Christopher ZELLER (Germany)

Christopher Zeller - Germany 
Date of Birth:  14 September 1984 (23)
Position: Forward

The younger brother of Germany defender Phillip, Christopher Zeller is not only the golden boy of German hockey but also one of the most recognisable players in the sport. A lucrative sponsorship deal with Adidas has placed him alongside the likes of David Beckham as a poster boy for their “impossible is nothing” advertising campaign.

However, Zeller has something that Beckham may never have – a World Cup Winners medal. Away from all the glitz and glamour, the truth of the matter is that Christopher Zeller is an unbelievably good hockey player, and quite possibly the best striker in the world.

He made his debut for Germany in 2003 as a fresh-faced 18 year old, becoming a regular fixture in the side that took Bronze at Athens 2004.  It was a promising beginning for a young man at the start of his career, but few could have foreseen the impact that he would make just two years later.

The 2006 World Cup in Mönchengladbach was the stage and Christopher Zeller was the star, scoring twice in the final against Australia as Germany won 4-3. Zeller was simply sensational throughout the tournament, and was named as FIH Young Player of the Year.

His club form has also been impressive. In 2006 he agreed to join HC Bloemendaal for one season, and was named best player in the Dutch competition after amassing a staggering 47 league goals. When added to the goals he scored for Bloemendaal both in Europe and in the Dutch play-offs, the total exceeded 60.

Over the last 12 months Zeller has had his problems with injury, forcing Germany coach Markus Weise to only play his prized asset when absolutely necessary. Regardless of this, the striker is expected to be fully fit and at his breathtaking best in Beijing.