Andrea Pirlo has been at the top for over a decade now and Suarez has shown himself to be one of the most prolific strikers in world football. The key to their success is superior technique. Everytime the ball is played into either man, their first touch is impeccable. Let's be clear though, any English player can get the ball under control in one touch. The difference with Pirlo, Suarez and the entire German team is that their first touch sets them up to execute the finish, cross, pass or skill that they already knew they were going to complete. The England player controls the ball first, then moves the ball into position for the next phase. The grace with which Pirlo receives the ball is majestic to watch: he always looks in complete control of any situation, whereas Suarez always looks like he could wriggle his way through any adverse situations. Either way, the England team have no similar fluidity. And on the subject of technical superiority...
I have been described as a sportsman with the brain of an athlete and the body of a scientist. Since it was established that playing wouldn't work out for me I have taken to writing.
