The Inverted Full-Back and the Space Behind

Watch the full-back when the ball is on the opposite side. If he tucks into midfield, the winger on that flank immediately faces a decision. Stay wide to stretch the defense or move inside to support the press. The real question is who covers the runner down the line.

Take Romas friendly against Newport County recently. They used a back three, which naturally gives them width through the wing-backs [citation:12]. The consequence is clear: the midfield unit shifts to cover the space the wing-back leaves.

The first ten minutes expose the plan. If the wing-back is too high and the central midfielder doesnt drop, that channel becomes an invitation for the opposition. Give it time. Watch the shape before the ball arrives.

Look at the full-back`s starting position. It tells you the entire pressing structure.

Question: When your team plays a back three, do you prefer the wing-backs to push high or stay deeper to protect against the counter?