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Intelligent Prediction of Soccer Technical Skill on Youth Soccer Player’s Relative Performance Using Multivariate Analysis and Artificial Neural Network Techniques

This study aims to predict the potential pattern of soccer technical skill on Malaysia youth soccer players relative performance using multivariate analysis and artificial neural network techniques. 184 male youth soccer players were recruited in Malaysia soccer academy (average age = 15.2±2.0) underwent to, physical fitness test, anthropometric, maturity, motivation and the level of skill related soccer. Unsupervised pattern recognition of principal component analysis (PCA) was used to identify the most significant parameters in soccer for the current study and intelligent prediction of artificial neural network (ANN) was developed to determine its predictive ability for the soccer relative performance index (SRPI). The PCA has indicated sit up, agility, 5m speed, 10m speed, 20m speed, weight, height, sitting height, bicep, tricep, subscapular, suprailiac, calf circumference, maturity, task, ego, short pass, shooting right top corner and shooting left top corner are the most significant parameters in soccer. Meanwhile, the PCA-ANN showed better predictive ability in the determination of SRPI with fewer parameters such as R 2 and root mean square error (RMSE) values of 0.922 and 0.190, respectively. The current study indicated that only a few parameters are needed to improve and enhanced the performance of novice group. Nevertheless, the prediction method techniques for the present study show very high and strong ability in prediction of the player’s performance. It has highlighted the possibility of defining the optimum number of parameters for the player's relative performance evaluation, which in turn will reduce the costs, energy and time of the measurement. Keywords— artificial neural network; pattern recognition; principal component analysis; soccer


I. INTRODUCTION
Soccer is the most popular game in the world and is performed by male and female, children and adults at all different levels of participation. Soccer performance depends on upon a multilateral elements such as technical, tactical, physiological and psychological components. Soccer is an intermittent nature with action changes each 3-5 s and are physically demanding because of multiple brief, intense actions involving jumps, turns, tackles, high speed runs and sprints [1]. Numerous studies have been conducted to develop a model based on the most significant variables in specific sport that can enhance the effect of the training [2]- [4] or to distinguish between players of different level of participation [5]. With no exception especially for soccer, this approach is needed for the middle country to upkeep the performance to be more competitive when participating in the competition.
Prediction model of the soccer must be performed multilaterally from the physiological, psychological, tactical, technical and anthropometric [6] aspects of the soccer. Advantages of the prediction model by using multilaterally components will help to select variables that were good predictors, specifically for soccer and the prediction model of soccer performance which are based on the most important variables related to the soccer. By approaching prediction model, these methods are sensitive discriminators across level of participation in soccer. Throughout thevalidation process of the model, training for the reliability of the model and lastly cross validation of the model via multivariate analysis which will revealed the accuracy and reliability of the model based on the specific components that significantly changed in the soccer performance. Because of the advantages from these model, it should be applied to all the region in regard to the each country especially in an Asian soccer setting which is specific and unique only for Asian characteristics of soccer players.
It is likely when these models are used to predict soccer player's talent abilities, essential consideration is necessary such as the most significant variables that related to the soccer. Hence, confirmation in prior of the model via multivariate analysis will project the subjective categorical performance and cross validation of classification on predictors will enhance the capabilities of the model itself. These predictive models are often used to rank player at a given point of significant variables (multilaterally) to recognize the talented players [7]. To date, the usefulness of mathematical analysis in sports especially applying nonlinear relations of variable data can be simultaneously analyzed. For example, numerous studies applying multivariable regression, multivariate techniques and procedures in sports whenever deal with many predictors [7], [8].
Furthermore, the accuracy of the equation of sports performance specification primarily depends on the whole methodology of the research, which will lead the results will be of differentiating quality based on the different approaches to a solid research [8]. However, validation of the prediction model of top level athlete's relative performance can be confirmed by applying multilateral factors with repeated observations [9]. The basic problem of previous research of the defining components of an athlete's performance is apparent in the insufficient coherence of obtainable data (operationally) in order to unquestionably conclude what the prediction model of an athlete and/or team relative performance comprises of. Similarly, prediction model might be useful to determine individual performance by improving the individual's training system and the selection of elite athletes [10]. Still, there is a lack of information which components are significantly contributing to the over athletic performance as the relative ability (e.g. training's performance or relative performance in soccer) that can predict the talent of players in the future and also lack of information in the Asian nation because of different operational measurement applied. These will result the coaches could have better accuracy in determining whether an athlete needs an improvement or enhancing on the training program in order to optimize performance. Therefore, this study aimed to predict the potential pattern of soccer technical skill on soccer youth players relative performance using principal component analysis and artificial neural network techniques.

II. MATERIALS AND METHODS
A purposive sampling technique applied to the current research, which is including all the athletes across all soccer academies in Malaysia. Exclusion criteria selection to participate applied when there is an injured, participate in other local and national competition. From the inclusion and exclusion of selection of the sample, overall 184 youth soccer players (mean age = 15.2 ± 1.6 years) were enrolled to participate in this study drawn from eight Malaysian state youth soccer academy. All study protocols, procedure, material and instrument of the research were approved by the university Human Research Ethics Committee. All the players were permitted to withdraw from partaking on this research at any time without any fear of consequences. The coaches, the managers of the academies were informed about the purpose of the research as well as the parents or the guidance of the players. Writing approval was obtained and all the players signed consent forms. This current study, potential pattern of soccer technical skill was operationally defined as a fundamental technical skill in soccer (long pass, short pass, ball control and shooting). Similarly, soccer relative performance can be defined as anthropometric components (age, weight, height, sitting height, body fat skinfold, girth and maturity), physical fitness components (sit and reach, sargent jump, sit up, agility, speed at various distances and predicted VO 2max ) and psychological components (ego and task orientation).
Standard anthropometric testing was conducted which constitutes of chronological age, weight, height, sitting height, body fat %, girth and maturity. Standing height was measured with a wall-mounted wooden stadiometer to the nearest 0.5 cm. Body weight was assessed with a standardized electronic digital scale to the nearest 0.01 kg. Sitting height was tested from the vertex of the head to the seated buttocks and was noted to the nearest 0.5 cm [11]. Skinfold calipers were used to record the triceps, biceps, subscapular and suprailiac to the nearest 0.1 mm whereas the medial upper arm circumference (muac) and calf circumference (cc) were measured via non-stretched measuring tape. All the measurements were implemented by following ISAK protocol [12]. The measurements were obtained twice and the mean value was generated as the final score. Meanwhile, sexual maturity stage of pubic hair based on the criteria of tanner was used as an indicator of sexual maturity status [13], [14].
Muscular strength test was executed accordingly to the recommended method for physical fitness tests [15]. Players lay on their back with their knees bowed at around right edges, while both feet were situated level on the floor. The player's held their hands against their chest, where they should stay throughout the test. In the test procedure, a supporter held the players' feet put on the ground. Players sat up until they touched their knees to both elbows, then they came back to the floor. The routine was frequented as many times as possible under the period for 60 s. The aide totaled and recorded the quantity of right completed sit-ups. The test was measured just once attributed to the impact of exhaustion.
The multistage 20-m shuttle run test was implemented to acquire the player's maximal oxygen uptake [16]. Every athlete kept running for whatever length of time they could afford until could no more keep pace with the velocity of the tape. Test results for every player were expressed as an anticipated VO 2max accomplished by checking the last level and ended shuttle number at the time when the players voluntarily resigned from the test. In spite of the fact that the motivation and drills of the players might influence their scores, it is still a legitimate test in assessing maximum oxygen uptake and can be performed with a considerable large number of players minimizing expenses and time.
Linear sprint speed was evaluated over 30 m. Infrared speed trap (brower timing system) was positioned at the start line (0 m) and 5 m, 10 m and 20 m at a height of around 0.5 m off the ground [17]. Players started the test from a standing start at a distance of 0.3 m behind the initial timing gate before starting the test taking after a countdown from the lead researcher. The players were told to retain running at maximal velocity throughout the full length of time of the sprint test. The players were told to keep up the maximal pace until passing the marker on which the mentor stood. The execution times were recorded at situated at 5, 10 and 20 m respectively. Players performed two repetitions with the fastest times utilized for statistical analysis. At least, 4 min of restoration were given between repetitions.
A Vertec testing gadget (M-F Athletic Co., Cranston, Rhode Island) was utilized to decide vertical jump height (cm), a legitimate and solid measure of leg explosive power [18]. To surface this test, a prepared tester attuned the height of the color-coded plastic vanes such that it paralleled to the athlete's standing reach height. The vane stack was then raised a standardized distance so the players would not jump higher or lower than the arrangement of the vanes. Utilizing a countermovement, the players flexed the ankles, knees, and hips and swung the arms in an upward movement tapping the highest conceivable vane with the fingers of the dominant hand. Every player performed three jumps with 40-60 seconds rest between every jump. The best of two trials was recorded and utilized for statistical analysis.
The flexibility of the lower back and hamstrings was measured by the sit and reach test [19]. The players performed two trials, and the best one was recorded for further analysis.
Agility was evaluated using the 505 agility test. The protocol was conducted as previously described [20]. Pointers are set up 5 and 15 meters from a line marked on the ground. The players run from the 15 m marker near the line (run in distance to form up speed) and via the 5 m markers, turns on the line and runs back over the 5 m markers. The time is documented using infrared speed trap (brower timing system), from when the players first run through the 5 m marker and stopped when they return through these markers. Each player performed two maximal attempts and the fastest time was recorded for further analysis. The players should be encouraged not to overstep the line by too much as this will increase their time.
Technical skills tests such as ball control, short pass and long pass were administered to the players. The basic skills were selected and implemented according to the guidelines provided by (F-MARC battery test), which are developed by previous researcher [21]. This test allows assessment of coordinated dribbling under time pressure and evaluation of speed. Short pass test allows assessment of accuracy and coordination in passing a moving ball. The long pass test allows assessment of passing accuracy and shooting power over a long distance. Shooting (dead ball) test allows assessment of accuracy and coordination in shooting from a dead ball, and shooting from a pass (foot) test allows assessment of accuracy and coordination in shooting from a ground pass.
Furthermore, the questionnaire for achievement in mastery and performance (TEOSQ) was used to ascertain the degree of the player's mastery and performance [22].
Finally, all data of 184 were measured and presented as mean ± SD values. Before main statistical analysis, the total of missing data and data error were checked and it was very small (∼3 %) compared to the overall data and the nearest neighbor method was applied in order to facilitate the data analysis [23]. Normality of data distribution as well as outlier were also checked using Kolmogorov-Smirnov and box-plot method [23].
In this current research, it is involving three main statistical analysis which is Principal component analysis (PCA), Hierarchical Agglomerative cluster analysis (HACA) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) to facilitate the analysis of the model. The first phase of analysis was run using PCA to determine the most significant variables that related to the nature of the soccer game. By using this analysis, it helps to trim down a massive data set which is considered as one of the most prevalent and useful statistical methods for uncovering the latent structure of a set of variables with a minimal loss of original data [24], [25]. Likewise, based on the output from the PCA, specific soccer components related to technical skill performance identified as an input for HACA [26]. HACA was employed to investigate the grouping of the technical skill based on the recommendation of prior study, which is relevant to the related of performance in soccer. HACA is a common method to classify [27] variables or cases (observations/samples) into clusters with high homogeneity level within the class and high heterogeneity level between classes with respect to a predetermined selection criterion [28]. Later on the final phase, output from the PCA treat as an input in ANN. The objective of creating an ANN is to scrutinize the ability of using an output variable parameters from PCA to build supervised classifiers to discriminate between the two different skill levels (expert and novice).
In this current research, the back propagation neural network (BPNN) model was applied based on the recommendation of previous research [29]. The network architecture of the BPNN consists of three layers namely the input layer, the hidden layer and the output layer [23]. Meanwhile, the output layer is the two different skill levels (expert and novice). The hidden layer in this current study characterizes the interconnection among the input nodes, which use a non-linear transformation function that is a sigmoid function [30]. The quantity of nodes in the hidden layer was various via a trial and error technique until the optimal number was completed in order to estimate any nonlinear function with any level of precision, and it was used to examine for the best model for the performance distribution prediction. The performance of the ANN is determined by the correlation of determination (R 2 ), the root mean square error (RMSE) and the misclassification rate (MR). The application of PCA and HACA was performed using XLSTAT 2016, meanwhile an ANN was performed using JMP10 software respectively.

III. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Prior main analysis, Bartlett's test of sphericity (p = 0.0001) and the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin measure of sampling adequacy (0.768) confirmed that the data were appropriate for further analysis. Table I exhibits the descriptive statistics of player's characteristics as projected as mean and standard deviation (SD) values for all variables. From the PCA result, out of the twenty six principal components (PCs) generated, only eight PCs with eigenvalues > 1 was selected for the feed-forward ANN input selection parameters representing 71.68% of the total variance. Nevertheless, Table I also highlighted the factor loading after varimax rotation method in the PCA. Furthermore, the standardized VFs with absolute values equal or greater than 0.70 as the selection edge considered as solid and stable, specifies moderate to strong loadings on the extracted factors in the current study. However, it can be seen from the Table I out of twenty six parameters, only nineteen parameters were identified as the most significant across all variables. Due to the transformations of a new set data, output from this analysis were used as an input for further analysis in HACA and ANN.
Based on the technical skill related components extracted by PCA (short pass, shooting RTC and shooting LTC), selection of the categorical dependent component were used in HACA which lead to the identification of C1 (novice) and C2 (elite) groups. Fig. 1 project the classification of the players in relation to their technical skill related performance group determined by HACA, which is based on the resemblance level of the technical skill relative performance. Selection of the technical skill relative performance as categorical dependent components to facilitate this research is based on the recommendation of the previous research [26].
The summary of the results acquired, given by the correlation of determination (R 2 ), root mean square error (RMSE) and misclassification rate (MR) as presented in Table II. It is shown that generally all ANN models gave satisfactory in predicting technical skill relative performance. Table II and Fig. 2 show the prediction performance of PCA-feed-forward-ANN models for forecasting soccer technical skill using combinations of PC scores (output from PCA) as an input variable. In the proposed Model of Specific Skill related Soccer Performance (SSRSP), the optimum neuron in the hidden layers was five neurons. The R 2 values of training and validation are 0.995 and 0.922 respectively. The results projected by RMSE for training and validation are 0.017and 0.190 respectively. Meanwhile, results show by MR for training and validation are 0.000 and 0.065 respectively. However, five hidden nodes network model are considered optimum as revealed by correlation of determination (0.922), root mean square error (0.190) and misclassification rate (0.065) in validation phase. The ANN model of optimum architecture for specific skill related soccer performance also illustrated in Fig. 2.
The improvement in technologies available to sport scientists, together with the pressure to achieve a competitive advantage, has resulted in large amounts of data collection, often with insufficient time for analysis and interpretation [31]. In this perspective, PCA can be a predominantly useful method to measure the fundamental structure of datasets and reduce these large number of parameters to a small set of independent parameters. Similarly, HACA play a role as a supervised pattern recognition tool to identify the categorical dependent components. Henceforth, by combining these with ANN, a set number of performance predictors can be obtained which relate to independent attributes. In this current research, we aimed to determine the key relative performance predictor variables of soccer technical skill performance by using this multivariate approach.
Based on the result of PCA (see Table I) this analysis revealed the most significant components related to the soccer. Out of twenty six parameters that has been tested, PCA revealed only nineteen parameters show value above the threshold. This indicated that there is a similarity between the measurements taken before and not too exaggerated to say that output form a new data set is actually can be simplified [25]. On the other hand, instead of testing player's performance with all twenty six parameters, this can be simplified only to nineteen measurement in soccer which is cost and time effective. Similarly, the finding from this current study is concordance with prior research stated that, even though a variety of test protocol has been introduced related to the soccer performance, some of it operationally tries to measure a same parameter [32], [33]. Because of it, PCA project a relevant finding which is helping figuring out the less importance parameters excluded from further analysis [34].
Likewise, dendrogram (see Fig. 1) revealed that the two groups were clustered namely, novice and expert. The distinction exists between the groups is resulting from the differences level of technical skill related to the soccer performance. Technical skill has been known to be an essential criteria components in soccer [26]. Based on expert recommendations, a categorical dependent component (novice and expert) created as an input layer for ANN. Similarly, by using multivariate analysis, the finding of the research is more robust, a holistic scope of finding and the finding is more objectivity [35]. The advantages using HACA method is to classify [27] variables or cases (observations/samples) into clusters with high homogeneity level within the class and high heterogeneity level between classes with respect to a predetermined selection criterion [28]. The prediction performance of PCA-feed forward-ANN models for forecasting soccer technical skill using combinations of PC scores (output from PCA) as an input variable. In the proposed model of Specific Skill related Soccer Performance (SSRSP) revealed, the optimum neuron in the hidden layers was five neurons. Based on the result (see Table II and Fig. 2) by using the sensitivity analysis method in PCA as an input in prior analysis of ANN, it revealed very high value in a correlation of determination (R 2 ≈ 1.00) and very low values in root mean square and misclassification rate (RMSE and MR ≈ 0.00). Nevertheless, the finding of this research is in concordance with the previous study showing the very high value in a correlation of determination (R 2 ≈ 1.00) and very low values in root mean square and misclassification rate (RMSE and MR ≈ 0.00) which indicated that the model is declared the best linear model [29]. Similarly, based on the five hidden node model, it is clear that the SSRSP prediction performance shows an optimum value for the all three indicators. This indicated that by applying a combination of sensitivity analysis in the PCA after varimax rotation with a cumulative of variance 71.677 on eight PC's playing a major role in producing better prediction performance of specific skill related soccer performance (SSRSP) in ANN [36].

IV. CONCLUSIONS
In the soccer pattern recognition model, ANN models were established to predict the two levels of skills (Novice and Elite) of Malaysian youth soccer player's relative performance obtained by HACA. Initially, optimization of PCA and HACA conclude that only nineteen parameters in eight PC's with 71.68% of cumulative variance. Similarly, HACA also classified there is two different performance levels of skill exist among the players. Furthermore, ANN showed better prediction performance in technical skill performance on their relative performance with correlation of determination give a high value especially in hidden nodes five. Results acquired for the ANN models show the superior generalization parameters selection of SSRSP models. The use of ANN allows a lessening of the number of relative performance parameters needed to identify the skillful players. The results showed that the model is successful in discriminating technical skill performance according to the two different levels of skill among youth soccer players. This SSRSP-ANN models are definitely very useful tools in helping decision makers achieve better management. For the summary, by combining this method, it is resulting the possibility of defining the optimum number of parameters for the specific player's relative performance evaluation, adding more value for talent identification, create more competitive environment for producing elite players which in turn will reduce the costs, energy and time of the monitoring and development of world class players.