Oafc academy individual coaching programme and technical curiculum by simon cooper

Oldham Athletic Football Academy
Individual Technical Curriculum

Contents
Key and Guidelines
Scheme of work: Macro and Mesocycle U9-U18
- U9-U11 Macro and Mesocycle
- Goalkeeping Macro and Mesocycle
Technical Curriculum: Micro cycle U9-U18
Attacking
- Dribbling
- 1 v 1 attacking
- 2 v 2 attacking
- Turning
- Passing
- Receiving
Defending
- Individual Defending
- 1 v 1 Defending
- 2 v 2 Defending
- Intercepting
- Positioning
- Pressing

Contents cont
Unit attacking
- Counter attacking (defending third)
- Patient build up play (defending third)
- Counter attacking (midfield third)
- Penetrating lines (midfield third)
- Individual and combination play (final third)
- Scoring from crosses (final third)
Team attacking
- Counter attacking (defending third)
- Patient build up play (defending third)
- Counter attacking (midfield third)
- Penetrating lines (midfield third)
- Individual and combination play (final third)
- Scoring from crosses (final third)
Unit defending
- Full pressing and support (attacking third)
- Recovery into shape (attacking third)
- Directing opponents into areas (midfield third)
- Screening and blocking through balls ( midfield third)
- Team compactness (defending third)
- Denying goal scoring opportunities (defending third)
Team defending
- Full pressing and support (attacking third)
- Recovery into shape (attacking third)
- Directing opponents into areas (midfield third)
- Screening and blocking through balls ( midfield third)
- Team compactness (defending third)
- Denying goal scoring opportunities (defending third)

Contents cont
Position specific curriculum
- Fullback
- Central defender
- Central midfielder
- Wide attacker
- Striker
Goalkeeping curriculum
- 1 v 1
- Handling / Feet
- Shot stopping
- Distribution
- Dealing with crosses

Introduction
Oldham Athletic FC Staff will ensure all players have the opportunity to learn and develop
through the performance pathway. The Academy commences with the foundation phase
where 1v1 skills and ball mastery are paramount, and continues to the senior professional
development phase where effective team play and position specific competence is essential.
Throughout the season the technical curriculum will have 8 phases of study, each phase
consisting of 6 weeks. Within each 6 week phase, 5 weeks will be spent studying attacking
and defending topics and the final week of each phase will take the form of physiological
testing.
All sessions within the Foundation phase and Youth Development phase will include a
multidisciplinary approach to player development focusing on the 4 Corner Model of
Technical, Tactical, Physiological and Psychological/Social aspects of performance. The
sessions will work in parallel with the Academy playing philosophy and each player’s
competence in each topic will be assessed via the games programme.
The Professional Development and Senior Professional Development phase will have access
to the technical curriculum, although there will be flexibility in the Macro cycle due to their
commitments in the games programme. The senior professional development phase will
include role specific practice with role specific movements and competencies for each
position. This will aid the transition across to the senior team and may require small group.
The position specific practice will take place for:
 Wide (Back) Defender
 Central Defender
 Midfield Player
 Forward (Striker)
A Goalkeeper Curriculum is in place and will develop the following aspects of performance:
 1 v 1
 Handling / feet
 Shot stopping
 Distribution
 Dealing with crosses

Key / Guidelines
Attacker / Attacking Team
Defender / Defending Team
Cone / marker disc
Path / movement of player
Path / movement of ball
Player dribbling / running with the ball
C Coach
A/A’S
s
Attacker / Attackers
Defender /Defenders
D/D’S

Key / Guidelines cont
 All games can be played with and without a GK, target players or floaters.
 The area size should be decided by the coach to suit the ability and age of the
players to meet the learning objectives of the session.
 All players will get equal opportunity to play Defensive, Midfield and Attacking roles
in each practice.
 Each practice can be adapted to meet the squad size as long as the learning
objectives are met.
 The formations for the Unit and Team sessions can be adapted to meet the needs of
the players and team plan.
 The multidisciplinary approach to each session will be adopted through the
performance pathway.
 The following Coaching Session Plan will be used by all staff and will be available at
the session being delivered.

Oldham Athletic Football Club Session Plan
General Details:

Date: Time:
Curriculum: Phase Week
Learning Focus:
Venue:
No. Players:
‘Who’ Knowledge of ‘TEAM’ Performer (4 Corners)
Technical Tactical
Physiological Psychological
‘Who’ Knowledge of ‘INDIVIDUAL’ Performer (4 Corners)
Technical
Tactical
Physiological
Psychological
‘What’ Intended Learning Outcomes
Main ILO
ILO (ex 1)
ILO (ex 2)
ILO (ex 3)
ILO (ex 4)
‘How’ Practice Structure & Interventions (please tick)

Exercise 1
Exercise 2
Exercise 3
Exercise 4
Evaluation: Learning objectives (Individual/Team), Four Corners LTPD, Playing Philosophy
What went well?
What didn’t go Well?
What would I do different next time?

Technical Curriculum – Attacking Play
Simple Attacking Principles:
 Create
 Maintain
 Exploit
SPACE
The following topics will develop players attacking skills in the different thirds of the pitch
based on the playing philosophy of the Academy:
 Defending Third – To play safe possession football if and when quick attacking play is
denied by the opposition, always looking to create opportunities for penetration of
the opposition in to the midfield and attacking thirds of the pitch.
 Midfield Third – To maintain possession of the ball if counter attacking opportunities
are denied. Possession must be intelligent with support and movement off the ball,
to create opportunities to penetrate the opposition defence, creating goal scoring
opportunities.
 Attacking Third – To create goal scoring opportunities through individual and
combined movements with the ball. Players will be encouraged to be clever and take
risks in the appropriate areas of the pitch in order to create such goal-scoring opportunities.
Technical Curriculum - Dribbling

Technical Learning Objective: Dribbling – The ability to manoeuvre the ball in a controlled
manner.
Tactical Learning Objective: When / Where – The ability to choose the correct time and
area of the field in which to dribble.
Physiological Learning Objective: Balance – Control of the player’s body movements to
manoeuvre the ball using ‘feint and dummy’ movements to off-balance the defender.
Psychological/Social Learning Objective: Positive Attitude – Players must have a positive
mind in order to take the opportunity to dribble whenever possible.
Learning outcome - To increase the ability of players to manoeuvre the ball in a controlled
manner within the game of football. The players should adopt a positive attitude whenever
the opportunity to dribble is presented in the appropriate area of the pitch. It is essential for
the players to have good balance in order to be in full control of the ball at all times.
EXEMPLAR SESSIONS
Technical
Ability to feint and dummy
Change of pace
Disguise
Ball Control
Tactical
When and Where
Timing
Cleverness
Awareness
Physiological
Balance
Co-ordination
Speed
Agility
Psychological/Social
Positive Attitude
Confidence
Team work
Innovative

Dribbling (1)
Balance
Technical: Dribbling Tactical: When / Where
Physiological: Balance Psychological: Positive Attitude
 Players have a ball each and
dribble around the area.
 On the coaches command they
stop or perform a move to
check they have control of the
ball.
 A’s have a ball each and aim to
dribble through as many ‘free’
gates in a set time.
 D’s aim to block the gates only
and cannot tackle, D’s can only
stay at the same gate for 3
seconds.
 4v4 Line Ball Game, players
must dribble the ball into the
end zone; GK’s maybe used to
keep possession and set up
attacks.
 The ball must be under full
control in the end zone, no
defenders can go in the end
zone.
GK
GK

Dribbling (2)
Dribbling (3)
 Split players up into two groups
and perform the circuit.
 When technique has been
mastered have players race
around the circuit.
 Ensure players turn both left
and right after going through
the cones.
 A’s have to dribble from one
end of the area and back
without being tackled.
 D’s cannot leave their zones
and aim to win the ball when an
A enters.
 The last A to be tackled is the
winner.
 4v4 Zone Game, 4v4 in middle
zone with free end zones.
 A’s aim to break free from the
middle zone into the end zone
and score.
 To start with A’s cannot be
tracked into the end zones by
D’s and finish past the GK
unopposed.
GK GK

work in pairs around the
outside of a triangle or square.
 A aims to stay away from D
who aims to tag A, both must
keep full control of the ball.
keep control for as long as
possible
 D’s line up on the outside
entering one by one every
thirty seconds.
 The last A to be tackled is the
winner.
 4v4 Corner Game, players must
dribble into the box where one
of their teammates is standing.
 The player who receives the
ball comes into play and the
other player takes his place as a
receiver.
 GK’s maybe used to set up
attacks.
GK
GK

Technical Curriculum – 1 v 1 Attacking Play
Technical Learning Objective: 1v1 Attacking – The ability of an attacker to beat a defender
through individual movement with the ball, being innovative and clever.
Tactical Learning Objective: Awareness – Understanding where the opponent is and what
third of the pitch the player is in, this will determine the skill used to beat the opponent.
Physiological Learning Objective: Acceleration - The ability to use explosive pace to get
past/away from the defender.
Psychological Learning Objective: Selfishness – Adopt a level of selfishness in order to
succeed in 1 v 1 situations.
Learning outcome: To increase the ability of the players to out-manoeuvre defenders
through individual movement in a game. The players should adopt a certain amount of
selfishness in order to be successful in 1 v 1 situations, good acceleration is an essential
attribute to use in order to burst away from the defenders in all thirds of the field.
Technical
Change of pace
Disguise
Ball Control
Tactical
Awareness
Timing
Cleverness
Awareness
Physiological
Balance
Co-ordination
Speed
Agility
Selfishness
Positive Attitude
Confidence
Innovative
Decision Making

EXEMPLAR SESSIONS
1 v 1 Attacking (1)
 Players pair up as A’s and D’s.
 A’s must try to keep the ball
away from D’s for as long as
possible using attacking skills.
 Start with passive pressure
before letting the D’s win the
ball.
Technical: 1 v 1 Attacking Tactical: Awareness
Physiological: Acceleration Psychological: Selfishness
 A passes to A, the A who
receives then aims to beat the
defender and dribble the ball
between the two cones.
 D aims to stop A from dribbling
between the two cones, if D
wins the ball he aims to dribble
to the single cone.
 Keep rotating roles of players.
 4v4 zone game: each square is
occupied by an A and a D,
players cannot leave their
squares.
 Encourage players to have good
awareness, acceleration and
optimum selfishness when in
possession of the ball.
GK GK

1 v 1 Attacking (2)
1v1 Attacking (3)
C
 2 A’s have a ball each.
 A’s aim to beat the D with a 1v1
move. D’s aim to distract A’s
however they cannot win the
ball to begin with.
 Progress to defenders being
able to win the ball.
 The coach serves the ball to an
A and a D rushes out to defend,
creating a 1v1 situation.
 To score A has to be in the final
third of the pitch.
 If D wins the ball he can score in
the opposing goal.
 4v4 Game.
 Players should be encouraged
to have good awareness,
acceleration and be selfish at
the correct times when in
possession.GK GK
GK GK

Technical Curriculum – 2v2 Attacking
 Players pair up with a ball each.
 Moving around the area they
perform 1v1 moves towards
each other.
 1 serving player the ball into
the central A whose aim is to
take it past the D and dribble
through the two cones.
 If D wins the ball he plays to the
D’s in between the two cones.
 Start off with the D’s providing
only passive pressure before
going full pressure.
 4v4 Zone Game, 2v2 in middle
zone, 1v1 in end zone.
 Players cannot leave their zones
and goals can only be scored
from within the end zone.
 Aim to develop understanding
of awareness, acceleration and
selfishness in all three zones.
GK GK

Technical Curriculum – 2 v 2 Attacking Play
Technical Learning Objective: 2v2 Attacking – The ability of the two attackers to beat two
defenders through individual skill and/or combination play/movement.
Tactical Learning Objective: Awareness – Understanding where the defender/s is/are, and
also where their teammate is in order to attack successfully.
Physiological Learning Objective: Acceleration - The ability to use explosive pace to get
past/away from the defender/s.
Psychological Learning Objective: Selfishness – Adopt a level of selfishness in order to
succeed in 2v2 situations.
Learning outcome: To increase the ability of two attackers to beat two defenders through
individual or combined movement in a game. The Players must have good awareness and
recognise when to be selfish in order to be successful in 2v2 situations. Players will need
good acceleration to burst away from the defenders in all thirds of the field.
Technical
Change of pace
Disguise
Ball Control
Tactical
Awareness
Timing
Cleverness
Awareness
Physiological
Balance
Co-ordination
Speed
Agility
Selfishness
Positive Attitude
Confidence
Innovative

EXEMPLAR SESSIONS
2v2 Attacking (1)
 A’s aim to combine and work
the ball to the other set of
cones under full control using
individual and combined
movements.
 D’s start passive then may
increase to full pressure and
aim to stop A’s from getting in-
between the two cones.
 The coach serves the ball and 2
A’s attack against 2 D’s, aiming
to score in the goal.
 If D’s win the ball they can
score in the opposing goal.
 To progress condition A’s to be
in the final third before scoring
this will encourage individual
and combined movements to
beat defenders in around the
goal.
C
GKGK
 4v4, 2v2 in each zone, players
cannot leave their zones.
 Encourage players to have
awareness, acceleration and
optimum selfishness at all
times.
GK GK

2v2 Attacking (2)
 A’s receive the ball from D’s
and aim to dribble the ball
through either of the two sets
of cones ahead of them.
 If D’s win the ball they aim to
dribble the ball through the
other set of cones.
 A’s receive the ball from D’s
and aim to score in any of the
two goals ahead of them.
score in the other set of goals.
 Progress to where A’s have to
be within 3 yards of the goal
before scoring to encourage
individual and combined
movements near to the goal.
 4v4 Game
 Encourage both teams to play
with 2 A’s and 2D’s so 2v2
situations can be exposed all
the time.
 Awareness, Acceleration and
Selfishness will be vital to get
success.
GKGK

Technical Curriculum – Turning
2 v 2 Attacking (3)
 A’s receive the ball from the GK
and aim to score in the
opposing goal.
 D’s aim to stop them and
cannot go out of their zones,
the D off the pitch is allowed to
enter when A has had his first
touch.
 The smallest zone is a safe zone
for the A’s where they cannot
be tackled.
 A’s receive the ball off the
servers and aim to score.
dribble the ball over the end
line past the servers who can
tackle them.
 If servers regain possession
they play to strikers again and
the practice continues until the
play breaks down or a goal is
scored.
 6v6 game, 3v2 in end zones, 1
v1 in middle zone.
 The aim is to play through
midfield into the strikers who
aim to score.
and the midfielders are
unopposed to start and cannot
only block passes.
GKGK
GKGK
GK

Technical Curriculum – Turning
Technical Learning outcome: Turning – The ability to change direction with the ball in order
to change the point or angle of attack.
Tactical Learning outcome: How / When – The ability to use the correct turning technique
at the correct time depending on what third of the pitch the players are in.
Physiological Learning outcome: Agility – The ability of the player to move their body
efficiently and effectively to perform the correct turning technique at the correct time.
Psychological Learning outcome: Confidence – Players must have confidence to perform
turns in different thirds of the field when appropriate.
Learning outcome: To increase the player’s ability to change direction with the ball in order
to change the point of attack or angle of attack within the game. The players should have
confidence to perform the correct turn in each third of the pitch and must have a good level
of agility so they can perform the turns efficiently.
Technical
Ball Control
Variety of Techniques
Change of pace (Acceleration)
Disguise
Tactical
Awareness (When and Where)
Timing
Cleverness
Physiological
Balance
Co-ordination
Speed
Agility
Confidence
Innovative
Decision Making
Communication

EXEMPLAR SESSIONS
Turning (1)
 Players perform the turning
circuit aiming to master a range
of different turns.
mastered have players race
against each other while
performing the circuit.
 D’s play to A’s and A’s have
possession in a 1v1 duel.
 A’s aim to lose D’s by turning
and dribble through the two
cones with the ball under full
control.
 D’s cannot tackle A’s and
provide only passive pressure
aiming to race A’s to which ever
set of cones they choose to
attack.
 4v4, 4 Goal Game,
 Encourage players to turn and
attack the free goal in order to
score.
 How / When, Agility and
Confidence will be essential to
be successful at this game.
GK
GK
Technical: Turning Tactical: How / When
Physiological: Agility Psychological: Confidence

Turning (2)
perform a range of turns on the
coach’s command.
mastered increase the pace of
the turns.
 A’s aim to dribble through as
many free gates as possible in a
set amount of time.
 If the gate they approach is
blocked they must perform a
turn and find a free gate.
 D’s aim to block gates however
cannot tackle; D’s can only stay
at the same gate for three
seconds maximum.
 4v4 Game.
 When in possession players
must look to turn away from
defenders and to switch the
point of attack.
GK
GK

Turning (3)
 A’s have a ball each and turn at
each cone, D’s move from cone
to cone and provide passive
pressure to the A’s.
mastered allow the D’s to move
up the line towards the A’s and
pinch the ball.
 A’s aim to dribble through as
many free gates as possible in a
set amount of time whilst
avoiding D’s.
 if the gate they approach is
blocked they must perform a
turn and find a free gate.
 Some D’s aim to block gates
whilst others can tackle the A’s,
D’s can only stay at the same
gate for three seconds
maximum.
 4v4, 4 Goal Game, players can
score in any goal apart from the
previous goal they have just
scored in.
 Encourage players to turn away
from the defenders towards a
free goal.
GKGK

Technical Curriculum – Passing
Technical Learning Objective: Passing - The ability to play the ball accurately to the desired
target.
Tactical Learning Objective: Who / when – The ability to pass the ball efficiently making
good decisions of who to pass to and when to pass, depending on what third of the pitch
they are in.
Physiological Learning Objective: Co-ordination – This is essential so that players can pass
efficiently in a controlled manner while on the move and from stationary positions.
Psychological Learning Objective: Selection - Players must be able to select the correct
type of pass at the correct time depending on what third of the pitch they are in.
Learning outcome: To increase the player’s ability to play the ball to the desired target
within the game. Players should select who to pass to at the correct time, in relation to what
third of the pitch they are in. Co-ordination is essential so that players can pass efficiently in
a controlled manner while on the move and from stationary positions.
.
EXEMPLAR SESSIONS
Technical
Receiving/Ball Control (First Touch)
Accuracy
Weight and Pace
Disguise
Timing
Tactical
Awareness (Space/Opponents/Teammates)
Pass Selection
Movement of Players
Combination/Quick Play
Timing
Physiological
Co-ordination
Strength
Balance
Flexibility
Decision Making (Pass Selection)
Confidence
Communication
Team work

Passing (1)
 Players work in pairs passing
the ball in between the cones
using a variety of passing
techniques (ground/lofted).
mastered give players a set
time to achieve a certain
amount of passes.
 Distance and angle of cones can
also be altered.
Technical: Passing Tactical: Who / When
Physiological: Co-ordination Psychological: Selection
 A’s work in pairs and aim to
make as many passes as
possible through the gates.
 D’s aim to win as many balls as
possible in a set time.
 Two A’s with most successful
passes win.
 4v4 game, players must pass
the ball into the GK’s in the end
zone.
 Once they do this successfully
they keep possession and aim
to play into the other GK. To
keep possession however they
may play back to the previous
GK until a forward pass is on.
 To progress condition players
so that they cannot play back to
the same GK twice in the same
pattern of play.
GK GK

Passing (2)
Passing (3)Technical: Passing Tactical: Who / When
 A’s keep the ball away from D
for as long as possible.
 When D touches the ball the A
who lost possession becomes
the D.
 Condition A’s to one / two
touch if necessary.
 A’s have to penetrate the
middle zone and pass to the A’s
on the opposite side.
 D’s have to block passes, one D
can come out of the middle
zone to defend.
 Condition A’s to one/ two touch
if necessary.
 4v4 Game, where players must
select the correct pass
depending on what area of the
field they are in order to be
successful.
GKGK

[;apl
Technical: Passing Tactical: Who / When
 A’s keep the ball away from the
D and transfer the ball to the
next box.
 D’s aim to win the ball in their
box, always starting from the
middle cone, one D works two
boxes.
 One A from each grid follows
the ball into the grid for a 3v1.
 The aim is to keep possession
and play passes, to do this
target players maybe used.
 Condition target players to
one/two touch if necessary.
 To progress do not allow
players to play back to the
target player, allow players to
play forward passes only.
 4v4 Game, thirds game.
 In order for the goal to be
scored a player must receive
the ball in the final third and
play a pass to a teammate.
GKGK

Technical Curriculum – Receiving Priorities &
Ball Control
Technical Learning objective: Receiving - The ability to control the ball with different
surfaces of the body when given possession from a team-mate.
Tactical Learning objective: Movement – Understanding how to move in order to receive
the ball (including body angle) in all thirds of the pitch.
Physiological Learning objective: Strength – The ability to secure (retain) the ball when
challenged by defenders.
Psychological Learning objective: Courage – Courage to receive the ball at all times even if
under pressure.
Receiving priorities: Beyond opponent; In front and facing opponent; In front with back to
opponent;
Learning outcome: To increase the player’s ability to control the ball using appropriate
receiving techniques when given possession from a team-mate within the game. The players
should have courage to get on the ball at all times and should move to get on the ball in all
thirds of the pitch, when challenged by defenders strength is essential to receive
successfully.
Technical
Ball Control
Variety of Techniques (surfaces)
Execution of the technique
Travel; Protect; Kill
Tactical
Awareness (When and Where)
Timing (create space as an individual)
Cleverness
Movement
Physiological
Balance
Strength
Confidence
Innovative
Decision Making
Communication

EXEMPLAR SESSIONS
Receiving (1)
 Players work in pairs moving
around the area, 1 the server
and 1 the receiver.
 The aim is for players to be
efficient at receiving the ball at
pace with a range of surfaces
when the ball is on the ground
and in the air.
 Split players up into Receivers,
Servers and Defenders.
 R’s aim to receive passes off the
S’s, the 2 D’s aim to win the
ball.
 R’s receiving technique will
depend on the type of serve
and how tight the defender is.
GKGK
 4v4 Game.
 Encourage players to receive
the ball at all times developing
movement, strength and
courage.
Technical: Receiving Tactical: Movement
Physiological: Strength Psychological: Courage

Receiving (2)
Receiving (3)
 Players pass the ball around the
grid and work a range of
different receiving skills i.e. in
front and behind the defender.
 If receiving technique has been
mastered from a still position
have players receive the ball on
the move at pace.
 2v2 possession game, blues
keep the ball in one direction
and reds the other direction.
 To start with allow players to
pass the ball backwards to keep
possession.
 When this has been mastered
allow only forward passes to
test receiving skills when
attacking.
GKGK
 6v6 thirds game, 2v1 in end
zones, 3v3 in middle zone.
 Players aim to receive the ball
on the half turn and play
forward passes into the next
third leading to a finish in the
final third.
 Players should be encouraged
to receive the ball at all times.

Technical Curriculum – Individual Defending
 Players in the middle take turns
to receive and defend, the roles
keep rotating after every serve.
 Receivers must try and escape
the man markers who provide
passive pressure.
 Work both ground and Arial
receiving skills.
 6v6 thirds Game, players must
transfer the ball through the
thirds to the attacker in the end
zone.
 A player from the middle third
can go and support the attack
or drop into defending third to
receive the ball.
 The game can be played as
handball in the defending and
midfield third to begin.
 5v5 Game, 3v2 in each half in
favour of D’s.
 Movement, Strength and
Courage should be worked in
both halves when in possession.
GKGK
GK
GK

Technical Curriculum – Defending
Simple Defending Principles:
 Deny
 Restrict
 Predict
SPACE
The following topics will develop players defending skills in the different thirds of the pitch
based on the playing philosophy of the Academy:
 Attacking Third – To recover possession as early as possible, by full pressing, team
compactness and intelligent support thus disrupting the opponents build up play.
 Midfield Third – To control and direct the opponents possession in to areas of the
pitch that allow for a full recovery of possession.
 Defending Third – To minimise all goal scoring opportunities for the opposition. If
the opportunity to recover the ball quickly is denied, the team will organize a
compact defence and when possession is recovered, defensive safety and counter
attacking should be a priority.

Technical Curriculum – Individual Defending
Technical Learning Objective: Tackling – The ability to win the ball from an opponent.
Tactical Learning Objective: Timing – Effective timing to challenge for the ball when tackling
an opponent.
Physiological Learning Objective: Core Strength – Use of the body to effectively take the
ball from the opponent.
Psychological Learning Objective: Desire – Players must have the optimum amount of
desire in order to tackle successfully.
Learning outcome: To increase the ability of players to win the ball from an opponent within
the game of football. In order to tackle (win) successfully, players must be able to time their
tackle correctly and have an optimum level of desire. If body contact is made during tackling
then players must have good core strength in order to remain on their feet.
.
Technical
Tackling
Individual defending technique
Start position in relation to:
Area of the pitch, ball, goal, team-mates,
opponents and pressure on the ball.
Intercept: Spoil: Delay
Tactical
Timing
Awareness (PRESS / DROP)
Reduce opposition options
Compactness
Cover players/space
Physiological
Balance
Strength
Desire
Confidence
Courage
Decision Making
Communication

EXEMPLAR SESSIONS
Individual Defending (Tackling 1)
s
keep it away from the D’s for as
long as possible.
 D’s aim to tackle A’s and enter
the area every thirty seconds
until all four are tackling.
 A’s aim to dribble up and down
the area past the D’s.
 D’s aim to tackle the A’s when
they enter their zone; D’s
cannot leave their zone.
 4v4 Game, thirds game, 3v1 in
the end zone.
 The aim for the A’s is for one of
them to break free into the
middle zone and either play the
ball into the striker or shoot at
the goal.
 1 D aims to stop the A’s
breaking out into the middle
zone if possible, if this cannot
be achieved then the remaining
D’s must decide when to tackle.
Technical: Tackling Tactical: Timing
Physiological: Core Strength Psychological: Desire
GKGK

s
 Players pair up with a ball
between two, one starts as the
A and one the D.
 The aim is for the D to see how
many times he can tackle the A
successfully in a given time
period, A has to avoid D.
 Reverse the roles after every
set time period.
 4v4 Game
 Encourage players to make
clean tackles at the correct
time.
 D’s occupy the middle area and
face the two A’s at the goal
opposite them (2 A’s per D).
 A’s have to score as many goals
as they can in a set amount of
time in the goal opposite.
 D’s stop as many goals as
possible; the group of D’s who
concede the least goals win.
GKGK
GK
GK

s
Technical Curriculum – 1v1 Defending
 D’s occupy a square and cannot
leave the square, A’s aim to
dribble into the square and out
the other side without being
tackled.
 The group of D’s who make the
most tackles in a set amount of
time are the winners.
 D’s occupy a zone which they
cannot leave and must tackle
A’s who enter their zone.
 Two A’s from the same goal
have a ball each and aim to
dribble past the D’s and score in
the opposite goal.
 The group of D’s who concede
the least goals win. To progress
have one ball between two A’s.
 4v4 half game, 2v2 in each half.
 To progress allow a D to enter
the attacking half when in
possession to create a 3v2.
 This will test the D’s in
defending when outnumbered.
GKGK
GKGK

Technical Curriculum – 1 v 1 Defending
Technical Learning objective: 1v1 Defending – The ability of a defender to nullify the threat
of an attacker.
Tactical Learning objective: Angle / Distance – Effective defending by using the correct
angle and distance of approach in relation to which third of the pitch the attacker is in.
Physiological Learning objective: Deceleration – The ability to reduce speed at the correct
angle and distance to the attacker.
Psychological Learning objective: Patience – Players must have good levels of patience so
that they are difficult to beat in 1v1 situations.
Learning outcome: To increase the ability of players to nullify the threat of attackers within
the game. The players must be patient and have good levels of deceleration so that they are
difficult to beat in 1v1 situations. The angle and distance of approach from players must be
correct and will depend on what third of the pitch the attackers are in.
Technical
Tackling 1 v 1 Defending
Tactical
Angle/Distance
Timing
Compactness
Cover players/space
Physiological
Balance
Strength
Deceleration
Desire
Patience
Courage
Decision Making
Communication

EXEMPLAR SESSIONS
1 v 1 Defending (1)
Technical: 1 v 1 defending Tactical: Angle / Distance
Physiological: Deceleration Psychological: Patience
 D’s play the ball into A’s, then
defend them in a 1v1 duel.
 D’s have to stay as close t o A’s
as possible and A’s have to try
and get away from D’s.
 As a progression gates may be
added for A’s to dribble
through and D’s to defend.
 D’s aim to stop A’s from scoring
in the goal and if they gain
possession they aim to dribble
to the single cone next to the
server.
 Progress the practice where A’s
receive from a variety of angles
and vary D’s start position if
necessary.
 4v4 Square Game.
 A’s and D’s have their own
squares which they cannot
leave.
 Encourage responsibility of 1v1
defending in each zone
highlighting angle / distance of
approach, the ability to
decelerate and patience.
GK GK
GK GK

1 v 1 Defending (2)
Awareness
Acceleration
C
 D plays the ball into A and then
aims to stop A from dribbling
the ball between the two
cones.
 Keep rotating the roles of the
players.
 The gap between the two cones
maybe altered depending on
the ability of the players.
 The coach plays the ball into A
and D then becomes live aiming
to stop A from scoring.
 If D wins the ball he can score in
the opposite goal.
 4v4 Game.
 Encourage players to take
responsibility when defending
the opposition.
 If necessary add a man for man
condition were players can only
tackle a partner. This will
highlight the importance of
angle / distance, deceleration
and patience in 1v1 defending.
GKGK
GK
GK

1v1 Defending (3)
s
 D aims to stop A from turning
and dribbling the ball through
the two cones behind him, after
A has received the ball from the
server.
 If D wins the ball he aims to
dribble the ball in-between
either set of cones next to the
server.
 Servers transfer the ball into
the A who aims to score.
 D aims to stop A from scoring in
the goal.
 If D wins possession he aims to
dribble the ball into the central
zone.
 4v4 Zone Game, 2v2 in the
middle zone, 1v1 in end zone
players cannot leave their
zones.
 Encourage responsibility of 1v1
defending in all three zones,
emphasising angle / distance of
approach the ability to
decelerate and patience.
GK GK
GK
GK

Technical Curriculum – 2 v 2 Defending
Technical Learning Objective: 2 v 2 Defending – The ability of two defenders to nullify the
threat of two attackers.
Tactical Learning Objective: Angle / Distance –Effective defending by using angle distance
of approach in relation to attackers and the position of teammate.
Physiological Learning Objective: Deceleration – The ability to reduce speed at the correct
angle and distance to the attacker and teammate.
Psychological Learning Objective: Patience – Players must have good levels of patience so
that they are difficult to beat.
Learning outcome: To increase the ability of two defenders to nullify the threat of two
attackers within the game. The players must be patient and have good levels of deceleration
so that they are difficult to beat in 2 v 2 situations. The angle and distance of approach from
players must be correct and will depend on what third of the pitch the attackers are in and
the position of their teammate. Communication is a vital aspect of defending as a unit.
Technical
Tackling 2 v 2 Defending
Tactical
Angle/Distance
Timing
Compactness
Cover players/space
Physiological
Balance
Strength
Deceleration
Desire
Patience
Courage
Decision Making
Communication

EXEMPLAR SESSIONS
2v2 Defending (1)
 2 D’s play to 2 A’s and then aim
to stop the 2 A’s from running
the ball between the two cones
behind them.
 If D’s win the ball they attack
the other set of cones.
 Cones can be moved to work on
showing inside /outside.
 The coach serves the ball to the
2 A’s and a 2 D’s defend.
 D’s aim to stop A’s scoring in
the goal and if they win
possession score in the
opposing goal.
 Goals can be moved to work
showing inside / outside.
C
GK
GK
 4v4, 2v2 in each zone, D’s aim
to stop goals and play into the
strikers feet when in
possession.
 When Gk has possession the
ball may go straight into the
other half.
GK
GK

2 v 2 Defending (2)
 2D’s play the ball to 2A’s and
then aim to stop them dribble
the ball in-between the two
cones to the side of them.
dribble the ball through the set
of cones at the side of the A’s.
 As a progression allow the A’s
to pass the ball between the
two cones.
 2 D’s play the ball to the 2 A’s
and then aim to stop them
scoring in either of the two
goals.
score in the other set of goals.
 4v4 Game set both teams up
with 2 defenders and 2
attackers to expose 2v2
situations.
 Encourage players to work
together in order to stop goals.GKGK

2 v 2 Defending (3)
 Servers transfer the ball to A’s
and D’s aim to stop A’s from
scoring.
 If D’s gain possession they aim
dribble the ball past the servers
in-between the two cones.
 To progress allow the A’s and
servers to defend once they
have lost possession and allow
free play until the play breaks
down.
 6v6 game, 3v2 in end zones, 1
v1 in middle zone.
 To begin players cannot leave
their zones and the ball may
travel from defending third to
attacking third without the
midfielder touching the ball.
 To progress allow the two
midfield players to enter each
other’s zone to tackle.
GKGK
GKGK
 4v2 in favour of A’s, A’s receive
the ball off the servers and aim
to score.
dribble the ball into the middle
zone past the servers who can
tackle them.
 If servers regain possession
they play to strikers again,
allow free play until the play
breaks down.


Technical Curriculum – Intercepting
Technical Learning objective: Intercepting - The ability to cut out a pass from an opponent.
Tactical Learning objective: Anticipation – The ability to read the play and anticipate the
opposition movements in order to intercept successfully.
Physiological Learning objective: Mobility - The ability to move and intercept the ball in a
variety of situations.
Psychological Learning objective: Self control – Players must be able to control emotions,
behaviour and desires to intercept successfully.
Learning outcome: To increase the ability of players to intercept (cut-out) passes from
opponents within the game. The Players should have a good level of self control in order to
stay focused and intercept successfully. Mobility and Anticipation are also essential in order
that players can react to situations and cut out passes from the opposition.
Technical
Intercepting
Tactical
Anticipation
Awareness
Cover and Support
Physiological
Mobility
Acceleration
Power/strength
Self Control
Concentration
Decision making
Courage

EXEMPLAR SESSIONS
Intercepting (1)
Technical: Intercepting Tactical: Anticipation
Physiological: Mobility Psychological: Self Control
 A’s aim to pass the ball across
the middle zone past the D’s.
 D aim to intercept the passes
and if they gain possession
score in the goals. No player
can leave their square to begin.
 To progress allow D’s to enter
the two attackers squares in
line with their square.
 A’s work in pairs and aim to
pass the ball from one end of
the grid to the other avoiding
the D’s.
 D’s cannot leave their zones
and aim to intercept as many
passes as possible.
 To progress add goals on the
outside for D’s to score in if
they gain possession of the ball.
 5v5 Zone game, 2v2 in end
zones, 1v1 in middle zone.
and aim to win the ball via an
interception.
GKGK

Intercepting (2)
 4v1 keep ball, A’s on outside of
the grid.
 D’s aim to intercept passes
made by A’s.
 Change D’s after a set amount
of time.
 4v4 Game.
 Players must have anticipation,
mobility and self control in
order to intercept successfully
in all thirds of the pitch.
 D aims to intercept the ball as
A’s try to play across the middle
zone.
 If D wins possession he can
score in the goals.
 To begin with players can only
go in their three squares.
GK GK

Intercepting (3)
 A’s aim to make as many passes
as possible in a set amount of
time with 2 balls between
them.
 D’s aim to intercept passes and
score as many goals as possible
in a set amount of time.
 Two D’s work at the same time.
 A’s keep possession and aim to
penetrate the middle area.
 D’s aim to stop the A’s
transferring the ball across the
middle area via intercepting.
 One D can go into the end zone
to intercept, if D’s regain
possession they have a shot at
goal.
 4v4 zone game, 3v3 in central
area, unopposed 1 touch finish
in end zone.
 One team has to make 5 passes
before they score. The other
team aims to intercept the ball
and play to the striker who
must score with one touch.
 Rotate teams over after a set
amount of time.
GKGK
GKGK

Technical Curriculum – Positioning
Technical Learning objective: Positioning – The ability to defend in the correct position in
each third of the pitch.
Tactical Learning objective: Movement – The ability to move into the correct position
depending on what third of the pitch the ball, players and teammates are in.
Physiological Learning objective: Speed – The ability to accelerate and get into position
quickly.
Psychological Learning objective: Concentration – Players must have high levels of
concentration so that positioning is always correct.
Learning outcome: To increase the ability of the players to be in the correct positional place
in each third of the pitch within the game. The players should maintain concentration so
that the positioning remains correct at all times. The players must have good movement and
speed so that they are able to get into the correct position at the correct time.
Technical
Positioning
Tactical
Movement
Anticipation
Awareness
Cover and Support
Physiological
Mobility
Speed/Acceleration
Power/strength
Self Control
Concentration
Decision making
Courage
Role & Responsibility

EXEMPLAR SESSIONS
Positioning (1)
s
 To start number the cones 1, 2
and 3. On the coaches
command players have to race
to these cones.
 To progress the coach to a cone
and the defenders must get
into the correct marking
position as quick as possible.
 The cones act as attackers if
mannequins are not available.
 Servers in the middle zone
transfer the ball across the area
before playing to the A in the
final third who aims to score.
 D’s must make sure they are in
a correct marking position and
stop goals.
 4v4 Game.
 Good positioning when the
transition from having
possession to losing possession
takes place is essential.
GKGK
GK GK
Technical: Positioning Tactical: Movement
Physiological: Speed Psychological: Concentration

Positioning (2)
s
 A’s transfer the ball to each
other from cone to cone to
start.
 D’s must then get into position
depending who is in possession
of the ball.
 To progress A’s have to pass to
the A’s opposite and D’s have
to stop them playing through.
 D’s have to stop A’s receiving
the ball off the GK and playing
to the A in the attacking half.
score.
 If all A’s are marked up then GK
may play straight into A in the
attacking half.
 6v6 game, 3v3 in each half.
 To progress 1 player from the
team who are attacking may go
into the other half to create a
4v3 overload.
 This leaves a 3v2 overload in
the other half so positioning in
both halves has to be excellent
to stop goals when overloaded.
GKGK
GKGK

Positioning (3)
s
 Each cone is given a number 1,
2, 3 or 4. The coach shouts out
a number and players must get
into a correct marking position
as if this number had
possession.
 Change positions of players so
they understand the positioning
requirements in each position.
 3 D’s aim to defend the 4 goals,
if they win possession they
score in the two goals at the
side.
 A’s aim to score in any of the
four goals in front of them and
cannot leave their zone. Only
one D can be in a zone at one
time.
 To progress increase the
overload to 4 attackers v 2
defenders.
 5v3 in favour of A’s in each half
two games played
simultaneously.
 D’s aim to stop goals and if they
win possession they dribble the
ball into the middle zone.
GKGK

Technical Curriculum – Pressin
Technical Curriculum – Pressing
Technical Learning objective: Pressing – High intensity defending where the opposition are
put under pressure.
Tactical Learning objective: Awareness – Understanding the correct time to press in
relation to the ball and player movements.
Physiological Learning objective: Endurance –The ability to press the ball for continued and
prolonged periods.
Psychological Learning objective: Aggression – This must be at the correct level for each
different pressing situation in each third of the pitch.
Learning outcome: To increase the ability of the players to defend at a high intensity by
putting opponents under pressure within the game. The players should adopt a correct level
of aggression for each differing pressuring situation in each third of the pitch. The players
must have a good level of endurance in order for pressing to be maintained throughout the
game.
Technical
Pressing
Positioning
Tactical
Awareness
Movement
Anticipation
Cover and Support
Physiological
Endurance
Mobility
Speed/Acceleration/Deceleration
Power/strength
Aggression/Self Control
Concentration
Decision making
Courage
Role & Responsibility

EXEMPLAR SESSIONS
Pressing (1)
 A’s have a ball each and dribble
around the area aiming to keep
the ball.
 D’s aim to press the ball and
enter at intervals so eventually
all four are pressing.
 Three A’s aim to keep the ball.
 D’s enter from the side at
intervals until all D’s are
pressing. If D’s gain possession
they aim to transfer the ball to
the A’s in the opposite box (if
not possible coach serves in a
ball to other grid once play has
broken down).
 D’s from other side then press
the ball and the practice
continues.
 4v3 Overload Game, players on
both teams are numbered 1 to
4.
 The coach shouts out a number
i.e. Blue 4 who then runs
around the pitch before coming
back on leaving a 4v3 overload
in advantage of the red team.
 This should test the awareness,
endurance and aggression of
both teams.
Technical: Pressing Tactical: Awareness
Physiological: Endurance Psychological: Aggression

Pressing (2)
s
 A’s have a ball between two
and aim to pass the ball keeping
it away from the D’s.
 D’s aim to press the ball and
enter at intervals so that
eventually all four are pressing.
 D’s are numbered 1 to 6 and
enter the pitch at intervals on
the coach’s command until all 6
are pressing.
score in the goal opposite to
the A’s.
 To start the situation will be 6
A’s against 1 D, A’s must score
as quickly as they can.
 5v5 half game, 3v2 in each half.
 Encourage players to have
awareness, endurance and
aggression in both the attacking
and defending half of the pitch
to defend successfully.
GK GK
GK GK

Pressing (3)
ss
 The server plays the ball to the
A. The A then has to dribble the
ball past the 2 D’s and between
the two cones.
 The 2 D’s aim to stop the A
from dribbling the ball between
the two cones. If the 2 D’s win
the ball they aim to dribble to
the single cone.
 To progress make the practice
2v2.
 A’s aim to keep possession for
as long as possible. D’s press
the ball and if they gain
possession score in any goal.
 Introduce D’s at intervals until
all 4 D’s are pressing the ball.
 1 point is scored for touching
the ball and 2 points for a goal.
 4v4 game.
 Awareness, endurance and
aggression are highlighted in
attacking, midfield and
defensive thirds of the pitch.
GK
GK
GK GK

Technical Curriculum – Unit Attacking
The following topics will develop player’s ability to play effectively as an attacking unit in the
different thirds of the pitch based on the playing philosophy of the Academy and the Club:
 Defending Third – To play safe possession if quick attacking play is denied, always
looking to create opportunities for penetration of the opposition in to the midfield
and attacking thirds of the pitch.
 Midfield Third – To keep possession of the ball if counter attacking opportunities are
denied. Possession must be intelligent with support and movement off the ball, to
create opportunities to penetrate the opposition defence, creating goal scoring
opportunities.
combined movements with the ball.

Technical Curriculum – Unit Attacking
Technical Learning objective: Unit Attacking – The ability of the attacking unit to beat the
opposing defenders in order to score goals.
Tactical Learning objective: Awareness – Understanding where the opposing defenders and
team mates are in order to attack successfully.
Physiological Learning objective: Acceleration- The ability of the unit to attack quickly when
appropriate to do so.
Psychological Learning objective: Selfishness – Adopt an optimum level of selfishness in
order to succeed as an attacking unit.
Learning outcome: To increase the ability of the attacking unit to beat the opposing
defenders and score goals within the game. Players must have an awareness of where the
opposing defenders and teammates are and have an optimum level of selfishness when
carrying out the attacking plan. Acceleration is essential so that the unit can attack quickly
when appropriate to do so.

Counter attacking
(Defending 1/3)
 Quick decision on transition of gaining possession
 Forward movement and support
 Forward passing to feet / space
 Security in defence

Patient build up play
(Defending 1/3)
 Maintain possession of ball
 Movement to receive
 Forward / side / backwards passes to work openings

Counter attacking
(Midfield third)
 Quick decision on transition of gaining possession

Lines of Penetration
(Midfield third)
 Quick passing
 Switching play
 Movement to receive in-between lines

Individual and combination play
(Attacking third)
 Midfield distribution
 Strikers movement to receive
 1v1 skills
 Forward runs with and without the ball

Crossing and Finishing
(Attacking third)
 Midfield distribution / balance to avoid counter
attack
 Winger / fullback link up
 Type of cross
 Strikers movement / quality of finish

Technical Curriculum – Team Attacking
The following topics will develop player’s ability to play effectively as an attacking team in
the different thirds of the pitch based on the playing philosophy of the Academy:
 Defending Third – To play safe possession if quick attacking play is denied, always
looking to create opportunities for penetration of the opposition in to the midfield
and attacking thirds of the pitch.
 Midfield Third – To keep possession of the ball if counter attacking opportunities are
denied. Possession must be intelligent with support and movement off the ball, to
create opportunities to penetrate the opposition defence, creating goal scoring
opportunities.
combined movements with the ball.

Technical Curriculum – Team Attacking
Technical Learning objective: Team Attacking – The ability of the attacking team to beat the
opposing team in order to score goals.
Tactical Learning objective: Awareness – Understanding where the opposing defenders and
team mates are in order to attack successfully.
Physiological Learning objective: Acceleration - The ability of the team to attack quickly
when appropriate to do so.
Psychological Learning objective: Selfishness – Adopt an optimum level of selfishness in
order to succeed as an attacking team.
Learning outcome: To increase the ability of the attacking team to beat the opposition
team and score goals within the game. Players must have an awareness of where the
opposing defenders and as well as teammates and have an optimum level of selfishness
when carrying out the attacking plan. Acceleration is essential so that the team can attack
quickly with pace when appropriate to do so.

Counter attacking
(Defending third)
 Quick decision on transition when gaining and regaining possession

Patient build up play
(Defending third)
 Maintain possession of the ball (take care of it)
 Movement and body-shape to receive the ball
 Forward / side / backwards passes to work openings and penetrate the
oppositions lines of defence

Counter attacking
(Midfield third)
 Quick decision on transition of gaining or regaining possession

Lines of Penetration
(Midfield third)
 Quick Play (passing the ball at pace)
 Switching play
 Movement to receive in-between lines

Individual and combination play
(Attacking third)
 Midfield distribution
 Strikers movement to receive
 1 v 1 skills
 Forward runs with and without the ball

Crossing and Finishing
(Attacking third)
 Midfield distribution / balance to avoid counter attack
 Wide players / fullbacks link up
 Type and variation of crosses
 Strikers movement / timing / quality of finish

Technical Curriculum – Unit Defending
The following topics will develop player’s ability to defend effectively as unit in the different
thirds of the pitch based on the playing philosophy of the Academy:

Technical Curriculum – Unit Defending
Technical Learning objective: Unit Defending – The ability of a defensive unit to nullify the
threat of the attacking team.
angle and distance of approach to form an effective defensive unit.
angle and distance to the attackers and team mates.
that they are difficult to beat as a unit.
Learning outcome: To increase the ability of the unit to nullify the threat of the attacking
team within the game. The players should have a good level of patience and be able to
decelerate to defend successfully as a unit. The angle and distance of support/approach
from players must be correct and will depend on what third of the pitch the attackers are in
and the position of their team-mates in the unit.

Full pressing and support
(Attacking third)
 Attitude to press
 Press as a team not as individuals
 Support players be ready to press

Recovery back into shape
(Attacking third)
 Keep play in front if possible
 Don’t be easily played round
 Deny counter attack / Delay the attack

Directing (Forcing Play) opponents into areas
(Midfield third)
 Man nearest the ball will lead the direction
 Supporting players be ready to react
 Inside / outside (team plan)
 Manage the situation if opposition go into another area

Screening and blocking through balls
(Midfield third)
 First player adds pressure and the others screen
 Slide together to keep good distances
 Distance between players in the individual unit
 Distance between units

Team compactness
(Defending third)
 Stay compact and narrow / no through balls
 Show outside
 Concentration
 Communication

Denying goal scoring opportunities
(Defending third)
s
 Desire and courage to block shots / tackle
 Don’t over commit
 When to press / when to maintain position
 Track runners / play offside
 Communication
 Gk position

Technical Curriculum – Team Defending
The following topics will develop player’s ability to defend effectively as team in the
different thirds of the pitch based on the playing philosophy of the Academy:

Technical Curriculum – Team Defending
Technical Learning objective: Team Defending – The ability of the defending team to nullify
the threat of the attacking team.
angle and distance of approach to form an effective defensive team shape.
angle and distance to the attackers and team mates.
that they are difficult to beat as a team.
Learning outcome: To increase the ability of the team to nullify the threat of the attacking
team within the game. The players should have a good level of patience and be able to
decelerate to defend successfully as a team. The angle and distance of approach from
players must be correct and will depend on what third of the pitch the attackers are in and
the position of their teammates.

Full pressing and support
(Attacking third)
 Attitude to press (switched on)
 Press as a team not as individuals
 Support players be ready to press

Directing (forcing play) opponents into areas
(Midfield third)
 Man nearest the ball will lead the direction
 Supporting players be ready to react
 Inside / outside (team plan)
 Manage the situation if opposition go into another area

Screening and blocking through balls
(Midfield third)
Slide together to keep good distances
 First player adds pressure and the others screen
 Slide together to keep good distances
 Distance between players in individual units

Team compactness
(Defending third)
 Stay compact / narrow / no through balls
 Show outside
 Concentration
 Communication

Denying goal scoring opportunities
(Defending third)
s
 Desire and courage to block shots / tackle
 Don’t over commit
 When to press / when to maintain position
 Track runners/ play offside
 Communication
 Gk position

Technical Curriculum – Position specific
The following topics will include a position specific practice in order to aid the transition into
senior football. The practices will focus on tactical and technical requirements for each
position aiming to develop specific movements and competencies.
Position Specific- Wide (back) Defenders
Tactical
 Positioning and repositioning
 Timing
 Involvement in attacking play
 Versatility in attack
Technical
 Defensive technique
 Tackling
 Receiving and passing qualities
 Running with the ball / dribbling

Position Specific - Central Defender
Tactical
 Anticipation
 Positioning
 Marking
 Covering and Support play
Technical
 Interception
 Safe control of the ball
 Heading
 Long and short passing

Position Specific – Midfield Players
Tactical
 Positioning and repositioning
 Anticipation
 Pressing
 Holding space
Technical
 Defensive technique
 Receiving and passing qualities
 Running with the ball

Position Specific – Wide Attacker
Tactical
 Involvement in attack
 Covering and holding shape
 Anticipation
 Pressing
 Winning 1v1 duels
Technical
 Running with the ball
 Dribbling
 Crossing
 Shooting

Position Specific- Forward Players / Strikers
Tactical
 Constant movement
 Rotating positions
 Making space for self and others
 Timing
Technical
 Shooting
 Control to retain
 Control to attack
 Dribbling
 Heading

OLDHAM ATHLETIC FC
Position Specific
WIDE (BACK) DEFENDERS
Essentials / Necessities
 Able to defend in 1 v 1 and 2 v 2.
 Can “smell” danger.
 A range of passing – channel, diagonal, behind
 Crossing ability on the move at ¾ pace.
 Ability to over and under lap.
 Play “wall-passes” on the move.
 Finish 1 and 2 touch
WIDE (BACK) DEFENDERS - Skills required:
Defensive Skills:
 Understand the priorities of defending and the concepts of defensive safety and risk.
 Can read and predict the play and are then decisive when making decisions.
 Are able to defend in 1 v 1 situations from static and fluent circumstances e.g. Counter
attacks.
 Understand the priorities in individual defending circumstances e.g. Intercept, spoil etc
 Can defend with composure and accuracy.
 Have explosive speed over 5 – 15 metres.
 Have “pace” and explosiveness in their general movement.
 Have “spring” if not height when competing in aerial challenges.
 Are mentally “adaptable” in a variety of defending circumstances.
 Defending skills in far-post and central defending locations eg heading and clearance
skills.
 Combined defending skills eg wall-passes ,overlaps ,take-overs etc
 Positioning, marking and all 1 v 1 defending skills – pressing, intercepting, challenging
for the ball, containing opponents, blocking passes, shots and crosses.

Attacking Skills:
 Passing range and capability over a variety of distances.
 Short range inter-passing and combination skills with others.
 Excellence in first touch – D – D – D . (distance-disguise-direction)
 Ability to run with the ball.
 Crossing and passing ability when moving outside and inside the opponents defensive
structure.
 Ability to combine play with others to attack the penalty box with or without the ball
e.g. wall-passes, 1 v 1 and link with others.
 Receive the ball and play in and from the defending third of the field.
 Run with the ball into MF and beyond with speed and control.
 Are able to combine play with MF players intelligently on entering the MF areas.
 Can deliver passes with either foot or any surface over a variety of distances with
deception and spin if necessary.
 Know how, and are able to, release appropriate passes into players located in MF
areas.
 Are able to provide forward placed players with appropriate passes behind and in
front of the defence.

OLDHAM ATHLETIC FC
Position Specific
CENTRAL DEFENDERS
PSYCHOLOGICAL ATTRIBUTES!
 Determination;
 Stoicism;
 Durability;
 Mental toughness;
 Resilience;
 Courage – mental and physical;
 Appetite for defending – a “love” of defending!
 Alertness; Awareness; Concentration; Belief; Composure (Switched On)!
CENTRAL DEFENDERS - Skills required
Defensive Skills:
 Reading, understanding and anticipating the development of play.
 Positioning accurately.
 Capability to accept changes of responsibility and act accordingly.
 Accurate marking and tracking skills. Ability to intercept passes and crosses.
 Ability to screen passing options and block passes and crosses.
 Ability to “spoil” opponent’s possession and to contain when they are in possession.
 Ability to press and “show” opponents in various directions as required.
 Ability to defend alone on counter-attacks or in static circumstances.
 Ability to challenge for the ball and win possession.
 Ability and courage to block shots at goal
 Ability to support, and cover fellow defenders and spaces as required. Heading ability.
 1 touch intercept and “directing the ball” skills with feet, head and body
Attacking Skills:
 Ability to support others accurately - Reliable, assured and varied first touch.
 Ability to accurately pass the ball over a variety of distances.
 Ability to travel with the ball at varying speeds.
 Ability to perform a “safe trick” when necessary.
 Ability to disguise intent when receiving and releasing the ball.
 Ability to participate in combination play.- Ability to protect the ball if under pressure.

Oafc academy individual coaching programme and technical curiculum by simon cooper

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