FOOTBALL BASICS
Understanding football positions
Football players have different roles depending on where they play and what their manager asks them to do. The main groups are goalkeeper, defenders, midfielders and forwards.
Goalkeeper
The goalkeeper protects the goal and is the only player normally allowed to handle the ball inside their own penalty area.
Defenders
Defenders primarily help protect their team's goal. Centre-backs usually defend centrally, while full-backs and wing-backs can also contribute in attack.
Midfielders
Midfielders connect defence and attack. Their responsibilities can include passing, pressing, creating chances and protecting the defence.
Forwards
Forwards are generally involved in creating and finishing attacking opportunities. Different systems use strikers, wingers or inside forwards in different ways.