Blind's View Of Modern Football

It may sound obvious, but Daley Blind loves football. The Dutchman is a student of the game and all that it involves, which is exemplified by his ability to excel in a number of different positions for Louis van Gaal and Manchester United.

With this in mind, ManUtd.com sat down with the Dutchman to quiz him on the modern world of football, delving into his past to gain an insight into his flourishing career. From discussing the benefits of sports science and the ramifications of fame, here’s what he had to say…

Are you a fan of sports science and has it changed your game in any way?
Things like GPS have made it better, you can measure a lot with those systems and see exactly how many times the heart beats in a minute, see what your heart-rate is and if you are fit or not. I think it is important to improve the sport, but not only football – other sports as well. I think we have improved in the last 10 years with all of the new advancements and I think that is good.

What is more important as a midfielder, brains or brawn?
I prefer brains because I am more a player like that, but I think it is a little bit of both. But, for me, the most important thing is to be smart.

What advice would you give to the 18-year-old Daley Blind?
I would advise him to be more confident in himself because, back then, I didn’t play my best games. I had just made my debut but then I had a fall back, in terms of form. After that, I picked it up. I went forward and eventually went up, and up, and up again. Now I am at Manchester United and it has worked out okay. I am proud of that.

Of the 11 positions on the pitch, which do you think is the toughest to play?
That is difficult to answer. Every position has its own demands and every position has its own difficulties. I don't think there is one position that is more difficult. Every player has to be aware of what he has to do in that position and he has to be good in that position. Everything is different. If you play me as a striker, it is difficult for me but, if you play me in midfield, then it is easier for me. Every player has his own position so I don’t think there is one that is the most difficult.

Modern players have to deal with a certain level of fame. How do you cope with that?
I think about it a lot. When I do something on Instagram, or on social media, you have to be aware of what you are doing and you have to be aware of what you are posting online. If I post something, or somebody else at United does, then you know it is going around the world and could be in the news. It can be difficult. You have to be smart, because you don’t want to be in the news! (laughs)

Finally, if you could take one attribute from one of your team-mates, what would it be?
That is another difficult one. Erm… I think I would take a bit more strength from somebody, maybe from Memphis or one of the central defenders. I think I would take that.