A grassroots football coaching publication

9v9 · Issue 03 · Chapter 3 · Position three of six

Wing-backs

Two jobs, one decision

3 · 2 · Wing-backs9v9 · 2-2-3-1
Starting positions for wing-backs in a 2-2-3-1. Positions are starting points, not fixed instructions.Nine-player 2-2-3-1 starting formation, highlighting 3 and 2 as wing-backs, with our team attacking upwards.GK453211689ROLE 3ROLE 2

Starting positions for wing-backs in a 2-2-3-1. Positions are starting points, not fixed instructions.

How We Play illustration based on reviewed guidance. Starting positions are not fixed.
Key
  • Us
  • Key space

Ask yourself

If I leave this space, who has it?
✓ Coaching reviewed · 20 October 2026

Written by Niall Walsh, grassroots football coach and founder of How We Play. Coaching reviewed by David Wilson on 20 October 2026.

Your jobs

  1. Offer a wide option when the team has appropriate cover.
  2. Recognise who can protect the area left behind when you advance.
  3. When possession changes, decide whether to delay the ball or recover.

Principles this position uses

  1. Principle 2Width with coverIf I go, who covers?
  2. Principle 4Lose it? Find homePress, protect or recover: which is my job?