Unlike baseball and American football, soccer positions are not set in stone and frequently change depending on your team's strategy. However, one position that is nearly always included is the left wing. Capable of defense, offense or both, a left wing is a critical part of the team. If you are a left wing, consider how to use your to help your team score goals and defend against shots.
Step 1
Confirm whether you are a left wing midfielder or a left wing defensive back with your coach or team captain. Midfielders are involved in offense and defense, while defensive backs primarily remain on defense. Not knowing your precise position may leave you in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Step 2
Spread the field out by receiving passes closer to the sideline rather than pinching into the center of the field. Spreading the field creates space for your fellow players to move in, and makes it more difficult for the opposing team to defend against you.
Step 3
Cross the ball into the goal area for center midfielders and strikers to finish. Left and right wings are responsible for getting the ball into the corner and creating goal opportunities for fellow players in the middle of the field.
Step 4
Work on your left foot agility to make passes more powerful and confident. Many players are not naturally left-footed, and although right-footed kicks are possible from the left wing position, they are not as efficient.
Step 5
Move into open space and consider the positions of your other players. If a center midfielder or defender is pushed into your area of the field, move into the open space that he has created.
Step 6
Devote more time to endurance training, since left wings often are responsible for playing a larger area of the field as both defensive and offensive players. If you aren't in decent shape, you cannot keep up with the pace of play.
Step 7
Receive and distribute passes from the defensive, center and forward areas of the field. Redistribute the passes to open players.
Step 8
Receive, control and distribute goal kicks from your team and the opposing team. When a goalie receives a ball and kicks it down the field, it often heads to the sides -- either to the right or left wing positions. Because these balls are often drop-kicks, you should practice chest traps and headers with a focus on control.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't avoid asking for a substitution if you are tired. Left wings frequently come out of the game for a rest because of the high physical demands of their position.
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