Tag: Wingers

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 #36 – Role Changes for Dejan Kulusevski & Konrad Laimer

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Attacking Midfield, Central Midfield, Coach Education, Fullback, Game of Numbers, Masterclasses, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Player Education, Premier League, Wing-Back, Winger

One thing is for certain. Spurs have not been the same since injury to James Maddison. Spurs were flying high with no signs of slowing down at the start of the season. But injuries across the squad have since stunted their progress and made for a more difficult second half of the first half to this campaign. Micky van de Ven's been a miss at the back, but Maddison's creative influence has been that missing puzzle piece that's made for a lack of a finishing touch to Tottenham's endeavours. Perhaps not anymore, with Dejan Kulusevski showcasing his potential as a 'Creative Ten'. Here is Game of Numbers #36 - featuring role changes for Konrad Laimer and Dejan Kulusevski.

Game of Numbers #35 – Anthony Gordon’s embodiment of the Newcastle way

Featured by Rhys Desmond, posted in Central Midfield, Coach Education, Game of Numbers, Masterclasses, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Player Education, Premier League, Winger

Newcastle United have been defined in the Eddie Howe era by energy and intensity, including an all-out press, and fervid counter attacking immediately upon regaining possession. Anthony Gordon perfectly embodies the Newcastle way under Eddie Howe, and has been one of the surprise stars of the 2023-24 season. Many scoffed at Chelsea's interest in the former Everton youngster at the start of last season, particularly the price tag bestowed upon him. But Gordon is proving to be a priceless acquisition for the Magpies this season, bringing his tireless tenacity to the table every game. Here is Game of Numbers #35.

Game of Numbers #34 – Dribbling lessons from Jérémy Doku

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

Gotham FC finished the 2023 NWSL season in sixth place, narrowly scraping into the playoffs on goal differential over the Orlando Pride. They were far from the favourites to make the playoff final, let alone win the whole thing over a star-studded team like OL Reign. Yet thanks to a double-assist from Midge Purce, the NJ/NY team claimed the highest honour the NWSL has to offer. Here is a dribbling masterclass featuring lessons from the electrifying Midge Purce and Manchester City's new kid on the block Jérémy Doku.

Canadian Premier League Scouting Database – Massimo Ferrin

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Canadian Premier League, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Recruitment & Scouting, Winger

One of the HFX names that's stood out since the start of the season has been Massimo Ferrin, coming out of Patrice Gheisar's League 1 Ontario winning team in Vaughan. He doesn't necessarily have the high number of goals or assists to show for what he's accomplished this season, but Massimo Ferrin should definitely be proud of a great first-season so far in the Canadian Premier League. Here is why the 24-year-old is one to keep an eye on in Canadian football.

Canadian Premier League Scouting Database – Aidan Daniels

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Attacking Midfield, Canadian Premier League, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Recruitment & Scouting, Winger

Despite his versatility to play across the pitch, the former TFC academy product started just 16 matches in 2022. But flashes of brilliance were there for all to see, constantly taking the game to the opposition through his dynamic dribbling and tactical intelligence. This season, Patrice Gheisar has fully trusted Daniels to be the star player in his attack, ensuring that he can give the ball-playing wizard a free role off the right of his 4-2-3-1. This has allowed Daniels to flourish, where he's been one of the undeniable stars of the season in 2023. Here is what makes the 24-year-old one of the top prospects coming out of the Canadian Premier League this season.

Antoine Coupland – Player Analysis

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Canadian Premier League, Player Analysis, Recruitment & Scouting, Subscriber Exclusives, Winger

Antoine Coupland is a 19-year-old winger for Vancouver Whitecaps II, who has played predominantly on the right this season. His attributes and playing-style make him more of an 'Inverted Winger', which would likely work best coming inside onto his stronger left-foot from the right-hand-side.