Position: Midfielder/Forward
Born: 09.01.81
Club: Borussia Dortmund

The son of the great Wlodi Smolarek, who appeared in the 1974 World Cup, Ebi Smolarek is one of whom the Polish people have high hopes.

After making his international debut as a raw 21-year-old, Smolarek jnr had to wait almost two years for his second cap - largely due to a serious knee injury - but is now an integral part of national coach Pawel Janas' plans.

He has been Borussia Dortmund's chief goal threat this season (despite a two-month goal drought) - proving his ability as a striker having played largely on the right wing at Feyenoord - yet it is as an attacking midfielder that he is used at international level.

Talented with the ball at his feet and an excellent 'link man', the 25-year-old is the sort of player who looks born to play on the biggest stage of all.