Different people will have varying opinions on what it takes to make a team great. Some will say it is down to the quality of the players, others will say that it is the coaches and managers that make all the difference. Fans might side with their favourite players being the deal breakers whereas others will say that the support from fans is what makes all the difference. One of the best things about football is the different thoughts that people have and the different things that come together to make a great team.
The Current England Team
With England in the throes of the World Cup, many have been discussing what it takes to make a great England football team – and what has made teams great in the past. Betway recently talked to former England International Emile Heskey about all things World Cup and the England football team. One thing he talked about was the stand-out players that he had seen so far during the World Cup matches. He talked about both Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka and how they stood out throughout the game. They’re both young players which is a fact that Heskey touched upon during his chat with Betway, but also about how they go out there and express themselves how they do. It’s all you want at a tournament, really, the opportunity to show your best. But it’s easier said than done.”
Strong Players
There is no denying that England has had some stand-out players in the past; many of whom have unsurprisingly carved out successful sporting careers for themselves. There are different elements that make up a strong player, but simply being able to get out there and play to the best of their ability definitely helps. For young players and those new to big tournaments like the World Cup, the experience can be overwhelming enough to put them off of their A-game. Heskey said of the players that had stood out for him “They play with no fear, with a smile on their face and genuinely seem to love what they do. They have that will to win and that passion to win, but embrace it rather than fear it.” It is a skill that comes with experience but definitely helps when it comes to creating a great team.
The Management
Whilst players are undoubtedly super important for any team to be considered great, it is the people in the background that can help players play to the best of their ability. Heskey talked about how managers need to be able to take the burden away from players, to leave them the ability to just get on with playing the match. For example, Michael Owen played amazingly well during the 1998 World Cup, and this is because he had the support of both his team manager and his teammates. It was this support that gave him the confidence to really go for it – and many say it is that which makes a great player and therefore a great team.