Roberto Carlos Names Surprising Choice For Favourite English Player

Roberto Carlos has named John Terry as his favourite English player, describing the Chelsea legend as "different".

Carlos played against England's national team on many occasions, including the 2002 World Cup quarter final victory en route to lifting the Jules Rimet trophy in Yokohama.

He was also teammates with David Beckham, Steve McManaman, Michael Owen and Jonathan Woodgate during his glittering spell at Real Madrid.

Image: PA

A fan of English football and culture, Carlos came up against a slew of the best teams and players.

But the legendary Brazilian left-back has a particular fondness of Terry, who won the UEFA Club Defender of the Year in 2005, 2008 and 2009.

Image: PA

“The great captain, John Terry," Carlos told SPORTbible when asked who his favourite English player is.

"Of course, Lampard and Gerrard have been wonderful but Terry was different. 

“A lot of them [could have played for Brazil] but what’s been most important of all is the growth of Brazilian players. 

“They are selected to play for Brazil but they play their club football in Europe and that’s been the best arrangement.” 

Carlos was actually not far off linking up with Terry, having been close to signing for Chelsea in 2007 before ultimately joining Fenerbahce.

He was also on the verge of signing from Birmingham City and Aston Villa at different points in his career.

Image: PA

The 48-year-old never made the move to England but will be playing in these shores very soon.

Carlos, through eBay's 'Dream Transfer' campaign, could be playing for your Sunday League term for a £5 transfer fee.

Bidding is now open and a random Sunday League team will get the free-kick king playing for them for a one-off game, which will be commentated on by Chris Kamara next month.

Carlos commented: “I’ve seen lots of videos of Sunday League teams and it’s something that interests me because these types of teams are something new for us as players. 

“I played in the old Wembley Stadium and for me playing at Wembley was a dream. It was a day I won’t ever forget because of the atmosphere and the respect we were given by people there. 

“It was wonderful. 

“I like English football a lot. I like the atmosphere and the quality of players. English football is just English football. The English league is one of the best in the world.”