The 25-year-old has been prone to moments of dire defending, most notably in the 2-2 draw with Nigeria in Southampton last October.

But since then, the Marinos captain has become a much more assured right back.

He has proved himself at major tournament level before, impressing at the Olympic Games in 1996.

A popular figure with coach Philippe Troussier and strong at closing players down, he looks certain to continue as a regular starter.