The Tactical Football Coach

Set Piece Routines

 For all the dedicated football coaches who are locked in a
labour of love, I hope this gives you guidance when you need
it.
 CONTENTS

Introduction

1st Phase - Corners

2nd Phase - Free Kicks

3rd Phase - Throw-Ins

The Numbers Behind The Theory

The Final Word

 INTRODUCTION

Set pieces have always been a vitally important part of football. Some of the game's most
memorable goals have come from a corner or free kick. David Beckham's free kick for
England against Greece in 1998, Gareth Southgate's formidable love train routine in the
2018 World Cup and Trent Alexander Arnold's corner against Barcelona in 2019 are some
that spring to mind.

Football is a beautiful game. One thing that makes it so beautiful is its unpredictability. The
precise planning of England's set piece routines in 2018 was something to appreciate. The
sheer audacity of Trent Alexander Arnold's quick thinking is probably something we won't
see again for some time. Moments like this are rare and make the game so entrancing, and
no book will ever teach a player to think on their feet like this. That was all Trent's doing.
Because moments like this are so few and far between (especially with set pieces), I hope
that this book will give some guidance to coaches and players who are looking for ideas and
inspiration when it comes to set pieces.

It is important to note that my primary aim in writing this book is to inspire creativity within
teams. Whilst the bulk of the set pieces are set out with guidelines and instructions for each
player to follow, football is never that simple. Each set piece is creative in its own way and I
hope that off the back of this, they will use their initiative and creativity to think on their
feet when something happens beyond their control during a game (and, more specifically,
during a set piece).

Before we begin, it is important that I explain a couple of things. Each set piece has its own
individuality, but some things will remain consistent throughout the book. For instance, on
the first diagram of each routine, an area will be marked out as follows:

This is of vital importance and must be taken note of, as it is the area we will be looking to
expose on each set piece. This does not necessarily mean that it is the area where we are
aiming to get an attempt on goal, but it could be the area in step 1 or 2 of a 5 step process.
More often than not, it is these early steps in the process that are the most important, and
without meticulous attention to detail here, the whole set piece routine can, and probably
will, fail.
Whilst this book consists of 22 routines, it is likely (and advised) that you will introduce just
a handful of these to a group of players at any one time. One key thing to establish is how
you want your players to signal which routine you are about to use. I mentioned above that
it would be wise to introduce just a handful of these set pieces to your team at any one
time. In the same breath, utilising three or four of these (excluding throw ins) during a game
would probably give you a greater opportunity for success. This gives your players time to
refine the runs and movements involved and adapt anything they or you see fit.

Anyway, back to the signals. You could use the following:

- One arm in the air

- Two arms in the air
- Bounce the ball
- Foot on the ball

Of course, you may have your own signals that work for you. But these are just ideas (some
obvious ones too, I realise). I am including this section though, because there is another way
you can use these signals to your advantage. And that is the timing of the signal.

If, for example, your set piece taker is walking over to the corner flag, why not have one arm
in the air while walking? This gives your players time to organise themselves and an extra
few seconds to think about their role throughout the routine. Picture, if you will, your centre
backs making their way into the penalty area for a corner, and knowing what position they
need to take up before they've even got there, because the set piece taker has their arm in
the air for 5 seconds before arriving at the corner flag. I am a big believer of preparing
properly, so why not utilise an extra few seconds that would usually be 'dead time' to try
and give yourself an edge over your opponents. You will have seen, I am sure, how Trent
Alexander Arnold took advantage of this 'dead time' against Barcelona. What I am proposing
doesn't have the wow factor that came with Origi's goal that night, but it may still result in a
goal. And that is the aim.
For the purposes of simplicity and continuity, I have set up the opposition in a similar shape
for most of the routines.

The most important factor is that they will be man marking, rather than zonal. Therefore,
take this into consideration when applying these routines to your players.

As we all know, football is an unpredictable game and expecting to come up against a

similar shape in reality, time and time again, against different opposition would be naive.
The level that you coach at may determine how you approach this. For instance, if you have
the capability to carry out opposition scouting, this may give you an indication of which set
pieces will be more effective against certain teams. If you coach at youth level, an
understanding of the movements and what the routine is aiming to achieve could become a
more important factor.
1ST PHASE - CORNERS
Player Roles
A – Corner taker.
B – Starting position inside 6 yard box, preparing to come short for the ball, creating space
in the target area.
C & D – Blockers for E.
E – Final target man, who will look to expose the space created in the target area.
F & G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.

H – Surrounding the GK, prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Play ball into B as they look to receive the short corner.
B – Make movement towards corner taker with intention of receiving the ball. The aim is to
drag 1, or possibly 2, opponents with them.
C & D – Blockers for E.
E – Begin movement into the target area by curving run around teammates, C & D.
F & G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.

H – Surrounding the GK, prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – After passing to B, make movement to an area where they can receive a return pass
from B, with intention of then playing the ball into the target area.
B – Upon receiving the ball, look to play the return pass to A, allowing them to pass into
target area.
C & D – Blockers for E.
E – After curving their run, a burst of speed is required to ensure they can get into the target
area unopposed.
F & G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.
H – Surrounding the GK, prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Upon receiving the return pass, look to play a pass (along the deck, if possible) into the
target area, for E to run on to.

B – After passing to A, be prepared to pick up any loose balls if the attack breaks down.
C & D – Blockers for E, but also being aware of play breaking down or any loose balls in the
penalty area.
E – After a burst of speed into the target area, look to receive the ball from A.
F & G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.
H – Surrounding the GK, prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – After passing the ball to E, they need to be prepared for any breakdown in the attack
and respond appropriately.
B – Awaiting any loose balls that come towards them. Can they close in on the GK for a
rebound?
C & D – Can they close in on the GK for any rebounds?
E – Upon receiving the ball from A, aim to get a shot away at goal on their first touch if
possible.
F & G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.
H – Surrounding the GK, prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely. Also waiting to
pounce on any rebounds.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

COACHING POINTS
The aim of this set piece is for E to receive the ball between the 6 yard box line and the
penalty spot, towards the near post. This is why it is so important to expose this zone (the
target area) in the build-up of the routine.
You will notice the starting positions of C, D & E – which were towards the far post. This
gives E the opportunity to lose their marker and receive the ball in the target area.
The aim for B is to try and drag an opponent (two opponents, ideally) from the front post
area when they look to receive the short corner. Again, this will give E more space when
they receive the final pass.
F and G have both been positioned on the edge of the 18 yard box. Having 2 players in this
area won’t be the case for every set piece in this book. But for this routine, it means there
are fewer players in the penalty area and exposing that space for E is vital for the success of
the move.
“Set pieces are something I work hard at after training, and I hit quite a lot every day.”

- James Maddison, Leicester City FC -

Player Roles
A – Corner taker.
B – Starting position close to the corner taker. Ready to receive the ball.
C – Positioned towards back post, in line with the penalty spot. Ready to expose the target
area.
D & E – Blockers for C.
F – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.
G – On the edge of the box. Ready to make run to receive the ball.
H – Surrounding the GK, prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Play a short pass into B.
B – Receive ball on the half turn, ready to pass to G.
C – Positioned towards back post, in line with the penalty spot. Ready to expose the target
area.
D & E – Blockers for C.
F – On the edge of the box. Move into a more central area. Ready to prevent any counter
attacks.

G – Make run towards B. Ready to receive the ball.

H – Surrounding the GK, prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles

A – Make run inside towards penalty area.

B – Play a short pass into G.
C – Make a curved run around D & E, towards target area. Look to lose marker.
D & E – Blockers for C.

F – On the edge of the box. Ready to prevent any counter attacks.

G – Receive the ball from B. Ready to play return pass to A.
H – Surrounding the GK, prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Receive ball from G as they enter the penalty area.
B – Ready to react to any loose balls.

C – Continue run into target area with burst of speed.

D & E – Blockers for C.
F – On the edge of the box. Ready to prevent any counter attacks.
G – Play pass into A’s path.
H – Surrounding the GK, prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

Player Roles
A – Play short pass into C.

B – Ready to react to any loose balls.

C – Receive ball from A in the target area.
D & E – Blockers for C, ready to react to any loose balls.
F – On the edge of the box. Ready to prevent any counter attacks.
G – Ready to react to any loose balls. Ready to prevent any counter attacks.

H – Surrounding the GK, prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to react to any loose balls.
B – Ready to react to any loose balls.
C – Look to get an attempt on goal. A first touch shot would provide best chance to work the
goalkeeper.
D & E – Ready to react to any loose balls.

F – On the edge of the box. Ready to prevent any counter attacks.

G – Ready to react to any loose balls. Ready to prevent any counter attacks.
H – Surrounding the GK, prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely. Ready to
attack any rebounds.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
COACHING POINTS
It takes 4 passes in this routine before an attempt on goal will be made. Therefore, it is
imperative that the ball is moved quickly in the early stages of the set piece. This gives your
team the best opportunity to expose the space in the target area.
The timing of the runs and weight of passes will be the difference between success and
failure for this set piece, and ideally 1 and 2 touches per player will work best.
“Zidane leads the orchestra. And he is a dead-ball specialist.”

- Jamie Carragher -
Player Roles

A – Corner taker
B & C– Paired close together in line with the front post.
D & E – Paired close together in line with the back post.
F – Hovering on edge of the 18 yard box, allowing enough room for the target area to be
exposed.
G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.
H – Surrounding the GK, prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

Player Roles
A – Aim to deliver the ball at head height with pace towards the 6 yard box. The priority is
not an in-swinger or an out-swinger, but for the ball to be struck with laces and drilled into
the target area.
B & C– Making diagonal runs across each other, aim to lose their marker as they attack the
target area at the front post.
D & E – Making diagonal runs across each other, aim to lose their marker as they attack the
target area at the back post.
F – Hovering on edge of the 18 yard box, allowing enough room for the target area to be
exposed, as well as being prepared to attack any loose ball.
G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.
H – Surrounding the GK, prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely, as well as
being prepared to latch on to any rebounds.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Be prepared to make any recovery runs if the opposition counter attack.
B & C– Aim to get an attempt on goal.

D & E – Aim to get an attempt on goal.

F – Hovering on edge of the 18 yard box, prepared to attack any loose ball.
G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.
H – Surrounding the GK, prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely, as well as
being prepared to latch on to any rebounds.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
COACHING POINTS
Two of the most important aspects of this routine are the starting positions of the target
players (B, C, D & E) and the pace the ball is delivered at.
It is vital that their starting position is on the edge of the 18 yard box. This creates more
exposure to the target area, providing them with a better opportunity to get an attempt on
goal. It provides more time to lose their marker while they make their run, as well as being
able to attack the ball at pace. Attacking the ball at pace is imperative, because it means
that as long as the target player meets the ball, it will require very little direction in order to
work the goalkeeper. They will simply need to guide the ball in that general direction, and
the goalkeeper will have a lot of work to do to make a save, simply because of the pace the
ball is travelling at.
“On set plays, we're a real threat - we've identified that as a key area in tournaments and a
key area we felt we could improve on.”
- Gareth Southgate, England Manager -
Player Roles
A – Corner taker
B, C & D– Grouped close together in line with the front post.

E – Positioned around the penalty spot, ready to act as a blocker.

F – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.
G – On the edge of the box. Ready to expose space inside the penalty area.
H – Surrounding the GK. Ready to expose space inside the penalty area.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Corner taker
B, C & D – Begin to make runs around E, into the target area at the back post.
E – Assist B, C & D by blocking their markers.
F – On the edge of the box. Move into a more central position, ready to stop any counter
attacks.
G – On the edge of the box. But begin to make a run towards the corner taker, acting as a
decoy.

H – Begin to make a run towards the corner taker, acting as a decoy.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Deliver an in-swinging corner towards the back post in the target area.
B, C & D – Having used E as a blocker, attack the target area at pace.
E – Having initially blocked the markers for B, C & D, make delayed run towards front post in
case the taker under hits corner.

F – On the edge of the box. Ready to stop any counter attacks.

G – On the edge of the box. Ready to stop any counter attacks.
H – Be prepared to attack any loose balls.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to make any recovery runs if the opposition break on the counter attack.
B, C & D – Aim to get an attempt on goal.
E – Ready to attack any loose balls in the penalty area.
F – On the edge of the box. Ready to stop any counter attacks.

G – On the edge of the box. Ready to stop any counter attacks.

H – Be prepared to attack any loose balls.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
COACHING POINTS
The movements of G & H at the beginning of this set piece are vital to the routine. Not only
does it drag players away from the target area and leaves fewer players in the penalty area,
it also has the ability to distract the markers of B, C & D. Taking their eyes off their opponent
for even a split second, as they are distracted by the decoy run, can be the trigger for B, C &
D to start their runs. This, alongside E (and E’s marker – unintentionally) acting as a blocker
will allow them free reign to attack the target area at pace.
Another important factor is the delivery from the corner taker. An in-swinging corner would
work best as it should keep the ball far enough away from the goalkeeper, given that the
target area is past the back post.
“People will tell me it’s bad defending. I’m telling you it’s pure intelligence and vision.”
- Cesc Fabregas, Monaco -
Player Roles
A – Corner taker
B – On the edge of the box, positioned towards the front post.
C – On the edge of the box, positioned towards the back post.
D – On the penalty spot.

E & F – Positioned either side of the penalty spot, ready to act as blockers for B & C.
G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.
H – Surrounding the GK. Prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Deliver an in-swinging ball towards the target area.
B – Curve run towards front post/ target area.
C – Curve run towards back post area.

D – On the penalty spot, ready to attack any loose balls.

E & F – Make small movement towards each runner (B & C), looking to block their markers.
G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.
H – Surrounding the GK. Prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely, ready to react
to any potential rebounds.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to react to any loose balls and prepared to make any recovery runs.

B – Attack the ball, with aim of heading towards far post.

C – Ready to react to any opportunities at the back post.
D – On the penalty spot, ready to attack any loose balls.
E & F – Ready to react to any loose balls.
G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.

H – Surrounding the GK. Ready to react to any potential rebounds.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
COACHING POINTS
E & F have a vital role in this set piece. The timing of their run to block the markers for B & C
is vital, as it will give them the extra half yard they need to attack the ball effectively.
The delivery has little room for error from the corner taker. If they over hit the set piece, the
chances are an opponent will win the header, due to the numbers they will likely have in
that area. Under hit it and it will be very difficult for B to get an attempt on goal. Ensure the
corner taker delivers the ball at head height, with pace into the target area. This will allow B
to glance a header towards the back post, with a real opportunity of scoring.
“As soon as we’d finished training, the mannequins would be out and David Beckham would
be taking free-kicks, corners and he’d do it for an hour.”
- Paul Ince, former Premier League midfielder -
Player Roles
A – Corner taker
B & C – Inside the 6 yard box, positioned towards the front post.
D & E – Inside the 6 yard box, positioned towards the back post.
F – On the penalty spot.

G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.

H – Surrounding the GK. Prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Deliver an in-swinging, floating corner towards the 6 yard box.
B & C – B should make movement towards the middle of the goal, while C makes small
movement towards front post.
D & E – D should make small movement towards back post, while E should move towards
the middle of the goal.
F – On the penalty spot, ready to attack any loose balls.
G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.
H – Surrounding the GK. Prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to react to any loose balls.
B & C – Aim to get an attempt on goal.
D & E – Aim to get an attempt on goal.
F – On the penalty spot, ready to attack any loose balls.
G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.
H – Aim to get an attempt on goal.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
COACHING POINTS
This is one of my favourite corner routines. You will have noticed that the defenders have
been omitted from the diagram in the 6 yard box. I have done this to make the diagram
easier on the eyes, nothing more. You can imagine though, that with 5 defenders in the 6
yard box as well, it will make for a very chaotic area.
This, coupled with a floating, in-swinging corner from the set piece taker, makes it very
difficult to defend against. Even if a defender were to win the header, the nature of the
delivery will make it a challenge to clear the ball out of the danger zone.
This routine may not look pretty. But having used this set piece, I have seen first-hand how
successful it can be.
“There are players that try to imitate others. But at free-kick time, it is a personal thing.”
- Neymar -
Player Roles
A – Corner taker
B, C, D & E – Positioned between the penalty spot and edge of the 18 yard box. Grouped
together in a single file line.
F – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.
G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.

H – Surrounding the GK. Prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles

A – Deliver corner towards one of the target areas. It can be in-swinging or out-swinging.
B & C – B to make slight movement towards front post. C to make slight movement towards
back post. Aim is to block markers for D & E.
D & E – D to curve run towards target area at front post. E to curve run towards target area
at back post.
F – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.
G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.
H – Surrounding the GK. Prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

Player Roles

A – Ready to react to any loose balls.

B & C – Aim to block markers and be ready to react to any rebounds.
D & E – Aim to get an attempt on goal, depending on where the corner was delivered to
(front or back post).
F – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.
G – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.
H – Surrounding the GK. Prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely. Ready to react
to any rebounds.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

COACHING POINTS
This set piece has gained popularity recently and there are a number of variations of the
routine, but what I’ve provided above will give you a good idea of how to implement it, even
if it is tweaked slightly.
The delivery can be made to the front or back post, as runners will aim to attack both areas.
It is important that B, C, D & E are grouped together to begin with, in a train formation, as
this will make it difficult for the opponents to get close to them. From here, a sharp burst of
speed from the runners is needed to attack the target areas and aim to get an attempt on
goal.
“Nothing was going to stop me taking that free-kick. I felt confident, calm, and certain. I
knew I could make it.”
- David Beckham -
Player Roles
A – Corner taker
B, C, D & E – Positioned on the far side of the back post, ensuring the target area can be
exposed by teammates.
F – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.
G – In a position close to the taker and the touchline, ready to expose the space in the
target area.
H – Surrounding the GK. Ready to receive the ball from a short corner.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

Player Roles
A – Play a short pass into H as they come to receive the ball.
B, C, D & E – Hold position beyond the far post, ensuring the near post space can be exposed
by G.
F – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.
G – Begin run inside, losing marker and exposing the target area space.
H – Receive ball from A and using body to protect it from opponent.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

Player Roles

A – Be prepared to receive the ball back from H, in case routine breaks down
B, C, D – Begin runs towards the back post, looking to react to any loose ball across goal.
E – Begin movement to the edge of the box, in case the routine breaks down. Get in a
position to react to any loose balls.
F – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.
G – Look to receive the ball from H in the target area. The aim is to attack the area with
pace, having lost their marker.
H – Play ball into G’s path, with a good weight on the pass so that G can take the ball in their
stride.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles

A – Ready to react to any loose balls. Prepared to make any recovery runs if necessary.
B, C & D – Prepared to react to any rebounds at the far post.
E – Taken up position on the edge of the box, providing cover for any counter attacks. Can
also react to loose balls and rebounds.
F – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.
G – Run on to pass from H, with the aim of a first touch shot towards the far post, or driving
into the penalty area with the ball. Player to make decision based on how the routine
unfolds.
H – Ready to react to any loose balls.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
COACHING POINTS
It is important to stress the importance of where B, C, D and E position themselves in this
routine. Ensuring they hold their position beyond the far post should ensure that the target
area can be exposed by G.
G must time their run inside to ensure the set piece runs smoothly. Arriving too early will
allow their marker to apply pressure as play slows down. Arriving too late will make it
difficult to get an attempt on goal that will test the goalkeeper.
“Ronaldo’s strike rate is phenomenal. The boy practices. It’s a delight to see, terrific.”
- Sir Alex Ferguson -
Player Roles
A – Corner taker

B, C, D & E – Grouped together in line with the penalty spot, just beyond the far post.
F – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.
G – On the edge of the box, but ready to make a run towards the corner taker, to receive
the ball.
H – Surrounding the GK. Prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Play a short pass into G.
B & C – Act as blockers for D & E.
D – Curve run around teammates, attacking the front post in the target area and looking to
lose their marker.
E – Curve run around teammates, attacking the back post in the target area and looking to
lose their marker.
F – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks and also to allow more
space to be exposed inside the penalty area.

G – Make run towards corner taker with the intention to receive the ball.
H – Surrounding the GK. Prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Be prepared to receive the ball back from G, in case routine breaks down.

B & C – Act as blockers for D & E and be prepared to react to any loose balls.
D – Attack front post in the target area
E – Attack back post in the target area.
F – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.
G – Aim to deliver the ball at pace and head height across the 6 yard box line in the target
area.
H – Surrounding the GK. Prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

Player Roles
A – Be prepared to react to any loose balls and to make any recovery runs.
B & C – Be prepared to react to any loose balls in the penalty area.

D – Attack front post in the target area and aim to get an attempt on goal.
E – Attack back post in the target area and aim to get an attempt on goal.
F – On the edge of the box. There to prevent any counter attacks.
G – Be prepared to react to any loose balls and to make any recovery runs.
H – Surrounding the GK. Prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely. Ready to
attack any potential rebounds.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
COACHING POINTS
One important factor in this routine is the very first step of the set piece. The weight of the
pass made by A will impact how G can deliver the cross. The aim is for G to deliver the ball
first time into the target area, this way it will be delivered with pace and will give D and E
the best chance to get an attempt on goal. Therefore, the pass made by A needs to be firm
enough to reach G, but also without G having to take a touch to keep the ball under control
first.
“I’ve watched Pirlo taking free-kicks and he makes it look so easy. When he’s there, over the
ball, he knows what to do.”
Christian Eriksen, Inter Milan
Player Roles

A – Corner taker
B, C, D, E & F – Grouped together in line with the penalty spot, just beyond the far post.
G – On the edge of the box, but ready to make a run towards the corner taker, to receive
the ball.
H – Surrounding the GK. Prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Play a low pass into the target area for G to run on to.

B, C, D, E & F – Grouped together in line with the penalty spot, just beyond the far post.
G – Make the run towards the target area, with intention of receiving the ball from A.
H – Surrounding the GK. Prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Be prepared to react to any loose balls.
C – Drop into position on the edge of the area, providing cover and preventing any counter
attacks.
B, D, E & F – Make runs towards back post, ready to react to any rebounds.
G – Aim to get an attempt on goal, towards the far post. Ideally, on their first or second
touch.
H – Surrounding the GK. Prevent their line of sight and ability to move freely. Ready to react
to any rebounds.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

COACHING POINTS
From my experience, this routine will only work once a game and tends to be most
effectively utilised as the game’s first corner. The reason being, G’s marker will be aware of
the routine after it has been done once, and it’ll make it much more difficult to find the
necessary space to get an attempt on goal.
It is vital that the players grouped at the back post stay on that side of the penalty spot. The
target area at the front post needs to be exposed for this routine to work effectively. A low
but firm pass from A is also required, so that G can take the ball in their stride and get an
attempt on goal.
“Roberto Carlos would be worth having in any team just for his ability to take free kicks.”
- Ronaldinho –
2ND PHASE - FREE KICKS
Player Roles
A – Free Kick taker
B – Positioned close to taker, ready to make a dummy run

C – Positioned close to taker, ready to receive the ball.

D, E, F & G – Grouped together on the edge of the box, just beyond the far post.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Play short pass towards target area, into the path of C
B – Make dummy run alongside taker, distracting the players in the wall.
C – Make short run into target area, receiving the ball from A.
D, E, F & G – Curve runs towards back post, exposing space in target area.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to react to any loose balls

B – Ready to react to any loose balls

C – Look to get an attempt on goal.
D, E, F & G – Ready to react to any rebounds at the far post.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
COACHING POINTS
Two key factors will assist in making this routine a success. The first being the position of D,
E, F & G. They must ensure they stay beyond the far post, leaving the central area around
the edge of box exposed. This gives C the necessary space to run on to the ball and have an
attempt on goal. The second important factor is the dummy run from B. This will distract the
opponents in the wall and gives A slightly more time (even if it is a split second) to play the
pass into the path of C.
"We’re working on set pieces a lot, and to see it coming out in the games when we prepare
so much for it. It’s such a big factor in games."
- Rubens Loftus-Cheek -
Player Roles
A – Free Kick taker
B – Positioned out wide, ready to make a dummy run
C – Positioned in front of the wall, ready to expose the target area.
D, E, F & G – Grouped together on the edge of the box, just beyond the far post.

H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Short pass into target area for D to receive.
B – Make a dummy run down the line, distracting their marker.
C – Ready to spin into target area to receive the ball.
D – Make run into target area, ready to receive ball from A.

E, F & G – Act as blockers for D, giving them space to run into target area.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to react to any loose balls.

B – Ready to react to any loose balls.

C – Spin into target area, running on to pass from D.
D – Receiving ball from A, laying off a short pass into the path of C.
E, F & G – Act as blockers for D, and also ready to react to any loose balls.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

Player Roles
A – Ready to react to any loose balls.
B – Ready to react to any loose balls.
C – Make an attempt on goal.
D – Ready to react to any loose balls.

E, F & G – Ready to react to any loose balls.

H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
COACHING POINTS
The role of E, F and G as blockers for D is vital in this routine, along with their starting
position again. Keeping the central area around the edge of penalty box exposed and free
for players to run into will give the set piece the best possible chance of being successful.
Also ensure that C is playing within the rules when standing in front of the opposition wall.
There needs to be a 1 metre gap, but this shouldn’t affect their ability to get an attempt on
goal.
"If you put the wrong petrol in the car it's not going to go very far. For a human being, its
exactly the same. You have to prepare the right way."
- Arsene Wenger -
Player Roles

A – Free Kick taker

B – Positioned next to the taker, ready to make a dummy run
C – Positioned behind the wall, ready to expose the target area.
D, E, F & G – Grouped together on the edge of the box, just beyond the far post.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

Player Roles
A – Free Kick taker
B – Make dummy run inside towards penalty area.
C – Positioned behind the wall, ready to expose the target area.
D, E, F & G – Grouped together on the edge of the box, just beyond the far post.

H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Play short pass towards target area, into the path of C.
B – Ready to react to any loose balls.
C – Make run into the target area, receiving the ball from A.
D, E, F & G – Grouped together on the edge of the box, just beyond the far post.

H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to react to any loose balls.

B – Make run towards front post.

C – Play a low pass across the face of the goal, aiming for teammates at the far post.
D, E, F & G – Make curved runs towards far post.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to react to any loose balls.
B – Aim to get an attempt on goal.

C – Play a low pass across the face of the goal, aiming for teammates at the far post.
D, E, F & G – Aim to get an attempt on goal.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
COACHING POINTS
The dummy run from B will, once again, act as a distraction to the opponents in the wall.
This will give A and C the split second that is required to expose the target area. The next
important factor is the timing of the runs from the players at the far post. The low cross
from C across the ‘corridor of uncertainty’ will always cause problems, but a well-timed run
will more than likely result in an attempt on goal.
"I discussed with Mo to roll it and make the angle a bit better, confuse the ‘keeper a little bit,
and I was able to put it away. It’s something we’ve been working on and we executed them
both well."
- Trent Alexander Arnold -
Player Roles

A – Free Kick taker

B – Positioned next to the taker, ready to make a dummy run
C – Positioned in line with the back post, ready to act as a blocker for D.
D – Positioned in line with the back post, ready to receive the ball.

E, F & G – Grouped together on the edge of the box, just beyond the far post.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Free Kick taker
B – Positioned next to the taker, ready to make a dummy run

C – Positioned in line with the back post, ready to act as a blocker for D.
D – Positioned in line with the back post, ready to receive the ball.
E, F & G – Grouped together on the edge of the box, just beyond the far post.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Play short pass into D.

B – Ready to receive the ball in the target area.

C – Act as a blocker for D.
D – Receive ball from A, ready to play the ball into B.
E, F & G – Grouped together on the edge of the box, just beyond the far post.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

Player Roles
A – Ready to react to any loose balls.
B – Receive ball from D in the target area.

C – Act as a blocker for D.

D – Play short pass into the path of B.
E, F & G – Grouped together on the edge of the box, just beyond the far post.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to react to any loose balls.
B – Get an attempt on goal, aiming for the far post.

C – Ready to react to any loose balls.

D – Ready to react to any loose balls.
E, F & G – Ready to react to any loose balls.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
COACHING POINTS
Timing of the runs is very important in this routine. B must make sure they do not run
offside before the ball is played to them. C, D, E, F & G must start grouped together on the
far side of the penalty spot, leaving enough space for D to run into, to receive the ball. The
weight of pass by D will then be the deciding factor on whether B can get an attempt on
goal.
"It's not a god given talent but because Beckham practices with a relentless application that
the vast majority of less gifted players wouldn't even contemplate."
- Sir Alex Ferguson -
Player Roles
A – Free Kick taker
B, C & D – Positioned on one side of the penalty area, just outside the post.
E, F & G – Positioned on the other side of the penalty area, just outside the post.

H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Play a floated ball into target area A, towards B, C & D.
B, C & D – Make curved runs into target area A.
E, F & G – Make curved runs into target area B.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

Player Roles

A – Ready to prevent any counter attacks.

B, C & D – Attempt to head the ball across goal, towards target area B, for players E, F & G to
run on to.
E, F & G – Attempt to get an attempt on goal, following the knock down ball from B, C or D.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to prevent any counter attacks.
B, C & D – Ready to react to any loose balls.
E, F & G – Get an attempt on goal following knock down from teammates, and ready to
react to loose balls.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

COACHING POINTS
When a set piece is in a central area such as this, it can sometimes be difficult to create an
angle for the cross, which in turn makes it far more difficult for the player getting an
attempt on goal. In this routine, B, C & D are the trigger to set the wheels in motion. Their
movements will define where E, F & G make their runs. It is important that the players in the
penalty area do not all make the same movements or runs to the same area, as this will
reduce the chances of winning the first header and also being able to react to the knock
down.
"The more familiar with a situation you become, the better your decision will be."
- Lionel Messi -
Player Roles

A – Free Kick taker

B – Positioned on the corner of the penalty area, ready to receive the ball.
C & D – Positioned close to B, ready to expose target area B.
E – On the edge of the penalty area, ready to lose their marker.
F & G – Positioned on the other side of the penalty area, ready to expose target area A

H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Play short pass into B.

B – Look to receive ball from A.

C & D – Ready to expose target area B.
E – On the edge of the penalty area, ready to lose their marker.
F & G – Ready to expose target area A.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

Player Roles
A – Ready to prevent any counter attacks.

B – Play a floated ball (preferably on the first touch) into target area A.
C & D – Make curved runs into target area B, towards the back post.
E – Make curved run past the penalty spot, towards goal.
F & G – Make curved runs into target area A, looking to win header.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

Player Roles
A – Ready to prevent any counter attacks.

B – Ready to react to any loose balls.

C & D – Make curved runs into target area B, towards the back post, ready to receive ball
across goal.
E – Make curved run past the penalty spot, towards goal, ready to receive ball.
F & G – Aim to win header and play the ball across goal for teammates.
H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to prevent any counter attacks.
B – Ready to react to any loose balls.
C & D – Aim to get an attempt on goal, following header across 6 yard box from F/G
E – Aim to get an attempt on goal, following header across 6 yard box from F/G

F & G – Ready to react to any loose balls.

H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
COACHING POINTS
The body position of B is very important in this routine. Reinforce the idea that they need to
be on the half turn in order to play a first time ball towards the far post. This gives the
routine a far better chance of being successful. From here, it is the timing of the runs and
jump to ensure a knock down header can be won. C, D & E must make sure they are alert
and ready to react to any ball across the 6 yard box with the aim of getting an attempt on
goal.
"Football is a game you play with your brains."
- Johan Cruyff -
Player Roles
A – Free Kick taker
B – Positioned centrally, approx. 10 yards outside of the box. Ready to expose the target
area.
C, D, E, F & G – On the edge of the penalty area positioned beyond the far post, allowing the
target area to be exposed.

H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Play a low pass into the target area, allowing B to run on to the ball.
B – Make a curved and disguised run into the target area, receiving the ball from A.
C, D, E, F & G – On the edge of the penalty area positioned beyond the far post, ready to
make runs towards the 6 yard box.

H – On the edge of the box, ready to prevent any counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to prevent any counter attacks.

B – Play a low cross along the 6 yard box, for teammates to get an attempt on goal.
C, D, E, F & G – Make curved runs to different areas of the penalty area, aiming to get meet
the pass from B.
H – Move into a central area, ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to prevent any counter attacks.

B – Ready to react to any loose balls.

C, D, E, F & G – Aim to get an attempt on goal, and be ready to attack any rebounds.
H – Ready to prevent any counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
COACHING POINTS
B should aim to give the perception that they are completely uninterested in the phase of
play before making their run towards the target area. This misdirection could give them an
extra half yard and more time to pick out a teammate when they cross the ball. The players
in the penalty box must ensure their starting position is well clear of the target area, to give
B every chance of receiving the ball with out being pressured by an opponent.
"You can’t help but learn from having players like Frank Lampard around you when you’re
training and playing alongside him every day."
- Eden Hazard -
3RD PHASE - THROW-INS
Player Roles

A – Throw in taker
B & C – Positioned 5 yards apart, in line with the thrower. Ready to expose the target area.
D & E – On the edge of the penalty area, ready to react to any balls into the box.
F & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support close to the thrower if needed, but also there to prevent
counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Throw ball into C.
B & C – Make short 3 yard movement away from target area, with C receiving the ball from
thrower.
D & E – On the edge of the penalty area, ready to react to any balls into the box.
F & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support close to the thrower if needed, but also there to prevent
counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles

A – Make quick movement towards target area.

B – Hold position to allow target area to be exposed.
C – Play return pass into path of A, towards target area.
D & E – Make diagonal runs to front and back post.
F – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter attacks.

G – Make forward run to provide an option on the edge of the box.

H – In a position of support, ready to prevent counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Play pass into the penalty area towards D, E or G depending on the movement of
opposition.
B – Ready to react to any loose balls.

C – Ready to react to any loose balls.

D & E – Aim to get an attempt on goal.
F – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter attacks.
G – Provide an option on the edge of the box. Ready to react to any loose balls.
H – In a position of support, ready to prevent counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

Player Roles
A – Ready to react to any loose balls.
B – Ready to react to any loose balls.
C – Ready to react to any loose balls.
D & E – Aim to get an attempt on goal.
F – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter attacks.
G – Provide an option on the edge of the box. Ready to react to any loose balls.
H – In a position of support, ready to prevent counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

COACHING POINTS
B and C must ensure that their initial runs are made simultaneously in order to create the
space in the target area for A. When C receives the ball, they must then aim to play a
cushioned pass on the first touch back into the path of A. The speed of play in this routine
will give your players the best chance of getting a cross into the box, and therefore an
attempt on goal.
"When people talk about throw-ins, they think it’s a long throw-in and you head it on. We
want to have the ball after these throw-ins."
- Jurgen Klopp -
Player Roles
A – Throw in taker

B & C – Positioned 5 yards apart, in line with the thrower. Ready to expose the target area.
D & F – On the edge of the penalty area, ready to react to any balls into the box.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support close to the thrower if needed, but also there to prevent
counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Throw ball towards target area, for C to run on to.
B & C – Make crossover runs. B to act as a blocker for C. Player C to make run towards target
area, receiving ball from A.
D & F – On the edge of the penalty area, ready to react to any balls into the box.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support close to the thrower if needed, but also there to prevent
counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to react to any loose balls.
B – Hold position to allow C to expose target area.

C – Deliver ball across the 6 yard box.

D & F – Make diagonal runs to front and back post.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support. Also there to prevent counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles

A – Ready to react to any loose balls.

B – Ready to react to any loose balls.
C – Ready to react to any loose balls.
D & F – Aim to make an attempt on goal. Ready to react to any rebounds.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support. Also there to prevent counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

COACHING POINTS
Player B probably has the most important role in this routine. Firstly, they must act
interested in receiving the ball when they make their run. This means their marker will be
more likely to follow their run. Secondly, being smart enough to act as a blocker for C, but
without making a foul will determine whether or not the next phase of the routine will be
successful. From here, the quality of the pass from C is vital to give the players in the penalty
area a chance of scoring.
"You can say it is pretty simple, it's just a throw-in. But if you have the ball, you can create a
chance, score a goal, or just keep possession and maintain control."
- Thomas Gronnemark -
Player Roles
A – Throw in taker

B & C – Positioned close together, in line with the thrower. Ready to expose the target area.
D & F – On the edge of the penalty area, ready to react to any balls into the box.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support close to the thrower if needed, but also there to prevent
counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Throw ball into B.
B & C – Split apart, looking to receive the ball from A.
D & F – On the edge of the penalty area, ready to react to any balls into the box.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support close to the thrower if needed, but also there to prevent
counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Make quick run into target area, receiving the return pass from B.
B & C – B to play return pass into path of A. C to hold position, allowing target area to be
exposed.
D & F – Make diagonal runs towards front and back post.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support. Also there to prevent counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles

A – Play low pass across the 6 yard box, for D and F to latch on to.
B & C – Ready to react to any loose balls.
D & F – Make diagonal runs towards front and back post.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support. Also there to prevent counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to react to any loose balls.
B & C – Ready to react to any loose balls.

D & F – Aim to get an attempt on goal. Ready to react to any rebounds.

E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support. Also there to prevent counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
COACHING POINTS
Player A must be switched on and alert in this routine. As soon as they throw the ball to B, a
burst of speed to get into the target area and receive the return pass is required. Player B
should aim to play a cushioned pass on their first touch (if possible) back into the path of A.
"Anyone can play a game of football. The real players have a practice ethic about them." -
Sir Alex Ferguson -
Player Roles
A – Throw in taker
B & C – Positioned close together, one behind the other, ready to expose the target area.
D & F – In positions to receive the ball in an attacking position.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support close to the thrower if needed, but also there to prevent
counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles

A – Throw in taker
B & C – B to make run towards A, before spinning away to create space for C.
D & F – In positions to receive the ball in an attacking position.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support close to the thrower if needed, but also there to prevent
counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles

A – Throw ball to C
B & C – B to hold central position. C to expose target area and receive ball from A.
D & F – In positions to receive the ball in an attacking position.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support close to the thrower if needed, but also there to prevent
counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to receive a return pass from C if required.

B & C – B to hold central position. C will aim to recycle the ball with inside pass to G.
D & F – In positions to receive the ball in an attacking position.
E & G – Positioned centrally. G will look to receive the ball from C.
H – In a position of support close to the thrower if needed, but also there to prevent
counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance. I to make forward run with
intention of receiving the ball.
Player Roles
A – Ready to receive the ball if required.

B & C – Ready to receive the ball if required

D & F – In positions to receive the ball in an attacking position.
E & G – Positioned centrally. G will aim to switch the ball to I if possible.
H – In a position of support, but also there to prevent counter attacks.
I & J – J to hold position centrally. I to receive the ball from G, ready to expose space down
the left side of the pitch.
COACHING POINTS
Player B has a vital role in this routine as they aim to create space for their teammates in
order to retain possession. This may look a simple routine, but it can be highly effective if
done correctly, and has the ability to spark an attack down the opposite flank. Therefore,
player I must be alert and anticipate any switch of play.
"Wherever we think there is an edge to be found, we will seek it out."
- Ankerson -
Player Roles
A – Throw in taker
B – Positioned in the area, ready to receive the ball from A.
C – Positioned close to the thrower, ready to expose the target area.
D & F – In positions on the edge of the penalty area, ready to react to any balls into the box.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support if needed, but also there to prevent counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Throw ball into B.

B – Make run towards the thrower, aiming to receive the ball from A
C – Positioned close to the thrower, ready to expose the target area.
D & F – In positions on the edge of the penalty area, ready to react to any balls into the box.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support if needed, but also there to prevent counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to receive a return pass if needed.
B – Look to lay ball off to C in the target area.
C – Make run into target area, with aim of receiving ball from B.
D & F – Make curved runs towards back post, ready to react to any balls into the box.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support if needed, but also there to prevent counter attacks.
I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.
Player Roles
A – Ready to receive a return pass if needed.

B – Ready to react to any loose balls.

C – Look to get an attempt on goal, aiming for the far post.
D & F – Make curved runs towards back post, ready to react to any balls into the box.
E & G – Positioned centrally in a position of support and also there to prevent counter
attacks.
H – In a position of support if needed, but also there to prevent counter attacks.

I & J – On the halfway line to provide cover and balance.

COACHING POINTS
The timing of the run from C will determine the success of this routine. Once again, they
must act uninterested in receiving the ball before making their run towards the target area.
This gives them the best opportunity to gain half a yard and therefore having a better
chance of having an attempt on goal.
"The ferocity and endeavour Steven Gerrard showed was the first thing that struck me about
life at Liverpool. It was just short training games we played, but you would have thought his
life depended on it, the way he went at it."
- Gary McAllister -
The Numbers Behind The Theory
Set pieces play a dominant role in football. Whether it is a corner, a free kick or a throw-in,
they always have and always will be prominent in the game. So far, we have delved in to
how we can expose the opposition with the use of a set piece. However, understanding why
they are so important cannot be ignored.

So, here are a few statistics to back up the theory:

A typical football match will have an average of 10 corners, 35 free kicks and
45 throw-ins over the course of 90 minutes.

This amounts to 90 opportunities (or 45 per team) in a game to either retain possession or
create a goal scoring chance. When you consider that some teams may not have many shots
from open play, particularly in a tight game or a game where your team aren't playing well,
being able to create multiple attempts on goal from a set piece is not something that should
be taken for granted.

On average, around 25% of goals scored in a league season come from set
pieces.

Although the statistic above is based on a full league season, the set piece performance of
the English National side in the 2018 World Cup cannot be underestimated. 75% of all their
goals in the tournament came from a set piece, a new record for the competition. Gareth
Southgate identified that this was an area he could exploit and used it to their advantage.
Another team that have applied more focus on this aspect of the game is Lincoln City during
the 2017/18 season, with 46% of all their goals in a season coming from set pieces. I would
suggest searching YouTube for some of their set pieces (both England and Lincoln City) and
you will see for yourself that these goals have come by design, and not luck. Two teams who
play at very different levels have been able to expose the opposition, largely through
preparation and attention to detail.

On average, most teams lose possession on a throw-in over 50% of the time.

Before Thomas Gronnemark was hired by Liverpool Football Club, they had one of the worst
records in the Premier League when it came to retaining possession from a throw-in.
However, since the Dane came on board, Jurgen Klopp's side now retain possession 68% of
the time, transforming them to the best performing side in England and second best in
Europe. The top performing side, FC Midtjyland, just so happen to have also been coached
by Thomas Gronnemark. As I stated earlier, these statistics are a product of design, not luck.
 The clubs who invest the time into set pieces are clearly reaping the rewards. It is not
something that can be thrown together. It requires attention to detail, preparation and
repetition. But the numbers highlighted above clearly indicate that the end product will be
well worth it.
The Final Word
The aim of this book was to give you some guidance when it comes to creative set pieces. I
hope it has done that. I mentioned earlier that football is an ever changing game. Players
and coaches will always need to adapt and the same rule applies during set pieces. Having
analysed the routines in this book, you may find that adapting or tweaking something
slightly may suit your team better. It may be that the players need to improvise half way
through a routine because of the reaction from the opposition. And this is all absolutely
fine. It is what makes football unique and why no two games are ever the same. Giving your
players the tools and confidence to improvise when needed will only benefit them in the
long term and combining this with the detail in these routines will only assist in developing
them further as players. And nothing is more important or rewarding than that as a football
coach.
 Acknowledgement
Thank you to Fernando at Tactical Pad for allowing permission to use images and creations
from the app throughout this book.

Visit www.tacticalpad.com for more information on how to download the app.

Like what you’ve read? Tweet @TheTacticalView and let us know!