The best strikers in the modern era are able to combine a vast array of skillsets. We've seen this play out in the CPL this season, with those able to combine this 'all in one' approach excelling to new heights this season. Terran Campbell and Myer Bevan have been the two that have set the league on fire the most, but Shaan Hundal has also enjoyed a promising start to the season up front through being more than just a 'Target'.
Category: Player Education
Why all footballers need to be versatile
As young players develop their game and often get pigeon-held into certain positions and roles, I often encourage them to develop variety and versatility within the number of roles and positions they can play.
Game of Numbers #21: How to play as the ‘Target’ like Sébastien Haller
Sébastien Haller has been one of the key difference makers to Borussia Dortmund in another title-chasing campaign for the Black & Yellows. They've been brilliant under Edin Terzic since the turn of the year, and some of that success has been down to the resurgence of cancer-free Sébastien Haller into the team.
Dribbling masterclass ft. Kane Ritchie-Hosler
Kane Ritchie-Hosler is a 20-year-old Englishman, who played this season in Scotland's third tier, on loan from Rangers B. His daring intensity to constantly take players on is reminiscent of youthful energy that can separate the 20-year-old from someone ten years older. However, not only does Ritchie-Hosler dazzle when you give him the ball, he excels when making optimal decisions both on and off the ball. He knows when to burst forward, when to turn, and when to play the simpler, safer options available. This is the key to any player existing within Ritchie-Hosler's 'dynamic dribbling' mold.
Game of Numbers #19 – How to cross like Pervis Estupiñán
Crucially for his role as a 'Wing-Back', Pervis Estupiñán is one of the best crossers of the ball in the division. That has translated in over 3 crosses and 1.6 key passes per 90 in league play. It's the awareness of when to keep the ball on the grass or when to raise the ball in the air that comes as such an underrated skill, and one that often allows the Ecuadorian to set his teammates up for a real chance of scoring.
How athletes can improve their scanning and perceptions of BOTS
The number one aspect that separates elite players from amateur is the ability to make quick decisions under pressure. Elite athletes are better able to process information, and frequently take in more information when scanning their surroundings, even if scanning for shorter periods of time. But scanning, information processing and attention to detail are all skills that can be worked upon by athletes at any level, in any sport.
Data-Driven Decision Making & Player Roles – Podcast Episode with Unlocked Football
During the pandemic, I probably watched close to twenty football matches a week. I got quite good at watching matches (i.e. analyzing football) but I didn't feel as though I was living the most well balanced life. It's cool to watch football for entertainment, but I no longer find it particularly possible. Even if I enjoy watching my favourite teams play, I'm always thinking about the site and how I can use my learnings from any given match to create content. For my line of work, I then find it imperative that I understand my purpose for watching football.
Why Tajon Buchanan is perfect for Inter Milan – Tactical Analysis
Just under five years ago, Tajon Buchanan was playing for a little-known club here in Ontario called Sigma FC, under the tutelage of Bobby Smyrniotis. Today, he's being linked with a move to one of Europe's biggest clubs - Inter Milan. Buchanan's had quite the rapid rise from a dynamic dribbling right-sided central midfielder for New England, to one of Canada's most influential players. He's excelled for Club Brugge as a right-wing-back the past couple of seasons, and now looks destined for a move to one of the grandest stages in European football. Here is our analysis of what makes Tajon Buchanan perfect for Inter Milan.
