Filmed exclusively for CV Academy, Welsh professional football manager Nathan Jones leads Bournemouth’s Under-21 players in this match preparation session, which focuses on turning effective defensive shapes into clinical counter-attacks.

The session replicates one delivered by Jones on matchday minus one, before his then Southampton team defeated Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in the 2022/23 Carabao Cup. 

Following a warm-up and activation that prepares the players for this high-intensity session, Jones uses the first practice to focus on the specific defensive roles of units and individuals, in two different formations. This leads into a counter-attacking wave game, designed to encourage attacking principles to quickly capitalise on winning possession.

The final practice is an 11v11 themed game in which the players’ learning is tested.

It is a high-intensity session driven with clarity and enthusiasm by Jones, a highly experienced first-team head coach, who was subsequently appointed Charlton Athletic manager. We hope you enjoy it!

Please also click below to access the accompanying session plan in PDF form.