Excellent post - informative on all levels, both in respect of individual player assessment and team formations and structures. It makes for informed and constructive debate. Just to thank you for your time and efforts. I for one certainly appreciate it.
On a personal note (and it has been enquired of you previously-I think), are you able to direct me to manuals / literature insofar as formations (apart from the basic/standard literature out there) and tactics are concerned. I have educated myself in regard to the development of an individual from youth to senior level in terms of technique, drills, conditioning, speed and agility exercises. It has certainly made me appreciate skillful players a lot more and especially where a player has done something extraordinary which I would otherwise not have noticed or appreciate the difficulty in executing the act. Suarez's goal against Newcastle and the several against Norwich spring to mind.
However, in regard to tactics, save for limited books or articles (eg: importance of Busquets' role in the Barcelona team under Pep), I have drawn from my experience from watching the game over the years. I suppose understanding the philosophy of different coaches as opposed to a manual on zonal marking , pressing or different formations etc would be an easier read. I recall one of the earlier contributors (around 2005/2006) who provided a piece on Rafa's understanding and view of football. It made for good reading and was educational in that one could understand what Rafa tried to achieve and the enjoyment and pleasure when the tactics worked. Barcelona away and the time when Arbeloa (I think was his debut for us) slotted as left back playing against Messi. Phase of Play's contributions and insight has also been missed.
Incidentally, are there specific manuals that licensed Uefa coaches learn from in obtaining their badges?
Cheers