Ter Stegen looks all set for Barca ...

With pre-season well under way for teams across the globe, Marc Andre ter Stegen has had a great opportunity to show off his talents and stake his claim for first team football. As yet, I don't have a clear idea who the Spanish side's decided choice is, but ter Stegen is not one to sit on the bench. Having played non-stop for Borrussia Mochengladbach, and starting every single league game for them after fighting his way onto the team sheet, I can't see why he would have gone to all this effort just to warm the bench. A clear competitor (in the mould of notable German goalies throughout history), I still have no idea why Bravo joined, given his vastly differing style of goalkeeping.

ter Stegen is clearly happy to play as a sweeper, as shown by his performances in the Bundesliga and internationally, and this is the exact style of goalkeeper Barcelona want. As a like for like replacement for departing Valdes, he can easily play the ball with either foot, but even more so, is happy to pass like a midfielder from his box. Buzzing with confidence and a high energy/confident goalkeeper, has a higher starting position than Valdes, he should also be able to come out strongly on one man rushes and to intercept far outside his area.

Adding extra dimensions with his accuracy in passing and his ability to pass the ball to either wing with ease because of his comfortable ability to play the ball with left or right, he could go on to have an even greater career than the goalkeeper he has been brought in to replace. A penalty shot killer (see him versus Messi as an example) and strong on 1-on-1's as well as a keen battler, he has a lot to give, and could be challenging the world's top five in the not so distant future.

As you can see in this clip, in a warm-up friendly, you can see how quickly he has adapted to the style and role Barca want him to play in. Pinging the ball out to the wings for attacks to start, he is also clearly happy to maintain possession by playing the goal kick short and then rotating ball possession (like you would see in Dutch 'total football' or at Ajax and under Van Jaal). His defenders are clearly confident in his kicking skills and happy to pass back to him knowing he will get the ball out safely, as you can see numerous times with the defender turning around straightaway to give the ball back to him.

It's also easy to spot how ambidextrous he is, able to pass the ball out with distance, height and accuracy. This helps mark him out and increase his worth as this style of goalkeeper.

I don't think it will be long until he starts challenging Neuer for the sweeper and German crowns, and he clearly has bags of potential going forward this season and into the future. The future of the modern goalkeeper looks bright and I'll eagerly be waiting to see how it all turns out!

Super Tim!

Another noteworthy revelation from Rio was the record breaking number of saves by Tim Howard in the game against Belgium; one of the best to watch in the whole world cup. Able to do everything but score to get his team the win, Tim made a big impression for his home nation, enough to perhaps even grow the audience of soccer in the States!

His performance pretty much epitomised what being a good goalkeeper is: being there for your team mates, putting everything on the line for them, not worrying about conceding but focusing more on the task at hand, and playing with a gutsy and emotional approach.

Tim's story is also given greater depth by his personal struggle with Tourettes and his grandmother's inspiration for him playing in goal in the first place; the self belief and sticking to his dreams that turned him into the goalkeeper and person he is today. For that to happen, he has taught himself to deal with the condition and the self discipline and concentration levels that are needed to play at the highest tiers of football in the specialist position of goalkeeper.

And with this in mind, I would go as far as a so-called 'disability' has actually enabled him to play at the level his capable of, as it pushes him to concentrate and focus on the game more than say perhaps someone with 'normal' neurology. Not that I have a wealth of understanding of the specifics, but from a performance analysing perspective seems to definitely be the case.

What we learnt from Rio: Neuer is boss

Or something like that for a title!

Whilst we saw Brazil bow out in a way that the people of that fine footballing country wouldn't have been happy about, we did get to see a new breed of goalkeeper dominating the World Cup. Germany pretty much steamrolled there way to the finals and the cup, but in part had a lot to thank there goalkeeper for. A mix of fine committed defending combined with a goalkeeper more than happy to meet the ball and make mind-blowing interceptions outside of his box, worked together to create one of the best defensive units in the world.

As football observers, we have seen and grown used to, a style of German football that is more tactical, disciplined and robust than anything else. Big, physical and technical to the bone, rather than creative and skillful; the kind of style of football that Brazil historically hates to go up against, which showed in their undoing as the Germans went on to demolish them on home turf. Something unbelievable and yet real. The style of German football (much like their hockey too) wins games and is great for the tactician, but for 'total football' fans, it's hard to watch without that spark of inspiration a player like Neymar can produce.

 But here is a goalkeeper doing something not exactly associated with this style. Within this mould, the goalkeeper would be expected to sit deep in the area and let the play come to them, rather than forcing it and coming undone by rushing the attack and over thinking and acting irrationally. Strangely enough, this is what Robert Enke (Neuer's predecessor) believed in; with his knee down block save to protect against the much hated shot between the legs on the breakaway. And yet, here is a goalkeeper being ridiculously radical and taking the position of goalkeeper so far it looks like he's playing in the original format when the game started; an outfield player with gloves on!

Pushed out of his comfort zone by Guardola at Bayern Munich, a few tweaks and refinements here and there have turned this typically statured German machine into a sweeper keeper that is pushing the limits on what is expected of goalkeepers and in turn, what they are truly capable of.

A lot of this has to do with Neuer's confidence, which looks sky high. Self assured and more than happy to play this way, he dominates mentally as well as in his play. I for one (seem to have a habit of being wrong!) never thought Neuer would grow to be this confident or solid as a sweeper-come-goalkeeper. In his first World Cup outing he looked pretty shaky, especially at corners, but over time, he has started to show he amazing he really is.

He was especially sweeper like in the game against Algeria. And more so, was showing a streak of attacking play not even seen in any other goalkeeper on the planet right now (yes, it's true!). Playing high up in his box, he got his defenders to channel the attacker, before timing his run perfectly to reach the ball outside the area! And this involved a bit of sliding in (like Vorm), headering away (Casillas/Lloris) and some neat trickery. But his regular use of this radical style of goalkeeping; attacking the pass rather than trying to go for the save (like those in the Ochoa camp of support and thinking), totally pushing boundaries on what to expect of goalkeepers.

What does this mean for the future of goalkeeping?
Just to try and round this all up without writing pages and reems of analysis, it seems worth summing up what Neuer brings to the table and what can be learned:

• Self confidence is crucial for the goalkeeper to perform at their best
• Attacks can actively be shut down by the goalkeeper outside (!) the area; this is something only Neuer really does and stands out incredibly
• A high positioning in the box is needed in order to do this

Can this shape the next generation of goalkeepers? Yes, definitely, however I don't see all goalkeepers following this model. Not all teams play in a shape like this or need their goalkeeper to, so would be unnecessary, plus the goalkeeper needs to be comfortable with their feet and able to read the game to the highest levels. And Neuer is a unique individual. Just as Lloris is one of (if not THE) fastest goalkeeper I have ever witnessed coming off his line to intercept, so is Neuer in his positional play.

As long as Neuer keeps playing like he does, so goalkeepers can rejoice in dismantling those bad jokes about us not being able to play anywhere else on the pitch, and also to redefine how we play!!

Super Krul needed against Argentina

After all the talk about much Van Gaal is after taking an uncertain Dutch squad to the World Cup semi-finals and finishing third, one wonders why he didn't bother throwing the dice so to speak against Argentina. After subbing on Tim Krul to star in the penalty shootout that took them to the semi-finals, he bottled it and made the switch to bring on Huntelaar, who then got carded and failed to create any solid goal scoring opportunities. Tongue in cheek (still wonder if had anything to do with needing to leave Rio to start Man United's pre-season early) aside, after making the switch against .

It wasn't just the extra reach that evaded Jasper, but also the positivity. Once he got his head down, he struggled to perform anything close to the three point winning save against Spain in the first game or some of his other notable saves. Krul was 'pumped' against Costa Rica, his confidence over flowing as he made save after save to take his team through. And Holland had nothing to lose. Clearly Jasper wasn't as good at penalties (not all of the goalkeepers at the World Cup have proven themselves as penalty specialists), and Tim offered them a better option.

Jasper seemed to be the man for the 90 minutes; playing as a solid sweeper (the tuck back on show many times to annoy the opposing forward trying to hassle him - looking at you Aguero!) as well as shot stopper (coming out and looking big, like against Spain). But Krul shone in the penalty shootout. As Argentina snuck through with a goalkeeper that has played all of four (yes, four domestic games this season in Ligue 1!), there's always going to be that 'what-if' question mark as to whether Van Gaal could have made the same tactical switch yet again...

Ochoa: worth the hype?

With Rio almost over, and my thoughts late as always (I blame my current health; more on that another time...), there have been some sparkling goalkeeping performances that have drawn much attention from fans and media all around the world. And one goalkeeper that stood out in particular was Ochoa. With his reaching stops to deny Neymar and keep Mexico in the game, or palming away unsighted shots at free kicks, it's not a surprise that praise bordered on cult worship as Internet mems popped up all over the place!

But in a world where everything is uber hyped and then smashed to smithereens in the celebrity, it's important to reflect over whether or not there is too much hype for Ocha. And the bottom line is simple: Ochoa plays in a way that makes his look miraculous, impossible and jaw dropping. The fact he has the rare reaction speeds (like a cat!) and his level of athleticism are incredibly important to this; almost a football like version of Felix Potvin.

By positioning properly - which can be easily missed by goalies and players alike - is essential to achieving this. This is his style: each goalkeeper is unique and whilst there may be 'systems' or 'models' that work, ultimately he is working with his natural abilities to play as a goalkeeper - that with a bit of refining, could be truly world class. By staying so deep he gives himself those extra seconds to react (given the speed of the ball, this is longer than a 113mph puck etc.) and at the same time means he has further to stretch, forcing him to be so athletic. When combined together, these two traits executed properly equate to produce an athletic goalkeeper that purposefully sets up for the expected angle of shot to then save. A lot like Martin Brodeur's approach: offering visual shooting space that you want the player to go for, before taking it away!

Of course for the armchair fan (that would think Ochoa is a god as a result) it can be easy not to know this. And . If Ochoa wants to make the leap to playing in the Premier League, then he will have to adjust to the physicality and control of his area needed to play in this sort of arena. Just as De Gea struggles still with English football in spite of those ridiculous almost impossible saves reaching out at the last moment for the fingertip full extension save, so Ochoa needs to be more than a one trick pony to make it to that stage. That's not too say that he couldn't or even can't, but if a Premier League team decides to snatch him up after his Rio theatrics (being a free agent after his deal with Ajaccio ended), he may have trouble straightaway if he doesn't work to adapt to the style of game and   to finetune what he has got already working for him.

Areas Ochoa is already strong in:

• One on one's - this is a difficult area that a lot of goalkeepers struggle with, but is so important at a level where breakaways are regular. Like Valdes' success in a system that sees these odd man rushes, Ochoa is the opposite, struggling behind a poor defensive line. Either way, he is very good at closing down the angle and looking big for the block, also working on Enke's idea behind the knee block to close the '5 hole' gap between the legs which shooters look to exploit.
• Free kicks - Ochoa is aware tactically of the need to set his wall up properly, with the angle being set to aid in his save making; staying deep behind the wall to make the stop expecting it to loop over. However, he might need little adjustments for playing in England or other stronger European Leagues.
• Double saves - Ocha is incredibly quick coming out just as much as he is in recovering for the next stop, with an 'in the zone' mentality to keep everything out. Multiple save series were regular in his World Cup performances for the highlight reel.

Areas that will need improvement:

• Control of his area - not always vocal, Ochoa plays more conservatively than the modern goalkeeper sitting deep in his box in regular play just as in his goalkeeping style. Ochoa could work on being confident and commanding, as seen in Chile's Bravo (who is now at Barca) and Neuer
• Distribution - Ochoa cannot currently play as a sweeper or as an outlet option; his kicks need to be more pinpoint and  to pick out players free on the counter attack to achieve the high tier expectations of the world's elite goalkeepers
• Catching - 'pop outs' are something that are definitely exploited by attackers in the Premier League, and Ochoa would need to work on his catching and decision making. If he has time to make the catch then he shouldn't punch and would need to work on holding the ball rather than letting it rebound out with hard hands, in case of secondary scoring opportunities.

Foster solid against Costa Rica

Even though England were dumped out of the World Cup easily in the first rounds, it was a good experience for West Brom's goalkeeper Ben Foster. Ben, who like starter Joe Hart, had a key season on loan at Birmingham that helped cement his development into a solid goalkeeper, showed a mix of the simple and the elite in his outing against Costa Rica. Whilst it seemed an odd choice to start him in goal after Hart's struggles to reach his peak and Foster being closer to retirement age come the next World Cup tournament, he repaid the coach's trust in him with an outstanding performance.

Mixing a series of athletic diving saves to reach the ball, with some solid positioning that made his catches look easier than they are, he showed the hybrid approach of fulfilling multiple roles and jobs, which is needed of a goalkeeper at the highest tier of football. Commanding as well as calm and unfazed at the right times, he also showed a cool head and mental balance that is required to play at this level. Gone are the days when England fans would expect to hide under the sofa as the goalkeeper got on the wrong end of a humiliating blunder, and there were no mistakes or slip-ups Foster made that would have cost his team.

West Brom, who have a lot to thank Foster for, in keeping them in it for every game of the season, are in a great position going foward, starting out strong from the back. Whilst the numbers and stats might not have been in his favour in the league table, Ben did have a very strong outing last season and was one of the top performing goalkeepers in the Premier league as he gave them a chance to compete all season long.

So to summarise, here are some thoughts:

• Foster has a very strong technical foundation that allows him to make the difficult saves look easy, as well as being able to make the simple saves without a mental barrier
• Has great self confidence and calmness which allows him to achieve clean sheets
• He is a leader, with a strong command of his area and his defenders
• A team player, he will fight for the win and compete intensively
• Can do the various aspects of being an elite goalkeeper

Assessing Casillas' troubles

Everyone has seen Iker Casillas' fall to pieces at the World Cup right now, and a lot can be said about what happened. Personally, I think there were multiple factors, and getting demoted to the bench in favour of Diego Lopez didn't help matters. It was going to happen, and it did. So to summarise about my thoughts, I've summed up my thoughts below, to save me writing (and you reading!) paragraph upon paragraph:

• He did make some great saves, but once his team had given up the effort, things were going to go bad from then on in
• You could see that his confidence was hit and spiraled out of control: for a goalkeeper to be at their best, they have to be really certain in their ability and Casillas was second-guessing, self doubting, and not playing as commanding as we have seen him in previous world beating form (electing to punch instead of catch etc.)
• Spain were playing a higher line and recycling the ball more through the back four, forcing Casillas to play as a passing sweeper - something he doesn't do, and what Valdes is best at actually - which got him caught out in the thrashing in the first game to add to his woes
• Casillas only got to play in cup games this season, which is not enough to expect to be at peak performance for a World Cup; friendlies maybe, but not when you have the expectant winners to continue their reign! He really should have cut ties with Madrid and looked for regular playing time elsewhere. Cesar looks fine, but the MLS would tie into a strong enough build up to peaking for Rio versus a significant layoff
• Valdes' injury at Barca really made a difference; coming off a strong season, he really could have come in straight away and played as the sweeper role as well as expected to have made great stops as he had been in La Liga had he been fit!
• The coach needed to be more brutal and either ask Casillas to look elsewhere for match time if he wanted to play at Rio, or to make a choice to bring in another goalkeeper. Cillesen is playing great for Holland and many would say that Krul and Vorm are better keepers, but he was forced into playing due to their injuries, and has been consistent for Van Gaal so far and could see them all the way through to the finals
• The pressure on such a celebrity figure like Iker has a great impact on the sports psychology of goalkeeping. The more stress packed up on him can make things even more tricky with decision making as he totally lost self confidence and therefore his team lost confidence in him
• Having broken into the first team at Real Madrid at incredibly young age for a goalkeeper, the last nagging question is: has Casillas peaked to soon? Are his best days over? For goalkeepers, 30s are their prime time, but Casillas had most of his best seasons before that period. And if we look to other sports, like ice hockey, Jonathan Quick didn't become the starter at LA until he was 26 and has won 2 Stanley Cups in 3 seasons, whilst Fleury is also regressing. Akinfeev is struggling; is peaking-too-soon showing similarities here??

Pro Used: Fabianski's fingersaves

Another recent goalie acquisition, was a pair made for Fabianski. I can only assume these were a training pair, as he doesn't seem to use fingersaves for matches. Now with Swansea, these were made specially for him during his time at Arsenal. Interestingly, they had fingersaves at the thumb as well as the other fingers. This is something you don't often see this level of player using (normally just the four fingered reinforcements) and the thumb curve was very rigid and close to the thumb within the glove.

The fingersaves were pre-curved and fixed in (not removable), and bent in a way that it made it difficult to properly bend at the fingers to make a strong catch to hold the ball. However, this would be great in training and for fingertip stops to make sure the fingers weren't bent back during the save.

The glove cut was also rollfinger (a lot more 'roomy' than the Kenny cut). They were essentially an adaptation of the Bionic Uhlsport model.

Pro Used: Kenny's Sells

As a bit of a kit fanatic, I love getting the chance to try out professional standard goalkeeping gear whenever I have the chance. I don't think much compares as a goalie obsessive to wearing kit that has been specially made for an elite level GK. In America, for ice hockey especially, a lot of goalies will get 'pro returns' at a great price, allowing them to play with great protection and extra features not normally featured in stock pads (like an SMU glove basically). And I think this is something that would be great to feature on the blog to add a bit of spice and difference.

Personally, I think it would be awesome to have this kind of thing seen more regularly in the football GK Union, with lower level GK's learning more about gloves and their features by getting the chance to play with a pair worn by their fan fave goalie.

First up is a pair of Sells rollfinger Aqua gloves made for Paddy Kenny. I got them from that well known auction site (aka Ebay!) where you can often find some great deals. First impressions were how much they were an incredibly tight fit. I have slight (slim/thin) fingers, apparently like those of an artist/sculptor/painter and with the rollfinger design made to conform to the finger as close as possible, it was really noticeable how tight the fit was.

I think this would have a big impact in game, as it was harder to bring the fingers in, versus the cut-in designs you see that make it easier to bend the fingers without limiting glove W shape. This was pretty much the main design change, other than the added extra venting, with the glove pretty much stock otherwise.

Gloves before the wash!

The bacteria noticeable after the wash!!

Rinat on show with Valladares

Rinat are a glove company that are well known within the Hispanic community, with a lot of goalkeepers in South America using them, and also famous names in the Spanish La Liga. I had assumed that Keylor Navas (well advertised as one of their main sponsored players) would be sporting a pair for Costa Rica, but it seems he's switched over to Sells gloves, like Valdes has. That leaves Honduras goalkeeper and captain Valladares wearing them. Which means they have 'made the big time', with the company seeing their gloves wore in a major tournament like the World Cup. Theoretically they should therefore be up to the standard of play otherwise I can't see goalkeepers putting their trust in them for protection against such stingy shots by world class strikers. And hopefully they'll get some more customers with the brand getting noticed internationally on this scale!

Akinfeev's implosion

Just as Ochoa has drawn a lot of praise in the media, so has Akinfeev's nervous collapse been highlighted. For me, I really think this is a psychological thing, but can't quite pinpoint it exactly. Igor has long been considered one of Russia's great goalkeepers and with strong performances in the UEFA and previous World Cup tournaments, having taken over as 1st choice with his club at the age of 16, with scouts and pundits taking a liking to him, but for some reason things have gone more than a little wrong. The weather (with the torrential showers taking place in quite a few matches at the moment) may have had something to add to making it worse, but he couldn't seem to catch a thing.

He is also normally great at catching and has strong hands. But he fumbled about four shots, with one ending up in the back of the net. I really think there is something going under the surface, mentally, for whatever reason that needs addressing. If he was as confident as he usually is, this wouldn't be happening, as he would be making the right choices; sticking to them and being forceful in commanding his area.

Compared to his usual performances, this is terrible. In the sense that he is normally so consistent and strong mentally, and is not known for his mistake making. The goal he did allow, he needed to have been more convicted with his decision making, and punched it away, on a good angle, or left his feet and gone for the catch. By electing to palm away and not pushing the ball away on a good angle, he ended up popping it up and over him for the OG.

It could also have something to do with a possible change in coaching or similar, which shouldn't be ruled out. If he is in two minds over whether to punch/parry or catch, this can be creeping into his decision making. As the ball comes in and he keeps changing his mind, things go wrong, and then his confidence is destroyed from then on in.

Whatever it is, he needs to go away and strengthen his mind and confidence, if he wants his team to do well, or start the next game. Just like Gomes just needed a good sports psychologist whilst he had his own struggles at Tottenham, so does Afinkeev need encouragement. Support from his coach, his team mates and Russian media should help, and so long as he stays mentally strong going forward, he should be back at his best in no time.

The pressure on the modern player is almost unthinkable compared to previous years and generations. All goalkeepers know how much pressure is put on them for their team to succeed, and critics and fans should keep this in mind when considering Igor's meltdown.

Cesar not affected by lay-off

Watching the Brazil - Mexico game, it was good to see that Cesar was in good form against table matching opponents and good rivals Mexico. Strong and mentally in tune with the game, he made some key stops, pushing one shot over the bar, with great awareness. Able to pull out the stops in the closing of the game to keep it 0-0, he made a great Cesar-like (what fans are used to from him!) save, pushing away the drive to the centre of goal, with a strong push to clear the rebound away. It was a little close to comfort, but given the angle of the shot, and incoming defender, wasn't much he could do about it. The push away also helped as he would have had enough time to set and recover for the next shot, if that had happened.

There were big question marks over how well he would do given the significant lay-off he faced after being benched by Redknapp at QPR and only a few games in with Toronto in the MLS, but he is showing it's not a case for concern. In his last world cup outing, he struggled about with confidence and decision making, but going by his performances so far, he has clearly put that behind him and should be able to carry his team should they continue to struggle.

Ochoa impressing on the big stage

One of the standout goalkeepers in Rio so far has been Ochoa. A goalkeeper that likes to sit deep in his area, hanging around the goal line, and rely on his reflexes and athleticism, he has incorporated this in his game approach at the tournament. Applying , he has found a way to play to his strengths, coming together for some cracking saves against headed crosses and long drives.

With his status listed as a free agent, having finished his season in Ligue 1, he is sure to be looking to alert scouts to sort out a new deal once the tournament is over.

Against Cameroon he made a top drawer save in the dying moments of the game. Showing a high concentration level of calmness but also steady awareness, that is key to success at this standard, he has shown he is more than ready to 'switch on' at the last second to make the stop. Teams don't exactly want their goalkeeper to drop off to sleep with little work to do, and Ochoa is proving his mental awareness. Making a diving stop in extension to claw away the ball in the last moments of the game helped ensure Cameroon couldn't get on the score board for Mexico to wrap it up, and should not be underestimated.

And against Brazil, he was also in great form to pull off 3 point (game winning) saves to ensure that Mexico came away with a draw against the tournament favourites. Rushing out to block a 1 on 1 after his defence failed to respond, he also made a great stop to turn Neymar's long range effort past the past (using his cat like and deep reflex style as mentioned) and also to get something behind a headed cross, palming away; most importantly with great positional sense in order to get behind the redirect.

As the games go on, Ochoa is sure to crank it up and show his mettle for goalkeeping fans across the world!!

Matt Ryan awarded best goalkeeper of Belgian season

Australia's prize goalkeeping prospect Matt Ryan has grown in acclaim this season, recently being awarded the award for best goalkeeper in his first season in Belgium. The youngster has supposedly been linked with Real Madrid (according to his national team coach) and in spite of that sounding far fetched, he has great potential, clearly showing key attributes for elite aspects of goalkeeping, as well as trialling with the likes of Tottenham and others. He has a great chance to gain some great playing experience in Rio in the coming weeks, with Australia is a tough game and where he'll be called upon to play well to stop an instant exit, as well as gain extra exposure to international scouts. The Belgian league is growing, and he might see a move to France or beyond in the next milestone step in his career development.

Season review: De Vries replaces Darlow at season end

With Karl Darlow struggling at the end of the season after some great performances putting him on the radar of scouts and England coaching staff, the move to have Dorus de Vries back in between the posts, seemed sensible rather than a point of negativity towards Darlow. Too many times have young talents been burnt out and managing their development can be pretty tricky. Just as John Gibson was pulled in favour of Jonas Hiller in the final game of their playoff series against LA, it allowed Darlow to get some headspace to recover from this major losses. A goalie tandem between mature veteran and upcoming youngster is seeming often missing in British football, and helped Darlow from imploding; confidence issues are major for a goalkeeper as success in goalkeeping comes from the core of self confidence. He can use the break to rest, re-tune and be back at his best in September.

Fabianski to Swansea: thoughts

With the Fabianski to Swansea deal confirmed, there will be more uncertainty over Vorm's future at the Welsh club. The Dutch international who will be with Holland in Rio has been linked with a move to Liverpool to provide competition for Mignolet and this signing only adds to that. Until other moves happen and things become known after the World Cup, this is either a security move to add depth with second choice Tremmel not impressing in Vorm's injury absence, or a sign of Vorm's departure.

To speed along the process of analysis here's some quick points reflecting on the move:

• Vorm plays as a sweeper - both styles; distributor, being one of the greatest passers of the ball in league with great accuracy (a la Reina) - and goal chance interceptor, Lloris like in rushing out of his box to stop the attacker getting through in on goal - I don't think Fabianski can play in this style, meaning Swansea will have to adapt their defensive line and the way it plays
• Vorm makes amazing saves with his athleticism and reach rather than height! Fabianski doesn't have the matching desire to win as Vorm did when he made a name for himself
• Fabianski struggles with confidence (as shown when coming in as relief in Champions League etc.) but a lower pressure environment compared to Arsenal could help recapture his form, as with Mannone at Sunderland

Atletico Madrid sign replacement for Courtois

Atletico Madrid have moved in to sign Miguel Angel Moya from Getafe on a three year deal. This furthers the speculation over Courtois taking over at Chelsea and the possibility of Cech moving back to PSG for a fair wage. Atletico have seen quite the change in goalkeepers in recent years; not forgetting De Gea impressing enough to alert Ferguson as Van Der Saar's replacement, whilst winning the U21's tournament for Spain before the move, before Courtois joined. Having won La Liga with Courtois at the helm, it would appear that Atletico clearly have a lot of trust in their new starter, unless they expect him to bench for the Belgian star looking forward to display his talents at Rio just around the corner!

Loach to Rotherham

One of the first signings for the newly promoted Championship side Rotherham is their new goalkeeper, former U21's goalie Scott Loach. With Loach clearly capable of playing for one of the division's top sides, the signing would indicate that Rotherham are in no mind about getting demoted in the upcoming season. Loach has impressed a fair amount of Premier league scouts and was touted as being one for the future, and at 26 still has years to hit his stride in goalkeeping terms. He is a definite upgrade for Rotherham and it will be interesting to see how he adjusts over the course of the season, and whether he can be a real difference maker for helping them with their long term ambitions of higher status.

http://www.themillers.co.uk/news/article/millers-sign-scott-loach-1602952.aspx#RM3iYuUO8W0oSjUO.99

Myhill quitting Wales

In other news, Boaz Myhill has retired from international selection at a key time when Wales are pushing up the ladder of football after much effort, hard work and planning. Looking to spend more time with family, much like Foster's temporary absence from England, Wales will have to look for potential replacements. This leaves Wayne Hennessey as the clear cut first choice, but if he doesn't take over at Palace, Wales' goalkeeping woes may continue.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/27515345

Jussi staying with the Hammers

With Adrian forcing Jussi onto the bench for 'big Sam', it's interesting to see him renew his contract for another season. It would seem that West Ham want a goalkeeper with experience for those 'just in case' situations given Adrian's slow transition into being a Premier league starter. Given how little game experience Adrian has, and how he was plucked from Spanish league obscurity, it's possible to wonder why they didn't bring in a budget younger goalkeeper for a cheap price with great upside and potential. But it's important not to forget the importance of a mentoring figure to assist in developing young goalkeepers and Adrian could learn a great deal about the expectations of playing at this level, as well as supporting each other through the season for the 'mental game' aspect of goalkeeping.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/27697033

Kasper re-signs

As the signings and chopping and changing in squads begin, Leicester have moved quickly to lock up the services of their free agent first choice Kasper Schmeichel. Having been on the radar of other Premier league teams last season, like Hull, to compete for a place in strengthening a team in the top division. But after sticking with the team that took him on, he has pushed the team forward to a history defining season, winning promotion for the side. To make sure they were sure of their goalkeeper way ahead of pre-season, for changing room and defensive relations, it was important for Leicester to keep his services. It will be the first time Kasper will be playing in the Premier league since his time under Erikson at Man City.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/27704670

Hennessey gets the start against Fulham

The weekend saw some interesting games as the Premier League ran down to the wire, with Manchester City pipping Liverpool at the post, after all their hard work and impressive start to the season ended in tears. So much for Joe Hart's critics complaining he's not up to scratch, compared to the seasons of many other goalkeepers in the elite ranks. Aside from all that though, it was a chance to finally see Wayne Hennessey in action for Crystal Palace.

Brought in during the January transfer window when Pulis joined, it looks like the tall Welshman could be back in the Premier league on a more permanent basis in September. Pulis had the perfect chance to have a look at him and if he was 'up to scratch' this weekend: with Palace's place already assured and a should-win game against Fulham, he could give Speroni a rest for the day.

However, I really can't see Speroni being dropped based on form whatsoever. It seems more a case like that of a wife getting ditched by their husband in a mid-life crisis for a younger version (buxom blonde). Speroni's shot stopping is ridiculous at times, making De Gea look average. And these match winning saves are nothing to sniff at. From the stops against Tottenham in his first game back in the Premier league, to stopping some otherwise clear cut goals against Liverpool, Speroni really has been the man to beat this season. This combined by his depth of experience and marshalling of his difference are real difference makers and game changers.

How well he has clicked with the defensive system used by Pulis only speaks volumes of support. I personally feel it would be harsh to drop him, but with contract endings coming up and Pulis' approach to his team in general, it looks like these rumours could be truths by September. I for one think Hennessey is rusty at best, especially seeing as playing against a relegated team with a similar squad and only achieving a draw in an otherwise easy three points isn't a good sign for Wayne. And though injury has scuppered him of late, to be fair, I can't see any reason for dropping Speroni. Only time will tell, so I'll be watching the summer transfers with interest.

Cech's injury: the impact

With Cech injuring his shoulder against Athletico Madrid with a shoulder dislocation, Mark Schwarzer's decision to sign on with the London side seemed like a smart move by all involved. The Australian first choice was a strong member of the Fulham team, with great consistency proving his reliability, showing in his former side's relegation without him. An elite goalkeeper in his own right, he potentially isn't up to that standard of Cech. Cech, considered one of the top five goalkeepers in the world by many, can play to a level that Schwarzer can't reach to be honest, but can still provide a strong presence in the area.

Unable to win against Norwich, Chelsea have failed to get the points this Sunday, which can really affect their league hopes. Their dream of winning the league seems to be going up in smoke, whilst they have seen themselves get dumped out of the Champion's League. Not necessarily Schwarzer's fault, but Cech could definitely have stood a better chance against some of their scoring chances. Thankfully for Chelsea (and their fans!), they haven't had to put Hilario in but Schwarzer, whilst still great, is getting on a bit and not as agile as he once was for those match winning finger tip extension saves! 

Rimando back!

So after picking up an injury in an exhibition game for America, which could have impacted greatly on his domestic season with his team in the MLS, Nick Rimando is back in action. I'm sure . There have been quite a few goalkeepers out injured in the English Premier League this season, with Krul, Vorm, Cech and Stekelenburg out with different problems, proving how important it is to have a solid second choice in case such a thing does happen. Not forgetting Valdes and others! Without your elite goalkeeper to turn to, who can get you a fair amount of points over the season, a coach would be pulling their hair out at the thought of losing their best choice to injury at a key stage in the season. So I'm sure Nick and his coaches will be really glad to have him back in action; taking the most of his return with some impressive saves already!

Schwarzer getting playing time as World Cup looms

Mark Schwarzer's move to Chelsea has proven the need for an elite goalkeeper to be able to backstop a team in the highest tier of football in the world. Schwarzer has built a reputation around being solid, consistent and calm; goalkeepers have to be a constant sign of reliability to get picked and have long careers, and Schwarzer had been the model of consistency for Fulham for a number of years before the switch. With Sketelenburg out injured for most of the season, Fulham's woes have been added to with their goalkeeping options. Given the chance to play against Sunderland last weekend, perhaps due to Mourinho feeling they were up against a weaker side. Argentina's choice Sergio Romero has been playing for Monaco, only as of late, simply out of coaching pressure and Rio looming, and this may have also be a reason.

Either way, with Cech getting injured in the Champion's League match against Athletico Madrid, Chelsea were lucky enough for Shwarzer being given playing time as he has been thrown into the thick of things. It may only be three games, but it could really define the season for Chelsea.

With the World Cup just around the corner, and Schwarzer limiting his chances for selection by going from a team where he would arguably play every single game to being on a team only to bench warm, he really needed some game time to build up his prep and be ready for his international squad. Without matches, he could be incredibly rusty. The reason Julio Cesar took a loan deal to play in Toronto. So with Cech being injured, now is perfect time for Shwarzer to prove he's still 'got it' for club and country.

Manonne recovers with great performance vs Chelsea

With Manonne's one mistake that cost Sunderland a miracle game against Man City, he proved he can deal with the mental overload of the British papers and criticism from anyone and everyone (especially those who don't have goalkeeping insight!). This season in the Premier League there has been quite the amount of goalkeeping concerns and bumbling and bungled efforts that have shown just how tough the pressure of the modern game is on us goalkeepers (not that I play to this level!). To be a goalkeeper, you have to be almost rubber skinned when it comes to the rigours of the psychological 'game within the game'.

Manonne made some spectacular stops including a double save that helped Sunderland get the points against Chelsea at the weekend. To be able to play at this level, you need a bounce-back-ability game in game out to be able to get your team the points. Your team wants the best out of you to achieve the best you can for a season, so you need to be 'in the zone' every single game. Getting down about mistakes only makes things worse as you go into a downward spiral and stop believing in yourself. So a goalkeeper has to be able to let things slide (not performance wise!), and let go of them, like water off a duck's back as they say.

And Manonne has proven this, after being thrown into the fire with Westwood's injury. Showing flickers of brilliance at Arsenal when deputising, the agility and athleticism is there, he has shown he can handle the pressure most recently with the Black Cats. But either way, as a youngster or a amateur goalkeeper, a lot can be learnt about how he dealt with the situation; both personally and professionally. Being a goalkeeper might just be the most miserable position in sports sometimes, and it takes a tough cookie to be their best all the time.

Training from home: reaction balls

Another quick tip is another "train from home" idea. As a goalkeeper you need to have great reactions to be able to make the save. The faster the shot coming at you, the less time you have to react, so the quicker you have to react. Both in moving across to save and in decision making! In game terms, redirections (ball changing direction) and unsighted shots where you have to react at the last second to stand a chance of making the save, like at free kick situations or corners, where the ball could hit the wall and move unexpectedly to a different angle. So it's worth practising to be able to make those last ditch saves.

And another work-from-home training method is: a reaction ball. Popular in other sports like cricket, the oddly shaped ball helps you work on your reactions as it gets your hand-eye co-ordination going.

A basic drill to do at home is to find a wall (possibly in doors, but don't wake the neighbours!) and bounce the reaction ball to one side of you. It'll rebound and then you can catch it with the matching hand. Because of it's shape it shouldn't be an obvious catch, forcing you to react more when catching than otherwise. This should help to work on your reactions.

To make it more difficult, you can close your eyes when you throw the ball/in between the process, so that you have to react unsighted, further pushing yourself to react instinctively.

Spitting on your gloves??

Spitting on gloves has been the norm pretty much since latex and the rest were what (can't see what benefit it would have been for cotton ones at the time!!). It's a neat trick that can help dampen the glove to get some grip back in it, to help hold the ball when catching. A quick trick, it can provide a short term solution and help if you feel your grip is slipping away ('scuse the pun!).

You can see Schmiechel (the younger one at Leicester!) using the trick in the clip below:

But with modern developments, and the new materials used, there is the scientific argument that spit + dirt = bacteria. And not like those yoghurt ads! So bacteria can grow if untreated and can be bad for the gloves in the long run.

The new way of getting grip back during a game is to pour water on the palms from a water bottle and then drying them with a towel (as written about before) to make sure they don't get flooded with water! Which would mean you would get the complete opposite and your gloves would be too damp to catch, with the ball slipping out! But considering you might not have time to grab your water bottle and carefully dry them to a degree, the old ways still work. Worth keeping in mind both sides of the argument, but if the  calls for you to spit on your gloves if you don't have the time to stop your gloves drying up too much (if playing in warm conditions), then so it is I guess!

The local team's goalkeeper rubbing his gloves after spitting on the palms to get some grip back for catching.

Training from home: rebounders

When it comes to training and self improvement, you can make great leaps by taking time out to work on your game when you otherwise don't have the chance for people to shoot on you. This is an aspect that seems to be almost totally lost in certain areas of England and can really help boost your development curve. Training outside scheduled training (i.e. the sessions you need to go to with your squad!), will help you 'up' your game and develop much more quickly, especially if there is a leap in ability of leagues you are planning on, or you want to work towards a trial for instance.

Whilst we're often considered loners and such, there's nothing wrong with working on your game when you're bored and need some fresh air. Athletes do it, Olympians do it; Beckham would stay hours after training sessions with his team to work on his free kicks. So why not a goalie working on improving?!

In days of old, famous goalkeepers would bounce a ball off a wall to work on catching and things like that. But with modernity, urbanisation and cranky neighbours, this can be a bit tricky!

So I'll be posting up a few ideas to give you some thoughts going into off season (in the UK anyway!).

First up is the rebounder!

They can be a little pricey (£40 plus), so best to look out for bargains on Ebay, but for a long term investment really are worth it. Crazy Catch are specialist makers but there also good enough manufacturers around.

Basically a net that has been tightened enough to create a strong rebound effect, they offer the chance for you to work independently (by yourself) on your catching and overall handling. Throwing a ball against the net, you can work on your 'W' shape and catching grip, which will reinforce the muscle memory as you practise.

The following clip should give you a good idea of what to do!

Taping jerseys for tighter fit??

With taping socks to hold  the norm (for goalkeepers as well!), there also seems to be a new kit trend developing across the globe, with goalkeepers taping the upper arm of their jersey to get a tighter fit. Using tape to wrap around the top, it helps give a closer fit to the arm, so no flapping around etc. Not sure where it originates or who started it in the first place but is a random little gear trick that stands out of late.

http://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail/news-photo/swansea-citys-dutch-goalkeeper-michel-vorm-catches-the-ball-news-photo/484599709

http://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail/news-photo/eugene-galekovic-goalkeeper-of-adelaide-united-in-action-news-photo/485593835

Manonne's blunder: reflection

With Manchester City imploding against Sunderland, Poyet almost seemed have to have the answer to his prayers in a near-miraculous win against the league challengers. But it will more likely be remembered because of the goalkeeping error by Manonne. In the doghouse now for a bit one expects, it just highlights how much of a job goalkeeping is when it comes to mental strength and the villainous character of costing your team, when the mistakes of your team mates are somehow easier to forgive?!

Couldn't manage to embed the clip, so you'll just have to follow the link!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EqwTa9Olqc

Playing against a team like City where you are expecting to face ridiculously pinpoint shots, it's easy for nerves and self doubt to get the best of a goalkeeper and preparing for the need to pull off a spectacular save, only for something simple and easy to save causing all sorts of hell for you. Sunderland fans will be on Manonne's back after this because it could have gifted them three points and a win to go down in the history books. Alas, it wasn't to be and the clip will probably end up on some DVD of goalkeeping horror shows more than anything else.

The worst bit as a goalkeeper is watching it trickle over the line. It wasn't like that goal against Real Madrid where Gomes dove back and the ball had already crossed the line, after it squirmed through his hands. He made about two dives to try and reach it; failing and flailing on the first one and then having to watch the agonising scene of the ball going over the line even though it was millimeters away from him.

These things happen, sh*t happens, that's life (unfortunately but true!). In a culture where being perfect is epitomised by never making mistakes (mainly because they've never had to make them), the balance goes the wrong way, whereas in reality a goalkeeper needs adversity to go from being standard to elite. Why? Because of the mental strength needed to go the distance (like in a tournament/playoff run) and to learn that life isn't always full of daisies!

Manonne really needs just to forget about the whole and carry like it never happened. Life goes on; as a goalkeeper you can't change the past, only the future! And by hard work and dedication. He should just sleep it off and turn up ready and raring to go on the training ground, and show he's 'up for it' in the next fixture he plays in.

Elliot struggling in Krul's absence

For a second choice 'keeper stuck behind an obvious pure talent like , then it is a case of biding their time and hoping for a chance to play to work their way into the squad. Whilst it sounds cruel, injury is pretty much the only thing going to keep out a clear cut starter from playing ahead of you! And with Krul injured (Dutch coaching staff must be putting their heads in the sand right now as a result of !), Elliot is finally getting his chance. But in doing so is proving he isn't up to the Premier League or the same elite status that Newcastle have gotten used to with Krul in goal for them, right now.

With Krul in and out of action due to various injuries (I think there must be a curse on Dutch goalkeepers right now, as all of their top, experienced goalkeepers from Krul to Vorm to Sketelenburg have all been seriously troubled by injury this season), Newcastle need a solid go-to-guy on the bench. A lot like Cudicini at Tottenham, a guy who can happily come off the bench and get the job done. This requires a special kind of mentality as you have to be ready to play 'all out' when the chance does represent itself. I think Rob would make a good Championship goalkeeper (like Kusczak has at Brighton) but a lot of the goals were scored due to errors on his part that were rookie mistakes or at fault tehnically. These kinds of goals are concessions that Newcastle can't afford if they want to push up the table and challenge for European spots as in previous seasons, as in the case of Krul's breakout season.

Goals like the first one where he over commits to the wrong side and foot speed means he can't reach out with a dive to stop the curler into his left post. Or on the last where he is caught out again for a required dive to his right. He could also benefit from working with his back four more appropriately and communicate with them to stop so many defensive breakdowns; reliant on his 'read' skills of the set-up in front of him.

Redhill vs Guernsey FC (15/04/14)

So yesterday I went along to another game at the home of football (Redhill, not Brazil, can't see this attempt at humour going anywhere though...!). The game itself was a pretty interesting spectacle with the away fans bringing a bit of fanfare and ardent enthusiasm with them as they crossed the seas to see their beloved team in action! The away team also got into a

Goalie thoughts/playing style
Guernsey's goalkeeper Chris Tardif is a former pro with experience with Oxford United and Basingstoke amongst others. And... it showed! Even at this level, the amount of difference in thought of technical approach to set plays and technique with the little things adding up to show a total of a more rounded and complete goalkeeper.

His height was obvious, being around the six foot mark; one of the key scouting areas for agents of pro 'keepers now (showing the difference in expectations of pro goalies and goalies at this level to be fair) as well as his stature and physique being pretty muscular and capable of longer drives at goal kicks.

Setting up for free kicks, he seemed to prefer to stay nearer his line in case of a redirection and last second change on the flight of the ball. And set up his defence accordingly, with a line of defenders holding a higher line against the opposition hoping to break out on the release of the spot kick.

His shot stopping qualities were most obvious, but he was very vocal and in tune with the players set up in front of him. One save that stood out was where he dove to his left, committing against a shot that went to his right, only to claw out his right hand to keep the ball from heading into the mesh of the net. This in turn showed great reaction speeds to make a movement changing reflex based save, even at the age of 33.

The save in question.

He was also very vocal. A reflection of the need to be like the leader of an orchestra barking out orders to his squad, he gave commands and talked with his team rather than at them! Like Milan from the Chips game and the Hythe goalkeeper, he liked to roam around his area and set up behind his back four on the angle of the last defender in case he was needed as a passing option. Unlike a lot of the other goalkeepers, he actively played as a 'sweeper', rushing out at the right time to kick clear. A lot like you'll see Vorm doing. That level of extra skill on show being a sign of better things?!

He seemed to get away with a sneaky catch at the edge of the area (a fairly guilty like like that of Roy Carrol suggesting so anyway...), which actually looked to be outside the area. Redhill have gotten lucky against a few times with decisions going against opposition goalkeepers, like Crawley Down's goalkeeper handling outside the area and getting sent off to turn the game around. This was essentially at the death, and had Redhill been awarded the penalty things could have been totally different than the 1-0 loss for the 'Lobsters' based on a ground out win for the away side who scored against the run of play.

Kit
I *think* Tardif was wearing Selsport gloves (think he was spotted in Wrappa classics last season), but wasn't really paying enough attention (oops!). Sponsorship might play into that, otherwise no idea!

Redhill vs Hythe Town (12/04/14)

This weekend gone I went down to Redhill again to see them play visiting side Hythe Town. Hythe's goalkeeper was the busiest of the two goalkeepers and put on a great display to keep the score down.

Thoughts/analysis
Hythe's goalkeeper was solid for them and a real difference maker. Without him and his play on the day the scoreline would have been a lot different had he not performed so well. His team pretty much fell apart around him, making things more difficult as they argued amongst themselves and struggled to play a system, so was called upon to make more saves! It seemed to be a case of him almost having a 'blinder', and could have won man of the match for the away side.

• Managed to spill one low ball but otherwise had great and 'soft' hands; gobbled up rebounds, although was unlucky with a low ball that he spilled, rebounding straight off the body
• Great long balls thrown over arm to start attacks (rather than kicking) just like Schmiechel would; good eyes and reads to spot free players
• Low ready stance but not overly crouched like the Chips' goalie etc.
• Very high line up the pitch out of the box during the game
• Unlucky with the first goal from the penalty - almost went the right way to cover
• Great jump; great height and reach for high balls and crosses versus the current idea of scouts for a tall goalkeeper (urban myth of long arms = good goalkeeper!!)

A long throw (one of many) by the Hythe goalkeeper to start an attack.

Hythe's goalkeeper standing way up the pitch on a high press.

The only ball spilt by Hythe's goalkeeper.

Hythe's goalie with great ability to catch a high ball. Old school technique for the win!

Although it was more of a case of a defensive breakdown, it is important for the goalkeeper to be responsible and not drift off to sleep or lose concentration in an easier game. Greaves got caught out leaving his area to go for a high ball, only to end up making a hash of it. Just as a problem for pro's too, with Casillas experiencing a similar goal against Dortmund in UEFA semi-finals last week.

Here he would have been better being more decisive and gone for a clear than stop and second guess himself, causing further problems...

Greaves caught out in 'no man's land' on Hythe's only goal.

Kit
Hythe's goalkeeper's kit:

• Uhlsport goalkeeping gloves - not sure which model though! Looked like rollfinger gloves...
• Tape round socks, above and below shin pad!

Chipstead at Redhill (03/04/14): thoughts and goalie analysis

Being out injured and having to sit out the end of season (and try not to get to mad at the situation), I thought it would be a good chance to go down to some games to practice on my analysis. Going to watch local games is something done in years gone by, and I think it's an element that is really missing from today's game with youngsters missing out on the chance to learn off their goalkeeping 'elders'. The mentoring role not really there until after juniors due to the separation of junior development and senior squads. I've always enjoyed watching sport (with analysis in mind rather than pure watching - get a little bored!) plus I guess analysing the talent on display is more useful than my always overly self critical analysis, so is a chance to proactively analysis than be my own worst enemy!!

Back in the days of the beginnings of football, of Fatty Foulke and co, this is actually how goalkeepers learned to play the position: by going in person to stand behind goalkeepers to watch them in action and then taking away parts of ways they saw goalkeepers play to add to their own game if they thought it'd be useful. They would then go away and copycat/replicate what they saw and could make use of, at the training ground (and matches, obviously!). Copying is the easiest way to learn, but when working out how well you play and what best suits you, this needs to be done thoughtfully with the self awareness of your physiological abilities (speed, height, reaction speeds, reach etc.).

Game review
Chipstead's goalkeeper get his team mates ordered and  with regular communication. The game was more of a defensive battle in midfield and wasn't exactly high octane end to end stuff. Redhill did well to keep their concentration up and hold their defensive shape, combining to play a system that only saw them concede a single goal at the death. Not bad considering their run of luck against Chipstead earlier on in the season. If Redhill had been more creative up front and more clinical they could have really pushed Chipstead for points, as they were definitely in it for the full 90, giving Chipstead a 'run for their money' so to speak throughout the match.

Playing styles
The idea of these posts is to offer more insight into scouting reports and analysis of goalkeepers. I'll try and keep it short and sweet so you don't have to read through mountains of sentences to get the point!

Milan Stojsavljevic has come through the academy system at Aldershot and has been on loan at Chipstead this season, since the Chips wanted an upgrade in goal. He impressed on a loan spell with Hayes and Yeading where he helped the side avoid relegation.

So here's a summary of the key points to his game:

• Plays much more as a 'sweeper keeper' in the new trend of goalkeeping with greater depth to his overall game
• When the long ball was coming, positioned high but was really attentive and able to readjust quickly as needed to match its flight
• Saved easily with a dive to the right against Redhill's only real scoring chance
• Did more of a 'collecting' job; waiting for the forward to break through the line and then running up high in his box to catch the free ball
• Took free kicks and was happy to come out of his area to play the ball to team mates, changing his position in the box to match the angle for a back pass option
• Took a high positioning outside his area when his team were up the pitch
• Crouched ready stance, which is pretty deep (versus current trends; more like a stance like Joe Hart's): helps be more explosive against low shots but question marks over raised shots under the crossbar...

Readjusting to the long ball.

Taking a free kick.

Setting up with the deep stance.

Andy Greaves (Redhill's current first choice, moving up from their juniors):

• Pretty standard approach but came out to head clear a loose ball, more akin to Casillas or Neuer charging out to intercept than a goalkeeper afraid to come off the line

Kit
Given how much of a kit swot/geek I am, I can't help but try and achieve goaliekitnerdvana by listing anything that stands out each match report. The plan is to give some kit insight each time, so here's the first note takings!

Milan Stojsavljevic :

• Puma King (potentially the Aqua ones due to weather conditions, and think they were a flat cut) goalkeeper gloves, versus the Nike Grip3 gloves he was wearing against Redhill in the first half of the season about October time
• Over the knee shorts
• Sweat band on the right arm
• [brownie points for the mohawk!]

Andry Greaves:

• Adidas Predator gloves with a negative cut (I think!); no change in glove in spite of weather conditions
• Still using his long sleeved jersey and rolling his sleeves up!

Ratings
Feels pretty harsh to rate the goalkeepers given they were only separated by a goal, barely faced any true goal scoring chances and so on, so will probably miss ratings this time round.

But worth pointing out the qualities of Milan as a goalkeeper with more technical grounding at this level given what he will have been taught and learnt in his development days.

Most of  Milan's work is done off the ball. In this sense, he monitors the line and shape every time to 'read' the game to a high level. This shows smart goalkeeping with the intelligence and awareness of watch word to shut down attacks before they have a chance to happen. A lot like Lloris in his playing style, he's not getting to have many saves to make because he's not going to allow them to occur in the first instance!!

Whereas the standard observer or coach would expect goalkeepers to come up with magnificent saves to prove their worth, it is actually in this kind of action where the goalkeeping can come into their own; and this is the way the model for the modern goalkeeper is going. Even at this level!

Handanovic: penalty killer!

Samir Handanovic is well known for his penalty shot stopping abilities, enough to earn various titles and nicknames, and listed as a main asset in his scouting report. Whilst with Udinese he built up quite the reputation for himself with his ability to save his team in this way. Up to his old tricks, he saved a penalty today in action against Sampdoria! With his gigantic size creating a visual barrier as he fills up so much of the goal mouth visible to the shooter. Even if the spot kicker has the accuracy to pick a sure fire spot, they still have to look up to meet the ball, which in turn means they have to face looking up at him and being put off. But there is obviously more to stopping penalties than this, such as learning to react to the shot, intense concentration and 'silent eye' (watching the ball all the way through to focus).

When considering what it takes to be a complete goalkeeper, it is worth remembering to work on these errors too, as you never know when you might be called upon to step up to the goal line and stop whoever it is who is stepping up to the penalty spot against you!

You can work on your reactions, as well as studying penalty takers and learning ways to deal with them, as you face shooters regularly over a season.

You can see him in action below, with a couple of  towards the end of the clip demonstrating his penalty killing abilities (!):

http://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail/news-photo/inter-milans-slovenian-goalkeeper-samir-handanovic-saves-a-news-photo/484567963

Could a goalkeeper loan have saved Swansea points?

Although the season's not done yet, it's safe to say that Swansea could be ruing the decision to not have brought in cover for the time being. Norwich moved quickly for Lee Camp when Ruddy got injured last season, and it would seem like a good idea for Swansea to have done the same once they knew that local goalkeeping hero Vorm would be out for a substantial time. Camp was good enough to draw attention for claiming a chance for international call-ups (for Ireland), but seems to have settled in more with new club Bournemouth this time around.

Tremmel just hasn't been up to the same standard of Vorm's golden goalkeeping when he has been called into action. Tall; apparently the golden ration for goalkeepers these days according to agents (solid scouts were enough to take on a shorter Vorm based on inarguable shot stopping ability), but Tremmel is unfortunately not a complete goalkeeper with natural enough athleticism or reactions. Vorm has even looked a little shaky of late since his return from a groin injury whilst stretching out to save against Chelsea. Perhaps out of doubt and second guessing worried about further injury.

This might transfer idea sounds silly but in the bigger picture, someone better than Tremmel would have earnt points that would have seen Swansea rise the table rather than have the lacklustre season they have had after a strong start.

Loan deals for goalkeepers are always dodgy territory and grey areas because of the availability of goalkeepers that would want a short term playing contract, and the availability of the right level of goalkeeper with the ability to play to a standard like the Premier League. And even if a loan deal with the perfect fit is made, a scenario like Casillas being forced out by the great play of a goalkeeper on a 'hot streak' like Lopez would cause issues down the line. As it has with Casillas getting benched and finding it almost impossible to reassert himself as first choice. Hence why it's such a no go normally!!

With this in mind, Swansea could have gone for a young goalkeeper with obvious talent looking for playing opportunity. A reserve choice that the coaching staff might want to put out on loan to help speed along their development. So Jack Butland (who is now at Leeds) or similar, for instance, which would be a better fit; the team would get a young, eager goalkeeper looking to prove themselves and it wouldn't be too much hassle for the club and their goalkeeping depth (politics, fallings out etc.). Like Damian Martinez and his chance with the Owls.