What is a joker?
A joker is a neutral player who does not belong to a fixed team, but always supports the side currently in possession. If a team loses the ball, the joker immediately switches sides.
This creates a constant overload around the ball for the team in possession. A balanced game turns into a situation where the side on the ball always has an extra player – just like in a real match when a team exploits space intelligently.
Why jokers are so valuable
They create success. The overload makes retaining possession easier. Younger or less experienced players in particular achieve success more quickly – and success is motivating.
They make drills game-realistic. An overload around the ball is not a training gimmick, but the core of the modern game. Players who learn to recognise and exploit overloads transfer this directly into the match.
They manage the difficulty. By adjusting the number and positions of jokers, you tailor the challenge for both teams precisely. More jokers mean more possession; fewer jokers mean more pressure.
They train transitions. Because the joker switches sides upon a loss of possession, players naturally practise the lightning-fast transition from attack to defence.
Where are jokers positioned?
Depending on where you position the jokers, you train different elements:
Jokers out wide. Positioning neutral players out wide trains switches of play and the use of width. The team learns to circulate the ball via the flanks and switch the point of attack.
Central jokers. A central joker forces players to look for the difficult yet valuable pass through the centre – the most dangerous link in football.
Jokers in fixed positions. If you assign jokers to specific roles like wingers and central midfielders, you mirror a real tactical system. It now becomes about positional play, not just keeping possession.
How to set up joker drills
Starting out. Start with a clear overload, such as two teams plus multiple jokers. Here, success is the priority: the ball should flow and players should build confidence.
Progression. Reduce the number of jokers or restrict their touches (for example, one-touch only). This increases pressure, forcing players to make decisions faster.
Add an objective. Give the drill a goal: a minimum pass count, a point for passing from one joker to another, or reaching a designated zone. This gives possession a clear purpose.
Transition rules. The team that loses the ball must counter-press immediately to win it back – and the joker switches sides instantly. This makes the transition moment an integral part of the drill.
Coaching points
- Find the spare player. Players should learn to actively seek out the joker as an extra passing option.
- Use the joker wisely. A joker is a means to an end – not every pass should go through them, only when they are the best option.
- Movement off the ball. Even with an overload, the rule remains: support after passing, form passing triangles, and stay on the move.
- Quick transitions. Counter-press immediately when possession is lost, and exploit the overload immediately when the ball is won.
Common mistakes
Too many jokers permanently:
Drills will eventually lack pressure, and players become complacent.
The joker as a default outlet:
If every pass goes through the joker, players do not learn to find their own solutions.
No clear objective:
Without a specific task, even a joker drill turns into aimless passing.
Conclusion
Jokers are a simple yet powerful tool: they create overloads around the ball, build confidence, and make drills game-realistic. You can precisely calibrate difficulty through their numbers and positioning – from basic possession drills to demanding positional play with transition moments.
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