Footballers Who Played In Every Position Including Goalkeeper: Footballers are usually known for their specific roles on the pitch, defenders protect, midfielders control, and strikers score. Goalkeepers, on the other hand, are specialists in their own unique position.
However, a few extraordinary players in history have broken the norm. They not only adapted to different roles across the pitch but even put on the gloves to play as goalkeepers. Their versatility and courage have made them unforgettable in football history.
Why Playing in Every Position is Rare
Modern football is highly specialised. Players train for years to master their own position, and it is very uncommon for someone to be trusted in every role. Playing as a goalkeeper is especially rare because it requires an entirely different skill set.
The few players who managed to cover all positions are remembered as legends of adaptability and commitment to their teams.
Famous Footballers Who Played in Every Position
1. Phil Boersma (Liverpool)
During his time at Liverpool in the 1970s, Phil Boersma was known as a utility player. He was used in almost every position, including as a stand-in goalkeeper when needed. His adaptability helped Liverpool manage injuries and suspensions in a crucial period.
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2. Steve Nicol (Liverpool & Scotland)
Another Liverpool great, Steve Nicol, was famous for playing across the entire pitch. From full-back to winger, central midfield to even goalkeeper, Nicol showed complete reliability and became one of the most trusted players in the squad.
3. John O’Shea (Manchester United & Ireland)
One of the most famous modern examples, John O’Shea played in every position for Manchester United, including goalkeeper. In a Premier League match against Tottenham in 2007, O’Shea replaced Edwin van der Sar and kept a clean sheet. He also scored, defended, and even played midfield for club and country.
4. James Milner (Manchester City, Liverpool & England)
Known as the ultimate utility player, James Milner has played in defence, midfield, attack, and even covered in goal during emergency situations. His tactical intelligence and work ethic have allowed him to adapt to almost any role on the pitch.
5. Ruud Gullit (Netherlands & AC Milan)
The Dutch legend was famous for his versatility. Throughout his career, Ruud Gullit played as a defender, midfielder, forward, and even filled in as a goalkeeper in his youth. His ability to dominate anywhere on the field made him one of the most complete footballers ever.
6. Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid & Spain)
While best known as a central defender, Sergio Ramos has been used as a striker in emergencies, played full-back, and even volunteered as a backup goalkeeper in training sessions. His leadership and adaptability reflect the rare breed of players who can play anywhere.
Other Notable Mentions
- Dion Dublin – Played both as a striker and centre-back regularly, and even covered in goal.
- David Alaba – Known for his flexibility at Bayern Munich, covering defence, midfield, and attack, and briefly standing in as goalkeeper in his youth.
- John Charles – The Welsh legend was famous for excelling as both a world-class striker and defender.
Why Fans Love These Players
Footballers who play in every position show more than just skill. They display:
- Team spirit – putting the team’s needs above personal preference.
- Adaptability – adjusting to the demands of any situation.
- Football intelligence – understanding the game from every angle.
Such players are rare in modern football, which makes their contributions even more valuable.
Footballers who played in every position, including goalkeeper, stand out as true team players. From John O’Shea’s heroic night in goal for Manchester United to the all-round brilliance of Ruud Gullit and James Milner, these players proved that versatility is a priceless quality.
Their stories remind us that football is not just about sticking to one role but about stepping up whenever the team needs it most.
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FAQs
Q1. Has any footballer played all 11 positions in one match?
No, but several players have covered every position across their careers, including goalkeeper.
Q2. Who is the most versatile footballer of all time?
Players like John O’Shea, James Milner, and Ruud Gullit are widely considered among the most versatile.
Q3. Did John O’Shea really play as a goalkeeper?
Yes, in 2007 against Tottenham, O’Shea played in goal for Manchester United and kept a clean sheet.
Q4. Are such versatile players common today?
No, modern football is very specialised, making such all-rounders rare.
Q5. Which defender also played as a striker in his career?
Dion Dublin and Sergio Ramos both played as strikers in emergencies, despite being defenders by trade.
