Position: Midfielder
Born: 28.12.81
Club: Hamburg

Despite being a relative newcomer on the international scene, Khalid Boulahrouz is a firm favourite in Holland's set-up.

The 24-year-old is known by his fans at German club Hamburg as 'Khalid the Cannibal' for his ruthless attitude to closing down strikers.

Boulahrouz began his playing career for RKC Waalwijk in 2002 before moving to Hamburg the at the start of the 2004/05 season - and his impressive displays made Marco van Basten pick him for the 3-0 friendly victory over Liechtenstein.

The uncompromising defender played in seven of his country's qualifying games and is hoping to win a starting place when the finals begin.