Profile

Nine years after travelling to Mexico as a member of Germany's 1999 FIFA Confederations Cup squad, Robert Enke is back representing his country at a major tournament. The much-travelled 30-year-old is widely recognised as one of the finest goalkeepers in the Bundesliga after four seasons of sustained excellence with Hannover 96.

Began career with local club FC Carl Zeiss Jena before joining VfL Borussia Mönchengladbach's amateur side and breaking into first team, as replacement for Uwe Kamps, in 1998.

Moved abroad after just one Bundesliga season, joining SL Benfica; appointed captain by club's German coach Jupp Heynckes; three seasons of mixed fortunes, including playing in club's record European defeat – 7-0 at RC Celta de Vigo.

Joined FC Barcelona but made just one substitute appearance in the league and two UEFA Champions League starts (v Club Brugge KV and Galatasaray AS); loan spells at Fenerbahçe SK and CD Tenerife.

Returned to Germany in 2004, joining Hannover; has missed just two matches in four Bundesliga campaigns; made club captain in 2007.

Despite international call-up in 1999 did not make senior debut until March 2007 – lost 1-0 in friendly v Denmark in Duisburg.

Did you know?

Enke lives on a farm and is a staunch animal rights activist.