Substitutions
01 Jun 2010

I have over the last few seasons been asked by parents about substitutions and how they work.
Firstly I will try to explain the way I decide who starts a game and then what I think about substitutes.

First off it’s about putting the players in I feel can do a job for the team, then it’s about team work and players who give their all in whatever position they are asked to play. The ones who don’t moan, have the right attitude and encourage others when they make a mistake, this encouragement comes even if they are not on the pitch, the ones who don’t let their heads go down when things are going against us.
The ones who work hard to cover for each other don’t blame others for losing the ball, will fight to recover the ball when they lose it, not stand and watch others trying to do it for them, the ones who aren’t afraid to tackle bigger stronger players, who will run their hearts out, grit their teeth and get on with it even when it hurts.
The ones who commit themselves to the team and show that commitment by turning up to all training sessions giving 100% every time, listening to the Manager and Coaches.
I will be looking for the ones who don’t mess about and want to learn, not the ones who disrupt the sessions for the others.

Yes after all this it will come down to ability, but not disrespect because all our players are good players and they will all get an opportunity to impress, if they take that opportunity then yes they will keep playing.

Parents will never accept why their child is not playing and that’s understandable, we all want what is best for them and surly it’s best for them to be involved with a good football club who want to see them develop into good players a club that doesn’t want to put to much pressure on them and turn them off the game a team that they will be proud to say they play for.

To build a good side you need to have more players than spaces in the team, this not only covers for injuries and absence but promotes a healthy rivalry for places, this can only be good for the team and a learning curve for the players.
We have at present 16 players who would all like to be playing every week, but the rules state we can only field 11 therefore this isn’t possible we have to have 5 people on the side lines each week.

The reason for making substitutions is to try and change the game for instance tightening up the defence to hold on to the game or throwing someone on to change the game by scoring some goals, so it could be tactical or forced on us because of injury.

Prior to the season starting I will talk to each of you individually about your Childs development how you can help and their position within the team.

I will be honest and say what part they will play this season.

If this is not acceptable I will help to find a new team for anyone who is not happy or comfortable with my plans for the future.

Starting the game as substitute is not a reflection on the player if they weren’t good enough to play they wouldn’t be in the squad.
Every single player has a part to play and each individual brings something different to the team.

I hope this has cleared up any misunderstanding however long it takes everyone will get an opportunity,if they take it and play well they will make me really happy and give me selection problems. Problems I would welcome

Jeff