Hello fellow Managers!

I get quite a few emails from newer players about how Football Academy works and some of the "dos and donts", so i thought id write a few basic tips and tricks to get all new starters............er............started!

Please feel free to add / criticise / ridicule / praise at your leisure chaps!

1. "A managers word is his bond"

Nothing puts off other managers like failed transfer deals, bidding wars on players, and going back on your word. If possible - try to stick to a deal when agreed. I would certainly hold managers who did this in higher regard - and it may prove the key when you are neck for neck with another manager in future transfer deals - you never know........

2. "Never be afraid to ask for help"

We were all new to the game once, and i remember more senior members helping me with transfer ideas, tactical tips and strenghts and weaknesses. There is a really good community on the game, and most if not all managers are more than happy to help if asked. This can also lead to building good relationships with managers and gives a good banter feel to the game

3. "Play to your strengths"

You dont always need the best individual players to win games and competitions. Look at Cardiff in Division one. They dont have the best team on paper, but have yet to conceded a goal, and have a 100% record in the league.
There are examples of this in all the leagues and scouting other teams and matches / squads can help you decide on strategies for your own team

4. "A loan can be as good as a signing"

A large number of the top teams regularly send their youth players out on loan. This can be invaluable for the lower ranked teams. Be it a feeder club situation, a one off loan, or a favour between mates - it can prove extremely useful to all managers. A good recent example is Bolton, The signings of Lionel Messi and John Obi Mikel have greatly boosted their midfield and made them hard to beat - can prove crucial in tight divisions

5. "Long Term Planning"

Chances are that each manager is looking for something. Have you got good youth players but lacking squad depth overall? Perhaps its time to cash in on the youth player for 2/3 senior pros? Look at Boltons recent deal for Anelka, and Juventus approach to team restructuring - and youll find great examples of deals that fit both parties and improve both teams. The media pages can also be a good way of setting up long term gossip / manager banter / transfer deals - and it makes good reading for the rest of us!

Hope that helps some newbies and good luck to all managers - except when they face the mighty Gunners!

Cheers

Simon
Arsenal Manager, English Premiership