When Saturday Comes | The half decent football magazine

The best and worst moments of 2017 ~ part one

From Scotland’s failures to the triumph of England’s Under-17s, via John Terry, astounding Cup runs and restructuring the women’s game – WSC contributors reflect on the year

Tribute to Raymond Kopa, Ballon d’Or winner and France’s first great player

Kopa, who died last week at the age of 85, also won three European Cups and six league titles during his time at Reims and Real Madrid

Mad cap plans

Cris Freddi looks back at players whose England caps may have owed more than a little to their club's place at the top of the league

Let’s make it clear from the start: these are exceptions. It’s more than likely that a player who helps his club to the top spot deserves a chance with England. But one or two seem to have been dragged up by those around them – or were found out at international level. Names and pack drill follow.

Search: 'Raymond Kopa'

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The best and worst moments of 2017 ~ part one

From Scotland’s failures to the triumph of England’s Under-17s, via John Terry, astounding Cup runs and restructuring the women’s game – WSC contributors reflect on the year

Tribute to Raymond Kopa, Ballon d’Or winner and France’s first great player

Kopa, who died last week at the age of 85, also won three European Cups and six league titles during his time at Reims and Real Madrid

Mad cap plans