Position: Goalkeeper
Born: 15.04.76
Club: Nagoya Grampus Eight

Statistically, Japan's back-up keeper Seigo Narazaki has a slightly better record at international level than his rival for the number one jersey Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi - but the Nagoya Grampus Eight shot-stopper is still likely to be sat on the bench when Japan go into Group D action this summer.

Narazaki was first choice for his country when they hosted the last World Cup and impressed as Japan reached the knock-out stages. However, the more showy Kawaguchi soon won his place back and has largely kept Narazaki waiting in the wings since.

The 30-year-old has earned a reputation for steadiness and calm and having played four times in qualifying, he will be ready for action if called upon by Zico during the tournament.