Meaning & use

utility player in soccer

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UK/juːˌtɪləti ˈpleɪər ɪn ˈsɒkə/
US/juːˌtɪləti ˈpleɪər ɪn ˈsɑːkər/

Meaning

  1. phrasefixed phrasesport

    In soccer, a player who can cover several positions on the field rather than one fixed role.

    Grammar: Use it as a noun phrase: 'She is a utility player in soccer.'

    Patterns

    • be a utility player in soccer
    • sign someone as a utility player in soccer

    Coaches value a utility player in soccer because squads are small and injuries are common.

    He was signed as a utility player in soccer and has already played in defense and midfield.

    Being a utility player in soccer can help a young athlete get more playing time.

Common combinations

a reliable utility player in soccer
They need a reliable utility player in soccer to cover for suspensions.
sign a utility player in soccer
The club decided to sign a utility player in soccer during the transfer window.
a utility player in soccer at college level
She was a utility player in soccer at college level before turning professional.

Synonyms and how they differ

versatile player
A broader description of many skills; 'utility player' focuses on covering different positions.
utility man
A British-style variant, usually for a male player.

Opposites

Word family

utility noun
Usefulness or practical value in many situations.

Commonly confused: utility player in soccer or substitute?

utility player in soccer vs substitute

A substitute replaces a specific player during a match, while a utility player is valued for being able to play many positions.

Practice

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