Dear Noel, 

I’ve played as a frustrated wing-forward all my life, but this year the new club manager is using me at full-forward. This is the break I need. I’m a good reader of the game. I’ve got pace, and countless ways of losing my man as a move develops out the field. 

The problem, though, is that in the three challenges we’ve played, the supply of ball has been poor. I’ve only received one pass with the O’Neills writing on the ball facing up into my chest. I’ve told the lads out around the middle that I can’t be expected to get the scores we need without a proper service. I’ve also specified that I want a hopping ball, just a few yards to my left, but that hasn’t really happened either.Should I apply for a transfer? 

-       John, Connemara 

 Noel replies – I wouldn’t rule it out John. No harm to threaten it anyway. It sounds to me that everyone involved knows you shouldn’t be expected, under any circumstance, to fight for the ball, or handle messy possession. I’m sure you’ve never given a false impression in this regard, so if your colleagues can’t play to your strengths, I would possibly look elsewhere. 

For now, shout in an angry, northern accent: “Let the high balls in low, hoi”; and “Never mind the length, lads, just get the distance.” If that doesn’t bring about the desired improvement, stop going for some balls entirely, if you haven’t already. 

Make them realise they can’t take you for granted.

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