Position: Defender
Born: 19.08.73
Club: Inter Milan

A key member of the Inter Milan side, Marco Materazzi has even captained the team in Javier Zanetti's absence.

Renowned for his free-kick taking , Materazzi scored 12 goals for Perugia in the 2000-01 season before joining Inter, where he has established himself as an important member of the national side.

An aggressive defender who is good in the air but comfortable with the ball at his feet, unfortunately Materazzi can often be too aggressive.

However, he is a solid defender who poses a good goal threat both from his free-kicks and in the air from other set-pieces.

Fabio Cannavaro and Alessandro Nesta are Italy's first-choice defensive pairing but should either get injured, Materazzi will grab his chance with both hands.

• 13 Alessandro Nesta
• 21 Andrea Pirlo
• 9 Luca Toni
• 10 Francesco Totti
• Christian Vieri
• 19 Gianluca Zambrotta