Nicky Butt

A hard-working and tough tackling midfielder, Nicky always endeavours to complete his task with the minimum of fuss, be it for club or country.

Often a unsung hero, although may be not always attracting the attention thrust up on some of his colleagues, he has taken the responsibility in his stride when more high profile names have been absent from Manchester United's middle line.

Having signed pro forms at Old Trafford on the same 1993 date as David Beckham, he now has a wealth of big match experience whilst earning the games' major honours.

Nicky made his England debut in the friendly match with Mexico at Wembley in 1997.

Although not assured to be in the starting XI as England went out to Japan and South Korea, he proved to be Sven-Goran Eriksson's most effective player in the 2002 World Cup finals.

Nicky's transfer request was granted by Manchester United in January 2004 but he withdrew it two months later.

He went on to join Newcastle United in July 2004 with a four-year contract.

Often seen as the unsung hero, Nicky brought his proven midfield skills to Tyneside at the end of his trophy-laden career with Manchester United.

His Toon contract was extended to June 2009 in December 2007 and to June 2010 in January 2009.