Jan Paul van Hecke

Modern central defending has changed.  Centre-backs still must defend their box, win duels, and clear danger.  But most teams nowadays ask them to start the attack in the first phase, to vary their passing, to be comfortable under pressure, and to solve problems with the ball as much as without...

Whether playing against a high press or a low block, the centre-back's role is key in the build-up phase and breaking the first line of pressure. Playing out from the back involves much more than simply being comfortable on the ball. The modern centre-back must be equipped in various ways...