Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): CM midfield rotations possession game play thru thirds

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Set up: Area 20x20 yrds split into 4 zones, players in 2 teams, position 2 players from each team on outside, play 2v2, 3v3 in middle, odd numbers can use F in middle.

Format: 1 Ball per team is played from the player on end line into players in the middle to combine and pass out to opposite end line player. End player then transfers to end player on opposite team who plays inside the area for their team to combine.

Progression: Possession game, players look to retain possession and build the play from 1 target player to the opposite side. 

Key Points: Awareness - Players should perform 3 checks (before they move, as they move, before they receive) to be aware of the surroundings and move as the ball travels to create personal space or space for a team mate receive in a position to secure possession and play forwards. 

Positioning - Players should use the grids as reference points and move to diagonal/opposite grids from their teammate. This creates diagonal and forward passing lines to receive and combine. Rotation may also occur to swap positions and receive.

Body shape to receive & play - Play forward whilst seeing both targets and attempt to receive on the back foot, when possible, so that play can go forwards. Look to pass & combine using 1 & 2 touches & where applicable dominate 1v1's when under pressure.