Shy and reserved, the Manchester United star has scored some crucial goals for his country from midfield, and his two against Scotland in the Euro 2000 play-off effectively won the tie for Kevin Keegan's side.

Many believe Scholes is the man who can slot into the creative void left by Paul Gascoigne, and he also offers England an option in attack should Keegan choose to change things round up-front.

Scholes made his international debut against South Africa in 1996, and belies his years with his intelligent positioning and outstanding range of passing.