Forced into a defensive role against Holland and played a vital role in plugging the gaps after Zambrotta was dismissed. More strings to his bow than mere playmaking.

Did the simple things well against Romania rather than set the world alight.

Seems to be Zoff's chosen playmaker but outshone by Del Piero when he replaced him against Turkey.

Responded well against Belgium and scored a fabulous goal from 25 yards. Linked well with his strikers.

A spectacular player with brilliant ball skills and a great footballing brain, Fiore has only recently broken onto the international scene, but could prove a star this summer.

Just missed out on a UEFA Cup place with current club Udinese after joining from Parma last summer, but first-team football has done him good and he has been the midfield architect of the Udine side.