WORLD CUP: PLAYERS TO WATCH

Landon Donovan (USA)

The three-time American Footballer of the Year, Donovan is blessed with an ability to press forward and get goals, the qualities that have established himself as the most talented and technically gifted American player of his generation. With close control, explosive pace and superior vision, he earned himself a place in Bruce Arena’s squad for the 2002 World Cup in Korea/Japan where he played a significant role in the USA’s run to the quarter-finals. Roaming between the midfield and forward lines, he scored twice in a successful campaign for the Americans, against Poland in the first round and Mexico in their memorable second-round triumph.

Brian McBride (USA)

With an aerial presence to threaten even the toughest of centre-backs, veteran striker Brian McBride, 34, is one of the United States’ top attacking weapons. McBride made his senior national team debut on 25 March 1993 against Honduras. He played a crucial role for the team at both the 1998 and 2002 World Cups, scoring in both tournaments. ‘Bake’, as he is nicknamed, struck against Iran at France 1998, and then found the net against Portugal and Mexico in Korea/Japan to help the US advance to the last eight. McBride is the USA’s fourth-top all-time scorer and is fast approaching his 100th cap.