How much has advancement in sporting gear helped footballers over the years?

[futbol>>>IRAN]

How much of an impact has new and improved sporting gear in football such as football boots, shinguards, tights, clothing, gear etc.. helped the modern day athelete compared to those athletes of earlier times?!!

Compare for example the equipment that is available todays compared to Maradona's time like the cleats that Ronaldinho wears to the ones Maradona wore.


Discuss..