Wes Brown is a versatile defender who has played at Manchester United for the entirety of his career. In 1992, at the age of 13, Brown signed for United on schoolboy terms. He signed professional terms in 1996 and was successful in securing success in the FA Youth Cup alongside some impressive performances in the reserves. In May 1998, Brown made his full debut for the club as a substitute against Leeds United. However, his breakthrough was to occur the following season where he made numerous appearances at right back as well as in his more natural position of centre back. The campaign could not have gone better for Brown as United won their historic treble.
As well as the 98/99 season went, 99/00 was a disaster as Brown failed to make an appearance at all due to a string of persistent injuries. However, a positive 2001 and 2002 prompted Sir Alex Ferguson to call him the most naturally talented defender at the club. Even so, niggling injuries struck again throughout 2003 which limited his appearances in the first team. On the final day of the 03/04 campaign, Brown tore a knee ligament that ruled him out for several months. He returned midway through the 04/05 season and put in a fine performance against Arsenal in the FA Cup Semi Final in particular.
Injuries have continued to restrict Brown 's appearances throughout his career. As a result, he has never properly established himself as a first team regular at United. He currently has a contract to 2013 where he will most likely see out his career. Despite his injuries, Brown has managed to make 21 appearances at international level for England. The defender made his debut in 1999 against Hungary. However, the only major championship he has ever travelled to was the 2002 World Cup. Lately under Fabio Capello, Brown has been included more frequently in the England squad and is considered a genuine prospect to be named in the 23 man party that travels to South Africa injury permitting.
