During 2008, Fabio Capello awarded caps to 35 players in ten games as England won eight, drew one and lost one. Today we look at the only player to start all ten matches during the year, David James.
Age 38
Date of Birth 01.08.70
Caps in 2008 10
Career Caps 45
Portsmouth
While Gareth Barry was the sole outfield player to play his part in all ten games during 2008, there was only one man who was on every teamsheet for Fabio Capello in his first year in charge - David James.
As well as lifting The FA Cup with Portsmouth, James enjoyed a productive year for his country as he firmly established his place as the first choice England goalkeeper.
Having started the first game of the year against Switzerland at Wembley, James showed great determination to hold onto his spot as England number one.
In his ten appearances, James was only replaced twice as Capello gave a chance to first Joe Hart against Trinidad and then Scott Carson against Germany in Berlin.
The Pompey 'keeper would keep three consecutive clean sheets during the middle part of the year and concede just seven goals in all as England's eight victories were built on solid defence.
After losing to France in March England would win seven out of eight games including four World Cup Qualifiers, and James was at the heart of those victories.
Quotes
(Speaking after Switzerland victory) "In the past when managers have taken over they usually go straight into a qualification period, and it's then all focused on the opposition. But I think over the three days for Mr Capello it was more about looking at the players he had and just seeing what was going on.
"We didn't know what the team was until ten minutes before getting on the bus. We rotated and changed a lot of the personnel within training, and as much as it gives you a little bit of apprehension perhaps it also keeps you focused.
"It's a personal triumph to still be involved with so many decent English keepers about, and the strength in depth is really good," said James.
"You look at the players we've called up and you can see that it's looking good, so I'm pleased to be in the squad." David James