Characteristics of Central Midfielders

Here’s what you should look for out of your central midfielders:

• They must have good leadership qualities.
• They must be very technically proficient. This means they must be able to perform in all types of pressure situations.
• They must also be very astute tactically. Decisions must benefit the team. (When to speed up the game, when to slow it down, when to switch, when to play the penetrative ball, and when to be safe)
• They must have at least adequate physical speed.
• They must fit the minimum requirements physically. The center midfield position does have some size, speed and fitness requirements based on function.
• They must have good passing range and accuracy.
• They must be able to shoot from distance.
• Excellent in maintaining possession.
• Good defensively. Must be excellent defensively if he/she is a defensive midfielder.
• Must contribute to goals/ goal scoring opportuities if he/she is an offensive center midfielder.
• Very high work rate.