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Forward (association football)
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The forward (no. 10, in red) is past the defender (no. 16, in white) and is about to take a shot at the goal. The goalkeeper will try to stop the forward from scoring a goal by preventing the ball from passing the goal line.

In the sport of association football, a forward (or attacker) is an outfield position which primarily plays farther up the pitch than midfielders and defenders. As with any attacking player, the role of the forward relies heavily on being able to create space for attack.[1] Their advanced position and limited defensive responsibilities mean forwards normally score more goals on behalf of their team than other players.

Attacking positions generally favour direct players who take on the defense of the opponent in order to create scoring chances, where they benefit from a lack of predictability in attacking play. Modern team formations normally include one to three forwards. For example, the common 4–2–3–1 includes one forward.[2] Less conventional formations may include more than three forwards, or sometimes none.[3][4]

Centre-forward

[edit]

Brazilian striker Ronaldo (middle, in white) taking a shot at goal. A multi-functional forward, he has influenced a generation of strikers who followed.[5]

The traditional shirt for centre-forwards is number 9. The traditional role is to score the majority of goals on behalf of the team.

If they are tall and physical players, with good heading ability, the player may also be used to get onto the end of crosses, win long balls, or receive passes and retain possession of the ball with their back to goal as teammates advance, in order to provide depth for their team or help teammates score by providing a pass ('through ball' into the box), the latter variation usually requiring quicker pace and good movement, in addition to finishing ability. Most modern centre-forwards operate in front of the second strikers or central attacking midfielders, and do the majority of the ball handling outside the box. The present role of a centre-forward is sometimes interchangeable with that of an attacking midfielder or second striker, however, especially in the 4–3–1–2 or 4–1–2–1–2 formations. The term centre-forward is taken from the earlier football playing formations, such as the 2–3–5, in which there were five forward players: two outside forwards, two inside forwards, and one centre-forward. The term "target forward" is often used interchangeably with that of a centre-forward, but usually describes a particular type of striker, who is usually a tall and physically strong player, who is adept at heading the ball; their main role is to win high balls in the air, hold up the ball, and create chances for other members of the team, in addition to possibly scoring many goals themselves. However, the two terms are not necessarily synonymous, with the target forward having developed into a more specialised role, while the centre-forward description is more broad, encompassing many types of forwards.[6]

When numbers were introduced in the 1933 English FA Cup final, one of the two centre-forwards that day wore the number 9 – Everton's Dixie Dean, a strong, powerful forward who had set the record for the most goals scored in a season in English football during the 1927–28 season. The number would then become synonymous with the centre-forward position (only worn that day because one team was numbered 1–11 whilst the other was numbered 12–22).[7]

Striker

[edit]
Gabriel Batistuta holding his old number 9 Fiorentina jersey. The number most associated with the position, he was an out and out striker.

The role of a striker is rather different from that of a traditional centre-forward, although the terms centre-forward and striker are used interchangeably at times, as both play further up the field than other players, while tall, heavy and technical players, like Marco Van Basten, Oliver Bierhoff, and Edin Džeko, have qualities which are suited to both positions.[8] Like the centre-forward, the traditional role of a striker is to score goals; strikers are therefore known for their ability to peel off defenders and to run into space via the blind side of the defender and to receive the ball in a good goalscoring position, as typified by Ronaldo, Andriy Shevchenko and Thierry Henry.[9] They are typically fast players with good ball control and dribbling abilities. Shorter statured, more agile strikers like Michael Owen, Romário, Dries Mertens, Sergio Agüero, and Paulo Dybala have an advantage over taller defenders due to their short bursts of speed.

Good strikers should be able to shoot confidently with either foot, possess great power and accuracy, and have the ability to link-up with teammates and pass the ball under pressure in breakaway situations. While many strikers wear the number 9 shirt, such as Alan Shearer, an out and out striker, the position, to a lesser degree, is also associated with the number 10, which is frequently worn by more creative deep-lying forwards such as Pelé, and occasionally with numbers 7 and 11, which are often associated with wingers.[7]

Second striker

[edit]
Wayne Rooney, shown wearing the number 10 jersey, was used at Manchester United as a second striker on many occasions, playing behind the number 9.[10]

Deep-lying forwards or second strikers have a long history in the game, but the terminology to describe their playing activity has varied over the years. Originally such players were termed inside forwards, creative or deep-lying centre-forwards ("sub forwards"). More recently, the role has occasionally been colloquially referred to as the centre-forward role, however, two more variations of this old type of player have developed: the second, or shadow, or support, or auxiliary striker and, in what is in fact a distinct position unto its own, the number 10;[11][12][13] the former role is exemplified by players such as Dennis Bergkamp (who would play just behind the striker Thierry Henry at Arsenal),[14] Alessandro Del Piero at Juventus,[15] Youri Djorkaeff at Inter Milan,[16][17][18] or Teddy Sheringham at Tottenham Hotspur.[19] Other creative offensive players who play further back, such as Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona, Ronaldinho, Kaká, Rivaldo, Michael Laudrup, and Zinedine Zidane are often instead described as the "number 10", and usually operate as an attacking midfielder or advanced playmaker.[13]

The second striker position is a loosely defined and most often misunderstood description of a player positioned in a free role, somewhere between the out-and-out striker, whether the player is a "target man" or more of a "poacher", and the number 10 or attacking midfielder, while possibly showing some of the characteristics of both. In fact, a term coined by French advanced playmaker Michel Platini, the "nine-and-a-half", which he used to describe the playing role of his successor in the number 10 role at Juventus, Italian playmaker Roberto Baggio, has been an attempt to become a standard in defining the position.[20] Conceivably, a number 10 can alternate as a second-striker provided that the player is also a prolific goalscorer; otherwise, a mobile forward with good technical ability (dribbling skills and ball control), acceleration, vision, passing, and link-up play, who can receive the ball and retain possession, in addition to being capable of scoring goals and creating opportunities for a less versatile centre-forward, is more suited to playing in the second striker role. This player should also be able to position themselves well in order to receive passes and subsequently either create or finish off a goalscoring opportunity. They should also be capable of finishing well with either foot as well as their head (which is less common, seeing as many second strikers are diminutive creative players),[21] as this will lead to a good scoring percentage on attempts on goal and give their team an advantage offensively. Although they are often deployed in a free role, and given "license to roam", and either run forward or drop further back in order to pick up the ball in deeper areas, giving them more time and space in possession, second or support strikers do not tend to get as involved in the orchestration of attacks as the number 10, nor do they bring as many other players into play, since they do not share the burden of responsibility, functioning predominantly in a supporting role as assist providers.[22][23] In Italy, this role is known as a "rifinitore", "mezzapunta", or "seconda punta",[24][25] whereas in Brazil, it is known as "segundo atacante"[26] or "ponta-de-lança".[27]

Inside forward

[edit]
2–3–5 formation: the inside forwards (red) flank the centre-forward.

The position of inside forward was popularly used in the late nineteenth and first half of the twentieth centuries. The inside forwards would support the centre-forward, running and making space in the opposition defense, and, as the passing game developed, supporting him with passes. The role is broadly analogous to the "hole" or second striker position in the modern game, although here, there were two such players, known as inside right and inside left.

WM formation: the inside forwards (red) occupy a more withdrawn position supporting the centre-forward and outside right and left.

In early 2–3–5 formations the inside-forwards would flank the centre-forward on both sides. With the rise of the WM formation, the inside forwards were brought back to become attacking midfielders, supplying balls to the centre-forward and the two attacking outside forwards – known as the outside right and outside left. In Italian football jargon, the inside forward was initially occasionally known as a mezzala (literally "half-winger", not to be confused with wing-half); however, the use of this particular term to describe inside forwards is now obsolete, as the mezzala label was later reapplied to describe the role of offensive-minded central midfielders in Italian football, while the inside forward role was instead labelled as "interno" ("internal", in Italian) in Italian football in subsequent years.[28][29][30]

In today's game, inside forwards have been pushed up front to become either out-and-out attackers or false-9s, or out wide to wingers (in a 4–3–3 formation), or they have even been switched to a deeper position in which they are required to drop back to link-up with the midfield, while also supporting another striker playing alongside them up front (in a 4–4–2 formation). Many teams still employ one of their strikers in this latter more withdrawn role as a support forward for the main striker, in a role broadly similar to the inside forward.

Outside forward

[edit]
Vittorio Pozzo's Metodo system from the 1930s featured attacking wingers or outside forwards.

An outside forward plays as the advanced forward on the right or left wing – as an outside right or outside left, typically as part of a 2–3–5 formation or one of its variants. As football tactics have largely developed, and wingers have dropped back to become midfielders, the terminology has changed and "outside forward" has become a historical term. Many commentators and football analysts still refer to the wing positions as "outside right" and "outside left". Such players in the modern era have been labelled "wing forwards", particularly when the two wingers play high up the pitch in a 4–3–3 or similar formation, where the front 3 attacking players have 3 central midfielders behind them. A wing forward who is known for cutting inside and shooting can have the term "inverted winger" used interchangeably.

The responsibilities of an outside forward include but are not limited to:

  • Scoring: their first option should be to shoot, while their second option should be to find another way to create a goal opportunity for the team.
  • Passing: when they run into a shooting angle that is unlikely to become a goal, they must find a way to pass the ball to the middle of the penalty box area allowing the centre-forwards to finish the job.
  • Crossing: a main job of outside players, or players in the wide areas, especially forwards is their ability to cross the ball to the middle of the field in front of the goal for the central players to score from

Due to these responsibilities some of the most important attributes include:

  • Good dribbling and circumventing defenders
  • Speed as a necessity to produce effective counter-attacks
  • Technical ability to strike a ball
  • Quickness in deception to pass a defender
  • Striking technique to get on the end of crosses from wide players of the opposing side

Winger

[edit]
Main article: Midfielder § Winger
Cristiano Ronaldo has been deployed as an inverted winger.

A winger is an offensive player located in a wide position near the touchlines. They can be classified as forwards, considering their origin as the old "outside-forward" position, and continue to be termed as such in most parts of the world, especially in Latin and Dutch football cultures. However, in the British game (in which the 4–4–2 formation and its variants are most commonly used) they are usually counted as part of the midfield.

It is a winger's duty to beat opposing full-backs, deliver cut-backs or crosses from wide positions and, to a lesser extent, to beat defenders and score from close range. They are usually some of the quickest players in the team and usually have good dribbling skills as well. In Dutch, Spanish and Portuguese usage, the defensive duties of the winger have been usually confined to pressing the opposition fullbacks when they have the ball. Otherwise, a winger will drop closer to the midfield to make themself available, should their team win back the ball.

An inverted winger, Mohamed Salah plays on the right wing, a position which allows him to cut inside to his stronger left foot.

In British and other northern European styles of football, the wide-midfielder is expected to track back all the way to their own corner flag should their full-back require help, and also to track back their marker, as well as tucking into the midfield when the more central players are trying to pressure the opposition for the ball. This is a large responsibility for attack-orientated players, and particularly those like Joaquín (winger/wide midfielder), or Ryan Giggs (winger/striker), and John Barnes (winger/central midfielder), who lack the physical attributes of a wing-back or of a more orthodox midfield player. As these players grow older and lose their natural pace, they are frequently redeployed as "number 10s" between the midfield and the forward line, where their well-honed ball control, technical skills, ability to create chances, and improved reading of the game in the final third can serve to improve their teams' attacking options in tight spaces. An example is Inter Milan's use of veteran Luís Figo behind one or two other attackers, either as a second striker or in a playmaking role as an attacking midfielder.[31]

In recent years there has been a trend of playing inverted wingers – wide players stationed on the 'wrong' side of the pitch, in order to enable them to cut inside and shoot on their stronger foot and sometimes provide in-swinging crosses. This tactic was used by Frank Rijkaard, who, whilst at Barcelona, moved Lionel Messi from the left flank onto the right wing, initially against the player's wishes. This allowed him to cut into the centre and shoot or cross with his left foot.[32] Another example of a successful inverted winger partnership was Bayern Munich's pairing of the left-footed Arjen Robben alongside the right-footed Franck Ribéry, on the right and left flanks respectively.[33]

A description that has been used in the media to label a variation upon the inverted winger position is that of an "attacking", "false", or "goalscoring winger", as exemplified by Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale's roles on the left and right flank during their time at Real Madrid in particular. This label has been used to describe an offensive-minded inverted winger, who will seemingly operate out wide on paper, but who instead will be given the freedom to make unmarked runs into more advanced central areas inside the penalty area, in order to get on the end of passes and crosses and score goals, effectively functioning as a striker.[34][35][36][37][38] This role is somewhat comparable to what is known as the raumdeuter role in German football jargon (literally "space interpreter"), as exemplified by Thomas Müller, namely an attacking-minded wide player, who will move into central areas in order to find spaces from which he can receive passes and score or assist goals.[39]

The "false winger" or "seven-and-a-half" is instead a label which has been used to describe a type of player who normally plays centrally, but who instead is deployed out wide on paper; during the course of a match, however, they will move inside and operate in the centre of the pitch, in order to drag defenders out of position, congest the midfield and give their team a numerical advantage in this area, so that they can dominate possession in the middle of the pitch and create chances for the forwards; this position also leaves space for full-backs to make overlapping attacking runs up the flank. Samir Nasri, who has been deployed in this role, once described it as that of a "non-axial playmaker".[40][41][42][43][44][45][46]

On occasion, the role of an offensive winger can also be occupied by a different type of player. For example, certain managers have been known to use a "wide target man" on the wing, namely a large and physical player who usually plays as a centre-forward, and who will attempt to win aerial challenges and hold up the ball on the flank, or drag full-backs out of position. Jostein Flo epitomizes this role so much so that a tactic was named after him – Flo Pass. Egil Olsen, while managing the Norway national football team, positioned Flo, usually a centre-forward, on the right flank to exploit the opposition full-backs' lack of aerial abilities. Another example is Mario Mandžukić, a natural centre-forward, who was used on the left flank under manager Massimiliano Allegri at Juventus during the 2016–17 season, as well as the following season. Unlike wide target men of earlier eras, Mandžukić was also tasked with pressing opposing players.[47] Romelu Lukaku has also been used in this role on occasion.[48]

False 9

[edit]
Lionel Messi (front, no. 10) has been used in the false 9 position to much success throughout parts of his career.

A false 9, similar to a more advanced attacking midfielder/playmaker role, is an unconventional lone striker or centre-forward, who drops deep into midfield. The purpose of this is that it creates a problem for opposing centre-backs who can either follow the false 9, leaving space behind them for onrushing midfielders, forwards or wingers to exploit, or leaving the false 9 to have time and space to dribble or pick out a pass. The term comes from the traditional number for centre-forwards (nine), and the fact that normally a centre-forward traditionally stayed near the line of defenders until they got an opportunity to move past them toward goal.[49] Key attributes for a false 9 are similar to those of a deep-lying striker: dribbling ability to take advantage of space between the lines, good short passing ability to link up with the midfield and vision to play through teammates making runs from deep to goal.

The first false 9 in a World Cup was Juan Peregrino Anselmo in the Uruguay national team, although he could not play the match against Argentina in the 1930 World Cup due to injury. Matthias Sindelar was the false 9 of the Wunderteam, the Austria national team, in 1934.[50] In South America, in 1941, River Plate's La Máquina team started using the left winger Adolfo Pedernera as a man of reference. When Pedernera transferred to Atlanta, a young Alfredo Di Stéfano took his place.[51] A false 9 was also utilised by Hungary at the beginning of the 1950s, with striker Nándor Hidegkuti acting in the role as a deep-lying centre forward.[52][53] In 1953, English football was astounded by the Hungarian team which beat England 6–3 at Wembley Stadium. The Revie Plan was a variation on the tactics used by the Hungarians, involving Don Revie playing as a deep-lying centre-forward. Revie started attacks by coming into the centre of the field to receive the ball, drawing the opposing centre-half out of position. The role can also be compared to the false role in which Hidegkuti operated. The system was first implemented by the Manchester City reserve team, who using the system went unbeaten for the last 26 games of the 1953–54 season. Before the start of the 1954–55 season, Manchester City manager Les McDowall called his team into pre-season training two weeks early to try the new tactic. Manchester City lost their first game using the system 5–0, but as the players became more used to the system it started to become more successful. Using the system Manchester City reached the 1955 FA Cup Final, but lost to Newcastle United 3–1. The following year City again reached the final where they played Birmingham City, this time winning 3–1.[54][55][56]

Throughout his career, Johan Cruyff was often deployed in a free role as a centre-forward with Ajax, Barcelona, and the Netherlands in the 1970s in Rinus Michels's fluid 1–3–3–3 formation, which was a key and trademark feature of the manager's total football system; although Cruyff was a prolific goalscorer in this position, he also frequently dropped deep to confuse his markers and orchestrate attacks, or moved out onto the wing in order to create space for other teammates' runs, which has led certain pundits to compare this role retroactively as a precursor to the modern false 9 role.[52][53][57]

Michael Laudrup was occasionally used as a lone centre-forward in Johan Cruyff's Barcelona Dream Team, a role which was similar to that of the modern false 9 role.[58]

Roma under manager Luciano Spalletti used Francesco Totti, nominally an attacking midfielder or trequartista, up-front in an innovative "4–6–0" formation in the mid-2000s;[59] this was met with a run of 11 consecutive victories.[60]

At Euro 2012, Spain manager Vicente del Bosque, although sometimes deploying Fernando Torres as a traditional striker, often used Cesc Fàbregas as a false 9 in several matches, including the final. By the end of 2012, the false 9 had gone "mainstream" with many clubs employing a version of the system. Barcelona's Lionel Messi has been an epitome of the false 9 position to much success in recent years, first under coach Pep Guardiola and later under his successor Tito Vilanova.[61] Brazilian forward Roberto Firmino was later also successfully used in the false 9 position under manager Jürgen Klopp at Liverpool.[62]

One approach to stop false 9s has been to create congestion in the midfield by bringing several players back into a more defensive role in an attempt to deny them space needed to create plays, notably in José Mourinho's "parking the bus" strategy.[49]

In Italian football jargon, this role is historically known as the centravanti di manovra (which literally translates to "manoeuvring centre-forward"), due to the player's tendency to move freely and participate the build-up of attacking plays.[63][64]

Target forward

[edit]
Didier Drogba (blue, no. 11), who often played as a target forward throughout his career, was known for his ability to hold up the ball, as demonstrated during the 2012 UEFA Champions League final against Bayern Munich.

The term "target forward" or "target man" or "target striker" is often used to describe a particular type of striker or centre-forward whose main role is to win high balls in the air, hold up the ball, and create chances for other members of the team in addition to scoring goals themselves.[6] These players are usually tall and physically strong, adept at heading the ball, and capable of playing with their back to goal in the final third of the pitch. Some of the most high-profile examples of this type of players in modern football include Olivier Giroud and Fernando Llorente, both World Cup winners, with the former having played the entire tournament as a starting line-up forward tasked primarily with pressing, counter-pressing, winning high or loose balls, and providing key passes to quicker and more agile teammates, namely Antoine Griezmann or Kylian Mbappé. Another example of a striker who played in this position is Didier Drogba.[65][66][67] However, not any tall or physically strong player feels comfortable in the role of a "target man", despite having all the necessary features. Such forwards as Zlatan Ibrahimović, Romelu Lukaku, and Erling Haaland have all rejected the term when applied to specifically them, with Ibrahimović preferring to be described as an attacking all-rounder, while Lukaku and Haaland have said to favour poaching goals rather than physical play.[68]

As stated above, the target forward is a player who does not run or look to make runs as compared to other forwards. Typically they are strong, tall, and physical players. Usually, the build-up play of a target forward will often consist of one of the following options: firstly, the goalkeeper will either launch a long kick or distribute the ball to a central defender or full-back. From there, the defender will play a long ball to the striker, either in the air or ground. The target forward usually has perfected their ability to provide first touches of the ball on all areas of the body. They will control the ball and provide holdup, which allows their teammates to transition forward. From here, they may create more opportunities such as passing the ball backwards and creating space by moving around defenders, making combination plays with a "false 9", midfielders, or wingers, or turning and facing the goal and attempting to score by dribbling or shooting.[69] Because of their strength and physicality, target forwards may be defended against by man-to-man marking. Sometimes the central defender of the opposing team will be of similar strength and height, which makes the matchup more evenly based. Due to this man-to-man marking, target forwards are often fouled and receive many calls from the referee.

Striker combinations

[edit]
Paris Saint-Germain's MNM strike team of Kylian Mbappé (no. 7), Lionel Messi (no. 30) and Neymar (no. 10)
The Edin Džeko (blue, no. 10) and Sergio Agüero (no. 16) duo for Manchester City (2011–2015) is a recent example of a striker partnership made up of a taller and more physically imposing player combined with a shorter and technically gifted partner.[70]

Strike teams consist of two or more strikers who work together. The history of football has been filled with many effective combinations. Three-man teams often operate in "triangles", giving a wealth of attacking options. Four-man packages expand options even more. Strikers must also be flexible, and be able to switch roles at a moment's notice, between the first (advanced penetrator position), second (deep-lying manoeuvre) and third (support and expansion, e.g. wings) attacker roles.

Another example was the Total Football played by the Dutch team in the 70s, where the ability of their players, and in particular Johan Cruyff, to swap positions allowed a flexible attacking approach which opposition teams found difficult to effectively mark.[71]

In a two-player front line, it is common for two forwards who complement one another to be paired together; for example, former Italy manager Cesare Maldini often used a large, physical, and prolific player as a traditional centre-forward – such as Christian Vieri – alongside a smaller, faster, creative and more technical player as a second striker – such as Roberto Baggio or Alessandro Del Piero.[21]

Alex Morgan (no. 13) and Abby Wambach (no. 14); Morgan and Wambach combined for 55 goals in 2012 – matching a 21-year-old record set in 1991 by Michelle Akers (39 goals) and Carin Jennings (16 goals) as the most goals scored by any duo in U.S. women's team history.

Another similar example of an effective partnership at international level was that of Alex Morgan and Abby Wambach with the United States national team, who scored a combined 55 goals in 2012, matching a 21-year-old record set in 1991 by Michelle Akers (39 goals) and Carin Jennings (16 goals) as the most goals scored by any duo in U.S. WNT history.[72][73]

Defensive capabilities

[edit]

Although the striker is mainly an offensive position in many cases, they still play critical roles for defense that are often overlooked. Strikers can be involved in tactics such as high-pressing, cutting out passing lanes, defending set pieces, and tracking back (mostly for wingers). For high-pressure, this tactic is employed when the opposing team without the ball will defend the team all the way to their back line of defenders so that they have little area to pass or perform play buildup. Strikers will usually be at the forefront of this high-pressing movement and will attempt to direct ball movement. As part of this high-pressing technique, they can also cut out passing lanes. This means that they will position their bodies in-between an outside defender and central defender or midfielders and center defenders so that the opposing player is not able to pass the ball or make a play. By performing this method, they can effectively force the opposing team to one area of the pitch and create better opportunities for the opposing team to turn the ball over. They are heavily used in the "delay, coverage, balance, and concentration principles of football" through a variety of methods. According to the delay principle of defense in football is the idea that players should disturb the ball holder and block passing lanes, which is done in high-pressing and closing down. Closing down is the ability of a player to very quickly start defending the opposing player with the ball. This usually falls under the concentration principle of football, so strikers must be able to start defending the opposing team very high up in the opposing half.[74] Although many believe strikers are not very involved in defensive strategies, they greatly help with "gathering defense to protect vital zones from progression of offensive actions, direct play to less vital zones, and allow for a regain of ball possession."[75]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Forward (association football)

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
In , a forward (also known as an attacker or striker) is an outfield player who operates in advanced positions closest to the opponent's goal, with the primary role of scoring goals and creating scoring opportunities for the team. These players form the front line of the attack, typically numbering one to three per team depending on the formation, and focus on converting chances through finishing, while also linking play with midfielders and exploiting defensive gaps. Forwards encompass several subtypes, each with distinct responsibilities. The centre forward, often the focal point of the attack, is tasked with leading the line, holding up possession under pressure, timing runs to beat offside traps, and delivering clinical finishes inside the penalty area. Wingers, positioned on the left and right flanks, provide width to stretch the opposition defense, deliver crosses into the box, dribble past full-backs, and cut inside to shoot or assist, contributing both goals and creativity from wide areas. A second striker or supporting forward plays slightly deeper, interchanging positions to support the main striker, combine through short passes, and arrive in goal-scoring zones during transitions. Beyond scoring, modern forwards contribute to the team's overall tactics, including high pressing out of possession to disrupt the opposition's build-up and regain the ball in advanced areas, as well as intelligent movement to create space for teammates. Variations like the target forward (strong in aerial duels) or false nine (dropping deep to overload midfield) adapt to tactical needs, emphasizing versatility, speed, and technical skill in contemporary play.

Overview

Definition and Role

In , a forward, also known as an attacker, is an outfield player positioned closest to the opponent's , with the primary objective of scoring and generating scoring opportunities for the team. Forwards serve as the spearhead of the attack, focusing on finishing plays through shots on target, while also contributing to build-up by making runs into the , pressing opposing defenders to disrupt their organization, and linking play with midfielders to maintain possession in advanced areas. Teams typically deploy one to three forwards depending on the tactical setup, such as a lone striker in a 4-2-3-1 formation or a trio in a 4-3-3, where the forwards form the front line supported by midfield runners. Essential attributes for effective forwards include speed and agility for exploiting spaces, clinical finishing under pressure, intelligent positioning to anticipate plays, aerial ability for headers, and rapid decision-making to capitalize on fleeting chances. The forward position is traditionally associated with squad numbers 9 for the central striker, emphasizing goal-scoring prowess, and 10 for a more creative, playmaking forward who orchestrates attacks from a slightly deeper role. In the modern game, forward roles have evolved from rigid, isolated positions to more fluid and versatile ones, influenced by the principles of —which promoted positional interchange—and high-pressing systems popularized post-2010 by coaches like and , requiring forwards to actively participate in regaining possession high up the pitch while rotating dynamically to confuse defenses.

Historical Development

The forward position in originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, emerging prominently within the 2-3-5 formation, which emphasized attacking play with five dedicated forwards: two outside forwards on the wings, two inside forwards providing support, and a central centre-forward tasked with finishing opportunities. This setup, known retrospectively as the "," became the standard by the , reflecting the era's focus on offensive dominance and minimal defensive structure, where forwards were expected to overwhelm opponents through sheer numbers and direct play. The formation's origins trace back to the sport's formative years in Britain, influenced by the offside rule's in 1866, which allowed more fluid attacking positions without requiring multiple opponents between the ball and goal. By the mid-20th century, tactical shifts prompted by changes to the offside law in 1925 led to the development of the WM formation (3-2-2-3), pioneered by at , which balanced defense and attack by withdrawing one forward to mark the opposing center-half, thus introducing more defined roles for inside and outside forwards. This era also saw the rise of the 4-2-4 formation, popularized by Brazil's 1958 victory, where four forwards operated behind two central midfielders, emphasizing speed and width to counter defensive setups. The Hungarian Golden Team of the 1950s further influenced forward evolution through fluid, interchangeable roles in a deep-lying center-forward system, as exemplified by Nándor Hidegkuti dropping into midfield to create space, challenging rigid positional play and inspiring versatile attacking dynamics. From the 1960s to the 1980s, innovations like , developed by at Ajax and the with as a key exponent, transformed forwards into positionally fluid players capable of defending and attacking interchangeably, prioritizing technical proficiency and spatial awareness over fixed roles. In contrast, Italy's system, refined in the 1960s by coaches like and at , emphasized defensive solidity with a sweeper behind the backline, allowing forwards to focus on counter-attacks and exploit transitions, often featuring a lone target man for aerial duels and hold-up play in an era of increasing physicality. This period highlighted a tactical dichotomy: versatile, possession-based forwards in progressive systems versus robust, opportunistic ones in pragmatic setups. The 1990s and 2010s witnessed the commercialization of the and driving a shift toward speed, , and goal-scoring efficiency among forwards, with players like evolving from a skillful winger in his early Manchester United career (2003–2009) to a prolific poacher, reflecting broader trends in high-pressing and transitional play. Post-2020, data analytics have reshaped forward positioning by optimizing metrics like (xG) and pressing intensity, enabling hybrid roles that blend finishing with midfield involvement, particularly in formations like 3-4-3 where wingers and strikers interchange to exploit spaces. The introduction of VAR since 2018 has influenced offside decisions. COVID-19-era adaptations in 2020, including condensed schedules and empty stadiums, led to tactical adjustments such as increased substitutions and reduced pressing intensity to manage fixture congestion. In the 2020s, as of 2025, forwards have increasingly adopted hybrid roles, dropping deep to link play while maintaining goal threats, reflecting greater tactical fluidity in formations like 4-2-3-1 and 3-4-3 driven by analytics and versatility demands.

Central Forwards

Centre-Forward

The centre-forward, often referred to as the number 9, serves as the primary goal-scoring threat in the central attacking area, focusing on staying positioned in and around the penalty box to convert opportunities created by teammates. Core duties include poaching loose balls, finishing crosses from wide areas, and acting as the focal point for attacks by drawing defenders and creating space for others. This role emphasizes clinical finishing under pressure, with successful centre-forwards demonstrating an uncanny ability to anticipate rebounds and exploit gaps in the defense. Physically, centre-forwards typically possess and strength to dominate aerial duels and hold off defenders during physical challenges, with an stature around 6 feet or more enabling effective heading from set pieces and crosses. Technical demands center on precise ball control, ambidextrous , and quick reflexes for one-touch finishes, often requiring high-intensity efforts such as sprinting (covering about 5.5% of purposeful movement time) and rapid directional changes to evade markers. The classic number 9 jersey symbolizes this archetype, worn by players who combine power with finesse to endure the physical toll of repeated duels and recovery sprints in professional matches. Tactically, the centre-forward operates along a central axis from midfield to , maintaining a high line to stay on the shoulder of the last defender and exploit offside traps with timed runs into space behind the backline. This positioning allows them to receive direct passes or through-balls while remaining central to stretch the opposition's defense vertically, often pinning centre-backs to prevent them from advancing. In formations like the 4-3-3, they maximize their presence in the box for cut-backs and low crosses, blending hold-up play with explosive forward bursts. Historical exemplars include , who in the with Bayern epitomized the prolific poacher through his mastery of penalty-area positioning and clinical finishing, scoring 365 goals in 427 appearances by capitalizing on limited spaces with sharp instincts. In the modern era, has revived the role's potency at Manchester City since 2022, leveraging his 6ft 4in frame, blistering pace, and lethal finishing in a 4-3-3 setup to score prolifically while staying high and exploiting channels. The position has evolved from the static, target-oriented roles prevalent in post-World War II formations like the WM system, where centre-forwards acted primarily as finishers in structured attacks, to more dynamic interpretations in contemporary high-pressing systems. In teams employing intense pressing, such as those influenced by Jürgen Klopp's in the 2010s and 2020s, centre-forwards now incorporate mobility to drop short for link-up play before surging forward, combining traditional goal-poaching with contributions to regaining possession high up the pitch. This shift reflects broader tactical trends toward fluid, space-oriented play while retaining the core emphasis on central penetration.

Striker

The striker, often regarded as the quintessential goal-scorer in , is characterized as a pure finisher who excels in off-ball runs to exploit spaces behind defenses, delivers one-touch finishes with precision, and demonstrates expertise in penalty-taking, while contributing minimally to the build-up play. This role emphasizes individualistic scoring instincts over team-oriented involvement, distinguishing it from more versatile centre-forwards by prioritizing end-product conversion in high-pressure situations. Key skills for the striker include sharp anticipation to read defensive lines, proficiency in volleying to capitalize on crosses or rebounds, and composure under duress to maintain accuracy in tight angles. These attributes make strikers particularly effective in counter-attacking systems, where rapid transitions allow them to outpace opponents and finish clinically with minimal touches. Strikers typically occupy the central position in formations such as the 4-4-2, where they partner with another forward, or as the lone spearhead in the 4-2-3-1, supported by attacking midfielders. They are traditionally assigned jersey numbers 9 or 11, symbolizing their frontline role. Iconic examples include during his tenure in the 2000s, renowned for his elegant pace and clinical finishing that yielded 228 goals in 377 appearances, blending off-ball intelligence with graceful one-touch volleys. More recently, post-2020, at PSG and Real Madrid has exemplified the role through explosive speed and prolific output, achieving over 50 goals in the 2022-23 season across all competitions while mastering penalty conversions. Modern training for strikers focuses on drills simulating off-ball movement patterns to enhance timing and positioning, complemented by AI-analyzed shot selection using expected goals (xG) models to optimize decision-making in finishing scenarios since the early 2020s.

Second Striker

The second striker, often referred to as a "9.5" or shadow striker, operates in a supportive central role that bridges the midfield and the main striker, dropping deeper to receive passes from midfielders and link play forward. This position emphasizes creative involvement, where the player exploits half-spaces between the opposition's defensive lines to create scoring chances for the primary forward, rather than focusing solely on finishing. Key skills for a second striker include exceptional vision to identify passing lanes, precise short and long-range passing to set up teammates, to evade markers in tight areas, and clinical to capitalize on occasional opportunities inside the box. These attributes enable the player to balance offensive creativity with involvement in transitions, contributing to both build-up phases and quick counters by maintaining positional fluidity. Tactically, the second striker thrives in formations like the 4-4-2 diamond, where they occupy the advanced midfield role to connect the lines, or the 4-2-3-1, positioning just behind the lone striker to provide support and overload central areas. This role is traditionally associated with wearing jersey number 10, symbolizing the playmaking responsibilities akin to an attacking midfielder. Notable examples include , who exemplified artistry as 's second striker in the 1990s and 2000s, using his technical finesse to orchestrate attacks alongside . In modern contexts, has embodied the role at since joining in 2023, operating in fluid systems that allow him to drop deep and facilitate play in Mikel Arteta's possession-based setup. The role gained prominence in 1980s Italian calcio through systems like Zona Mista and Arrigo Sacchi's innovative 4-4-2 at , which integrated creative forwards like to disrupt defenses with dynamic movement. In the 2020s Bundesliga, it has adapted to high-pressing environments, with players linking midfield presses to rapid transitions in dual-striker setups employed by teams reviving the formation for counter-pressing efficiency.

Flank Forwards

Inside Forward

The inside forward, historically a pivotal role in early 20th-century football tactics, operated primarily in the 2-3-5 pyramid formation and its evolution, the WM system (3-2-2-3), prevalent from the 1920s to the 1950s. In these setups, inside forwards positioned themselves in the inner channels between the central striker and the outside forwards, launching diagonal runs into the to receive passes from wing halves and finish with volleys or close-range shots, thereby exploiting gaps in opposing defenses. This role emphasized fluid attacking movements, with the two inside forwards—typically one on the left and one on the right—forming the "W" shape in attack alongside the center forward, allowing for quick transitions and overloads in central areas. Key attributes for inside forwards included exceptional to navigate tight spaces, precise accuracy for curled or placed finishes, and vision to link with midfield runners, enabling them to both score and create from half-spaces. Left inside forwards often used their right foot for inward cuts, while right inside forwards favored their left, maximizing threat on their stronger side during diagonal incursions. A notable historical example is Alex James, who during his time at in the 1930s exemplified the role's demands through his playmaking vision and dribbling prowess in WM-based systems, contributing to 's league titles in 1931, 1933, and 1934 with precise passes and finishes from inner channels. In the modern era, of Manchester City has embodied an evolved inside forward since 2020, blending inside cuts from the right flank with central interplay to overload half-spaces and deliver curled shots, as seen in his goal-scoring contributions in Champions League matches. The role declined in the mid-20th century with the widespread adoption of the 4-4-2 formation in the 1960s and 1970s, which prioritized two central strikers and wide midfielders focused on width and crossing rather than inward diagonal threats, reducing opportunities for specialized inside channels. It experienced a revival in the and through Pep Guardiola's positional play at Manchester City, where inverted wingers function as contemporary inside forwards, cutting inside on their stronger foot to create numerical superiorities and curling shots, integrating seamlessly with midfield rotations in a 4-3-3 structure.

Outside Forward

The outside forward, also known as the outside right or outside left, is a traditional attacking position stationed on the flanks in early football formations such as the 2-3-5 , which dominated play until the mid-20th century. This role primarily involves stretching the pitch horizontally to create space for central attackers, delivering precise crosses into the , and beating opposing full-backs through direct runs along the touchline. Rooted in pre-1960s tactics, the position emphasized width to exploit the open spaces typical of that era's less compact defenses, allowing the outside forward to support the centre-forward by providing service rather than finishing opportunities. Key skills for an outside forward include exceptional pace to outrun defenders, accurate crossing ability to maximize threats, and proficiency in one-on-one duels, both offensively and defensively, as they often track back to aid the full-back. Operating primarily on the touchline, the player must balance attacking flair with positional discipline to maintain the team's shape. Unlike the inside forward, which prioritizes diagonal penetration into central areas, the outside forward focuses on width and service from the flanks. Traditionally assigned jersey numbers 7 (outside right) or 11 (outside left) in the classic numbering system derived from the 2-3-5 formation, this role has influenced modern wide positions. In contemporary tactics, such as the 4-3-3 or 3-5-2 formations, the outside forward adapts to provide width while integrating with overlapping full-backs, though the pure role has diminished due to evolving strategies. A seminal example is , the Brazilian right winger who played a key role in Brazil's 1958 World Cup victory and propelled them to the 1962 title by scoring four goals and earning the tournament's best player honors, despite physical challenges. In modern contexts, exemplifies the position's evolution at Real Madrid since 2020, using his explosive pace and dribbling to beat defenders on the left flank, deliver assists, and contribute to counter-attacks in a 4-3-3 setup under . The modern shift away from the pure outside forward stems from increasingly compact defenses that limit flank space, leading to hybrid wide roles that incorporate inward movements and pressing duties. This evolution blends the historical emphasis on crossing with versatile attacking patterns, making the position a precursor to the contemporary winger, which adds speed and inverted variations but retains core flank responsibilities.

Winger

A winger, also known as a wide forward, is an attacking player positioned on the flanks of the forward line in , responsible for providing width to the team's attack and exploiting spaces along the touchlines. In modern tactics, wingers emphasize speed and directness to stretch defenses, often operating as the primary creators from wide areas while contributing to goal threats. The key responsibilities of a winger include hugging the touchline to maintain width, beating full-backs in one-on-one duels through , and delivering crosses into the or cutting inside to shoot, thereby creating overloads in the attacking third. They also support chance creation by picking out key passes and shots after breaking down defensive lines, often requiring 5 or more risky actions per in the final third to disrupt opponents. This role demands versatility, as wingers must adapt to varying movements early in games to remain unpredictable. Essential attributes for wingers include explosive acceleration for counter-attacks, precise ball control and to evade defenders, and high to cover the flanks for the full 90 minutes. Inverted wingers, typically right-footed players on the left flank or vice versa, leverage their stronger foot to cut inside for shots or passes, exploiting half-spaces with and spatial . under pressure is crucial, balancing crosses, passes, or shots, while modern demands include pressing to regain possession in advanced areas. Wingers are integral to formations like the 4-3-3, where they provide width alongside a central striker and midfield trio, or the 4-2-3-1, positioning them behind the forward to facilitate transitions and overloads. In pressing systems, they track back to support full-backs, countering overlapping threats from the opposition. Notable examples include , who during the 1990s and 2000s at Manchester United exemplified winger dynamism with 109 goals and 162 assists across 632 appearances, often delivering from the left flank. In the post-2020 era, at has continued as a prolific inverted right winger, achieving 20+ goals and assists annually; as of November 2025, he has 190 goals in 312 games, surpassing Giggs' tally with a superior goals-per-game . Recent trends highlight the rise of both-footed wingers, who command a 14-15% premium over one-footed peers due to their versatility in attacking angles, as evidenced by economic analysis of professional players. Since 2020, AI-tracked heatmaps have become standard for optimizing winger positioning, visualizing high-activity zones in the attacking half to assess contributions, such as Salah's concentration near the opponent's goal or Mbappé's flank dominance; by 2025, advanced analytics further integrate real-time data for tactical adjustments in matches.

Specialized Forwards

False 9

The false 9 is a tactical in where a forward, nominally positioned as the central striker, drops deep into midfield areas to masquerade as a , thereby pulling opposing center-backs out of their defensive structure and creating space for onrushing teammates to exploit. This deception disrupts man-marking systems by denying defenders a fixed target, allowing the false 9 to receive the ball between the lines and initiate attacks with progressive passes or dribbles. The demands exceptional technical skill, including precise passing, spatial awareness, and vision to link midfield and attack without a traditional striker partner, often in fluid formations like 4-3-3. Historically, the false 9 emerged in the 1950s with Hungary's "Golden Team" under manager Gusztáv Sebes, who deployed Nándor Hidegkuti in the role to counter the rigid W-M formation prevalent at the time. Hidegkuti, a versatile forward with midfield qualities, dropped deep during the 1953 Wembley match against England, scoring a hat-trick in a 6-3 victory by dragging the center-half forward and opening channels for teammates like Ferenc Puskás. This innovative use, refined from earlier ideas by coach Márton Bukovi, showcased the role's potential to dismantle defensive lines through mobility rather than physical presence. In modern football, the false 9 gained prominence under at , where exemplified the role from 2009 onward, dropping into midfield to orchestrate play and enable runs from wingers like and . Messi's adaptation, first trialed against Real Madrid in 2009, revolutionized 's possession-based style and influenced Spain's Euro 2012 triumph, with filling the position to create overloads in midfield. embodied the role at under , integrating it into gegenpressing tactics by pressing high and linking with forwards like and in the 2010s and early 2020s. Similarly, featured as a false 9 in Manchester City's fluid 2023 setups, providing versatility in attacking transitions alongside . In the 2024-2025 season, has been deployed in the false 9 role at under , contributing to creative play and space creation in midfield. The advantages of the false 9 lie in its ability to exploit man-oriented defenses, generating numerical superiorities in central areas and enhancing build-up play through unpredictability. However, its effectiveness depends on elite midfield support to cover the space left behind, as the role can expose vulnerabilities if the player lacks the intelligence to balance creation and pressing duties.

Target Forward

The target forward, also known as the target man, is a central striker whose primary role revolves around physical dominance in the attacking third, serving as the focal point for the team's forward play. This position emphasizes back-to-goal hold-up play, where the player receives long balls or crosses, shields the ball from defenders, and lays it off to supporting midfielders or wingers advancing into space. Key duties include executing flick-ons to redirect passes for teammates running in behind the defense and excelling in aerial duels to win headers, both offensively and defensively, thereby disrupting the opposition's backline and creating scoring opportunities. As an outlet for direct play, the target forward absorbs pressure from multiple defenders, allowing the team to transition quickly from defense to attack without losing possession in advanced areas. Physically, target forwards are typically tall—often exceeding 6 feet (1.83 meters) in height—with exceptional strength and balance to withstand challenges while controlling the ball under pressure. This build enables them to dominate physical battles and aerial contests, though the role places less emphasis on raw pace compared to more mobile strikers, prioritizing instead endurance and body positioning for sustained hold-up work. Tactically, they fit seamlessly into formations like the 4-4-2, where they pair with a second striker or poacher to exploit direct systems reliant on long balls from the back; traditionally, they wear the iconic number 9 jersey, symbolizing their central, goal-threatening presence. Notable examples include during his time at Manchester United in the 2000s, who combined poaching instincts with hold-up ability and aerial prowess to link play effectively in Alex Ferguson's direct attacking setup. In the post-2020 era, at exemplifies a modern evolution, blending classic target traits like his 6-foot-4 frame (1.92 meters) for winning headers with enhanced mobility to exploit transitions. While less prevalent in possession-dominant football, the target forward remains vital in counter-attacking and transitional styles, as seen in various 2020s teams employing direct routes to bypass high presses; for instance, in the 2024-2025 season, has served as a target forward on loan at Galatasaray, utilizing his aerial strength in quick counters.

Tactical Integration

Combinations and Partnerships

In , effective attacking play often relies on the synergy between forwards, where pairings and groupings exploit complementary skills to dismantle defenses. A prominent example is the striker-second striker partnership, as exemplified by and at Tottenham Hotspur during the 2010s and 2020s. Their collaboration produced 47 direct goal combinations in the , with Son providing 23 assists for Kane and Kane reciprocating with 24, establishing them as one of the division's most prolific duos and contributing to Tottenham's consistent top-four finishes. Similarly, front threes have become a hallmark of modern attacking setups, such as the trio of , , and at Saint-Germain from 2021 to 2023. This group amassed over 100 combined goals and assists across competitions, with standout seasons like 2021-22 where they ranked among Europe's highest-scoring forward lines, leveraging their individual flair to dominate Ligue 1. Trios and larger groupings further enhance dynamics through tactical maneuvers like overloads and rotations, particularly in the 4-3-3 formation. In this system, forwards create numerical advantages centrally by rotating positions—such as wingers drifting inside while strikers drop deep—to open spaces and confuse markers, allowing for quick transitions and space creation. Historically, Manchester United's "Holy Trinity" of , , and in the 1960s embodied this approach; debuting together in a 4-1 victory over West Brom in 1964, all three scored, and their interplay propelled United to the 1968 European Cup, scoring 665 goals collectively for Manchester United. In women's football, partnerships have similarly driven ; and combined for 55 international goals in 2012, powering the to Olympic gold through their aerial and ground interplay. Post-2020, and have formed a dynamic wing duo for , scoring key goals together, such as in 's 2-1 WSL win over in 2023, where Hemp's creativity complemented Kelly's finishing to maintain England's attacking depth. The tactical benefits of such combinations include interchangeability, which disrupts defensive predictability by forcing opponents to adjust to fluid roles rather than static positions. Rotations in overload scenarios, as seen in 4-3-3 setups, enable forwards to exploit half-spaces and create assist chains, enhancing overall attacking efficiency. However, these partnerships face challenges, including balancing egos and managing fatigue in high-intensity leagues. At PSG, the Mbappé-Messi-Neymar trio suffered from ego clashes, with reports of jealousy—such as Mbappé's reported resentment toward Messi's arrival—dividing the squad and undermining collective pressing, as superstars prioritized individual play over team defense. Fatigue compounds this in congested schedules, where forwards' high sprint volumes lead to performance drops in later matches, as evidenced by metabolic studies showing up to 20% decline in high-intensity efforts toward game ends.

Defensive Responsibilities

In modern , forwards play a crucial role in defensive phases by initiating high pressing to regain possession high up the pitch, tracking opposition runners to prevent breakthroughs, and cutting passing lanes to disrupt build-up play. This involvement is particularly integral to gegenpressing tactics, where forwards lead the immediate counter-pressure upon losing the ball, forcing errors from opponents attempting to play out from the back. Jurgen Klopp, who popularized gegenpressing during his tenures at and , emphasized the forwards' responsibility to close down defenders rapidly, enabling quick transitions into attack. Effective fulfillment of these duties requires specific attributes, including high stamina to sustain intense efforts throughout the , basic tackling proficiency to win challenges, and positional discipline to maintain structure during transitions. Forwards typically cover 10-11 km per , with much of this distance involving high-intensity actions like sprints for pressing, underscoring the demands. The tactical evolution of forwards' defensive responsibilities has shifted dramatically since the early , moving from minimal involvement—where strikers in formations like 4-4-2 focused primarily on scoring within the —to essential contributions in systems such as the 4-2-3-1, where they trigger coordinated presses from . Post-2020, advancements in GPS tracking have enabled teams to monitor and optimize pressing triggers, allowing forwards to position more precisely for maximum disruption. Notable examples include during his Barcelona stint in the 2010s, where his exceptional work rate supported the team's pressing structure despite not leading in raw defensive metrics. In contemporary play, has exemplified full-phase pressing at since 2022, frequently initiating chases on lost balls and tracking back to recover possession, aligning with the club's counter-pressing demands. These defensive efforts significantly impact , with high pressing in top teams disrupting opponent build-up and reducing their possession in advanced areas by limiting progressive passes and forcing turnovers. However, the physical toll can lead to , potentially diminishing forwards' attacking output in later match stages.

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