The left-sided 24-year-old offers a more creative option in midfield for coach Jurgen Klinsmann, earning his place after a solid campaign with VfB Stuttgart. Made his international debut in October 2004 against Iran and has been a regular in the national team squad ever since. Started out as a youngster with Bayern Munich but came to prominence after moving to England to join Aston Villa, where he made a name for spectacular strikes with his hammer of a left foot. Returned home to Germany last summer to try and ensure a World Cup finals place.