Being a midfielder is demanding as there are so many different attributes you need to be effective in the centre of the park. I played at the top level for a number of years and I'm still learning about the position. But there are several simple skills which you can work on in practice and apply to your game to make yourself a better player. The key in taking things from the training ground to the pitch is repetition, keep running through things until they become second nature. You shouldn’t think about constantly looking around you, it should be something that comes naturally. You shouldn’t think about applying opposite movement, it should be an instinctive move. The only way for this to happen is to work on honing these skills week-in week-out at training.
The drills I took LSPL side Avro FC through are a good starting point. If you can work these into your routine I’m confident that you’ll see an improvement in your midfield, which will make your whole team more effective.
Midfield Master Class - Questions & Answers
Gary Speed talks about his experiences in the game.
In top level football these days talent is not enough, you need phenomenal fitness levels in order to exert an influence on the game from first minute to last.
Playing in the middle of the park is the most physically demanding position on the pitch. From tracking back and protecting the back four to driving forward and getting beyond the strikers to score, the midfield is the engine room of any team.
I took LSPL side Avro FC through a series of drills and games designed to test your fitness and touch to the limit. Watch the video, download the training drills PDF and try them for yourself, and you’ll have a finely tuned midfield engine in no time.
Midfield Master Class - Questions & Answers
Gary Speed talks about his experiences in the game.
Gary Speed is one of the most respected players of his generation having played in the top flight of English football for over 21 years. He is currently playing for Sheffield United where he has also taken on a coaching role after successfully gaining all his UEFA coaching badges.
Gary holds the record for most appearances by an outfield player in the Premier League and also played 85 times for Wales, captaining the side until his retirement from international football in 2004.
Speed began his career with Leeds United playing a key role in helping them to the First Division title in 1992. He moved to Everton in 1996 and was named club captain before moving on to Newcastle United where he played in two FA Cup Finals and the Champions League.
Gary moved to Bolton Wanderers in July 2004 and became the first player to make 500 Premier League appearances. He has become known as a complete midfielder, noted for his tough tackling as well as being a free kick specialist.
Gary is a regular analyst for BBC Sport appearing on Football Focus, Final Score & Match of the Day 2 as well as doing co-commentary and punditry for BBC Five Live, Sky Sports and ESPN.