The 2026 edition gets under way on Thursday evening as Mexico face South Africa (8pm UK time). Four ex-Cobblers players will be in action this summer, adding their names to a surprisingly long list of players and managers with Sixfields connections who have graced the biggest stage of all. Here, we take a look at some of the club’s notable World Cup representatives over the years…
13. Tim Flowers
Part of the coaching staff at Sixfields between 2011 and 2013, including a couple of games as caretaker boss. A former goalkeeper for Blackburn, Leicester, Wolves and Southampton, he earned 11 caps for England and was part of their Euro 1996 and 1998 World Cup squads. Now manager of Bromsgrove Sporting Photo: Pete Norton
14. Dave Bowen
His success as Northampton manager needs no introduction but he also had a fine playing career. Captained Wales to their first ever World Cup finals in 1958, where they drew all three group games before narrowly losing to Brazil in the last eight. Photo: Pete Norton
15. Phil Neal
Born in the county, Neal played nearly 200 games for Northampton between 1967 and 1974 before winning three European Cups across 11 years at Liverpool. Won 50 caps for England and played at the 1982 World Cup. Went on to manage Man City, Bolton, Cardiff and Coventry Photo: Getty Images
16. John Gorman
Replaced Colin Calderwood as Cobblers boss in 2006 but resigned a few months later, citing personal reasons. He did not play at a World Cup but he was Glenn Hoddle's assistant between 1996 and 1999, going to France for the '98 tournament. Also managed Swindon and Wycombe. Photo: Pete Norton