Position: Defender
Born: 05.04.77
Club: Getafe

Despite being born in Argentina, Mariano Pernia has recently obtained Spanish citizenship allowing him to play for his adopted country. The offensive left-sided defender was a late replacement for Chelsea's Asier del Horno who was ruled out through injury.

Pernia came through the ranks at San Lorenzo without making a first-team appearance, before moving to Independiente. In 2003, the defender switched to Spain and, after a brief spell with Recreativo de Huelva, signed for Getafe.

Known for his lethal left foot, Pernia scored three goals in his debut season in La Liga, including a 40-yard effort against Real Betis.

Last season, Pernia had an even more successful campaign, scoring 10 goals which led to interest from Valencia and Atletico Madrid, with Getafe claiming that Pernia will be playing for the latter next season though this has yet to be confirmed.

The defender is highly regarded in Spain with manager Luis Aragones surprising many when he left the Argentine-born full back out of the original squad. However, the 29-year-old will now get his chance to play on the big stage in Germany and will be looking to impress.