How to be a better footballer - player characteristics

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The FA have introduced a new initiative to identify young female athletes. who could or potentially play for England, that have not yet been identified through the England pathway system.  Discover My Talent are “looking for players who are eligible to represent England, our aim is to ensure we supply England teams with the quality, diversity and depth of players to enable England to win another major tournament. In pursuit of this ambition, we’re leaving no stone unturned when it comes to finding future talent across England” (englandfootball.com). 

This blog gives you a list of playing characteristics England are looking for in young people, so that you can develop your game to be a better footballer. 


1. Staying on the ball - Can you keep the ball close to your feet? Can you dribble and protect it in and around different areas of the pitch? 

2. Master the ball - Have you got great ball control? Are you creative and exciting on the ball? Can you take players on? Can you juggle with the ball? Can you move the ball using different parts of your foot, forward and backwards? Those little first touch movements are key for you to be able to master the ball. There are lots of little drills online that you can use to help develop this aspect of your game. 


3. Fast and agile - Are you quick in attack? But are you also quick and efficient at recovery runs? Can you defend as well as attack? Can you travel across the pitch quickly and change direction with and without the ball?  

 

4. Win the ball - Can you defend from the front. Can you go and get the ball off the oppositions toes? Are you willing to win the ball back quickly? Are you happy going in for a 50/50 challenge on the floor or in the air. 

 

When you're ready you too can get on the England Football pathway.  Work on these areas to help you become a better footballer 

 

 

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