All-Time Football World XI

In the past few days, there has been much speculation about Lionel Messi's place in the pantheon of great footballers, and indeed whether he merits a place in a fantasy all-time world team.

For what it is worth, and just as a bit of fun, I thought that I would detail my chosen line-up. This is based on what I have seen, read and heard over the years.


Goalkeeper  - Dino Zoff

The great Italian just gets in over Gordon Banks and Lev Yashin, mainly by virtue of his longevity at the top level, and his consistent performances on the world stage. By modern standards Zoff was quite an unobstrusive goalkeeper, but he always seemed to inspire confidence in the defenders in front of him.

Right-Back  -  Cafu

When looking at options for this position, the cupboard was surprisingly bare, but this elegant Brazilian is a worthy choice.  An adequate rather than outstanding defensive player, perhaps, but he more than compensates with his other qualities. Great going forward and linking up with colleagues.

Left-Back   -  Paolo Maldini

The obvious choice for this slot, beating off the likes of Nilton Santos, Ruud Krol and Paul Breitner. Outstandingly consistent and reliable,  and dangerous in the air at set-pieces. Could also be a very accomplished central defender if required.

Central Defence   -  Franco Baresi

The defensive unit would be anchored by the redoubtable Baresi.  Not the most demonstrative of players, but a fierce competitor with an uncanny ability to read the game.  He just edges out Bobby Moore for this role.

Central Defence/Sweeper   -  Franz Beckenbauer

My team would be captained by the majestic Beckenbauer.  An ability to direct operations, and also to augment the attack, were his main strengths.  He could also act as a flexible central midfielder.

Central Midfield  -  Lothar Matthaus

Many players have possessed more flair than the German, but few could match his will to win and his work-rate. A regular goalscorer, he could also act as a libero if called upon. Matthaus would act as the fulcrum for the attacking talent around him.

Central Midfield  -  Michel Platini

An ideal foil for the doggedness and energy of Matthaus would be this graceful and talented Frenchman.  Midfield creator, brilliant at set-pieces, and an eye for goal.

Attacking Midfield  -  Johan Cruyff

The Dutchman's versatility and creativity would be a valuable asset.  He was able to come deep and dictate play, as well as getting on the end of other people's passes and crosses.  In my team, Cruyff would have a free role, and a roving brief.

Attacking Midfield  -  Diego Maradona

The mercurial Argentinian would have a role similar to that of Cruyff, able to roam the field without worrying about other responsibilities. Almost a one-man team in himself, he could create space for others to exploit.

Striker  -  Pele

The all-round talents of Pele would be integral to this team. In my line-up he would play as the second striker, linking up with the other creative players, as well as seeking out goalscoring opportunities for himself. His aerial power would also be a great asset.

Striker  -  Gerd Muller

Perhaps the most contentious choice in my selection, but Muller gets in because of his extraordinary scoring record at both club and international levels. In a team with such creative panache, there would be always be plenty of "scraps" to feast upon, and nobody was better at capitalising on these opportunities than the diminutive German.

I would have an old-fashioned five-man substitutes bench, occupied by the following:

Lev Yashin
Bobby Moore
Zinedine Zidane
Alfredo Di Stefano
Marco Van Basten

A team to be reckoned with, I think!