Soccer Strategies: Defensive and Attacking Tactics

This is the first book I bought on the subject and I love it. It has some pretty good drills divided by player skill level, and I would say it is a great book for a beginner or more advanced coach. It is a helpful reference if you are a player as well.

This is a wonderful, short and direct book exploring the benefits and deficiencies of subtle tactical changes within soccer formations. The level of detail is eneergizing when combined with the thorough discussion of formational decisions that evolve from offensive and defensive soccer strategies. A quick, direct read that you will re-read to be thoroughly saturated by the nuances of the game of soccer.

A good introduction to soccer strategy, and excellent review of the most accepted playing systems. It's not only suitable for coaches, but also for players and tv fans interested in getting an understanding of the sport's dynamics.

Great book for covering all the major issues of attacking and defending. If you want to know where your defenders or forwards should position to maximize their position, this is a great book. There are many simple basic diagrams that are uncluttered, showing just the players involved in the play and this is a plus for sharing information with your players! The book does not cover any drills for achieving these desired results, but I consider it a must read for the coach considering the 4-4-2, 4-3-3, or 3-5-2 formations. Buy with confidence, this book will refresh your positioning and playing coaching skills as well as providing a way to copy handouts for your players from the many diagrams this book provides!

As stated on the back cover, this book is "aimed primarily at intermediate and advanced coaches" and "examines the principle formations used in modern soccer..." It states these formations clearly (along with diagrams) and discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each. It is a great resource for the coach who is looking to develop the appropriate offensive and defensive systems. The book does not cover other issues such as team management or practice drills. Look elsewhere for that.