|
Dubbed the "Little Kaka", which whilst strictly true being 1 cm shorter than the Brazilian maestro, may be a slightly premature moniker , attacking midfielder Adem Ljajic is already being tipped for great things. Manchester United wasted little time in acquiring the creative and talented youngster's signature when they announced the signings of Ljajic and fellow Serb Zoran Tosic in January 2009, although unlike Tosic they confirmed Ljajic would stay with FK Partizan for another year to allow him to continue developing whilst still only seventeen.
So what do the English Premier League giants see in the young prodigy? Ljajic currently excels on the right wing where his pace and trickery are most potent, although he can also play in a more central position. He does share similarities in his style with Kaka, however it is believed he will move to the Real Madrid's central position when he has evolved into a more rounded, mature player. Technically gifted and magical with the ball at his feet, he loves taking his man on and beating him, sometimes repeatedly, which should delight and frustrate the Old Trafford fans in equal measure. It is certain that Alex Ferguson will work on this with the youngster like he did with Cristiano Ronaldo as a raw gem, and attempt to make him just as effective as he is expressive on the field. His finishing ability leaves a lot of room for improvement as well, and there are question marks over his physical build, but he has developed in this respect immeasurably over the last 18 months or so. Altogether there is little doubt Adem Ljajic has all the attributes to be a top player, and there will be no better environment to further his development than under the watchful eyes of Manchester United's coaching staff. They believe he has the strength of character to succeed as he is renowned for his already professional, hard-working attitude. Definately one to watch in the future.
Ljajic has represented the Serbian Under-19 and Under-21 teams, where he currently plays after making his international debut in September 2008. He has gone on to make three more appearances, scoring one goal.
|