← Back to the pitch Defensive Midfielder Screens the back four, breaks up opposition attacks before they start, and recycles possession simply so more creative teammates further forward can do their work.
Train for this role → In possession Recycles possession simply and safely, often splitting the center-backs or dropping short to keep the ball moving under pressure.
Out of possession Screens the back four by cutting off passing lanes into the opposition's most dangerous attacker and winning the ball back early.
How to play it › Stay goal-side of the opponent you're screening rather than chasing the ball› Break up attacks before they reach the back four, not after› Keep passes simple under pressure. The priority is retaining the ball, not creating› Scan constantly to spot the next passing lane the opposition wants to useCommon mistakes − Getting drawn out of position chasing the ball across the pitch− Attempting an ambitious pass in a dangerous area instead of the safe option− Failing to track a late runner arriving from midfieldComing soon: video drill demos for this role.