Rio Ferdinand - maturing all the time (Allsport).

Position: Defender
Born: 07.11.78
Club: Leeds United

Britain's most expensive defender, Ferdinand is now making a regular England place his own with some superb displays.

Brilliant talent who is good in the air and superb on the ground - the perfect all-round defender.

Began his career with West Ham and almost immediately became one of the hottest properties around.

Was coveted by all the top clubs after proving his class and ability at Upton Park.

But there was still some surprise when Leeds United paid a whopping £18million for his services late in 2000.

Many people questioned David O'Leary's sanity following the transfer, but the Irishman has since been proved right.

If anything the move to Elland Road seems to have improved Ferdinand no end - and that transfer fee almost looks like a bargain now.

Whereas at West Ham Ferdinand appeared prone to lapses in concentration at times he has really come of age since his move to West Yorkshire.

That growing maturity has seen his handed the captaincy at Elland Road, and now he's becoming a fixture at the heart of the England defence.

Made his international debut against Cameroon in 1997, just eight days after he turned 19.

Superb footballer who is now better equipped to deal with the physical demands of playing centre-half.

The footballing central defender England will need this summer, and the perfect foil for Sol Campbell.

Rio was selected for the Wembley friendly against Cameroon in 1997 (won 2-0), just eight days after his nineteenth birthday. This stylish defender's 19 internationals to date have included 14 starts and five substitute appearances.