Centre Back

Role: To act as the last line of defence before the goalkeeper. Main responsibility is to mark the centre forwards.

Areas of operation: Mainly down the centre of the pitch, almost up to the attacking 3rd. Although may be required in wider areas when covering or supporting a team mate.

Defensive Positional Responsibilities:

• Prevent attempts at goal
• Keep the defensive line compact and organised
• Cover other members of the defence
• Anticipation to intercept if the opportunity arises
• Remain goal side
• Force play away from the goal
• Accept and appreciate their recovery runs
• Remove the ball from danger both aerially and along the ground

Attacking Positional Responsibilities:

• Look to play forward
• Provide support both deep and wide
• Be a source of switching the ball
• Force the defending forwards to move up the pitch

Physical needs:

• Speed endurance
• Acceleration
• Jump
• Strength
• Stamina

Psychological requirements:

• Awareness
• Concentration
• Decision Making
• Bravery

Technical requirements:

• Heading
• Jockeying
• Tackling