Kolo Toure has combined his natural gifts of pace and strength with superb reading of the game and fearsome tackling to establish a reputation as one of the world's best central defenders. The 25-year-old was a key figure during World Cup qualifying and at this year's African Cup of Nations, and coach Henri Michel will build his back-line around him in Germany. He began his career at ASEC Abidjan before joining Arsenal in 2002, the same year he made his senior international debut. Toure, who also provides a real threat going forward, has collected a Premiership title and two FA Cup winner's medals with the Gunners, while his superb form was a major factor in the London side reaching the 2006 Champions League final.