Whenever the topic of best centre midfielders is discussed then it’s almost certain that Xavi’s name crops up.

Turning 37 today, he’s still going strong for Al Sadd in Qatar, and hasn’t lost his magic that saw him enjoy so much success with Barcelona and the Spanish national team.

Having come through the ranks at the Nou Camp, he made his first-team debut in 1998 and hasn’t looked back since.

Scoring 58 goals in 505 appearances for Barca, he gradually became a key player, often dictating play with his excellent vision of passing. In his 17-years at Barca, he won 28 trophies including eight La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns.

As well as his numerous individual accolades, he enjoyed more success for Spain winning the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2008 and 2012.

Other sport stars born on this day

1947: Angel Nieto, Spanish motorcyclist who won seven world 125cc and six 50cc titles (70).

1967: David Ginola, ex-France, Newcastle, Tottenham, Aston Villa and Everton winger (50).

1984: Robinho, Former Manchester City, AC Milan and Brazil forward, currently with Atletico Mineiro (33).

1988: Tatiana Golovin, Russia-born French player who won the mixed doubles at the 2004 French Open (29).