3. The Number 9
The most tradtional form of striker is the old number 9. Despite not being as popular in today's game, the idea of a big and strong target man remains in the heart of many. A number 9 can have a number of abilities, most notably strength, heading, and finishing, but also more subtle roles such as bringing the ball down and holding it up. A player in this role is expected to lead the line and remain up the field, but most importantly when the ball is put in the box, they must score. Radamel Falcao is perhaps the best example of this type of role in the modern game, and he certainly does not do any disservice to the once cherished position. Falcao at his core is a goal scorer, and inside the box is truly his stomping grounds. It does not matter how he does it, he is competent with both his feet and his head, and he is the focal point of Atletico Madrid's attack. With 29 goals scored already for club and country this season it is hard to argue that the old method does not get results. Being able to score in front of goal is essential for any forward but particularly for a true number 9. It is by being so clinical that Radamel Falcao now has a price tag of over £40 million. Source(s):
ESPN Soccernet http://youtu.be/lqmDaQXvsLE