He has an abundance of natural skill, especially when he is taking on opponents with his often deceptively lazy gait. Really started to fulfill his potential in Spain during the summer of 2000 and won a regular place in the side.

Macca then fell out of favour at Real with the arrival of a new manager who declared he was surplus to requirements. However, the midfielder stayed in Spain, fought hard and eventually won over his manager and his place in the team.

He helped Real to become European Champions in 2000 and scored a goal in Madrid's 3-0 victory over Spanish rivals Valencia in the final.

Made his England debut in November 1994 against Nigeria but didn't score his first international goal until nearly 5 years later against Luxembourg.

After appearing to be out of the race for a place in the final World Cup France 1998 squad McManaman got a late call from Glenn Hoddle to play.

Playing in the free role, as he does for Real, in a friendly against Ukraine gave him the chance to explore the turf of Wembley but Macca is usually played out of position - on the left wing - for England.

Was selected by Kevin Keegan for Euro 2000 and scored a sweet half-volley against Portugal in the first game of the Championships but needs to improve his international goal tally.

His experience of playing in Europe will surely be an asset to England manager Sven Goran Eriksson.

He was selected in Eriksson's squad to face Spain in February, 2001, but injury ruled Macca out of the game. Started England's World Cup qualifier against Finland, on the left-wing and helped left-back Chris Powell out of some sticky situations as the Three Lions roared to a 2-1 victory.

Followed that performance with a disappointing outing in England's World Cup qualifier against Albania. Was unable to inject a spark in attack and was replaced by Emile Heskey.