Coaching Strikers

When we think of the great strikers in soccer history; players like Messi, Ronaldo, Pele, Maradona etc; the most prominent images convey the moments just before, during, and after a goal is scored. The shooting pose, the striker watching the ball fly past a beaten goalkeeper, the euphoric celebration. But what of the movement, the awareness, the cooperation with teammates, the quick decision making, the guile that led to the goal being scored? Striker play in soccer is an art. It requires an understanding of angles, a sense of timing, an awareness of space, great vision, close ball control and shooting skills, and of course the mysterious "nose for goal". This book explores methods to develop great strikers through specific training routines, including:


Shooting and Finishing Exercises

Small Sided Games

Functional Training and Phase Play

Specific Movements and Formations

Emphasis on Body Position

Awareness Training