Position: Defender
Born: 14.12.79
Club: Newcastle

Newcastle fans may well not believe it but Jean-Alain Boumsong has been in the France matchday squad for all 10 of their World Cup qualifiers, starting the last six.

A tremendous natural athlete, Boumsong grew as a footballer under the tutelage of Auxerre coach Guy Roux after starting his professional career with Le Havre.

When his contract with Auxerre expired after Euro 2004, he joined Rangers on a free transfer but just six months later Newcastle shelled out £8million for him.

His form for the Magpies has been patchy, though, with his partnership with Titus Bramble giving the Toon Army many a sleepless night.

Yet despite that Raymond Domenech has kept faith with Boumsong, a man who prior to being named in France's Euro 2004 squad had played only sparingly for Les Bleus.

Born in Cameroon, Boumsong's father played for the 'Indomitable Lions' but the Newcastle defender elected to follow the likes of Marcel Desailly, Lilian Thuram and Patrick Vieira in playing for his adopted country.

On his day a strong defender and good distributor, Boumsong will hope performing on the highest stage of all will inspire him to produce his best form.