10 instances when players did double duty on the field

Most great players are specialists, fulfilling one particular role to perfection. But there are some rare geniuses who are so versatile that they can excel in a variety of roles, sometimes within the same game!In this list we look at 10 instances where players did double duty for the sake of their team, fulfilling more than one role with a great deal of panache:

#1 Pele

Pele

Garnier Men Double Action Moment - Playing for both teams in a match

Pele needs no introduction, really. Arguably the greatest footballer of all time, the Brazilian magician has many records to his name, most of which will likely remain out of the reach of all other players for years to come. 

Pele famously won three World Cups with the all-conquering Braziian national team in the 50s, 60s and 70s, and won several honours with his club sides Santos and New York Cosmos too. What is not so well-known, however, is the unique hand that Pele played in his last ever match.

On 1st October 1977 an exhibition was arranged between Pele’s two clubs Santos and New York Cosmos; this was to be the Brazilian’s farewell game, and was watched by millions across the world. But the more remarkable thing about the match is that Pele represented both teams in it; he played the first half for Cosmos, and the second half with Santos.

True to his genius, Pele scored a goal even in his last match; he slotted home a free-kick for Cosmos in the first half. This was ‘double duty’ at its best!