Ian H Mackay’s Post

"Beyond Talent: The Critical Role of Character in Shaping Football Teams" In football, a player's skill is very important, but their character is just as crucial for a team's success. Tottenham's head coach, Ange Postecoglou, shared a his thoughts in a video by "Keep It on the Deck." He said he values a player's character over their skill because the difference in skill between players is small, but character can make a big difference. This is something I strongly believe in and follow too. Having even one player with the wrong attitude can cause problems in the team. Such players can lower the team spirit and affect how well the team works together. Postecoglou believes that a player's good character is what truly makes a great player, because it helps the whole team perform better, not just themselves. I agree with Postecoglou and always choose players who fit well with the team's values and spirit over those who might be slightly more skilled but don't match the team culture. A team that gets along well and shares the same goals can achieve more than a team with just individual talent. Some people might think only skills matter in top-level football, but teams with strong unity and shared values often beat more talented teams. These are the teams that fans love and remember. Following Postecoglou's approach, I focus on building a team where everyone works together and supports each other. Character is key to turning a good team into a great one. It's not just about having talented players, but about creating a team that shares the same dedication and goals. In my experience with football, I've learned that being a good person is as important as being a good player. Players who show respect, work well with others, and stay positive don't just play better; they inspire everyone around them. They become heroes to young fans and show that being a good sport matters in life, not just in football. I've seen how players who tackle problems with courage and positivity can lift up their teams and fans. This makes our team stronger and connects us more deeply with our supporters, showing that football can bring hope and togetherness. Putting character first in our team helps us do more than just win games; it helps us make a positive impact. It shows that we value players not just for their skills but for who they are as people. This belief has always guided me, aiming to build not just a team but a legacy that goes beyond football. Football is more than a game to me. It's a way to teach important life lessons like teamwork and honesty. My commitment to these values is about making the sport better and making a positive change in the world. Video Credit: Keep It On The Deck #TeamSpirit #GoodCharacter #principals #togetherstronger #coachvalues #playingphilosophy #FootballValues #playerculture #players #playerdevelopment #football #tottenham #foodbusiness #playercharacter #teamethos #BeAGoodSport #teamworkmatters #FootballValues

Life is synonymous to football pitch that houses different players. During the football match, irrespective of who holds the ball, there are always players running after him. This of course come with different intentions or reasons. Let's start from the team of the player holding the ball. Some of his players will be running after him in order to create chance, chance to allow him move freely, chance to be able to make pass his opponents and pass the ball to his fellow players. From the opponents side, the players will of course will be running after him, if not attacking the very player controlling the ball. Clearly with the intention to get the ball, and if possible tactically do something bad to the player controlling the ball. The main point here is whoever is controlling or having the ball will have many people to deal with, from his own team and that of the opponents. Unless he passes the ball, all the concern players will of course be running after him. The application of this........ In real life, you will have many people to do with once you've made it in life or become somebody to reckon with in the society. Just like the person having the ball in the pitch. You've got nothing to worry about if you've nothing but the case is otherwise once you've. So, within your circle like the fellow team players of the player controlling the ball. You're definitely surrounded with people with different intentions or people with different motives running after you. Some are there to create and further strengthen you in order to sour higher, others are running after you whether you will reach the pick or not, why some are simply around to see nothing but your downfall. Regardless of the place you found yourself - education, career, fashion, politics, business etc. The competitors are always there. It's left for you to either outsmart and play them to their heart content or allow them to drag you down. The main point as I've noted above, you can't devoid from these people as long as you've something to reckon with. So, it's the issue you've to deal with. The person controlling the ball is surround with players, both from his side and that of the opponents with different intentions. The same apply to you as a successful person who are surrounded with people, from your side and other competitors just because you've made it. That you're made is the ball. So, it's left for you whether you let go of the ball (the zoo) on your own accord or carve way for yourself. You've to know that people of this nature are everywhere, unless you want to remain at the bottom. The moment you envisage to carve your name and edge it in the heart of human. You want to be somebody to reckon with or person of value in the society. Then, be ready to deal with this kind of people. You've got to decide once you hold the ball (make it in life), to succumb to the noises around you or outsmart them. This decision is entirely yours to make. Ayeni Ekundayo

Football is never just football. A very important eye is required for football. This doesn't happen to everyone. It is a divine power. This eye discovers excellent talent. Then, with this player's loading phase, it takes the player to the perfect level. To understand football, you must have played this sport. In the player group of this sport, talents who have dominated the game with their game mind and technique are more likely to discover the football player. Many talents say goodbye to football in a very short time. In younger age groups, football life ends when players fall behind in training for a period of 2-3 years. Many football players are disappearing before the eyes of many clubs. Building a system is not enough. Establishing a facility is not enough. It is important to have the knowledge to discover real talent and bring it to the level of perfect football player. Everyone thinks they know football. No, football is not an easy game. Football is the most dangerous sport in the world. If these are missing in educational knowledge, it will also affect development in this direction. In order to do this sport, you need to have the right training.

Often the starting point, to evaluate a player, is the coach's structure The coach devises a certain strategy in attacking, defending and transition. And he links this to a number of tasks he expects from the players The player plays a certain position and the coach evaluates the player on performance in this structure. In itself logical to measure and optimise the player's performance. After all, a player has to play a role within a team of 11 players But you can also take the player as a starting point. What are the player's qualities? What is he really good at? What do I need to encourage to take him to the next level? And what could be better? How do I put him in situations where he explodes, takes risks? How do I make sure he makes strides every day? How do I give him the confidence to develop? In youth football, structure plays a big role. Players need handles to take further steps. Giving structure in attacking, defending and transition, gives a creative framework that the player can build on. Giving clarity 'how we want to play football' is important foundation But if we want youth footballers to excel, we need to encourage and evaluate the qualities above all. Support the typical strengths and propel them to the highest level. Address and brush up on the weaker sides. Not based on the coach's structure, but mainly from the player's structure (strengths and working points) A way of playing football (a style of play), is an important supporting factor in developing footballers, but the individuality of the player is leading The player is our guide in evaluating the game and developing the style of play

I always dream of being in the dugout! Talking to and motivating the players of my favorite football team in the English Premier League. Assessing players of the opposing team(s) and giving instructions to my players on the sidelines. It will only be a dream. I know nothing about managing professional footballers. Whose salaries are astronomical as compared to the man on the street and professionals. I know nothing about tactics, training sessions, etc. Let alone total football as invented by the great and late Johan Cryuff and innovated to tiki taka football by Pep Guardiola. I know nothing about team dynamics. Players recruitment, selections etc. So much more. In short, I am a dummy when it comes to football management. To say that I am an unofficial armchair manager is a flattery given my naive thinking that is still confined to loving and enjoying football in the yesteryears. The likes of "Road to Wembley". Nothing could be further from the truth. In this area of my life, I love living in fantasy! Because of that, I indulged myself in fantasy football. It started in 1992 when Championship Manager came to life and thereafter FM. Faithfully, I bought and upgraded the games every season. I spent time after school and work glued to my desktop and worked on my selection of players just before the weekends come. Nothing has changed. I switched to Fantasy Premier League (FPL) more than 10 years ago. And the rest is history. In this game, we join private leagues and manages our team. We have our first 11 players and 4 reserves. We are only allowed to choose a maximum of 3 players from my desired or favorite team for every game. And we have a limited budget of 100 million pounds. I relish the moments when the transfer market opens as I will consider and assess new or superstar players and manage the budget allows. Too bad Kylian Mbappé is in the La Liga and not the EPL. Those familiar with FPL will know that we will see the points allotted to our players after each game and we are only allowed to make one transfer subject to our remaining budget. It was never easy. I learnt: 1. To choose a second best if the first and preferred option is never going to happen. Life is too short for regrets. Be contented. 2. There is a season for everything under the sun. For now, EPL has started and it will be exciting once again! Let's chill, relax and enjoy the game over a meal or drink. We will be refreshed once again when Monday returns! FPL has evolved over the years and the game is huge today. It is regularly featured in tier 1 media outlet, including, but not limited to, the New York Times. To my #linkedin FPL, the season has started. How is your team this weekend? Below is my team selection. Please feel free to give your feedback or comments! :) #legalncompliance #corporatecounsel #fantasypremierleague

Two thoughts today for players… One… Footballers: every training session is an opportunity to become a better detective. Someone who detects clues related to space, to movement, to players and to the ball.… Every training session is a chance to get better at staying connected to the game… …connected to tactical responsibilities …connected to the relationship between space, the ball, team mates, and opposition …connected to personal objectives …connected to the evolving challenges as problems emerge and dissolve Every training sessions is a chance for players to get better at staying connected to the game… …through external distractions…noise that doesn’t matter …through internal distractions…thoughts and sensations that aren’t relevant Every training session is a chance for players to get better at staying connected to the game…to be a better detective of the vital clues that show themselves amidst a mountain of information… ********************** Two… Confidence in football isn't something that's owned forever… It must be patiently worked on everyday. Footballers must strive to practice passing with confidence, moving with confidence, challenging with confidence...even holding themselves with confidence. Every activity, in every session, every day…and in every game…these are your opportunities to grow your confidence… So do so… Aim to execute every action every second in a confident manner…confident passes, confident runs, confident movement, confident challenges… Show yourself your own brand of personal confidence…emblazon evidence of confident play on every muscle… It’s an every activity and every session and every game thing!

“We won!” “No, they won, you watched.” ~ Jerry Seinfeld September means football finals time in Australia for various codes. It’s always a great time of the year. But why are people so passionate about football? There are several reasons, including: 1. **Sense of Belonging and Community**: Football creates a strong sense of belonging. Fans connect with teams, cities, or even countries, and supporting a football team can make them feel part of a larger community. This shared identity fosters camaraderie and loyalty. 2. **Emotional Engagement**: The excitement, tension, and unpredictability of football make it emotionally engaging. Every game can bring a rollercoaster of emotions—joy, heartbreak, hope—which keeps fans deeply invested. 3. **Cultural Significance**: In many parts of the world, football is more than just a sport; it’s part of the culture. Traditions, histories, and regional rivalries add layers of meaning to the game, making it a way of life for many. 4. **Global Appeal**: Football is played and watched everywhere in various forms, making it accessible and relatable to people from different walks of life. This global appeal unites diverse groups of people through a common passion. 5. **Heroism and Role Models**: Many people admire football players for their skill, athleticism, and dedication. Star players often become role models, inspiring young people to dream and pursue their goals. 6. **Social Experience**: Watching football is a social activity. Whether at the stadium or at home, fans enjoy sharing the experience with friends and family. Celebrations and debates about the game deepen the connections people feel with one another. 7. **Strategic Depth**: Football combines athleticism with strategy. Fans who appreciate tactics and formations enjoy the intellectual aspect of the game, adding to their passion. These factors together make “football” a sport that resonates deeply with people worldwide.

🔴⚪️ Reflecting on a Journey Through Football: Arsène Wenger's "My Life in Red and White" 📚 As a figure whose career has profoundly shaped modern football, Arsène Wenger's autobiography, "My Life in Red and White," offers an deep dive into the experiences, philosophies, and innovations of one of the game's most respected minds. Starting his journey in the modest surroundings of Duttlenheim, France, Wenger’s early passion for football set the stage for a remarkable career. The book outlines his developmental years, moving from player to manager, and the lessons learned at clubs like AS Nancy, AS Monaco, and Nagoya Grampus Eight. Each chapter not only details his professional milestones but also delves into Wenger's personal growth, reflecting on the failures and successes that shaped his approach to management and life. The heart of Wenger’s story lies in his transformative tenure at Arsenal. Taking charge in 1996, Wenger introduced groundbreaking changes in nutrition, training, and scouting, propelling the club to domestic and international success. His philosophy of playing beautiful football, while maintaining financial stability, set a new benchmark in the sport. Wenger candidly shares the challenges faced, including adapting to the Premier League, engaging in fierce rivalries, and navigating the emotional highs and lows of the game. Underlying Wenger’s narrative is a profound exploration of leadership. He discusses the importance of vision, resilience, and innovation in overcoming obstacles. Wenger’s reflections on developing young talent, fostering team unity, and his commitment to ethical management resonate beyond football, offering valuable insights for leaders in any field. Perhaps most compelling are Wenger's reflections on change and legacy. His tenure at Arsenal was marked by the beautiful game, but also by the evolution of football itself, from the influx of international talent to the technological advancements that have transformed how the sport is played and watched. Wenger's adaptability and foresight underscore a career not just defined by wins and losses, but by shaping the future of football. In "My Life in Red and White," Arsène Wenger doesn't shy away from the personal sacrifices required to reach the pinnacle of football management. His dedication to the game meant countless hours on the pitch, in training sessions, and analyzing matches, often at the expense of time with his family. Wenger openly reflects on the balance—or often, the imbalance—between his professional passions and personal life. It's a poignant reminder of the behind-the-scenes sacrifices made by those who live and breathe the sport. Wenger's story is not just about the glory and the triumphs; it's also about the unseen sacrifices that come with a life devoted to football. #ArseneWenger #MyLifeInRedAndWhite #Football #Leadership #Innovation #Arsenal #Autobiography #SportsManagement

Marking Akinfenwa is certainly one way to be introduced to men’s football. 😅 When breaking into the first team as a teenager, you don’t have the luxury of dipping your toe in the water to test the temperature. You’re straight in head first at the deep end, trying to prove that you can stay afloat. One minute you’re playing Saturday morning football in front of parents, the next you’re fighting for 3 points in front of thousands. From a development-first mentality, to a win-at-all-costs. Two different worlds. It’s the same in a corporate setting. There will be a time when you’re asked to step up - maybe into a more senior role or for a new business pitch. Usually finding yourself way out of your comfort zone. I had been integrated into the first team gradually, so when I made my debut I was already familiar with the environment and the manager’s way of working - but I still felt hugely out of my depth. Everything was faster, slicker. The touches were cleaner and the elbows felt sharper. You’d be punished for a misplaced pass or wrong decision. For many, this transition onto the big stage happens overnight. An injury, illness or suspension can open the door to your opportunity. The one you’ve been dreaming about since you started kicking a ball around. You’re expected to be ready; to grab it with both hands. I always wondered how we can best bridge that gap between the youth team dressing room and first team. How we can better prepare players for such a huge jump. But the more I think about it, it’s a gap that doesn’t need to be bridged. The EFL has been the breeding ground for many of our top English players. Bellingham, Maguire, Watkins, Walker - to name only a few - all came through EFL academies, while Pickford, Grealish, Kane, all spent time on loan in their teens. Sometimes it’s being thrown in when you’re not ready, by someone who recognises your talent, that is the making of you. Former Birmingham City manager Pep Clotet had experienced players he could select over a 16-year-old Jude Bellingham, but he believed in him and looked at it through a long-term lens, rather than a quick win - not an easy thing to do when you’re neck is on the line! The easy option would have been to choose the player who’s already established, or draft somebody in on loan to plug the gap. It’s a reminder to us all to create pathways for the next generation and give them the opportunity to fail. It’s the same with creating a new business, product or service that doesn’t exist. It’s convenient to go with the tried and tested. But without providing a platform for it to fail or succeed, we’d never know what they or it could achieve. Adebayo Akinfenwa 💪⚽️

Back on the Pitch: Lessons from 5-a-side Football for Mastering the Bidding Game After an 8-year hiatus, I returned to playing football a few weeks ago. It’s mixed ability indoor 5-a-side and it is the perfect reintroduction for me to get back into sport. The last time I played 8 years ago I broke my wrist, so playing again has been a nervous but exhilarating experience. I won’t lie though, it has been a struggle! The pain in my muscles afterwards has been immense, but I guess that means the exercise is working?! Matthew Mitchell often compares bidding with sport and I can’t disagree with him. It isn’t just the competitive nature that is similar, it is also the key ingredients that are required for success: Teamwork: Football teaches you that the strength of a team is each individual member, and the strength of each member is the team. In bidding, the best bids come about through collaboration, both internally at BidVantage, and with our clients, to create winning bids. Strategy: Just as a well-planned play can lead to a goal in football, a well-crafted bid strategy can set you apart from competitors and increase your win rates. Agility: On the football field, quick thinking and rapid response are key. In bidding, this translates to adapting swiftly to new market conditions and client needs. This return to football has not just been a journey back to a sport I love, but a reminder of the core skills that also can help in developing high-quality bids.