Mark Rankine

Mark Rankine spent four seasons as a virtual ever-present at Wolverhampton Wanderers playing in a variety of positions before signing for Preston North End in September 1996 for £100,000. A hamstring injury hampered his performances and he was transfer listed in the summer of 1997. He forced his way into the first team before a DIY accident suffered in December forced him onto the sidelines. He only missed four matches in the 1998-99 campaign and in the process played his 450th senior match. A similar story in 1999-2000 season saw him record his 400th League match and 500th senior game (FA Cup against Bristol Rovers), and forge a great partnership with Sean Gregan which led the team to the Second Division title. Always giving 100 per cent, he remained a first choice in central midfield throughout 2000-01 indeed no other player has played as often under manager David Moyes. Other milestones included marking his 550th senior appearance with a win at Fulham in October and playing his 200th game for North End on New Year's Day.

Rankine joined Tranmere Rovers in July 2004 on a one-year contract that was extended to June 2006 in July 2005. However, this was cancelled in April 2006.