Bastian Schweinsteiger, whose name we take to mean bountiful pig sticker, is an oft overlooked member of Bayern Munich and the German national team. Far from irrelevant, he’s the engine that drives forward Munich and Die Mannschaft both. He has the strength and stamina of a Michael Essien, and the drive to goal of a player like Gerrard, all while being mostly deployed on a wing. He’s a tenacious and intelligent defender, and a creative force in attack, and while he doesn’t score loads of goals, the finishing movement often begins with a smarty picked pass from the man.

Perhaps you remember Maradona’s taunting before their teams met in last summer’s World Cup: “What’s the matter, Schweinsteiger? Are you nervoushh?” Schweini then completely controlled the midfield to help craft a 4-0 victory over the outclassed Argentines.

With Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery injured so far this season, the 26 yr old midfielder has (finally) been highlighted as top class player. The transfer market looming, it’s Schweini who is drawing attention from Europe’s top clubs. Der Kaiser wants him to stay in Munich, but the lure of foreign leagues may trump winning a sixth Bundesliga title.