Royals defender on evolution of position

The role of the modern-day full back has changed quite considerably. They no longer are solely relied on their defensive abilities, but nowadays, they are an integral part to the offensive side of the game.

To understand this transition clearer, we spoke to Royals full-back Faye Bryson, on how she has seen her role adapt over the last few years, her inspirations, and the fan’s impact.

“When I was playing in the U15s, I was a right winger and it only came about because someone wanted to try out and swap positions. After giving it a try, I enjoyed it, and then just naturally changed into a full back. I enjoy the position just as much as I did when I was a winger because I've got an engine on me, and love to run up and down all day long.

“The role of a full back has changed a lot, like you only have to look at like how Liverpool have changed the game, and being a fan myself, I’ve watched the progression of what Trent Alexander-Arnold and Robertson do in their roles.

“For me, that's something that I like to try and bring into my game like, not just be this person who defends constantly, but try to join in the attack and create play. And for me, that sort of thing that I see as a big part of my game as much as I like defending and I like attacking.

“I’m always asked, what do I prefer, creating a chance or making a crucial block. Like I was saying, the responsibility we have now we have to be able to deliver on both, however, I think making a goal line block may just be the one. The feeling of doing so at West Ham, it’s hard to explain the adrenaline you get, especially when we then eventually get a draw from the game.

“One of the other best bits of being a full-back is constantly being near the fans. Looking back to the day against Chelsea, when we won 1-0, every time someone made a block, tackle, you could hear the crowd scream and every time we went on a counter attack or something and just having them most like the 12 men in the game or 12 woman.

“Our fan base is getting bigger and bigger. In fact, we got record attendance in the last home game and hopefully we can get that in the next one.”

Bryson on becoming a full-back, first season reflections and West Ham test