Position: Defender
Born: 09.07.79
Club: FC Basle

While namesake Hidetoshi continues to be idolised by many Japan fans, Koji Nakata enjoys a much less celebrated role with the national team.

Although he has not always featured under Zico (despite being a mainstay of the previous World Cup squad), his solid work ethic has ultimately led to another major tournament summons.

His versatility is the real bonus to Zico. Used predominantly - and regularly - as a left-sided defender under previous Japan boss Philippe Troussier, Nakata prefers a defensive midfield role (appearing there three times in qualifying) and is more likely to appear in that position in Germany.

Having come through a fairly abysmal stint at Marseille (he was signed by Troussier post-World Cup 2002, only to see the Frenchman lose his job within months), Nakata is now with Basle in the Swiss Super League and looks to be getting his career back on track.

Still only 26, he has the best years of his career ahead of him and will be keen to prove his worth on the big stage.