Andrey Arshavin

A player whose star has been on the wane for a couple of seasons, but he remains a talismanic figure for his country and will be determined to recapture his best form this summer.

A player whose star has been on the wane for a couple of seasons, Andrey Arshavin remains a talismanic figure for his country and will be determined to recapture his best form this summer. The mercurial playmaker was at the height of his powers in Euro 2008 as he produced a couple of dazzling displays to help Russia reach the semi-finals. He sealed an eagerly-anticipated big-money move to Arsenal a few months later and initially flourished in English football, with his flair making him a fans' favourite at Emirates Stadium. However, Arshavin's popularity has been on a steep downward curve for at least 18 months as supporters have become exasperated with a perceived lack of effort, which in turn has affected his confidence. Arsene Wenger decided to let the diminutive attacker return to his homeland in February to link up with former club Zenit St Petersburg on loan. The purpose of the deal was to get Arshavin playing more regularly again and he could be in ideal shape to roll back the years by the time the tournament starts and inspire Russia to another successful campaign. The talent is undoubtedly still there and Wenger will be watching with interest as he mulls over whether Arshavin still has a future in North London. Russia are a more workmanlike team than they were in Austria and Switzerland and if Arshavin is not in the mood to help out that could really bring down the whole side. But playing for his country tends to bring out the best in him and the spark he possesses could transform likely also-rans to potential challengers. It can take something special to unlock defences at international level and Arshavin's attributes as a gifted dribbler, clever passer and fine finisher will mean he is the danger man as far as the opposition are concerned.