Profile

A tall target man, Roman Kienast might be considered an unusual choice by Josef Hickersberger in that he plays in Norway with unfashionable Ham-Kam Fotball. Indeed, the club were a second division side until their promotion at the end of 2007. The 24-year-old striker scored his first international goal on the eve of UEFA EURO 2008 in a friendly against Nigeria (1-1).

Born in Salzburg but began his career in Vienna with the amateur team of SK Rapid Wien.

Integrated with first team in 2002/03 but after two disappointing seasons – without a Bundesliga goal – dropped down a division on loan to SCR Altach.

Recalled by Rapid for 2005/06 campaign; broke Bundesliga duck with goal in 1-1 draw v VfB Admira Wacker Mödling (September 2005) but unable to claim permanent berth and offloaded again, to Ham-Kam.

Relegated at end of 2006 season but he found his scoring form in Norwegian second tier to help club back into Tippeligaen and also earn himself first cap for Austria (in 3-1 defeat by UEFA EURO 2008 co-hosts Switzerland in Zurich).

Did you know?

Kienast's father, Wolfgang, also played for Rapid, as did Roman's uncle Reinhard, who was once the holder of the club record appearance tally.