Hugo Lloris has already made history at this World Cup.
On Sunday, the France captain has the chance to write some more.
Tottenham keeper Lloris, 35, overtook Lillian Thuram as France’s most-capped player and is now two ahead with a record 144 appearances for his country.
Lloris also stands on the brink of greatness because if France win the final on Sunday then he would also become the first captain in World Cup history to retain the trophy. That should earn him respect as one of the all-time greats and his performances at this World Cup arguably put him in the team of the tournament.
His saves against England and Morocco are key reasons as to why France are in the final at the Lusail Stadium on Sunday. Lloris does not deserve to be questioned and you have to question the validity and value of any stats that suggest otherwise.
The ultimate definition of greatness is success and Lloris can become the most decorated captain and Frenchman in World Cup history.
Clearly, some of the criticism - particularly in England - has irked him and he was asked about it in a pre-match press conference. Lloris said: “I don’t have any message for their media. I prefer to do my talking on the pitch. We don’t need any extra motivation.”
After France beat England in the quarter final, Lloris came through the mixed zone interview area, saw some familiar English faces and said: “Now you want words.”
Lloris is a brilliant keeper, has enjoyed a superb career with Tottenham and is still going strong. His mistakes are still rare and he remains an inspirational figure at the club.
Now, Lloris can have the final word on the biggest stage on Sunday in what could also be his last World Cup. Only two teams have successfully defended the World Cup title - Italy in 1934 and 1938 and then Brazil in 1958 and 1962.
In 1934, Italy goalkeeper Giampiero Combi was captain but in 1938 Giuseppe Meazza wore the armband. There have been near misses as Diego Maradona led Argentina to glory in 1986 but they lost in 1990. Brazil captain Dunga lifted the trophy in 1994 but his side lost to France in the 1998 final.
Now, Lloris can write his name into World Cup history and football folklore. And that should gain him the respect and appreciation that he thoroughly deserves.
