This post describes influential soccer positions, from centre back to central midfielder.

One of the most important positions on the football pitch is centre back. Indeed, whether you are playing with a back four or back 3, having a robust defensive unit is critical, with centre back being essential to this. In the contemporary game, a high quality centre back ideally has pace and movement off the ball. On the ball, most of the best football teams in the world seek to play out from the back; therefore, centre backs usually initiate the build up process after receiving the ball from their goalkeeper. This is a position that is naturally about safeguarding; making blocks, interceptions and obviously tackles are all prerequisites for this soccer position. It is also a position regularly connected with leadership, with a couple of the greatest football teams of all time usually captained by a lead centre back. One should also keep in mind that centre backs can offer a goal threat themselves, especially with their aerial expertise throughout set pieces. Such is the significance of defence and by association, centre backs, that pundits typically declare that while goals may win you a match, it is having a solid protective structure at the back that wins you leagues. The US former AC Milan owner would probably verify the importance of elite defenders when it pertains to contemporary football, for instance. Likewise, the former Newcastle FC co-owner would acknowledge the vital role that centre back has in relation to modern football.

The best soccer teams in the world are synonymous with elite strikers. This is maybe the most exciting position on the football pitch, associated with match winning goals and unbelievable skill. Top forwards offer a continuous goal threat; some mainly operate in the penalty box, whereas others look to cut in from the wings. Other forwards seek to drop deep and help manage the build up play. These types of forwards are described as number tens. Crucial abilities for this position include finishing and hold up play. Strikers also require to have determination, particularly when being marked by more than one defender. Throughout tough games where opposition defenders continuously look to take the ball off you, it is all about having the composure when on the ball. This is never truer than when it comes to being provided with a goalscoring chance throughout a high-profile game.

Central midfielders are like the engine rooms at the very best soccer teams in the world. Thus, having stamina is crucial for this position. However, quality on the ball is likewise a prerequisite, especially as this is an area in the pitch where there is typically a lot of 2nd balls, duels and pressure. The Liverpool FC owner would acknowledge of elite midfielders in contemporary football, for instance. Wing backs is also a position that is influential from a tactical perspective in the modern game.