Initially brought in as cover, the Frenchman has established himself as a regular starter through a series of reliable performances
Born in Chartres in Northern France, defender Julien Escude began his career at AS Cannes in the French second division. Quickly establishing himself in the first-team during the 1998-99 season, he attracted the attention of Rennes, and was snapped up by manager Paul Le Guen.
An elegant and astute centre-half, Escude seamlessly fitted in to Le Guen’s side and went on to make 117 appearances. In 2003, Escude signed for AFC Ajax, playing a considerable part in the club’s successful Eredivisie campaign during the 2003-04 season. However, the following season proved more problematic and Escude could no longer be guaranteed a permanent place on the team sheet. Midway through the 2005-06 season, Ajax struck a deal with Spanish side Sevilla and Escude put pen to paper in January 2006.
Initially brought in to cover the injured Aitor Ocio, Escude began to assert himself through a number of reliable performances, playing a vital role in Sevilla’s successes during 2006-07. A continual presence in Sevilla’s back four despite missing over half of the 2007-08 season, Escude has also figured for the French national side. However, since making his debut in October 2006, Escude is yet to feature in a major tournament for his country.