Beneath is a concise run-through of essential skills and positions in modern football.

How has the position of centre back progressed in the last few years? Well, many of the very best teams in the world play with a high defensive line. This suggests that centre backs need to be positive with one-on-one defending, especially doing opposition counter attacks. Therefore, rate and positional awareness are highly useful characteristics for the modern centre back. Modern defenders likewise need to be extremely positive with the ball at their feet, with leading football clubs frequently opting to play out from the back. Centre backs also have to be strong communicators, as they'll frequently be entrusted with organising the back line. The Liverpool FC owner would identify the value of signing top centre backs, for example.

When analysing the very best soccer teams in the world, it is interesting to keep in mind how many sides have fun with a front three. Operating with a four-three-three supplies the team with a triangular structure in attack; one central striker, and 2 wing forwards. However, in contemporary soccer, not unusual to see forwards playing in a front three swap positions, with this positional fluidity having the capability to unsettle opposition defences. The former AC Milan US owner would acknowledge the significance of signing leading footballers, for instance, as would the former Aston Villa owner.

Exactly what are some of the key skills needed to be a top central midfielder? Just what do central midfielders have to bring to the best football teams in the world today? Well, to start with it is important to explain there are various approaches to the position. Some world class central midfielders will be excellent all-rounders, whilst others will be renowned for their proficiency for particular functions. What is essential is having the ability to properly pass the ball. This may sound obvious, but you will typically hear former professional soccer players (some of whom have actually bet some of the best football teams of all time) stressing the value of doing the basics well. Certainly, a few of the key needs of the position are deceptively simple; getting the ball in tight pockets, using up the ideal positions off the ball, and so on. Indeed, a top central midfielder will belong to the engine of the side, both moving forward and in defence. Some world class midfielders have the capacity to power through the opposition midfield; others are celebrated for the creativity they give their team. Throughout history, the very best midfielders have actually likewise provided a goal threat, whether it through their shooting prowess or their capacity to make late face penalty box. On the other hand, defensive midfielders are highly prized in the game today for the strategic structure they provide to their team. Playing simply in front of the defence, they include extra security for the back line. Some top defensive midfielders will even occasionally score goals for their team too.