England's injury crisis in the build-up to this World Cup has been well-documented. But it is not just Sven-Goran Eriksson who has seen his plans thrown into chaos.
On the eve of this year's tournament, BBC Sport Online profiles some of the big names who are missing.
There will be plenty of talent on display in the Far East - yet those who are missing could form a World Cup absentee XI quite capable of winning the trophy.
Striker Emile Mpenza has been battling with a groin strain for many months, and finally gave up hope of making the World Cup in mid-May.
His 10 goals in 30 games for the Belgium mean his absence will leave coach Robert Waseige desperately short of attacking options.
Gary Neville was ruled out after becoming the second England player in a matter of weeks to break a metatarsal in his foot. Unlike David Beckham, however, Neville did not have enough time to recover.
Steven Gerrard limped out of Liverpool's final Premiership game with, it seemed initially, a minor strain. But it soon became apparent that he would require surgery on his groin.
Even a team as packed with talent as France will feel the loss of Zinedine Zidane.
The midfield legend could miss the champions' opening two games with a thigh strain.
The French are also missing the considerable talents of Arsenal's Robert Pires, who suffered cruciate ligament damage in the Gunners' FA Cup win over Newcastle.
For once, the "lucky old Germans" tag has not rung true. First Jens Nowotny, then Sebastian Deisler were ruled out with knee trouble.
Influential Bayer Leverkusen captain Nowotny damaged knee ligaments in his side's Champions League semi-final against Manchester United.
Playmaker Deisler's problem knee gave out during a friendly against Austria.
While other teams bemoan their luck with injuries, Roy Keane's absence is an entirely different scenario.