A consistent performer at left-back, with the versatility to also play in midfield, Stephen Warnock began his career at Liverpool and now plays for Aston Villa. Born in Ormskirk, he was one of the last English players to come through the academy at Anfield, showing mental strength to recover from several serious injuries early in his career.

After loan spells at Bradford City and Coventry City, he first played for Liverpool in 2004 and acted as a back-up to John Arne Riise throughout the 2004/05 season, when the club won the UEFA Champions League.

Under Rafael Benitez, Warnock often struggled for playing time and left the club in January 2007 to join Blackburn Rovers. He blossomed under the management of Mark Hughes at Ewood Park, enjoying being first choice and playing in various positions, including central midfield.

In August 2009, Warnock left Blackburn for Aston Villa, to join Martin O’Neill’s squad of young English players. An impressive first season included finishing sixth in the Premier League, ahead of old club Liverpool, and a runners-up medal in the League Cup after defeat to Manchester United.

Warnock was first called up to the England squad in 2005 and has been named in several squads since then, but has just one cap, a substitute appearance against Trinidad and Tobago in 2008.

If chosen, the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ will be Warnock’s first experience of a major international tournament, where he would be expected to provide cover for Ashley Cole.