Posted by scotty - 01/07/2009

Q. hi richard , when you measure youself do you take your shoes off or keep them on

A.

Unfortunately we have to take them off, otherwise I'd wear timberland boots then I'd be 6ft3!!

Posted by James Hunter - 30/06/2009

Q. Hey Richard, firstly don't hate me because I'm a Reading Fan! I have a 15 year old brother who is a goalkeeper and he played in a youth cup final last week, the game went to penalties and he missed the last one meaning his team lost. He's gutted and was really upset. Is there any particular way we can lift him? Thanks

A.

Sorry to hear that but also delighted to hear that.  Reason I say that is because it's when we come up against some form of adversity that we are able to grow as people and improve ourselves.

  It is a shame that they lost their final bt I'm sure there are plenty of lessons to be taken from the experience.  The fact he put himself up to take one takes a lot of bottle and I'd like to think that when the situation comes again he'll take one again and my bet is that next time he'll score.

  There is a quote somewhere along the lines of the harder you fall the higher you bounce back up.  Basically I've always found that in my career my best time has come after getting a setback.  It's great when things are going well but it often takes some form of pain to give you the kick to improve further. 

Your brother will be fine, you can't win every match but it will give him a lot of confidence to come through this and feel stronger for it.  Another quote to finish.. 'A setback is a setup for a comeback' ;-)

Posted by Kevin - 26/06/2009

Q. Hello Richard, I was just wondering what do you think of Scott Flinders? He has just signed for my hometown club Hartlepool and word out from the club is he is set to become our number 1. And also have you ever worked with him in any coaching DVD’s or at any football club? Cheers Richard ...... Kevin

A. Funnily enough I have worked with him, only once at a goalkeeping day for Sells goalkeeping gloves.  He's a really nice lad to be fair and from that session he looked very capable too.  He's a tall lad and has all the attributes needed to be a top keeper so I'm sure he'll do great for you guys.

Posted by jamie - 26/06/2009

Q. hi , i am 17 an am a goalkeeper i hav played for my college for a season in the 1st team an played for varius teams at amatuer level bt wht i want 2 know is sum advice on how to maximise your chances of being a profetional footballer

A. Well first and foremost try to play at the highest non league level you can.  So speak to local clubs and test yourself at a higher level than you are currently playing, if you find that comfortable then let clubs know about your situation and push for a trial.  The most important thing is that you continue to improve your game and when that opportunity arrives I'm sure you'll grasp it.

Posted by Noel McCoy - 24/06/2009

Q. Hello Richie , Just Looking For A Basic Pre Match Warm Up To Use Before My Games ? Also What Are Your Thoughts on the new sells wraps ? Lastly, do you play any other sports to improve your goalkeeping like badminton or tennis ?

A.

Warm up's are quite personal, basically I would recommend doing whatever it takes to feel 100% for the game.  For me it's a mix of handling drills, crossing drills and distribution drills.  I only do a few repetitions of each so not to tire myself for the game.

  I've always been a fan of Sells wraps, not sure if I've tried his latest ones but I have no intention of using anything else in the near future.  Great grip in all conditions.

  Regarding other sports, I used to play loads, I found basketball in particular was great for my goalkeeping and tennis was great for footwork. I don't really get chance to play many other sports now, well except for golf but that doesn't really help my goalkeeping!

Posted by Sue - 23/06/2009

Q. When do you start training for the new season? What about Scott Loach as he is currently away with the U21 squad? Good luck for the new season.

A.

We're back on July 1st, seems to have flown by!  Scotty will be back a bit later, I think Brendan had planned to give him 3 extra weeks so I'm guessing that'll still be the case with Malky, I think he'll join us in Spain.

Thanks

Posted by Matt - 22/06/2009

Q. Alright Rich. Sort of the same as below. I am 19, and I am 5'9. I have played for my County and had England Schoolboy trials. However, due to my height, some coaches who do not know alot about goalkeeping just assume you wont be able to handle whats thrown at you, which is a horible thing to have to deal with, because thats all some coaches see. 'Has to be big to be a keeper'. I personally do not think this is the case at all, as I have dealt with many a high ball against bigger players, and spring, flexibility and agility all come into it. I was wondering what your take on this situation is? Is height neccessary? I do not think it is, and I wish others would see that too. Thanks for your time. Matt

A.

I fully agree with everything you are saying Matt and I fully understand your frustration, I've had plenty of battles myself regarding the same subject.  If you are technically sounds and your 'lack' of height doesn't affect you then it shouldn't be an issue but as you've already found you will find those who believe it is a problem.

  My biggest bit of advice would be to not allow negative feedback regarding your height to be an issue, there will be plenty of managers out there who will judge you on performances so remain positive and maximise what you have.  If you are good enough you will make it.  Hold onto that belief.

Posted by Tom - 22/06/2009

Q. hi richard. i read that players at watford fc use maximuscle supplements for your training. Do you take them? do they help?

A. Yeh I take the Protein powder they do.  I won't take too much but I find it helps with recovery and with muscle building when I am on a weights program (Which I am right now!) I like them but if you already get enough protein in your diet then I wouldn't say they were essential.

Posted by Ben Russ - 20/06/2009

Q. hi rich, not sure why scot is picked infront of you as i dont feel he is yet as good as you specialy coming for cross and braveness, any why good luck togeting it back and challenging each other, what i would like to know is how does the finacial state of the club and world affect you lot, do you guys fear for the worse etc, is their much chance off people staying and people coming in?

A. Thanks, on a personal level it doesn't really affect us in terms of day to day training etc.  Our job hasn't changed, what has changed is that squads are becoming smaller in an effort to cut wages so having a contract with a top club is becoming more and more precious.  I'm sure we'll still be able to bring a few lads in but my guess is that one way or another our wage bill will be significantly less than last season.

Posted by jake - 15/06/2009

Q. hi richard, big fan i am a 6 foot,15 yr old goalkeeper who has just joined a football team pupils and my pe teachers say i could head for great things but my question is would clubs look at me as i dont do that much goalkeeper training, i have just got myself some gloves and i am coming towards 16 now if you could give me any advice that would be great thanks ?

A. If it's something you feel you could progress in and you have a passion for it then do whatever you can to make the most of what you've got.  Watch top goalkeepers, join a team that will test you and improve you and see if you really could become the next top keeper.  I will be running a goalkeeping school from sept 10th if that's of interest??  My website for that will be live very soon www.goalkeepingguru.co.uk .