Position: Midfielder

Born: 05.07.1982

Club: Liverpool

Xabi Alonso was not even guaranteed a start for Spain during Euro 2004 but he will enter the World Cup regarded as one of the finest midfielders in Europe.

A graduate of Real Sociedad's youth system, Alonso made his debut in 1999 and was a rare bright spark during the club's troubled 2001/2002 season.

The following season he was at the heart of the Sociedad side that finished second in La Liga and qualified for the Champions League.

In the summer of 2004 new Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez convinced the club to invest £10.5million in Alonso and the midfielder quickly proved value for money.

In an incredible first season at Anfield, Alonso instantly won over fans with his enterprising passing, broke his ankle and then scored in the remarkable Champions League triumph over Milan.

Alonso's elegant passing and enviable vision makes him a player of rare finesse and the rigours of the English game, injuries aside, have improved his defensive play.

In 2005/2006 Alonso built on his formidible partnership with Steven Gerrard in Liverpool's vastly improved Premiership campaign.

Two sensational goals for the Reds in a 5-3 FA Cup win over Luton, one from well inside his own half, demonstrated his outstanding right boot once again.

He has also transfered his superb form into the red shirt of Spain and will be a key figure in the centre of midfield in Germany.