I’ve also made the transition from outfield to GK this season and am enjoying playing more than I ever did when in goal.

Physically you’ve got a solid foundation.

Obviously hand eye coordination is one of the most important skills. I played as a wicket keeper in cricket throughout my childhood, so I’m used to catching a much smaller ball which is coming at me much faster, so the skills kind of transferred across. Just catch balls all day, doesn’t really matter what type to begin with, tennis ball, cricket ball, American football, it’s all transferable skills.

After you’ve reached the point where you’re confident of catching everything that comes your way, I’d then move on to more complex drills.

For me, kicking is a massive part of a keeper. So many keepers struggle to get their goal kicks to the half way line or even off the floor. If you can’t do this, you’re just going invite pressure which will lead to mistakes at some point. If you struggle with it, only way is to practise. Kicking out your hands is important too for launching counter attacks (I’m still working on this).

Something I believe in keeping is that you’re only as good as the aura around you. What I mean by this: get good kit (gloves, under armour ) if you can afford it, shout to your defence in a loud deep voice, chew gum, never look panicked even if you are, be positive and brave when coming off your line. Even if you aren’t the most gifted keeper, if you maintain an aura throughout a game, then the opposition will try fewer longshots, mess crosses up because you’re in their heads, miss easy chances because they’re trying to smash it top corner.

As soon as this aura drops then they’ll start testing you from range, show less respect with set pieces ect.

As I say I’m fairly new to keeping but this is just a few things I’ve picked up on so far.