Top 5 English players who failed on the international stage

#1 Dave Beasant

Goalkeeper Dave Beasant of Nottingham Forest

Beasant’s career was real Roy of the Rovers stuff. After starting his career at Edgware Town, he moved to 4th division Wimbledon in 1979. He would stay for the whole Crazy Gang ride from the bottom of the football pyramid to the first division to finally become FA Cup winners.

And it was Beasant who Wimbledon had to thank- making history by saving a penalty from John Aldridge as they ran out 1-0 winners at Wembley.

Beasant developed a reputation as a great penalty stopper and was consistently amongst the top ‘keepers in the first division during the late ’80s.

Eventually, England came calling and in 1989, Beasant, aged 30, made his debut against Yugoslavia. He was initially left out of the Italia ’90 squad but an injury to David Seaman meant he got in as the number 3 ‘keeper.

Beasant spent the entire tournament (even the 3rd place playoff game) on the bench. After the tournament, he never represented England again.