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A familiar English duo feature among the star performers from the first round of Champions League group games.

Goalkeeper: Karim Zaza (Aalborg)

Got the Danes off to a perfect start by saving Barry Robson's penalty. Maintained his cool as Celtic were kept at bay at Parkhead.

Right-back: Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid)

Critics say Ramos always has a mistake in him. He also has a goal in him, and grabbed Real's opener against Bate.

Centre-back: Traianos Dellas (Anorthosis Famagusta)

The Greek Euro 2004 winner might be nearing the end of his career, but what he lacks in pace he more than makes up in intelligence.

Centre-back: Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus)

Smart and secure - Chiellini looks like Italy's next great defender. A worthy heir to the likes of Maldini and Cannavaro.

Left-back: Joan Capdevila (Villarreal)

A major part of Villarreal's rearguard action as Manchester United were frustrated. Also provided an outlet going forward.

Right midfield: Mancini (Internazionale)

Despite his consistently excellent performances, the Brazilian doesn't get the respect he deserves. Tuesday's goal should help.

Central midfield: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)

Has won more European games single-handedly than most people have had hot dinners. His first goal in Marseille was a pearler.

Central midfield: Frank Lampard (Chelsea)

Should never play with Gerrard in a real team, but Lampard deserves his spot here for an inspirational display as Chelsea thrashed Bordeaux.

Left midfield: Xavi (Barcelona)

The Euro 2008 Player of the Tournament has picked up where he left off in the summer - a magnificent player.

Striker: Sergio Aguero (Atletico Madrid)

Aguero is the reason Atletico have improved since the departure of Fernando Torres, and scored twice on his Champions League debut.

Striker: Alberto Gilardino (Fiorentina)

After enduring a nightmare spell at Milan, Gilardino is back on song and his double at Lyon should really have ensured a win.

Alex Chick / Eurosport