A man who dominated the English Premiership, Vieira was the marauding powerhouse in the centre of the pitch who led Arsenal FC to almost annual glory. He was captain of the first side to last a whole season unbeaten in the Premiership and won the World Cup in 1998 and European Cup two years later. Last summer’s move to Juventus, after nine fruitful years at Arsenal, saw him add the Serie A title to an already impressive collection of medals. But the Italian media and fans repeatedly questioned his benefit to the team and his confidence suffered. To the delight of his many admirers however, Vieira’s vital contribution to France’s resurgence in this World Cup signals there’s life in this ferocious dog yet.