I I know that it is not really a word but by coachability I mean the ability to learn and develop through coaching. Natural ability & talent is a prerequisite for a modern day footballer but it isn't enough, a player needs to be able to respond to managers and coaches input on tactics and improving on weaknesses including strength & fitness and attitude and approach. I think a great example of that is McAtee who leaves Sheffield United a significantly different player than the one who joined us last summer. Given the time Bogle has been at the club I suspect he is largely uncoachable, he is naturally talented, but he hasn't improved in his areas of weakness - defending and positioning. If he had I would be happy to see him as backup to Baldock next season but as it is we need to add someone who can play that role. What other uncoachable players do you think we have had or are currently in our squad? I don't mean talentless players!
Great post.
I think, in part, it's why we hear so much about humility. As a talented young footballer I'd imagine it's very easy to think you're God's Gift, and plenty do. The ones that progress are the ones who, no matter what, are ready to listen and learn.
Anel spoke about it when he arrived. The management had noticed areas of his game where they thought he could improve, and he came here because he wanted to be a better player. He mentioned for instance, and said it was embarrassing, that he needed to work on throw-ins. The fact that coaches and management had examined his game in so much detail, and the fact that he was open about this speaks volumes for all concerned.
And the progress of McAtee in particular can only bode well for future loans. If a team wants their players to develop, Sheffield United seems like a very good place to send them.
The only qualification I would put on this is if you're going to listen to your coaches then you have to be coached well. It's no good to anyone listening to bad coaches, or listening to managers temporarily exploiting your talent for short term gain.
It's a two-way street.
Maybe the best example of this is Iliman. He seems to be a perfect storm of almost limitless talent, humility, family, management, coaching and even board members who are/were(?) able to help him realise/release his boundless potential.
