Play / Positions / Full-back and wing-back
Six weeks as a full-back and wing-back
Full-backs and wing-backs defend the wing and then add width in attack. These weeks build 1v1 defending, then overlaps, then crossing.
Each week runs from on your own to with others to a real match moment. Move on when you can do the check at the end of the week, not before. Two weeks on one is fine.
Week one
Defend the wing
Stand slightly inside, show them down the line, and stop the cross.
- On your ownJockeyingTen minutes, most days.
- With a friend1v1 to the line12 minutes. You and a friend.
- In a matchMake a chance from the wingPlay it through as your position.
- The idea behind itShow them down the lineWhat the whole team is doing.
You have got it when In 1v1s, attackers end up near the corner flag, not cutting inside.
Week two
Tuck in
When the ball is on the far side, move in towards your centre-backs.
- With the team2v2: pressure and cover15 minutes. Groups of 4.
- In a matchA winger runs at youPlay it through as your position.
- The idea behind itMove as a blockWhat the whole team is doing.
You have got it when You check where the ball is before you choose your starting spot.
Week three
Be the outlet
Give a wide option when the keeper or centre-back has it.
- On your ownCushioning the ballTen minutes, most days.
- With the teamPlaying out from the goalkeeper15 minutes. 7 to 12, including a goalkeeper.
- In a matchBeat the pressPlay it through as your position.
- The idea behind itPlay out from the backWhat the whole team is doing.
You have got it when You receive on the touchline with your body open to the pitch.
Week four
Overlap and underlap
Run round or inside the winger at the right moment.
- With the team2v1: pass or go?15 minutes. Groups of 3.
- In a matchGo round themPlay it through as your position.
- The idea behind itThe overlapWhat the whole team is doing.
You have got it when You time your run so the winger can pass to you without waiting.
Week five
Cross low
Get to the byline and cross low and hard, or cut it back.
- On your ownStriking with the lacesTen minutes, most days.
- With the teamLow crosses and cut-backs15 minutes. 6 to 12, plus a goalkeeper.
- In a matchGo round themPlay it through as your position.
- The idea behind itThe cut-backWhat the whole team is doing.
You have got it when Most of your crosses beat the first defender.
Week six
Throw-ins
Take quick, legal throws to feet, and defend theirs tight.
- With the teamTriangle passing10 minutes. Groups of 3 or 4.
- In a matchTake a quick throw-inPlay it through as your position.
- The idea behind itThrow-ins that keep the ballWhat the whole team is doing.
You have got it when Feet on the ground, both hands, from behind the head: no foul throws.
After six weeks
Go back to week one and do the checks again. Then try a week from the position next to yours: a centre-back who knows a holding midfielder's job, or a winger who knows a full-back's, is the player coaches want.
Back to the full-back and wing-back guide Next: six weeks as a holding midfielder
Practise in a safe space with an adult nearby, and warm up first. If anything hurts, stop.