The evolution of a full-back: Ashley Cole on how position has changed over the years 

I’d still take Cole over any “modern day” full back

It's crazy how much the fullback position has evolved. Trent and Robertson have been playing in the PL for just only 6 years, yet they've destroyed the all time fullback assist record.

I'd say without a doubt both Ashley Cole and Lahm were the best full backs of their generation, both should be seen as the blueprint to how the fullback position should be played in the modern era.

Way I look at football: Old "wingers" who'd sprint down the wing then produce a cross for the striker, got replaced by Wing-Backs who'd defend and do that wing-role. This mean the old winger as part of 3 up front actually needs to be another top striker who's better at scoring and combining with the central striker on both sides. Seeing as the center of the pitch is important to defend first to make counter-attacks go out wide to the wings to slow progression into striking chances it's inevitable Wing-Backs would take on more of the attacking responsibilities and even long-ball route one option as well or overload in midfield or play-out from the back etc. Notably the exceptional pace of some players, means wing-backs need exceptional pace eg Walker vs Vincius Jnr. Cole is right it's interesting how it's developed: All players have more demands in more directions in general eg Goalies need to be able to play with the ball at their feet.

Ashley Cole ❤❤❤❤❤

Nice to hear one of the best in his position call Udogie elite.

It's almost as if nobody has heard of Johan Cruyff or Rinus Michels and think this is new. It's great to see the English catching up.

Next to Roberto Carlos, Ashley Cole was the best LB in the world...facts or undeniable facts?

Imagine Dennis Irwin today? He would be worth 2 billions.

Great sartorial effort

What does that "A" hand gesture mean that footballers sometimes do?

Modern fullbacks hate defending, half the times they get caught lacking defensively is because they're always looking to attack. Even if they're in their own box. I love Trent but half his defensive errors are due to this. Just look at the 2nd goal conceded against everton, he doesn't jump for the ball in hopes of starting the counter attack