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Technique

Footwork and Movement

Improve your footwork patterns, positioning adjustments, and movement efficiency.

Quality footwork is the foundation of good goalkeeping. Efficient movement allows you to adjust your position quickly, set yourself properly for saves, and cover ground effectively. Modern goalkeepers need diverse footwork patterns including shuffle steps, crossover steps, and explosive movements whilst maintaining balance and readiness to react.

Key Points

1Use shuffle steps for small adjustments to maintain your set position
2Employ crossover steps for covering larger distances quickly
3Keep your weight on the balls of your feet, ready to move in any direction
4Reset your feet before making a save to maximise power and balance
5Practice footwork patterns until they become automatic and instinctive

Training Drills

✓Ladder drills focusing on quick feet and coordination
✓Shuffle and dive pattern work between cones
✓Footwork and save combination drills
✓Reaction drills with varied movement patterns before each save
✓Agility circuit incorporating different footwork techniques

Learn From the Pros

Ederson's quick feet when adjusting position during build-up playAlisson Becker's efficient movement across the goalDavid Raya's footwork when positioning for savesAaron Ramsdale's athletic footwork and recovery speed

Ask FootballGPT

“What's the difference between shuffle steps and crossover steps?”

“How can I improve my footwork speed?”

“Should I be on my toes or flat-footed?”

“How do I reset my feet quickly for saves?”

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use shuffle steps versus crossover steps?

Use shuffle steps for small positional adjustments and when you need to be ready to react immediately. They keep you balanced and set. Use crossover steps when you need to cover larger distances quickly, such as when the ball switches sides. Reset to your set position after crossover steps.

Why do coaches emphasise being on the balls of your feet?

Being on the balls of your feet allows for quicker reactions in any direction. If your weight is back on your heels, you'll be slower to move forwards or sideways. This ready position is fundamental to effective goalkeeping.

How do I improve my footwork speed and agility?

Regular ladder drills, cone work, and agility exercises build the neuromuscular patterns needed. Plyometric training improves explosive power. Most importantly, practice footwork patterns combined with actual saves so the movement becomes automatic during matches.

What does "resetting your feet" mean before a save?

It means getting both feet planted and your weight balanced before the shot or cross arrives. This gives you maximum power to push off in any direction. Making saves whilst still moving or with poor foot positioning significantly reduces your effectiveness.

Expert Advisors

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Sports Scientist

Fitness and conditioning

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General Coach

All-round coaching

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Academy Mind

Academy pathway U13-U18

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