Defensive midfielder who will be one of the key members of the Iran side in Germany. Although the no-frills job that Nekounam performs in front of his back four rarely catches the attention of the media, he is a vital part of coach Branko Ivankovic's plans. Such is the quiet efficiency of the 25-year-old that he is regularly linked with a move away from United Arab Emirates where he plays for Al Wahda. His youthful energy allied with an ability to win the ball and also read the game has regularly courted interest from German Bundesliga sides and it would be no surprise to see Nekounam make a move after the World Cup.