Difference between similar positions

[edhdurham]

Hi,

What is the difference between me playing a winger on support in the LM position, compared to the LW position?

Are they technically more attacking if they are further up the field and likewise slightly less defensive?

[CARRERA]

15 minutes ago, edhdurham said:

Are they technically more attacking if they are further up the field and likewise slightly less defensive?

Yes

[Experienced Defender]

3 minutes ago, edhdurham said:

Are they technically more attacking if they are further up the field and likewise slightly less defensive?

How much attacking or defensive they are is primarily defined by their duty and also the type of role (is the role inherently more attack-minded or moderate). However, a player in the wide midfield is positioned deeper than one in the wide forward position, which naturally makes it easier for him to get back earlier and help his fullback in defense. On the other hand, a player in a higher position - wide forward as opposed to wide midfielder - can be useful as a passing option for a quick ball forward when an opposition attack is intercepted in its relatively early stage. Also, a player in wide forward position is logically in a better position to close down the opposition high up the pitch, which is why top-heavy systems are more suitable for aggressive/high-pressing styles of play.