It’s funny how things change, isn’t it? Ashley Cole was initially one of our most unpopular signings ever when he arrived from the Marble Halls of Mordor as part of the William Gallas deal in 2008.

Barcelona midfielder Xavi has risked infuriating Arsenal by expressing his ambition to play with Cesc Fabregas at the Nou Camp and claiming his Spain team-mate has “Barca DNA”.

England goalkeeper David James will refuse the opportunity to have a defender alongside him on the goalline to combat the threat of Luis Figo’s free-kicks against Portugal tonight.