Giggs: I would rather see the traditional style of winger breaking through and delivering a cross, rather than a counter-attacking player cutting inside.

In a recent interview, Manchester United legend Giggs expressed his views on the reduction of traditional wingers in the Premier League. He believed that modern football has become "stifled" and "mechanized", and called for the return of traditional wing play.

The number of traditional wingers (players who play on the side of their dominant foot) in the Premier League has dropped significantly by 60% this season. What do you think of this tactical trend?

I hope it comes back, with left-footed players on the left and right-footed players on the right. I'm a bit biased, I'm a winger who likes to surprise and excite the fans. Sir Alex Ferguson used to say "give those who work in the factories something to smile about". I like to pass the ball forward, make runs, and try to make difficult passes with the outside of my foot because I know the coach won't necessarily blame me for it.

But inverse wingers like Liverpool's Salah and Arsenal's Saka are very successful now and seem to be mainstream. How do you think the tactical value of traditional wingers compares to them?

The argument against (traditional wingers) is that you have great players like Bale, Robben, Salah, they play on the other side, and then the question becomes "How do you play?" We used to play with two forwards or a number 10, trying to beat the full-backs out wide and cross. Now it's about cutting inside and connecting in series. But I hope the traditional wing play comes back. I would like to see two wide players beating the opposition on the touchline and delivering crosses.

You mentioned that modern football seems to be "stifled", can you explain specifically? Many will point to Grealish's transformation at Manchester City as an example.

You don't want to always go back to your own era, but the game does look a bit stifled for some quality players. Today's players are very skilled, but the criticism is that their personality is being stripped away by micromanagement. In an era where every position change is spelled out in detail and coaches are constantly telling players where to go on the sidelines, a style like Grealish's that was once full of improvisation has been transformed by Guardiola's demands for possession. Compared to when I first started playing football, I think the game is now more mechanical, full of tactics and more defensive-minded teams.

Having said that, are there any players currently whose style of play excites you?

There are a few, like Fulham's Josh King, and Odegaard, who excite me too, so it's not like that for everyone.

Mini-game recommendations:Compact Conflict