Nastasic was a surprise signing by Manchester City on transfer deadline day in August 2012, brought in to replace the error-prone Stefan Savic as a back-up defender.

But this Serbia international was signed as much as a player of immense potential as one to make up the numbers.

Despite playing only one full season in Serie A for Fiorentina, his performances have led to perhaps inevitable comparisons with fellow Serb Nemanja Vidic and City will hope he grows into a player of similar ability.

He came through the youth ranks at Partizan Belgrade before being signed by Fiorentina for &euro,2.5 million in the summer of 2011. Just 12 months later the Viola were able to cash in on their investment as City paid €15 million to bring him to the Premier League.

Strengths: The modern day defender needs to be able to use the ball as well as clear it and there is no doubt Nastasic is a ball-playing centre-back. He is rarely beaten for pace and is not easily intimidated by opposition strikers.

Weaknesses: Nastasic must be careful not to switch off with concentration perhaps one of his shortcomings. He was partly to blame for Karim Benzema's goal on his City debut against Real Madrid.

Career high: Making his full international debut in an international friendly against Cyprus in February 2012.

Career low: Failing to make the breakthrough at Partizan and being loaned out to Teleoptik

Style: Strong, fast, calm on the ball.

Quotes: "The football is of a high level, but there is also a physical side and that suits the kind of player I am. As a defender here you have to be aggressive. This is what I have wanted all my life." Nastasic, September, 2012.

Trivia: Nastasic moved to Man City as a replacement for Stefan Savic - both players having played for Partizan Belgrade.