Ashley Jackson

DOB: 27/08/1987 Event: Hockey Position: Midfielder Flag: GBR

Ashley Jackson will undoubtedly be one of Great Britain's key players as they attempt to finally emulate the heroes of Seoul. The men's hockey team haven't won an Olympic medal of any colour since Sean Kerly and Imran Sherwani shot to national sporting stardom by leading their side to a famous gold against Germany back in 1988 - but talented young players such as Jackson have the potential to end the long wait for glory. The attacking midfielder, who will turn 25 during London 2012, made his Olympic debut in Beijing having quickly established himself in the England set-up but it was a year later when he truly made his mark on the international scene. The East Grinstead star scored twice in the final of the 2009 EuroHockey Nations Championship as England beat Germany to claim their first continental crown while he was also named player of the tournament for his eight goals. Jackson's efforts also saw him presented with the World Young Player of the Year award in 2009 and he's gone on to further enhance his reputation. Dubbed the 'David Beckham of hockey', Kent-born Jackson was part of the England side that lost heartbreaking bronze medal matches at both the Commonwealth Games and World Cup in 2010 although he could be proud of his individual performances. Jackson suffered a hip injury at the end of 2010 which forced him out for eight months but he'll be fit in time for England's defence of their European title in Germany later in 2011.