The Spreadsheet will soon be retired.

According to The Atlantic, AI is the future of player recruitment, its being predicted that in the next 2 years scouts will be being replaced by AI, basically you won't need someone to read scouting reports, it will be possible to ask for a certain type of player and the AI will give you the suggested players out there based on data and video without having to scout them. It's going to inevitably lead to even more generic footballers and a more boring, robotic game I'm afraid - no room for Mavericks.

 

I've asked AI to recommend a striker:

Considering Barnsley FC's League One status and a transfer budget under £500,000, here are some potential centre-forward signings:

Free Agents:

Gyasi Zardes: The experienced American striker recently had his contract bought out by Austin FC, making him available on a free transfer. His international experience and goal-scoring record in Major League Soccer could provide valuable experience to Barnsley's attack.

Loan Options:

Evan Ferguson: The 19-year-old Brighton striker has struggled for game time this season, scoring only once in 12 matches. A loan move to Barnsley could offer him regular first-team football to regain his form, while providing Barnsley with a promising talent.

Permanent Transfers:

Lower League Talents: Scouting prolific scorers from League Two or the National League could uncover affordable options. Players excelling at these levels may be available within the £500,000 budget and eager to prove themselves in League One.
It's essential for Barnsley to assess each player's fit within their tactical setup and consider factors like wage demands and potential resale value. Additionally, monitoring the January transfer market for any emerging opportunities or players made available by higher-tier clubs could yield further options.

 

It's worth noting that the lad from Brighton is liked with both West Ham and Bournemouth.

 

I think we long abandoned "the spreadsheet" as we knew it and our recruiting has been all the worse for it.

 

One of the best books I've read on scouting/recruitment is "The Nowhere Men" by Michael Calvin. It's 10 years old but still relevant. Despite the shift to spreadsheets and Sabremetrics there is still a place for someone with years of experience and football 'nous' physically watching a player for 90 minutes more than once to unearth a gem.

 

I think it shows it’s a load of bull mate if it thinks we would ever have a chance of signing Evan Ferguson.

 

Of course it's AI. Great. Now we can look forward to players with twelve fingers and three arms.

 

AI is just something better at understanding language.

But useless at understanding data unless it’s been extensively trained.