In this coaching clinic filmed exclusively for CV Academy, Richard Walker, then the lead professional development phase coach at Stoke City, describes a session he would put on to develop his team’s ability to defend the box.

The session, which Walker explains using the Coaches’ Voice tactics board, is split into three practices. The first includes two 1v1 defending scenarios that run at the same time – one in wide areas, designed for the full-backs, and another in central areas that works the centre-backs. This then progresses into an 8v6 in which the defending team, set up with four defenders and two midfielders, has to operate underloaded against the attacking team in facing a number of different defensive situations. The final practice is a 7v7 (plus goalkeepers) small-sided game that can incorporate various conditions to further work on the defensive principles and situations covered in the first two practices.

It’s a great defensively themed session that is clearly and concisely explained by a top coach. We hope you find it useful in your own coaching!

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