The head of the Bayer 04 youth section Juergen Gelsdorf says that Stefan Reinartz appears to have been born to play in central defence. “The boy is good going forward, can anticipate situations very well and therefore almost always avoids committing fouls in tackles.” At the U-19 European Championships in the Czech Republic, Stefan was in the Germany line-up from the start of every game in every game and produced excellent performances.

This was capped by an excellent flying header in the 2-1 win against Hungary. “I think I improved my game from one match to the next,” declares 6 foot central defender who thoroughly enjoyed his time at the European Championships. “The semi-final against the Czech Republic was fantastic both in terms of the atmosphere and the drama.” And the fact that there were five Leverkusen players in the squad made it more fun, says Stefan who has represented Germany at every level since the under 16’s.

But Stefan did not have a long time to enjoy his success at the European Championships as he went straight on to the second Bayer 04 training camp to take at least some part in the preparations the new season. He is on the verge of his first season in the Werkself first-team squad but as he is about to take his A levels and doesn't expect to get too many games this term. “ But nevertheless I'm proud of being part of it and I want to improve as much as I can in training,” declares the enthusiastic poker player and rock fan. His main role model as a footballer is Juan. “ He is not as strong as Lucio but impresses with his cleverness on the ball and his fantastic positional play,” enthuses Stefan about the former Leverkusen player who is now at AS Roma.

Stefan Reinartz wants to make a career out of it stop Juergen Gelsdorf is convinced they has the ability. “He is a very intelligent lad who can make it to a higher level.” and perhaps he is somebody who was born to be a central defender...

Position: Defender

Squad number: 33

Date of birth: 1 January 1989

Nationality: German

Height: 1.9 m (6 ft 3 in)

Weight: 85 kg

Joined club: 1999

Previous clubs: Bayer 04 youth