22. John O'Shea

Match-winning striker, full-back, midfielder, even goalkeeper – United’s utility player has done it all.

A shining example of selflessness and professionalism, John O’Shea has been ever-willing in his service of United. Whether coming on from the bench or in the starting line-up, he is ready for the fight from the second his boots touch the turf.

In his first full season, 2002/03, O’Shea was an absolute revelation at left-back: galumphing up and down the wing, effortlessly picking the pockets of opponents who ran at him, cheekily nutmegging those who tried to stop him – most notably Luis Figo – he was one of the star men as United regained the Premiership.

Sadly, as so often happens with young stars in their second season, O’Shea’s gradient levelled off throughout 2003/04. And when United bought Gaby Heinze in the summer of 2004, he had to look to other positions than left-back for regular action.

Thankfully, O’Shea has the tools to play pretty much anywhere. He was always a footballing defender, blessed with beautiful balance, crisp passing and formidable upper-body strength, and that enabled him to slip into midfield as well as anywhere across the back four.

Position:	Defender/Midfielder
Appearances:	255
Goals:	12
Joined United:
Transfer Fee:	None
Previous Clubs:	None
United Debut:	13 Oct 1999 v Aston Villa (A)
International	Rep of Ireland