Johnny Carey vs Wim Suurbier
Ireland against Netherlands. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Johnny Carey
Ireland · 1937–1953 · RB
- Almanac rating
- 89
- Rank in Ireland
- #3 of 33
- Caps
- 29 · 3 goals
- Clubs
- Manchester United, Shamrock Rovers, Everton
Nine different positions bore his name on Manchester United teamsheets, goalkeeper included, yet it was as captain that he lifted the FA Cup after the celebrated 4-2 final against Blackpool in 1948. The First Division title of 1952 followed, along with the 1949 Footballer of the Year award and the honour of captaining the Rest of Europe XI at Hampden in 1947. Career record: 29 caps and 3 goals for Ireland; club career at Manchester United, Shamrock Rovers, Everton.
Wim Suurbier
Netherlands · 1974–78 · RB
- Almanac rating
- 89
- Rank in Netherlands
- #19 of 33
- Caps
- 60 · 3 goals
- Clubs
- AFC Ajax, FC Metz, Los Angeles Aztecs
A marauding full-back in Ajax's 'Total Football' dynasty, he played in both the 1974 and 1978 World Cup finals. Career record: 60 caps and 3 goals for Netherlands; club career at AFC Ajax, FC Metz, Los Angeles Aztecs.
The verdict
The almanac cannot separate them: both are rated 89.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.