Skip to main contentAccess keys helpA-Z index

watch listen BBC Sport BBC Sport
UK version International version About the versions|Low graphics|Help
---------------
---------------
CHOOSE A SPORT
 
RELATED BBC SITES
Positions guide: who is in a team?
Graphic showing a team formation

Regulation football is played by two teams of 11 players but there is a variety of formations that can be employed.

In a Premiership or League match, three subs from a nominated five are allowed.

In European competition, a manager can select from seven players on the bench. More can be used in friendlies.

In an 11-a-side match, a game cannot begin if either side has less than seven players.



RELATED BBC LINKS:

RELATED INTERNET LINKS:
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites

BBC PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
Daily and weekly e-mails | Mobiles | Desktop Tools | News Feeds | Interactive Television | Downloads
Sport Homepage | Football | Cricket | Rugby Union | Rugby League | Tennis | Golf | Motorsport | Boxing | Athletics | Snooker | Horse Racing | Cycling | Disability Sport | Olympics 2012 | Sport Relief | Other Sport...

Help | Privacy & Cookies Policy | News sources | About the BBC | Contact us