Skillset required for Spurs Total Football
Skillset Required for Spurs Total Football
OK, so we have looked at how Ange Postecoglou wants to create 'Total Football' just like the Dutch of 1974 whom he admires greatly and references in interviews on coaching, now we will look at the type of player required to play that football.
Should we call this Spurs Total Football or Tottenham Total Football?
It has similarities to 'Push and Run' football, a glorious part of Spurs' history and it requires the unity that 'Wind of Change' symbolised with the bringing down of the divisive Berlin Wall.
Total Football 1974
The coach of the Dutch national team during the 1974 FIFA World Cup was Rinus Michels. He is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of 'Total Football'. Read about the type of player needed to play this style at the link which opens in a new window.
Under Michels guidance, the Dutch team wowed the world with their exciting fluid and attacking style of play that became synonymous with 'Total Football' during that tournament.
The 1974 Dutch team, often referred to as "Clockwork Orange," played some of the most attractive and innovative football of that era.
Today we are going to look deeper at the skillset the player requires to play 'Total Football'.
Total Football Identikit
A footballer who is most likely to fit the profile of a 'Total Football' player, as exemplified by the Dutch team of 1974, would possess the following characteristics:
Versatile Playmaker
Total Football requires players who can seamlessly switch positions and adapt to different roles. A versatile playmaker can excel in multiple positions, whether as a central midfielder, winger, full-back, or forward.
Excellent Ball Control
The ability to control the ball under pressure is crucial. Total Football players need to be comfortable receiving passes in tight spaces and maintaining possession.
Vision and Passing Accuracy
A player with exceptional vision and the ability to deliver precise passes is essential. They should be able to split defenses with through balls and switch the play with accurate long passes.
High Football IQ
Total Football relies on intelligent decision-making and understanding of the game. Players should read the field well, make quick and effective decisions, and anticipate the movement of teammates and opponents.
Adaptability
The willingness and capability to interchange positions seamlessly is a defining trait of Total Football. Players should be comfortable in different roles and understand their responsibilities in each position.
Off-the-Ball Movement
Total Football players should have excellent off-the-ball movement, making intelligent runs to create space for themselves and their teammates. They should also know when to press and when to drop back defensively.
Work Rate
Total Football requires a high work rate, both in attack and defense. Players should be willing to track back, press opponents, and contribute defensively when needed.
Physical Fitness
Good fitness levels and stamina are vital for Total Football, as players need to cover a lot of ground throughout the match.
Mental Toughness
Confidence, composure, and resilience are essential mental attributes. Players should believe in their abilities and the team's philosophy, maintaining their cool under pressure.
Communication and Teamwork
Effective communication with teammates is crucial for coordinating movements and maintaining team shape. Players should have a strong sense of teamwork and trust in their fellow players.
Technical Proficiency with Both Feet
The ability to use both feet effectively is a significant advantage in Total Football, as it allows players to perform in various positions and situations.
Leadership
While not a strict requirement, having leaders on the field who can organize and motivate the team is beneficial for implementing Total Football successfully.
It's important to note that Total Football is not limited to one specific position; instead, it's a collective philosophy that can be adapted to various roles on the pitch. Players who embody these characteristics and can seamlessly integrate into the team's fluid style of play are the ones who best fit the Total Football profile.
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