Steven Schumacher, the new head coach of Bolton Wanderers, has pinpointed the team’s struggle with conceding goals as the primary concern as they navigate the current League One season. After an arduous campaign which culminated in Bolton finishing eighth in League 1 with a -15 goal difference, Schumacher is about to start an overhaul. He wants to make the team better defensively and make them a little bit better defensively.
Since leaving Stoke City on loan last year, Schumacher has called his journey nothing short of a personal development. He continued to have success at Plymouth Argyle, where he used a very attacking, open style of play. He understands that this has to be different for the Championship. The competition is deeper and more unforgiving, and missteps are more consequential.
“In the Championship, you learn you cannot play that way all the time because the quality of opposition is higher, and you get punished if you lose the ball in poor areas.” – Schumacher
Bolton’s recent history under Ian Evatt has been a huge success. The team found themselves on the cusp of glory, making the playoffs in back-to-back seasons. This side’s defensive frailties were clear for all to see last season, as they let in 70 goals in 46 matches. Schumacher’s goal moving forward is to change that perception, starting with the clearer deployment of an organized defensive block.
“The standout issue was conceding too many goals,” – Schumacher
In the brief time Schumacher’s been in charge, he’s already gained insights into the greater strengths and weaknesses in the squad. Indeed, the Iranian’s new team have gained just seven points from their opening six games, netting six goals but shipping half a dozen in the process. Though he points out reasons for optimism, he agrees that overall our country’s practices are sorely lacking.
“The first few games have shown some good signs, but there is still plenty of room for improvement.” – Schumacher
Schumacher knows that creating a squad to match his tactical vision is easier said than done. With 14 new faces coming in this season he plans to bring heightened energy and youthfulness to the team. He is of the view that once they get a good base defensively that will serve to augment their attacking threat.
“We have been focusing on being better defensively, more organised, and valuing the importance of defending as a team.” – Schumacher
Though the path forward won’t be easy, Schumacher has a bright long-term view for what his squad can accomplish. He’s been keen to point out that they’re generating a lot of chances and keeping an assertive mindset towards goal. One place where he encourages more clinical finishing is in important moments of the game.
“We have also been creating good chances and having plenty of shots. Like any team, though, we would like to be a bit more clinical in the big moments.” – Schumacher
Schumacher deserves immense patience as he faces the blunt, unromantic hard work of squad transformation. He knows from experience just how tricky this process can be. He knows that he won’t be able to make the radical improvements needed in one transfer window.
“The best way to get players on board with that approach is to show them the benefits,” – Schumacher
Bolton continues its strong underdog story in this year’s League One campaign. Schumacher is committed to creating a championship-worthy squad that fits his vision and addresses the mistakes of the past. His commitment to establishing a solid defensive structure is key. By creating an attacking mindset on top of that, he can help propel the team to playoff success for years to come.
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