Widely regarded as the great hope of German football, his rise has been slowed down by a string of injuries.

Is at home on the right flank and his presence in the squad could mean Mehmet Scholl or Marcus Babbel will be unable to break into the starting XI. Came on for Babbel in the second half of Germany's final warm-up match against the Czech Republic - more tellingly, perhaps, he replaced the awkward Matthaeus against Romania.

He has unique skills and vision and could well be one of the revelations of the tournament if fully fit and selected.

Had a good game but was surprisingly substituted for Michael Ballack in the 71st minute.