40 years ago today Gary Lineker rescues England on route to bagging a World Cup Golden boot

The World Cup is the perfect stage to really make a name for yourself and over the years, many have used the tournament as a jumping-off point to announce their arrival on the world stage. 

In 1986, England striker did just that, as he came to England's rescue in Mexico and cemented his place as one of the game's most deadly finishers. 

The Three Lions headed into their final group game against Poland knowing only a win would do if they were to progress to the knockout phase, having lost to Portugal and then held to a goalless draw with Morocco. 

Enter Bobby Robson's number 10. Just eight minutes into their final group game, Lineker scored his first World Cup goal and set England on the road to a vital win. 

By half-time, the game was over with Lineker netting two more goals to give his side a comfortable 3-0 lead and become the first England player to score a World Cup hat-trick since Geoff Hurst's famous treble in the 1966 final. 

Lineker wasn't done yet, though. Two more goals followed against Paraguay and another in the infamous defeat to Argentina, meaning that the Everton frontman took home the Golden Boot and secured himself a post-tournament move to Barcelona. 

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Gary Lineker completes his World Cup hat-trick

A 3-0 win for England at Mexico '86

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