Since snubbing Spurs for Newcastle in 2006, Duff's career has bombed. Spurs have twice qualified for Europe and won a trophy. Good choice
The genial Dubliner who loves nothing more than an afternoon nap first came to attention with Blackburn, where his pace and trickery on the left impressed so much that nouveau-riche Chelsea triggered a £17m release clause in summer 2003.
When new boss Jose Mourinho signed Arjen Robben the following summer, Duff was moved to the right wing and the two flankers ripped the Premiership apart. The following season was less productive and Glenn Roeder paid £5m in summer 2006 to take the Irish international to Newcastle.
Once again his progress was hampered by injuries, including to others – when available, he has often slotted in at left-back – but during the 2007/08 season Duff showed glimpses of the form can terrify defences.