The ability, consistency and reliability of Italian left-back Paolo Maldini is undoubtably proved by the fact that he managed to become the most capped player of a country that prides itself in the art of defence.

The mainstay of Italy's back four for well over a decade, Maldini captained and lead his country by example before retiring from the international stage following the 2002 World Cup. In total he made 126 international appearances, scoring seven goals.

Elegant and composed, Maldini was unable to enjoy the same level of success at international level that he enjoyed during his club career, his high point being an appearance in the 1994 World Cup Final defeat to Brazil. Defeat on penalties there, as well as the crushing loss to Argentina in 1990 semi-final in Italy meant Maldini was a thwarted World Cup hero.

However it says much about this predominantly right-footed left-back that at the age of 37 he is still playing at the very highest level for AC Milan, confirmed by his inclusion in the FIFPro World XI in 2005 and a top-ten finish in the voting for the 2005 FIFA World Player of the Year.