Born in Ghana, Asamoah became the first African-born player to represent Germany when he made his debut last year.

His pace and strength first caught the eye at German Second Division side BV Werder Hannover before he moved to rivals Hannover 96 in 1998.

He continued to be a success in front of goal there and earned a move to Schalke in the Bundesliga in 1999 with whom he has played in this season's Champions League.

Asamoah suffers from a heart condition which means that medical equipment must be kept pitchside whenever he plays. Fortunately his game has not been affected by it.