Soccer Holding Midfielder
What Is A Holding Midfielder In Soccer?
A holding midfielder primarily stays between the defensive third and offensive third on the pitch. He will serve as an extra defender or attacker depending on the situation. He also receives passes from the goalkeeper to start offensive plays.
Holding Midfielder Roles and Responsibilities
A defensive midfielder, sometimes called a holding midfielder, is a playmaker and tackler. Rather than pushing forward and deep into the attacking third, defensive midfielders hold back and support both the defense and the attack. Passes are usually linked through the defensive midfielder, who has excellent field vision and the ability to switch the play and swing the ball. On defense, not only are midfielders asked to defend attackers, but often quickly receive passes from defenders to start an offensive attack.
Holding Midfielder Jersey Numbers
Defensive midfielders typically wear the number four or six when on international duty. However, jersey numbers for players at their clubs do not necessarily have to follow this rule. This means that a player may have a different number than usual when playing for their national team.
Notable Holding Midfielders
- Claude Makelele
- Didier Deschamps
- Dunga
- Gennaro Gattuso
- N'Golo Kante
- Roy Keane
- Sergio Busquets