Warm up: Going on the attack

WHY USE IT

This three-part session develops awareness and speed of attacking in the final third, working on movement off the ball, moving the ball quickly, attacking as a five and quality of end product.

SET-UP

Put players into small groups, one group at each end of the playing area. The playing area should be large enough to allow for realistic passing distances, but should also enable quick passing and moving, so players shouldn’t have to run too far to receive the pass. Place a mannequin in the middle of the channel. The first blue player needs a ball.

HOW TO DO IT

The first red player makes a move in front of the mannequin to receive a pass from the blue player. If possible, the red player passes back first time, for the sequence to continue with the next two players. The original two players then swap ends.

COACHING POINTS

Players should work on timing and angle of movement to receive, as well as weight of pass.

Speed of play should be quick, with sharp movements, but players should also make good decisions of when to take a touch before passing back, and when to pass back first time, depending on the weight and accuracy of the pass they receive

ADAPTATIONS

Ensure players are challenged by receiving the ball on both sides of the mannequin, allowing them to practice using both feet to return the pass. If players are struggling with accuracy, they can take a touch to control the ball before passing it back.