5. Nigel Clough
After overcoming claims of nepotism, Clough jr proved himself to be an exceptionally talented striker. Short on pace but high on intelligence, he could also fill in in midfield and even in the heart of the defence. Only sidelined at Liverpool thanks to the emergence of Robbie Fowler.
4. Dirk Kuyt
Frequently billed as a workhorse, Kuyt often doesn’t get the credit he deserves for being a big game player. His contribution to Liverpool’s path to the Champions League final in 2007-08 was huge, and he became the ultimate team player over the years.
3. Stan Collymore
He may not be on many people’s list of favourites these days thanks to his outspoken views on Twitter, but there’s no denying that he was an absolutely electric striker in the 90s. One of the most deadly English strikers of the past 20 years, he couldn’t translate his club form over to international football, and depression gradually ate up his career.
2. Alessandro Costacurta
Alongside Franco Barasi, Paolo Maldini and Mauro Tassoti, he made up a key component of arguably the greatest defensive unit the game has ever seen. What’s more, is that he made over 450 appearances for AC Milan over a 20 year period. Highly decorated, but often overlooked thanks to the names mentioned alongside him.
1. Michael Carrick
One of the most intelligent and technically gifted players England has ever produced, it is borderline criminal that he has only collected 33 caps for the England national side. United struggle when he’s not in the team, and despite his advancing years he still highlights just how important he is to the cause.
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