Alexander, who writes for the national daily newspaper Kleine Zeitung, says Aufhauser has a key role to play for the Austrians in Vienna on Saturday week.

"He has always been a fighter, but after being a defensive midfielder, he has now developed his playing style to become something of a playmaker," said Niggas. "He has become an offensive player who has emerged as a leading figure over the last few years."

Aufhauser (pictured left) skippered Graz AK to victory in the Champions League at Liverpool on Tuesday night - the first time that a team from Austria has won in England.

Niggas believes Aufhauser’s performance at Anfield under-lined his development as a player. He said: "Rene proved once again, that he is no longer a defensive-minded rugged fighter concerning defence, but that he also developed playmaking qualities.

"He had been a fighter in Salzburg too but proved himself as a true leader on the field with GAK, where coach Walter Schachner really boosted his development.

"It is hard to find a leading player in the Austria side as there are no real stars, but Aufhauser is the one who plays all the matches, so he is the darling of the coach."

Aufhauser has made 18 appearances for Austria and scored two goals.

Niggas expects Austria to adopt a cautious approach when they face Sven Goran Eriksson’s men. With a 4-4-2 formation, he does not expect Hans Krankl to take any risks. "I would say against England, it will be rather defensive," he said.

"Krankl is well aware of the threat posed by players like David Beckham and Michael Owen and he will be trying to stop them playing."