GOALKEEPER

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Your questions. Specialist answers.

Goalkeeper Development FAQs

Common questions. Expert answers.

These questions are based on some of the most common topics asked by developing goalkeepers. Each answer provides practical guidance and, where relevant, links to our Goalkeeper Development Programme.

1.How can I improve my positioning when facing shots?

Good positioning can make saving shots considerably easier.

Start by understanding the relationship between the ball, your goal and your position. Generally, you should aim to position yourself on the line between the ball and the centre of your goal.

As the ball moves, adjust your position accordingly.

Moving slightly forward can help narrow the angle available to the attacker, but moving too far forward can leave you vulnerable to shots over your head.

Work with your coach on recognising shooting situations, adjusting your starting position and getting set before the shot.

Remember: Good goalkeeping isn't just about making spectacular saves. It's about making difficult saves look straightforward.

2.I sometimes struggle to catch crosses. Should I stay on my line?

Not necessarily. Learning when to come for crosses is an important part of goalkeeper development.

The key is recognising which crosses you can realistically reach.

Consider the flight of the ball, the position of attacking players and whether you have a clear route to make the catch.

If you decide to come, communicate clearly with your defenders.

Practise judging different types of crosses, including high deliveries, driven crosses and balls played towards the far post.

You won't always make the correct decision, particularly while learning.

Remember: Making mistakes during development is part of learning to become a confident goalkeeper.

3.How can I improve my kicking and distribution?

Modern goalkeepers need to be comfortable distributing the ball with both their hands and feet.

However, successful distribution isn't simply about how far you can kick.

Accuracy, decision-making and selecting the appropriate pass are equally important.

Start by practising short passes with both feet, concentrating on your body position, first touch and passing technique.

Gradually introduce longer passes and different distribution methods.

During matches, look for opportunities to retain possession rather than automatically kicking the ball as far as possible.

Remember: The best distribution is the one that helps your team, not necessarily the longest kick.

4.What should I do when an attacker is running towards me in a one-on-one situation?

One-on-one situations require good positioning, patience and decision-making.

Your first responsibility is to assess the attacker's position, their control of the ball and the space available.

Moving forward can reduce the shooting angle, but rushing out too early may allow the attacker to take the ball around you.

Try to remain balanced and ready to react.

Watch the attacker's touch. A heavy touch may provide an opportunity to challenge for the ball, while a player with close control may require you to remain patient.

Practise these situations with your goalkeeper coach, varying the distance, angle and speed of the attacker.

Remember: You don't always need to win the ball. Sometimes delaying the attacker is enough to allow your defenders to recover.

5.How do I stop losing confidence after making a mistake?

Every goalkeeper makes mistakes, including those playing at the highest level.

What matters is how you respond.

After conceding a goal, try to focus on the next action rather than replaying the mistake in your mind.

Take a moment to reset, communicate with your teammates and prepare for the next phase of play.

After the match, reflect on what happened.

Was your starting position correct? Did you make the right decision? Was your technique appropriate?

Identifying something specific to improve is more productive than simply blaming yourself.

Discuss mistakes with your coach and use them to guide your development.

Remember: One mistake doesn't define your performance or your potential.

6.How can I become a better goalkeeper if my team doesn’t have a specialist goalkeeper coach?

Specialist coaching can be valuable, but there are still plenty of opportunities to develop without regular access to a goalkeeper coach.

Start by identifying the areas of your game you would most like to improve.

These might include handling, footwork, positioning, distribution or communication.

Work with your team coach to incorporate goalkeeper-specific activities into regular training.

You can also develop your understanding by watching experienced goalkeepers and observing their positioning and decisions throughout matches.

When watching, concentrate on what they do before making a save, not just the save itself.

Keep a record of your performances and identify one or two areas to work on each week.

Make use of specialist resources such as the Evidence Sports website, where you can explore goalkeeper-specific learning materials, practical guidance and development advice. Seek insights from experienced goalkeepers and qualified coaches, who can help you understand different aspects of the position and develop your game.

Remember: Improving your understanding of goalkeeping is just as important as developing your physical skills.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Common questions. Expert answers.

Your questions. Our expertise.