The former under-21 captain was plucked from lowly second divison Sogndal IL, having already gained two senior caps, with his debut coming against Israel in January 1999.

Having been left out of the Norway squad in April he responded by hitting a brace against Galatasaray in the semi-finals of the UEFA Cup. Though he looks likely to start on the bench, Bakke is a big-match player whose combative nature and eye for goal should see him become an international for years to come.

Displayed confidence and awareness beyond his years in the opening win over Spain in Rotterdam. Equally forceful against Yugoslavia but got booked after being provoked by some Yugoslav gamesmanship.

Came on for Carew against Slovenia and was himself substituted for Strand.