Profile

At 23, Christoph Leitgeb is one of a number of young Austrians hoping to steal some of the UEFA EURO 2008™ limelight this summer. Fielded regularly by Josef Hickersberger in the run-up to the event, the young blond midfielder has made a strong case for a place in the Austria starting XI.

Born in Graz, came up through the youth ranks at SK Sturm Graz, turning professional in 2005.

Won first international cap at end of debut season – in Hickersberger's second match in charge of Austria (4-1 home defeat against Croatia).

Maintained progress for club and country in 2005/06, earning €1.7m transfer to reigning champions FC Salzburg.

Scored in first league game for Salzburg and in UEFA Champions League qualifying round at home to Latvian champions FK Ventspils (4-0).

Yet to play in a competitive international.

Did you know?

On signing for Salzburg in 2007, Leitgeb was compared by the club's coach Giovanni Trapattoni to Czech Republic legend Pavel Nedvěd.