Top Bins Talk

Where Did The Traditional Wingers Go?

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Episode notes

The tactical developments we've seen in football over recent years has been tremendous, but one specific role that seems to be getting left behind is that of the traditional winger. Think Giggs on the left, Beckham on the right, chalk on their boots and width provided. Although the fulfillments for such a role may be more 'complex' in today's game, why don't we see it more often?

Are we not maximising some wide players' qualities as they’ve been shoehorned onto their unnatural side becasue that’s the norm? What alternative solutions have teams made to replace the threat 'traditional wingers' provide? If a player has qualities more suited to playing on his strong side... then why not let him flourish in that role?

We discuss these questions, and more, on this week's episode of The Drawing Board.