What does a striker actually do?
Goals get a kid noticed at nine. Movement gets a kid signed at thirteen. Here is what the striker's job becomes at each age, and why the best academy strikers often score fewer at grassroots than the biggest kid.
The same position, three different jobs.
Score goals and press the defenders. Most goals at this age come from being the fastest or the biggest. Coaches already watch for the kid who finishes with either foot.
The first touch in the box starts to matter more than pace. Coaches ask for movement across the defender and for holding the ball up so the team can move forward.
Runs in behind, runs to the near post, dropping in to link play. Pressing as the first defender is now a job, not a bonus. Scouts count touches in the box and shots on target, not goals.
Five things that get a striker noticed.
- 01Movement before the pass
Runs across the defender or in behind while the ball is still travelling. The run makes the pass possible.
- 02First touch in the box
Takes the ball into a shooting position with one touch. Two touches means the chance is gone at academy level.
- 03Both feet
Finishes with the weaker foot rather than adjusting. Scouts test it.
- 04Hold-up play
Receives with back to goal and keeps the ball under contact.
- 05First defender
Presses the centre-back on the trigger and shapes the press for the team.
Three habits to fix before a scout sees them.
Stands on the last defender and never moves. The pass never comes.
Never runs in behind, so the defence never has to turn.
Gives the ball away and walks. Coaches read it as attitude.
Your child is the striker. The winger is about to cross. Near post, far post, or hold the edge of the box?
Real time, tap the decision before the clock runs out. A coach explains the principle after. Five minutes, no login.
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