Fabio Cannavaro is one of the best defenders in the world, and his curriculum makes extraordinary reading

The rapid and aggressive Neapolitan defender has refined his technique and sharpened his sense of position over the years

He commands the defence with authority and tenacity

He can play both in a three-man defence (as he has often done for the national team) and with four at the back (with Napoli and Parma)

He was a ball boy of Napoli when small

Cannavaro has excellent experience in European club competitions

He won a UEFA Cup in 1998/99 with Parma

He has signed a four-year contract for Inter which will expire in 2006.

Fabio Cannavaro played every minute of every match in the qualifying campaign and has appeared in every match at EURO 2000.