FA introduces three-a-side football for under-sevens in England

The Football Association has replaced five-a-side with three-a-side football for children under seven, aiming to give young players more touches of the ball and keep them actively involved. The change could shape how English footballers learn the game, although its effect on player development will take years to assess. [1]

The FA says the new format follows two years of research with Liverpool John Moores University, which analysed more than 400 matches involving players from under-six to under-14 level. Under the format, three children play without goalkeepers or referees; the games are intended to keep every player active and offer more chances to make decisions and score.

John Folwell, the FA’s head of grassroots coach development, told BBC Sport that research showed players with more touches were more engaged, made more decisions and took part in more physical activity. [1]

The change has brought practical challenges for some clubs. Michael Bland, who coaches Collingham FC’s under-sevens, said the club runs three pitches at once and that a parent’s absence can leave one adult trying to oversee several games. He also raised concerns about self-officiating and teaching children safe tackling. [1]

Another Collingham coach, Mick Goodwin, said a stronger player could dominate a three-a-side game, leaving less confident children with fewer touches. He described the format as promising but in need of refinement. [1]

The FA says the format is designed around enjoyment rather than tactics or competition. Some children and parents at Collingham welcomed the extra space and opportunities to dribble and pass, while one parent said a child accustomed to a more traditional format had needed time to adjust. [1]

The absence of goalkeepers has also prompted concern. Three-a-side lasts for a year, with five-a-side returning at under-eight level. Folwell said the FA did not believe the change would harm goalkeeper development, arguing that children would still practise blocking and positioning, as well as improve their skills with the ball. [1]