Noun

Singular striker

Plural strikers

striker (plural strikers)

1. An individual who is on strike
2. Someone or something that hits someone or something else
3. (soccer) Players on a team in football (soccer) in the row nearest to the opposing team's goal, who are therefore principally responsible for scoring goals.
4. (baseball) (slang) an 1800s baseball term meaning the batter
5. (cricket) The batsman who is currently facing the bowler and defending his wicket

Synonyms

• (soccer position): attacker, centre forward, forward

Forwards, also known as attackers and strikers, are the players on a team in association football who play nearest to the opposing team's goal, and are therefore principally responsible for scoring goals. This very advanced position and its limited defensive responsibilities mean forwards normally score more goals than other players; accordingly, they are often among the best-known and most expensive players in their teams.

Modern team formations usually include one to three forwards; two is most common. Coaches typically field one striker who plays in an advanced position (the centre forward), and another attacking forward who plays somewhat deeper and assists in making goals as well as scoring (the second striker).

Centre forward

The centre forward is often a tall player, typically known as a target man, who is used to win long balls or receive passes and "hold up" the ball as team-mates advance, to help teammates score by providing a pass ('through ball' into the box), or to score himself; the latter variation usually requiring quicker pace. Some forwards operate on the wings of the field and work their way goalward. A centre forward usually must be strong, to win key headers and 'outmuscle' defenders.