OK, so based on all that, here's an update

Theoretical Legal Formation Requirements:

  • Goalkeeper
  • Some combination of 3 defenders (i.e. 3 players anywhere in the back row )
  • At least 1, but no more than 2, players on EACH outside flank. {the D(L/R), DM(L/R), M(L/R), AM(L/R) slots}
  • at least 3 midfielders (DM*, M*, AM*) one of which has to be in the middle row (MC, ML or MR)
  • at least 1 Striker


feel free to suggest better phrasing for clarity.