The undercover playmakers

[Cris 09]

Great article on defensive full-backs

The undercover playmakers from fifa.com

Nowhere is this development of the modern game more marked than in the ever-evolving position of full-back. Where once a workmanlike defensive display, a turn of pace and a few decent crosses was all that was required even at the highest level, today's right and left-backs have become pivotal figures in their sides' attacking efforts, complementing their defensive skills with abilities normally reserved for creative midfielders. Unsurprisingly, full-backs often top the match stats for number of touches of the ball.
full article (http://fifa.com/worldfootball/news/newsid=622726.html#the+undercover+playmakers)

[KumarsS]

Fullbacks are by far the most undervalued players in the game today. Philipp Lahm and to a lesser extent Daniel Alves are living proof that fullbacks can be the most creative and technically proficient players on a team.

[ForeverRed]

Fullbacks are by far the most undervalued players in the game today. Philipp Lahm and to a lesser extent Daniel Alves are living proof that fullbacks can be the most creative and technically proficient players on a team.

And before them, Willy Sagnol who is underated to this day.

[Grinners89]

Fullbacks are by far the most undervalued players in the game today. Philipp Lahm and to a lesser extent Daniel Alves are living proof that fullbacks can be the most creative and technically proficient players on a team.

Firstly, Lahm these days isnt doing so well (injuries, loss of form etc).

The problem with Dani Alves is that when he attacks down the right flank...Christian Poulsen moves to a RB position and leaves them with only one CM (Marti, Keita etc) and that is why Sevilla were playing badly at start of the year...i think they used Dani Alves too much. Arsenal and Fabregas had a field day against Sevilla as they had Flamini and Cesc against Marti from Sevilla and overwhelmed him. If anyone attacks Sevilla through the middle when they use Dani Alves, then they are almost certain to score.

[KumarsS]

Firstly, Lahm these days isnt doing so well (injuries, loss of form etc).

The problem with Dani Alves is that when he attacks down the right flank...Christian Poulsen moves to a RB position and leaves them with only one CM (Marti, Keita etc) and that is why Sevilla were playing badly at start of the year...i think they used Dani Alves too much. Arsenal and Fabregas had a field day against Sevilla as they had Flamini and Cesc against Marti from Sevilla and overwhelmed him. If anyone attacks Sevilla through the middle when they use Dani Alves, then they are almost certain to score.

There has been no "loss of form", sir. He was injured for a lengthy spell, befor which he was playing splendidy for club and country - he's only been back for a few games, I don't think three quiet games can constitute a loss of form.