Episode 14

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Published on:

23rd May 2025

Ep14: Future-Proofing Yourself — Why Augmented Analysts Will Lead the Next Generation of Football Clubs

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Summary

In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley delve into the integration of AI in football recruitment.

They discuss the importance of understanding AI's capabilities, particularly neural networks and natural language processing, and how these technologies can enhance the recruitment process. The conversation emphasizes the significance of prompt engineering to obtain valuable insights from AI, and introduces the concept of the 'war room' as a practical application of AI in recruitment strategies.

The hosts highlight the evolving nature of AI in football and the competitive advantage early adopters will have in leveraging these technologies for effective recruitment. In this episode, David Bromley and Tom Butterfield discuss the integration of AI technology in the recruitment process within the football industry.

They emphasize the importance of effective prompting to maximize AI's potential, the need for a structured approach to using AI, and the introduction of the War Room as a collaborative learning experience for aspiring recruiters. The conversation highlights the necessity of adapting to technological advancements and the benefits of engaging with AI as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human insight.

Takeaways

  • AI can enhance the recruitment process in football.
  • Understanding AI's capabilities is crucial for effective use.
  • Prompt engineering is essential for getting valuable insights from AI.
  • Specificity in prompts leads to better AI responses.
  • The war room concept allows for practical application of AI in recruitment.
  • AI's potential in football is still evolving and improving.
  • Recruitment strategies must adapt to incorporate AI effectively.
  • Collaboration and communication are key in using AI tools.
  • AI can provide insights similar to a junior colleague's analysis.
  • Early adopters of AI in recruitment will have a competitive advantage. The importance of using technology effectively in recruitment.
  • AI can significantly reduce research time and improve efficiency.
  • Quality of AI responses is directly linked to the quality of prompts.
  • Understanding how to structure prompts can enhance AI training.
  • Many users are not fully utilising AI's capabilities.
  • Engaging with AI early can provide immediate results.
  • AI can simplify processes, reducing the need for technical expertise.
  • The War Room offers a hands-on approach to learning recruitment.
  • Collaboration and diverse opinions enhance the learning experience.

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About the Podcast

Football Insights Academy Podcast
Turning Data Into Game-Changing Insights.
Welcome to The Football Insights Academy Podcast, the ultimate destination for football enthusiasts, aspiring analysts, scouts, and recruitment professionals who want to understand the beautiful game beyond what’s visible on match day. This podcast is dedicated to demystifying the world of football analytics, scouting, and recruitment while empowering listeners to elevate their understanding of the game.
Each episode is packed with:
Deep Dives into Playing Styles: Learn how teams operate on and off the ball with practical insights into identifying tactical frameworks, key player roles, and system dynamics.
Data-Driven Decision Making: Discover how to turn raw stats into actionable insights, with a focus on metrics that matter, from the now mainstream expected goals (xG), through progressive passes, and defensive duels to cutting edge off-ball metrics.
Player Evaluation & Recruitment: From uncovering hidden gems to identifying ‘appropriate’ players for specific roles and styles, we break down the process of effective scouting in a way that’s accessible to beginners and professionals alike.
Real-World Tools and Frameworks: Gain hands-on knowledge of platforms like Wyscout and actionable workflows to identify and evaluate talent using data, including exportable metrics and case studies.
Career Growth Tips: Learn how to get started or level up in football analysis, scouting, or recruitment with practical advice and career-focused strategies.
Designed for those serious about understanding football beyond the surface, the podcast covers everything from core concepts like team playing styles and counter-attacking overlays to advanced recruitment strategies that clubs need today. We also explore the latest trends in football analytics, share inspiring success stories, and provide actionable takeaways for professionals working (or aspiring to work) in the game.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a budding analyst, or a seasoned scout looking to sharpen your skills, The Football Insights Academy Podcast is your go-to resource for developing a deeper understanding of football and making smarter decisions in the world of scouting and recruitment.
Subscribe now and start your journey toward unlocking the game within the game!
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About your hosts

Thomas Butterfield

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I'm a very approachable obsessive learner who is always interested in the stories of others, and how that information and experience can be used to help others move the needle of their life in a positive direction.

As a result of the work I do adults and younger people understand the importance of being an active participant in their own health.

The result of this is we at Elevate Health Chiropractic and Wellbeing are putting better educated individuals into the community who are making better health decisions for themselves and those they care for the most.
They move better, they eat better, they think better.

They Feel Better.

We are always looking to work with and help individuals and organisations who value their own health, that of their family, or their staff high enough to take that next step with Elevate Health, Chiropractic and Wellbeing.

David Bromley

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For the last fifteen years I have applied my analytical, systems-evaluation and financial background to the football industry.

As a long-term student of the game I hold coaching badges from the English Football Association and am a certified member of the Professional Football Scouts Association.

I hold distinctions in the Prozone (STATS) Professional Performance Analysis/ Performance Data & Recruitment Certificates Levels 1,2 & 3 in addition to being an F.A. Registered Intermediary.

My experience in football has enabled me to view player recruitment from the 'sharp end' and allows me to tailor my service to meet clients' best interests.