Eric Cantona

Cantona had developed a reputation as something of a flawed genius during his career in France, often brilliant on the pitch but with a suspect temperament both on and off the field. A member of the Montpellier team that won the 1990 French Cup, he moved across the Channel during the 1991-92 campaign signing for Leeds United in February 1992. He was an immediate success at Elland Road, providing a major contribution in the run-in to their title success that season. Revered by the club's fans, it was a major surprise when he was sold to United the following November, but manager Alex Ferguson certainly didn't complain. It was at Old Trafford that Cantona finally revealed his full potential and led to him being held in almost God-like status by the supporters. He was the catalyst who convinced his colleagues that they could win everything. His influence on the club's young players is still felt today, as training and practice patterns changed radically at his behest. The enfant terrible of French football found his spiritual home at Old Trafford, where all eyes were on the charismatic striker. The crowd gave him the title 'The King' previously only owned by Denis Law or 'Le Dieu' - Cantona responded brilliantly leading United to success after unprecedented success. He hit national headlines in January 1995 after he snapped under pressure in the match against Crystal Palace, leading to a notorious confrontation with a Palace follower. A lengthy ban followed and his career in the top flight looked over. However he was eventually rehabilitated, returning to his brilliant best to assist United to two more Premiership titles. A forward player with the deft skills to unlock any defence, he was full of tricks and capable not only of setting up his colleagues but scoring with some spectacular strikes himself. Cantona retired from the game in the summer of 1997 but has maintained strong links with his former boss while spending much of his time promoting the game of beach football.