No British players in these five. But what do they have in common?

Ryan Giggs

An undisputed member of the Premiership’s top five left-footers club (yes, that’s what these players have in common), Giggs has little time for his other leg. He is often praised for what is called his ability to keep the ball close to his feet, but it should really be “foot”. His famous goal against Arsenal in the 1999 FA Cup semi-final replay was a case in point. But with a left foot like that, who needs any extra help?

Patrik Berger

Anyone doubting the effectiveness and beauty of a Berger bullet with his left foot should remember how referee Mike Reed reacted to one such example last February. As the Czech midfielder’s effort rippled the Anfield net, the official was seen to raise his fist in triumph. Reed explained that he was congratulating himself for having allowed play to continue shortly beforehand, but he was clearly appreciating Berger’s precious left peg.

Davor Suker

Real Madrid were awash with left-footers in Suker’s time there but he was the most left-footed of the lot. Still, he only needed one working instep to succeed with them and with Croatia, for whom he is the record goalscorer. Peter Schmeichel probably knew what was coming when Suker chipped him at Euro 96; last year, though, Coventry seemed to have averted danger by forcing him onto his right side but, body contorted, he still scored with his left.

Georgi Kinkladze

Kinkladze is another whose right boot suffers little wear and tear during matches. His obsessive use of his left foot may explain why he often ran round in circles with the ball at Manchester City. After an initial period at Pride Park when he was in and out of the side, the Georgian who scores few but creates plenty seems now to have the faith of Derby manager Jim Smith. Certainly the fans adore him, however much he ignores his right foot.

Harry Kewell

Unlike Kinkladze, Kewell does occasionally acknowledge the existence of his right foot, but all his best work is done at the opposite side of his body. An excellent crosser from the left flank, the Australian heart-throb ensured that Leeds’s first goal of the Millennium will be remembered for some time by walloping the ball home from 35 yards against Aston Villa at Elland Road — with his trusty left foot, of course.