I would agree with your points, but add that the modern player has become so athletic that ball playing skill sets are losing their priority.

The speed and pace of the game has seen the match being played in one third of the pitch as it moves up and down with each player capable of covering the ground at speed. Pace has become the premium attribute for teams. You could be the most talented ball player, but if you cant get to the ball quick enough then you are out of the game and if you wait for a pass then the opposition will have 2/3 players crowding you out instantly. Its become boring as off sides are decided by VAR and goal celebrations are now a delayed response.

Maybe its an age thing as I'm 65, but for me the spontaneity and joy has gone out of the game, its now an orchestrated drama that relies far too much on the dark arts to 'win' free kicks and penalties.

I doubt if we will ever see the likes of this again as players are more likely to look to retain possession by passing backwards or look to win a free kick than do what Frank Worthington did.





I still watch the game, but the joy and creativity has changed and not for the better IMHO. I have no people will have different opinions and that's exactly as it should be.