Our protocol for acquiring a striker: Anglo-Saxan Chronicle 18

Here is the protocol that I use, as manager of FC Saxan, for acquiring strikers.

1. Check the personality. If unsatisfactory (e.g. ‘low self-belief’), abort.
2. Check whether the player possesses a threshold level of determination. If not, abort unless both of the following conditions apply: (a) the player is young (say 16-17) and (b) the club possesses players suitable to tutor the youngster.
3. Check the injury record. If dodgy, abort.
4. Check the career record, focusing on the goals per game. Interpret the record in the light of the teams they have played for: the weaker the team, the lower the scoring expectation should be. If the record is unsatisfactory, abort – at least unless the striker will play only in a supporting role.
5. Assess how likely it will be, if the player gets into a scoring position, that he will convert the chance. Check first-order attributes, namely (a) finishing, (b) first touch, and (c) composure. If unsatisfactory, abort. If satisfactory, consider second-order attributes, namely (a) technique, (b) heading, and (c) balance. If unsatisfactory, abort. If satisfactory, consider third-order attributes, namely (a) long shots, (b) penalties, and (c) free kicks. If unsatisfactory, abort – at least unless the striker will play only in a supporting role.
6. If the player emerges well from the above steps, offer a contract. If undecided, review the above steps and seek to get off the fence.
7. If still undecided, assess how likely it is that the player will create assists. Consider (a) the career record, (b) distribution (passing, crossing, heading) and (c) general qualities – principally teamwork and work rate.
8. Make a decision.