Training Routine
BY FOPPE DE HAAN, Under-21 Coach / Youth Football Technical Coordinator, KNVB.
AND REMY REYNIERSE, Assistant Under-21 Coach, KNVB.
Aim
To develop players' ability (midfielders) to support the striker after a pass (long ball).
Rules
The training is divided into two parts.
First part:
● 3 teams of 3 players (9 players in total).
● Blue versus red and yellow to start.
● This part of the game will take place in an area of 20 x 10 metres divided into two squares of 10 x 10 metres each.
● Both teams play from square to square.
● Each player can only touch the ball once.
● The player is only allowed to run in the other square when the ball is played to the striker.
● Teams change roles after a rest period of one minute.
Second part:
● 3 teams of 3 players and 2 goalkeepers (11 players in total).
● The team in possession can use the yellow players for support - one beside each goal and one in midfield.
● This part of the training will be situated in an area between the touchline and the halfway line. The exact size of the field depends on the requested intensity.
● Each player can only touch the ball once.
● Teams change roles after a rest period of one minute.
Time
First part:
● About 20 minutes overall. 4 or 5 sessions of 3-4 minutes with 1 minute rest (depending on the fitness of the players). The players train with heart rate monitors.
Second part:
● About 20 minutes overall with the same time sequence.
Development
● Positioning of the players in a 5 against 3 situation in one square.
● Choosing the right moment to play the ball to the other square.
● Running action from midfielders.
● Positioning of the player receiving the ball.
● Keeping possession of the ball.
