Furthermore, there are additional 4-5-1 systems, like for example the 4-1-4-1. The 4-2-3-1 explains the tactical concept far more clearly. The 'trisection' of the system may sound easier, but often leads to misunderstandings. The GK is often referred to as a Keeper or Goalie, the only player who can handle the ball with his hands and arms to make sure a goal does not enter. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL Not to be shared without U.S. The 4-2-3-1 is thus a 4-5-1 and this points to a strongly positioned midfield. The Goalkeeper is the last line of defense to stop an offensive player from scoring a goal. Defensive Soccer Positions Goalkeeper (GK) READ: How Many Soccer Teams Are In London? 1. It is meant to be helpful for the referee and other officials, but it also helps fans understand which player plays which position. There are eleven positions to be filled in a soccer team so a team should run from 1 to 11 from back to up-front. These numbers, which range from 1 to 11, are assigned based on the players’ specific positions and associated roles within the squad. The conventional numbering system used to indicate players’ positions on the field is deeply ingrained in the world of soccer. Having said that, let’s look at what the defensive, midfield, and offensive soccer positions mean. The NFL jersey numbering system was once fairly strict. Soccer Position Numbers Explained Credit: soccerhowto. The goalkeeper wears the number 1 jersey and is the only player on the field allowed to use their hands within the penalty area. They are responsible for guarding the goal and preventing the opposing team from scoring. For the feeders (younger players), knowing what soccer positions represent is ideal as knowing the role you’re assigned to play or the role that suits you.Īs you develop your skill in your soccer career, your soccer position will shift a bit till you have a standardized number, which is not always certain. Goalkeeping is one of the most critical positions on the field. Numbers very soon became a way to also indicate position, with starting players being assigned numbers 111, although in the modern game they are often influenced by the players' favourite numbers and other less technical reasons, as well. Every position a footballer is representing has a unique job to keep the team playing squarely. Squad numbers are used in association football to identify and distinguish players that are on the field.

Soccer player position numbering system