If your child has just started playing football, the positions can sound confusing. This is a simple, parent-friendly guide to what each role does on the pitch — in plain language you can share with a young player — plus some honest advice on choosing a position at a young age.
A football team has eleven players split across three zones: defence (stopping goals), midfield (linking defence and attack) and attack (scoring goals). Here's who plays where.
The goalkeeper
The only player allowed to use their hands (inside the box). The goalkeeper stops shots, catches crosses and starts attacks with throws and kicks. Great young keepers have quick reactions, brave hands and aren't afraid to shout and organise.
The defenders
Centre-backs stand in the middle of defence, win headers and block shots — they're calm and strong. Full-backs play on the left and right; they defend the wings but also run forward to help attack, so they need lots of energy to go up and down all game.
The midfielders
Midfielders do the most running. A defensive midfielder sits in front of the defenders and breaks up the other team's play. A central midfielder is the engine of the team, helping both defend and attack. An attacking midfielder plays closer to the goal and tries to create chances with clever passes.
The forwards
Wingers play wide and are usually the quickest players, racing past defenders and crossing the ball. The striker plays furthest forward and has one main job: score goals, with sharp movement and a cool head in front of the net.
Which position should my child play?
The best advice for young players is simple: don't specialise too early. Children grow at different speeds, and the fastest or biggest kid at age ten is often caught up by age fourteen. Letting a child try several positions builds all-round skills and keeps the game fun — which is what keeps them playing.
When you do want a steer, look at how your child naturally moves rather than where the coach happens to need a body. Our youth development pathway is built around healthy, age-appropriate growth, and the football position finder can show the roles a young player is naturally suited to from a single video — a helpful, pressure-free starting point. For older players, our guide to the physical traits each position demands goes a level deeper.