Position: Midfielder
Born: 07.08.79
Club: Guadalajara

Juan Pablo Rodriguez has only recently arrived on the international scene, but his performances suggest he is here to stay.

Now 26, Rodriguez came through the Atlas youth system before remarkably being made captain at 21 - but it was his mature performances in central midfield during the 1999 Copa Libertadores which caused much interest.

After failing to deliver the standard which many expected, he then reformed his style and became a defensive midfielder for Guadalajara, subsequently helping Chivas reach the final of the 2005 Clausura Tournament.

An intelligent footballer who is calm on the ball as well as being an excellent reader of the game off it, Rodriguez's persistent battling often wins possession back for his side as do his well-timed interceptions.

Having played in three of Mexico's Confederations Cup matches last summer and five in the World Cup qualifying campaign, he must feel a pivotal role in Germany awaits him.

• 1 Oswaldo Sanchez
• 6 Gerardo Torrado