Loop for the extra man

The loop pulls in defenders and creates space for your runners. The passer follows his pass and takes a return pass on the outside of the receiver, thus creating an extra player in attack. It can be used in isolation or as part of a set piece move.

Warm up time: 7-10
Session time: 10-15
Development time: 10-15
Game time: 15-20
Warm down time: 7-10

What to think about

• When is it most effective to use a loop in a game?It doesn’t need to be a pre-planned move and players should naturally aim to pass and loop. However any loop requires confidence and communication.
• What simple set moves can you come up with using a loop?Any move where you want the ball to go wide. A loop will tie in the opposition’s midfield defenders who are covering the extra man.
• During a game who should call the loop – the player looping or the passer?It’s best called by the player looping, although as long as your players are consistent it can be either.

set-up

1. Pass accurately then follow the ball, running behind the receiver.
2. Receiver: give a soft pop pass to the looping player.
3. Both players: accelerate onto the pass and straighten up.

What you get your players to do

Work three players across the square. The ball carrier runs out and gives a pass to the second player who accelerates onto the ball. The first player loops round and runs onto a pop pass straightening up after receiving the ball. The final player runs at pace onto a short pass before popping the ball to the first player in the next group. Continue in a cyclical fashion with the players experiencing all three roles.