July 2, 2004
Mid-field Generals
Johan Neeskens of The Netherlands
For most of his career, Neeskens played in the shadow of the legendary Johan Cruyff.
He may have been less skillful, but Neeskens was as crucial a component to Rinus Michels' "total football" revolution as his celebrated teammate.
A hard-working midfielder, Neeskens could usually be found directing play somewhere in the middle. But he was also happy to rotate with forwards as the system dictated, as well as provide vital cover and ball-winning aggression in front of the Dutch defense.
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