Definition
Dead Ball Specialist
1 definition submitted by the community
1
A player who excels at free kicks, corners, and penalties. They're the designated taker because they consistently deliver quality. Dead ball specialists matter because set pieces account for roughly 30% of goals. Beckham, Juninho, and Trent Alexander-Arnold are known for this skill. Teams scout specifically for players who can provide quality from dead balls.
Beckham was the ultimate dead ball specialist. His free kicks curled impossibly, his corners found heads, and his penalties were clinical. United and England built set piece strategies around his right foot.
Robbie
Feb 10, 2026
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