Let me start off by saying that it is not possible to isolate the three most "important" aspects for every soccer player because of a number of factors. Players have different roles on the field. A defender, for example, needs completely different qualities compared to an attacker. Secondly, players have different styles. One striker may be very skillful, but does that make him better than someone who is less skilled but stronger in the air? Both of them could be scoring the same amount of goals. Most players are very different and specialize in one or more areas or skills. Few players (usually midfielders) are well rounded and have no particular specialty.
There are two routes you can take when it comes to personal development. You can find your best features and excel at them or you can work on diminishing your weaknesses. Whichever route you choose you'll need to master these three basic skills required for success at any competitive level:
1. Ball control - being able to trap the ball from different situations regardless of enemy pressure. Being comfortable with bringing the ball under your possession even if it is flying or skipping along the floor. Being able to turn with the ball as you control it or settling it while you are running.
2. One-on-one battles - being able to compete for the ball physically and technically against opponents. There are two sides of this one: You can specialize in defending which means being quick on your feet; shuffling laterally against opponents who are dribbling and anticipating their moves. If you specialize as an attacker you must be able to dribble past enemies consistently by finding weaknesses in their footing. You will have to master exclusively 3 or more moves/fakes.
3. Striking the ball - being able to strike the ball with adequate accuracy and power. Being proficient with the three main kicking techniques: the push pass, instep drive and the curve. Being able to head the ball, adequately enough so that you can battle for 50-50 air balls. by Expert 10:18:16 Saturday 5 August 2006 |
