A winger can have different forms. The characteristics of a winger differ a lot in a 442, 433 or a 4231.
442 winger - Attacks and defends equally, should put in good crosses. The 442 is not widely used nowadays but the typical wingers of this category would be Beckham, Valencia etc.
433 winger - He is almost a forward, with pace and less defensive duties, has freedom to move anywhere in the forward area without crossing the ball a lot - Robben, Villa
4231 winger - Mainly a forward, but used to defend high up the pitch. He is not the main source of creativity in the team but tactically is a crucial part - Silva, Palmdev
