Gareth Southgate: Simplifying tactics
Zonal marking, false nines, Christmas trees and catenaccio - how do you explain all that to 11 players? Keep it simple, says the former Middlesbrough boss
![](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2YZUveNTyqTXvUzinm78zm.jpg)
To reinforce their position as the boss, managers often waffle on about formations and tactics.
This often results in total confusion. Players get preoccupied with carrying out instructions, rather than trusting their instincts and taking the initiative.
Of course, tactics have their place in the game, but as manager it's important you don't indulge yourself.
Bamboozling the players with textbook talk is a common mistake, says former Middlesbrough boss, Gareth Southgate.
Whether you're using words, body language or a tactics boards, you've got to get your point across clearly and concisely.
Borrow the tips featured in this video interview with Southgate to make sure your tactical explanations inspire, rather than bewilder.
Gareth Southgate was talking at the World Football Academy: UK National Symposium. For more information visit www.worldfootballacademy.co.uk
Get FourFourTwo Newsletter
The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.
![LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 15: Thierry Henry and Ray Parlour of Arsenal with the Premier League trophy after the match between Arsenal and Leicester City in the Premier League at Highbury on May 15, 2004 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/cny2ryN67xNSodDtmtvUUh-840-80.jpg)
‘He could have been another Thierry Henry if he’d stayed at Arsenal. It was up to him what he wanted because he was 6ft 1in, quick and unbelievable’: Ray Parlour claims Champions League winner could have enjoyed even greater success with Gunners
![Marcus Rashford is presented as an Aston Villa player in February 2025 after his loan move from Manchester United.](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/osp3DXXKWWAMByKt7GzNnk-840-80.jpg)
‘I don’t think we’ll see Marcus Rashford at Manchester United again – when you’re not seeing eye to eye with a manager, it can hinder your training, but a loan can work, it did for me’ Ex-Premier League star on parallels with forward’s Aston Villa switch