Make Your Own Playmaker

Small-sided games can be used to develop skills that make players stand out in matches, says David Clarke.

A skilful player causes excitement

We all have favourite players that cause a stir of excitement when they get the ball because we know that something will happen - a defence splitting pass, a clever one-two, a flick or a spin. It’s the playmaker in action. For anyone old enough to remember the great teams of the 70s and 80s every team had a playmaker who got the crowds on their feet.

Encourage the skilled players

So the idea behind this training session is to encourage the development of a playmaker. The player will be working on his technique - passing and receiving - and his communication and decision making, as well as adding his own flair.

How it works

Set up a 4v4 match, then chose your playmaker who is the extra player. Put him in a different coloured bib. He plays for the team in possession. For either team to score a goal the play must go through the playmaker.

The playmaker will see a lot of the ball and make many decisions. It is this repetition that will improve passing, receiving and decision making.

Key coaching tips

More involvement, less pressure, lots of fun allows the more skilled players to develop.