Quote Originally Posted by londonboy View Post
This is a tricky area I think. In my opinion, no kid should be asked (or nominated) to play in one position for the whole season. The kids are 8/9/10 years old and should be able to play every position to better understand the game. Even the most enthusiastic goalkeeper will ask to play outfield at some point, and why shouldn’t they? Of course, all parents would love their kid to play in their preferred position, but SAP is about development and kids won’t develop if they aren’t exposed to different facets of football.

Once kids get to 13/14 they should probably look at specialising in one or two positions, but even then things can change radically in teenage years. David De Gea was a striker until 14 years old; Rio Ferdinand was a striker until he was 16; Wan Bissaka a winger until 18 etc.

I get some kids trial as a goalkeeper and know what they are getting into. I’m just not sure clubs should be looking for specific goalkeepers at such a young age.
the whole way along we've had keepers who want to play the position and pretty sure all do some sort of outside goalie training.
none of the outfield players want to be keeper and the keeper doesnt want to play outfield.
the kids on the field get moved around a fair bit, and ive def noticed a few teams that do it to. totally agree with mixing it up.

during club training the keepers all have to do the same outifeld drills as everyone. good footwork and basic control is essential for them anyway.