Communication and Leadership: The Key Skills for Centre Backs
Developing Communication and Leadership Skills
How do you develop the communication skills that scouts are seeking? First, you need to earn the respect of your teammates by offering clear, constructive guidance. Shouting vague or negative comments at your team will do more harm than good. Instead, focus on building a cohesive defensive unit where teamwork makes the whole greater than the sum of its parts.
Learning from Football’s Great Defenders
Let’s take a moment to reflect on one of the Premier League’s most famous defensive units: the Arsenal back four of the 1990s. Led by Tony Adams, this group of defenders—Lee Dixon, Steve Bould, and Nigel Winterburn—became known for conceding the fewest goals in the league, year after year. What made them so successful wasn’t just individual skill, but their ability to communicate and work together as a unit. They were led by Adams, who took on the responsibility of being the vocal leader on the field.
Another prime example is Rio Ferdinand, who joined Manchester United for a record £30 million in 2002. Sir Alex Ferguson made the investment because he saw Ferdinand’s leadership qualities as essential to building a strong defensive foundation. Similarly, when Liverpool bought Virgil Van Dijk for £76 million in 2018, it was for his ability to command the defence and lead by example. These players didn’t just defend; they orchestrated the team’s defensive efforts, guiding their teammates and anticipating threats before they became dangerous.
The Importance of Communication at Trials
At our trials, scouts are looking for players who can demonstrate these leadership qualities. Many players remain too quiet on the pitch, and scouts often mention how they “can’t hear” enough communication. An occasional shout of “man on” is not enough. Centre backs need to be in constant communication with their teammates, ensuring that blind side runs don’t go unnoticed and that defensive shape is maintained.
While you don’t need to provide a running commentary during our trials, scouts want to see evidence of leadership. A good centre back ensures the defensive unit operates smoothly by talking through the game and guiding their fellow defenders. Even if you’re not the most skilled player on the pitch, strong communication can elevate the whole team’s performance, much like the Arsenal back four did.
Become the Leader Scouts Are Looking For
If you want to stand out at a trial, be the centre back who leads the defensive line. Forge a strong understanding with your fellow defenders and communicate clearly throughout the game. Remember, you don’t need to be the best individual player to create a formidable defensive unit—leadership and teamwork can make all the difference.