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Mkeji27

The Dying Breed Of Utility Player In Football.

“Utility players” are those players that are comfortable in any or most positions they are asked to play on the soccer pitch and still exceeded expectations.

These are players who are not the R9's, CR7's neither are a certain GOAT (Messi) in their position. They are largely underrated but still, they find a way of endearing themselves into the hearts of coaches and fans alike:

Here in no particular order is a list of world renowned utility footballers:

James Milner (34, Liverpool):

For his team, Milner has been the epitome of unsung heroes. He is an excellent midfielder, who can play in a number of positions. Are their players who’re better technically, yes! Quicker players, yes! Players who head and strike the ball better, yes! But show me one who does all the things Milner does well. There isn’t one. In the ego-driven world of professional football, 'boring' Milner has shown himself to be more than happy to play the tambourine.

Dirk Kuyt (40, Retired 2017):

Rarely the most talented player in his team, Kuyt was loved and well appreciated all for his versatility on the football pitch. A player who has featured in all positions bar GK has a habit of performing well in big games. On his 100th cap for Holland, Kuyt started at left wing-back, moved to right-back, then striker and finally back to right-back all in the space of 90 minutes. After the match, the late Johan Cruyff said Holland were “blessed” to be able to count on Kuyt, we all are!

Bastian Schweinsteiger (36, Retired 2019):

Not many on this list can count themselves world champions or league winners (multiple times). Best known for his time playing for FC Bayern Munich, Schweinsteiger's versatility saw him quickly become a crucial member of the first team. With his determination and diehard attitude he reinvented himself and became almost everyone's favourite "German machine".

Ashley Young (35, Inter Milan):

Well known for his dangerous crosses and spectacular goals as a winger with Aston Villa, Young has morphed into a modern day full back currently in the books of Inter Milan. Though exciting and frustrating at equal measures at Manchester United, Young’s insatiable desire and drive makes him a mangers choice.

Michail Antonio (30, West Ham United):

One of the very few young (as compared with others) and active utility player of this period of extinction. Antonio who still believes his best position is on the wings but often finds himself on almost all position on the pitch. He knows much about gang culture and his "my brother's keeper" attitude and sacrifice has made him a cult hero with Hammers fans

NOTABLE MENTIONS:

Ritchie De Leat,
Wayne Rooney,
Cristian Ansaldi,
Callum Paterson,
Jeffrey Schlupp,
Gonzalo Castro,
Daniel Wass,
Kevin Grosskreutz,
Rodrigo Taddei,
Javier Zanetti.

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Mkeji27

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