The Backnang-born defender had seemed destined for the top, until injuries and an unsuccesful stint in Spain. But his recovery is underway
The German full-back looked set for a glittering career when he forced his way into his country’s squad for their ill-fated Euro 2004 campaign, however, a series of lengthy injuries has blighted his progress and he arrived at Celtic Park for a fee of £1.9m in January 2008 with plenty still to prove.
The attacking right-back began his career at VfB Stuttgart before signing for Spanish giants Seville in June 2006.
Hinkel made his Celtic debut in the Scottish Cup against Stirling Albion and scored his first goal for the club in a 3-0 win over Hearts shortly after.