Analysis of the worst-case scenarios in an elite football team: Towards a better understanding and application. Issue 16 (18th August 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Novak, Andrew R.; Impellizzeri, Franco M.; Trivedi, Arjav; Coutts, Aaron J.; McCall, Alan
• Is Part Of: Journal of sports sciences. Volume 39:Issue 16(2021)
• Page Start: 1850
• Page End: 1859
• Publication Date: 2021-08-18
• Subjects: GPS -- team sports -- soccer -- physical performance -- player monitoring; Sports -- Periodicals; Sports -- Physiological aspects -- Periodicals; Sports -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; 612.044
• DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2021.1902138
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0264-0414

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study investigated the variability in the worst-case scenario (WCS) and suggested a framework to improve the definition and guide further investigation. Optical tracking data from 26 male players across 38 matches were analysed to determine the WCS for total distance, high-speed running (>5.5 m.s −1 ) and sprinting (>7.0 m.s −1 ) using a 3-minute rolling window. Position, total output, previous epoch, match half, time of occurrence, classification of starter vs substitute, and minutes played were modelled as selected contextual factors hypothesized to have associations with the WCS. Linear mixed effects models were used to account for cross-sectional observations and repeated measures. Unexplained variance remained high (total distance R 2 = 0.53, high-speed running R 2 = 0.53 and sprinting R 2 = 0.40). Intra-individual variability was also high (total distance CV = 4.6–8.2%; high-speed CV = 15.6–37.8% and Sprinting CV = 21.1–76.4%). The WCS defined as the maximal physical load in a given time-window, produces unstable metrics lacking context, with high variability. Furthermore, training drills targetting this metric concurrently across players may not have representative designs and may underprepare athletes for complete match demands and multifaceted WCS scenarios. Using WCS as benchmarks (reproducing similar physical activity for training purposes) is conceptually questionable.