Professional Attacking Tactics 2018 [PDF]

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Professional ATTACKING

TACTICS

IMPROVE YOUR TEAM’S ATTACKING PLAY

Jurgen Klopp Claudio Ranieri Eddie Howe Sean Dyche Sam Allardyce Tony Pulis Aitor Karanka Carlo Ancelotti Sir Alex Ferguson Andre Villas-Boas Gordon Strachan Michael O’Neill Guus Hiddink SOCCER

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Professional ATTACKING

TACTICS

Professional ATTACKING

TACTICS Exclusive Training Drills From Top Professional Coaches

SOCCER

CREDITS Professional Attacking Tactics is published by:

Green Star Media Ltd Meadow View, Tannery Lane, Guildford, Surrey, GU5 0AB, UK Tel: +44 (0) 1483 892 894 Email: [email protected] ISBN: 978-1-910338-88-9 Editor: Chris Hunt Contributing Editor: Mark Farthing, LMA Illustrator: Richard Palmer Photos: Reuters Media Customer Services: Duncan Heard Production: Green Star Media Ltd Managing Director: Andrew Griffiths Publishedinpartnershipwith:

League Managers Association St George’s Park, National Football Centre, Newborough Road Needwood Burton upon Trent DE13 9PD Tel: +44 (0)1283 576350 Email: [email protected] This publication is protected by national and international copyright laws. Elite Soccer will take legal action against any individuals or organisations found to be infringing our rights, and will make that action public. Elite Soccer members who have purchased this report may circulate electronic or hard copies to members of their own club or school, provided this is done without commercial gain. However, no part or whole of this report may be circulated elsewhere or displayed on any website or distributed commercially except under licence from the copyright owners. © Green Star Media Ltd. All rights reserved

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NOVEMBER 2016

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may 2014

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JUNE 2016

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CoaChing praCtiCes from the world’s leading managers and CoaChes

COACHING PRACTICES FROM THE WORLD’S LEADING MANAGERS AND COACHES

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Exclusive top Training practices from rs professional manage

Exclusive top Training practices from rs professional manage

JURGEN KLOPP COUNTER-PRESSING AS LIVERPOOL

Each month, the world’s best coaches contribute their favourite sessions to Elite Soccer to help coaches like you get an insight into the training practices used at leading clubs and national teams.

AN OFFENSIVE WEAPON

LUTON TOWN

OMONIA NICOSIA

THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION

NATHAN JOHN BEN JONES CARVER BARTLETT Use of space and Attacking in a 8v8 with a back switching 4-4-2 formation three

LEICESTER CITY

CLAUDIO maUriCio poChettino RANIERI COUNTER-ATTACKING soUthampton

PRESSING INITIATION:

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

POSITIONS • PRINCIPlES • PuRPOSE

BURTON ALBION

mK dons LMA AMBASSADOR

plYmoUth argYle

SAM ROSE Pressing boxes

KENNY Karl DALGLISH roBinson AttackingClever play movement and interplayaround the box

darrell John ClarKe sheridan Firing forwards Defending from close range crosses

Bristol roVers

sC taVriYa

AND TRANSITIONS

lma amBassador INTER MILAN

adam peter ROBERTO sadler farrell MANCINI Brilliant Possession Decisive attacking breaks throughthe thirds defending

AIRBUS UK BROUGHTON

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

LMA AMBASSADOR

OXFORD UNITED

NEIL WARNOCK

MATT ANDY MICHAEL WILSHER PREECE APPLETON Centralattacking Exploiting wide Improvisation areas thefinalthird

& KEVIN BLACKWELL

Finishing

LMA AMBASSADOR

EXTRA-TIME INTERVIEW: WITH BURNLEY MANAGER SEAN DYCHEextra-time interView: with wales national team manager Chris Coleman EXTRA-TIME INTERVIEW: WITH TOTTENHAM MANAGER MAURICIO POCHETTINO

SO, IF YOU WANT TO TAKE YOUR COACHING TO THE NEXT LEVEL SUBSCRIBE TO ELITE SOCCER TODAY AND GET UP TO £54 WORTH OF COACHING MANUALS FREE! WWW.ELITESOCCERCOACHING.NET OR CALL US ON 01483 892894 PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

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CONTENTS Jurgen Klopp Counter-pressing as an offensive weapon Claudio Ranieri Counter-attacking and transitions Eddie Howe Breaking lines Sean Dyche Turning to play forward

1

3 6 10

Sam Allardyce Diagonal passing

12

Tony Pulis Scoring from crosses

14

Aitor Karanka Offensive transition Carlo Ancelotti Attacking movement in a 4-3-2-1 formation

Neil Warnock The confrontation line

34

Kenny Dalglish Attacking movement and interplay

36

Owen Coyle Changing the point of attack

39

Alex McLeish Whole team attacking

41

Carlo Ancelotti & Paul Clement Overlapping against a low defensive block and in counter-attacking 43

16

19

Steve McLaren Transition, rotating and attacking

45

Roberto Di Matteo Attacking aims

47

Gus Poyet Assisted crossing in the final third

49

Sir Alex Ferguson Attacking wing play and shooting

23

Neil Lennon Counter-attacking masterclass

51

Andre Villas-Boas Working on the counter-attack

26

Steve Clarke Penalty box session

53

29

Alan Pardew Playing forward in a 4-3-3

55

30

Malky Mackay Overlapping

58

Gordon Strachan Attacking using direct central passing Michael O’Neill Positive pockets

Guus Hiddink & Steve Holland Reactions in the box 33 PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

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JURGEN KLOPP Jurgen Klopp Counter-pressing as an offensive weapon SET-UP AREA

Extended half-pitch EQUIPMENT

Balls, cones, goals NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Use of full squad SESSION TIME

Warm-up 10mins, Tactical rondo 20mins, Tactical game 30mins

Overview: This session is about the creation and application of the counter-pressing moment as an offensive weapon. It looks at recovering possession in the shortest way and time, by creating ‘hectic situations’ in the opposition formation. To this end, there are several principles that give us our identity. We want to attack the opponent non-stop when we have the ball, when we lose it and when the opposition have it. Put another way, defending is our first offensive action. Each exercise should have this character, directly defined by our specific way of playing, where everyone is responsible for everything in the form of modern total football. In real terms, that means we have a team of 11 at a time, each of whom is an attacking forward and each of whom is a defender.

“We want to create hunger towards ball recovery, creating chaotic moments and controlling these moments by being ‘quick in mind’, with orientation, skill, precision and connection.”

What do I get the players to do?

Tactical rondo

In a 12x12-yard area we use three teams of three playing a 6v3 possession game, as shown (1). There is no limit on touches and the team that loses the ball should react immediately, pressing the other two teams. The closest player applies intense aggressive pressure and we defend in a triangle, while the other two players control the spaces around the ball and anticipate. In this sense, counter-pressing is the next requirement, and to be clear, this isn’t laid down as a proposal – it’s a law! What are the key things to look out for? In this exercise we want to create the right focus towards the essential part of the session. We want to create hunger towards ball recovery, creating chaotic moments and controlling these moments by being ‘quick in mind’, with orientation, skill, precision and connection. We want short intense periods alternating with rest periods so players stay fresh and alert to absorbing information and learning all the time. The closest player goes 100% and puts total effort into the press. One player can always defend two opposition by blocking the line, pressing the ball carrier and checking over the shoulder. The two last yards of the press define everything. As far as aggression goes – yes please! – but this must be controlled with an anticipation of where the next pass PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

1

2 The closest player applies intense aggressive pressure 1 Defenders work in a triangle

3 His two team mates monitor and control spaces around the ball in anticipation of a pass between opponents

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

In this 6v3 tactical rondo we have set up whites and yellows against the three reds

will go, and with team mates reorganising as a group constantly and quickly. In terms of typical mistakes, we will sometimes witness disappointment after losing possession whereby players offer no immediate reaction. Development takes time – it 1

takes time for players to make decisions based on the collective interventions and references. We don’t want a linear or mechanical state of play – a good and creative development takes time. A high-intensity and counter-pressing team will

often make more mistakes because we attempt more and perhaps accomplish more – ultimately, patience and an expectation of making mistakes is actually okay.

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JURGEN KLOPP COUNTER-PRESSING AS AN OFFENSIVE WEAPON How do I put this into a game situation? Using the full width of the pitch as shown (2a), and in three quarters of a pitch, one team of eight attacks a team of six. The team of six has one extra player who comes alive when they win possession. The team of eight works on their offensive organisation, their protection and the counter-pressing principle, with players chased like they have never been chased before! They do this in 3x6mins bursts, with 4mins rest in between, changing players in between the rest periods. To advance this, we can put two ‘sleeping’ players in, so creating better and more complex ‘protection’. Here, the offensive organisation is to attract and then go. We want to unbalance the two lines by quick and early circulation (offensive aggression), and our players must overlap to create dangerous crossing situations, as shown (2b). In terms of typical mistakes, this can often come down to there being no protection, therefore the team of six can easily find the sleeping player and counter-attack and cover spaces well. Players can forget where the sleeping player is, and there is also that disappointment factor again in losing possession. Instead, we want them to react, viewing any loss of possession as an opportunity (to win it back).

“A high-intensity and counter-pressing team will often make more mistakes because we attempt more and perhaps accomplish more – ultimately, patience and an expectation of making mistakes is actually okay.” PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

2a 3 Defenders shuffle across following the movement of the ball

4 They prepare to close down with a specific view of closing off angles and runners

2 Moving the ball to one side unbalances the opposition lines 1 The team of eight (reds) work on their offensive organisation – in this example it is to ‘attack then go’

2b 2 Again (now coming back the other way), moving the ball to one side unbalances the opposition lines

1 Turnover of possession comes on the right flank

3 Attackers move into any available position in bursting forward at pace

5 A goal is scored 4 Quick passing creates a goalscoring opportunity

2

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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CLAUDIO RANIERI Claudio Ranieri Counter-attacking and transitions

Phase one (finishing and crossing) 1a

SET-UP AREA

Half-pitch or half-pitch plus 18yds EQUIPMENT

Balls, discs, goals NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Up to 10v10 SESSION TIME

30mins

Overview: This session is about counterattacking with pace on the first phase, decision-making and gamerelated play thereafter. It is match-realistic and gamerelated for all positions. So in attacking play we want to see shots on goal, with movement to create or score. In terms of defending play, this is about defending crosses into the box, so players have to ask if they defend space or the man. We also want to keep a close eye on distances – we always work on the compactness of the back four, whilst being aware of the need to stop crosses, with technical defending techniques also visible. We would typically run this session on a Tuesday or Thursday, for the reason that it is done at a high intensity and needs to be undertaken well away from match day. We wouldn’t necessarily introduce it every week, but regularly so that players keep hold of the benefits of quick counterattacking. What do I get the players to do? Phase one (finishing and crossing) We set this up as 5v5. It is characterised by two shots on goal by the two blue players in the red squares (1a), followed by a cross that will lead to phase 2 (1b). The yellow players must defend this – four in the standard way and the other staying out ready to start the counter-attack (something that the deepest blue player needs to be aware of). Sure enough, if the keeper catches the ball, yellows will look to counter-attack, trying to finish with an attempt on goal. PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

1 Blues set up across the box

3 A shot must come from a blue in a square

2 Yellows press

1b

1 Attacking blues run into the key areas 2 A cross is sent in from the flank 3 The keeper claims the ball

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

3

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CLAUDIO RANIERI COUNTER-ATTACKING AND TRANSITIONS The ball for the counter-attack can also be provided by the coach (if the cross is misplaced, for instance). This first phase is vital and we must see shots hitting the target, accuracy of passes and players attacking the key areas (namely near and far posts).

Phase two (5v5) 2

Phase two (5v5) After crossing the ball, if the defending five assume possession they will then counter-attack the existing five attacking players, looking to play to a finish at the other end (2). In other cases (for instance, when a goal is scored), a coach on the sidelines can decide to play the ball into the five players to counterattack, or give the blues another attack.

2 Yellows break quickly through the thirds

1 Now a counter-attack is started

Phase three (10v5) Phase three (10v5) Once the 5v5 has been started, we will attend to another development of this phase, as shown (3). Indeed, the first counter-attack attempt will end either with a goal or an interception. So in either of these two phases, five more players can now join the five already involved in defending to create a 10v5 counterattack. This phase will end with a shot on target or an interception by the (new) defending five.

3

1 Five blue defenders come in to support their team mates

2 Yellows must quickly regroup and retreat as they are being counter-attacked at pace

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

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CLAUDIO RANIERI COUNTER-ATTACKING AND TRANSITIONS

Phase four (10v10) 4

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

In the second progression attacking yellows come in to create a 10v10 attack against blues

Phase four (10v10) As a further progression, the game will be continued as a 10v10 in the same space used for the initial 5v5 due to the fact that the other five players will join the previous five who were defending (4). The intensity during this phase should be at a maximum; we’re looking for continuous counter-attacks and quick phases of play.

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

What are the key things to look out for? We must see a positive attitude to counter-attacking, with any break conducted with accuracy of passing at its core. Players must be smart in their decision-making when looking to work an advantage, and we also want to see a good tempo to the session, with the match being game-realistic and at usual competitive tempo. Game understanding is vital, so players must be aware of transitions between balance and cover, never

overcompensating on either. In addition, we want to see communication and organisation performed at the highest level, compactness when defending and the awareness of triggers in terms of when to press (such as a bad touch or poor weight of pass by an opponent). How would you put this into a game situation? This can easily build into a 10v10. When reaching this level we play for a specific time – 3-4mins, for instance – with 2mins rest in between.

5

“Game understanding is vital, so players must be aware of transitions between balance and cover, never overcompensating on either.”

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EDDIE HOWE Eddie Howe Breaking lines

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

1a

Overview: SET-UP AREA

Up to 36x20 yards EQUIPMENT

Balls, bibs, flat cones, goals, discs NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Up to 11v11 SESSION TIME

60mins

Getting players comfortable when both in and out of possession has been central to my coaching philosophy. I have seen players making huge strides in what they do when mastering the art of protecting or pursuing the ball, and good possession habits ultimately translate on the pitch into other skills, so I regard this session as a base onto which further development of players can be built.

RONDO

Outer players make long passes in order to split inrushing defenders, and successfully retain possession

1b

Difficulty: Advanced

What do I get the players to do? The functional midfielder Setting up as shown in the centre circle, the ball always starts with the coach, who feeds in, with the players on the outside looking to keep the ball away from those in the middle. They do this by using short passes to lure the defenders in, then penetrating between by playing long between the lines. These players on the outside of the circle are always moving ready to receive. If the team in possession reaches 25 passes, the possession pauses and a round of applause sounds for the achievement. Play then restarts quickly. What are the key things to look out for? When in possession players must keep the ball by using a good weight of pass and touch. They need to show awareness of what’s around them, adopting good body positions as they do so. Out of possession the reaction must be to press. Team mates need to work together in closing down both space and opponents. When one of the three defenders PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

In the progression, the threat of a fourth defender means outer players may need to make shorter passes in order to retain possession

wins back possession in the middle of the circle, it must be a clear win and not just a touch. That defender team must be in control of the ball, or he can kick out of the circle. Now players switch, so the drill will be restarted with the man who conceded possession ‘reaction pressing’, with the players on 6

his left and right side reacting to join him. How do I progress the practice? For the first progression we add an extra body in the middle (so four closers), with outside men restricted to one or two touches. When the ball breaks down the man who conceded possession

transitions quickly into the circle, with those on the left and the right joining him. The coach will call one of the three coming out of the drill to make the fourth. As a further progression we can add a floater to the middle for one-twos and bounce passes.

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EDDIE HOWE BREAKING LINES KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

2

1

2

3

4

5

The Five-Box Penetration exercise plots three attacking sides with two that are defending

FIVE-BOX PENETRATION

Difficulty: Advanced What do I get the players to do? In this challenge the objective is to develop quick combination play with a focus on passing forward through the lines. So setting up in a 36x20-yard area we mark out six 6x20yard zones. We work with two keepers and five teams of four. Three of the teams represent attackers in zones 1, 3 and 5, while two operate as defenders in zones 2 and 4. All players must stay in their zones. The game starts with the coach who plays to the keeper, who then feeds into zone 1. The objective is to play forward and through the lines, across the four zones to end with the

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

keeper at the opposite end. This is a continuous end-to-end timed practice. If the defending teams in either zones 2 or 4 block any through pass, the team of four conceding possession swaps zones. The defending team now becomes the attacking team. The attacking team can move the ball at speed across the four to work the opening to penetrate, and can penetrate ‘in one’ when receiving from the keeper if they can work the opening, or if the defending team are unbalanced. If the attacking team is slow, at the coach’s discretion he can switch them with a defending team. What are the key things to look out for? Defending teams need to work together in compact units as

7

well as being quick to shuffle across their respective zones. And when teams change from attack to defence or defence to attack, transitions must be quick so that an instant reaction (from both sides) can be seen. When in possession, it’s two-touch maximum per player. We want to see a real speed to the practice and good body shape. We also demand good awareness of the ball, of team mates and opponents, smart decision-making and a measured weight of pass. Out of possession we’re looking for good communication with team mates being a sensible distance apart. Players must also know to shuffle across the area.

“When out of possession the reaction must be to press. Team mates need to work together in closing down both space and opponents.”

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EDDIE HOWE BREAKING LINES

SMALL-SIDED GAMES

Difficulty: Difficult – advanced What do I get the players to do? In this challenge the objective is to penetrate lines to a 3v2 counterattack. Resting greens start with the ball and will play to any one of the yellows. Yellows can penetrate if one of the defending four is disorganised, or work a clever opening between their opponents. The defending four will have to work together to stop the penetrating pass – that means moving their feet and shuffling quickly to make sure distances and positioning are compact. When the blues are penetrated they have to make a recovery run which transforms the practice into a 6v3 in the defending team’s favour. When the pass is penetrated to the reds it creates a 3v2 situation. The reds attack quickly at pace avoiding back tackles from recovering back defenders. The attacking three look for overlaps and clever interplay around the box. If the defending team wins the ball back they have an ‘out pass’ in the form of the resting two defenders, and this ends the drill. We will keep players moving between challenges regularly, with defenders rotating positions with each other. Greens, yellows, blues and reds move up a zone - for example greens go to the yellow zone, yellows go to the blue zone and become defenders, while blues become the reds for the 3v2, with one man resting. Reds rotate to start and become greens. When in possession we want players to move the ball quickly to work the opening to penetrate. Body shape for passing forwards and receiving in pockets is crucial, as is good awareness and dribbling, overlaps, decision-making and the ability for players to capitalise on goalscoring opportunities. When out of possession we want players to shuffle, slide, block and make recovery runs. Defenders in a 3v2 must be slow coming away from goal, aiming to slow the attack for the recovering four. PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

3a

In the first small-sided game blacks and blues are defenders, with greens, yellows and reds in attacking mode

3b

The ball is initially played to one of the wider of the three, who comes inside. The central attacker overlaps around the outside and gets played in for a shot on goal 8

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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EDDIE HOWE BREAKING LINES KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

4

Reds (1-4-2-3-1) confront blues (1-4-3-3) in this 11v11 box-to-box game

PLAYING THROUGH THE THIRDS

in the zones - the attacking team become defenders. Offsides apply while keepers have four seconds to get the ball back into play if it comes back to them from a corner or throw-in.

The team in possession always starts the drill from the keeper, with a Difficulty: Advanced concentration on quick play, What do I get the players making the pitch big and to do? looking to score. The functional striker The team out of possession Setting up as shown this is an must work the line, press 11v11, working box-to-box, high and look to win the ball seven steps in from the touch high up the pitch. If the press line. Reds set up 1-4-2-3-1 is pierced, they must recover while blues are 1-4-3-3. their shape as quickly as The objective is to play possible. The other focus through the thirds, with should be on the block, players free to play in playing with compactness all zones with the only and getting ready with a restrictions being on touches. reaction press. So in zone 1 the restriction for If the defending team the team in possession is that wins back possession, the it is two touches. Zone 2 also roles reverse. The touch has a two-touch restriction restrictions stay the same whereas zone 3 is all in.

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

How do I progress the practice? To progress we can change touch restrictions in each zone. Furthermore, we can put balls around the outsides enabling quick throw-ins, and can look at adding a floater. Finally, we might condition the practice so the ball cannot be played back once the ball moves into the next zone.

9

“When teams change from attack to defence or defence to attack, transitions must be quick so that an instant reaction (from both sides) can be seen.”

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SEAN DYCHE Sean Dyche Turning to play forward SET-UP AREA

Up to 40x20 yards EQUIPMENT

1 The target man begins the practice

Balls, cones, goals

5 The move immediately restarts with an attack towards the other end

2 The ball is received and passed on

4 The other opposite target man receives the pass and a point is scored

1

NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Up to 7v7 SESSION TIME

90-second bursts for 4-6mins

Overview: This session aims to encourage turning to open the opportunity to play forward rather than sending the ball sideways or backwards. Within this , it allows players to put the ball ‘at risk’. We all know that keeping possession is very important, but it has to be productive, and coaching players to be brave in possession is very important. Turning under pressure then looking to play forward puts opponents on the back foot so encouraging players to put the ball at risk also helps them along the way to playing with freedom. This is a generic session that can be used to teach individual players or to enchance teams’ productivity, and from that, the team’s ability to penetrate the opposition. It can also be used for football fitness, if and when appropriate. What do I get the players to do? Possession groups The session starts simply and in small groups. Setting up as shown (1), each team in possession looks to play with the outside reds in order to switch the play by turning under pressure, while the aim of team mates is to lose their marker and rotate, then receive from the reds. We w ould start this all-in. Then, as players progress (up to firstteam level), we can adapt it to be three-touch. Each time a team plays from one end to the other, whilst incorporating a turn, a point is scored. We will rotate the three teams in 90-second bursts. PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

15

A third grey waits on the outside so we can quickly rotate teams at the end of each 90-second burst

20

3 Playing on the turn, this man opens up his body to receive the ball whilst protecting it from his blue marker

2

20

In the first progression, mini-goals are added at each end to provide a goalscoring incentive for players to play on the turn

40

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

10

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SEAN DYCHE TURNING TO PLAY FORWARD KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

3

30

15

20

15

In the second progression, we change the practice area to introduce definitive zones, which pressures players into responding and reacting to the challenges in tighter areas and with designated markers

How do I progress the session? To take the practice forward we can increase the size of the playing area and add a minigoal (or mini-goals) at each end, as shown on a 40x20-yard area (2). We can also look at changing player numbers or splitting the practice area into definitive areas, as shown (3). For instance, overloading the middle section - even in a 50x30-yard area - so it is tight, with players having to work hard to be technically bright in finding space, is always a useful step forward. We would PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

recommend leaving 3v2 in favour of the defender to allow the first pass into midfield, ensuring that the drill can start with quality. To further progress, one of the attacking players can move into the next zone, but only once a player has turned in the middle area. It should be noted, the sizes of the areas are adaptable to the standard of players. These drills are in ‘tight areas’ due to the quality of our players but if working with less technical or younger players we then adjust the size to suit accordingly. 11

What are the key things to look out for? Technically we are looking for players to check over their shoulders before receiving. We also want to see receiving on the back foot and a soft touch on the ball. Tactically it’s all about the importance of how turning affects opponents, and in those turns, opening up ‘the picture’. Typical mistakes include not checking over the shoulder, and from that, players finding themselves being dispossessed. We also want

to rule out poor technique, so concentration and application levels must be high, and players not willing to try ‘risk football’ should be picked up on the fact they are playing too safe. How do I put this into a game situation? By removing the flat discs and sections of the pitch we can turn this into a generic smallsided game, but with the ruling that it’s only one-touch to play sideways and backwards, but four touches if a player turns to play forward.

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SAM ALLARDYCE Sam Allardyce Diagonal Passing Overview: This session is about changing the direction of play, including in counterattacking, in order to create space, and to spread the opposition’s shape. It’s based on the idea of a decisive diagonal pass and the subsequent movement to receive and support. Starting in defence, the principles are then used in gaining space and advantage in attacking overload situations, thus looking to create an end product, be that a cross, pass or a finish. It’s important to practise this from both offensive and defensive perspectives. A team might be pressing with little space to receive, so to turn them puts us on the front foot. Similarly, defending deep and being well organised means there should be little space for opposition attackers to thread through two banks of defenders.

“Good interlink play will always force the opposition to come out and lose their shape.”

DIAGONAL PASSING SET-UP AREA

Full pitch EQUIPMENT

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

1

Balls, cones, goals NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Up to 22 SESSION TIME

3x15mins per practice, with rotations and reviews

What do I get the players to do? Moving out of defence Setting up as shown, we work players through the key components of the practice, ensuring that the movement out of defence is characterised by precise, quick and decisive diagonal passing. It begins with fullback movement in order to receive from the keeper. The left-back then plays into midfield. Centremidfielders receive and interlink, then set the ball back to one of the centre-backs, who has space and time on the ball. The centre-back now has a choice – he can either play diagonally into space on the wings, or directly upfield to the centreforward who has made room for himself (1). We would begin this practice unopposed, before bringing in opposition players (2).

The ball out of defence is worked into midfield, then fed back to a centre-back, who plays over the top and into space

2

When players are comfortable with the key principles, we’ll bring in opposition players

3

What are the key things to look out for? Good interlink play will always force opponents to move

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

On this occasion, a second defensive diagonal pass is played, with the centre-back laying the ball to the left for the full-back to take it in his stride 12

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SAM ALLARDYCE DIAGONAL PASSING forward and lose their shape, and that’s a key aim in these practices. We also want to see support runs from all other players in making themselves available (3), a good choice of passes, and pass appreciation. And it’s key that players frequently adjust their positions, staying on the front foot in order to maximise potential attacking opportunities. Attacking aims The next part of the practice examines play in the final third, with players switching play to create space and overloads. They do this by interlinking, passing quickly (4), and forcing the defending team to stay narrow for as long as possible. Again, we would begin this unopposed, before bringing in opposition players. What are the key things to look out for? We want to see smart movement to receive and quick movement to support, with the intention of creating overloads wherever possible. And of course, it’s vital there’s a positive end product, be that a pass, a shot or a cross (5), with offensive players making determined runs into the box to cover vital crossing areas (6).

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

4

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

Moving into the attacking phase provides options for the midfielders, who keep play centralised and tight before looking for a valuable switching option, be that left (to, in this case an overlapping player) or right (in this case to a stationary player)

5

Here, the right full-back has advanced forward and sends over a cross, with offensive players making positive runs into predetermined danger areas

6

When run as an opposed practice, a diagonal pass finds the space behind a disciplined defence which has held it’s position

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TONY PULIS Tony Pulis Scoring from crosses Overview: This session is about scoring from crosses. Balls in from wingers contribute to more goal chances than anything else in the game, so ensuring that attackers make the correct runs is crucial at any level. Much of that approach play is to do with strikers adopting a clever body shape, and ensuring the angle of their run is such that they give themselves the best chance of making good contact. We see the lessons learned from this session being played out in every match. For that reason we’re quite strict in applying its principles, because we count any ball across the face of goal as an opportunity that can and often should be converted, and expect our attacking players to adopt a similar mindset.

“Although a simple set-up, the complexity here is in the attackers’ body shape and angle of run.”

SCORING FROM CROSSES: MAIN SESSION SET-UP AREA

Final third

1a

EQUIPMENT

Balls, cones, goal NUMBER OF PLAYERS

6 SESSION TIME

Practice 30mins, development 25mins

What do I get the players to do? Two forwards stand on the edge of the penalty area, flanked by two wingers on either side. There is a goal and goalkeeper. Standing just outside the D, the coach serves the ball to one of the forwards, which is returned one-touch. Both players now make angled runs into the six-yard box. At the same time, the wingers combine to send a cross into the danger area and the attackers look to score.

What are the key things to look for technically/ tactically? Although a simple setup, the complexity here is in each attacker’s body shape and angle of run. For the forward to score when running in a rigid straight line to the middle of the goal, the ball has to be perfectly delivered to feet, something that cannot be guaranteed. Realistically, the shot will end up in the slip catching area on the other side of the goal. Therefore, we encourage players to angle their run and shoulders towards where the ball is being

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

The coach serves a ball to one of the strikers and receives it back

While the coach is serving to the striker, wingers play a pass and set-back for a cross

1b

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

Angled runs and attention to body shape enable a goal to be scored

2 A square run means the ball will be dragged into the ‘slips’, while approaching at an angle enables better contact. Body shape is paramount – shoulders should be facing the ball not the goal KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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TONY PULIS SCORING FROM CROSSES: MAIN SESSION delivered from. This makes it technically easier to make good contact with the ball.

3a

How do I progress the session?

How would I put this into a game situation? For a small-sided game, we create a 50x40-yard area with two 10-yard channels on either side, each containing two wingers. There is a 10-yard middle zone containing two midfielders from each team, with three defenders and two attackers in the zone in front of each goal. This game is 8v8 with four neutral wingers. The one touch midfielders can progress out of their zone but attackers and defenders, who can have multiple touches, are fixed. The ball should be fed out to a winger at the earliest opportunity – wingers have two touches to send it into the box. When the ball comes in, midfielders and the winger on the opposite side can move towards goal.

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

L L L AL N AL N AL N I I I

We will have additional attacking pairs ready to go for each new phase and will experiment with a variety of crosses from both sides. We might introduce a defender, but often find it’s better for the attackers to practise the skill unopposed before taking that into a small-sided game.

H UC O 2 T CH OU 2T H UC O 2T

H UC O 2 T CH OU T 2 CH U O 2T

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

In the small-sided game, quick interplay sees the ball fed to the wing

3b

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

The winger takes two touches as attacking players move in...

3c

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

...but it’s the winger on the opposite side who comes in two score with a first-time shot 15

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AITOR KARANKA Aitor Karanka Offensive transition

1a

SET-UP AREA

Use of a half pitch EQUIPMENT

Balls, cones, goals NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Up to 10v8 plus keeper SESSION TIME

2 A pass goes out wide then forward to the striker

Movement to use the striker 10mins, Possession with transition 4x2mins, 10v8 2x10mins

Overview: This session is about offensive transitions and looks at creating opportunities to score using the disorganisation of our opponents. The intention is always to get to the target as quickly as possible. Within this session I will attempt to present options whereby players are able to create space and break through opponents. The running of this session depends to some extent on the upcoming opponents, but as much as that, on the need for us to improve and intensify our own level of understanding where transitions are concerned.

3 He lays it back and it is worked out to the opposite side

1 The server begins the practice 1 A cross comes in from the right and a goalscoring situation develops

1b

What do I get the players to do?

Passing movement to use the striker as a reference

As shown (1a), the striker sets to one of his midfielders, who then passes to another forwardmoving midfielder. Now a pass goes out to the winger. A cross then comes in and all involved players must be moving into that key space in the box with the intention of finishing (1b). If the attacking group misses the goal, they must react immediately, as quickly as they can pressing the mannequins.

1 All players make positive attacking moves

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

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AITOR KARANKA OFFENSIVE TRANSITION

Possession of the ball with a transition

We now have possession of the ball in the box as a 6v3 (2a/2b), with the use of three supporting players (defenders), who are all one-touch. Attackers start with the ball, but as soon as it’s turned over players must head to the other box with the aim of getting the ball to the target man (striker) at the top.

2a

2b

Grey defenders work with red team in retaining possession

The ball is moved into the top half and whites successfully overturn possession

“Unless quick attacking momentum is maintained, the attack will die out quickly as opposition players seize the opportunity to regroup and reorganise.” PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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AITOR KARANKA OFFENSIVE TRANSITION

10v8

We now set up as a 10v8, as shown (3a), attackers versus defenders. Defenders are waiting for the transition, and when this comes, they have just five seconds to finish the play. The attacking team recovers (3b) and tries to protect the goal using a back four and one midfielder. When finished, we will start again with a ball played out by the coach using, if necessary, target whites stationed in the wing areas who are passive, but assist in restarting play quickly. What are the key things to look out for? We want attacking players to arrive forward positively and as quickly as possible. The emphasis is on quality forward passes, and when regaining possession it’s about looking forward to exploit other teams’ disorganisation. In terms of typical mistakes, these include not playing forward quickly enough and team mates not encouraging others to make those forward passes. Unless this quick attacking momentum is maintained – for instance, with a pass into space – then the attack will die out quickly as opposition players seize the opportunity to regroup and reorganise. The main point of the exercise is for the team who lose the ball to make a defensive transition to recover possession quickly, and the other team make an offensive transition and attack towards the goal.

3a

Red attackers begin the practice by moving the ball out from the keeper

3b

The team of eight white defenders successfully nullify the threat and a pass to the passive whites on the wing enables the target man to restart PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

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KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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CARLO ANCELOTTI Carlo Ancelotti Attacking movement in a 4-3-2-1 formation

ATTACKING MOVEMENT IN A 4-3-2-1 FORMATION

1

Formation philosophy At AC Milan, Chelsea and now at PSG I have frequently used a 4-3-2-1 formation

CECH ALEX/LUGANO

Overview: This session is based on tactical work, movement and patterns of play in the middle and attacking thirds of the field. It uses a 4-3-2-1 formation, and a system that has always offered me great success at Milan, Chelsea and PSG. Of course, no system is perfect – each having its own distinct strengths and weaknesses – but this one links well with our playing style and philosophy. This formation is particularly effective when constructing box-to-box passing moves - counterattacking play that involves passing and receiving between the lines, well-timed movements and crossover runs, and the exploitation of space behind the opposition’s back line. The session develops in the following order: game – technical/ movement – phase of play – game.

SIRIGU

JALLET/BISEVAL IVANOVIC/BOSINGWA

CARVALHO/ALEX SAKHO

SISSOKO ESSIEN/BALLACK

TERRY THIAGO MOTTA/BODMAR MIKEL/DECO

NENE

MAXWELL

J COLE/KALOU

A COLE PASTORE LAMPARD

2

HOARU/GAMEIRO

MENEZ

DROGBA/TORRES

MALOUDA/ANELKA

The central defenders split and look to receive the ball from the keeper

4-3-2-1 working for each other

The central midfield player controls the rhythm of play and looks to pass forward whenever possible

The full-back on the side of the ball pushes into an advanced position ‘In to out’ diagonal run

The advanced midfield player looks to make a diagonal run (in to out) behind the opposition full-back in an attempt to ‘open’ their back four. He can also rotate with lateral midfielder

The central striker looks to penetrate the defensive line with intelligent well-timed movements

SISSOKO

MENEZ

NENE

GAMERO

In our match against Evian on February 4, 2012, this direct passing move from box to box saw the team playing between the lines to maximum effect. The ball worked through to the overlapping Jérémy Menez, whose closing shot hit the post.

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble Optional pass/ run

PROFESSIONAL 4 APRIL 2012 ATTACKING TACTICS

Passing move from box to box

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CARLO ANCELOTTI ATTACKING MOVEMENT IN A 4-3-2-1 FORMATION What do I get the players to do?

SET-UP AREA

This session is split up into a number of progressive set-ups, each rehearsing different positional and tactical elements contained within the 4-3-2-1 formation.

Up to half-pitch EQUIPMENT

Balls, cones, goals NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Full squad SESSION TIME

Warm-up – physical trainer 15mins, 10v10 game (two small goals) 15mins, Pattern of play 20mins, Phase of play 20mins, or Possession practice 10v10 20mins, Total 90mins

What are the key things to look out for? Players must concentrate on the technical and positional elements

on this session if they are to make maximum use of it. They should build progressively on each element, taking through ideas and principles from each separate part of the practice. It takes time for players to learn the fundamental parts of playing this formation, but the rewards are impressive, and all built around possession with a positive end result.

We are very fortunate at PSG to have excellent training facilities. We use two pitches every day that run parallel to each other. This allows us to set up all the exercises before the start time and then to move quickly from one to another during that session, maximising time and intensity. It’s a good way to keep the players focused.

55

45

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

10v10 game with two small goals

“This formation is particularly effective when constructing boxto-box passing moves.” PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

We begin with a possession exercise in formation, using two target goals placed at either end of a 45x55-yard area. Players work as they would do in any normal game, but they must retain a strict formation throughout. In this game, possession is used to generate goalscoring opportunities through intelligent passing and movement, plus positional play. We like to use possession exercises that are directional and have a clear aim. There are no offsides in this game, which is played for 15 minutes – we will practise five minutes using free passing, five minutes two-touch, then the final five minutes as one-touch. 20

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CARLO ANCELOTTI ATTACKING MOVEMENT IN A 4-3-2-1 FORMATION The striker pulls away first, then makes a blindside diagonal run to receive a pass from the right midfielder, before shooting at goal

Blind side run

Patterns of play – technical The next set of exercises feature one striker, two advanced midfielders and one central midfielder, on a half-pitch. Their start positions are as shown in the diagram. Movement patterns are developed gradually, as outlined below.

Crossover

The striker pulls off the shoulder and heads for the box

The right midfielder creates space by running long to come short. He receives the pass from the central midfielder, then lays the ball long

Over

The left midfielder makes a diagonal run

The striker positions himself for a pass into feet, and prepares to shoot at goal

Third man run

The right midfielder now has a choice of options

The left midfielder makes a well-timed forward, blindside run in order to receive a pass from the right midfielder

As before, but the striker this time looks to come and receive a ball to feet. At that last moment he allows the ball to run past him, and the left midfielder moves to receive

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble Optional pass/ run

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

Here, two midfielders and the striker combine to produce a triangle passing combination

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CARLO ANCELOTTI ATTACKING MOVEMENT IN A 4-3-2-1 FORMATION Phase of Play Practice (10v9 plus a keeper)

Attackers must ensure they maintain balance when attacking in order to prevent counter-attacks

Players on the attacking team of 10 look to score in the goal, while defenders must penetrate the dotted line, but only by passing to a team mate who receives the ball when already beyond that line.

Blues, with a oneman advantage, build from the back

Looking initially to construct an overload in midfield, attackers then combine with team mates using the movements in the ‘Patterns of play – technical’ exercise.

Possession Practice - 10v10 in 60x55-yard area Teams line up 4-3-2-1 against 4-3-3. The aim of the practice is for teams to build play with the clear aim of penetrating the end line with a pass to an onrushing team mate. The final pass cannot be made until the ball has gone over the halfway line (this prevents a ‘long ball’ mentality), and offsides are in play from the end lines.

60

55

10 v10 game We conclude with game – 10v10 plus keepers. Offsides apply as normal. In a tight playing area, all aspects from the previous practices should be applied to this game situation.

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

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SIR ALEX FERGUSON Sir Alex Ferguson Attacking wing play and shooting Overview: This session is about attacking from three different positions and is something that offers versatility in the final third, which is always essential. We begin with shooting from outside the box, setting up opportunities for powerful accurate shots into the net. Moving on, we look at quick, instinctive interplay on the wing, finishing with a cross into the danger area. Plus we examine the roles of attacking first and second waves of crosses. It’s essential to practise these in order to fine-tune the movement of strikers, quality of delivery,andinventive combinations on the wing. This is a powerful and insightful session that encourages players to practise hard, perfect their roles and reinforce habits.

ATTACKING WING PLAY AND SHOOTING: MAIN SESSION SETUP AREA

Half pitch EQUIPMENT

Cones, balls NUMBER OF PLAYERS

7 upwards to 20 (one goalkeeper, varying combinations of outfield players)

1

What do I get the players to do? Use one defender, one attacker, two midfielders and two wide players. This is a two-ball routine. Positioned outside the D of the penalty box, the midfielder links with the striker and has a shot. With the second ball, the other midfielder switches the play out wide. The two wide players combine and put a cross in for the inrushing forward and attacking midfielder. The defender tries to clear the ball. The crosser must be aware of the defender’s position. As a coach you can make the defender defend either the near post or back post cross.

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

Attacker and midfielder combine to set up a shot from distance.

2 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

Play immediately builds on the wing. Inrushing players move toward near and far post areas.

3 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

The winger selects his target man and invites the attacker to finish.

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SIR ALEX FERGUSON ATTACKING WING PLAY AND SHOOTING: PROGRESSION How do I progress the session? Progress this session to a three-ball routine with a complete back four plus a defensive midfielder to defend. Add wingers on the other side on the pitch and an extra attacker and midfielder. The midfield players now work in pairs. Together with the striker, they try to outplay an opponent in order to get a shot on goal. The attacker who previously laid the pass off can now spin away from his marker and shoot. Strikers should run in anticipating rebounds. In the next phase, the full-back must try to stop the wide men from crossing. The wide men must try to outplay the full-back in a 3v1 situation. When this ball goes dead, the opposite wide men put another cross in for the attackers and defenders to react to. Defenders and strikers must always readjust their positions to deal with the next ball arriving. The aim is to make the routine more competitive and, at the same time, demand more creativity and unpredictability in forward play.

What are the key things to look out for technically/ tactically? We are looking for accuracy of passing and finishing, plus a variety of crosses. PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

1 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

The three-ball routine starts through the middle.

2 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

More players means complex wing patterns.

3 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

The overlapping striker meets a third phase of attack coming in from the right.

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SIR ALEX FERGUSON ATTACKING WING PLAY AND SHOOTING: PROGRESSION On the wings, rhythm and flow of passing is essential, and players must protect against mistimed runs or erratic passes. The strikers in the middle must be mobile and versatile – they must run to the near post and far post, whilst still being prepared to receive passes in and around the penalty spot or further back.

How would you put this into a game situation? Work this into a 10v10 game (including goalkeepers) across a half-pitch, marking out two wing channels. Only one defender can enter the wide zone to defend the cross. This encourages 2v1 situations on the wing and ensures many crosses into the penalty area. The approach should be varied, sometimes attacking down the wing to fire a cross into the six-yard box, on other occasions cutting back inside to set-up a long-range shooting chance. If a ball from the wing is delivered into the box, players must finish using one touch. Award two goals for crosses that finish with a header or a volley. If the defending team wins possession, they break upfield. This game would usually last 45 minutes. The training session in total takes 75 minutes.

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

1 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

In the game situation, only one defender can go out to close down a winger in the channel.

2 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

The winger cuts back inside to set up a longrange shooting chance.

3 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

When making use of the wing, ensure he finishes with an accurate ball into the six-yard box.

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ANDRE VILLAS-BOAS Andre Villas-Boas Working on the counter-attack What do I get the players to do? 3v2 counter-attack exercise Setting up as shown (1a), blues attack 3v2 using one player on each side of the goal and a third positioned to the side. As soon as the red team concedes a goal or clears the ball, a third red player comes in with another ball on a counter-attack and it’s 3v2 in the other direction (1b). The two blue players closest to the ball – those who started on each side of the goal – react, doing their best to prevent the attack; the third supporting blue leaves the area. We will also condition it so that the player who begins each counter-attack cannot be the man who scores. At the end of each attack, the groups stay in the opposite side from where they started, ideally switching positions within their own set-up (for instance, the leftsided player moves to the right, and vice versa). Offsides can be applied or ignored depending on the choice and preferences of the coach. What are the key things to look out for? When in possession, we want players to use superiority in terms of numbers in order to create goalscoring chances. This includes attacking explosively and making smart counter-attacking decisions. Without the ball, defenders need to close space towards the centre. Quick reactions on a transition are imperative and zonal behaviour is something we will also encourage, so players situated closest to the ball will always be the ones to press. Possession v counter-attack exercise This is an 8v8 at its core that uses, in total, 20 outfield players plus two keepers, as shown (2a). It begins with the blue team trying to keep possession for as long as possible (without scoring). Reds press in order to win back possession and PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

Overview: This is a progressive, counter-attacking session, run in such a way that the players can understand it right the way from a basic point of view (3v2) through to a more complex game-type situation. The way it is performed will obviously depend on the strategy that we choose to outline for a specific game, and its use will usually be against opponents who we know have difficulty dealing with counter-attacks, as you would expect. In terms of time (not to mention the number of repetitions) we leave this up to the coach to decide, bearing in mind the day of the week. The closer to the day of the game the fewer repetitions and shorter the practice will be. Each of the three practices in this session lasts for 2x8mins with 2mins recovery in between.

SET-UP AREA

Use of a full pitch EQUIPMENT

Balls, cones, goals NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Up to 11v11 SESSION TIME

2x8mins with 2mins recovery in between, per practice

3v2 counter-attack exercise 1a

1 Blues begin with a 3v2 attack 2 The wide supporting player moves in 3 The player who starts cannot be the man who shoots

16.5 4 A pass is laid into the supporting striker

8

16.5 5 A goal is scored

1b 7 Blues organise quickly in defensive mode

6 Now an

16.5 immediate counter-attack

8 Reds make positive attacking runs to maximise the impact of the counter

8

begins against the two blues (minus the wide supporting player)

16.5 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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ANDRE VILLAS-BOAS WORKING ON THE COUNTER-ATTACK then break on the counter-attack towards their opponents’ goal, with blues looking to prevent this transition and the next phase. The four green neutral players work with the team in possession - so blues at first then reds on turnover of possession (2b). So, for instance, when reds win the ball, neutral greens on the outside give depth to the blue defensive set-up. In addition, the neutral yellow at the far end becomes the first defender (the centre-back) for the blues. The team that counter-attacks starts the next phase in possession, while we can add in a touch limit again this is dictated by the coach depending upon the players’ ability with the ball. We play this for 4x4mins with one minute recovery in between then switch so that neutrals play with the reds. What are the key things to look out for? When in possession, we’re looking for a high quality of counterattacking play, ensuring that the first pass should beat the first line of pressing. We also want to see a high speed of executing the counterattack, plus good final delivery and assists. When out of possession, players must press and close down space, while ensuring they cover. We want to see a strong reaction to losing the ball and lots of tracking of runs into spaces. How do I put this into a game situation? We now set up as shown on a 70x60yard area (3a). The team that we want to see working on possession – in the example shown it’s the blue team – is given the ball inside their own half and try to find spaces to break through their opponents – the red team – and score. Reds cannot press blues in their own half. When reds win possession they break in quick counter-attacks with the intention of exploiting any spaces in behind (3b). At first we would set this up so that on each counter-attack there are PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

Possession v counter-attack exercise 2a

50

1 In this 8v8 game blues begin with the ball

40

35 65 2 It’s passed around the key central area with the intention solely of retaining possession

2b

50 40

3 Reds turn over possession in the middle

35 65

4 Green neutrals play with the team in possession and the ball is fed here to the wide player

5 Reds attack with purpose KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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ANDRE VILLAS-BOAS WORKING ON THE COUNTER-ATTACK four assigned players from each side, but this can be progressed so that everyone is included. What are the key things to look out for? When with the ball, we’re looking for teams to ensure a high quality of pass and decision-ma king. We want to see mobility in creating space and good balance of the team when in possession. During counter-attacks, the first pass must beat the first line of press, or the break has failed. Past that, we want to see good exploitation of attacking spaces in behind, and each move performed at high speed. Finally, when the counter-attack is ‘on’, players have to ensure they do not lose the ball in an advantageous situation - perhaps even provoking a return counterattack - and that comes down to good pass selection, occupying different counter-attacking spaces in the process. When without the ball, we’re looking for compact closing down of space, good pressing, strong, positive reactions to the ball being lost and the tracking of movements in behind. We’re also on the lookout for dominance in 1v1 situations in the crucial wide areas. How do I progress the practice? The obvious and most effective progression to this practice comes about by increasing difficulty and, in its simplest form, that means adding to the number of opponents, or restricting time and space. We can also apply additional player conditions – for instance, as highlighted in the first practice, the player who began the counterattack could not score.

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

Game situation 3a

60 1 Blues begin with possession 2 Reds cannot press blues in their opponents’ half

70

3 Supporting blues must look to find space in order to receive a pass in what is a congested area

3b

60 6 A quick counter-attack is launched

7 Wide players make positive breaks into key areas on the flanks and spaces in behind

5 The first main pass should always beat the line of the press

70

4 Reds successfully turn over possession

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GORDON STRACHAN Gordon Strachan Attacking using direct central passing Overview: This session looks at improving the speed of passing moves in attacking situations. It is a reaction to the modern trends of compact defending and cautious forward play, and uses fast counterattacking as a key weapon, with the premise of sending the ball through the central area of the pitch in seeking the quickest and most direct route to goal. The session – which takes the form of a pitch template – uses designated ‘no go’ areas, and relies on players being quick, precise and positive. The expectation is for coaches apply all of their usual in-play observations onto this template.

ATTACKING USING DIRECT PASSING

On a full-sized pitch, the game is 11v11, with hatching representing areas in which the ball cannot enter, although players can still run through these spaces.

SET-UP AREA

Full pitch EQUIPMENT

Balls, cones, goals NUMBER OF PLAYERS

11v11 SESSION TIME

40mins

“This session is a reaction to the modern trends of compact defending and cautious forward play, and uses fast counterattacking as a key weapon.” PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

What do I get the players to do? The premise is to create a playing area that forces players to think and behave in a certain way. This is a standard 11v11 game but we add a semicircle on each side of the halfway line so that play is channelled through the middle. Each extendable semi-circle creates a no-go zone that the ball cannot be played into, across or over. Players may still move in that area but cannot receive the ball in it. Any team that, whilst in possession, takes the ball into the ‘no go’ zone, relinquishes possession, with play restarting with the opposition keeper. The game itself must be coached like any 29

other 11v11 – we are inviting coaches to use the template but to still apply all of their usual in-play observations and instructions. Those requests could be in the context of passing, dribbling, movement, one-twos, overloads, blind side runs etc. But whatever the technical and tactical aims are, the limitations of the pitch must be adhered to. We can adjust the width of the no-go zones as the 11v11 match progresses. The bigger they are, the more intense the requirement is for players to construct tight passing moves through the middle, because the margin for error is greater.

What are the key things to look out for? Although this is only a template onto which other coaching principles should be applied, there will always be the need for speed and accuracy. We also want to see players considering body angle – in particular, receiving on the half-turn – so as to encourage rapid forward play. It’s important to consider too that while the ball cannot go into the no-go zones, players can still run through those areas in making forward and defensive runs. This can be particularly helpful when looking to create space for team mates in the tight central area. www.elitesoccercoaching.net

MICHAEL O’NEILL Michael O’Neill Positive pockets

SET-UP AREA

Use of a full pitch EQUIPMENT

Balls, cones, goals, mannequins, minigoals NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Up to 22 SESSION TIME

75mins each

What do I get the players to do? Warm-up (not shown) (15mins) One of our coaches will run a conventional warm-up to get players ready both physically and mentally. Stage 1 (12mins, 90secs x 4, two groups) Setting up as shown (1), this is 4v4 in the box. After two passes players can then transfer to the grey player in the centre, then go to support the ball in the opposite box. If successful, the team maintains possession; if not the other team keeps the ball and then takes up the task themselves.

Overview: The session is about playing into positive pockets behind the opposition midfield upon regain of possession. For a team such as ours, where the sum is greater than our parts, each session is specifically opponent-focused and normally involves playing to our attacking strengths and opponents’ defensive weaknesses. For instance, we worked on positive pockets in preparation for our match against Faroe Islands who we believed to be

1 Greens bring the ball out

1 3 Here, the man in the pocket occupies a space in between opponents, and he will always try to move the ball on into a key area within one or two passes

midfield, and finding those players - notably Oliver Norwood and Steven Davis within one or two passes. This session moves from training in isolation through the coached phase, to ending with the players finding the moment in the game. We would run this session four days before the game and the workload broadly comes in at 5,500-6,500 metres, with 30-50 accelerations/ decelerations. Any nearer the game and there would be a danger of fatigue.

18 2 Short, measured passes are made

18

4 Grey receives and holds up play waiting for players to transfer into the bottom area

2

What are the key things to look out for? Players for the team in possession are encouraged to find ‘the pocket’ in between opponents before transferring - they need to volunteer to move into tight possession areas. Grey players must work off the angles to facilitate movement of the ball from one end of the area to the other. Pass restrictions can be removed as players become more adept, but rarely can the transfer be rapid as the team with possession needs time to move across into the empty space.

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

a misunderstood opponent. Analysis led us to realise that possession equalling success versus the Faroes was a myth. Instead, we found that they lost 80% of their goals from moves of a possession phase of fewer than five passes. Long periods of possession therefore reduced our chances of scoring, while positive pockets encouraged accelerated, dynamic attacks. So upon turnover we needed to have a trained process of getting players quickly into positive pockets behind the

5 This supporting green is the first player to move

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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MICHAEL O’NEILL POSITIVE POCKETS Stage 2 (18mins, two groups with rotation) Setting up as shown (2), the ball starts with the defensive midfielder, who chooses the full-back with an initial deep pass. The ball is then played into the pocket - where mannequins represent opponents - for the attacking central midfielder. When he receives and turns this is the trigger for a team mate to break the line from wide. This is in keeping with getting the ball there in two passes. When the winger has broken the line and received, it’s the cue for our three key attacking players to ‘hit the box’. While the pocket player’s instruction is simple - he must make a positive, attacking pass in one or two touches - we still want to explore ways of developing the role of the wide player. We can do this either by encouraging him inside (for a direct run on goal) or recommending he goes outside the full-back. In an instance where the midfielder is ‘low’ and cannot make it into the pocket, we would expect the wide player to drift in to occupy that space. Stage 3 (15mins) Setting up as shown we organise with eight attackers and three defenders (3). The ball starts with the defensive midfielder who chooses the full-back with an initial deep pass. The game is then played within the lines of the box with players encouraged to come into the pocket (with the mannequins acting as outside midfielders in a four) and make runs ‘from out to in’ leaving the gap for the full-back. Players can only ‘activate’ an attack when they receive the ball within the lines of the mannequins. If an attacking midfielder finds this pocket then the wide player keeps his width; if the wide player finds the pocket, the full-back is responsible for the width. The aim here is to try to move the opposition full-backs into the pocket, leaving their centre-backs engaged with our striker. If a full-back is engaged the defensive unit becomes so narrow that the wide player can break lines centrally, or the full-back can be in a high position to cross.

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

The defensive midfielder passes right to his full-back

2

A pass is played into the pocket The pocket is represented by the space in the middle of the mannequins

The pocket player receives on the half turn and, within one or two touches, passes to his overlapping winger

3

The defensive midfielder feeds a pass out wide

Players progress from the midfield area and attack the goal

The two static mannequins and two moving midfielders create the pocket that one opposing green needs to penetrate The full-back will now pass the ball diagonally into the midfield area, then edges forward, but must remain in his wide channel at all times If in a different attack this wide player is the man to find the pocket, we want to see the fullback progressing further up the wing than he usually would given that he is now responsible for adding width

If this attacking midfielder finds the pocket the wide players, left and right of him, retain their width

Opposition fullbacks are drawn into the pocket Opposition fullbacks are drawn into the pocket

Centre-backs become isolated against our incoming attacking players

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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MICHAEL O’NEILL POSITIVE POCKETS Stage 4 (15mins) Setting up as shown with a 9v8 and opposition midfielders replacing the mannequins (4), the first attack allows the pocket to activate the route forward. Except now the second ball represents a situation in a live game whereby whites, upon regains, look for the mini-goals, giving the game shape and inviting a competition element. This allows space to find pockets. The match element invites players to find pockets in different areas as well as well as allowing the space for more to develop naturally. The ball must go into the positive pocket within three passes of possession being regained (which means the player must be ready in the pocket within two). When in there it’s likely, at first, players will choose to feed the wide player, but as a game progresses they will grow more comfortable in the role and will discover central situations where the pocket is most open. What are the key things to look out for? Where technical play is concerned we want to see receiving on the back foot and on the half-turn, and players checking over their shoulders as the ball comes in to them. Hips should be facing towards the goals and the intention should always be to pass up the pitch. Finally, players should not stop the ball – they should

4 The initial pass will go out left or right

Full-backs must be ready to advance up the wing

Defenders hold back, alert to the threat of a counterattack should the pocket fail A wide player not in a pocket must be ready to make an attacking run into the box

The wide player can easily drift across into his own pocket

The green player finds the pocket between two banks of whites

always be on the move with it. For tactical observations players must never make square passes on a turnover as these allow the opposition to get back and cement defensive shape,and must be clear as to whether they should get to the pocket or play into the pocket. The man in the pocket should never play backwards, and we want to see attacks finished in five passes.

We want to encourage players to be positive, not just in retaining the ball but in feeling able to take the risk of losing it with shots, crosses and dribbles. In some matches the mistake is actually in not taking the risk though this may vary depending on the opposition, scoreline or game plan.

“Players must never make square passes on a turnover as these allow the opposition to get back and cement defensive shape.”

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

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GUUS HIDDINK & Steve Holland Guus Hiddink & Steve Holland

Reactions in the box Overview: This session is about improving penalty box anticipation and reactions, for both defensive and offensive players. Obviously this is

crucially important because every game is decided by penalty box behaviour. We will run this practice once per week – subject to periodisation of training – based on game-load. And it would be best to set this up the day before a game given that it combines low level physical demands with a requirement for high mental alertness.

Overall it’s a simple session and the premise is very much on the coaches to let natural game play develop, because really anything can happen in the course of players using the space. But what is certain is players will find it enjoyable, and it will put them in the right mindset for the challenges that follow on match day.

SET-UP AREA

Use of half-pitch EQUIPMENT

Balls, cones, goals NUMBER OF PLAYERS

21 SESSION TIME

15mins

1

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

The game sees 7v7v7 with three goals placed around the penalty box

What do I get the players to do? We set up as shown (1), using three goals positioned around a penalty box. It’s three teams of seven – six and a keeper in each – with the instruction of defending your own allocated goal whilst looking to score in either of the other two. The nature of this set-up means players will have to be alert to many different threats and opportunities going on around them. We will also point out ‘anticipation areas’ – for instance back-post positions and the centre of the penalty area, where key match events will develop. We run this for three periods PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

of 5mins, each time changing the goal to be defended so that, after three phases, each team has rotated around the area and we reach an accumulated score. What are the key things to look out for? We are looking for players to display excellent reactions based on their positions. For offensive players this must involve being courageous and able to work quick technical adjustment to opportunities, preferably one-touch. For defensive players, we want to see solid defensive blocks and protection of the keeper. Poor or slow mental reactions

are ultimately what will cost teams goals, or prevent them from taking the chances that come their way, while being able to execute technical tasks under pressure is also a must if players are to fulfil the potential that this multiangled practice offers. How do I progress the session? A simple progression is to transfer the practice into small directional games in penalty box-sized areas, with players taking forward the idea of threats and opportunities being present all around them.

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“For offensive players... being courageous and able to work quick technical adjustment to opportunities. For defensive players, we want to see solid defensive blocks and protection of the keeper.”

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NEIL WARNOCK Neil Warnock Overview:

Full pitch EQUIPMENT

1a

Ball, goals NUMBER OF PLAYERS

22 SESSION TIME

20-30mins

What do I get the players to do?

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

1b

After regrouping, whites begin to push out to stop blues from playing through

n tio e ta in on L fr

In a two-way 11v11 game, blues begin as the attacking team, with whites the counter-attackers. When blues play out from the back, whites’ first instinct must be to press opponents and attempt to win the ball. If, however, an opponent is too far away so that a white is unable to directly and quickly affect his decision-making, then all whites must retreat back towards the confrontation line (1a), which is to be indicated by the coach. Retreating to the confrontation line will encourage blues to advance. When play approaches the line, the defending team must move in to win the ball (1b). If they can do that, the compact nature of their frontline now makes it possible for quick counter-attacks to be made behind the blues’ defence, either with a direct pass (1c) or varied passing combinations (1d). The roles and responsibilities of all 11 whites are therefore very important when the team is out of possession, and good

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

1c

After regrouping, whites attempt to stop blues from playing through

n io at ne nt Li ro nf Co

“The confrontation line virtual line gives players a unique positioning point to defend up to.”

AREA

n Co

This session is about counter-attacking in a 4-3-3 formation, with the use of a ‘confrontation line’. This virtual line gives players a unique positioning point to defend up to before releasing a counterattack. The line moves depending on the opposition and how quickly they progress with the ball, but is always around the halfway line. The practice enables attack-minded players to learn their responsibilities when both in and out of possession.

SET-UP

n io at ne nt Li ro nf Co

The confrontation line

THE CONFRONTATION LINE

A successful interception is made and a counter-attack launched with a direct pass

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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NEIL WARNOCK

2

st st

Re Re

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

n n n io io io at e at e at ne n n nt Li nt Li ont Li ro ro r nf nf nf Co Co Co ng ng ng ni e ni e ni e ai in ai in ai in tr L str L str L Re Re

3

The restraining line ensures high defensive lines are maintained. But defenders must be aware of the danger areas left by adopting a high line, which are vulnerable to quick counter-attacks

s Re

Players who press must realise when to approach and when to drop back, quickly communicating this decision to team mates. When preparing to counter, team mates must be similarly clear about the areas that are to be attacked (3). Remember too that counter-attacking teams must themselves be aware of being exposed, so team mates must cover forward breaks. For example, if the full-back is counter-attacking, the centre-backs and opposite full-back must slide across, with a midfielder dropping into the gap as extra support.

Players must aim to break into designated counterattacking areas

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

On this occasion blues apply quick pressure so a counterattack is launched using indirect passes

Re

What are the key things to look for technically/ tactically?

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

n n n io io io at e at e at ne n n nt Li ont Li ont Li ro r r nf nf nf g Co Co ing Co ing in in ne ain ine ain ine ra Li r L r L st

To ensure that teams don’t sit deep we add a restraining line, which represents the furthest point that defenders can drop to. This compression of play in match practice allows a free flow of counter-attacking scenarios to develop at both ends (2). We’ll also pause play to highlight developing situations.

1d

nf Co

How do I progress the session?

nf Co

communication is essential.

n n n io io io at ne at ne at ne nt Li ont Li ont Li ro r r

nf Co

THE CONFRONTATION LINE

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KENNY DALGLISH Kenny Dalglish Attacking movement and interplay

ATTACKING MOVEMENT AND INTERPLAY

Move 1: quick wide attack

Striker 1 must be coached to ‘drop-off’ the defender before coming to receive the ball

Overview: This session helps improve movement and interplay between midfielders and forwards. It’s designed to encourage understanding between players through timing of runs, weight of pass, and expectation of a team mate’s movement. Building this understanding is vital for the creation of chances as a fluid unit, and this session offers a number of set-ups and progressions to test attacking and defending players in equal measure. Each move takes place on a half pitch with four mannequins placed 8 yards apart across the pitch, 10 yards outside the penalty box. These represent the back four.

SET-UP AREA

Half pitch EQUIPMENT

Balls, mannequins, goal NUMBER OF PLAYERS

5 (incl. a keeper) SESSION TIME

7-8mins for each move, 3-4mins for each progression

1 The wide man breaks forward to receive the pass

The second striker drops deep to receive

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

A pass is threaded through the channel to the wide player

2 A floated cross invites the three players to attack the goal

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

What do I get the players to do?

who has moved deep to support. Timing of the pass is essential The coach starts the drill by laying the ball to so that striker 2 can themidfielder,whohas play a threaded pass two strikers moving off between the centrethe mannequins and a back and full-back mannequins for the winger out wide. wide man to run on to The midfielder plays and cross. the ball in to striker The two strikers and 1, whose double midfielder make their movement means he moves away then turns way into the box for the back sharply to receive cross. We now rerun on the opposite flank. the pass. The striker lays the ball to his team mate

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

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What are the key things to look for technically/ tactically?

The wide man needs to time his run well to ensure he stays onside in front of the line of We must see good eye mannequins, and a good weight of final contact between the midfielder and striker 1. pass and subsequent cross is essential. Passing moves are conducted at pace and with precision, so confident and well communicated link-up play is essential. The double movement of striker 1 is important in terms of him losing his man – he goes long only to come back short. www.elitesoccercoaching.net

KENNY DALGLISH ATTACKING MOVEMENT AND INTERPLAY

Move 2: quick central attack

A lofted ball picks out striker 1 with attacking team mates looking to support

3 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

In the central attack, striker 1 feints forward before spinning back around the centre-back Striker 2 rolls his defender

The striker this time pulls wider, and a deeper cross into the centre results

4 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

What do I get the players to do? The coach starts the drill by laying the ball to the midfielder, who opens up with a first touch onto his right foot. Striker 1’s movement sees him come short first, before spinning in behind the centre-

back. The striker is picked out by the midfielder using either an aerial ball or a threaded pass along the floor that is run on to. At this point the wide man runs diagonally inside the mannequin, while striker 2 also makes a charge for the box.

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

Striker 1 either takes the ball on himself to finish, or plays square for one of the other two inrushing players to finish.

What are the key things to look for technically/ tactically? Technique and weight of pass again come to 37

the fore, particularly for the ball played by the midfielder into the feet of striker 1. This pass needs to be perfect so the frontman can take it in his stride. Again, if the striker goes too early he risks straying offside. Assuming he stays onside, it’s crucial that his wide

man and fellow striker make positive and determined runs into the box for a potential finish. Again, we rerun on the opposite flank.

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KENNY DALGLISH ATTACKING MOVEMENT AND INTERPLAY

Move 3: measured central attack

5 The midfielder makes a positive forward run KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

Both strikers drop, looking to receive the ball

Striker 2 passes forward for striker 1 and the supporting midfielder

6 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

The supporting midfielder runs from deep to form a two-man attack

How do I progress What do I get the the drills? players to do? Each of these three drills can be progressed by adding in four defenders in place of the mannequins, plus a holding midfielder whose job it is to interrupt the initial approach play.

coming back short. In this move, we Striker 2 moves substitute the winger around the front to for an additional receive the lay-off midfielder, positioned from his team mate. on the other side of the He then plays an coach. immediate pass To start, the coach through the back touches the ball to the four for the second midfielder, who opens midfielder to run on to, up and plays to striker who ensures he times 1, whose movement his run well so as to is once again to fake receive the pass in his going long before stride. The front two

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

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move forward looking to score. Once finished, we direct the drill to the other side as in previous developments.

What are the key things to look for technically/ tactically? The central passing move is now tighter with an additional

midfielder, and this increases the need for accurate and wellweighted passing throughout. The double movement of striker 1 remains important, as does the timing of the midfielder’s run breaking at pace through the defensive line, whilst ensuring he stays onside.

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OWEN COYLE Owen Coyle Changing the point of attack Overview: Being able to quickly, efficiently and, at times, discretely change the point of attack is crucial for any team. The goal of this session is therefore to demonstrate the different ways the ball can be transitioned from one side of the field to the other, as well as highlighting what types of passes and movements are needed. What we’re looking to achieve is both wide players and central players becoming proficient in the ways they can take responsibility for the transition so that an alternate attacking opportunity can be produced and, we hope, a goal scored. Remember, when your team is in possession the opposition’s prime objective is to have proper cover and balance in their team. A quick change of attack to utilise space on the opposite side of the field, using 1v1s and 2v1s, can easily unsettle the other team.

CHANGING THE POINT OF ATTACK SET-UP AREA

Up to a half-pitch extended by 10 yards EQUIPMENT

Balls, cones, goals NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Up to 20 SESSION TIME

Stage 1 20mins, Stages 2 and 3 15mins (3x3mins with 2min rests), Stage 4 2x10min halves

What do I get the players to do? Stage 1 - warm-up We begin with a simple passing exercise, as shown (1), in order to get the players used to transitioning the ball from side to side, expanded to involve long driven balls. Stage 2 - small-sided activity This is 8v6 plus a keeper, with the overloading team attacking one central goal (2a). Players 2 and 7 stay in the wide right channel, with 3 and 11 in the wide left. Players 6 and 8 must move the ball quickly to wide areas to provoke attacks (2b), with number 10 also asked to transition the ball using one- or two-touch play. Players in wide channels can play with unlimited touches and all passing must be at high speed. Should defenders win the ball, it’s returned to the server. To progress, combination play is introduced to encourage interaction between central players so they think one pass ahead. Then

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

1 In Stage One, in a 20x5-yard area players pass to the man in front, then move to the back of the line. In the progression, we set up for longer passes

2a

In Stage Two, central players make quick combinations to start the move A pass is fed quickly to the right where overloading wide men combine to send a cross back into the middle

2b

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OWEN COYLE CHANGING THE POINT OF ATTACK we encourage direct and driven long balls in switching play with one pass(2c). What are the key things to look out for? Technically, passing must be crisp and clean. For two-touch transitions, the first touch must be under control to lead to a clean pass; for one-touch play, players must be led into space away from pressure to keep the tempo high. For longer passes, direct driven balls need to be emphasised rather than any passes with ‘air’ under them. But overall, the key component is getting the ball to the other side as quickly as possible. Tactically, players must understand when to change the point of attack. An overload of defenders usually indicates the change is necessary - prolonged possession in a specific area can provoke this opportunity. Stage 3 - expanded small-sided activity We move to 10v9 plus a keeper, as shown (3), allowing the defending team to attack two counter goals positioned 10 yards in from each sideline. We add two attckers and three defenders. Giving defenders goals to attack means the attacking team must transition from defence to attack, offering additional opportunities to switch the ball.

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

2c In the progression, the onus is on quick one- and twotouch switches, mixing short and long passes In Stage 3, whites combine well in sending a quick switch out to the flanks, but must position smartly in order to protect against a transition

3

September 28, 2014

Houston Dynamo 2 Chicago Fire 0 In an important game against the Chicago Fire at the end of last year’s MLS season we were in need of three points. The win kept our play-off hopes alive and was a perfect example of switching the point of attack quickly. 3 The ball was chipped to the overlapping number 2, who headed back into the danger area

4 Our striker arrived with a late run into the box to volley home

E AS H t P SE 1s A PHASE t 1s PH t 1s

1 After quick midfield passing drew the defence towards the ball, a switched pass released the wide man into space

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L OA G E TH OAL E G AL TH GO E TH 2 The number 11 carried the ball into the attacking third

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ALEX MCLEISH Alex McLeish Whole team attacking Overview I use this session to get my players working as a unit and using the whole team to develop an attack. The session utilises all attacking options like full backs, wingers and midfield runs. It is important to practice to develop the range of passing, crossing and finishing. It also relies on good exchange of movements between full backs and wingers, and central midfielders and attackers, for example. In theory, the more you repeat in training, the more natural it will become in a game situation. Typically, we will do this as a technical session on Thursday or Friday in a week where there is no midweek fixture and the game is on Saturday. Monday will be a recovery day, Tuesday a working day (i.e. fitness) and Wednesday a day off.

WHOLE TEAM ATTACKING: MAIN SESSION SETUP

Key Ball movement

AREA

Player movement

Half pitch EQUIPMENT

Goal, balls NUMBER OF PLAYERS: 11

2 fullbacks 2 central midfielders 2 wingers 2 centre forwards 2 servers 1 goalkeeper

1

What do I get the players to do? Servers stand either side of the goal with a supply of balls. They can pass to any of the attacking players. When a ball is served the attacking players combine to score using a variety of passing and movement. Players should be overlapping and exchanging positions, using variety in when the ball is delivered and where a player chooses to shoot from. When the ball goes dead return to positions and a new ball is served.

What are the key things to look for technically/ tactically? It is important that the players maintain a high tempo, keeping the ball and themselves moving. We are looking for accuracy in all crossing and finishing. Ultimately, we want to see play resulting in a goal or shot on target. With the absence of defenders this shouldn’t be a problem!

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

The session starts with the server passing to any player.

2 The players combine to create a scoring opportunity.

3 Look for a high tempo with players always on the move.

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ALEX MCLEISH WHOLE TEAM ATTACKING: PROGRESSION Key Ball movement

How do I progress the session? There are a few natural progressions: 1 The servers become central defenders who try to stop the players scoring. 2 Limit the number of touches. 3 Insist that every attack has to include players switching positions. 4 Add more opposition if additional players are available.

Player movement Dribble

1 Now, after serving, the servers become defenders.

How would you put this into a game situation? Move on to a full pitch. The goalkeeper starts with the ball and passes to a centre half. This gives centre backs practice at playing long passes to the centre forwards. Once the ball has been played forward the players practice the same movements as before. Again, add more opposition if you have sufficient numbers.

2 We can also insist that every attack involves swapping positions, such as an overlap.

3 “It is important that the players maintain a high tempo” PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

Again we want to see a high tempo with accurate crossing and finishing.

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CARLO ANCELOTTI & Paul Clement Carlo Ancelotti

& Paul Clement

Overlapping against a low defensive block and in counter attacking Overview: This session focuses on attacking play and, in particular, the use of overlaps to create and exploit space, a fundamental principle of attacking football. Ultimately, a team can go through, round or over the opposition’s defence in the process of scoring or making an attempt on goal. Some teams will use a multi-faceted approach to attacking, while others are more one-dimensional, but each must be prepared for. The way the opposition defends will impact how space can be exploited (by using high, medium or low block... or a combination), and whether space can be found to the sides or behind.

OVERLAPPING AGAINST A LOW DEFENSIVE BLOCK AND IN COUNTER ATTACKING SET-UP AREA

Full pitch

Proving the move

6 Arbeloa’s cross finds Ronaldo who finishes emphatically

September 20 Deportivo La Coruna 2, Real Madrid 8

EQUIPMENT

Balls, cones, goals, mannequins NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Up to 10v10 plus keeper

1 Ramos commences the move

Ronaldo James

Ramos

SESSION TIME

80mins

What do I get the players to do? Technical expertise (12mins) Following a standard warm-up (8mins), we set up as shown (1) - a simple ‘pass and follow’ process in a passing circuit, with one-two combination play in wide positions. We want to see movement before the ball is received, good timing and weight of the pass, and playing intensity. In the second practice (2), we progress things so the wide player moves inside either with or without the ball. He then chooses to either pass to that overlapping player or go it alone. 4v3 counter-attacking (15mins) Now we move into the centre of the pitch to set up a practice where four attackers must advance in on three defenders at speed (3). Attackers 1 and 2 attempt to isolate defender 1 in creating a 2v1 situation. Attacker 3 penetrates the defensive line by making a diagonal run between defenders 2 and 3. Attacker 4 maintains width on the right side.

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

Arbeloa

Kroos

5 Ronaldo touches the ball on to him then makes a rapid movement for the box 2 James and Kroos make a quick exchange of passes

3 James breaks into the middle third

1 The wide player pulls off then comes short

4 Arbeloa anticipates the break and makes a overlapping run up the flank

4 The sequence makes it to the top

2 An initial one-two is made

1

First pass

5 Now the move comes back the other way

3 A longer pass is set on the other side of the mannequin

3 The wide player turns and feeds a pass to the overlapping player 2 The serving player makes an overlapping run

2

4 The wide player can choose to receive outside the mannequin, before turning inside and passing to the overlapping player 1 In the progression, the wide player moves inside the mannequin

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KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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CARLO ANCELOTTI & Paul Clement OVERLAPPING AGAINST A LOW DEFENSIVE BLOCK AND IN COUNTER ATTACKING Attackers know that to defend the overlap and diagonal run, defenders have to slide together, closing the space between. If they do this, the ball should be switched back quickly to the opposite side. Phase of play (20mins) This is 10v10 plus one keeper (4). Teams are organised in a low defensive block, with the attacking team aiming to create space by spreading out end to end and side to side - note the spacing between players and the positioning between the lines of the opposition. The attacking team attempts to exploit the green shaded areas as this is where most space can be found. Should reds recover the ball, they attack any of the three small goals. We are looking for good positioning, technical quality, quick ball movement and clever running off the ball, smart decisionmaking, switches of play, overlaps, crossing and finishing, and balance in order to prevent counterattacks. Game (20mins) This is a conditioned game to encourage overlapping (5). The wide areas are marked off into zones where only one defender and two attackers can enter, while the pitch is divided into thirds with offsides ‘live’ from these lines. A goal scored that uses an overlapping movement counts double. PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

3 The central attacker looks for a space to exploit between defenders 2 The use of a quick overlap after an initial pass is key

3 1 The server begins 4 The opposite full-back stays wide in order to be available for a switch Green shaded areas represent key attacking spaces

4

Again, a wide overlap is essential for beating the block

Reds set up with a low defensive block (4-4-2)

Reds can counter with the aim of scoring in any of the three goals

5 In the game situation, the set-up is conditioned to encourage overlapping, with only one defender and two attackers allowed to enter the channels, and offsides applying beyond the ‘third of pitch’ lines

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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STEVE MCCLAREN Steve McClaren Transition, rotating and attacking Overview: This session is about counter-attacking, transitioning, and players rotating in their positions. It relies on good linkup play and positive attacking, combining fast-paced and measured attacks on goal. Defenders benefit from dealing with overloads in this session, which we always find important to practise, given that there are 200 turnovers per team in each game.

“Transitioning from attacking to defending and reorganising quickly for this change is essential.”

TRANSITION, ROTATING AND ATTACKING SET-UP AREA

Up to a full pitch

1a

EQUIPMENT

Balls, cones, goals NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Up to 11v9 SESSION TIME

Transition and rotation drill 3 x 12mins, 11v9 3 x 12mins

What do I get the players to do? Transition and rotation drill We set this up as shown, using the space in between the penalty areas (1a). To begin, both attackers emerge from behind the top goal - one of them has the ball. This man lays a pass into the feet of one of two team mates in the other half. Both ‘start’ players then go to support - so four attackers move in on goal against three defenders. Attackers have 10 seconds to score a goal (1b). If after 10 seconds there is no goal, or possession is turned over, the ball is returned to the server. Straight away, the server puts a second ball into play for another 4v3 (1c), except this time attackers can take as long as they need to find the net. All players reset after the second attack, which begins from the other end of the playing area (2).

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

In the Transition and rotation drill, attackers advance from behind the goal, with a ball played to a team mate in the other half of the pitch

1b

Whites have 10 seconds to combine and score in the goal

1c

A new ball is then served in for another 4v3 attack

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble Optional pass/ run

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STEVE MCCLAREN TRANSITION, ROTATING AND ATTACKING What are the key things to look out for? Defenders must act exactly as they would in a match situation – so that means organising and communicating well and protecting against offsides. Each attacker must advance quickly and pressure defenders, whether or not he has the ball. Offensive moves must penetrate in behind the defenders, with attackers always looking to make forward runs or forward passes. Look to see how attackers act differently for the second phase. Here, the ball is delivered into a confined space, whereas in the initial phase the attack came together gradually. Transitioning from attacking to defending and reorganising quickly for this change is essential. 11v9 game Now on a full pitch, we play 11v9 (reds versus whites). The ball is fed to the whites (3), who must attack the bottom goal at their own pace. Play as you would a normal game, but now, when reds turn over possession, they have 10 seconds to score a goal (4). If they fail to score, the ball is kicked out of play and a new one served in. Ensure the ball comes from different parts of the pitch whenever it is reintroduced. PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

2

Now, an opposition attack begins in the other direction

3

The 11v9 begins with a ball served in to any white player

4

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble Optional pass/ run

When the team of 11 – the reds – turns over possession, it has 10 seconds to score in the goal 46

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ROBERTO DI MATTEO Roberto Di Matteo Attacking Aims Overview: This session improves and develops attacking balance when going forward. Often we have to switch play or break out at pace, and it’s important that we retain structure and don’t become onedimensional. To help achieve this we adopt our club philosophy of utilising the full width of the pitch when attacking. We will practise this in training in the same way that we construct it in a match situation, ensuring that players understand how and when to move the ball from one side of the pitch to the other. This session has led to the creation of numerous goalscoring chances - even against the top sides - and we will practise it in training at least once a week.

“Players must show good technique given the tight passing environment.”

ATTACKING AIMS: MAIN SESSION SET-UP AREA

45x40 yards with four marked boxes in each of corners EQUIPMENT

Cones, balls NUMBER OF PLAYERS

18 (9v9)

1

What do I get the players to do? Splitting the playing area in two, all players begin in one half of the pitch with the exception of two target men - one for each side - who are located in the other half. The team starting with possession must complete a minimum of four passes before transferring the ball to their target man who is positioned in a small boxed area at the other end of the pitch. Defenders must close down space in trying to prevent the switch. In making their passes, the attacking team can utilise a ‘floating’ team-mate, who is positioned off one side of the pitch and is free to play along the touchline up to the halfway mark. He cannot be tackled. When a switch is successfully made and the target man receives possession, all players move to the other half. Here again, four passes must be made before a switch to the other half, where the former floating player is now fixed in a boxed area. Should an interception be made though, it is now the defenders’ turn to build ‘pass and switch’ moves.

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

Using their ‘floating’ player, the red team attempts to make four passes

2 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

The switch to the target man is made, and players move to the other half of the pitch

3 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

The target man is now ‘floating’, helping his side construct another four passes 47

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ROBERTO DI MATTEO ATTACKING AIMS: PROGRESSION What are the key things to look for technically/ tactically? Awareness is everything in this session. Any player receiving the ball needs to check over his shoulder to be aware of all opportunities. Players must show good technique given the tight environment, as well as quality passing ability, particularly when the switch is made. Tactically, this session is all about offering balance when the team attacks, ensuring that there is a good flow of forward movement while, in the progression, strong defensive cover is also factored in.

How do I progress the session? We progress the session by adding a goal and goalkeeper at each end. Now, when four passes have been completed and the switch made, the target player has two touches to deliver a ball into the middle which is attacked. But, when a team breaks forward into the other half they must leave defensive players back to protect against the opposition turning over possession, because four quick passes can trigger a counterattacking pass to the their target man. Progress this further by restricting play to three- or two-touch.

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

1 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

In the progression, with goals added, the ball again reaches the target player

2 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

He is allowed two touches before playing in an assist for his strikers

3 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

Red players hold back in the instance of the blue team winning position and switching at pace 48

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GUS POYET Gus Poyet Assisted crossing in the final third

2v0 attacks

1 The two attackers begin by interchanging passes

Overview: SET-UP AREA

Up to a half-pitch

1

EQUIPMENT

Balls, cones, goals NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Up to 7v7

2 The ball is fed to a wide man

SESSION TIME

40-60mins

Thesessionisaboutimprovingthe techniqueandqualityofcrossesinto the18-yardbox-whippedinwith pace,stooduptothebackpost,cut backorfloated-withtheemphasis onperfectingasupplylinethatgives teammatesthebestopportunityto score. It’sabouttryingtocreate understandingandawareness ofteammates’runs,withplayers choosingthecorrectdeliveryto givethatattackingplayerthebest opportunitytoscore. Thesessionneedstimeand, preferably,calm,mildweather inorderforplayerstobeableto maximisebothitspotentialandthat oftheirown.Weliketorunitinpreseason,atimewhenplayersbegin tounderstandwhatwe’relookingfor asateam,butalsogettolearnabout eachothers’individualstrengths. Wewillalsorunthesessionif we’vecreatednumerouscrossing opportunitiesinrecentmatches withoutrealisingadefinitiveend product.

4 Attackers organise for a simple chance which is taken

3 He takes two touches before sending a cross into the centre

2v1 attacks

2 They run into the box but one attacker is picked up by the waiting defender, who stays on him

4 He successfully does this and a goal is scored

2

3 It is the wide man’s task to hit the free man with his cross

What do I get the players to do? 2v0 attacks Wesetupasshownina44x36-yard area(ortwopenaltyboxesput together)(1).Therearefourwide playersandtwolotsofpairson eithersideofthetwogoals.Thefirst pairinterchangepassesthenplay adiagonalballtoeithertherightor leftwideman.Widemenhavetwo orthreetouchesbeforedeliveringa crossintothebox. Thefirstpairmustfocusontiming andmakingrunsintothepenalty area,withthewidemandecidingon atypeofcrossthatisthendelivered toeitherunmarkedplayerforan attemptatgoal.

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

1 Again the two attackers move forward

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

49

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GUS POYET ASSISTED CROSSING IN THE FINAL THIRD How do I progress the practice? Weprogressbyintroducinga defender,asshown(2).Thisplayer isaskedtomarkoneoftheattackers (leavingtheotheronefree)enabling thecrosseroftheballtofindthefree playerinthebox. Wethenmovetoa3v2,asshown(3). Thiscomplicatesfurtherthedecisionmakingoftheplayercrossingtheball butslowlywearemovingthisplayer intoamindsetwherebyheknows hemustbepreciseandaccurateto succeed. Wewanttoseelotsofmovementin thearea,agoodselectionoftheright passorcrosstotheunmarkedplayer andanawarenessofthetimingofhis run.Theseelementsdevelopwith repetition,practiceandfamiliarityof thewayteammatesplay. What are the key things to look out for? Tactically,playersmustpickoutthe unmarkedplayer.Concentration iskeybecausethetaskathandis notaboutjustcrossing;itisabout ‘passing’theballtoateammate inordertocreateagoalscoring opportunity,andthatcanonlybe achievedifplayersarecomposed. Technically,wearelookingatthe selectionofcrossesandtheirquality, withdeliveryandpacecrucial.We wanttoseecrossesstoodup,floated andcutback,withtheweightofthat crossvariedsothatareceivingplayer needstothinkaboutwhetherhe shouldtakeatouchorfinishfirsttime. It’scommonforplayerstobelieve whattheyaredoingistooeasy. However,whendefendersare introducedintothesessionthey oftenrealiseit’sverydifficulttofind thefreeplayerwiththerightball,and whatisbeingdemandedofthemis considerablequalityandtechnique. How would you put this into a game situation? Wemovethisintoa8v8gamesituation ina50x44-yardarea,asshown(4).It’s normalruleswithplayerspositioned inspecificareasontheoutsideof thepitch.Here,theycanreceivethe ballfree,andareabletocontroland crosswithtimeandspaceinorderto improvetheirassist/crossingability. PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

3v2 attacks

1 Now attackers are working as a three as they move forward

3

2 Two defenders latch on to the attackers

3 The crosser’s task is made all the more difficult given that the free player must negotiate space for himself in order to get onto the end of the cross

Game situation 4

In the game situation, a goal that originates from a wide channel counts double

50

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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NEIL LENNON Neil Lennon Counterattacking masterclass Overview:

COUNTER-ATTACKING MASTERCLASS SET-UP AREA

Half pitch

1a

5

EQUIPMENT

In the counter-attacking game, whites attack at pace, move into the end zone and score a goal

5

1b 35

5

The player who scores must run around the goal, and a new ball is served immediately, thus creating a 5v4 counter-attacking overload

5

1c

35

5

25

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

5

25

“When an opposition attack breaks down, it’s crucial we’re ready and prepared to break quickly, capitalising on the fact they are out of position.”

35

25

This session looks at Balls, cones, goal counter-attacking with NUMBER OF PLAYERS an overload. We run 15 this regularly because SESSION TIME when an opposition Counter-attacking attack breaks down, game and half-pitch it’s crucial we’re ready game - 4x4mins each and prepared to break quickly, capitalising on What do I get the players to do? the fact they are out of Counter-attacking position. game Setting up as shown, this game is 5v5. The object for each team is to link up with clever passing, break into the end zone and score in the goal (1a). Defenders cannot retreat into the end zone until attackers enter it. When a team scores, the goalscorer has to run around the goal and re-enter the playing area from the other side. As he is doing this, the server plays a new ball into the area to the other team, therefore encouraging them to counter forward in a 5v4 situation (1b). Players who were previously on the attack are now defenders, their task being to contain and recover the opposition’s attack while their fifth player comes back into play. It is for this reason that counter-attacks are done at pace, so as to make full use of the one-man advantage. However, players must ensure moving at pace isn’t at the expense of losing possession (1c).

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

51

But on this occasion the counter-attack fails, and whites find themselves back on the attack www.elitesoccercoaching.net

NEIL LENNON COUNTER-ATTACKING MASTERCLASS Half pitch Now we move to a half pitch, with four groups of three attackers (2a), and two groups of two defenders who rotate frequently. Blue attackers feed whites on the halfway line. These players advance, attacking 3v2 (2b). As the attack happens, blues assume the positions of the reds, ready to commence the next attack. When the white attack finishes, players exit to the opposite side they received the ball from. To progress this practice, we leave two attackers on the pitch after each 3v2, also adding two extra defenders who approach from behind the goal. This creates a 5v4 (3).

What are the key things to look out for? In each practice players need to pass and move at pace. If too many touches are made, or if players fail to utilise good movement and positioning, attacks will break down.

2a

In the half pitch game, the ball is fed to the whites who attack the goal 3v2

2b

Clever movement and use of space sees the attackers work a goalscoring chance as blues prepare to start

3

By leaving two attackers up the pitch and bringing in two defenders, we change the game to a 5v4

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

52

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STEVE CLARKE Steve Clarke Penalty box session Overview: This is about high quality of crosses into the box with good finishing. It’s important to practise this because despite the minute attention to detail that soccer demands, it is basic technique, skill and tactical awareness that ultimately leads to goalscoring chances being created. And that applies at all levels of the game.

PENALTY BOX SESSION SET-UP

Player movement:

AREA

Players 1 and 2 link, feed player 3, then sprint to the box for the return

Up to a half-pitch EQUIPMENT

Players 4 and 5 link, feeding player 6

Balls, cones, goals

Players 7 and 8 link, feeding player 9

NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Players 10 and 11 link, feeding player 12

Up to 20

12feeding player 3 Players 13 and 14 link,

SESSION TIME

Link-up attacks 8mins, with full-back 8mins, with defender 8mins, game 2x8mins

13

8 1

12

3

13

8 1

1a

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

2

7 14

3 2

10

10

6

5

6

5

4

9

11 4

Players 1 and 2 combine, feed the ball to player 3, then sprint into the opposing penalty area looking to score from the resulting cross

9

11

12

1b

7 14

13

12

13

3

8

8 7 14

3 7 14 2

10

5 6

2

10

5

4 11

Now the move comes back the other way, with players 4, 5 and 6 combining to set up a similar chance

“Attackers must use the pace on the cross and guide a finish into the goal.”

What do I get the players to do? Two-box link-up attacks We set up two goals a distance of 41 yards apart (two penalty boxes end to end, plus

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

9 1

4 11

the D, as shown). The practice uses an even number of players – between 12 and 20. In the first part, player 1 passes in to the coach, who sets the ball for player 2 to drive out 53

6

9 1

to player 3. Player 3 controls and crosses for those two active players who have now made runs into the box (1a). After an effort at goal, players 1 and 2 join the queue behind

the goal. The sequence now comes back in the other direction, with players 4 and 5 combining to hit player 6 on the wing, and so on (1b). www.elitesoccercoaching.net

STEVE CLARKE

12

13

8 1

3

12

PENALTY BOX SESSION Full-back progression In the progression, the drill starts the same way, but 3 now sets the ball back to 12 for a first-time cross (2). The practice then continues with the same new sequence – 4 and 5 pass out to 6, who sets back to 9, and so on. Defender progression Now put a defender in position at each end (3). This will require attackers to find space, as well as requiring greater accuracy on deliveries from wide players.

8

2

7 14

1

2

3

12

13

8

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

2

7 14 6

1 10

53 2

10

10

4

5

4

5

3

6

9

11

4

9

11

12

13

12

3

7 14 6

9

11

In the progression, the move commences as before, but instead of player 3 crossing, the ball is set back for player 12 to send over a long cross

What are the key things to look out for? The tempo of the practice must be at match pace. If the session is too slow it doesn’t work. We’re also looking for the timing and angle of runs into the box to be precise, and players must attack the ball as a pair – one to the near post and the other to the far post. Attackers must use the pace on the cross and guide a finish into the goal. Crosses can be whipped in, driven or set back.

13

13

8

8 7 14

12

3 2

13

8 7 14

10

5 6

3 2

2

7 14 10

10

4

5

11

9 1

4

5

Putting a defender in place creates an additional challenge – for attackers in finding space, and for wingers in picking out their team mates in the middle

11

9 1

4 11

6

6

9 1

4

How would you put this into a game situation? For a game situation, set up a half-pitch game with two wide players for each team. Goals can only be scored from crosses (4).

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

Playing out the principles practised in a small-sided game, goals can only be scored from wide crosses into the middle 54

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ALAN PARDEW Alan Pardew Playing forward in a 4-3-3 Overview: This session is about playing forward in a 4-3-3 formation, outlining passing options to three rotating midfielders and three advanced forward players. The session enables us to emphasise the idea of passing forward in between rigid opposition units to break through an opposition’s midfield and defence. It’s possible to beat even the deepest deep defensive block with clever combination and link-up play. The practice also enables us to control possession through multiple passing options, meaning we can manage and dictate the game when we have the ball, and can rest when in the lead.

PLAYING FORWARD IN A 4-3-3 SET-UP AREA

Up to a full pitch EQUIPMENT

Balls, cones, goals

Central players rotate, with Gouffran and Cisse making space for themselves and performing decoy runs that drag defenders away

PROVING THE PROCESS Newcastle United v Chelsea Feb 2, 2013 Jonas Gutierrez goal

Santon advances into the space

NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Up to 22 SESSION TIME

Technical warm-up 20mins, Possession exercises 20mins, Game play 20mins

What do I get the players to do? Technical warm-up This practice uses 12 players – a keeper, eight attackers (reds), three defenders (yellows) – and four mannequins. Setting up as shown, we work on the rotation of the three midfield reds, numbers 4, 8 and 10. Players must keep possession (1), and after a succession of passes or a command from the coach, they attack the goal. Yellows take on positions of two centrehalves and a centremidfielder and play realistically. To progress, we encourage players 7, 9 and 11 to come infield or drop deep. When this happens, players 2, 3, 8 and 10 must advance and make quick forward runs (2). Again, end with a shot on goal. Possession exercise Setting up as shown, the numbers indicate how to make the exercise position- and game-specific. This practice features three

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

e as

2

Ph Players rotate in the centre and use a passing triangle to keep the ball away from opposition players. Perch finds Santon out wide with a driven pass

1

e1

s ha

P

Santon crosses for Gutierrez who has made an infield run into the box and a goal is scored

10 moves away under pressure

7 moves to space left by 9 11 9

3

10 8

4

7

In the Technical warm-up, central players 4, 8 and 10 pass the ball to one another and rotate positions, before taking the ball forward for a shot on goal

2

2 makes a quick run into the space left by 7

8 rotates into space left by 10

2

11 9 10 3

Play is quickly switched right, with player 4 driving a pass in behind the mannequin for the advancing wide player

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8

7

2

4

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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ALAN PARDEW PLAYING FORWARD IN A 4-3-3

11

3a

9 3

TARGET

8 10 7 5

4

2

In the Possession exercise, reds must work the ball from one target area to the next, with yellows working at 90 degrees and blues looking to intercept

11

3b

TARGET

3 9 8

10 7

5 4 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

teams – reds, who play vertically; yellows, who play horizontally; and blues who chase the ball down (3a). Reds and yellows must work together in transferring the ball from the red player in one target zone to the red player in the opposite zone (3b). The five players in the central channel

2

Reds and yellows link up and successfully feed the ball through to the red target player

(reds) represent centre-backs, centremidfielders and centre-forwards. There is one player in each zone plus a central floater. The five players across the middle zone (yellows) represent full-backs and wide midfielders. There is one in each of the wide areas plus a floater.

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

Blues (the chasers) can go into any zone to chase the ball down. Swap the chasing team after five minutes, or when the chasers have regained the ball five times. 11v11 game Once again, the player numbers relate to positions in an 11v11 game (4a). 56

Setting up as shown, the two centre-backs cannot leave the defensive zone – this is to maximise the space for central midfielders to play in. Other zones are included to aid midfielders’ spatial positioning, and to enable a rotation of players between the three quarters.

How do I progress the game? We can progress this game by allowing one centre-back to leave his zone and travel into midfield in order to create an overload. We might also move the opposition defensive zone higher in order to increase space in behind for forwards. www.elitesoccercoaching.net

ALAN PARDEW PLAYING FORWARD IN A 4-3-3

2

4a

5

6 8

7

4 3

10

9

11

In the 11v11 game, the pitch is divided into zones so as to aid midfielders’ spatial positioning

2

4b

5

8

6

7

4 9

3

10

11 KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

In the progression, the defensive line can be moved up. This creates less room in midfield and space ‘in behind’ for forwards to run into

At the same time, this decreases the space for midfielders to work in (4b). What are the key things to look out for? Position and body shape... players to open up so that in receiving the ball they can see other players’ movements across

the whole pitch 360 degree awareness... players must check over both shoulders both before a pass is played and as the ball is travelling towards them Step onto the ball... players cannot be stationary for their first touch An active first touch...

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

players must move the ball into the space and away from defenders Open up forward passing channels... players 4, 8 and 10 must occupy different quarters of the central area of the pitch and not block passing options to the front three Stretching the pitch... 57

players 7, 9 and 11 must enlarge the playing area and offer killer pass options in behind the opposition defence Player rotations... rotations, forward runs and switches of roles and positions must happen all the time (for example, 11 comes infield to overload possession

and 3 or 8 advance into the vacated space) Technical and tactical understanding builds throughout the session, which ends with a game situation into which warm-up, possession practice and game play can all be practised.

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MALKY MACKAY Malky Mackay Overlapping

SET-UP AREA

Up to 54x36 yards

1a

EQUIPMENT

Balls, cones, goals NUMBER OF PLAYERS

22 SESSION TIME

Pass and overlap drill 15mins, Game-related practice 15mins plus 10min progression

30 A makes a diagonal run and overlaps B, receiving the ball and passing out to C

2a

In the Game-related practice, the set-up is 8v8 in the middle with two opposing players on each flank

PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

In the Pass and overlap drill, A passes to B, who drives across the area with the ball at his feet

1b

15

What do I get the players to do? Pass and overlap drill We begin in a 30x15yard area, with two players at each end. A passes to B, who then drives diagonally into the area (1a). A overlaps and receives the ball, passing onwards to C (1b). Working players now vacate the area, and the link-up play is then repeated as the move comes back in the other direction. What are the key things to look out for? We want to see good weight and accuracy of pass. Communication from A is so important in terms of when and to where the ball is released on the overlap. At first, build slowly and use repetition so that the process becomes second nature. Then ask for players to quicken the pace when they feel more comfortable.

30

15

Overview: This session is about creating crossing opportunities high up the pitch by manufacturing 2v1 overlaps and overloads. It’s important to practise this because moving the opposition back four with switches of play and timing of overlaps is a vital part of any offensive side’s armoury, whether or not the final attack goes out wide for a cross.

OVERLAPPING

58

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

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MALKY MACKAY OVERLAPPING Game-related practice The game is performed in an area comprised of two penalty boxes placed together, plus 5-yard zones on either side. It’s 8v8 in the main area, and there is a player from both teams on each flank (2a). On the flanks, the defending player cannot tackle, so when the ball is fed wide the attacker overlaps, receives the ball, and moves forward preparing to cross (2b). This player needs to recognise the ‘trigger’ to move, namely the infield wide man driving inside, as practised in ‘Pass and overlap drill’. How do I progress the session? We now make the session opposed. So when the wide attacker takes his first touch, his opposing defender and any infield defender can engage, making a 2v1 (3a/3b). Can the winger find an attacker to restore the situation to a 2v2? Can he create a 2v1 attacking overload and make room for a precise cross into the box? Later, we might also remove the wide zones to make it as game realistic as possible. What are the key things to look out for? We’re looking for timing of runs, good communication between attackers, plus good passing weight and accuracy. It’s important that the overlapping player does not get ahead of the ball, so well-timed runs are vital. PROFESSIONAL ATTACKING TACTICS

KEY Ball movement Player movement Dribble

2b

When the ball goes wide, the unopposed wide attacker moves it up the wing and prepares to cross

3a

In the progression play is opposed, so blue defenders move in for a 2v1, though quick link-up play sets the red winger free up the wing

3b

In this instance, possession is turned over and the blue winger advances up the wing

59

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SOCCER