A vastly experienced defender, Kovac helped Juventus retain their Serie A title this season, although the success was shrouded in controversy due to match-fixing allegations. Born in Germany, he had previously played for Nurnberg, Bayer Leverkusen and Bayern Munich before heading to Italy a year ago. Made his international debut in April 1999 in a goalless draw against Italy and has gone on to make more than 50 appearances for his country. Played all three games at the last World Cup in Japan and Korea and at Euro 2004 and is again accompanied by his elder brother Niko in the 23-man squad.