Position · Defence · GK
What does a goalkeeper do?
Last line of defence and, in modern football, the first passer in build-up. Organises the defensive line from behind — seeing the full pitch face-on — and joins play as a 'sweeper with gloves'.
How the goalkeeper moves
Shifts laterally to narrow the shooting angle; advances when the line pushes up; retreats inside the box for crosses.
Types of goalkeeper
- Sweeper-keeper: advances off the line to cut out balls over the top — requires a high defensive line.
- Ball-playing GK: joins build-up to create a numerical +1, outnumbering the press.
- Classic reactive GK: stays on the line, focused on shot-stopping — for low-block teams.
Why the goalkeeper plays there
He sees the entire pitch face-on, so he is the only player who can organise from behind. Playing with his feet means the team attacks 11 v 10 in build-up — the opposition cannot mark everyone.
In Gaffer FC you click the goalkeeper on an interactive pitch and switch formations to see how the role shifts. See inside the app.