Robbie

Three centre-backs, five midfielders, two strikers. The wing-backs do most of the heavy lifting, defending when needed (making it a 5-3-2) and bombing forward to provide width (making it a 3-5-2). One of the three centre-backs often steps into midfield with the ball. Italian football loved this shape in the 1990s, and it's come back into fashion as managers look for tactical flexibility. Wing-backs need serious stamina.

A wide player who starts out on the flank but drifts inside to get shots or play passes centrally. Usually placed on the opposite side to their strong foot so they can cut in and shoot. The role took over from traditional wingers because managers wanted goal threats from wide areas, not just crosses. Pace, dribbling, finishing, and smart movement into space all matter.

Four defenders, three midfielders, three forwards (a striker and two wingers). The wingers stay wide to stretch defenses and give the striker room to work. The midfield three usually has a holding player with two more attacking midfielders ahead. Barcelona made this formation their identity under Cruyff and Guardiola. Good for teams who want to dominate possession and attack.

A throw-in that reaches the penalty area, effectively becoming a set piece. Rory Delap made it famous at Stoke - his throws were like crosses, and teams would defend them like corners. Not many players can do it properly, but those who can turn every throw near the corner flag into a scoring opportunity. It requires technique and strength.

A way of adjusting stats to account for how much the ball a team has. A team with 70% possession will naturally have more passes, so comparing their passing numbers directly to a team with 40% possession is misleading. Possession-adjusted stats divide by possession share to give a fairer comparison. Useful for evaluating defensive actions especially - making fewer tackles might just mean you have the ball more often.