I recently attended a coach education day, based around running position specific games-based training. While I am of the belief that foundation phase players should be experiencing each and every position, this viewpoint in building a conditioned/small sided game around a specific area of the pitch is one I will be taking forward in my planning.
My group was set with the task of developing a game where a Box-to-Box Midfielder would link defence with attack. The idea we came up with is this months featured practice.
In a day an age where "CDM's" and "CAM's" are the position of choice for many young players in midfield, the "BBM" has largely been forgotten. This game aims to change that.
The midfield player initially has no pressure in traveling with the ball into the final third. This gives them the technical repetition of running with the ball, as well as time to see what is developing in front of them. The session progresses to involve pressure in the middle third, followed by recovery runs from the defending midfielder, fully emphasising the "box-to-box" nature of the role.
Set Up
Set up a 45x30 playing area, split into thirds. Each team begins with 2 defenders, a striker, a midfielder and a wide player, who starts off to the side of the playing area.
The team in possession look to play out to their midfield player. The midfielder then travels with the ball into the final third, where they create a 3v2 against the opposition defenders. Repeat in the opposite direction.
Progression 1
The middle third now becomes 1 v 1
Progression 2
The wide player can support the midfield player middle third.
A recovery run is allowed into the defensive third for a 3 v 3
Coaching Points
Technical detail - running with the ball, 1st touch, receiving, finishing
Decision-making to combine, run with the ball
Angle and speed of supporting run into the final third
When to shoot, pass, dribble
Considerations
If defenders are confident enough, play 2 v 2 in defensive third
Allow Def to push into middle third when ball moves forward
Suggested Ages
U10-12