Position: Forward
Born: 04.06.85
Club: FC Cologne

Lukas Podolski is widely regarded as Germany's best forward prospect in years and his sparkling talents are sure to light up the World Cup.

Born in Poland, Podolski became Germany's third-youngest debutant behind Uwe Seeler and Olaf Thon when he featured in a friendly with Hungary in 2004.

His international credentials have continued to grow after he pounced four times in five matches during Germany's inspiring run to the semi-finals at the 2005 Confederations Cup.

The precocious talent rapidly rose through the youth ranks at Cologne where his terrific vision, lightning pace and killer instinct in front of goal made him a huge fan favourite.

Following the heartache of relegation in his first season Podolski became a ruthless goal machine and fired his beloved club back into the Bundesliga. Continued stunning displays have won many admirers, not least Bayern Munich who are expected to sign the young prodigy for in excess of 10million euros in the summer.