John Barnes is the most valuable and most feared forward in the British game today. In the red of all conquering Liverpool, or the white of England, he can turn a game with a single flash of inspiration, while his cultured left foot and grace of a natural athlete make him a joy to watch. Just two years after becoming a professional footballer, he pulled on an England shirt - and soon made the world take notice, his electrifying pace and close control producing an individual goal against Brazil in the Maracanã Stadium that the watching Pele (Barnes’ youthful inspiration) would have been proud to score. The first black footballer of the year, Jamaican born Barnes is a role model for youngsters of every race. Yet few know the private man, a complex character who, championed by some, criticise by others, answers words with deeds the way he knows best - on the pitch.