POLAND

Ranking 8. Last time Did not qualify.

Manager Adam Nawalka — former midfielder was one of the stars of Poland’s team at the 1978 World Cup and now returns to carry the hopes of his nation again. They didn’t qualify last time, but Nawalka did take Poland to the quarter-finals of Euro 2016. He is something of a perfectionist, so nothing will be left to chance.

They’re a bit like Tottenham — reliant on one man to score the goals.

Key man Robert Lewandowski (right) — no surprises here but Poland would be very ordinary indeed if not for the Bayern Munich striker. He comes to Russia in the form of his life, having scored a remarkable 41 goals for Bayern last season. At 29, the striker is at the peak of his powers... and ripe for a big money move to Real Madrid after the tournament.

Rising star Piotr Zielinski — described by his former club boss at Napoli, Maurizio Sarri, as the ‘new Kevin de Bruyne’ there are certainly glimpses in the way he can pick a pass. Moved to Italy as a teenager and has developed into a first-team regular at Napoli having previously played for Udinese and Empoli.

Prospects Would back them to get through the group, but anything beyond

the last 16 is a big bonus.