Former Italian international striker Christian Vieri says he has been impressed with the emergence of Marco Verratti.
Former Italian international striker Christian Vieri says he has been impressed with the emergence of Marco Verratti.
The playmaker, 21, was snapped up by Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2012 after they paid Serie B champions Pescara €12m for him.
“I think Verratti is a very strong player, even if he is still very young,” the 40-year-old told Bein Sport.
“He’s good in the defensive phase too, he has good reflexes and some very good technique.
“He has a great future ahead of him, in my opinion, and he was a great signing for Paris Saint-Germain.”
Vieri spent his career at a variety of clubs, including a short stint with French outfit Monaco in 2006.
“Ligue 1 is a very physical championship,” added the man who netted 23 goals in 49 appearances for his country.
“When I joined Monaco I remember boss Francesco Guidolin telling me that you had to run like animals.”