4 4 2 Formation

4-4-2 Diamond

4-4-2

This adaptable formation is the most common in football today. The midfielders are required to work hard to support both the defense and the attack: one of the central midfielders is expected to go upfield as often as possible to support the forward pair, while the other will play a "holding role", shielding the defense; the two wide midfield players must move up the flanks to the goal line in attacks and yet also protect the fullback wide defenders. 

The 4-4-2 diamond staggers the midfield. The width in the team has to come from the full-backs pushing forwards.