Solid and reliable performer who rarely misses a game for either club or country. The former under-21 international made the step-up in 2000 and has been a regular for Ukraine ever since either as a midfielder or makeshift striker. Currently the captain of Shakhtar Donetsk, he has appeared in the Champions League this season and with an eye for goal he is regularly monitored by some of Europe's leading clubs. Hails from one of Ukraine's most celebrated sporting families as both his parents were track and field athletes while his sister was captain of the national basketball team.