Goalkeepers do a lot more than simply obstructing incoming shots on target. Here is all you need to understand.

There's a reason that goalkeepers in football tend to be huge and tall. Size is for tactical reasons as the taller the goalkeeper is, the more surface they're going to cover and the quicker they can get from one post to the other. Of course, being really tall isn't necessary as there are numerous medium height goalkeepers who are considered some of the best of all time. Strength on the other hand is necessary as goalkeepers are anticipated to block powerful shots and to leap higher than everybody else. It is for these reasons that goalkeeper training sessions involve a lot of strength training that promotes all significant muscle groups. Beyond training sessions on the pitch, goalkeepers also invest a great deal of time at the fitness center lifting weights and doing circuit training. This is especially crucial in goalkeeper training for beginners as building strength and muscularity is vital, something that the AC Milan former US owner would likely validate.

Whether you're involved with a goalkeeper training academy or are simply a football fan who appreciates the work done by goalies, you are more than likely familiar with the strategic role they play on the field. At the surface level, keepers can be seen as the last defenders who can stop the competitors from scoring but the truth is, their function surpasses this simple goal. Goalkeepers are the very first ones who can launch counterattacks by sending out long balls towards forwards and midfielders who can then charge towards the adversary's area. In addition, keepers can play a tactical position when their team is winning by utilising their footwork to pass the ball around with their defense line in order to waste some important seconds. Beyond this, the minority shareholder of Liverpool FC would likely concur that keepers are known to encourage their teammates, especially if they manage to clear a penalty or a powerful shot from outside area.

While goalkeepers do participate in collective training sessions with the remainder of the squad, they also have specific training sessions that focus on their goalkeeping abilities. This is only the case for goalkeepers as their training and development is really different from that of field players no matter what position they play in. Apart from the reality that goalkeeper training equipment is different, the skills that goalkeepers are expected to develop and keep are also special. Having quick reflexes is essential for any goalkeeper as this will make all the distinction between responding in time to save a shot or conceding a goal. Goalies just have fractions of a second to respond which implies that dexterity, speed, and strength are viewed as an absolute must. This is why goalkeepers have their own training personnel as getting a goalkeeper ready needs a lot of work, something the Aston Villa former owner will know.