Made his debut in a 2-0 home win over West Ham United in January 1996, but it wasn't until the 1998/99 season that he really became a true first team regular.

His determination, fitness, dead-ball skills and passing mark him out as one of the best full-backs in the Premiership. However, he has been let down by his lack of pace from time to time and is that reason he will never be one of the greatest.

Under the stewardship of David O'Leary, he became a vital part of United's exciting young side, playing alongside his uncle, Gary Kelly.

His trademark free-kicks have become the stuff of legends at Elland Road, and while many pundits claim he as skills in such situations as David Beckham, the Leeds fans will tell you he is better.

The Republic of Ireland international travelled to the 2002 World Cup finals, but he struggled and was substituted in all four of his country's games.

Missed a penalty against Spain in the second round, but was reprieved when Leeds team-mate Robbie Keane slotted in a second spot-kick in the dying seconds. The Republic would still go out in a shoot-out.