Player Profile - Arne Friedrich

A confident, and competent, defender, Arne Friedrich has cemented his position in the Germany team over the past few seasons.

Likely to start at right back during the World Cup, Friedrich provides coach Jurgen Klinsmann with a trustworthy defensive option.

"Arne brings good qualities with him. He is an immensely quick player and very versatile. He can operate in three out of the back four positions."
Dieter Hoeness

During his teenage years, Friedrich played for FC Gutersloh and SC Verl in the regional leagues as he also undertook his national service.

Upon completion of his national service in the summer of 2000, Friedrich opted to concentrate on a professional football career and signed for Arminia Bielefeld after rejecting an offer from Borussia Monchengladbach.

Friedrich was soon playing for the German Under-21 side and his consistent displays at Bielefeld earned him a move to Hertha Berlin in 2002.

Success with Hertha quickly followed as he won the League Cup and then made his senior debut for Germany a month after the World Cup when he played against Bulgaria.

He then forced his way into Rudi Voller's starting line-up for the bulk of the European Championship qualifiers and kept his place for the tournament in Portugal.

Friedrich played all three games at Euro 2004 as Germany crashed out in the first round, while he has subsequently been a regular in Jurgen Klinsmann's plans in the build-up to the World Cup.

The robust stopper, who can also play at centre half, remains an integral member of Hertha's squad, although he has been linked with Bayern Munich.

With over 30 caps to his name, Friedrich's defensive qualities mean he will be a valued figure in the hosts' challenge to win the World Cup for a fourth time.