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A midfielder whose main job is to receive the ball deep and drive forward with it. Not a classic playmaker who sprays passes, more someone who runs through the middle of the pitch with the ball at their feet. They beat the first line of pressure by carrying, not passing. Mousa Dembélé at Tottenham was the prototype - he'd just glide past people.
Mousa Dembélé at Tottenham was the ultimate carrier - his combination of strength, balance, and close control let him receive under pressure and drive through midfield, beating players without needing to pass around them.
Robbie
Feb 6, 2026
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