsible for a This requires quick reaction times and begin to learn how elite Premier League significant number of innovations in the bravery in the face of onrushing forwards, goalkeepers effectively tackle low cross modern game, ranging from inverted full- whilst also balancing starting position situations. backs to his hyper-reliance on ball-playing goalkeepers. One which perhaps goes underappreciated is the use of cut-backs to create chances for his teams. Namely, the cut-back is a cross played along the ground – frequently from close to the by- line. Crosses of this nature are inherently better for the receiving player as a shot from off the ground is easier to control and convert than a header or volley.

Whilst just under 18% of crosses in the Premier League over the past two seasons have been played along the ground, it is a feature of many of the best attacks in the league with Guardiola’s Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool all playing a significantly higher percentage of their crosses low compared to the rest of the league.

In addition to being easier to score for attackers, low crosses are also difficult to defend, in particular for goalkeepers as they can only cleanly intercept a cross by getting low and claiming it.

SPRING 2020 15 balanced approach by being slightly more positive and cleaner than the average Premier League goalkeeper. From the example below, we can see certain aspects in the way Guaita deals with low crosses that may offer insight into the best way to approach them. In the first screenshot, Guaita’s body position is low, with bent knees, arms down by his side and on the front foot.

This starting point allows him to shuffle quickly forward when facing a low cross, before eventually collapsing on it. By shuffling forward instead of keeping his feet planted and springing across, as Adrián did in the previous example, Guaita Over the past two seasons in the Premier being extremely proactive in attempting is able to get to the cross quicker and League, four goalkeepers in particular to deal with them whilst Dúbravka opts gives himself more time to claim the ball have relatively excelled at dealing for a slightly more conservative but very cleanly. with low crosses. Two of them, Martin clean approach. Dúbravka and Bernd Leno are polar The remaining goalkeepers, Vicente Low crosses inherently give a goalkeeper opposites in their approach with Leno Guaita and Ederson, represent a more less time to react and by shuffling instead of springing, goalkeepers can give themselves milliseconds that can make all the difference between shutting down an opposition’s attack or parrying the ball into the middle of the penalty area to an onrushing striker. 2. No Man’s Land

The variety of outcomes we record for a goalkeeper defending a cross goes beyond what happens when they connect with the ball. Despite not being recorded by other data providers or easy to find on video platforms given they are ‘omissions’ rather than ‘actions’, these moments happen quite frequently, making up approximately 26% of outcomes for Premier League goalkeepers when they attempt to affect a cross. It can also be extremely costly as it may lead to the opposition having an empty goal to take aim at.

The fear of this happening is in the bones of coaches and fans alike as many can recall a moment when their goalkeeper got caught in the dreaded ‘no man’s land’ and cost their team a goal. Despite his general quality in dealing with crosses, Arsenal fans in particular will remember

16 SPRING 2020 the incident below, when Leno got caught defence which is no longer on high alert The timeframe in which a goalkeeper in ‘no man’s land’ this season, gifting an as they thought the goalkeeper had it has to get to the ball is critical as to equalizing goal to Chelsea. covered. Clearly – each of these outcomes whether they make contact and time are important to record to gain a complete is often in limited supply for crosses As mentioned previously, there are plenty picture of how goalkeepers defend crosses. played within the penalty area and/ of nuanced outcomes that can happen or along the ground. As previously when a goalkeeper comes for a cross but With the ability to identify these off-the- mentioned, in order to cleanly intercept does not make contact – with some likely ball outcomes, we are able to uncover a low cross – a goalkeeper has to get much more costly than others. Looking the situations that give rise to them. This low to the ball, which is more time- beyond ‘no man’s land’ - where the GK allows us to call attention to the types of consuming and gives a goalkeeper less exits to come for a cross, but gets no way crosses that often entice goalkeepers into time to get to the ball. near the ball – we also record the following entering ‘no man’s land’, which will enable off-the-ball actions: the identification of problematic crosses Likewise, with crosses played from nearby, and areas to improve. a goalkeeper inherently has less time to l U-Turn react as the ball travels a shorter distance. l Beaten to Ball by a Teammate The first and perhaps most obvious It is hardly surprising that the Premier l Miss situation are crosses played into areas League goalkeepers recorded an off-the- beyond the six-yard area with the Premier ball action for around 26% of low crosses The ‘U-turn’ is a subtle action that a League goalkeepers in our sample they attempted to come for compared to goalkeeper makes in which they initially recording an off-the-ball action for about 20% of aerial crosses. choose to come for the cross, before about 33% of the crosses they came for retreating after realising they should not outside the six-yard area, compared to They also committed an off-the-ball action have come. Although hardly catastrophic, approximately 17% within it. These almost for 24% of crosses they came for played this action is important to record as always require a goalkeeper to cover from within the box, compared to 20% hit goalkeepers that perform ‘U-turns’ tend to distance to reach the cross, which means from outside. be positioned badly and not set properly the goalkeeper may not reach the ball in for a potential incoming shot, whilst it can time. For a goalkeeper to avoid the dreaded ‘no also lead to indecision in their defenders. man’s land’, it is vital they face these types Moreover, these types of crosses often of crosses in training and learn to develop A ‘miss’ differs from ‘no man’s land’ have opposition players between the a way to approach them. Fundamentally, and records the occasions in which a goalkeeper and the location in which if a given cross ticks many of these goalkeeper gets into a position to make the cross will arrive, who could impede boxes, it may be best to avoid coming contact with the ball but somehow the goalkeeper’s run towards the ball for it whatsoever and leaving it for the manages to miss it entirely. An outcome whilst also potentially getting to the ball defenders. like this can lead to an empty goal and a themselves. Summary

Crossing remains an important yet under-researched area of the modern goalkeeper’s game. At GK1, we are seeking to address this issue by collecting data that captures the nuance of defending crosses – from the variety of outcomes a goalkeeper can perform to assessing the likelihood of a goalkeeper coming for a given cross.

These insights only scratch the surface of what is possible with GK1’s data and analysis. Our services are available throughout 2019/20 with consulting options available to help clubs evaluate goalkeepers for recruitment and in-house To contact our Data Analytics team please email: [email protected] analysis purposes.

SPRING 2020 17

PAUL ROGERS The beginning of a new decade saw MLS side Houston Dynamo recruit GK1 Marko Marić from Hoffenheim. But how did Houston’s recruitment chiefs secure the biggest bang for their buck? We reveal how a host of incremental marginal gains kept Houston steps ahead of the competition.

‘Kaizen’ is a theory which prevails an Analytics Department, revolutionising Having coded a host of variables, throughout Japanese culture; a the recruitment of GK1s. Jackson creates a detailed picture of philosophy of continual improvement, a keepers’ profile, his strengths and embedded in society from schools His idea – to take the guesswork out of importantly, his weaknesses. This info, through to the biggest of big business. recruitment – providing a host of unique combined with age, availability and marginal gains to those who asked for help. transfer value, meant the Dynamo’s It helped Japan recover from the ravages global search for a most vital recruit, was of World War Two to become the region’s Working With GK1 forensic, more exact and more analytical dominant industrial powerhouse. than ever before. “I reached out to Sam purely based on Meaning ‘change for the better’, it mirrors the fact that in my opinion he is the top Added to that, it drastically reduced Paul’s the Theory of Marginal Gains – the mantra person analysing goalkeeping from a scouting missions and led him to a list of which saw Sir Dave Brailsford turn an different angle,” explained Paul, formerly five keepers, perfectly suited to Houston’s under-performing British Cycling team head keeper coach for both the Canadian requirements. into a gold-medal winning machine. and US women’s national team. In short, Houston were getting as close The idea that ever-increasing numbers “He wasn’t just looking at video. He was as possible to the best their money could of 1% improvements will ultimately looking at the background numbers buy. lead to seismic growth. So, how does behind it and then he was adding the video ‘Kaizen’ relate to GK1s – and, in particular, to it. When you start combining both, plus “Sam and I have similar views when it goalkeeper recruitment? the knowledge he has for the position and comes to goalkeeping and the more I the market in general, he just opened my delved, the more value I saw in what Dynamo’s Next Recruit eyes to some things I wasn’t looking at.” World in Motion/GK1 were doing.”

Rewind three years and Paul Rogers, 1st “With Sam’s help, Jason and I looked “I have formed a friendship with Sam team keeper coach at Houston Dynamo, is at different players and who had gone and the information we talk about and on the lookout for the crucial piece in his where. We looked at info that had nothing share is only going to make me better as jigsaw. Budgets are tight, but he knows to do with Houston Dynamos but to do a coach and as a person, reflected Paul, the future MLS success of the Dynamo with goalkeeping and I realised he wasn’t whilst taking a break from pre-season MLS could be significantly affected by the missing the mark too many times in my training.” quality of his next recruit. opinion.” “Sam had to take on board what I am Working alongside Dynamo’s Academy Digging much deeper than clean sheets looking for and what the club are looking keeper coach Jason Grubb, they would – which often rewards a keeper who has for and adapt off what I am saying. We leave no stone unturned, willing to scour little to do – Sam learnt to dig deeper, to disagreed on some keepers for sure and every continent in the hope of uncovering consider save percentages, the power of had different views on some, but we were a Schmeichel, a Cech or de Gea? But the shots faced and where shots are taken starting to get to the point where I felt where to start? from. He records where a keeper parries a every now and then we’d come up with ball to… whether to safety or back into the two or three we agreed on and then we’d Meanwhile, at World In Motion’s London danger zone. In Hollywood terms, it was push a little further and see where we get headquarters Sam Jackson was building Moneyball meets Rainman! to.”

SPRING 2020 19 Marko Marić MLS or Abroad produced more and more throughout the US.” Months of data analysis, phone calls and So will the MLS need to recruit from long-haul flights led Rogers to Lillestrom abroad, or can the States continue to To be able to develop young professional in Norway’s Eliteserien where Marić produce a Casey Keller, Tim Howard or goalkeepers they must be exposed to was on loan. Surrounded by four feet of Brad Guzan? playing professional games with the snow, sat in the stands Rogers knew his pressures of playing in stadiums, in front journey had been worthwhile, watching “There has probably been a slight drop off of fans and where winning matters. the man he knew could become the most over the last few years, maybe due to a important recruit in his career. lack of goalkeeper coach education across With the restructure of the USL leagues the board in US soccer.” explains Jason. there are now more young American “I did watch other keepers live. I flew to goalkeepers playing professionally in Scotland and to Greece. I saw three of four this country than ever before. This is ‘keepers and if I’m honest I’d probably could I can’t only going to have a knock-on effect on have bought any of the four which Sam developing goalkeepers that are tactically recommended and I’m sure they would express how more in tune with the overall game have been successful. But deep down, I demands. knew Marko was the perfect fit for us.” important it “ “The pool of ‘keepers has grown “There is no way I would have found is to have a terrifically over here. Whether it’s the Marko on my own, it’s as simple as that. streamlined Premier League, La Liga, or the MLS Sam has opened up so many doors for us.” itself, young players have much more system not opportunity to really study the game and The network that World in Motion has the position.” in the football industry has gone from only in the strength to strength. “There’s still a long way to go, but their

goalkeeping insight into the game has continued to “You’ve got to think outside the box. grow.” Within the MLS we have different budgets area but all “ and Houston is not a high budgeted team. “With current goalkeepers, there’s a But we think we do a lot of good work with throughout difference in their one-on-one situations. what we do have. the club Sometimes they’re really positive whilst other times, they can be very negative or We’re constantly trying to find ideas passive.” and ways to get ahead - no different to However, the MLS Academy Goalkeeper every other coach. That’s why our work coaches are currently in the middle “For example, the blocking shape. At with World in Motion/GK1 has been so of a yearlong course with the German times, they’re experimenting and trying it - important.” Federation (DFB). The major issue but maybe not in the right situation.” continues to be the consistent “Every number is important: how old they opportunities for goalkeeper coaches at “In our academy, the goalkeepers are are, how many games they’ve played, the the grass roots level to gain information exposed quite quickly to playing with the level they’re playing at and therefore the and feedback via education. ball at their feet. Even down to the Under situations they’re often faced with.” 9s 10s 11s, they’re asked to be that hybrid “Having said that there’s a new wave of player that can do both - have the ability “With Marko, I don’t want to say every box, young goalkeepers coming through. to play with their feet but also have a solid but he ticked most of the boxes that we When you look at someone like Zack base for their technical work as well.” need. After watching him play - I’ve seen Steffen (US national keeper and on loan countless hours of him – I would say he fits at Fortuna Düsseldorf from Manchester ‘A Streamlined System’ the MLS and he fits what we want to do in City), he’s a goalkeeper who’s extremely the club and the type the head coach wants.” well rounded and who’s getting more and Rogers is quick to explain why the more international experience.” relationship between first team “He had enough in every area, and being goalkeeping coach and his opposite exceptional in a few areas, I think he’ll be “He’s got his move to England and I think number in the academy is so vital to an beneficial for both Houston and the MLS.” we will start to see that type of goalkeeper effective GK1 department.

20 SPRING 2020 “I can’t express how important it is to have a streamlined system not only in the goalkeeping area but all throughout the club,” explains Paul, who was brought up in Brighton, but remains an exiled Chelsea fan.

“Jason provides another pair of eyes - he assisted in the signing of Marko and also Michael Nelson, another goalkeeper we have got signed. He’s assisted in all the signings at RGV as well. All this is alongside his work developing goalkeepers through the academy, one of which is close to possibly signing a homegrown contract.

“When I first came, it almost felt like two clubs. Whether it’s coaching philosophy, how we do our training or how we set up our gym work with the sports scientist, we want a goalkeeper who’s coming through the academy at say, 16 years old, of which we have one right now called Logan, (Logan Erb, aged 16) to be comfortable coming to the first team knowing he’s not going to hear completely different words and ideas. That has taken time.”

“We’ve got everyone on the same page, even down to how we’re giving the feedback, how we’re planning our sessions. They’re all very small things, but they add up to a much better flow for the players and for us as coaches. “

“Jason will be in preseason with us and is working with the first team goalkeepers while I’m not available. For me, we’re really just an extension of each other. When we leave, there will be something in place for the next person to build upon.”

After a significant turnover in their goalkeeping group, the GK1s at The Orange Crush (Dynamo’s nickname) are primed for a new campaign. For Marko, the snow drifts of Lillestrom will seem a million miles from the sweltering rays of the Texas sun. For Paul and Jason, they’ll have a month to bring their latest stopper up to speed before they welcome LA Galaxy – and their own new recruit Javier Hernandez to the BBVA stadium.

SPRING 2020 21 The AFC Bournemouth first team assistant goalkeeper coach has been one of the key figures behind Aaron Ramsdale and his rapid rise to the Premier League stage, alongside Head of Goalkeeping Neil Moss, Goalkeeping Analyst Matt Parker, and the three Goalkeeping members of staff. They all work as a tight knit group each day to bring through the next generation of goalkeepers.

Aged just 21-years-old, he was faced with a life changing decision to call time on his promising playing career.

It was Lee Johnson, the then Oldham manager, who offered White the chance to take on the daunting challenge of coaching the club’s first team stoppers, alongside his work with the academy and youth sides.

The words of his former Under-18s coach, Tony Philliskirk, came into his mind as he pondered over the decision to end his playing career.

“If you can’t play for your country, make sure you can coach for them one day,” resonated with White as he decided to take on the daunting task of preparing first choice keeper Paul Rabchubkah - who was 15 years his senior.

White was no stranger to making big decisions, having previously ventured over the Atlantic to Florida to complete a degree in psychology, which would help to sculpt his future projects in the sport.”

“I went over to the US for three and a half years, I did a psychology degree over there before coming back at the age of 21,” he said. “I came back to Oldham, I

22 SPRING 2020 was on £25 a day to take the youth team “We’re at the lower end of the table at horizons with the introduction of in the afternoon and the academy in the the moment, but it’s always a very stable different sports into his sessions. He’s evening, all while training with Crewe environment,” he said. “The mood doesn’t shown the different challenges posed in Alexandra.” really change whether we’re winning or games of handball, volleyball, hockey and losing really. We’re there to do a job and cricket can help a goalkeeper adapt to “I said yes, I was still on £25 a day to do finish as high as we can.” the ever changing landscape of a football the first team in the morning, youth team match. in the afternoon and academy in the evening, but I jumped at the chance at The 28-year-old will use his multi- the age of 21.” Our approach is sports research to form a small part

of his PhD looking into the modern “I did that for half a season, I had Paul that every day goalkeeper, and he hopes his studies Rabchubkah and Mark Oxley, working “ can improve his own attributes as a under me which was crazy, a 36-year- is a puzzle, that top level coach. old goalkeeper and a 21-year-old coach. What are you meant to do that “ “Our theory is that different sports feeds into solving they haven’t already seen?” give the goalkeepers a different the bigger puzzle. puzzle to work out,” he said. “It “I got a three year contract then with doesn’t have to be tactically the Lee Johnson to be a part of his staff, same, like in handball, the ball is I did a masters in sports science and “It’s an environment of learning, you coming from the air instead of the foot or coaching science at that time as well to can go into some clubs where they the head.” add another string of my bow. That got have training and that’s it, but ours in an me on both of my A licenses as well, both environment where players can learn and “And volleyball, it is different tactically, as goalkeeping and outfield, so by the time get better. We get everything we can into is hockey, as is tennis or any other sport I was 24, I had done my goalkeeping A the goalkeepers and they understand we play, but the fundamentals of moving licence, a degree in psychology and a their own identity. At the moment we around the goal and trying to figure out masters in sports science.” have Will Dennis, Mark Travers and Aaron that solution is key for us.” Ramsdale who are all under the age of 22. And it would be in coaching, not playing “The PhD I’m doing is looking at where White would forge his ever-growing “They’re all keen learners who have come goalkeepers in general, at the moment reputation. His first task was to help to through the process here. We got them at we’re looking at the physical side but we build the now established goalkeeping an age where they could be moulded and are going to try and look at the mental department at Bournemouth, where could adapt to how the club plays, but also side as well and the coaching side.” he now works with the likes of Aaron the modern goalkeeper.” Ramsdale, Asmir Begovic, Artur Boruc, “It is an addition to what I’ve already done, Mark Travers and Will Dennis. “Our approach is that every day is a puzzle, an A License is like the PhD of football, so that feeds into solving the bigger puzzle. I’m trying to build on that by focusing on Under the guidance of Eddie Howe, They have to go out and piece it together, the non footballing side things.” Bournemouth have risen to become an find the clues and solve the problem. The established Premier League club, and game on the weekend is the real puzzle, “The FA qualify you with football, but now White believes the learning environment and everything unfolds in a different way.” I’m looking at the psychology and sports they provide to their professionals makes science of it all and with that I’m hoping the Vitality Stadium the perfect place to In an industry where many have tunnel to become more rounded as an individual develop their game. vision, White has broadened his player’s and as a coach.”

SPRING 2020 23 MICHAEL RECHNER

For just shy of a century and a half, a GK1’s primary role has been to stop the ball entering the hole behind them… but does that still remain the case?

Since 1871, when the FA Laws were For any ‘keeper coach to suggest However, the role of a No1 is developing to amended to introduce the goalkeeper, anything different would surely such an extent, that some top clubs now allowing the handling of the ball “for the prompt concerned looks and the scour the globe for ‘keepers whose skillset protection of his goal”, that’s exactly start of a process to find a suitable includes defending the goal…but not what GK1s have done. replacement. necessarily as his or her finest talent.

“When you look at Guardiola, he wants his goalkeeper to play. Other teams in the Premier League don’t want their keeper to play and will go long ball,” explains Michael Rechner, keeper coach of top Bundesliga club Hoffenheim and one of the most respected developers of goalkeeper talent in Europe.

“Then you look at Barcelona. They never go with a long ball. They just want their keeper to pass. So they bought (Marc-André) Ter Stegen. The number one reason? Because of his distribution. Barca didn’t need the best goalkeeper in defending the goal. Distribution was the most important criteria for them,” explains Rechner, founder of ‘Goalkeeping Development’ a training programme for modern goalkeepers.

For some clubs, the need to defend a hole eight feet high (2.44m) and eight yards wide (7.32m) is important, but not the be all and end all.

As we go to press, Hoffenheim have 27 points from 18 games and still harbour hopes of a Europa League position come May. As the Bundesliga winter break came to an end, GK1 caught up with Rechner to find out what other developments were changing the face of goalkeeping across the globe.

24 SPRING 2020 GK1: What would you say has been GK1: Your philosophy of coaching focuses That was the catalyst to allow me to begin the most important development in a lot on ‘distractibility’. With some much creating a philosophy of goalkeeping at ‘keeper coaching since you arrived at happening so quickly, how does a GK1 Hoffenheim. We worked hard on what Hoffenheim five years ago? stay focused on what matters? is now a 12-year project – and I’ve been working with the first team for five years MR: “The mental side of the game, MR: “The decisions a keeper makes are now.” without a doubt. It’s possible to bring a made between the ears. They have a lot goalkeeper to almost 100% in terms of of cognitive elements to consider. Both GK1: Part of that philosophy has been to technique. With a great deal of repetition, the keeper’s character and personality learn from other sports beyond football. a goalkeeper can play with the left and are vitally important in this too. So we try Has that been useful for Hoffenheim? the right foot. In physical terms, you can to recreate these situation in practice. work hard in the gym and get them in What is the keeper’s perception of a MR: “Today it’s vital to look beyond perfect physical condition. But developing situation? Should the keeper defend the our game to see what has been learnt a keeper’s psychology is much, much space or wait on the line and defend the elsewhere. Other sports have a lot of the harder. For me the difference in keepers at goal? So you have to practice that using same problems we have, for example, the highest level are psychological. So we for example air bodies, as they will be the same mental pressures. To be able to all have to work very hard in this area.” distracted during a game.” discuss how other coaches deal with these mental pressures is very rewarding. Take, GK1: With the art of goalkeeping GK1: Your first choice keeper Oliver for example, rugby and how the All Blacks changing so quickly in recent years, Baumann is out following a knee work to deal with pressure; how they what different skills have you installed in operation; your third choice keeper practice on the pitch and in the gym and Hoffenheim’s GKs? Alexander Stolz has injured an elbow how they prepare for a big tournament. while your U19 keeper is also injured. MR: “I’d say the single biggest change is How have you coped? We discussed also with hockey positioning. As a team, we like to press, goalkeepers how they prepare themselves with our team very high - so we need MR: “We acted quickly and brought in for important games. More on the our goalkeeper with a high position to Michael Esser from Hanover and he mental side than the athletic side. Here defend the space behind the last line. is doing very well. We’ve known of his in Germany we have worked with some Our goalkeepers need to be able to read qualities for many years and he is working of the top field hockey, ice hockey and the game; they need to be intelligent very hard and he knows his role in the handball teams to see what we might goalkeepers, able to find in all situations group. Oliver Baumann will come back. learn.” the right position. In the past you had And we also have a good number two ‘keepers who kept a very deep position (Phillipp Pentke) right now so it’s a good GK1: Over the years, Germany has and did nothing more than defend the situation.” produced so many brilliant goalkeepers goal. – from Sepp Maier, to Kahn and Neuer. GK1: You were once the German national Have you seen the evidence to suggest These days coaches have very detailed keeper at under 18 level. Yet at 24, you this will continue? game plans; they know exactly if they decided that your future lay within the will attack on the right or on the left or game as a coach. That must have been a MR: “Yes. The whole system within using the long ball. For this they need a difficult decision to make? Germany is very good right now, from goalkeeper who can start this idea on schools and youth clubs upwards. But we the pitch, who can play with the right MR: “I played for the Under 18s three times have had to change the way we do things or left foot, can pass first time, who has and had my first contract as a professional here and we have had to study other got good long kicks and side volleys, in Hamburg. I then moved to Mannheim systems including the ones in England. while remaining in the right positions. and Leipzig and played in the second and We have had a close look at what the FA If an opponent is pressing very high, third tiers. By 24, I knew that to get to were doing. They have done a fantastic then the keeper needs to be able to the top level was beyond me, so I began job. We’re fortunate here because we play it over two lines of the opponents, studying sports science and got my have a lot of goalkeepers. Lots of kids so good technique is vital. On top of license to coach. Five years’ experience want to be goalkeepers. I talk to coaches all this, we need our keepers to make as a pro combined with my qualifications from other countries and they have kids good decisions. As you can see, these at university was interesting enough for who want to be strikers, they want to requirements are very different to those Hoffenheim to offer me a role to work with shoot the goals, but here we are very from 15 or 20 years ago.” their academy keepers, when I was 28. lucky.”

SPRING 2020 25

BARTOSZ BIAŁKOWSKI Bartosz Bialkowski is the Championship’s busiest goalkeeper, but he wouldn’t have it any other way with the prospect of a European adventure on the horizon.

The Polish star has been winning plaudits The GK1 client is reaping the rewards of this season for a string of stunning his summer loan move away from Ipswich performances that have been at the Town, the club where he was lauded heart of Millwall’s resurgent league over with three consecutive Player of the campaign under Gary Rowett. Some Season awards. highlight-reel reaction saves have cemented his reputation as one of the But the long path Bialkowski has division’s top stoppers and reminded the navigated down on his journey through Poland management of his international English football has been far from smooth. credentials ahead of Euro 2020. His journey began with a rapid rise “Being busy is what goalkeepers want. through the ranks in Poland after making When you are making saves and you his top-flight debut aged just 17, where he are in the game, that’s when you enjoy it was spotted by admirers in Scotland. most,” he said. “When you aren’t having to make saves, it is much tougher because Then Hearts manager George Burley then it is a mental challenge, you need invited Bialkowski to trial with his side to keep concentration really high and be in the Scottish capital, but his hopes of ready to make that one save, even if it signing with the top-flight side were comes in the 90th minute.” decimated when Burley left his post by mutual consent. “When you have saves to make every 10 minutes or so, you are warm and helping Just when it looked as if his chance to your team which is great.” secure a big move away from home had faltered, he received a phone call that “We’ve got an unbelievable dressing changed his life forever. room, it’s one of the best I’ve ever been in. We have a tight squad who are very close Burley had been appointed Southampton with each other.” boss - and he wanted 18-year-old Bialkowski to be his number one. “It’s my job to make those saves, it’s no surprise because every goalkeeper makes “I made my debut in Poland’s third division these saves in training but sometimes when I was 15 at my hometown club. After you get a bit of luck to show everyone that I signed with Górnik Zabrze in the at the game what you can do.” first division and made my debut not long after,” he said. Sometimes it comes off, “I played about seven league games and sometimes when I was 18 I went to Hearts on trial and not but that’s where I met George Burley, who was when you’re manager at the time. He left the club soon enjoying after that and joined Southampton, but he playing and training told me not to sign anything with Hearts these saves become because he had a job in England and he easier to make.” wanted to sign me.”

SPRING 2020 27 “I turned down a contract at Hearts and Saints legend Kelvin Davis was brought in “And then came my best years in football just like he promised, George called my and forged a reputation as a club legend, at Ipswich. I’m the only Ipswich player agent and I signed for Southampton.” while Bialkowski had to watch on from the who won three Player of the Year awards bench. And he knew he had to make the in a row and it’s something I’m really “Playing in England was always my dream bold move to drop down the leagues to proud of.” since I was a young boy. I always loved reinvigorate his career. English football, even the national team.” “It was brilliant under Mick McCarthy and “I had to drop down a level to Notts goalkeeper coach Malcom Webster, who True to his word, Burley handed his young County because I needed to play every was the coach at Southampton as well.” goalkeeper his first start on just two hours week,” he said. “I needed to prove to notice. Ninety minutes and one clean sheet myself I could still achieve something in “After those three years it was clear that later, he was in dreamland, but a cruciate football. That was my last chance to enjoy dropping down the leagues was the right ligament injury changed everything. football again and I definitely did.” choice and everything paid off.”

28 SPRING 2020 It wasn’t only the coaches and supporters at Ipswich who had spotted his talents as Poland came calling.

Bialkowski realised a boyhood dream when he came onto make his debut in a 2018 World Cup warm-up against Nigeria, but he never truly believed he would be selected in the final squad, until he was taken for a quiet word by manager Adam Nawalka.

“The World Cup was an amazing experience, I didn’t expect the call up before the World Cup and I certainly didn’t expect to be in the final squad.”

”I trained well and that was it, the manager pulled me to one side and told me I was going to be in the squad.”

“The whole experience was fantastic, even though we didn’t do too well in the group stages, the experience was incredible and it will stay with me for the rest of my life.”

Poland will be aiming to atone for their disappointing tournament campaign when the best international sides from across the continent battle it out for supremacy at Euro 2020.

Bialkowski may be the form gloveman in the Championship, but he is not letting himself dream of another tournament adventure with the fierce competition in his nation’s goalkeeping department.

“I don’t want to look into the future, I just want to concentrate on the present,” he added. “I came here to play football and to play well again and the key motivation for me is to do everything I can to get back on track.”

“GK1 and World in Motion have been fantastic, in that respect. I’ve been with them for two and a half years now. I’ve got a really close relationship with Danny Naisbitt and I can always give them a call and they are there to help me with anything.”

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Buy online now: www.shop.uhlsport.com 46 years and 6 World Cup titles after reusch developed the world’s first modern day goalkeeper glove, the brand’s mission continues to be to create the perfect fit, the ultimate grip, the absolute protection. Development in recent years has seen innovations like the Evolution Hybrid Cut, the evolving and increasing Pure Contact range, new FreeGel technology, exclusive G3 SpeedBump latex and new in 2020 the new Ortho-Tec Advanced Protection System, featuring an updated and exclusive finger spine construction.

Now across the globe, reusch have over 220 goalkeepers playing in the top leagues in their countries, also competing and winning trophies in regional and International competitions. All these goalkeepers put their trust in reusch gloves and that includes the current World Cup winning goalkeeper, Hugo Lloris of Tottenham Hotspur and France. Hugo’s glove of choice is the new 2020 style, the Attrakt G3 Fusion Evolution Negative Cut Guardian. The features of the glove include: G3 Fusion latex which provides the best grip at all times including fusion pieces which increase all-weather grip and durability and has an extremely tacky feel. Evolution Negative Cut which offers a tight fit, but is soft and flexible with a great ergonomic fit which maximises the feel of the ball and a great overall look!

As a specialist brand, reusch can offer a choice of products to suit all goalkeepers around the world. Be the One!

Viper Goalkeeping founded by Professional Goalkeeper James Montgomery & Non-League Goalkeeper Carl Morris is a brand set up for goalkeepers by goalkeepers. James Currently plays professionally for AFC Fylde after joining from Forest Green Rovers last summer. Carl has now taken up a career in Goalkeeper coaching after concluding his playing days due to injury having had a successful non-league career.

Viper GK was established in August 2017 and we are already widely used in the Football League and have a Wembley play- off win with our main endorsement Lee Burge (GK1 client) & Coventry City (now at Sunderland AFC). Some other popular names in our endorsement list include Pete Jameson (York City), Robbie Mutch (Falkirk), James Aspinall (Wigan Athletic), Ryan Boot (Solihull Moors), Liam Connel (Darlington), Hannah Reid / Megan Bothwick (Durham Woman) and Laura Wareham (Middlesbrough Woman).

Over the last couple of years, we have built up a very solid reputation within grassroots, Non-League, Women’s Football & the Football League.

Viper GK gloves are affordable at all levels but the quality can’t be matched at the price of the gloves. We produce gloves that compete with the biggest named brands but only at a 1/3 of the price.

As goalkeepers, we thought it was starting to get a little crazy when gloves were being sold for £100 per pair so we aim to produce quality gloves whilst not burning a hole in the pocket at the same time!

Every year we grow to get bigger and better, we’ve learnt a few little things along the way but plan on continuing to grow to be one of the country’s top goalkeeping brands. We’ve just had the go ahead for our 20/21 season range and we’re really looking forward to dropping it as it’s got some special designs in there and bound to be the best one yet!

At Viper GK we will continue to grow with another Football League pro joining our ranks this summer. This also includes a brand-new Goalkeeper Academy starting in the North East of England. www.vipergk.co.uk @vipergoalkeeping @VIPERGK @vipergk Viper Goalkeeping endorsee and GK1 client: Lee Burge UDO SECKELMANN SPORTS LAWYER

Exceptions in English football regulations pertaining to goalkeepers: registration and temporary transfers

There To Be Shot At, Forever Under Fire

The life of a professional goalkeeper is probably the most unfortunate and cruel of all the eleven positions in football. It does not matter if goalkeepers do everything right during a twenty year career; one mistake can mark their whole life and even erase all their positive accomplishments from fans’ memories.

Loris Karius could testify to that after the UEFA Champions League Final 2017/2018. From heaven to hell in two seconds. As the popular saying goes: there to be shot at, forever under fire.

Despite the fragility and unpredictability of aspects in the goalkeeping profession, the national and international rules and regulations that apply to them are generally applicable to all positions. However, there are some exceptions set forth in the FA Handbook 2019/2020 and the Premier League Handbook 2019/2020 when it comes to goalkeepers that could be useful for both goalkeepers and clubs.

Do Not Lose Hope: Registration Of Additional Goalkeepers

The first exception relates to the registration of additional goalkeepers. It is well known that a player shall not be eligible to play in a competition unless and until a valid registration form is received by the FA. As a general rule, new registrations, new loans and transfer of registrations will be declined by the FA when concluded after the Registration Period. The exception to such rule is explained in Another important topic regarding the Players other than goalkeepers may not Rule 6.4.10 of the FA Handbook. If none temporary transfer of goalkeepers is the be recalled within the first month, i.e. of a club’s registered goalkeepers are regulatory distinction for ‘Short Term twenty-eight days, of any loan (Rule 6.6.2 – available ahead of a competition match, Loans’ vis-à-vis ‘Long Term Loans’. Standardised Rules). the FA, at its discretion, may approve at any time the registration of an additional In accordance to the FA Handbook 2019- On the other hand, a player on Long Term goalkeeper on a short-term basis. 2020, a ‘Short Term Loan’ of a player Loan may be recalled on any date from the means a loan transfer with a minimum beginning of the loan until 31st August and Therefore, if you are an unregistered period of twenty-eight days and a between 1st and 31st January, except for goalkeeper, do not lose hope – and maximum period to the end of the playing a goalkeeper or where the player is to be perhaps wish for the unavailability of the season. transferred permanently by the club holding registered ones! his registered contract in each case, subject A ‘Long Term Loan’ means a loan transfer to the agreement of the loaning club, the Temporary Transfers: Is It Too in excess of ninety-three days, which can borrowing club and the also player. Late To Recall? be a full playing season; or from any date prior to 31st August to any date between Hence, clubs and goalkeepers should be According to the Premier League 1st and 31st January; or from any date aware of these possibilities when deciding Handbook 2019-2020, not more than two between 1st and 31st January to the end of whether to sign – or extend – a Short Term temporary transfers shall be registered by the playing season. Loan or a Long Term Loan. The wording of a club at the same time. Nonetheless, the the recall clause must also be clear and in temporary transfer of a goalkeeper can be If the Short Term Loan is extended, only line with the applicable regulations. excluded from this number. At its absolute the club for whom the player was originally discretion and in certain circumstances, registered may terminate the agreement In summary, all these regulatory the FA may consider exceptions (Rule at any time within the extension period, i.e. exceptions point in one direction: V.7.6.2). after twenty-eight days. goalkeepers should always be prepared regardless of the situation. That applies to In this sense, it is worth noting that a club In the case of a goalkeeper, clubs may both on and off the pitch. A superb save may temporarily transfer the registration mutually agree to include a recall clause during a match may help the team win of no more than one of its goalkeepers to in the agreement to enable the club for a match, but a good knowledge of the another club each season, subject to any whom the player was originally registered applicable regulations and the exceptions further temporary transfer of one of its to recall the player at any time during the may represent a game-changer in a goalkeepers pursuant to Rule V.7.6.2. loan period. goalkeeper’s career.

Udo Seckelmann Sports Lawyer – Bichara e Motta Advogados

[email protected] www.bicharaemotta.com.br/en @USeckelmann @udoseckelmann www.linkedin.com/in/udo-seckelmann- b4238414b/?originalSubdomain=br

SPRING 2020 39 OUTSIDE THE BOX

The goalkeeper turned Sean Murdoch professional referee As is common knowledge in football, many players find coming towards the end of their career difficult. A career in football can pass in the blink of an eye, and those who were used to training every day and puling on a club shirt every Saturday, suddenly don’t.

At GK1, our ‘Outside the Box’ referee in Scotland. I had to retire in feature attempts to explore my early thirties to try and make the the interesting avenues grade and that’s what I’ve done. that players can go down when the time finally Many players find life after a arrives to take off the playing career difficult. How gloves or hang up did you find the transition the boots for the last prior to hanging up the time. gloves?

Sean Murdoch is a “That’s a very good question. man with bags of Fortunately, my wife had a family football experience. business, so I was always working The ex-pro Scottish part-time in that whilst I was playing. goalkeeper had a The time was right for me to go into a playing career spanning full-time position within the business from 2003 to 2019, playing for and to be honest, I was a little bit teams such as Hibernian, Hamilton fortunate in that way. Academical and Dunfermline Athletic in Scotland as well as I’ve always had my hands in other Accrington Stanley in England. things as well such as property, I’ve However, it is not most likely that always done property as I know how Murdoch will be remembered difficult it can be to stop playing and for his playing days, but more for his You passed your first refereeing suddenly there’s no income coming ambition to become one of Scotland and exam at only 21 years of age; did in. So for me, the transition was okay and I Europe’s top referees after playing the you always plan to become a count myself quite lucky in a way.” game professionally himself. referee after your playing career? What advice would you give to Already a qualified Category 3 “Yes, I did actually! I read an article about players/goalkeepers who are development referee after taking his first a referee’s course in Motherwell and I was close to finishing their careers? exam at the age of 21, the Scotsman has playing at Hamilton at the time which was voiced his goal to make his way to the top close by. I went along to it and thoroughly “To be completely honest I think if of the officiating ladder. enjoyed it, after that I was able to do you’re close to finishing your career you amateur games or youth games and I probably need to have been preparing We sat down with Sean to find out more was doing a lot of games whilst I was still a bit before! There is tonnes and tonnes about his transition from professional playing. of work at the PFA in England and at PFA goalkeeper to qualified referee and what it Scotland to get you prepared, there’s also is like to have swapped the gloves for the Since then, it’s always been an ambition of lots of courses that you can do to help. I whistle. mine to try and make it to a Category One think the main thing is to just be prepared,

40 SPRING 2020 work out what makes you tick and what Fitness as well. For me, referees have to will be enjoyable for you after football. be the fittest on the park, and they really Whether that’s maybe staying in football do. I do between 12km-15km per match, or something else, prepare quickly and which is actually quite astonishing! Even don’t leave it too late.” by just watching me you’d never think I run that far but I do! Also, personality. Have your experiences of playing You have to have a good personality to the game helped you as a referee be able to interact with the players and in any way? have a little joke at times. That’s all you have as a referee when it comes down to “Absolutely, without a doubt. It’s a very it; your whistle, your cards and your unique situation and I can’t think of any personality, and you have to use that ex-player that’s played the majority of his to the best of your advantage. life at a decent level throughout his career who is now a referee! It can only stand Do you have any goals or me in good stead. I’ve watched the top aspirations you would like to fulfil referees throughout my career in-match, in your career as a referee? and it means I know what to look out for. It really does give me a massive advantage “I want to referee the World Cup final! And and I’m using that to my benefit.” that really is my ambition. I want to go to the European stage to be the top referee. I What do you think are the key want it so when people think of a referee, attributes needed to be a good they say my name. To be getting the top referee in the modern game? when to give more fouls when the game games, being the top official, and I can do is heated and knowing when to just let it. Time is on my side, I’m fit and I’m young “Game management is the top one for me. the game flow – not giving yellow cards – I’ve got lots of things that are going well Nobody is going to get all the decisions here there and everywhere that will for me. I’m not here to just plod along and right, whether that’s with VAR or without have absolutely no effect on the game make a quick buck or two here and there - VAR. Controlling the players, knowing whatsoever. I want to go all the way to the top.”

SPRING 2020 41 Meet the team The World in Motion Group and GK1 Management, is one of the UK’s foremost sports management companies, with a reputation for both professional excellence and integrity. The company offers a comprehensive and exclusive management service to footballers, and each aspect of a player’s career is dealt with by a qualified expert. Andy Evans - Chairman and Registered Intermediary Chairman and founder of World in Motion (in 1997), Andy’s experience in the fields of commercial and sports law is one of the foundation stones of our success. Having established a reputation as a formidable lawyer with international law firm, Freshfields, Andy became a licensed FA players’ agent in 1997 and has negotiated over 500 transfers. He is fluent in French and Spanish and represents clubs home and abroad, helping them find the finest talents around the globe. Andy is also editor-in-chief of GK1 magazine. Email: [email protected]

Charles Mountifield - Chief Executive Officer As Chief Executive Officer at World in Motion, Charles works closely with Chairman Andy Evans on company operations in general and business development in Australia in particular. Charles is a former Director of World in Motion and after twenty years working in professional sport in the UK and France, Charles returned to Australia in 2011 with Essentially Group and was the company’s CEO until 2014. Charles read law and sports management at university and holds an LLM in Sports Law and an MSc in Sports Management. He speaks French and combines his role at World in Motion with consultancy work and university lecturing. Email: [email protected] Bill Pethybridge - Licensed Players Agent Bill joined World in Motion in 2000 from a leading multi discipline marketing agency, Exposure, where he was heavily involved in the planning and implementation of nationwide promotional and marketing campaigns. Prior to Exposure, Bill spent six years working as an Event co-ordinator and travelled Europe working at high profile sporting events. After gaining his FIFA licence in 2001 Bill has built up his own portfolio of clients, and now represents a number of Premier League and Football League players. As World in Motion has grown, Bill has taken on more responsibility in terms of recruiting and managing young players and developing our links with foreign players and their representatives. Email: [email protected]

James Lippett - Licensed Players Agent James joined World in Motion from New Era Global Sports in October 2010, having obtained his Agent’s License in 2008. Based in London, James has a domestic client list comprising Premier League, Championship, League 1 and 2. He also represents a number of international players that are currently playing overseas and a select group of Managers/Head Coaches. James has also become an influential agent in the German market having negotiated transfers to take players to Bundesliga/Bundesliga 2 and also has also moved players from Germany to England. Email: [email protected]

Charlie McNicholas - Licensed Players Agent Charlie joined the World in Motion team in 2010. He is responsible for the identification and recruitment of UK talent and for our Spanish and Portuguese office. A graduate of Oxford University, Charlie is also fluent in three foreign languages, enabling him to play an integral role in the rapidly expanding overseas division of World in Motion. Email: [email protected]

Mark Bennett - Licensed Players Agent Mark has had a fifteen-year career in the football industry and has built a notable reputation as an international intermediary. He has successfully negotiated numerous contracts for players and clubs in both the UK and throughout Europe. Mark brings a host of skills to World in Motion including professionalism, integrity and a focus on building long term associations with clients. Email: [email protected]

Danny Naisbitt - FA Licensed Intermediary Danny Naisbitt joined the World in Motion team in February 2016. Ex-professional goalkeeper Danny had a playing career which lasted over twenty years and he played for a host of clubs including; Middlesbrough, Walsall, Barnet, Brentford, AFC Wimbledon, Histon, Brighton (loan) and Cambridge United. Danny’s clients include Premier League players/goalkeepers. Email: [email protected]

Ian Bird - Sports Agent Ian joined World in Motion after several years in the industry spent establishing Evolution Sports Management, specialising in Cricket, Rugby and Boxing. Based in Cardiff, the business has established a strong market presence and Ian has developed a reputation for honest, ethical management. Ian brings with him a stable of talented clients and will look to develop new areas of business at World in Motion along with promoting the overall brand. Email: [email protected]

42 SPRING 2020 Michael Gorman - Attorney & Licensed Player Agent Michael manages the American MLS and South American markets for World in Motion, dividing his time between Los Angeles and Medellin, Colombia. His strong relationships in South America and understanding of the complex MLS rules have helped him to negotiate over €25 million in total transactions since 2012. Michael speaks Spanish fluently and previously worked as a finance attorney for investment funds and the United States federal government. Email: [email protected]

Gabor Lucza - Football Consultant Gabor runs the Central European office for World in Motion and divides his time between Hungary and England. Gabor is a former Hungarian U19 player, whose career was cut short by injury at the age of 21. Before joining World in Motion, Gabor was with Nike Hungary for a number of years, forming relationships with clubs, players and corporates. Gabor has excellent relationships with a number of clubs in Central and Eastern Europe and has been integral in developing a successful Central European branch of the company. Email: [email protected]

Dejan Smuk - Football Consultant Dejan Smuk joined World in Motion in 2015. He was CEO at a leading outdoor advertising provider in Slovenia, also worked in Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina and Macedonia. The company has been owned by two private equity funds from the UK and Poland and having been sold to one of the major global outdoor advertising groups, he was involved in implementation of regionwide promotional and marketing campaigns which brought him a wealth of contacts in a Balkan region. The former football player has a background in coaching and scouting and has previously worked with a lot of football clubs in the region, where he was responsible for marketing and development strategy. This brought him an in-depth knowledge of the former Yugoslavian football market. Dejan speaks English and all languages of former Yugoslavian countries. Email: [email protected]

Theo Karasavvidis - Football Consultant A former professional football player who played for the Greek National Team, made over 300 appearances in the Greek Super league and spent seven years playing in Italy, Theo has been a football agent for over ten years. He has been involved in many major transfers and he is considered to be an expert in finding young, talented athletes. He has an excellent knowledge of the Italian and Greek football market and is fluent in Italian, Greek and English. Email: [email protected]

Filip Lesniewski - Football Consultant Subsequent to joining World in Motion, Filip has transferred players all over the world from China to MLS. A graduate of International University of Monaco, Filip is fluent in four foreign languages, enabling him to play an integral role in the company’s overseas division. In the last four years Filip has brokered a number of deals at clubs in the top divisions of England, Germany, Greece, Poland, Holland, Belgium and Scandinavia. Email: [email protected]

Sascha Beumer – Football Consultant Based in Düsseldorf, Sascha works as a consultant to World in Motion. Sascha has a background as a former football player and as a specialist solicitor in sports law. Sascha has been been involved in numerous transfers and contract extensions, has a strong reputation with players, clubs and other agents and has an excellent knowledge of the German football market. Email: [email protected]

Alex Wylie - Head of Data Analytics As Head of Data Analyitcs at World in Motion, Alex identifies talent and provides support to football clubs with their recruitment processes. In addition to holding BSc and MRes degrees, he is an accomplished programmer who brings experience of implementing data science techniques within a myriad of industries – including professional football at Leicester City. Email: [email protected]

Ben Read - Social Media and Database Manager Ben joined World in Motion in 2019 to take responsibility of the company’s online presence through social media, as well as working closely with agents to manage the in-house database / app. Ben holds a BSc in Psychology and during his time at University published a dissertation on the ‘Impact of Colour on Sports Performance’ focussing specifically on a large sample of English Premier League games. Ben was also deputy editor of this magazine. Email: [email protected] Your future in safe hands

World In Motion Chancery House 1 Lochaline Street London W6 9SJ

Tel: + 44 (0) 20 8741 6060 Fax: + 44 (0) 20 8741 6062 Email: [email protected] www.worldinmotion.com Email: [email protected] www.gk1.co.uk

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