Jürgen Klinsmann

Full Name: Jürgen Klinsmann
Date of Birth: 30/07/1964

Introduction

Born in Göppingen in 1964, Jürgen Klinsmann will go down as one of the best German strikers of the modern era. “The Golden Bomber”, a nickname which derives from his blonde hair and predatory goal scoring nature, enjoyed an illustrious playing career which stretched across Europe. He played for many famous clubs, scoring 232 goals in the process.

He is particularly well thought of amongst the faithful at Tottenham Hotspur, where he had two spells, in which he became famous for the ‘Klinsmann Dive’, a celebration which he pioneered as he celebrated his first goal for the club against Sheffield Wednesday. He recently managed the German national team to an unexpected third-place finish in the 2006 World Cup. He subsequently resigned in July 2006 and since then has been linked with various managerial posts such as Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and LA Galaxy. It remains to be seen where the German’s next adventure will begin.

Career Overview

Club Football

Klinsmann’s first involvement in football came when he was just eight years old. During his youth, he played in every position, including goalkeeper. It wasn’t until he turned seventeen that he signed a professional contract with Stuttgarter Kickers, a second division club at the time, in Germany.

In 1984, he joined another Stuttgart club, the more celebrated VfB Stuttgart. It was here where Klinsmann started to make a name for himself as a prolific goal scorer, as he scored 79 goals in 156 appearances. In 1988, he was topscorer of the Bundesliga and was voted “German Player of the Year”. This form brought him to the attention of many leading European clubs. As a result, in the summer of 1989, it was Internazionale who sealed the sought after signature of this highly rated German striker. He joined fellow countrymen Lothar Matthäus and Andreas Brehme in a team that easily won the Serie A title in their maiden season at the club. After scoring 40 goals in 123 appearances for the Milan club, Klinsmann moved to France in 1992 to play for AS Monaco. He had now established himself as one of the finest strikers in world football, but didn’t win a major trophy in the two years he was at the French club.

His journey through Europe continued, and White Hart Lane was his next destination when he signed for Tottenham Hotspur in 1994. Upon his arrival in England, he was not very popular amongst the English press. This was not only because his German side had knocked England out of the 1990 World Cup, but also because he came with the reputation as a diver. However, Klinsmann was soon one of the favourites amongst the press, after he made fun of himself by diving across the pitch to celebrate his first goal for the club against Sheffield Wednesday. Here is is some YouTube action of that goal. This act endeared him not only to the press, but the British public in general. Klinsmann went on the win the 1995 Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year. His passion and spirit shown whilst on the pitch, along with his goals, has made him one of the true greats at Tottenham Hotspur.

After only one season in London, he joined Bayern Munich where he again continued his goal ratio of one in every two matches, scoring 31 goals in 65 appearances. He then played eight games for Serie A side Sampdoria in Italy, before returning to Spurs in 1998 on loan, where he saved them from relegation – scoring nine goals in just fifteen appearances. It was during his second spell at Spurs that Klinsmann decided to retire from playing professional football after the 1998 World Cup. However, he was persuaded to come out of retirement in 2003 when he played under a stage name, Jay Goppingen, for Orange County Blue Star in the American Premier Development League. The 39-year-old still had a taste for goals, scoring five in just eight outings.

International Football

Klinsmann’s onternational career was also successful. He was first called up for Germany duty in 1987, after which he accumulated 108 caps, along with 47 goals.

He achieved many International landmarks whilst playing for his country. He became the first player ever to score at least three goals in each of three World Cups. He has now been joined by Ronaldo of Brazil in that elite group. However, Klinsmann still remains second all time in World Cup goals scored by a German with 11, and only Gerd Muller has scored more. He is joint fifth in the overall rankings, in which Ronaldo tops with fifteen goals.

Klinsmann played in three European Championships, reached the final in 1992, and went one better when he won a winners medal in Euro ‘96 in England. He also played in three World Cups in the 90s. He achieved the ultimate prize when the West German side won the World Cup in 1990, in which he scored three goals. His greatest performance at a World Cup came in USA for the 1994 World Cup, where he scored five goals. Klinsmann also has a bronze Olympic medal to his name, and has scored eight goals to go with his fourteen Olympic caps for his country.

Coaching Career

Klinsmann’s first job outside his professional playing career was with a sports marketing consultancy based in the United States, where he became vice-president. He was heavily involved in Major League Soccer as part of the Los Angeles Galaxy team. He then returned to Germany in 2004 to take charge of the national team, and succeeded former team mate and strike partner Rudi Völler.

Klinsmann’s first and only task as manager of the Germany team was to bring success in a World Cup which they hosted in 2006. Klinsmann brought a much-needed freshness to the International set-up and placed huge emphasis on youth in his squads. Players were no longer picked because of who they were, but instead on current form and merit. The clearest example of this was when Klinsmann dropped Oliver Kahn, and made Jens Lehmann the new number one goalkeeper after his excellent season with Arsenal.

Klinsmann’s arrival as manager of the national team was not greeted with too much praise from the German public or press. In the build up to the World Cup, his German team were humiliated by Italy, losing 4-1. Klinsmann also commuted to Germany from the United States, something which was very much frowned upon by the German public.

However, Germany’s performance under Klinsmann in the 2006 World Cup hushed his critics. Germany won all three group stage games against Costa Rica, Poland and Ecuador with ease. Then, a 2-0 victory against Sweden in the first knockout stage set up a mouth watering tie against much favoured Argentina in the quarter finals.

After an equalising goal from striker Miroslav Klose, the match went to penalties. Germany won 4-2 with help from Lehmann and his infamous note, which contained information on all the Argentinian spot-kickers. The nation was now behind Klinsmann but Germany’s heroics sadly ended there, as they crashed out of the competition after losing 2-0 in extra time to eventual winners Italy. They did, however, defeat Portugal 3-1 in the third and fourth playoff match. After this victory, there was a huge parade in Berlin where Klinsmann and his young squad were treated to an emphatic reaction from the public. Even Franz Beckenbauer, a previous critic of Klinsmann, announced that he wanted to keep Klinsmann as the coach. The new attacking style of play that Klinsmann created was now accepted by the German public, as they felt that national pride had been restored. To cap it all off, Klinsmann was even referred to as “Kaiser”, meaning “emperor”, a word which is normally set aside for German footballing greats such as Beckenbauer.

Despite all the support, Klinsmann stepped down as coach because of family reasons.

Where next for the Golden Bomber?

Jürgen Klinsmann has now proved himself as both a player, and as a manager. The future for the German can only be a bright one. Whenever a top managerial vacancy arises, he seems to be one of the first names to be put into the hat. Where his next destination is, only he knows. But, whatever his choice, it will most likely be the right one for him and his team.

Individual Honours

• FWA Footballer of the Year: 1995
• German Footballer of the Year: 1994, 1988

Player Statistics

Senior Club and National Team Statistics

Period	Team	Appearances (Goals)
1981-1984	Stuttgarter Kickers	61 (22)
1984-1989	VfB Stuttgart	156 (79)
1989-1992	Internazionale	123 (40)
1992-1994	A.S. Monaco	65 (29)
1994-1995	Tottenham Hotspur	41 (21)
1995-1997	Bayern Munich	65 (31)
1997-1998	Sampdoria	8 (2)
1997-1998	Tottenham Hotspur (on loan)	15 (9)
2003	Orange County Blue Star	8 (5)
1987-1998	Germany	108 (47)

Kevin Keegan

Full Name: Joseph Kevin Keegan OBE

Date of Birth: 14/02/1951

Early Life

Joseph Kevin Keegan was born in Armthorpe, Doncaster, on Valentine’s Day 1951. A keen footballer from his youth, it was always his dream to play for the Doncaster Rovers. He trained with the Enfield House Youth Club but, as a teenager, the Rovers turned Keegan down; instead, Scunthorpe United took an interest in him in 1967, when he was 16. Within a year he was playing for the first squad.

Professional Career

In 1971 Keegan was signed to Liverpool for the sum of £35,000. He was transferred as a midfielder but ended up playing forward alongside striker John Toshack. The two of them struck up a famous partnership and quickly became well known and loved by commentators and fans. The “Dynamic Duo” attained superhero status and were frequently compared to Batman and Robin.

In his first game of the 1971-72 season, against Nottingham Forest, Keegan scored after only 12 minutes (although mainly by luck on this occasion). Liverpool won 3-1, changing their fortunes and launching Keegan’s career.

He played his first match for England at under-23 level the same year, making his full debut in 1973 - his first of 63 caps. Keegan scored his first goal for England in 1974, against Wales at Ninian Park. England won 2-0.

Meanwhile Keegan’s star was rising higher with Liverpool, whom he helped to win the League Title and the UEFA Cup. In 1974, the team also won the FA Cup. In addition, they played the Doncaster Rovers - the club who had turned him down at the beginning of his career. He relished scoring both goals of the 2-2 draw.

In 1976 Liverpool won both the League Championship and the UEFA Cup. Keegan scored twice in Liverpool’s 4-3 final victory over FC Bruges. He came to greater public attention still when he took part in the BBC program “Superstars”, winning even after injuring himself when he fell off his bike in the cycling event.

In total, Keegan made 323 appearances for Liverpool and scored exactly 100 goals in his time there. Before he left, he helped secure the team’s first European Cup win, 3-1 against Borussia Moenchengladbach in Rome.

In 1977 Keegan made a surprise transfer to SV Hamburg - this time for a price of £500,000. Despite some initial difficulties he soon won the heart of his German fans, turning a mediocre club into a triumph. They won the German league and reached the final of the European Cup, losing out to Nottingham Forest. As a result of his time there, he would twice be named European Player of the Year in 1978 and 1979.

After three seasons he returned to England in 1980, this time to play for Southampton - another unexpected move, as Southampton were a comparatively small club at the time. Keegan’s talent and appeal temporarily raised the team to the top of the league table. In 1982 he was voted PFA Player of the Year. He was also given an OBE for his services to Association Football.

Keegan was named for the England Squad for the World Cup tournament the same year. Due to a recurring back injury he was unable to play in any of their group games. Knowing this was his last chance to participate in a World Cup, he sought help from a German specialist, driving there from Spain in a last-ditch attempt to be match-ready. He was able to come on as a substitute in a second round pool game. However, he will always be remembered for the point-blank header at an open goal that he missed, meaning that the match ended 0-0. It was his last England game. After an angry outburst to the press and a change of England manager, he was never selected again.

Later in 1982 Keegan made another surprise move, this time down to the second-division Newcastle United, after he fell out with Southampton coach Lawrie McMenemy. Once again he worked his magic, drawing them up the league table. Over the course of 78 appearances he scored 48 goals.

In 1984 he announced his retirement. After the last match of the season, at St James’ Park, he left the grounds by helicopter and moved to Spain with his family.

Management Career

After eight years of retirement, Keegan returned from Spain in 1992 to manage the club he had last played for. At the time, Newcastle United were struggling and expecting relegation. Assisted by Terry McDermott - a post funded from his own pocket - Keegan came on board with 19 games left in the season and proved as adept at turning things around as a manager as he had been as a player.

He stayed there for a successful five years, retiring early in 1997 and moving to Fulham that autumn. Much to Fulham fans’ disappointment, he left only 18 months later to replace Glenn Hoddle as England manager. Initially a hit, helping England to qualify for Euro 2000, he later fell out of favour and resigned after England lost 1-0 to Germany.

From 2001 to 2005 Keegan was manager for Manchester United. Although retiring in March 2005, he has since been rumoured to have been offered management of Israeli club Beitar Jerusalem. More recently, there have been rumours that he turned down a position in the Newcastle management.

Keegan now claims that he has left professional football behind for good. He told the BBC, I haven’t watched a game of football live since my last game at City and I can’t even remember what game that was now. So I don’t think that’ll happen but I do get offers to go back into football. But I made a decision that I would do something different. He currently runs the interactive Soccer Circus attraction at Xscape in Glasgow.

Personal Life

Keegan is married to Jean. He has two daughters, Laura Jane, who was born in Hamburg, and Sarah Marie, who was born in Southampton.

Keegan is famous for his odd quotes about football, many of which were recorded during his work as a football pundit in the 1990s. These include gems like Gary always weighed up his options, especially when he had no choice and England can end the millennium as it started - as the greatest football nation in the world.

The Toon come calling

Kevin Keegan made a dramatic return to football management amid euphoric scenes on Tyneside in January 2008. The former Geordie boss was installed as manager of his beloved Newcastle for a second time. Keegan may well be joined by his former striker, Alan Shearer, who indicated to Gary Lineker on Match of the Day that he would be interested in joining King Kevin at St. James' Park.

Player Statistics

Senior Club and National Team Statistics

Period	Team	Appearances (Goals)
1968 - 1971	Scunthorpe United	124 (18)
1971 - 1977	Liverpool	230 (68)
1977 - 1980	Hamburger SV	90 (32)
1980 - 1982	Southampton	68 (37)
1982 - 1984	Newcastle United	78 (48)
1985	Blacktown City Demons	2 (1)
1972 – 1982	England	63 (21)

Player Achievements

Awards and Honours

Award	Year(s)
World Player of the Year	1978, 1979

Roy Keane

Full name: Roy Maurice Keane
Date of birth: 10/08/1971

Introduction

Surely one of the most controversial footballers ever to play in the English game, Roy Keane has had a distinguished career, littered with trophies and accolades. Keane had a long and highly successful career at the world famous Manchester United, holding the captain’s armband for nearly ten years, before a brief stint at Glasgow’s Celtic. He recently entered the world of football management, and has had a so-far successful term at Sunderland since 2006.

Early Life

Roy Maurice Keane was born in Cork, Ireland, in 1971. His first sport was boxing, and he excelled in the fights he took part in, perhaps no surprise to those who’ve seen his dominant and aggressive nature when playing football. Keane played for local side Rockmount AFC at the time, and his promise as a footballer was highlighted when he turned out for trials with the Irish schoolboy squad. However, Keane was turned down for being too small. He took jobs involving manual labour in an attempt to build himself up. His efforts paid off and in 1989 he was signed to semi-professional side Cobh Ramblers. After impressing both players and fans, Keane was picked up by a Nottingham Forest scout, and taken to the club by the legendary Brian Clough. Keane quickly became a regular starter in the team, and was involved in two consecutive cup finals: the FA cup in 1991, and the league cup in 1992. Unfortunately, Forest lost both.

Club Career

United He Stood

In July 1993, Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson swooped, hijacking Keane’s proposed move to Blackburn Rovers at the last minute. Ferguson phoned the Irishman and persuaded him to be a part of a team that had just won the Premiership in style. Keane agreed, and United paid a new English transfer record of £3.75 million for the promising young midfielder. The season that followed couldn’t have gone any better for ‘Keano’, as he was nicknamed by United fans. After a blistering Premiership campaign, during which Keane helped himself to three goals, United won the title in 1994. Two weeks later the club won the FA Cup final, beating Chelsea 4-0 to secure a first ever double for the team.

The next season was less successful, and early evidence of Keane’s aggressive streak was seen against Crystal Palace, when he stamped on Gareth Southgate and received the first of his eventual 11 red cards accumulated whilst at United.

Captain Keano

In 1996, Keane again helped Manchester United to another double, and at the end of the next season, in which United successfully defended their Premiership title, he took over as the favoured team captain when the much loved Eric Cantona left the club. Keane spent most of his first season as captain in the stands after tearing the cruciate ligament in his knee. However, he worked hard to regain fitness for the 1998-1999 season, and led United throughout their most successful season ever. Keane propelled the team to a Premiership, FA Cup and UEFA Champions League treble, the first club in English football history to accomplish such a feat. However, in a cruel blow, Keane was forced to watch the incredibly tense European Cup final from the stands, after picking up a yellow card in the semi-final.

Keane was the inspiration and the driving force behind United’s success, and captained the club to four Premiership titles in five years, from 1999 through to 2001 and again in 2003. In 2000 Roy was named PFA Players’ Player of the Year. His tenacity and hard work meant he was arguably the most respected player in the Premiership.

The Infamous Prawn Sandwiches

In December 2000, Keane went on his most famous rant, criticising fans and team-mates for lacking a winning desire. After a Champions League win at Dynamo Kiev, Keane moaned about a lack of support from the crown.
“Away from home our fans are fantastic, I'd call them the hardcore fans. But at home they have a few drinks and probably the prawn sandwiches, and they don't realise what's going on out on the pitch.”

To this day corporate spectators at football matches are often labelled the ‘Prawn Sandwich Brigade’, a term coined by the media in reference to Keane’s comments. It describes those who get corporate tickets and, in his opinion, show little interest in the match itself.

‘Psycho’ Roy

The next few years brought success for Keane and United, but not without problems. Keane was often critical of team mates, accusing them of losing the motivational attitude that had won them the Champions League in 1999. In August 2003 he was at the centre of a media frenzy, after claiming in his autobiography that he deliberately injured Alf-Inge Haaland, a Manchester City player with whom Keane had a long running feud dating back to 1997. It was during the media storm that Keane elbowed Sunderland player Jason McAteer, prompting the media to brand him a ‘psycho’, not for the first time in his career. He was red-carded and suspended for eight matches in total.

Keane returned from suspension with a rejuvenated hip, the result of an operation on a long term injury which at first looked career-ending. Despite fears he wouldn’t have the same mobility and ferocity after the surgery, Keane was soon back to his best and led the squad to an eighth Premiership title the same season.

Keane To Move On

On 18 November 2005, Manchester United announced Keane’s unexpected departure. The move came after months of increasing tension between Keane and the United management and playing staff, after he had numerous arguments with Alex Ferguson and criticised other players' performances. Keane and United parted ways after 12 years of success, leaving fans with fond memories of a club legend who never stopped fighting to take United to the top again and again.

Nearly a month later, Keane signed for Celtic, a club he had longed to play at for most of his career. He proved he was still a force to be reckoned with, and put in several match winning performances for the team. However, he was still having huge problems with injury, and just six months later was forced to retire from professional football for medical reasons.

Playing Feuds

Keane vs Vieira

Roy had a long running feud with his midfield rival at Arsenal, Patrick Vieira. The two were famous for launching heated verbal attacks in games between United and Arsenal, and in one famous tunnel argument, Keane swore at Vieira live on television. The two had a competitive relationship and had a healthy but tumultuous rivalry.

Keane vs Inge Haaland

Perhaps the most bitter of Keane’s words were reserved for Alf Inge Haaland, a Manchester City player. The feud stretched back to 1997, when Keane tore his knee ligament whilst attempting to tackle the player. Haaland stood over Keane and accused him of faking injury to get away with the foul he’d tried to commit. Keane was livid, and four years later was sent off for a brutal tackle on Haaland which he has since admitted was intended to hurt the player. He was fined more than £150,000 and banned for eight matches overall.

International Career

Roy Keane had a dislike of the Irish national team’s organisation and set-up throughout his career, which led to numerous disagreements with various managers. His first row was with manager Jack Charlton during a tournament in the US, when they disagreed on playing style. However, Keane played every game in the USA World Cup of 1994, despite disagreements with Charlton.

Keane’s biggest bust-up was with the then Irish manager Mick McCarthy, during the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan. The Irish team was based on the small Pacific island of Saipan for the duration of their campaign, much to the annoyance of Roy. He wasn’t happy with the location, and criticised its inadequate training facilities. Tempers rose, and things came to a head after Keane gave a newspaper interview in which he severely insulted and berated McCarthy. The Irish manager dismissed him from the squad and sent him home, and the incident caused massive controversy in both Ireland and the UK.

Keane was recalled when McCarthy resigned, but failure to qualify for the 2006 World Cup was enough for the player, and he retired from international football soon after.

Managerial Career

Roy Keane went into management the season after his retirement from football. He linked up with former Republic of Ireland teammate Niall Quinn, chairman of Championship outfit Sunderland. Keane made some stellar signings, bringing, among others, former Celtic team-mates Ross Wallace and Stanislav Varga, as well as former Manchester United teammate Dwight Yorke, to the north-east club. His no-nonsense playing style seemed to apply to management as well, and when three players were late for the team coach to an away match, he left them behind. A dream season saw Keane take the Mackems to the top of the table and secure Premiership promotion. Keane continues to manage Sunderland in the Premiership.

Personal Life

Keane is married to Theresa Doyle, whom he met whilst playing at Nottingham Forest. They married in 1997 and have five children together. They live in Durham in the north-east of England.

Individual Honours

• FWA Footballer of the Year: 2000
• PFA Players’ Player of the Year: 2000

Player Statistics

Senior Club and National Team Statistics

Period	Team	Appearances (Goals)
1989-1990	Cobh Ramblers	12 (1)
1990-1993	Nottingham Forest	114 (22)
1993-2005	Manchester United	323 (33)
2005-2006	Celtic	10 (1)
1991-2005	Republic of Ireland	66 (9)

Glenn Hoddle

Full name: Glenn Hoddle
Date of birth: 27/10/1957

Arguably one of the greatest British players to have ever graced the hallowed turfs of the beautiful game, Hoddle was an attacking midfielder of the highest order, who had incredible vision to pass a ball and was gifted with the close ball control of a genius. Pivotal to the England squad for 9 years between 1979 - 1988, Hoddle then went on to manage the national team following retirement. His club career was also prolific. With Tottenham Hotspur he scored 110 goals in 499 appearances.

Career Highlights

Club Football
Glenn Hoddle began professional football with Tottenham Hotspur as a schoolboy apprentice in 1974, but it wasn't until August 1975 that he made his first team debut, as a substitute against Norwich in the cup. He made an explosive impact in his First Division game debut when he scored a spectacular strike, beating the England and Stoke City goalkeeper Peter Shilton.

The following season, Spurs were relegated to the Second Division for the first time in 27 years, but Hoddle proved an inspiration in guiding their immediate return to top flight football. By the 1979-80 campaign, Hoddle had burst onto the scene as one of the truly top class players around in British football. That season he was awarded PFA Young Player of the Year at the age of 22, having scored 19 times in 41 league appearances.

Hoddle hit the peak of his career the following year (1981) when he was fundamental to Spurs claiming the FA Cup. The following season, Hoddle assured their retention of the FA Cup, scoring in the final and also the replay. To top this off, Spurs also reached 4th place in the league the same season, attaining their best position since 1971. They also reached the semi-finals of the European Cup Winners Cup.

In 1984, Tottenham Hotspur triumphed by taking home the UEFA Cup and Hoddle was once again the cornerstone of this success. In a particularly memorable second round match against Feyenoord Rotterdam, he produced a phenomenal performance, containing the Dutch genius Johan Cruyff and leading Spurs to a pounding 6-2 victory. Hoddle lasted three more seasons of relative success with Spurs before being signed by Arsene Wenger who managed AS Monaco at the time. By the end of his time at Spurs, Hoddle had scored 110 goals in 490 first team appearances in all competitions.

Wenger brought Hoddle into French football, reportedly being particularly taken by his genius on the ball and his European-style creativity. In fact, on his exit from Spurs, Hoddle himself made the statement that he was going overseas where his creative style of play would be more appreciated by fellow players and managers. Hoddle did indeed experience great success in French football, helping Monaco to the 1988 Ligue 1 Championship and then to the quarter final stage of the European Cup the following year. Were it not for the serious knee injury that he obtained in 1990, he would have perhaps stayed in France, but at the age of 33 he left Monaco by mutual consent.

Returning home, Hoddle spent a brief time in a non-contractual agreement with Chelsea. He didn't have time to make one senior appearance for Chelsea however, before moving into the managerial phase of his career with Swindon Town.

International Football

Many pundits will argue that Glenn Hoddle never really realised his full potential on the international football arena. He was a skilful and creative player and often did not fit in well with the game-plan of many of the England managers of this period, who favoured hard work and a more physical game.

Hoddle made his debut for England in an Under-21 fixture against Wales in December 1976. It was not until November 1979 that he made his first team debut against Bulgaria. In the 1982 World Cup, he made appearances against Kuwait and Czechoslovakia but played a more important role in 1986 when England got as far as the quarter finals before being eliminated by Argentina.

Managerial Career

Hoddle's managerial career began with Swindon Town, which in 1991, was in the midst of a financial scandal. "The Robins" had been stripped of their promotion honours, due to serious financial illegalities that had earned the club considerable bad press and was beginning to affect their league form. Things began very well for Hoddle as he managed to prevent The Robins from dropping further into the Third Division. The following season, things continued to improve, as Swindon finished in ninth place, narrowly missing out on a play-off place. In 1993 Swindon were riding on two seasons of success and reached the new Division One play-offs. In the final, against considerable odds, they beat Leicester City F.C. 4-3 at Wembley and were subsequently promoted to the Premier League. As a result of his turning around Swindon, Hoddle was in demand from several major clubs, one of which was Chelsea.

He joined Chelsea as player-manager in 1993 and made 36 appearances for the side, despite his ripe old age of 36. His successful streak seemingly continued: Chelsea reached the FA Cup final, but they were thrashed 4-0 by Manchester United. Chelsea, however, were admitted to the Cup Winners Cup by default as Manchester United won the double that year and under Hoddle, they reached the semifinals, before being eliminated by eventual winners Real Zaragoza. In the 1995/6 season, he guided them once again into touching distance of silver ware. This time they were knocked out in the semi-finals of the FA Cup.

In 1996 Hoddle took the England job. All began well, as he assured their qualification for the 1998 FIFA World Cup Finals, securing their place in a 0-0 draw with Italy in Rome. The squad he took to France caused controversy, famously omitting Paul Gascoigne in favour of faith healer Eileen Drury and earning the team the name of "The God Squad" in the press. England were knocked out in the second round by Argentina, a match which included the famous dismissal of David Beckham from the field.

In the most bizarre of circumstances, Hoddle was sacked from the position of England manager in 1999. He came under fire for comments made in an interview with The Times newspaper in which he blamed disability on bad karma from actions in the past life. The uproar that followed this incident was considerable, Hoddle coming under vehement criticism from Tony Blair in a TV interview, with Blair stating that his comments were "very wrong" and that it "would be very difficult for him (Hoddle) to stay".

Glenn Hoddle continued to manage clubs after this obvious low-point in his career. In 2000 he joined Southampton, replacing Dave Jones as manager. He saved the Saints from relegation that season, but left in 2001 to return to Tottenham Hotspur, as the man in charge. In his first season he guided Spurs to the league cup final, which they lost 2-1 to Blackburn Rovers. The following season started well, but with Spurs' form deteriorating across the season and finishing in a mediocre 10th place, Hoddle fell short of the expectations of board and manager. In September 2003 he was sacked from the club he had served as a player for so many years.

Ever resilient, Hoddle bounced back in 2004 for another dose of management, with first division club Wolverhampton Wanderers. He was then fundamental in steadying a dangerously rocky boat at Wolves in the latter part of the 2004-5 season. Wolves began the following season strongly and were firm favourites for promotion. Disappointingly, they missed out on a play-off place, that being the minimum expected of them that season. Despite continued backing from the board, Hoddle chose to resign in July 2006. Since then, he has been working for Sky Sports, analysing games as a pundit.

Despite his mixed success as a manager and varied treatment as an individual in the press, Glenn Hoddle was a great and prolific football player and here is some Youtube footage of him with Tottenham Hotspur and England to prove so.

Individual Honours

• PFA Young Player of the Year: 1980

Player Statistics

Senior Club and National Team Statistics

Period	Team	Appearances (Goals)
1975-1987	Tottenham Hotspur	377 (88)
1987-1991	A.S. Monaco	69 (27)
1991-1993	Swindon Town	64 (1)
1993-1995	Chelsea	31 (1)

Kaká

Full name: Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite
Date of birth: 22/04/1982

Introduction

Brazil’s latest contribution to the pantheon of footballing greats, Kaká has arguably eclipsed his compatriot Ronaldinho as the greatest export in recent years. Both for AC Milan and the Seleção, his reputation has grown and grown, culminating in his eventual decisive contribution to the Italian side’s Champions League victory in 2007. While this may have proved his apex thus far, his general all-round play and remarkable goal-scoring record from deep, coupled with his relative youth, make him one of the best practitioners of the sport in the 21st century.

Career Overview

Early Career In Brazil

Born in the national capital of Brasilia, Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite was always a tremendous prospect. Developing his skills in the traditional Brazilian fashion on the streets, it wasn’t long before he made waves in the sport itself, signing a contract with São Paulo at just 15 years old (having been affiliated with the legendary side since the age of 8).

Starting out with the youth side, his impact was immediate as they picked up the Copa de Juvenil and a senior position beckoned. This duly arrived in 2001 and the young Kaká did not need a second chance, scoring consistently throughout his two seasons and even helping the club to the (now seemingly defunct) Torneio Rio-São Paulo championship in 2001.

His development physically and technically in such a short period made him a shoe-in for the national side and Kaká was duly called up for the Brazil side in 2002 against Bolivia. He also made his World Cup debut the same year, joining up with the squad and taking to the field in the tournament, although only for a cumulative 19 minutes. By 2003 though, he was getting greater recognition, reflected in his role as captain for Brazil’s Gold Cup campaign, which ended with defeat in the final and a tournament haul of three goals for Kaká personally.

As is the way, Europe’s finest clubs were put on alert by the young forward’s abilities. This makes it even more remarkable that AC Milan needed to stump up just $8.5 million for his signature in 2003, in contrast to the $40.5 million paid by Real Betis for Denilson in 1998.

The Milanese Phenomenon

Although AC Milan were the-then Champions League holders, Kaká was seemingly undaunted by the prospect of competing with the squad’s many stars. Within a month, he was entered into the first-team against Ancona and immediately impressed in their 2-0 victory. This trend continued throughout his debut season, as the golden boy notched up 10 goals and proved decisive in Milan picking up the Scudetto.

Established in the side as the withdrawn striker, the Brazilian’s form was carried through to the 2004/2005 campaign, although without the same success for the club itself. While Kaká was picking up headlines for his contribution throughout the tournament, AC Milan lost the Champions League final that season in Istanbul in exceptional circumstances to Liverpool on penalties, arguably beating themselves in an insane turnaround.

The disappointment of that defeat carried through the following season, although Kaká himself seemed to use it as incentive to double his efforts and impact. Established in the Brazilian side as a regular by now, his goal tally doubled in 2005/2006, finishing with 14 goals from his withdrawn position.

Coming off the back of such a great season, Kaká was seen as one of the main men to watch in the 2005 World Cup. However, with the entire Brazilian squad painfully off-form and in need of revitalisation, Kaká struggled to make an impact, as the side went out to France in the quarter-finals.

The disappointments seemed to come thick and fast, as club legend Andriy Shevchenko then departed that summer. Testifying to the Brazilian’s spirit though, this apparently only helped Kaká, as the side organically developed with him at its heart. Despite the club’s calamitous league campaign, destroyed by the blow of losing Shevchenko, their modern love affair with the Champions League continued that season, largely courtesy of Kaká. His deciding goal in the knock-out stages against Celtic and overall genius against Manchester United in the semi-final, not to mention his assist in the final, alerted the world to his incredible talents.

After AC Milan took revenge on Liverpool in the final 2-0, Kaká was flooded with plaudits. The Times named him the Best Player in the World, concurring with UEFA’s later assessment, declaring him the Club Footballer of the Year. The big accolades then followed, as Kaká first won the prestigious Ballon d’Or for 2007 and completed the double with the FIFA World Player of the Year, replacing Italy’s Fabio Cannavaro both times.

Now into his fifth season with the Milanese club, Kaká has remained focused and keeps banging in the goals. Whether he will remain in Italy is another matter though and, with Real Madrid having made very public announcements of their desire to sign the Brazilian, you can be certain that Kaká will be in the headlines plenty in the future.

Personal Life

The nickname Kaká refers to the phonology of his first name (Ricardo) but, more specifically, his little brother’s inability to pronounce Ricardo (opting instead for Caca, which soon became Kaká). His upbringing and religion remains a huge influence and it was little surprise that he began to pray after the final whistle in the 2006/2007 Champions League final. He is also a member of Atletas de Criso (Athletes of Christ) and serves as an Ambassador Against Hunger for the UN’s World Food Programme.

In stark contrast to playboy footballers, Kaká married his childhood sweetheart, Caroline Celico, on 23rd September 2005. The two are expecting their first child presently.

Honours And Accolades

Individual Honours

• IFFHS World’s Best Playmaker: 2007
• IAAF Latin Sportsman of the Year: 2007
• Onze d’Or: 2007
• Toyota Award: 2007
• FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball: 2007
• Ballon d’Or: 2007
• FIFPro World Player of the Year: 2007
• UEFA Vodafone Fans’ Player of the Season: 2007
• UEFA Club Footballer of the Year: 2007
• UEFA Club Forward of the Year: 2007
• UEFA Champions League Top Scorer: 2007
• FIFPro World XI: 2006, 2007
• UEFA Team of the Year: 2006, 2007
• UEFA Champions League Best Midfielder: 2005
• Serie A Footballer of the Year: 2004, 2007
• Serie A Foreign Footballer of the Year: 2004, 2006, 2007
• Serie A Young Footballer of the Year: 2003
• CONCACAF Gold Cup Best XI: 2003
• Campeonato Brasileiro Bola de prate (best player by position): 2002
• Revista Placar Bola de Ouro: 2002

Player Statistics

Senior Club and National Team Statistics

Period	Team	Appearances (Goals)
2001-2003	São Paulo	59 (23)
2003-present	A.C. Milan	162 (54)
2002-present	Brazil	59 (22)

Sir Geoff Hurst

Full name: Sir Geoffrey Charles Hurst
Date of birth: 08/12/1941

“They think it’s all over… it is now!” These few words, spoken by commentator Kenneth Wolstenholme, have become immortalised in English football. They relate, of course, to Sir Geoff Hurst, and his final goal in the 1966 World Cup Final.

The Beginning

Hurst was born in 1941 in Ashton-Under-Lyne, Lancashire. At the age of eight, Hurst’s family moved to Chelmsford, Essex. This was to be the place where Hurst’s career developed.
Hurst’s early development as a footballer is partly down to his Father, a lower-division footballer whom he looked up to as a youngster.

Hurst first played for his primary school, Kings Cross and then went on to play for a Sunday side, Chipstead. It was playing for Chipstead which led to West Ham scouting the young Geoff Hurst. In 1959, aged 18, he turned professional.

Football or Cricket?

It has been said that some people are born with all the talent, and that was certainly the case for Geoff Hurst. During his early days as a West Ham player, he also represented the Essex County Cricket side. Hurst made only one first class appearance and several second XI appearances. In 1964 Hurst decided to hang up his bat and focus solely on his football. Following this decision Hurst’s football career underwent a dramatic change in fortunes.

West Ham United

After signing professional terms with the Hammers in 1959, Hurst became an ever present player in West Ham's starting eleven. He spent thirteen years at Upton Road, making 411 appearances and scoring 180 goals.

In his first few years as a West Ham player, Hurst played in central midfield. When Ron Greenwood took over though, he converted Hurst to the position of centre-forward for which he is known today.

1964 saw Hurst record his first honour as a footballer when he was among the scorers as West Ham won 3-2 at Wembley. The following year, Hurst once again featured at Wembley as West Ham lifted the European Cup Winners Cup. The Hammers beat 1860 Munich 2-0. Hurst would never again win a domestic trophy, but international honours were just around the corner.

Nineteen Sixty-Six

February ’66 saw Hurst receive his first international call up. Little did Hurst know just how quickly his England career would progress.

Hurst was named in the 22-man World Cup squad for the finals in England. As the group games progressed though, it became evident that Hurst was not in Alf Ramsey’s plans. Jimmy Greaves and Roger Hunt were favoured, and they started all three group games. In the final group game against France, Greaves picked up an injury and it was this that led to Hurst’s inclusion in the knockout stages, as England progressed to the final.

Greaves returned from injury for the final but Ramsey refused to be swayed by the English public and opted for Hurst to partner Hunt up front. In 1966 substitutes were not allowed and so Greaves was to play no part in the World Cup Final.

Ramsey’s decision quickly paid dividends as Hurst levelled, following West Germany’s early opener. Fellow Hammer Martin Peters put England ahead, before the Germans forced extra-time at Wembley.

The first period of extra time saw Hurst smash a shot against the bar; the ball bounced down and was headed away by a German defender. The linesman, however, signalled that the ball had crossed the line. Amidst controversial circumstances, the referee allowed the goal to stand. As the Germans pushed for an equaliser late on, a long clearance over the top from Bobby Moore found Hurst. Hurst’s left foot shot flew into the net, leaving Wolstenholme to utter those famous words.

To this day, Hurst is still the only player to have scored a hat-trick in a World Cup Final although some people dispute this fact since Hurst’s hat-trick goal was scored in extra-time.

Post West Ham

Manchester United are rumoured to have bid £200,000 for Hurst in 1968, but West Ham rejected the bid. Hurst eventually left the bright lights of London in 1972 and headed for Stoke where he spent three years playing for Stoke City. During his time at City he made 108 appearances, netting 30 times. Following his spell with Stoke City, Hurst stayed in the Midlands, moving to West Bromwich Albion. A brief season with the Baggies was followed by a move to the United States. Hurst spent just one season in America, where he played for Seattle Sounders. Following 9 goals in 24 appearances, Hurst spent time in Kuwait and then with Cork City. He retired as a player in 1976. Looking back on his career, it is evident that Hurst never matched the highs at any of the clubs he played for, following his days as a West Ham player.

After Retirement

Like so many ex-professional players, upon his retirement, Hurst moved into coaching. Danny Blanchflower brought Hurst in as his assistant manager at Chelsea in the 1979-80 season. Blanchflower was sacked months later and Hurst stepped into the hot seat. Hurst spent two seasons in charge of the then, Second Division Chelsea. In both seasons, Chelsea made great starts but both times failed to gain promotion. In April 1981, Hurst was sacked and following his dismissal from Chelsea, never took charge of another team.

Hurst was decorated in 1975 with an MBE for his World Cup winning hat-trick. More recently in 1998 he was knighted Sir Geoff Hurst, by the Queen.

Hurst has since been involved in business, particularly in the insurance industry. He is currently Director of Football for McDonalds, the fast food chain. Hurst has also been greatly in demand as a motivational speaker and a pundit, although less so in recent years.

Sir Geoffrey Charles Hurst is married and has three daughters. He lives in Weybridge in Surrey.

Honours

• 1959: First Professional Contract
• 1964: FA Cup Winner
• 1965: European Cup Winners Cup Winner
• 1966: World Cup Winner
• 1975: Awarded MBE
• 1998: Knighted Sir Geoff Hurst.

Individual Honours

• Awarded an MBE: 1975
• Knighted as Sir Geoff Hurst: 1998

Player Statistics

Senior Club and National Team Statistics

Period	Team	Appearances (Goals)
1959-1972	West Ham United	411 (180)
1972-1975	Stoke City	108 (30)
1975-1976	West Bromwich Albion	10 (2)
1976	Seattle Sounders	24 (9)
1976	Cork Celtic	5 (3)
1966-1972	England	49 (24)