euro2008.uefa.com - Tournament - Players (original) (raw)

Born in Hungary, György Garics has laid a strong claim to the right-back role in Josef Hickersberger's team after some lively performances for both Austria and his Italian club SSC Napoli. A former Austrian champion with SK Rapid Wien, he should feel at home back in Vienna during UEFA EURO 2008™.

• Born in Hungarian town of Szombathely close to the Austrian border; moved to Vienna at age of 14.
• Graduated from Rapid youth and amateur teams, making Bundesliga debut in September 2002 under coach Hickersberger.
• Played 18 matches and scored one goal as Rapid won Austrian championship in 2004/05; made two UEFA Champions League appearances – both as a substitute – in 2005/06.
• Moved to Napoli for €700,000 in August 2006; part of team that secured promotion to Italian top flight; also won first caps for Austria, scoring on his debut against Liechtenstein in Vaduz (2-1).
• Helped Napoli to eighth place in 2007/08, enough for a UEFA Intertoto Cup spot; scored first Serie A goal in last home game of campaign – a 3-1 win over AC Milan that knocked Rossoneri out of UEFA Champions League qualifying position.

Did you know?
One day after receiving Austrian citizenship, Garics made his debut for the national Under-21 side.