Ones to watch - Hugo Lloris (France)

Hugo Lloris has been linked with moves to some of the world's biggest clubs over the last few months after excelling since a transfer from hometown side OGC Nice to the former perennial champions of France, Olympique Lyonnais. Though both his domestic and international side slump after periods of domination, Lloris has blossomed into the best 'keeper in Lique 1 and also his country's first choice.

His form over his two seasons at the Stade de Gerland have earned him recognition from many as the best young goalkeeper in the world. In South Africa he'll be the youngest member of a French side which still relies too heavily on its experienced troops. His challengers for the number one jersey come in the shape of Cédric Carrasso - once loaned to Crystal Palace but now at Bordeaux by way of a good season at Toulouse, and Steve Mandanda - athletic, a maker of camera saves, and recently linked with a move to Manchester United.

There hasn't been a 'keeper yet who hasn't been accused of having chinks in his armour. Lloris' catching can be hit and miss, and like most he can suffer the odd rush of blood to the head, but overall he makes fewer unforced errors than any young goalie you're likely to see, and like the man he most reminds me of, Real Madrid's Iker Casillas, he's simply a cool customer and generally unshakable. A huge presence, brave, vocal, and with cat-like reflexes, the fact that his role in the French side is the least of their worries says as much about his reputation as it does their decline.

Though France's form over the last year has been quite poor, they're relatively tight at the back. Three of the four which will shield Lloris ply their trade in the Premier League - Patrice Evra of Manchester United, and Arsenal duo Bacari Sagna and William Gallas, the latter for the time being at least. Sébastien Squillaci is most likely to be the man to make up the back line, with Sevilla team-mate Julien Escudé now out of favour with Domenech. Jérémy Toulalan had been tipped to move back from midfield until Lassana Diarra was ruled out of the tournament with a stomach injury.

Jean-Michel Aulas, chairman of Lyon, has somewhat fancifully slapped a £25m valuation on his prize asset. Given the inflated state of the transfer market perhaps you can't blame him, but it might be an idea to not try and build the boy up too much just yet. His main rival in the best young goalkeeper in Europe stakes is now David de Gea, who has just enjoyed a fantastic season at Atletico Madrid. Unlike Lloris, de Gea won't be making the trip to Africa, and sadly for him he has three of the best five 'keepers in world football ahead of him, but it should be remembered that the man who now plays second fiddle to him - Sergio Asenjo, was rated the best of those coming through this time last year.

by Ben Jarni