How does Jersey #s work in Soccer?

[flintkingpin]

I read an article about Lampard or Gerrard uncomfortable in Rooney's jersey and blah blah blah...sure enough that person is wearing Rooney's 9..............why this hasnt dawned on me before, are jersey #s assigned by position? and if so what is the ordering?

thanks

[McGinty]

I read an article about Lampard or Gerrard uncomfortable in Rooney's jersey and blah blah blah...sure enough that person is wearing Rooney's 9..............why this hasnt dawned on me before, are jersey #s assigned by position? and if so what is the ordering?

thanks

They used to always be assigned by position. The number system is based on the original 2-3-5 formation.

Keeper - #1
Right back - #2
Left back - #3
Center backs - #4 & #5
Right midfield - #7
Left midfield - #11
Center midfielders - #6 & #8
Forwards- #9 & #10

Many nations will do this for friendlies. Permanent numbers are now assigned to players or chosen by the players. Still it is rare to see midfielders or defenders wearing the 9 shirt.

[JoseP]

I thought is was based on the 4-3-3 system as such:

Keeper - #1
Right back - #2
Center backs - #3 & #4
Left back - #5
Right midfield - #6
Center - #7
Left midfield - #8
Forwards- #9, #10, and #11

Thus, the #10 was the most coveted number because that meant you were the center forward. You never see much quarrelling over who gets #9 or #11.

[JoseP]

I guess I should look up information before I post - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jersey_number.

[flintkingpin]

thanks....Wikipedia is a freaking godsend for new soccer fans....ill have to check that site out more.