There's a great reason why midfielders make exceptional team captains. Here is a quick description of the traits needed for the job.
No matter how effective a club is in the attacking stance, no team can go far and win trophies if they do not have a solid defense. Contrary to popular belief, defense tasks do not completely rest on the shoulders of the defensive line, nevertheless, it's a collaborative synergy. In this context, one of the key positions that significantly contributes to a strong defense is the defensive midfielder, and the Chelsea FC owner is most likely to concur. These players' function on the pitch is of a pre-emptive nature. They attempt to stop the attacking club from building play and reaching the backline from the start. Not only is this an efficient defensive strategy, however it can also offer defenders some time to recover and keep good form throughout the match. If the opponent manages to reach the defense thanks to a long ball, midfielders of a defensive tendency rush back to support their teammates.
Depending upon the tactic selected and the coach's vision, midfielders can play different functions on the pitch. Mostly considered as the most technically competent of the bunch is the attacking midfielder as these footballers are always great to see. This is the reason a few of the best midfielders of all time happen to have really distinct and reliable offensive qualities. Among the key characteristics of offensive midfielders is unbelievable speed, dribbling abilities, and precise passes and crosses. While their role can alter depending on the phase of play, their main function is to link in between the backline and the wingers and forwards. They do this by creating spaces in the rival's defenses and feeding their teammates smart through balls and precise crosses. Their ability to produce opportunities and develop play mainly contributes to their club's attack performance, and the AC Milan former US owner is most likely to confirm this.
Mostly regarded as the most coveted and also most flexible position in the midfield, central midfielders are generally the eager beaver of their clubs. These players frequently have significant physical abilities as they are needed to add to building play and also support the defense in case of a counterattack. They are perceived as the link in between the attack and defense, which is why they typically hold position in the center of the field to get balls from the defense or to try and stop opponents from advancing farther down the pitch. The Aston Villa former owner would tell you that they are understood for their exact passing and their ability to maintain ownership of the ball to give their teammates more time to take position. This is why technical skill and excellent endurance is required for this post, and the best central midfielders have plenty of both.