Continuing in our tips of being a better soccer player, this week we will reveal our top five tips on being a better midfielder.

The number 10, made iconic by Pelé, is one of the most sought-after numbers in the game. If you are the number 10, chances are you are one of the best players on the squad, but with great power also comes great responsibility. Do you have what it takes to be the general on the field? Do you have all the abilities? If not, take a look at our top five tips on how you can become a better midfielder.

1. Move around

Sure, this is an important thing to do at any position, however, as the midfielder, it’s your duty to be able to move around and be able to get the ball to the feet of the player with the best chance of continuing the play. If you don’t move around constantly you will be an easy mark and you will probably be taken out of the game. When you’re team passes you the ball, remember that you will be under pressure the second you get that ball. You have to move around to get the ball and find the open space in the field to get the ball and still have time to make the keen passes.

2. Find Space

Much like number one, you need to find space in the crowded midfield. Pass the ball to the wings, move around, and don’t follow the ball. Call for the ball as you open space between you and the opponent so that you can get those passes to the key team players. Run to open space whenever you can. Put yourself in a good position and you will be more effective.

3. Work on your vision

All the best midfielder have had one thing in common, great vision. Vision is how well you see potential passes. For instance, a great midfielder can quickly determine the best pass to use. Let’s say the other midfielder and forward are open, a midfielder with an okay vision would make the easy pass to whoever was closer, a midfielder with great vision will be able to notice the defense is on the left side and be able to pass a perfectly timed through ball to the right wing. Think about all the options available, lift up your head, and scan the field quickly. Practice on your vision during training, and in time you will develop a great game vision.

4. Shoot when you are near the box

Sometimes you will have the opportunity to dribble down the middle a little. This usually happens when the centerbacks are behind you and the defenders are focusing only on the forwards. It’s at that time that you need to strike. Make your space and shoot. If the forward is quality, he will be able to grab the rebound if you miss and strike.

5. play the simple pass

Sometimes, midfielders often become obsessed with playing the big pass.

A big back is usually a through ball that is played in the air to a forward at the goal. The idea behind it is that it will lead to a breakaway, the idea is good. However, the other team always expects this pass, especially if you try it numerous times in a game.

Trying those big passes usually don’t work. What midfielders should work on is trying the simple pass. The simpler the better.

When you make the easy passes and keep passing it around, the defense will become frustrated and tired. When they get tired, you will begin to see lags in the defense and that’s when you strike.

Have patience. Play the ball to the open man. Do one-twos. Play the ball back to the defense.

Don’t forget to always practice, practice makes perfect, those amazing players we named at the top would not be who they were if it wasn’t for practice. Don’t forget to stop by Ultimate Soccer Store for all your striker needs. From cleats to cones, to balls, Ultimate Soccer has it all.