Josip Šimunić has been a mainstay of Croatia's defence for a number of years, starting all three matches for his country at UEFA EURO 2004 and the FIFA World Cups of 2002 and 2006. Tall, strong and secure in possession, he usually plays on the left-hand side of defence but is equally adept in a central role.

Born to Croatian parents in the Australian capital of Canberra, he began his career locally with Melbourne Knights before moving to Germany at 19.

Made only handful of Bundesliga appearances for Hamburger SV before switching in 2000 to Hertha BSC Berlin, where he has remained ever since.

Six UEFA Cup campaigns with Hertha; yet to appear in the UEFA Champions League.

First capped in November 2001; replaced the injured Igor Tudor in 2002 World Cup squad and played all three games in Japan.

Ever present also at UEFA EURO 2004 and 2006 World Cup finals though sent off in final game v native Australia in bizarre circumstances after receiving three yellow cards.

Did you know?
Graeme Poll, the English referee who issued three yellow cards to Šimunić before sending him off in the 2006 World Cup match against Australia, later revealed that the confusion surrounding the second booking was caused by mistaken identity due to the Croatia defender’s Australian accent.