In today’s blog we discuss why being open to playing in different positions can help develop your skills and help your team.

Through the years, football develops further and player roles change. An example of this is the modern day defender.

 Decades ago, it was very common for defenders to be expected to boot a football high up the pitch. Nowadays, defenders at the top level have different demands, such as playing out from the back, carrying the ball into midfield, etc.

Some defenders from previous generations may struggle to adapt to the modern game, but this is where playing in different positions can help you become a more well-rounded player.

For example, if you are a midfielder and you want to be more confident on the ball, be braver to receive it, and start playing forward, trying out defending could be useful.

At Regents Park we encourage our defenders to receive the ball from our goalkeeper then play passes into midfield to build attacks. 

Playing as a defender gives you an important role of receiving the ball from your keeper, as well as either passing or driving into midfield to build attacks.

Additionally, playing in different positions is great for your team. You could fill in for an injured player, and it allows your coach to use you for different tactical scenarios.

This week, have a discussion with your coach to see how you could experiment playing in different positions to help your overall game.

See you tomorrow for training!