Legendary Italian striker Gianluca Vialli once theorised that the right back was the worst player on any team. If they had more defensive nous they would be moved infield while a superior attacking outlet would line up as a winger. Even a left back has the added whiff of mystique by being left footed.
But as modern day football has evolved since Vialli’s retirement, incorporating flexible formations that change whether or not your team is in possession, it’s become increasingly important for fullbacks to be able to not only charge up and down the flank, but also tuck inside as an extra ball-playing midfielder.
