Profile

It is third time lucky for Oliver Neuville this summer. The diminutive 35-year-old forward was excluded from Germany's squad at each of the last two UEFA European Championships despite playing regularly in qualifying.

Born in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland to a German father and Italian mother, he also has ancestral roots in Belgium.

Started career with Servette FC, spearheading club's Swiss title success in 1993/94 with 16 goals, including hat-trick v BSC Young Boys in decisive 4-1 win on final day.

Joined CD Tenerife in 1996, scoring on league debut.

Moved to Germany after a year in Canary Islands, joining FC Hansa Rostock; his 14 goals in 1998/99 helped save team from relegation and earned him Germany call-up (first cap v Malta in September 1998).

Had five-season spell at Bayer 04 Leverkusen which included a 2002 UEFA Champions League final appearance, having scored in both legs of semi-final v Manchester United FC.

Has spent past four years with VfL Borussia Mönchengladbach; relegated in 2006/07 but promoted immediately in 2007/08 (scored 15 goals).

Scored winners for Germany v Paraguay at 2002 World Cup and Poland at 2006 tournament.

Did you know?

Despite playing some part in all seven of Germany's games in the 2006 World Cup, his last major tournament start going into UEFA EURO 2008 was the 2002 World Cup final.