From W-M to the No 10, shirt numbers tell a story of football’s tactical evolution

In the days before squad numbers, the number on a shirt was an indicator of position, as well as the attributes a player was supposed to demonstrate

Numbers have a fascination. The No 10 is revered almost everywhere, but perhaps most especially in Argentina, where it denotes the playmaker, the enganche, the quasi-mythical figure who links the front and back of the team. Liverpool and Manchester United have reasons to celebrate their No 7. Ajax retired No 14 for Johan Cruyff, Milan their No 3 and No 6 for Paolo Maldini and Franco Baresi respectively and Birmingham their 22 for Jude Bellingham as gestures of respect for their abilities.