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The scouting report: Slovenia

Wednesday 23 June 2010 00:00 BST
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1 Samir Handanovic Goalkeeper

Handy name for a keeper and he's tall too, commands his penalty area and distributes well. A good shot-stopper. Plays for Udinese in Serie A.

2 Miso Brecko Right-back

One of Slovenia's best players of the tournament, who can play on either flank and in midfield. He likes to get forward and has good crossing ability.

4 Marko Suler Central defender

A substantial presence in defence and at 6ft 2in provides a big aerial threat. But he can make careless errors through lapses in concentration.

5 Bostjan Cesar Central defender

The West Bromwich defender has a reasonable turn of pace and distributes well, left-footed, if he has time. Less assured when put under pressure.

13 Bojan Jokic Left-back

Has plenty of pace, though he can disappoint when going forward with his wayward crossing. Was on loan from Sochaux to Serie A side Chievo.

8 Robert Koren Central midfield

The former West Bromwich player provides some high-tempo passing and rarely wastes possession. Not the strongest tackler, but scored against Algeria.

18 Alex Radosavljevic Centre midfield

Able to dictate the pace of the game well and command the midfield but tends to dwell on the ball too much and lose possession.

17 Andraz Kirm Left wing

Hard-working winger who plays his club football in Poland. Plays on left side of midfield but can feature on the right, too. Has pace to burn but limited technique.

The main threat: 10 Valter Birsa Right wing

The danger man. A left footer who likes to play on the right and cut in. Not the fastest across the turf, Birsa can lack pace and intensity when attempting to break forward into advanced areas to join in the attacking play. But a threat and may switch wings during the game to take on Glen Johnson. Plays for Auxerre in France.

9 Zlatan Ljubijankic Striker

Not the best finisher but is a physical presence up front and has reasonable pace. Scored against England in last September's friendly at Wembley.

11 Milivoje Novakovic Striker

A 6ft 3in target man who can hold the ball up effectively to bring in midfield runners. Will look to exploit any rustiness in Matthew Upson.

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