Position: Defender
Born: 25.05.79
Club: Fulham

A former MLS Rookie of the Year and twice Defender of the Year, Carlos Bocanegra is a tough-tackling stopper out of the old school.

Currently playing his club football for Fulham having joined them in January 2004, the Californian is blessed with pace, power and tactical awareness, giving him just about the perfect blend for a modern-day defender.

Having shone for his country at Under-18 and Under-23 level, Bocanegra was recruited by Chicago Fire in 2000 and went on to win the Rookie of the Year award.

A year later he would make his debut for the national side and he has become an integral part of the squad with his committed defensive displays helping Bruce Arena's men qualify as winners of the CONCACAF qualifying group.

Able to play at left-back although he is at his best when central, Bocanegra is on an upward curve, and an impressive World Cup could see his profile grow further.