Lee Ho (Korea)

A young and promising defensive midfielder, Lee Ho provides stability in the middle for his team-mates to venture forward. In 2003 he turned professional with local side Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i and together they won the 2005 K-League title. After not playing in Korea Republic’s first match at the 2003 FIFA World Youth Championship, his performance as a substitute in their second game earned him selection for their last two fixtures, including the quarter-final loss to Japan.

Patrick Vieira (France)

In Patrick Vieira, the France team possesses a rare pearl, for he is one of few players capable of performing the two key functions of the defensive midfielder to perfection: breaking up opposition attacks and instigating attacking moves for his team.

What is more, he does it with considerable panache. So complete is the array of skills in his locker that, if called upon, he could no doubt do a splendid job for Les Bleus in defence. The blend of strength and finesse with which big ‘Pat’ has been blessed constitutes a considerable asset for any team he represents.