The full-back who forgets the space behind

Watch a full-back push high before the ball is played. That space behind him is the first place the opposition will look. Not because they are clever. Because it is there.

A full-back standing too high forces the centre-back to shift across. That shift opens a passing lane between the two centre-backs. One pass into that lane and the defensive line is broken without a tackle being attempted.

The first ten minutes tell you whether the full-back knows his cover. If he is high and the winger stays wide, the space is waiting to be used.

Keep your observation on the full-back position before the ball moves. The ball will find the space you fail to protect.

Question: Which full-back are you watching in the opening minutes today?