Midfielder

A player who generally operates in the middle of the pitch providing a link between defense and attack, often helping out with both duties. This role usually sees the most action during the game and accurate passing is an important skill.

What are the responsibilities of a midfielder?

A midfielder’s main aim is to connect the defense and attack, transitioning the ball between these positions. Depending on the player’s position the midfielder tries to stop opposition attacks, maintain possession for their team or create and score goals.

The defensive midfielder is a key position for all teams as it protects the defense by breaking up opposition attacks and taking back possession. This role can also be known as a ‘holding midfielder’.

Attacking midfielders and wingers are important to a team as they assist the strikers and can also create goal-scoring opportunities or even score a goal. This position is usually the main set-piece taker, often taking free-kicks and corners.