Rodriguez: Valderrama comparisons make me proud

Oct 31, 2012 1:25:00 PM

The versatile forward has admitted that he wants to follow in the footsteps of his fellow Colombian, but is keen to earn a reputation by himself

Porto star James Rodriguez has stated that he feels flattered to be compared with Colombia legend Carlos Valderrama, but is determined to make a name for himself in his own right.

The attacking midfielder has developed into a key player at Porto since joining the club from Banfield in 2010, and his good performances have earned him comparisons with the illustrious 51-year-old.

"We all wanted to have the No.10 on our backs when we played. It makes me proud when they compare me to great players," Rodriguez told Uefa.com.

"But I am James and I continue to be James. I am my own person and the world can see me that way."

The 21-year-old then went on to reveal his ambition to win the Champions League with Porto, but added that they are taking things one step at a time.

"Porto are a club that always want to win. To play here makes me proud. It's a club with a lot of history.

"We hope we can get past the first stage in the Champions League, because you have to take it step by step and then later you can reach your objectives.

"You always want to win trophies - when it's the Champions League, even better."

Porto sit atop of the table in Group A with nine points from three games.

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