Ulises set for World Cup odyssey

The stocky right-back endured a frustrating period at Villa Park, making just seven appearances as he suffered the indignity of being kept out of the side by Aaron Hughes. Having moved to Birmingham after attracting Graham Taylor's attention during the 2002 World Cup, the 32-year-old will be looking to score another move after Germany. He may have to make a swift impression, however, as Ecuador are unlikely to grace the competition for long as they face Poland and the hosts in the group stage. Worse still, they include former English-based strikers Agustin Delgado (Southampton: one goal in three seasons) and Ivan Kaviedes (Palace: no goals in one season) in their ranks while key forward Franklin Salas is out with a knee injury.