I tell you what, in a golden age for English central defenders - Rio Ferdinand, John Terry, Sol Campbell, Southgate and Ehiogu, Ledley King, Woody - I reckon Rio and Woodgate were possibly the best.
Rolls Royce doesn’t even cover it, watching him on his day was an absolute masterclass in how to defend. I’d say he was as good as Van Dijk is now for those too young to have seen him.
Gareth Southgate is the best I’ve seen at Boro for his consistency and class and I really do think he was one of the best in the country. Every season I was surprised that Arsenal, Chelsea or United didn’t come in for him.
But for pure ability, Woodgate was on a different level. There’s a reason why from that list, Real Madrid signed him.
Unbelievable talent around then in defence though. Every one of them would be first choice in the England team now.