Games are often won and lost in the midfield with the dominate engine room dictating the play.
The modern game has seen a trend in managers tinkering with their formations to cancel one another out, with the midfield the focal point of any given system.
Momentum and strength in numbers can see a midfield swamp the opposition - supporting the attack with options.
What can you do to protect your team against a stampede? Work as a unit and strangle the space through the centre of the pitch, according to England's Michael Carrick.
How often do Manchester United get overrun (Ok, so Barcelona ran riot, but they're arguably the greatest team ever)? Exactly.
To find out how they man their barricades, let Carrick explain in this video.
Michael Carrick wears Puma football boots. For more details, visitpumafootball.com
Also see:
The holding role: Pick the right pass
The holding role: Track your opposite number
The holding role: Press space, not players
The holding role: Cut the supply line
The holding role: Discipline is key
The holding role: Know your job
Michael Carrick: Protecting the back four
