Sweeper-keeper

With teams playing in a more compact fashion and defenders pushing up without the safety of a sweeper behind them, the keeper's role has evolved to that of a sweeper-keeper. Gone are the days when a keeper could remain in his sixyard box and just play his line.

Sweeper keepers have high “soccer IQs” and know how to “read” the game brilliantly. They are able to play with their feet and head with equal skill to any defender.

It was a rule that made all keepers potential sweeper-keepers, and van der Sar was one of the very best around.