What Scouts Look For And Tips For Players On Trial
This is a special article has been written by David Fairbrother, one of Birmingham City’s scouts.
I have previously interviewed David about his time in the game and it was published on 28th February. You can read the interview by clicking here.
- CARRY YOURSELF WELL
First impressions are everything. You have one chance to make a good initial impression to the scouts.
Time keeping is key, use the phrase 7 o’clock for 7.15. Always give yourself plenty of time.
Turn off your phone and music when appropriate, don’t wait to be asked.
What about how you dress? Do you carry yourself as if you want to make it? - DON’T FORCE IT
Play your normal game. You are being observed for your time on and off the ball. Take up the right positions and whether you get the ball or not.
You WILL be noticed for doing the right thing. DO THE SIMPLE THINGS WELL. - PLAY ON BOTH SIDES OF THE BALL
Every player needs to make a contribution EVERYWHERE. You have to work for your team in every direction. Defending starts from the front and attacks are built from the back. - BE VOCAL
Pass on the right information to your team mates, encourage them, NEVER CRITICISE. One piece of valuable information to your team is worth more than ten aimless ones. - STUDY THE GAME
Understand the principles of play and be aware of the tactics your team are trying to implement.
Understand the key factors in a skill or technique and its application.
Be open to advice when it’s offered. By doing this you will become a better player. - PLAY AT YOUR LEVEL
Play at the highest level you can in your position and regularly.
Scouts can’t watch you if you’re on the bench. - BE A TEAM PLAYER
Be positive with your team mates or fellow triallist. It’s a team game and you need to show you’re a part of that.
This can also be demonstrated by your approach to training. Train to your maximum every time, ensure you listen to the coaches, take in their advice and learn from what they’re telling you. - AIM FOR CONSISTENCY
If you perform consistently, scouts will get to hear about you.
SCOUTS TALK TO ONE ANOTHER REGULARLY
Pass on information to help individuals find their level. You are being observed all the time. - MAXIMISE YOUR EDUCATION…AIM HIGH
But be realistic how the football pyramid works. We can’t all reach the top, so be sure that you get the very best education you can.
It’s not only a back up, it will make you a better player and person too. - LOOK AFTER YOURSELVES
Take notice of the physiotherapist and do not play injured.
Your recovery depends on your attitude to the advice you receive.
Finally, good luck to you. It’s difficult as you will be playing alongside strangers, maybe in a formation that you’re not used to. It may restrict your best attributes but the scouts do know this and will definitely understand that.
The majority of trial days will have good staff who will talk with the scout. He will ask the coaches to play you in your favoured and strongest position.
Remember we are all in this together on the day. We are all aiming to give everyone the best opportunity to make their way in the game!
Dave Fairbrother
Northamptonshire FA Scout,
Birmingham City FC
About Author
