It’s Saturday, it’s raining, you don’t have a goalie, and you’re facing an embarrassing defeat unless Fisher gets in his Mondeo and moves. Poor management can ruin your game, but there are a few tricks any pub, office or community football manager should know:

1. Create a central hub

Whether you are ‘Wanderers’, ‘United’ or ‘Athletic’, you will probably have a geographical base as common ground. However, with the demands of modern life, it is not always so easy in practice to meet regularly when not playing. Get online and start using free networking sites.

2. Fix your accessories and follow up

Take initiative and be proactive when it comes to accessories. If your players know when and where they are supposed to attend, then there really is no excuse for not being there. However, it’s your job as the manager to make sure these dates, times, and locations have reached them, so chase, chase, and chase again!

3. Get them talking

Building a great team isn’t just about coach performance, it’s about communication on and off the field. As a manager, it’s crucial that you process feedback from your team. Be sure to encourage post-match feedback and ask your players for feedback on wins, losses, or draws. Even though you are the manager, we all know that everyone on the team has an opinion on how the game could have been improved. Listen to your player and let them have a say.

4. Make your goals clear

Now this is true both ways. When your players score some praiseworthy goals, make sure they get the praise they deserve, even if the match ended in defeat. Clearly communicate your past scores and success to your players, and set your goals for the next game.

5. Set reminders

Do not assume that you will remember to contact all your players on Wednesday afternoon, be sure to write it down in your diary (paper or electronic). As a manager, you’ll obviously have a sharp wit and an eye for detail, but even the best of us get distracted by work, family, or girlfriend issues. Set reminders and do them right away.

The beautiful game is the most played in the world, with 3.5 billion fans in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. While most of these players are literally in a different league than Kaká, Rooney and Ronaldo, good football team management can lead to great things, regardless of level.