Central Defenders

More so than any other position, central defenders have to think of themselves as a partnership. Communication and understanding between the two is critical. Central defenders primarily defend central areas, in front of goal - obviously the most vulnerable part of the pitch. One of the two will always be the DEEPEST player - the one closest to our goalkeeper. This should shift depending on where the ball is. The defender closer to the ball will be pressing higher and providing cover for the outside back or midfielder who is attempting to tackle; the other central defender will sit deeper. The deeper player not only provides cover in this case, but has the option to step up and allow an unmarked opposing player to run into an offside position (this is why outside backs should never be the last - deepest - player). The picture below shows the left back (player 1) pressing/challenging a player in a wide position. The left-sided central defender (player 2) is providing cover, while the right-sided central defender (player 3) is slightly deeper, while staying connected to his/her partner.

Because central defenders set the defensive line, it is important that they defend neither too deep nor too high. The line will vary from moment to moment, game to game, based on the strength or speed of opponents, pitch or weather conditions, and amount of pressure we may be facing. Resist the temptation, when under heavy pressure, to simply drop deep. This only invites more pressure. Think about compressing space in front of you, forcing the opposition play in a narrow, crowded strip across the pitch.

When the ball is in our defensive third and we are under pressure, central defenders must work to maintain 'connection' with each other. If you get pulled too far apart, you will be unable to cover for each other, and will allow too many channels to goal. When in doubt, tuck in close together and defend from inside to out.

When a central defender steps into a tackle or an aerial challenge, their partner MUST ALWAYS tuck in behind and cover them. If a central defender knows their partner is always doing this for them, they can tackle and challenge more aggressively.

Especially against an opponent sitting deep and playing defensively, central defenders can initiate attacks by carrying the ball into the opponents' half and drawing an opponent out before passing. If the situation is right, an extended dribbling run can cause chaos and help break down a team 'parking the bus'. More often, central defenders will initiate attacks by passing. The first option is to find a midfielder  - often the holding midfielder - in space, but if that option isn't available, they should look to retain possession by connecting with the other defenders. Long balls out of the back should be considered a last resort, but don't be afraid to play it long if you feel pressured.

Winning tackles is of course an important part of the job, but a central defender should be looking to read the game, anticipate passes, and cut them out before they can reach their target (see the video at the bottom of Alessandro Nesta demonstrating this).

Central defenders are team leaders, and must communicate accordingly. Especially important is communication with the holding midfielder, since the role of that player is to 'screen' the back four, and not allow balls into the feet of a central striker. Especially when that striker plays 'between the lines' (behind the holding mid, ahead of the central defenders), it is difficult for the holding midfielder to see or track him/her. They need a shout to let them know where they need to be.

Finally, it is critical that central defenders exhibit confidence and poise with the ball at their feet. No other position is likely to have as much time and space on the ball. Our central defenders will set the tone early in every game that we are comfortable on the ball, and will look to retain possession.