Mental toughness is the key

Ialways think it’s ironic that the beautiful game, played primarily with the feet and named FOOTball, is a game that requires such massive input from its extreme opposite body part, the head. You could say there are three aspects to this, too: the physical, the know-how and the mindset.

Undoubtedly, from a physical point of view, any great striker needs to be able to use his head to expertly angle a great airborne cross into the back of the net.

The old saying “thinking on one’s feet” is never more apt than when in reference to football and the mental skill that makes great players instantaneously make the right decisions .

The one I want to focus on, however, is the mental toughness that is recognised in young players with great potential to become champions, and how coaches at the top levels of the game recognise, encourage and develop it.

Based on research, mental toughness at an early age is so important that one can forget the feet and focus on football greatness being in the head.

In an article on confidence, football psychologist Patrick Cohn says: “Both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have the confidence and mental toughness to stay composed on the field because they avoid comparisons and focus on their own strengths. Coaches and players can learn from this mindset.”