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They set the tone for the game, and their presence brings in the much-coveted glam factor. These men know their moves well, and when they are on the field they take charge like none other. Meet the stars we think can make a difference in this year’s Euro 2012, not to forget, also score high on the ‘oomph’ quotient

Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney, England
Rooney is short-tempered, but this man can be forgiven for his ‘private affairs’, when he steps on the field and changes games. He is suspended for the first two English fixtures and his presence is sorely missed. Let’s hope he lives to play for the cup. And England cannot be complete without Gerrard. He has remained a favourite among Liverpool fans for eons now. He is one of the most cherished players in England. “If the world thinks Messi is the best, well, Gerrard is an example that it’s not true. Gerrard is the best player in the world. He is the god of football. He is the only guy capable of taking charge and changing the pace of a game,” says ardent fan and England supporter, Dylon Pinto, a piantballer.
Did you know: Gerrard has won every possible major trophy with Liverpool except the Premier League title.

Arjen Robben and Robin Van Persie, Netherlands
The best left-footer, Robben has been a favoruite, be it when he plays for clubs (Bayern Munich) or when he is representing his country. And while Robben does steal the show, fellow striker Robin comes close up. “Robin is in good form now and his goal scoring feats need a special mention. He was one of the highest scorers in the recently held EPL series. I’m sure, there is a lot we can expect from him this year,” says Rahul K, student.
Did you know: Robben: After Robben’s contributions with Bayern Munich in 2010, he was named Footballer of the Year in Germany, the only Dutch player to ever win the award. Robin: He has 48 Premier League goals over the past two seasons, 10 more than any other player.

Andres Iniesta and Fernando Torres, Spain
Yes, it will have to be a tie. Of course, there are others like Xavi and Iker Casillas, but these two men have stood the test of time. Manager Josep Guardiola is said to have once told Xavi: “You will retire me, but Iniesta will retire us both.” He is not kidding. “They are a team, these two, Torres and Iniesta. They are excellent with their attack, defense and passes. You know for a fact that, when they are on the field, there is energy, excitement and everything that football is all about,” says Praveen R, who has always been a hardcore Spain supporter.
Did you know: Iniesta has 10 career goals for Spain, including a game-winning goal in extra time at 2010 World Cup final. Torres also called El Nino was the youngest to become a captain at the age of 19.

Lucas Podolski, Germany
He recently joined Arsenal and has publicly spoken about his newfound confidence. His team is also the hot favourite this season. “You can see that he is definitely in charge. Moving to Arsenal also means, he has a lot to prove in this Euro Cup. There is a lot of pressure on him. He is a good player, I’m sure he’ll live up to the expectations,” says Divith S, whose support lies with Germany this year.
Did you know: In the 2010/11 season, Podo-lski scored his 50th Bun-desliga goal against Hannover 96 in March 2011.

Christiano Ronaldo, Portugal
His lethal skills stand incomparable. This stunning Real Madrid striker is a hot favourite even if many don’t like his demeanour. “Christiano is the winner of three Premier League titles, a Champions League title and he even won the inaugural FIFA Puskas Award for ‘most beautiful goal.’ But what’s cooler is he is one of the best looking footballers. There is an oomph factor and attitude in this guy that you can’t help but adore him for,” says Bhakthi V, a student.
Did you know: Ronaldo scored 86 La Liga goals over the past two seasons, more than any other player. He scored 61 goals with his right foot, 14 with his left foot and 11 with his head.