Clustering U-14 Portuguese regional team football players by lower limb strength, power, dynamic balance, speed and change of direction: understanding the field position factor.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to cluster U-14 Portuguese regional team football players based on variables related to lower limb strength and power, dynamic balance, linear sprint, and change of direction. The sample consisted of 22 young male soccer players (13.83 ± 0.44 years). A set of variables related to lower limb strength and power, dynamic balance, linear sprint, and change of direction was measured. Overall, a non-significant field position was observed. The countermovement jump (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.73), squat jump (p < 0.001), and 30 m linear sprint (p = 0.001) were the main variables responsible for establishing the clusters. Cluster 1 was characterized by a high slalom, i.e., it took longer to complete the test (speed and change of direction) and a low composite score in the dynamic balance. Cluster 2 was characterized by high squat jump, countermovement jump, and reactive strength ratio (lower limb strength and power). Cluster 3 was characterized by low squat jump and countermovement jump (lower limb strength and power), and a high 30 m sprint, i.e., it took longer to complete the test (speed and change of direction). Based on the results of the territorial map, the clusters consisted of: (i) cluster 1: two forwards, one midfielder, and five defenders; (ii) cluster 2: three forwards, two midfielders, and two defenders, and; (iii) cluster 3: four midfielders and three defenders. Players from different field positions composed the three clusters. There was no cluster composed exclusively of players of the same field position. The development of individualized and specific enrichment training programs should consider a cluster analysis, as the positional effect can be overlooked.