Position: Forward
Born: 03.10.78
Club: Schalke 04

Gerald Asamoah may not be the most freescoring of strikers but his speed, strength and power will cause no end of difficulties for Germany's rivals this summer.

Born in Ghana, the burly forward emigrated to Germany in his youth and chose to represent his adopted homeland in 2001 making his international debut against Slovakia, scoring in a 2-0 victory.

After becoming the first black player to represent Germany, Asamoah has slowly established himself as one of Jurgen Klinsmann's favorites although the 27-year-old's goal ratio needs to keep improving.

Aside from his brute force, Asamoah's major qualities lie with his ability to hold up the ball and distribute quickly but he is a versatile player, often deployed on the right to bomb down the wing.

Purchased by Schalke in 1999 after a starring role in Hannover's promotion-winning campaign, Asamoah has notched up nearly 200 appearances and has been once of the major factors behind the club's domestic cup successes in 2001 and 2001 and their Champions League qualifications.

Germany 2006 will be Asamoah's second World Cup following brief substitute showings in Japan and Korea but this time he will strive to hit the net and become the match-winner his talent suggests he should be.

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