Introduction
What do professional players value in training? We asked, and the answers reveal what every coach should aim for - regardless of level.
The Professional Standard
High Intensity
“Kevin’s sessions are high intensity.” - Marcel Oakley, Birmingham City
Players want to be pushed. Sessions that coast don’t develop.
But intensity isn’t just running hard. It’s:
- Decision-making under pressure
- Technical execution at speed
- Concentration throughout
- Competitive elements that drive effort
Technical Depth
“Very technical. This is all a player can ask for when they are looking to improve their game.”
Pros want to refine. They want sessions that challenge technique, not just fitness.
Technical depth means:
- Specific skill focus
- Progression through levels
- Immediate applicability to matches
- Precision in execution standards
Match Realistic
“The precision striker drills were challenging, but match realistic.” - Michael Bakare
Drills that don’t transfer to games waste time. Professionals know this.
Match realistic means:
- Game-like speeds
- Actual game situations
- Relevant pressure
- Decision points that mirror matches
Position Specific
“The sessions were position specific which allowed you to improve on areas you needed to.” - Jay Bird, Salford City
Generic sessions develop generic players. Specific needs require specific work.
Translating to Grassroots
Intensity Looks Different
You can’t train U10s like professionals. But you can create appropriate intensity:
- Competitive elements
- Time constraints
- Quick transitions
- Minimal standing around
Intensity is relative to age and ability.
Technical Focus Remains
Young players benefit from technical depth even more than professionals. Build foundations.
But technical doesn’t mean boring. It means:
- Clear focus
- Lots of repetition
- Immediate feedback
- Visible progress
Realism Scales
Match realism for young players:
- Right-sized goals
- Appropriate space
- Game-like activities over drill-like activities
- Opposition and pressure
Specificity Develops
Position specificity matters less at younger ages. General development first.
But even young players can benefit from:
- Understanding different roles
- Experiencing various positions
- Recognising their strengths
Session Design Principles
Every Minute Matters
Professionals don’t accept wasted time. Neither should young players.
Audit your sessions:
- How long are players active vs waiting?
- How many touches per player?
- Is every activity purposeful?
Challenge Creates Growth
“Challenging but match realistic.”
The sweet spot: Activities that stretch ability without breaking confidence.
Players Know Quality
Players at every level can feel when sessions are well-designed. They’re more engaged, more focused, more likely to return.
The Bottom Line
“This is all a player can ask for when they are looking to improve their game.”
Whether you coach professionals or U8s, players want sessions that:
- Challenge them appropriately
- Develop real skills
- Transfer to matches
- Respect their time
Design for that standard.