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Glancing the ball with your head or foot to redirect it rather than controlling it, usually from a long ball or cross. A striker flicks on a goal kick to a runner behind them; a midfielder flicks a pass around a corner. Flick-ons require delicate touch and good awareness of where your teammates are. They keep the ball moving quickly and catch defenders by surprise.
Peter Crouch made a career out of flick-ons. His height meant he won headers, and instead of trying to control them, he'd glance the ball into the path of runners. Simple but effective.
Robbie
Jan 20, 2026
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