The role of a striker is rather different from that of a traditional centre-forwards, although the terms centre forward and striker are used interchangeably as both play further up the field than other players and with tall, heavy and technical players like Zlatan Ibrahimovic having qualities of both.

Strikers are known for their ability to peel off defenders and to run into space via the blind side of the defender and to receive the ball in a good goalscoring position, as typified by Ronaldo. They are typically fast players with good ball control and dribbling abilities.

More agile strikers like Michael Owen have an advantage over taller defenders due to their short burst speed.

A good striker should be able to shoot confidently with either foot, possess great power and accuracy, and have the ability to pass the ball under pressure in breakaway situations.

While many strikers also wear the number 9 shirt, the position is also associated with the number 10, which is frequently worn by more creative deep-lying forwards such as Pele, and occasionally with numbers 7 and 11, which are often associated with wingers.