Position: Goalkeeper
Born: 03.10.81
Club: Rennes

Andreas Isaksson's career followed a similar path to that of Kim Kallstrom in the early stages but while the midfielder resisted the urge to join a big club straight away, Isaksson jumped at the chance.

He made his debut for Trelleborgs at just 17 and, after just 10 first-team appearances, Italian giants Juventus snapped him up in 2000.

Unsurprisingly he found it diffucult to oust Gianluigi Buffon and he never featured for the 'Old Lady' but the experience did him good and he returned to Sweden an improved player.

He won consecutive Allsvenskan titles with Djurgarden and was widley regarded as the best keeper in Sweden, replacing Magnus Hedman as No 1 during qualifying for Euro 2004.

He played in every match in Portugal and his form earned him some more rave reviews - and a move to the French league with Rennes.

A tremendous shot-stopper who commands his area well, Isaksson's height - he stands over 6ft 6in - makes him an imposing barrier.

Isaksson has long been regarded as one of the most promising keepers in Europe and a good World Cup performance could again see him join one of the giants, this time in a more senior capacity.