Ryan Babel Bio Send To Friend  

An exciting player for his country but an enigma for his club, Babel's fortunes could not differ any more than they do. Unable to get into the Liverpool side and frustratingly ineffective when he does, there is much talk that the forward will depart Anfield before the World Cup comes around next summer.

If he may struggle to make a name for himself in the Premier League, he is a different player entirely in the international game. Confident and direct, he produces the kind of performances Rafael Benitez would love to witness on Merseyside; perhaps it shows what can be achieved when a player feels appreciated.

Babel joined Liverpool in the summer of 2007 for around £11.5 million. He was a product of the famous Ajax youth academy, and had made 71 Eredivisie appearances before moving to England.

The former Holland youth international made his full international debut against Romania in March 2005 and marked it with a goal after coming off the bench. Injury limited his involvement at the 2006 World Cup finals and there would be further disappointment as he injured ankle ligaments just before Euro 2008 which ruled him out of the tournament.

Strengths: Babel has the ability to take on players and beat them, as well as delivering into dangerous areas. He has pace in abundance.

Weaknesses: Babel rarely tracks back and can be accused of losing his concentration at times. He often tries one trick too many which results in him losing the ball when the simple option is available. Also, he doesn't score enough goals for a player considered a striker.

Career high: Babel scored and was named man of the match as Holland won the 2007 European Under-21 Championships on home soil, defeating Serbia 4-1 in the final.

Career low: Missing out on Euro 2008 after tearing ankle ligaments just weeks before the start of the finals.

Style: Clearly a confidence player looking at his performances for Liverpool and Holland; pacy, skilful and direct.

Quotes: "The Holland coach made a statement that he wants his players playing for their clubs. It's clear I need to be playing more. I've realised for myself this has to be the year for me. There's a World Cup at the end of the season, and my position for the Holland national team is in danger." Ryan Babel in October 2009.

Trivia: Babel likes to think of himself as something of a rap star and has collaborated with a number of Dutch music stars as well as recording a song with Royston Drenthe. Check out his rapping here.

Soccernet says: There is no doubt that Babel has ability, but a lack of first-team opportunities at club level must surely put his involvement in South Africa in some doubt.