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John Arne Riise, a former Liverpool player now plying his trade at Roma, believes team-mate Alberto Aquilani has what it takes to be a success in the Premier League.
The Norwegian international, who has a thunderous left-footed shot, admitted to The Daily Express that upon his own move from Liverpool to Roma, he had little idea who Aquilani was, but it did not take long for him to learn of the Italian's ability.
Riise, 28, opined that Aquilani is the greater threat than Xabi Alonso, as he "runs more than Xabi" and gets into the box more.
“When I first came to Roma, I didn’t know a thing about Aquilani," Riise stated. "I knew all about Francesco Totti, Daniele De Rossi and Philippe Mexes, of course, but Aquilani was the player who surprised me the most in my first months with what he could do.”
On the specific capabilities that make Aquilani stand out, Riise said, “He’s really good on the ball, with good passing, good movement, he works hard and is a good professional. He likes to have the ball at his feet but not because he likes to dribble, he just wants to keep the team moving. He never stands still, he’s always on the run.
“He certainly runs more than Xabi and is probably more dangerous in terms of getting in the box and trying to score goals.
“When I came to Rome he was my neighbour and helped me out a lot. He’s a good friend. Liverpool will be getting a very good player.”
Riise also believes it will not take long for Aquilani to adapt to a league that focuses more on pace, power and physicality than Serie A.
“There is an obvious difference between the Italian and English leagues. Here it is more tactical whereas in England you’re playing 90 minutes
up and down, up and down, and there is more emphasis on power and
physical force," the Norwegian explained.
“But Cristiano Ronaldo isn’t all about physique, and he has been the best player in the Premier League in recent seasons. Everyone can adapt. It just takes time. The key is how long it takes. I was lucky. I fitted in quite quickly when I joined from Monaco. Alberto is someone who wants to make the most of his talent and wants to prove himself, so if Liverpool come in for you, it is very hard to say no.”
Alan Dawson, Goal.com
