The No. 6 position in Philadelphia Union’s 4-4-2 shape - whether that shape takes on a diamond look in midfield or a box - is responsible for shielding the back line and dominating the space behind the other midfielders so they have freedom to step forward and press. It’s an incredibly complex role because, unlike the center backs behind him, the No. 6 has to make choices about when to leave the center and what space to prioritize without a partner to fill in if that decision is wrong.
Ernst Tanner went into the offseason determined to find more athleticism and coverage at the No.