The Coaches' Room
11v11•Adult•In Possession

Manager says I need to improve my all-round game, not just score – what does that mean for a striker?

Asked by ColdNightGame
2869 views 2 replies
I finally asked why I'm not starting more and he said my finishing is fine but I need to give the team more when I'm not scoring. I didn't want to keep asking questions in the moment. What parts of a striker's game do coaches usually mean when they say 'all-round'?

VERIFIED COACH RESPONSE

When coaches talk about an all-round striker, they usually mean the things that keep the team functioning when you are not finishing a chance. That can include holding the ball long enough for support to arrive, linking with midfield, making runs that create space for someone else, pressing with the team, competing for second balls and recognising when the team needs you to stay high rather than come towards the ball. You do not need to become brilliant at every part immediately. Ask your manager which two areas he feels are currently costing you starts. For example, if your finishing is already trusted but the team struggles to get up the pitch when you play, your next focus may be securing the first pass into you. If the press breaks down around you, it may be your defensive movement. 'All-round' should become specific behaviours you can work on, not a vague judgement.

COMMUNITY DISCUSSION

Join the football discussion. 2 replies

D

DogWalk82

Parent

From watching strikers, 'all-round' usually seems to mean the game doesn't disappear when they don't score. Can they keep the ball, bring someone in, press properly, make space for the winger.
C

Charlie_98

Parent

Yes. A forward can have no shots and still make the team play better. If the manager used that phrase I'd ask him for two examples from your own games so it becomes less vague.

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