Leading city bank Coutts & Co has launched a footballers' financial plan offering a specialist service to millionaire soccer players. Having dealt with monarchs since 1692, Coutts have recognised that latter day royals such as David Beckham and Steve McManaman also need a safe place for their stash.

The idea is to make sure top players don't have to do what Geoff Hurst did after winning the 1966 World Cup with England - run a car insurance company. In other words, a retirement plan for old timers of around 35 years of age.