Tim Borowski profile

Of a similar mould to Michael Ballack, Tim Borowski could be handed the job of giving his international team-mate the licence to forage forward at the World Cup.

With Borowski adept at playing a variety of midfield roles, he may asked to operate more defensively to allow Ballack greater freedom to link with the attack.

"He is able to influence play, has a great shot and can stamp his presence on a game. The only problem is that Bremen are probably not prepared to let him go."
Bayern Munich supremo Karl-Heinz Rummenigge

Borowski is a product of the Werder Bremen youth academy and made his first-team debut for the club during the 2001/02 season.

Like many of the current Germany squad, Borowski was handed his international debut within 12 months of making his Bundesliga baptism.

He featured in the friendly against Bulgaria immediately after the 2002 World Cup, having previously made 15 appearances for the Under-21 side.

But after picking up his second cap in October the same year, Borowski had to wait until after the 2004 European Championship before being able to add to his collection.

Borowski was overlooked for the tournament in Portugal, despite playing a key role in Bremen's 2004 double success as he scored twice in the cup final win over Alemannia Aachen.

The 26-year-old has since remained an integral member of Jurgen Klinsmann's squad as he can play either a holding role or as a playmaker.

He was the Bundesliga's Player of the Month last November and his imposing presence, allied to fine all-round skills, have drawn comparisons to Ballack.

Indeed, he has been mooted as a replacement for Ballack at Bayern Munich, although the German champions initially denied an interest in the midfielder.

With a contract at Bremen until 2009, it is unlikely he would be allowed to leave cheaply, in any case, and Borowski has the potential to be an influential player for Germany, particularly after he was only handed a brief outing in last year's Confederations Cup.