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 and Thierry Henry. 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 Zlatan Ibrahimović, and Edin Džeko, have qualities which are suited to both positions. The number most associated with the position, he was an out and out striker. Striker Gabriel Batistuta holding his old number 9 Fiorentina jersey. 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). 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. 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. 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. 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 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. 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. 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.

The traditional role of a centre-forward is to score the majority of goals on behalf of the team. A multi-functional forward, he has influenced a generation of strikers who followed. Centre-forward īrazilian striker Ronaldo (middle, in white) taking a shot at goal. Less conventional formations may include more than three forwards, or sometimes none. For example, the common 4–2–3–1 includes one forward.

Modern team formations normally include one to three forwards. Their advanced position and limited defensive responsibilities mean forwards normally score more goals on behalf of their team than other players.Īttacking positions generally favour irrational players who ask questions to the defensive side of the opponent in order to create scoring chances, where they benefit from a lack of predictability in attacking play. As with any attacking player, the role of the forward relies heavily on being able to create space for attack. The goalkeeper will try to stop the forward from scoring a goal by preventing the ball from passing the goal line.įorwards (also known as attackers) are outfield positions in an association football team who play the furthest up the pitch and are therefore most responsible for scoring goals as well as assisting them. 16, in white) and is about to take a shot at the goal. Association football position played near the opponent's goal

Position numbers in soccer