In this clip from the Real Sideline Expert series on the No1Fan.club platform, Chris Robinson, a professional Scout of over 30 years,  discusses the importance of positional flexibility in young football players. He emphasises that in the early years (ages 9-12), children should develop as all-around footballers by playing in different positions.

As players get older (13-15), they begin to specialise, but Chris advises that they should still be comfortable playing in at least three positions within a formation. Chris uses examples like Reece James and Ashley Cole to illustrate how top players often change positions during their development.

He cautions parents against being too concerned about their child’s specific position, especially at younger ages. Instead, he encourages trusting the academy’s process and embracing versatility, as it increases a player’s chances of selection and adaptability to different tactical systems.

Chris Robinson: Parents! We Want Versatile Players.

In this clip from the Real Sideline Expert series on the No1Fan.club platform, Chris Robinson discusses the importance of positional flexibility in young football players. He emphasises that in the early years (ages 9-12), children should develop as all-around footballers by playing in different positions. As players get older (13-15), they begin to specialise, but Chris advises that they should still be comfortable playing in at least three positions within a formation.

Chris uses examples like Reece James and Ashley Cole to illustrate how top players often change positions during their development. He cautions parents against being too concerned about their child’s specific position, especially at younger ages. Instead, he encourages trusting the academy’s process and embracing versatility, as it increases a player’s chances of selection and adaptability to different tactical systems.

Watch more top tips from Chris here
Watch the full interview with Chris here
Watch other Real Sideline expert clips here

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