Football has eleven players on each side, but not eleven jobs. Positions split the team into goalkeeper, defenders, midfielders and forwards, and each group is asked to do something different. Here is what every position actually does, in plain language.
Goalkeeper
The only player allowed to use their hands, and only inside their own penalty area. Modern keepers also act as the first attacker, starting moves with accurate passes.
Defenders
Centre-backs
They protect the middle of the goal, win headers and block shots. Most teams play two or three of them.
Full-backs and wing-backs
Full-backs defend the flanks and support attacks. Wing-backs, used in back-three systems, push higher and provide most of the team’s width.
Midfielders
Defensive midfielder
Sits in front of the defence, breaks up attacks and keeps the ball moving.
Central midfielder
The link between defence and attack. Often covers the most ground in a match.
Attacking midfielder
Plays between the lines, creating chances and sometimes scoring them.
Forwards
Wingers
Stretch the defence, dribble past full-backs and deliver crosses or cut inside to shoot.
Striker
The main goal threat. Some are target men who win aerial duels, others are fast runners in behind.
How the roles fit together
A team’s formation decides how many players sit in each line. To see how that works in practice, read our guide to football formations.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hardest position in football?
There’s no agreed answer. Many coaches point to central midfield or full-back because of the running required, while goalkeeper carries the highest cost for mistakes.
Which positions score the most goals?
Strikers and wide forwards, though midfielders and even defenders contribute from set pieces.
