Joel Matip, an indomitable defensive midfielder, has already made waves in the Bundesliga. Now the youngster is out to serve Cameroon.

Versatile young New Zealand defender Tommy Smith is set to complete a meteoric rise by appearing for the All Whites at South Africa 2010.

Germany defender Holger Badstuber has enjoyed a rapid rise from third-division football to the FIFA World Cup in little over 12 months.

Despite being uncapped at senior level, exciting forward Tim Matavz was called into Slovenia's squad for South Africa 2010.

It's hard to pick a fault with Kim Bo-Kyung, who has evolved into one of Korea Republic's most exciting and productive youngsters.

Radosav Petrovic, a midfielder colossus who has made his name with Partizan, had a known admirer in Serbia coach Radomir Antic.

Pak Sung-Hyok, a hard-working player who can operate as a centre-back or holding midfielder, is one of Korea DPR's brightest prospects.