The Perfect 10: Dreamers, schemers, playmakers and playboys: the men who wore football's magic number

Description

Puskas of Hungary in the '50s; Pele of Brazil and Gianni Rivera of Italy in the '60s; Platini of France in the '70s; Diego Maradona of Argentina in the '80s; Baggio and Zidane in the '90s. The most magical, supremely talented footballers of the post-war period have all worn the Number 10 shirt. Puskas presided over the regal Real Madrid side that won five consecutive European Cups between 1955 and 1960 and like his fellow number 10s in the football hall of fame and infamy, shares the uncanny ability to transcend the role of mere 'player'. The terms 'inside forward', 'playmaker' or fantasista fail to capture the instinct for genius that characterises all great Number 10s. In ten mini-biographical essays on some of the greatest players the world has ever seen Richard Williams explores the astonishing creative influence of the most celebrated players to wear the shirt and recreates some of the most memorable moments witnessed on a football field.

Richard Williams writes for The Guardian. His previous books include Enzo Ferrari: A Life and The Death of Ayrton Senna.

"'The best football book of the year.' Daily Telegraph"