title: Evolution of match performance parameters for various playing positions in the English Premier League.
abstract: This study aimed to investigate position-specific evolution of physical and technical performance parameters in the English Premier League (EPL). Match performance observations (n=14700) were collected using a multiple-camera computerized tracking system across seven seasons (2006-07 to 2012-13). Data were analyzed relative to five playing positions: central defenders (n=3792), full backs (n=3420), central midfielders (n=3200), wide midfielders (n=2136) and attackers (n=2152). High-intensity running distance increased in the final season versus the first season in all playing positions (p<.05, ES: 0.9-1.3) with full backs displaying the greatest increase (∼36% higher in 2012-13). Similar trends were observed for sprint distance with full backs demonstrating the most pronounced increase across the seven seasons (36-63%, p<.001, ES: 0.8-1.3). Central players (central defenders and midfielders) illustrated the most pronounced increases in total passes and pass success rate (p<.05, ES: 0.7-0.9) whilst wide players (full backs and wide midfielders) demonstrated only small-moderate increases in total passes and pass success rate (p<.05, ES: 0.6-0.8). The data demonstrates that evolving tactics in the EPL have impacted on the physical demands of wide players and the technical requirements of central players. These findings could be used for talent identification or position-specific physical and technical training.
authors.affiliation: Department of Sport & Exercise Science, University of Sunderland, UK; Performance Analysis Department, Academy of Light, Sunderland AFC, UK.
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Bush
authors.affiliation: Medical Department, West Bromwich Albion Football Club, UK; CB Sports Performance Ltd., Rugeley, UK.
authors.forename: Chris
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Barnes
authors.affiliation: Department of Sport & Exercise Science, University of Sunderland, UK.
authors.forename: David T
authors.initials: DT
authors.lastname: Archer
authors.affiliation: Department of Sport & Exercise Science, University of Sunderland, UK.
authors.forename: Bob
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Hogg
authors.affiliation: Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, UK. Electronic address: paulbradley94@yahoo.co.uk.
authors.forename: Paul S
authors.initials: PS
authors.lastname: Bradley
mesh_terms: D056352:Athletes; D054874:Athletic Performance; D003163:Competitive Behavior; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010807:Physical Endurance; D012420:Running; D012916:Soccer; D006113:United Kingdom
keywords: Football; Longitudinal; Passing; Positional; Sprinting