The Brazilian was a hugely talented left winger who enjoyed huge success during his 16-year professional career.

Denilson, who turns 39 today, first caught the eye during a highly successful four-year spell at Sao Paolo, for whom he scored 58 goals in 110 appearances.

He then attracted the attention of the world during the 1997 Copa America with numerous noteworthy performances for A Seleção.

Soon, foreign clubs came calling and Denilson was ssigned up by Real Betis, becoming the most expensive player at £21.5m.

At the national level, Denilson earned more than 60 caps for Brazil, making his full debut before his 20th birthday.

He took part in six international tournaments, including two World Cups (winning the 2002 edition), the 1997 Copa America and the 1997 Confederations Cup, winning both.

More sports stars who were born on this day:

1952: Mike Shanahan, former NFL coach who led Denver Broncos to back-to-back Super Bowl wins. (64)

1953: Sam Torrance, former European Ryder Cup captain with 21 Tour wins. (63)

1967: Michael Thomas, former Arsenal, Liverpool and England midfielder. (49)

1982: Jose Bosingwa, Portugal’s former Chelsea full-back now with Turkish side Trabzonspor. (34)