A grassroots football coaching publication

7v7 · Issue 01 · Chapter 3 · Position four of five

Wide midfielders

Wide with it. Closer without.

11 · 7 · Wide midfielders7v7 · 2-3-1
Make the pitch big. Give teammates somewhere to pass.Our wide midfielders 11 and 7 occupy the outside channels, with number 8 central.3211879WIDTHWIDTH

Make the pitch big. Give teammates somewhere to pass.

Get closer to the middle so you're ready to help.Both wide midfielders move inside and deeper towards number 8 when the opposition gain possession.1173211879HELP

Get closer to the middle so you're ready to help.

How We Play illustration based on reviewed guidance. Starting positions are not fixed.
Key
  • Us
  • Ball
  • Key space
  • Them
  • Run
  • Started here

Ask yourself

Where is the ball, and who needs me?
✓ Coaching reviewed · 22 October 2026

Written by Niall Walsh, grassroots football coach and founder of How We Play. Coaching reviewed by David Wilson on 22 October 2026.

Your jobs

  1. When we have the ball, use the space near the touchlines to help the team spread out.
  2. Show a clear angle for a pass and be willing to run with the ball.
  3. When the opposition have the ball, come closer to the middle and help your teammates.

Principles this position uses

  1. Principle 2Big with it, small without itBall ours? Wide. Ball theirs? Closer.
  2. Principle 4Lose it, find homeWho slows them? Where do I help?