Possession play

The session focuses on build-up play with forward passing through midfield using short and longer balls into the frontman. This is very useful in ensuring that players keep possession in midfield, whilst always having in their minds the need to play the ball forward and support.

In every game this scenario will come about. The result is breaking forward using possession to make a 2v1 scenario in an attacking position, so it’s extremely valuable if executed well.

What do I get the players to do?

Set up lines of attackers and defenders with a goal at each end.

The attacking team goalkeeper throws the ball out to a forward.

A player can run with the ball but must be looking to make a quick pass. All attacking players should support forward runs, always on the move, and looking to shake off nearby defenders.

Use short and long passing to get the ball forward to the frontman and any supporting midfielder so as to create an overload situation.Four wingers operate outside the playing area so as to give extra passes from wide.

Always end with a low shot.

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

This move relies primarily on passing techniques and, as an end product, the ability for the forward and supporting frontmen to hit the target with a low shot into the corner of the goal. But decision making is crucial to the whole process as well - players have to react so that their movement and support is neither too early nor too late.

How do I progress the session?

The simple way to progress this session is by limiting touches of the widemen to two. We might also alter the set-up by allowing defenders to roam anywhere, or instruct for the ball to go in and out of the midfield area three times before a goal is scored. To make this into a small-sided game, we use 8v8 or 9v9, limiting the number of touches allowed for the defending team so that we achieve regular turnovers.

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