David Odonkor

David Odonkor (born 21 February 1984) is a German former professional footballer who played as a right winger.

He started playing professionally with Borussia Dortmund, appearing in 90 competitive matches. Since leaving Dortmund, however, Odonkor's career was blighted by injury. He played for Real Betis in Spain, Alemannia Aachen in the German second tier and Hoverla Uzhhorod in Ukraine before retiring. When fit, he is known for his top speed and acceleration.

Odonkor represented the Germany national team in one World Cup and one European Championship.

Club career

Borussia Dortmund

Odonkor was born in Bünde, North Rhine-Westphalia, to a German mother and a Ghanaian father. A product of Borussia Dortmund's youth ranks, he made his first-team debut on 3 March 2002, having recently turned 18, coming on as a second-half substitute in a 1–1 home draw against FC St. Pauli. After splitting the following season with the first and second teams he was definitely promoted for 2003–04, helping Borussia to a final sixth place in the Bundesliga.

In the 2005–06 season Odonkor was everpresent, only missing one league game. On 26 November 2005, he scored and assisted alike in a 2–1 success at 1. FC Nürnberg and, subsequently, he attracted attention from Real Betis, eventually signing for a €6 million fee. He left Borussia after two additional appearances in the 2006–07 season.

Real Betis

Odonkor's first season at Betis was unassuming, as he appeared in only 13 La Liga matches due to a serious knee injury. The second year began promisingly, but another knee ailment forced him out for another three months.