Tomasz Hajto - tough-tackling defender. (Allsport)

Position: Defender
Born: 16.10.72
Club: Schalke 04

Hajto is widely acknowledged as one of the best defenders in the Bundesliga thanks to his uncompromising style.

The tough-tackling stopper built his reputation in the Polish leagues with Gornik before joining Duisburg in 1997, the year after he had made his debut for the national team.

There he helped them finish eighth in successive seasons, reaching a cup final along the way, before leaving for Schalke following Duisburg's relegation.

At Schalke, Hajto has found his name in the referee's notebook more often than not - picking up 16 bookings in 1998/99 to propel him to the top of the 'Bad-Boys' League.

But his admirers are quick to point to his long throw - an awesome attacking weapon - and his fierce shot should the criticism become too harsh.