Gary Lineker says pushy parents are damaging
England's chances of developing international
class players.
The ex-England striker claimed in the New Statesman
that the country's "long-ball culture" has been
"exacerbated by the maniacal parents on the touchline
spouting nonsense at their children".
But the BBC Match of the Day presenter praised the
FA's decision to bring in smaller-sided games on
smaller pitches.
He also praised the role of academies saying: "The
revolution has begun."
Lineker, 52, who played 80 times for England scoring
48 goals, believes the approach of some parents was
harming children's confidence and that "big lads" who
play direct football have too often been favoured in the
youth ranks.
He said: "It's obvious, then, why we have a long-ball
culture: the big lads who can kick it furthest are the
ones that stand out."
And then, in reference to the technical, short passing-
based game favoured by world and European
champions Spain, he added: "What chance for the
diminutive yet gifted midfielder? No chance of him
developing his tiki-taka football.
"The only way to get to the other end of the pitch is to
belt it and then belt it again."
He continued: "The competitive nature of most mums
and dads is astounding. The fear they instil in our
promising but sensitive [youngsters] is utterly
depressing. We need a parental cultural revolution."
Lineker believes things are gradually changing, with
some academies insisting that parents must be quiet
and only applaud.
He said: "This has allowed talented young players to
express themselves on the field, to take people on, to
try a trick, all without the dreaded, predictable rubbish
cascading into their ears. This is a very good thing."
Lineker's comments follow the creation of a Football
Association commission, a body designed to improve
the fortunes of the England national team.
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