Beckham celebrates that golden goal against Greece.

Position: Midfield
Born: 02.05.75
Club: Manchester United

Inspirational skipper who has been a virtual fixture in the England team since making his debut in a World Cup qualifier in Moldova way back in 1997.

Took over the captaincy after Kevin Keegan's departure as manager late in 2000, and has moved his play up to another level for his country.

His sensational performance in the crucial clash with Greece, capped by the last-gasp free-kick which booked England's finals berth, was just brilliant.

The last World Cup finals were anything but joyous for the Manchester United man though, and he'll be looking to make amends in the Far East.

In France '98 he was left out of the opening game by coach Glenn Hoddle, and was later sent off against Argentina as England went out on penalties.

He was pilloried after that incident, but came back even stronger to help Manchester United to that famous Treble in 1998-99.

Beckham was one of England's few plusses in a disappointing Euro 2000 campaign, but now there seems genuine cause for optimism under Sven-Goran Eriksson.

With Manchester United Beckham has won just about everything there is to win, and has piled up stacks of big-game experience.

Began his career on the right of midfield for United, and still plays there most weeks at club level.

But his preferred position is in a more central role, and he's starting to get that spot more for England.

Brilliant from free-kicks anywhere near the opposition goal, and a superb crosser of a ball.

Has a fantastic right foot and is one of the best passers of a ball in Europe.

Really maturing now and this summer's World Cup finals could be the pinnacle of his career so far.

Also famous for being married to Spice Girl Victoria Adams.

Britain's current Sports Personality of the Year.