Ricken's work ethic has won him the plaudits of his demanding club coach Matthias Sammer.

Voeller, likewise, is a fan of Ricken's mercurial talents, although his moments of inspiration have only just begun to resurface.

He stamped his authority on the sport with a sensational strike for Borussia Dortmund in a Champions League victory over Juventus five years ago.

But he has yet to score at international level or match the sort of promise he has shown in the Bundesliga and in Europe.

He owed his place in the squad to Sebastian Deisler's withdrawal but is the only fit outfield player yet to figure.