Key Player: Viktor Onopko (Russia)

Viktor Onopko (Russia)

Head: Onopko's bald head makes him a distinctive figure and the veteran of over 100 caps certainly knows how to use his head. Onopko's aerial abilities are crucial in the Russian defence - witness his eclipse of Wales' John Hartson in the UEFA EURO 2004™ play-off which earned special praise from Russian coach Georgi Yartsev, who said: "I gave Viktor Onopko a special task to del with Hartson and he performed it perfectly, although Hartson is one of the strongest players in Europe." The veteran defender may lack speed, but thanks to his height and good positioning, he provides security and dominance in the air.

Heart: Onopko has been national team captain on and off for since the late 1990s. His play-off appearances took his caps total to a record 109 and Onopko is a figure who leads by example rather than by bellowing orders. Still in top form despite his age, the defender is supremely dedicated to the national team and unsurpassed in terms of professionalism and defensive prowess.

Legs: Leggy and tall, Onopko is exceptionally adept at intercepting passes and tackling. His anticipation, positioning and defensive technique allow him to neutralise any opposition seemingly without any effort.

Lungs: Despite his defensive duties, Onopko never hesitates to support the attack should the situation allow it. His assists and goals have long helped Russia when the strikers were unable to perform, memorably scoring twice to overturn a one-goal deficit against Andorra in a FIFA World Cup qualifying match in 1999.