Bayern Munich will deploy German international defender Markus Babbel in midfield in an effort to combat Ryan Giggs in the Champions' Cup final. The Germans see Giggs as one of Manchester United's main dangermen in tomorrow's final in Barcelona.

In an unusual step, Bayern coach Ottmar Hitzfeld named his side more than 48 hours in advance to give his players time to prepare.

Hitzfeld has opted for the surprise choice of Babbel on the right side of midfield instead of Thomas Strunz because of his defensive qualities.

"Giggs is more of a striker than a midfielder, hence we need stability in defence," explained Hitzfeld.

On the other flank Michael Tarnat will he handed the job of trying to contain David Beckham, who the Germans have dubbed the "flankengott" or crossing god.

Bayern are well aware of United's strengths down the flanks and intend to cut off the supply.

Babbel said: "It is important that the wide positions are closed off. "If we can do that then we will have a very good chance of winning."

He said: "I can't play hide and seek and that's why I have named my team." Hitzfeld, though, has left the door open for one or two changes and he said: "There is still the final training session tomorrow.

"Normally the only purpose of this is to get to know the pitch.

"On the other hand, Mario Basler was not in the team that played Manchester United in December and that happened after the last training session before the match at Old Trafford."

Hitzfeld tasted Champions' Cup glory two years ago with Borussia Dortmund, when they beat United in the semi-finals, and he claims nothing compares to it.

"To win the Champions' League is something very special," he said. "The whole world will be watching and the players can become heroes."

Just like United, Bayern are in confident mood going into the final in the Nou Camp. They have just won their league and are also on course for the treble.

Bayern Munich (3-4-3): Kahn; Matthaus, Linke, Kuffour; Babbel, Jeremies, Effenberg, Tarnat; Basler, Jancker, Zickler.