9 · Striker9v9 · 3-1-3-1
9 threatens the space behind. Their defenders drop, and space opens for 10.9 runs from the edge of the shaded space in behind the defence, and 10 has the ball in the space that opens behind 9, with a dashed pass option to 9.9910SPACE

9 threatens the space behind. Their defenders drop, and space opens for 10.

! Running behind involves offside at 9v9. Our offside guidance is awaiting review.

9v9 · 3-1-3-1 · Position

Striker

Give us somewhere to play

✓ Coaching reviewed · 19 October 2026

Ask yourself

Both moves make space for teammates.

Your jobs
  • Stretch the defence.
  • Give us a forward pass.
  • Protect the ball when needed.
  • Start our press.
  • Know when to come short and when to run behind.
Run behind

9 threatens the space behind. Their defenders drop, and space opens for 10.

Come short

9 checks towards the ball. A defender follows, and space opens behind.

Redrawn from the source playbook, p. 13. Shirt numbers describe the starting picture; every player should try more than one role.

Rules this position uses
Show them wide, then goProtect the middle, guide them to the touchline, then press together.Far side inWhen we attack down one side, the opposite wide player attacks the goal.