There has been much comment recently about sports’ reporting culture following the exposure of gender discriminatory emails.
A national newspaper for example, recently devoted an entire column to this topic. Contents of recent sports pages display no articles on ladies sports; or female comment on sports.
In the sports pages of Postcode Newspapers we try to cover all aspects of sport within the community and welcome male and female contributions and comments.
England’s squad for the forthcoming World Cup in Brazil includes a number of talented young players from Premier League Clubs. Many see this as a brave move by England’s Manager Roy Hodgson. The frequently asked question is of course, can England win the competition. General informed opinion seems to indicate a quarter-final finish. This column supports that view, but like all England supporters, hopes that we surpass expectations by going deeper into the competition. Why however, is this unlikely? Sadly the overall technical skills of England’s best players generally are still some way behind those in teams such as Brazil, Spain, Germany and some African Nations.
Technical prowess is an essential prerequisite that provides the platform from which top players go on to express themselves and perform at superior levels both as individuals and as team members.
Thus the lack of technique means that current England players are unlikely to be able to perform on equal terms with technically superior players from other countries.
No matter how many different leagues might be introduced by the Football League, in England, until full attention is paid to the technical coaching and development of our most talented young players, it will not be possible to raise the level of performance of our best players to the point where they can compete on equal terms at the highest levels of World football.
In tennis Andy Murray, the British No.1, has said that he is not in any rush to announce his new coach to replace Ivan Lendl. He is likely to bring someone in during the forthcoming grass season at the earliest. There are not too many coaches with the credentials to work with Murray, but don’t be surprised if those he considers include Martina Navratilova or Amelie Mauresmo. Martina is one of Tennis’ most successful players of all time and as such could work with Andy. Amelie is one of the few other master coaches currently available who could work with Andy at the level he requires.