| |  |  |
| | Mou: Santon is the new Facchetti |
Sunday 1 March, 2009 |
|
Jose Mourinho is so impressed by teenager Davide Santon that he has compared him to Inter legend Giacinto Facchetti.
The youngster was brought in during an injury crisis and has earned his place at left-back, including a strong performance against Manchester United on Tuesday.
“Santon is a phenomenon,” grinned a very proud Mourinho ahead of tonight's clash with Roma.
“All he needed was a Coach to have faith in him and give him several opportunities. Three or four months ago, when there was talk of fielding him against Panathinaikos or Werder Bremen, I said the lad would play when his time came and not as a gift.
“I have never given anyone a chance as a present. I decided to play him in the Coppa Italia against Roma and then stuck with him. After he shone in the derby, I realised he could face Manchester United.”
Paolo Maldini made his first derby appearance before Santon was even born, but they both shared the pitch in 2009.
“Davide only needed a chance, the rest is down to his character and that counts for a great deal,” continued Mourinho.
“He is a great player and in 10 or 15 years, when he becomes the new Javier Zanetti, Maldini or Facchetti with 200 or 300 Inter caps under his belt, in that moment I'll remember his debut.”
The comparison with Facchetti is a prestigious one indeed, as the former President and full-back has a place of honour in the Nerazzurri history books.
“In my view Santon is a right-back who can also play in midfield, principally in the position currently taken by Zanetti.
“His versatility will be very important in his career. For example, Beppe Bergomi played as a centre-back, on the right or left and now Zanetti can play pretty much anywhere. All this is because they have character and confidence.
“I believe an intelligent player knows how to adapt to different situations. Santon still needs to improve, obviously, and be a little less naïve at times.
“But these are details when discussing an 18-year-old who just needs to keep working hard.”
| |
|
| Mou wields axe against Roma
Jose Mourinho has dropped Julio Cruz and Nelson Rivas for Sunday’s showdown and rested Cristian Chivu. “Roma are one of the best.” More
Jose: Vieira was not 'honest'
Jose Mourinho has blasted Patrick Vieira for complaining he was dropped against Manchester United. “He should be honest with you.” More
Spalletti: It's all Panucci's fault
Luciano Spalletti has forgiven Christian Panucci – sort of. “He apologised, but with a serious delay. He should’ve done so immediately.” More
Totti and Panucci ready for Inter
Francesco Totti and Christian Panucci are ready to face Inter tomorrow evening, but Roma look to be without David Pizarro. More |
|
| |
| |
