What is a wing back in football?

A wing-back is a player who plays in a wide position but has both defensive and attacking responsibilities. They typically operate as a full-back but with more freedom to move forward and support the team's attack. In the modern game, they are often seen in a back five formation, providing width in attack and being a key part of the team's defensive structure. The primary task of a wing-back is to provide crosses to the team's strikers, while also ensuring that they defend well and prevent opposing teams from scoring. Wing-backs are usually expected to be very mobile, with excellent stamina and speed, as they have to cover a lot of ground both in the attack and defense phases of the game. Some of the famous wing-backs in football include Marcos Alonso, Jordi Alba, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Dani Carvajal.