what is the role of a number 9 in football
Squad number (association football) For instance, "1" is frequently used by the starting goalkeeper, as the goalkeeper is the first player in a line-up.[1] It is also the only position on the field that is required to be occupied. "10" is one of the most emblematic squad numbers in football, due to the sheer number of football legends that used the number 10 shirt; playmakers, second strikers and attacking midfielders usually wear this number.[1] "7" is often associated with effective and profitable wingers or second strikers.[1] "9" is usually worn by centre forwards or strikers, who hold the most advanced offensive positions on the pitch, and are often the highest scorers in the team.[1]
Utility player In gridiron football, the utility player is often capable of playing multiple positions, and often they may play both offense and defense. The concept was far more common in the early days of football, when pro teams used their best athletes as many ways as possible, and substitutions were far more restricted, meaning players had to stay on the field for offense, defense and "special teams". This was known as the one-platoon system.