Signed by George Graham from Queen's Park Rangers, Seaman's commanding presence and organisational skills have been vital to Arsenal's legendary defensive discipline.

Actually began his career with Leeds United as an apprentice before having spells with Peterborough United and Birmingham City.

Has won championship medals, FA and League Cup winners medals and enjoyed European glory during his time in North London.

With the self-styled nickname 'Safe Hands', Seaman has been a mainstay at Arsenal for over a decade but, with errors finally starting to creep into his game, he faced challenges for the No.1 jersey with club and country.

Made his England debut in November 1988 against Saudi Arabia but had to compete, mainly with Peter Shilton and Chris Woods, until he became a regular under Terry Venables, Glenn Hoddle, Kevin Keegan and Sven Goran Eriksson.

Has over 60 caps for England and is still first-choice keeper due to experience.

Lowest point of his club career was being lobbed from the half-way line by former Spurs player Nayim in the 1995 Cup Winners' Cup final but he achieved national hero status for his penalty saves at Euro '96 against Scotland and Spain.

Had an excellent Euro 2000 in Holland and Belgium but missed England's final game against Romania through injury.

Sven Goran Eriksson left Seaman out of his first squad that played a friendly against Spain in February 2001 but said this was because he already new about the goalkeeper's ability.

Seaman returned to the squad for England's World Cup 2002 qualifying campaign against Finland despite doubts over an injured back. He recovered in time to play the match and made a great save in the dying seconds to secure all three valuable points for England.

During the 2002 World Cup he was rock solid from the word 'go' and England's man of the match as they struggled to a draw in the 1-1 opening match with Sweden. Pulled off a crucial block to deny Argentina a point in the Sapporo Dome and a typically calming influence in the final group match against Nigeria.

In top form against Denmark but was caught off his line for Brazil's second goal as England lost 2-1. Ronaldinho's mis-hit free-kick found the top corner as one the best keepers in the tournament was caught out and England travelled home.

The signing of young England goalkeeper Richard Wright from Ipswich Town during the summer of 2001 suggested Seaman's days were numbered, but the Yorkshireman saw off the challenge and Wright joined Everton just a year later.