Striker Alternatives: Roles, Examples & When to Use Them

Need goals but don't have a classic number 9? You can still attack smart. "Striker alternatives" are player roles that replace or change the traditional centre-forward. They offer different ways to score, create space, press opponents, and link play. Below I break down the main options, when to pick them, and real-player examples you’ll recognize.

Types of striker alternatives

False nine — Drops into midfield to pull defenders out of position and create space for runners. Think Roberto Firmino at Liverpool or how Messi played at times under Guardiola. Use a false nine when you have fast attackers who can exploit the spaces behind defenders.

Second striker / shadow striker — Plays just behind a central forward, combining goal threat with playmaking. Thomas Müller is a classic example: not a pure striker, but always finds pockets to score or assist. Pick this role if your team needs a creative presence near the box.

Wide forward / inverted winger — Starts wide but cuts inside to shoot or combine. Heung-min Son or Riyad Mahrez often act like strikers from wide positions. This works when fullbacks are forced to track inside or when your wingbacks push high.

Target man who links — A tall, physical player who holds up the ball and brings others into play rather than just poaching. Olivier Giroud fits this bill. Use him when you want to relieve pressure, win aerial duels, or bring midfield runners into the attack.

Pressing forward / high press 9 — A forward whose main job is to start the press and force mistakes high up the pitch. Pressing forwards work best with disciplined midfielders who can recover the ball quickly when the press wins possession.

How to choose the right option

Look at your squad first. Got creative midfielders and quick wingers? A false nine or second striker will free them up. Strong, tall centre-backs in the opponent’s team? A target man can punish aerially. If your team relies on turnovers, pick a pressing forward.

Consider the opponent. Teams that sit deep need players who can drag defenders out and make runs in behind — false nine or inverted wingers help there. Against high defensive lines, use fast runners who stretch the backline.

Drills and set-up: Train the movement linking midfield and attack. Practice one-touch combinations around the box and timing of runs from wide to center. For a false nine, rehearse midfield drop-ins so teammates know where to move. For a target man, work on flick-ons and second-ball reactions.

Match signals: If your forward drops deep and no one fills the space, switch to a more direct striker. If fullbacks keep getting isolated, try an inverted winger to draw them in. Small tactical shifts can change which striker alternative works best.

Want quick wins? Test options in training games and use substitutions to try a different strike profile without changing your whole shape. Pick the role that fits your players and the moment — that’s how you get more goals without a classic number 9.