Scanning in football is a critical skill that often goes unnoticed but can make a huge difference in a player’s performance on the pitch. From understanding the game better to making quick decisions, scanning plays a crucial role in a player’s success.
Former Chelsea and England midfielder Frank Lampard recently spent time with Manchester City’s Rodri, breaking down the Ballon d’Or winner’s game as part of a “midfield masterclass.” Lampard highlighted the importance of scanning in a player’s game, citing examples from his own career where scanning played a pivotal role in his decision-making on the pitch.
Geir Jordet, a professor at the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, has been studying scanning in football for over two decades. He explains that scanning is the act of looking away from the ball to gather information that can be used when engaging with the ball later. Players like Lampard, Xavi, and Messi are known for their exceptional scanning abilities, which allow them to anticipate plays and make quick decisions.
Scanning isn’t just about looking around aimlessly; it’s about gathering relevant information to make the best possible decision on the pitch. Players like Kevin De Bruyne, Martin Odegaard, and Sergio Busquets are known for their exceptional scanning skills, which help them navigate tight spaces and create opportunities for their team.
Developing scanning skills at a young age can set players up for success in their careers. Players like Rafferty Bolshaw, a 13-year-old Liverpool academy player, have been focusing on improving their scanning abilities through various training methods, including virtual reality headsets.
While scanning is often overlooked in professional training sessions, coaches like Arsene Wenger have emphasized its importance in player development. Wenger’s approach to training exercises that focus on increasing the gathering of information has shown positive results in player performance.
Defensive scanning is another crucial aspect of the game, as highlighted by Lampard. Understanding the importance of body shape and awareness of opponents can prevent defensive errors and lead to better decision-making on the pitch.
Overall, scanning in football is a valuable skill that can separate good players from great players. By emphasizing scanning in training sessions and individual feedback, coaches can help players improve their decision-making and performance on the pitch.
