The hard player: Roberto Soldado
Roberto Soldado was born on 27 May 1985 in Valencia, Spain. He began his career at Real Madrid Castilla, firing in 69 goals in 132 matches – the hallmark of a natural finisher. His subsequent path through La Liga confirmed that reputation, with productive spells at Getafe (33 goals in 66 matches) and Granada (25 goals in 82 matches).
At Valencia CF, his home club, he reached his peak: 82 goals in 141 matches. His time at Tottenham Hotspur brought 16 goals in 76 appearances, his most high-profile stint outside Spain. With the Spanish under-17 side, he netted 12 goals in 18 matches – a ratio that says it all about this clean, clinical, relentless striker.
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PlayThe medium player: Sylvain Distin
Born on 16 December 1977 in Bagnolet, France, Sylvain Distin is a French defender who made England his home. His career started with Paris Saint-Germain (45 appearances) and Gueugnon (41 appearances, 1 goal) before he crossed the Channel and never looked back.
At Manchester City he made 206 appearances and scored 6 goals, then clocked up 96 matches at Portsmouth, before finishing his career at Everton with an impressive 210 appearances and 5 goals. A rock-solid English career built on consistency and endurance.
The easy player: Rio Ferdinand
Rio Ferdinand was born on 7 November 1978 in Camberwell, London. A central defender, he made 158 appearances for West Ham United before moving to Leeds United for 73 more matches. Manchester United then came calling, and that’s where the big numbers racked up: 455 appearances and 8 goals with the Red Devils.
Towards the end of his career, he signed for Queens Park Rangers (12 matches) before heading to Bournemouth on loan for 10 appearances. He also represented England at under-18 level, earning 7 caps. A career built on durability and defensive excellence.