The European Championship has provided the stage for some of football's greatest names. Here, using Opta data, we select our all-time XI.
The European Championship has provided the stage for some of football's greatest names. Here, using Opta data, we select our all-time XI.Getty ImagesPeter Schmeichel (Goalkeeper, Denmark)
Denmark's European Championship win in 1992 was one of the biggest shocks in the tournament's history, and it was their goalkeeper who played a starring role.
Peter Schmeichel was involved in four Euros but it was in his second that he left his most profound mark – saving 27 of 31 shots on target he faced, which was more than any other goalkeeper in the competition.
After keeping out Marco van Basten's penalty in the semi-final, he then repelled all seven shots on target he faced against Germany in a 2-0 final win for the underdogs.
AdvertisementAllsportFranz Beckenbauer (Defender, Germany)
Heralded as one of the most influential players ever, Beckenbauer captained West Germany to the final in both of his two European Championship appearances.
Despite falling short in 1976, 'Der Kaiser' was victorious four years earlier, lifting the trophy in Brussels to make history both nationally and individually.
The 1972 win for Germany and Beckenbauer marked the first time any player had claimed the European Championship trophy and been named the world's best player in the same year.
AllsportPaolo Maldini (Defender, Italy)
AC Milan's all-time record appearance maker never managed to win the European Championship, falling short in the final in 2000, but that did not stop him from leaving a lasting impression.
With 13 matches played – the joint highest of any Italy player – Maldini's story was one of significant longevity and consistency.
Since 1980, and despite Maldini having retired from international football in 2002, no Italy player has been able to register more tackles at the Euros (37).
Getty ImagesMatthias Sammer (Defender, Germany)
Much like Beckenbauer, Sammer's contribution to the Euros was both collective and individual.
Following the lead of 'Der Kaiser' in 1972, and then Karl-Heinz Rummenigge in 1980, Sammer was named World Player of the Year in 1996, having helped Germany to their third European Championship crown at Wembley.
The big defender scored twice in that tournament, whilst also completing more touches (531) and successful passes (346) than any other player.