The Importance of Shooting for Wingers
When it comes to crafting the perfect winger, shooting ability is indispensable. While it may be the last attribute we’re discussing—following pace, athleticism, crossing, adaptability, beating a man, and stamina—it is by no means the least important. Think of prolific wingers like Mo Salah or Bukayo Saka—players who consistently and effectively score goals.
Creating and Finishing Chances
Wingers can score in various ways. These can be simplified into two categories: creating a chance for themselves and finishing it, or finding space to receive a pass and calmly converting the opportunity.
Often, a winger receives the ball wide on the pitch, perhaps within ten metres of the touchline. From this position, they can take on their defender. Cutting inside opens up opportunities to shoot. For example, Mo Salah, a left-footed player operating on the right flank, frequently cuts inside to curl the ball into the far corner. During his extraordinary 2018/2019 season, Salah converted chances in multiple ways. These included beating defenders, exploiting spaces in the inside-right channel, and finishing crosses from Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Positioning When Receiving Crosses
A crucial situation every winger must master is positioning when the ball is coming from the opposite flank. Timing and awareness are everything. As the cross is delivered, where should the winger run? Effective strategies include hanging back near the far post, making a late run into the six-yard box, or pulling back to the penalty spot. Assessing the positioning of defenders and the goalkeeper is vital to anticipate the best location to attack the ball. A well-timed run can leave a winger unmarked and in a prime position to score.
The Hallmarks of a Standout Player
Whether it’s curling shots, poaching goals, or executing precise finishes from crosses, scoring is a critical attribute for wingers. Developing this skill requires not just technical execution but also understanding positioning, movement, and timing—hallmarks of a standout player.
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