Thaindian News

I’m no Xavi, yet: Modric

Gdansk (Poland), June 17 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Croatia midfielder Luka Modric says he isn’t as good as Spanish stars Xavi and Andres Iniesta but thinks he has the potential to rival them.

Tottenham Hotspur player Modric has been linked with a move to Chelsea or Manchester United after Euro 2012, where he has helped Croatia to the verge of quarterfinal qualification.

“It is very nice to hear those comparisons, but I still need to work hard to get to that level,” Modric said on the UEFA website when asked how he compared to the Barcelona duo.

Modric is not fazed by the weight of expectations from the famously demanding Croatian fans, he said.

“A lot is expected of me every time I play for the national team,” he said, adding: “That pressure and that responsibility doesn’t hinder me.”

Croatia play Spain Monday, with both teams knowing that a win would assure them of a quarterfinal place as group winners.

A 2-2 draw or greater would qualify both teams at Italy’s expense.

–IANS/RIA Novosti
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