Silvestre - great ability (Allsport).

Position: Defender
Born: 09.08.77
Club: Manchester United

Hugely promising defender whose best chance of a World Cup place with France would appear to be in central defence.

Began his career with Rennes in France, before catching the attention of Italian giants Inter Milan.

Moved to the San Siro, but found opportunities limited there.

One of his few outings came against Manchester United in the Champions League quarter-final second leg in March 1999, and he must have impressed Sir Alex Ferguson.

Later that year Ferguson swooped to pip Liverpool in the race for Silvestre's signature and bring him to Old Trafford.

Ironically he made his United debut in a 3-2 win at Anfield.

Struggled somewhat in his first season in Manchester as he was mainly deployed in central defence.

He took time to build up a good understanding with Jaap Stam, but his footballing ability shone through.

Has since made the left-back berth his own, ousting veteran Denis Irwin and England international Phil Neville.

An excellent all-round footballer who has blinding pace and great touch on the ball.

Does suffer from the occasional mental lapse but does have all the ability in the world.

His form at club level has seen him force his way into the France team, where he's mainly figured at centre-half.

Unlikely to dislodge Bixente Lizarazu at left-back just yet, but will be cover for Lilian Thuram and Marcel Desailly in the centre.