Gordon Strachan: 1982 and 1986 for Scotland
His most famous World Cup goal in 1986 was followed by what could have been a disastrous attempt to vault an advertising hoarding in celebration. The vertically challenged Strachan wisely chose to put his foot on the hoarding instead before inviting his team mates to celebrate his goal.
Roy Keane: 1994 but definitely not 2002 for the Republic of Ireland
The Republic’s best player in 1994 had a long history of frustration with his country’s preparations for major tournaments. We’ll never know what he could have achieved in 2002 if he’d kept his thoughts about coach Mick McCarthy to himself.
Gary Neville: 1998 and 2006 for England
Holds the record for the most England appearances by a right back (85).
Denis Law: 1974 for Scotland and the unofficial World Cup in 1967
Played just one game in an actual World Cup (against Zaire in 1974) but scored against England in 1967 during a 3 – 2 victory which saw the Scots crown themselves unofficial World Cup champions.
Paul Scholes: 1998 and 2002 for England
With 14 goals in 66 games this rampaging midfielder’s decision to retire from international football aged just 29 was widely regarded as a setback for England.
Norman Whiteside: 1982 and 1986 for Northern Ireland
Still the youngest player to appear in a World Cup at the age of 17 years and 41 days (Spain 1982).
Nobby Stiles: 1966 for England
Forever immortalised in the “Three Lions” song for his victory jig at Wembley in 1966.
Bryan Robson: 1982, 1986 and 1990 for England
Known as Captain Fantastic for his dynamic performances, Robson holds the record for the fastest England goal in a World Cup game (27 seconds against France in 1982). Sadly his World Cup chances were limited as injuries forced him to miss crucial games such as the 1986 quarter final against Argentina and the knock out stages in 1990.
David Beckham: 1998, 2002 and 2006 for England
Now the record holder for the most caps held by an outfield player, Beckham’s England career oscillated wildly between hero and villain status. This is why he will probably be best remembered for the sending off against Argentina in 1998 and the successful penalty against the same team four years later.
Bobby Charlton: 1962, 1966 and 1970 for England
Scorer of some memorable England goals, including two in the 1966 semi final against Portugal, and still the top marksman with 49 in 106 games.
Coming soon: Ten Top Arsenal World Cup Players
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