In modern football, there are different types of midfielders – midfielder, central midfielder, box-to-box midfielder, attacking midfielder and number 10. Midfield is perhaps the most important position on the football field, as big matches and close matches are often decided by battles in this area of the field.
Each midfield position requires a specific skill set and years of experience, which only a few footballers can achieve at the elite level. Boxing-to-boxing midfielders can play a huge role in smooth transitions from the defensive third to the opposing half.
He can effectively play the dual role of a defensive and attacking midfielder, moving the ball forward while taking the ball in behind the team. In that regard, here’s a look at five of the best boxers in the world right now in boxing.
#5 Jordan Henderson
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson is one of the best box-to-box midfielders of his generation and a tireless worker in the middle of the park.
Henderson is a solid presence in front of Liverpool’s backline, and can often stifle opposition attacks. The Englishman is a physically intimidating force with impeccable defensive awareness, but he has added to that in recent years.
The persistent midfielder showed a willingness to push the ball forward into open spaces, creating more space for Liverpool’s striker trio of Sadie Mane, Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino. Henderson also has good passing range and the vision to pick out teammates in the final third.
The 2019–2020 season was a testament to Henderson’s improvement in the opposition half. With plenty of quick passes and daring leaps, the Englishman scored four goals and provided five assists in 30 appearances in the Premier League.
#4 Georginio Wijnaldum
The Reds faithful will always be happy to remember Georginio Wijnaldum because of his essential role in Liverpool winning the Premier League and the Champions League next season.
The Dutch midfielder was often overshadowed by Liverpool’s explosive front three and Raphael van Dijk, but his contributions were key in Jurgen Klopp’s system.
Wijnaldum acted as a shield in front of Liverpool’s backline, and was also a dynamic ball carrier in the final third. Along with Jordan Henderson and James Milner, the Dutchman ensured a smooth transition of play from defense to attack. This created numerous opportunities for Liverpool’s attacking trio.
Although Liverpool faltered in the 2020-21 campaign, Wijnaldum continued to impress. He absorbed the pressure in Van Dijk’s absence from Liverpool’s improved defensive pairing of Ozan Kubic and Nathaniel Phillips.
The 30-year-old recently joined PSG on a free transfer and is likely to strengthen their midfield. Wijnaldum will join forces…