Miguel has been a cornerstone in the Valencia defence during what has been a solid season in La Liga. He arrived in Spain after falling out with the management at Benfica in the summer of 2005. Unlikely to force his way into the starting line-up during the World Cup, he is seen as more of a replacement should anything happen to the first-choice central defensive partnership. Miguel can also play on the right side of defence meaning he could be a vital squad player during the course of the finals. A quick and committed defender who made his international debut against Italy in 2003.