Stars of UEFA EURO 2016: Thomas Müller

At a glance
A true Bavarian who came through Bayern München's youth ranks, Thomas Müller was handed his first-team debut under Jürgen Klinsmann in 2008, scoring his first senior goal in Bayern's 7-1 thrashing of Sporting CP in the UEFA Champions League in March 2009. A world champion and UEFA Champions League winner, Müller's trophy haul also includes four Bundesliga titles and three German Cups. Three months after making his Germany debut, Müller claimed the Golden Boot and Best Young Player Award at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

EURO pedigree
Müller shone at the 2010 and 2014 World Cups but left less of a mark at UEFA EURO 2012; he started all of his side's group stage games but was only a substitute in the knockout phase, Germany eventually losing 2-1 to Italy in the semi-finals. However 'Radio Müller' (a nickname given him by team-mates for his occasional outspoken moments) has a great qualifying record. He played all of Germany's ten victories en route to Poland and Ukraine and contributed nine goals as Die Mannschaft qualified for UEFA EURO 2016 as group winners.

What he offers

Importance for Germany
Impossible to ignore when in top shape, the unorthodox 26-year-old's impressive scoring rate has made him a major name in world football. A hard worker, his ability of finding the right place to finish has also earned the tag of "space reader". Though Germany have several promising alternatives in attacking midfield, a trio including the pacy Marco Reus, assist-king Mesut Özil and Müller would put fear into any defence – and Müller can play as an out-and-out striker too.

International career
Debut: Germany 0-1 Argentina, 3 March 2010 (friendly)
Appearances: 68
Goals: 31

EURO final tournament (Germany record)
Appearances: 5 (Philipp Lahm, 14)
Goals: 0 (Jürgen Klinsmann, 5)
Record: W4 D0 L1