#3 Playmaking / late runs from deep
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Apart from the defensive duties, players like Pirlo and Xabi Alonso have taken the role to a whole new level – managers realised that with the whole pitch ahead of them, defensive midfield is a key strategic position from where to open up the opposition. Especially when the opposition attackers do not put in a diligent defensive shift, these midfielders have all the time in the world to dictate the tempo of the game.
One of the more recent experimentations in this regard saw Steven Gerrard deployed as a quarterback in 2013-14. It was an inspired move which helped the Liverpool captain overcome his lack of mobility and make full use of his vision, range of passing and driving runs from deep.
The role Lampard played for Chelsea / Manchester City in the later years of his career also highlights the tactical advantages a defensive midfielder enjoys – in being able to make untracked late runs into the box.
