1. Early Stage
Where large numbers of errors occur as the player attempts to perform the skill. The learner at this stage relies heavily on demonstrations and verbal instruction from the coach.

2. Intermediate Stage
Where the footballer has achieved a basic level of competence and can start to perform the skill at a faster rate and practise it in an appropriately structured competitive situation.

3. Advanced Stage
Where the skill becomes automatic with the player performing the skill under pressure. The player can then work on advanced skills and team plays.

Individual Skills
Skill can be categorised as an individual skill or team skill.

Once the player has learnt the basic individual skills they should be further developed into game-like situations at training. The player is then required to make decisions about what to do with the ball, when to do it and how to execute the skill under pressure.

However it is vital that the basic skills of the game are taught correctly. The effective coach must break the skill down into simple manageable segments before progressing to more advanced skills.