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PThe World Cup, 1998, Part 2:
John Collins

Footballer John Collins was born in Galashiels on the 31st of January 1968. He has played for Hibs, Celtic and Monaco, and Everton before signing for his current team Fulham.

The left-sided midfielder has gained 58 caps playing for Scotland and has scored 12 goals for his country. He first played for Scotland in February 1986 in a match against Saudi Arabia. During the World Cup in 1998, Collins scored a memorable penalty against the defending Champions, Brazil, in the tournament's opening match. Collins showed his lack of nerves in such a big game by coolly slotting the ball past the Brazilian goalkeeper. Perhaps his self-confidence was indicated before the match kicked off, when he winked at the camera during the pre-match formalities.

There was considerable controversy over Collins signing with Monaco, with Celtic claiming they had lost £3m in the deal, due to the Bosman ruling. The issue was taken to court, but Celtic lost the case.

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