Full-back: What You Need to Know

Ever watched a winger sprint past a defender and wonder how the other side stays solid? That’s the full-back working his magic. He’s the player patrolling the wide areas, mixing defense and attack, and keeping the team balanced. If you’re new to the position or want to sharpen your game, this guide breaks it down in plain English.

Core Duties of a Full-back

The first thing to get is the full-back isn’t just a stopper. He has three main jobs: protect the back line, support the attack, and cover the space behind the midfield.

Defend the sideline. When the opposition’s winger cuts inside, your job is to stay tight, force them wide and win the tackle. Positioning matters – stay a step ahead, keep your eyes on the ball, and avoid being drawn out of shape.

Join the attack. Modern full-backs push high, overlap the midfielder, and deliver crosses into the box. Timing is crucial; you want to arrive just as the midfield runs forward, giving your team extra width without leaving a gap.

Cover the space. If the wing‑back goes forward, the centre‑back or defensive midfielder may need to shift and cover. Communication with teammates ensures nobody is left unattended.

Training Tips to Boost Your Full-back Game

Now that you know the chores, let’s talk practice. Below are drills that hit each responsibility directly.

1. One‑on‑one defending drill. Pair up, set a small field, and have the attacker try to beat you inside the line. Focus on staying low, using your body to guide them wide, and timing your tackle.

2. Overlap run drill. With a midfielder, practice a coordinated run: the midfielder passes, you sprint past, receive the ball, and cross. Do it repeatedly until the timing feels natural.

3. Crossing accuracy. From the edge of the box, hit 10 crosses aimed at a target net. Work on both driven and lofted balls – the more options you have, the harder defenders are to mark.

4. Stamina circuit. Full-backs cover a lot of ground. Interval training – sprint 30 meters, jog back, repeat 8‑10 times – builds the endurance needed for a full match.

5. Positional awareness game. Set up cones representing opposition wingers and your own centre‑back. Move the cones to simulate attacks and practice adjusting your position without losing the defensive line.

Mix these drills into your weekly routine and you’ll notice quicker recovery, smarter positioning, and sharper crosses. Remember, consistency beats intensity – a little bit every day adds up.

Finally, watch professional full‑backs. Players like Jordi Alba, Trent Alexander‑Arnold, or Alphonso Davies show how speed, technique, and smart decision‑making create real impact. Pick a few clips, pause at key moments, and ask yourself what you’d do differently.

With the right mindset and focused training, the full-back role can become your strongest asset on the pitch. Ready to own the flank? Get out there, stay disciplined, and enjoy the game from the side line.