Kyrgiakos should partner Traianos Dellas at the heart of the Greek defence after also playing an ever-present role in qualifying.

The 28-year-old, who missed out on Greece's 2004 success due to injury, can be viewed as the muscle man of the backline as he is noted for his fondness for a physical style of play.

Krygiakos is now at German side Frankfurt, but he spent one season in Scotland with Rangers and he attracted interest from Everton and Portsmouth during his time at Ibrox.

It is unlikely Krygiakos will ever be setting any 100-metre sprint records, but he more than makes up for his restricted mobility with a straightforward approach and ability to ruffle his opponents' feathers.

Werder Bremen star Diego will testify to this after the highly-rated Brazilian came off second best in his side's defeat to Frankfurt last season.

Diego was dismissed in the encounter after lashing out in frustration at Krygiakos's spoiling tactics.