Prior to the upcoming home fixture versus Barnsley, Michael Skubala provided some insight on how he wants to impact the Imp’s style of play in the future.
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You can discuss what Michael Skubala has said ahead of this match here, and get involved with our pre-match discussion!
Leyton Orient: It was a really good night, the lads played well and dug in deep to get the result away from home, as you have to. The impact of the three substitutions was important and with the advent of five substitutions (MS refers to them as ‘finishers) that is now a significant factor within football. All of the players impacted the game in their own way, certainly Jovon Makama led the line and used his strength to give the Orient back line something to think about.
“It’s always great to get the wagon rolling if you like”. That said, the game has gone now and it is all about going after the three points against Barnsley.
The Michael Skubala Imprint: MS picked up on one of his previous themes about changing the style of play gradually given that the team are engaged in ‘two game’ weeks and he has to allow for interruptions to his coaching input such as recovery days. MS sees progress as a balance when he acknowledged the players were ingrained with some really good attributes courtesy of the work done by the previous coaches at the club. MS aims to add to that consistently, notwithstanding that will take time.
MS explained that he impresses upon the players about the need to have attacking spells with the ball for longer periods in the opposition half.
“I call it the tent pegs, put the tent pegs down, try and do that. Just to try and control a bit more in games”.
The team are still required to get higher up the pitch quickly, be exciting and aim to dominate the opponent. It is about finding a way when having possession in an opponent’s half to sustain the attacks for longer, thereby getting into positions to cause some damage.
MS touched upon the decision making aspect of the game, particularly relevant to the younger players. He highlighted the need for good decision-making, notably when out of possession for a spell; the importance of knowing when to take a risk to try and win the ball back as opposed to diving in and getting caught out positionally – whether to go in aggressively or avoiding ‘selling yourself’. In time MS is looking for the Imps to stamp their authority on the game.
Support Network: The players receive individual clips and feedback on their performances, looking at the little details like timing, spinning, touches that slow the game down, the areas where MS wants the side to play when in possession. The approach is designed to enable the players to understand how their individual roles assist the team with it’s overall structure.
Logan and other analysts are heavily involved in that process – crunching the stats. and data. The ‘team’ that Lincoln have built around what MS refers to as ‘performance services’ is really good. The group are very hard-working and honest in their approach. They support the technical staff and ergo the players every day.
“What you see on a Saturday is a product of what you do every day….what we do every day (win or lose) you should see on the pitch really”.
Barnsley: MS recognised Barnsley as a good opponent to face in front of an expected large crowd – something the players thrive upon. Although they lost in midweek, the Tykes fielded a much-changed side given their probable focus on the importance of the league competition. Teddy Bishop is back in training and it may or may not be too early to involve him at the weekend. The other long-term injured players continue their hard work to get back to fitness.
Writer: hulloutpost
Skubala: "I call it the tent pegs, put the tent pegs down, try and do that."https://t.co/1Ore1gaAM6#WeAreImps #BarnsleyFC #Barnsley
— Vital Lincoln City (@VitalLincoln) November 24, 2023
