The close-season is an ideal time for managers and players to rest, but some people want to stay one step ahead. This summer, in the south of France, the Under-21 Toulon Tournament has been taking place - unfortunately England have been eliminated - and it has provided, yet again, a wonderful platform for coaches and scouts to watch some of the world's potential stars.

One manager in particular has been out on a double mission, as a student on The FA's Pro-Licence programme, he's been in France analysing the international matches, but as manager of Millwall, Mark McGhee has been keeping a keen eye on some of the talent and he told TheFA.com about it all... 

TheFA.com: So Mark, you're here in Toulon, what are you here to see?

Mark McGhee: I am on The FA's Pro-License course and part of the course is to have a look at an International football tournament. We look at match analysis and the strengths, weaknesses and the tactics and strategies employed. We also look at players and what they contribute.

TheFA.com: What differences are there between this and club football? 

MM: Well, I think there are a lot of similarities. But as a manager you are always looking to see if there is a better way of doing things. I think it has made me more aware of the preparation needed for an International tournament and the area I have learnt a lot from is the psychology that has been used. How much more of an influence that can be if you get it right. If you lose a game, how can you use that positively with the players, for example. 

TheFA.com:  What has the Pro-Licence course taught you? 

MM: We have done non-stop practical coaching most of our lives but this is to take a more considered look at psychology, physiology, diet and general preparation. If you like it is looking at the cerebral aspects of the game.

TheFA.com: Anything that you will take back to the Den with you?

MM: Part of the course is to examine your own strengths and weaknesses. I have been made more aware of how to manage my time. I realise I can take pressure of myself especially with training by planning further ahead. By planning further ahead I can monitor my players physically and psychologically. It was an area I had to improve on and this has made me more aware of that and I intend to use it at Millwall.

TheFA.com: So what has stood out about the young players after watching these games?

MM: Young players are easily influenced and therefore it is important that you impress upon them good habits which will stand them in good stead for the rest of their career. It also means taking a professional approach to the profession over diet, fitness - basically all aspects of the game. 

TheFA.com: Away from the course, is there any players that have caught your eye?

MM: Yes there is and when I get back I will be making a phone call to see what the position is. So it may have been worthwhile in more ways than one...

Mark McGhee was talking to Lawrie Madden

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