BBC SPORT | Football | Euro 2004 | Sweden | Players to Watch (original) (raw)

	FACTFILE Born: 03/09/1977 Club: Aston Villa Position: Defender Debut: 23/02/00 v Italy

Tough-tackling Aston Villa defender Olof Mellberg played every minute of Sweden's qualifying campaign, during which the Scandinavians conceded just three goals.

After turning down the chance to become a tennis pro, Mellberg quickly made a name for himself as a promising defender with Gullspangs, Degerfors IF and then AIK Solna.

Mellberg won a league title with Solna in 1998 before beginning a three-year spell with Spanish side Racing Santander.

He joined Aston Villa for �5m in 2001 as Gareth Southgate's replacement and was an instant hit, ending the season as the Villa supporters' Player of the Year.

Mellberg captained his country during qualifying and it was his headed goal in the win against Poland that booked Sweden's place in Portugal.

Versatile enough to play at centre-back or right-back, Mellberg will have to be at his best if the Swedes are to progress to the knock-out stages.

Did you know? Mellberg won 36 caps for Sweden's Under-21 side.

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