Ten Top Manchester United World Cup Players

Disclaimer: This isn’t a top 10, just a selection of past and, in two cases, current Manchester United players who I think are worthy of a mention for their World Cup finals record. Did I miss anyone?

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 teammates 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 and 1986 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 quarterfinal against Argentina and the knockout 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 semifinal against Portugal, and still the top marksman with 49 in 106 games. 

Coming soon: Ten Top Arsenal World Cup Players

For the series visit http://worldcupbafanabafana2010.blogspot.com/p/ten-top-world-cup-players.html