defenders

Annabel DunnillCoach, England

Hi David,

Here are some drills and ideas to help your team's defenders keep in shape while moving up the pitch in a 4-4-2 formation:

Overlap drills: Set up cones to simulate a defensive situation in which the centre backs have pushed up the field and the wing backs need to overlap them. Have the wing backs practice running down the wing and overlapping the centre backs, while the centre backs practice passing the ball to them.

Shuttle runs: Set up two cones about 10-15 yards apart and have the players run back and forth between them, touching each cone with their hand as they go. Vary the direction and speed of the runs to simulate game situations.

4v4 mini-games: Divide the team into two teams of four players each and play a small-sided game in which the centre backs and wing backs must push up the field and work together to defend and attack.

Interval training: Set up cones along the length of the field and have the players run back and forth between them, alternating between sprinting and jogging. This will help improve their speed and endurance.

Remember to vary the drills and keep things interesting to maintain the players' motivation and engagement. Additionally, make sure to incorporate rest periods and allow players to recover between drills to avoid injury and burnout.

Hope this helps.

Archie