Tag: Player Education

Game of Numbers #38 – Alejandro Garnacho’s intensity & awareness

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Game of Numbers, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Player Education, Premier League

It's amazing to think that Alejandro Garnacho is only 19 years of age. Sometimes, you can see the rawness in his game. The facets that still need to be carefully developed. But as he ages, let's hope he never loses his tenacity. His hunger for more. His appetite to win at all costs, even when no one else is pulling their weight. He might not have the soaring high stats to back this up, but I truly believe Alejandro Garnacho is one of the players of this season in the Premier League. That's promising for United, who so desperately need something to cling onto for the future. Here is Game of Numbers #38, including what makes Alejandro Garnacho one of the best young players in the Prem.

Game of Numbers #32 – Harry Kane’s playmaking at Bayern Munich

Featured by Rhys Desmond, posted in Game of Numbers, German Bundesliga, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Striker

Harry Kane is one of the best goal-scorers on the planet. But he's also one of the best play-makers. In Game of Numbers #32, I break down why Kane has been such a perfect fit for Bayern, and why his playmaking influence should be a serious legacy of his career.

Comparing the Canadian Premier League’s next best centre-forwards

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Canadian Premier League, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Player Education, Striker, Subscriber Exclusives

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 unable to fully combine all the necessary skillsets also failing to turn their talents into goals. Here is my analysis of four of the next best centre-forwards in the CPL.

Comparing the Canadian Premier League’s elite centre-forwards

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Canadian Premier League, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Player Education, Striker, Subscriber Exclusives

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'.

Why all footballers need to be versatile

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coach Education, Coaching, Masterclasses, Player Education

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.

Dribbling masterclass ft. Kane Ritchie-Hosler

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Central Midfield, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Player Education, Subscriber Exclusives, Wing-Back

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.

Understanding BOTS & how to scan for quicker, correct decisions

Featured by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coach Education, Masterclasses, Most Recent, Player Education

Scanning goes far beyond what must coaches will shout out: "check your shoulder!". It needs to encompass a constant process of neck and eye movement, assessing ball, opposition, teammates and space.