Having twice torn a cruciate ligament, Katzer will feel lucky enough just to be playing let alone representing his country in the European Championship in front of his home fans.
Putting his double recovery down to his "iron will", Katzer began his career with ASK Erlaa before his first domestic break with a move to Admira Wacker, who he would play nigh on 100 games for.
A move to the bright lights of Vienna followed with Rapid in 2004 and he has gone on to make himself an integral part of the squad there.
His first season with Rapid remains his best, though, as his efforts in helping them win the Bundesliga title saw him named in the Team of the Year by three national newspapers, with one also awarding him Best Defender.
Able to play either as a traditional left-back or pushed forward into his preferred left-wing-back role, Katzer is naturally strong defensively but is also a creative presence when pressed forward.
Links with Aston Villa surfaced a couple of years ago and while nothing came of them, he still has time on his side and could yet make the break into one of Europe's 'bigger' leagues.
















Austria