Soccer’s a team sport, we all get that. But, if you’ve got speed like I had back when I was one of the fastest on my team, you’re probably wondering where you can maximize that gift on the field.
So today, we’re zoning in on a specific question: what’s the perfect soccer position for fast players? After a decade-long experience in this sport, I concluded the following:
The ideal soccer position for fast players is typically either the winger or fullback. Situated on the flanks of the field, these positions exploit their speed to outpace defenders, deliver crosses, and create scoring opportunities. These positions allow fast players to maximize their pace, contributing to offense and defense.
Intrigued? The winger/fullback position might seem straightforward, but there’s a lot more to it than just raw speed. Stick around to discover the speed types, tactics, and nuances that can elevate a fast player from a mere sprinter to a game-changing winger. By the end of the article, you will know everything you have to know.
Why winger is probably the best option
Look, I’m gonna level with you: if you’re quick, the winger position practically calls your name. Let’s break it down to three reasons why this is probably the best position for speedsters like you and me.
Space to Exploit
First up, the winger role offers an abundance of space. We’re talking wide, open areas that are a sprinter’s dream. You’re stationed out on the flanks, away from the crowded midfield, giving you the room to exploit your speed. Defenders are put in a nightmarish situation when you get the ball in these open spaces. Either they close you down, risking a blow-by, or they give you too much space, letting you whip in a cross. It’s a lose-lose for them and a win-win for you.
Just take a look at this Gareth Bales goal against Barcelona and you will see what I am talking about.
Tactical Flexibility
Next, let’s talk tactics. Being a winger doesn’t mean you’re just stuck hugging the sideline. Nope, you can cut inside like Robben, switch flanks, or even drop back to help out in defense. This tactical flexibility means you can pop up where the defense least expects you, making it even harder to mark you. Plus, your speed enables quick transitions from defense to attack, instantly turning the tide of the game.
Game-Changing Moments
Finally, let’s not forget about those game-changing moments. We’re talking about those last-minute counter-attacks, where the game’s on the line, and you’ve got half a field to cover. With your speed, you can be the one to carry that ball from your half to their box, either finishing the play yourself or setting up a teammate for the game-winner.
In fact, you will notice that most of the fastest players are exactly wingers. You can see that from our player’s speed analysis.
| Player Name | Speed (mph) | Position |
| Leroy Sane | 21.8 | Winger |
| Kyle Walker | 21.89 | Fullback |
| Karim Bellarabi | 21.98 | Winger |
| Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang | 22.08 | Forward |
| Inaki Williams | 22.13 | Forward |
| Erling Haaland | 22.39 | Striker |
| Kylian Mbappe | 22.41 | Striker/Winger |
| Adama Traore | 22.52 | Winger |
| Achraf Hakimi | 22.66 | Fullback/Winger |
| Alphonso Davies | 22.68 | Fullback/Winger |
Fullback is ideal for fast defenders
Alright, let’s switch gears for a second. So you’re fast, but you’ve got a defensive mindset? Man, have I got the spot for you: the fullback position. Here’s why fullback is tailor-made for quick defenders in today’s soccer landscape.
Defensive Cover
First and foremost, being fast as a fullback gives you a defensive edge. Imagine you’re up against a speedy winger; your pace allows you to keep up with him, match his runs, and ultimately snuff out the threat.
But it’s not just about marking; it’s also about recovery. Picture this: a ball gets played behind your defensive line. Who’s gonna chase it down? That’s right, you—the speedy fullback. Your speed allows you to cover mistakes, close gaps, and add a safety net for your center-backs.
Is there any better example than Walker?
Offensive Contributions
Don’t think the fullback role is all defense, though. You’ve got the green light to bomb forward and join the attack. Speed is crucial here; it lets you overlap with your wingers, get into dangerous areas, and whip in crosses or even get a shot off. You’re essentially a two-way player, contributing to both defense and attack, thanks to that speed of yours.
Here is why Alphonso Davies is the best example of this.
Tactical Versatility
Finally, speed gives you tactical options. Ever heard of the term ‘wing-back’? In certain formations, fullbacks are expected to cover even more ground, essentially acting as both a defender and a winger. Your pace allows you to fulfill this dual role, making you a tactical asset your coach would be foolish to ignore.
Speed vs acceleration in soccer
Let’s dig into a topic that doesn’t get enough airtime: speed and acceleration in soccer. People often lump these two together, but let me tell you, they’re as different as night and day, and understanding that difference can elevate your game to the next level.
Speed
First up, speed. Speed is your top-end gear. It’s what you see when a player is given acres of space to run into. Think of those wingers or strikers breaking away during a counter-attack.
Speed is essential for those long sprints, where you’re covering large portions of the field. But here’s the thing—those breakaway moments are rare. Unless you’re a winger with a lot of open field ahead of you, you’re not often reaching your top speed during a match.
Acceleration
Now, let’s talk about acceleration—the ability to reach your top speed quickly. In soccer, quick bursts of pace can be way more important than top-end speed. Whether you’re a midfielder looking to dart into space or a defender trying to close down an attacker, acceleration is king.
The game is made up of quick, sharp movements, so being able to hit your top speed fast is a huge asset. For instance, a center-back could forfeit 5-10 crucial yards while tailing such an attacker in a split second. Target men and goal poachers should possess this attribute to effectively shake off their defenders.
A rapid change of pace is equally vital for deep-lying forwards who assist in ball retention for their squad, facilitating swift counter-attacks.
The forward who excels at eluding his marker to latch onto crosses and create scoring chances from thin air is Suarez. He might not be the speediest on the pitch, but he bursts away from challengers effortlessly, even when dribbling the ball.
So, which one matters more?
If you ask me, acceleration takes the cake in soccer for most positions. Don’t get me wrong, speed is important, especially for roles that require long sprints, like wingers or fullbacks on overlapping runs. But acceleration is what allows you to react quicker, win 50/50 balls, and get the drop on your opponent.
Striker is the final alternative
If you’ve got speed to burn but don’t fit into the winger or fullback roles, setting your sights up top might just be the move for you. A classic poacher in soccer is always ready to strike, ready to seize the moment.
But let’s not forget the deep-lying or “false 9” role. These players hang back a bit, helping with ball retention and building up play. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t utilize speed. In fact, that quick turn of pace can turn the game on its head.
One moment they’re involved in the buildup, and in the next, they sprint into open spaces, turning a defensive setup into an explosive counter-attack.
What’s great about fast strikers is how they add a layer of tactical flexibility to a team. You can deploy them in various ways—alone up top, paired with another striker, or slightly deeper in a playmaking role. The common denominator here is their speed, either top-end or that quick burst of acceleration, offering multiple dimensions to an attack.
So if you’ve got the speed and a knack for finding the back of the net, don’t overlook the striker position. You might just find that it’s the perfect platform for turning half-chances into top-shelf goals. And let me tell you, there’s no better feeling than leaving a defender in your wake and hearing the crowd roar as the ball hits the net.
And what better example of this than Halaand?
