The positions of players on a soccer field discussed here are just summarized and not completely and comprehensively discussed.
In order to learn more about each of these and learn what skills you need in order to perform well on them I suggest you to study our comprehensive soccer positions guide which is covering each position in detail.
Positions of Players on a Soccer Field
Sweeper aka Libero (SW)
As a sweeper, one of your main tasks is to clear the ball if your opponents manage to get through your defensive line. A sweeper is rarely used nowadays and you will not see many teams with a SW formation.
Center Back (CB)
If you are playing as CB (even called center halves or central defenders) your main task will be to mark the opposing team forwards (and even their CM (central midfielders).
Full Back (FB-RB-LB)
As a full back you will be responsible to prevent your opponents from getting the ball into your own 18 yard box (penalty area). You will also need to make offensive runs on the flank especially in a formation like 4-4-2.
Wingback (WB-RWB-LWB)
A wingback has same responsibilities as the (FB-RB-LB) however; you will be more involved in offensive attacks.
Defensive midfielder (DM)
Your mission is to operate in front of your defense line and prevent attacking midfielders from reaching your 18 yard box. To complete this job properly you will need to have good strength and stamina.
Central midfielder (CM)
As a (CM) you must be ready to play more then one role on the field, depending on your team’s strength and tactics. You will be the link between your defense and offense. You must also help in defense when your opponents have possession of the ball.
Side midfielder (LM-RM)
As a side midfielder you will be placed either left or right (depending on your kicking foot) of the midfield. One of your main tasks is to provide your forwards with quality crosses.
Attacking midfielder (AM)
Attacking midfielders are also called playmakers and their ball skills (shooting, passing, first touch on the ball) should be of high quality.
Deep lying forward (SS)
As a deep lying forward you will need to pose good scoring abilities and of course great ball skills.
Centre forward (CF)
Your main task as centre forward is to score goals. It doesn’t matter how you do it but without scoring goals your status as centre forward will be low.
Winger (RW-LW)
This position is similar to the side midfielder but have fewer defensive duties. As a winger you will need great dribbling skills to get around your defenders. You will also need to provide your forwards with quality crosses from wide positions.
Summary
Being able to play at different soccer positions is important for your development and should not be underestimated!
