Loving the game and smashing it in midfield

Ask Chelsea’s N’Golo Kante how young players can learn from him and play like him and he will tell you: “They need to love the game. I loved it so much I played all the time. I played before school, at school, after school, then I’d go to my club and train or play a match, and after that I’d have another kick about with my friends until it got too dark!”

Chelsea’s N’Golo Kante in action with Southampton’s Shane Long

Keeping it simple: Kante breaks up the play and passes calmly. He does all the dirty work in midfield, breaking up play in front of Chelsea’s defence, but is also more than capable on the ball and is an efficient, clever passer. His energy and tireless, all-action displays have been key to Chelsea getting to the final of the FA Cup this season.

If you want your players to love the game try a couple of my favourite fun sessions and if you want smart midfielders at the same time you can use the four sessions that I use to create Kante’s of my own.

My favourite fun sessions – I use these games to cover the important decision making that young players find hard to come to terms with. Also counter attacking is an important to work on with your players. Start them young with these games:

Prison Break

in Fun soccer games, Soccer dribbling drills

Possession play and counter attack with these key skills: Anticipation, patience, interception, movement and quick, accurate passing. MORE

Steal the bacon

in Ball Control and Footwork, Small Sided Games

This fun training game helps your young players to develop their decision making and improve their team work. MORE

Sessions to help you create a strong midfielder for attacking and defending in this key area

Speed of play and penetration

in Attacking, Tactics

This session encourages players to get behind the defence using a progressive practice that builds up to 7v7 MORE

Defending 1v1 in midfield

in Defending, Small Sided Games

Pits the wits of defenders and attackers against each other in 1v1s within the main game. Plus use sweepers to give midfielders a ‘get out’ clause when their way ahead is blocked MORE

Handball midfield

in Attacking, Small Sided Games

This session encourages players to be aware at all times of where they are on the pitch and concentrate on getting the ball through to the shaded areas where they can shoot at goal . MORE

Control the game in midfield

in Midfield, Tactics

One thing that will help you control the pace of games and give you a winning edge is to have an effective midfield. This useful session will help your players learn how to pass the ball through midfield on the move MORE