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How to use substitutes
What to say to players
Who should be substituted?
Should the sub go after a specific amount of time?
Peter Tann, an experienced coach says: "Personally I do not adopt a rigid ‘you will go on after 60 minutes’ approach for three reasons. Firstly, if this is told to the player early on, then their preparation is very narrowly focused and if the plan changes and they come on earlier/later than expected then they may be under-prepared and perform poorly.
"Secondly, there are so many variables in a game that are beyond your control as coach, that I believe rigid plans are too easily disrupted. Instead, I give subs an indication of the circumstances in which they are most likely to come on but always with the caveat that these circumstances may change.
"Thirdly, a rigid approach may have a negative impact upon the player replaced."
Key rugby coaching tip
Communicate after the game and demonstrate the value you place on your substitutes by asking for, including (and acknowledging) their feedback in your post-game analysis. If they didn’t get on to the pitch, make a point of explaining why as soon as possible to the substitute(s) concerned. Acknowledge your substitutions' contributions publicly in the post-match team meeting, as well as individually.
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