PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE IN PROFESSIONAL SOCCER MATCH-PLAY: FACTORS AFFECTING, CHARACTERISTICS AND CONSEQUENCES FOR TRAINING AND PREPARATION

Abstract

This thesis presents, discusses and critically evaluates the content and contribution of a selection of research papers published in international peer-reviewed sports science journals. Collectively, these works make a novel contribution to the field of motion analysis of physical performance in official professional soccer competition. Rather than being the result of an initial grand working plan, the programme of research represents the evolution and expression of the author's work over a period of 4 years in a professional soccer club. The research was partly shaped by the author's concomitant experience of the industry and academia but mainly driven by emerging and evolving needs-analyses identified within his work. A total of 1 review (presented in the thesis as an introduction to the field of study) and 9 original peer-reviewed articles are included. This thesis introduces and critically comments on papers within two main streams of work investigating competitive physical performance in the author’s own professional soccer team: a) general characteristics and position-specific demands of play, and; b) factors potentially affecting performance. The original research papers are presented in a conceptual sequence within the two themes, rather than a strictly chronological order so as to demonstrate the coherence and synergy within the two collections. The thesis provides critical reflection on the overall contribution to the current body of scientific knowledge and the collective impact of the papers that has been achieved. Limitations in study designs encountered over the course of the work are discussed as are current and future themes for research.