Small-sided game: Playing out from the back

WHY USE IT

This part is where we add in the bigger-picture practices, allowing the players to be exposed to game realism, with positions and distances. Giving them “what ifs” exposes them to different pictures they may face on a matchday.

SET-UP

Mark out an area relative to the age and ability of your players. Divide the area into thirds, with a full-size goal at each end. Players are split into two teams.

HOW TO DO IT

Play a normal game but with the following rules at various points:

0-10 mins: Play off three touches in the defensive third.

10-20 mins: If played back into the defensive third, the next pass has to be forward into the middle or attacking thirds.

20-30 mins: Play off one and two touches throughout the pitch.

PROGRESSIONS

Introduce some ‘what ifs’ for players to problem-solve - what if the opposition play with two up-top? Or with three at the back?

COACHING POINTS

Goalkeeper: Awareness of pressure and space. Ability to receive and play off one and two touches, long and short passes.

Centre-back: Recognise pressure, when to step up and break a line with a dribble, or pass away from pressure. Receive with open hips and be aware of space and players. Be an option to receive.

Full-back: Recognise when to stretch the pitch and drop narrow to receive. Receive with open hips to play forward. Receive to break lines and drive forward. Awareness of space and players. Recognising when to change the picture.

Central midfielder: Awareness of space and the next pass early. Recognise when to stretch the pitch and drop in to receive. Short sharp movements to receive. Ability to receive on the half-turn, open hips and body to break lines. Be an option to receive.