Serbia midfielder and reported Manchester United target Sergej Milinkovic-Savic has played down comparisons between his game and that of World Cup winner Zinedine Zidane, saying: "I see myself as more of a Yaya Toure."
Milinkovic-Savic scored 12 goals in 35 appearances for Lazio as the Biancoceleste finished fifth in Serie A in 2017-18, and his performances drew comparisons to former France, Juventus and Real Madrid star Zidane.
It has also reportedly drawn the interest of multiple big clubs, including the Red Devils, though the midfielder remains at Lazio for the time being.
The 23-year-old is now with the Serbia squad, preparing for their World Cup Group E opener against Costa Rica, and says he is relishing the pressure of stepping onto the game's biggest stage.
"I think that I'm in a really good place right now," he told FIFA.com.
"Pressure? I love pressure, it gets the best out of me. That's when I feel the best and give maximum on the pitch – those who know me can confirm that.
"I am absolutely ready for Russia. If I need to earn the trust of the head coach [Mladen] Krstajic, I will do my best to justify that."
Born in Lleida in Catalonia, Milinkovic-Savic could have opted to play for Spain but insists "my country is Serbia and I am always proud to say that".
"I think I'm in a really good place right now"
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 9, 2018
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He is likely to feature in a line of three attacking players behind lone striker Aleksandar Mitrovic in Serbia's starting line-up and, to those comparing his role to that played by Zidane for France, he said: "That comparison can only flatter me."
Milinkovic-Savic added: "However, I see myself more as a Yaya Toure. As for idols, I can say I have always watched and looked up to Nemanja Matic as well.
"I can see myself as a future playmaker. That is how I like to play most, and my last season in Lazio has proved it."
