Manuel who?

Had you said a year ago that Bayern Munich would be without Manuel Neuer for almost the entire season, many would have considered it a huge blow to their hopes of becoming European champions.

However, thanks to Sven Ulreich, Bayern haven't missed Neuer, with his former back-up now showing his credentials as a first-team option.

Widely considered to be the best goalkeeper in the world before breaking his foot several times in succession, Neuer is a star with a profile that very few goalkeepers can match. However, Ulreich has stepped into his rather large shoes with an impressive level of calmness and even more impressive level of performance.

Several limp outings towards the end of last season didn't put Jupp Henckes off entrusting the 29-year-old with the gloves and the former Stuttgart man has repaid the confidence show in him and then some.

Ulreich has conceded just 34 goals in 41 games in all competitions, saving three penalties and even providing an assist against Celtic in the Champions League Group Stage.

Having previously represented his country at U21 level, Germany boss Joachim Low has confirmed that he is keeping a close eye on Ulreich with a view to including him in the 'Die Mannschaft' squad for this summer's World Cup, some turnaround for someone who almost certainly wasn't even on the radar last summer.

With Neuer missing and Bayern set to face the European champions, it is a testament to Ulreich's impact that no one is concerned about him donning the gloves on Wednesday night.