This Masterclass Webinar replay is a fantastic opportunity for you to explore the research behind scanning and awareness in football with Dave Eldridge, UEFA A licensed coach & lecturer at Chichester University in England.

“I spend the entire 90 minutes looking for space on the pitch. I’m always between the opposition’s two holding midfielders and thinking, ‘The defence is here, so I get the ball and I go there to where the space is.” – Xavi

The best players seem to always have time on the ball, even in a packed midfield they can find the right pass. How are they able to do this and what is the key skill in making better decisions when in possession of the football?

One part of the answer is scanning. Scanning (or visual exploratory activity), is when players perceive the picture around them and become more aware of the opponent, teammates, space, and the ball. This allows them to almost play one step ahead of the opposition and impact the game.

To discuss this fascinating topic, Dave Edridge is hosted by the UEFA A licensed coaches, Dave Wright and Dan Wright. Dave Eldridge is an expert in the analysis of sporting performance and has an MSc in Sports Performance Analysis. His main interests lie within the sport of football and specifically the area of player’s visual exploratory activity (VEA) or scanning.

This conversation covers:

  • What is scanning and why is it important?
  • What does the research say and how has it developed?
  • How do we design sessions that promote this key skill?
  • Video examples of the best players doing this in action for discussion
  • + Much more

Don’t miss a chance to gain insight into an area critical for young players development, including practical ideas to apply in your environment.

Image Credits: Deposit Photos

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