Luciano Spalletti has praised Milan midfielder Keisuke Honda, and says he is not surprised by the Japanese international’s improved form.
Spalletti coached Zenit St Petersburg in the Russian Premier League for just over four years, and faced the Milan No 10 on a number of occasions when he was plying his trade for CSKA Moscow.
Luciano Spalletti has praised Milan midfielder Keisuke Honda, and says he is not surprised by the Japanese international’s improved form.
Spalletti coached Zenit St Petersburg in the Russian Premier League for just over four years, and faced the Milan No 10 on a number of occasions when he was plying his trade for CSKA Moscow.
“When we faced him he scored goals,” Spalletti has told today’s edition of Tuttosport.
“What impressed me about him is that he never loses the ball. He knows when to keep things simple, but can also be more adventurous.
“He always knows what’s going on around him, in the sense that he always takes advantage of chances when they come.
“He’s always daring, but doesn’t do anything too risky and when he sees the goal he always puts the ball in places which are very difficult for goalkeepers.
“In the Russian Super Cup last year he scored two goals against us, both from free-kicks. He’s a fine player and a good lad, so it’s no surprise he’s doing well.
“I thought Italian football might prove difficult for him, but he’s established himself well.
“His relationship with Inzaghi? When certain relationships work, the results are a direct consequence of this.”