What is a full back football?

A full back in football is a defensive player positioned towards the backline of the team's formation. Full backs play on either side of the center-backs (or central defenders) in a defensive line of four.

Their primary role is to provide defensive cover and support the team's midfield and forwards when necessary. They are responsible for marking the opposition wingers or wide forwards, preventing them from making dangerous runs or delivering crosses into the penalty area.

Full backs also contribute to the team's attacking play by overlapping the wingers or wide midfielders and providing width to the game. They often make overlapping runs down the flanks to receive passes and deliver crosses into the box, helping to create goal-scoring opportunities.

Defensively, full backs need to possess strong tackling and marking skills to win back possession and track back quickly to neutralize the opponents' attacks. They must have good positional awareness and be adept at reading the game to anticipate and intercept passes or cut off passing lanes.

In modern football, full backs are expected to have good technical skills, such as ball control, passing accuracy, and crossing ability. They should also possess the stamina and athleticism to contribute both defensively and offensively throughout the game.

Some famous full backs in football history include Paolo Maldini, Roberto Carlos, Dani Alves, Philipp Lahm, and Cafu.