Passing has been a key aspect of the game since Scottish internationals bamboozled England in the late 19th century. Elite passers have operated in positions across the pitch and divisions from around the world. Cult heroes, Ballon d'Or winners and World Cup champions have all mastered the art of passing.
The obsession with passing is not a modern phenomenon. This fascination with how players caressed a ball and those who excelled in this particular discipline has existed since the first international football match in 1872, more than a century before possession statistics became available. England were held to a surprise goalless draw by their hosts at the West of Scotland Cricket ground in Partick.
While the visiting side were taller, faster and stronger, Scotland emerged with a clean sheet thanks to their 'pattern-weaving' style. This would be the first domino in a sequence of tactical schemes that has given birth to tiki-taka and the way most elite teams play to this day. Over the subsequent 150 years, the game has been littered with passing maestros.
These spiritual descendants of those Scottish weavers have come in all forms from every corner of the globe, underscoring the universal value attached to the most basic element of any football match; the pass. Assists - The final pass before a goal is the most important in football. Influence - The best passers can control their entire team based on how they shuttle the ball around the pitch.
Accuracy - Pass completion rate .