supercity88
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- 9 Aug 2009
- Messages
- 14,066
I think Pep will be confident to dangle the carrot of first team football to younger players excelling at youth level. He's so focussed on the shape of the team and the overall game plan in each match that the individuals, though under pressure to perform, don't wholly matter from game to game. He's managed to take players out of their comfort zones and play them at full back when they're centre backs, or at defensive midfield. He's moved wingers more central, he's played with and without strikers - he's pretty much tried it all. If the players have the commitment, confidence and technique he demands then they'll get opportunities.
At academy level we've seen this sort of thing, with players being tried in various positions to improve their awareness and technique. I think under Pep we'll truly see an "if you're good enough you're old enough" approach and his own confidence and nurturing management style will help develop and enhance younger players. He's only going to hang out to dry those that don't work hard. As fans, that's exactly what we want to see.
At academy level we've seen this sort of thing, with players being tried in various positions to improve their awareness and technique. I think under Pep we'll truly see an "if you're good enough you're old enough" approach and his own confidence and nurturing management style will help develop and enhance younger players. He's only going to hang out to dry those that don't work hard. As fans, that's exactly what we want to see.