Blog Posts

How to become a good left-back?

Being a left-back requires being great at both attack and defense and here are some of the things that you need to become a more well-rounded full-back

The most crucial attributes to be a good left back are:

Physicality

Left backs need to be strong and athletic in order to defend against the opposition’s wingers and full-backs. They need to be able to run for long periods of time and have the stamina to recover quickly after sprints.

One of the most physical left-backs in the world happens to be Luke Shaw. The Manchester United man is very strong in the tackle and uses his physique to narrow down attacking angles of the players he’s marking.

Technical ability

Left backs need to be good with the ball at their feet. They need to be able to dribble past opponents, cross the ball accurately, and pass the ball accurately. If you want to improve your technical ability as a left-back, we’d recommend you to study someone like Alphonso Davies. The Canadian might be famous for being very quick but he’s technically very accomplished which allows him to dribble past opponents in tight spaces

Decision-making

Left backs need to be able to make quick decisions in both attack and defense. They need to know when to attack and when to defend, and they need to be able to make the right pass or cross in the attacking third. Once again, decision making is name of the game and in this role, you need to know whether you’re supposed to clear the ball or be more composed or whether you need to put in a quick cross or utilize space to make a more penetrating run.

Positioning

Left backs need to be aware of their positioning at all times. They need to be able to track back and defend when their team loses possession, and they need to be able to get forward and support the attack when their team has possession.

Mentality

Left backs need to have a strong mentality. They need to be able to deal with the pressure of playing in a high-profile position, and they need to be able to stay focused and motivated for the full 90 minutes.

Some of the best left backs in the world today, such as Andrew Robertson, Jordi Alba, and Marcelo, all possess these attributes in abundance. They are all strong, athletic, technically gifted, and have excellent decision-making and positioning. They are also all mentally tough and can handle the pressure of playing at the highest level.

If you want to be a good left back, you need to focus on developing these attributes. You can do this by training hard, playing as much as you can, and watching and learning from the best left backs in the world.

Athlete Focus Video Analysis

In order to help young athletes achieve their development goals, Athlete Focus offers in-depth video analysis, leveraged by a great software and top level coaches who will help you learn from every moment.

Make your first order today and get a free video!