Michael Owen

Michael Owen is one of England's most celebrated strikers of his era, scoring 40 goals in 89 international appearances and becoming one of the youngest players to represent the senior national team. His 1998 World Cup goal against Argentina, a searing solo run from the halfway line, remains one of the most famous moments in England's tournament history. He went on to score in four consecutive major tournaments, a record for England at the time of his retirement.

Born in Chester on 14 December 1979, Owen joined Liverpool's youth academy and made his first-team debut aged 17. He won the Premier League Golden Boot twice in his first two seasons, and was central to Liverpool's treble-winning side in 2001, scoring two late goals to win the FA Cup final against Arsenal. He was awarded the 2001 Ballon d'Or, the first English player to win the award since Kevin Keegan in 1979. After leaving Liverpool he played for Real Madrid, Newcastle United, Manchester United and Stoke City before retiring in 2013.

Owen's career was significantly shaped by persistent injury, particularly to his hamstrings and cruciate ligaments. The explosive pace that defined his best years faded after a serious knee injury at the 2006 World Cup. He retired at 33 having scored 158 goals in 297 appearances for Liverpool alone, his legacy somewhat coloured by what might have been had his physical fitness held.