Position: Defender
Born: 05.05.76
Club: Villarreal

Juan Pablo Sorin is a vastly experienced defender who adds steel and quality to the left side of the Argentina rearguard.

The Villarreal ace is likely to fill the void left by Gabriel Heinze's unfortunate cruciate injury, thought he's equally adept further forward in midfield.

Sorin has played for some of Europe's biggest clubs before finally finding his latest home at El Madrigal.

He had limited opportunities at Juventus in the mid-1990s before heading back to Argentina and River Plate.

Sorin then played in Brazil for Cruzeiro, before returning to Europe with Lazio during the 2002-03 season. He's since had spells with Barcelona and PSG before joining Villarreal last season.

Sorin's versatility means he's a full-back who can give opposing defences problems by getting forward at regular intervals.

And he managed four goals in just 21 La Liga starts last season.

A quality player who may not have the combative qualities of Heinze, but who still has plenty to offer.

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