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ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to evaluate physiological and technical attributes of prepubertal soccer players during multiple small-sided games (SSGs), and determine if SSGs can act as a talent identification tool. Sixteen highly trained U10 soccer players participated and separated into two groups of eight. Each group played six small-sided (4 vs. 4) matches of 5-min duration. Each player was awarded total points for the match result and goals scored. A game technical scoring chart was used to rate each player’s performance during each game. Time-motion characteristics were measured using micromechanical devices. Total points had a very large significant relationship with game technical scoring chart (r = 0.758, P < 0.001). High-speed running distance had a significantly large correlation with game technical scoring chart (r = 0.547, P < 0.05). Total distance covered had a significant and moderate correlation with game technical scoring chart (r = 0.545, P < 0.05) and total points (r = 0.438, P < 0.05). The results demonstrated a large agreement between the highest-rated players and success in multiple SSGs, possibly due to higher-rated players covering larger distances in total and at high speed. Consequently, multiple SSG could be used to identify the more talented prepubertal soccer players.
Acknowledgements
We would like to thank the players who participated in this study. We would also like to thank Tom Hulme, Aaron Sharpes, Jonathan Piper and Chris West for their assistance in data collection. The input and guidance from Professor Barry Drust (Liverpool John Moores University), and Mr. Steve Barrett (Hull City FC) has been greatly appreciated. Lastly, we would like to thank Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club for their cooperation and support.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.