http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/sport/An-inform-Niko-is-no.3985890.jp

An in-form Niko is no longer a rare sight

He was the endangered species whose appearances were as sporadic as a Southampton win, now Niko Kranjcar is one of the first names on Harry Redknapp's team-sheet.

The Croat, who could never get a game a year ago, has started Pompey's last 33 matches in all competitions.

It's a run currently equalled only by David James.

After a year spent bedding into English football, Kranjcar has become an integral part of Pompey's push for silverware.

With five goals and just as many assists, he remains the focal point of the Blues' attacking play.

And for Redknapp, he's a must-play in his side.

He said: 'I don't think there are many around like Niko nowadays.

'He's a similar type of player to Eyal Berkovic in that he's got that ability to do something special and be in great control of the football.

'You want him in your team always, of course you do, but it takes time to get settled in.

'Even last year I felt he was a quality footballer and a very, very good player.

'But the Premier League is such a different place and has a different way of playing.

'He'd been playing in Croatia – imagine going from there straight to the Premier League.

'Niko's a footballer who has always played at a slower pace, half the pace of the Premier League.

'He would get time to play, have the chance to get the ball and have his head up. Coming here, it's at 100mph.

'He did okay last year but now he's settled down he's been absolutely fantastic.

'Niko's got fit and understands what's needed in the Premier League.

'He's got a good attitude, never wants to miss training, always wants to work and he's a smashing lad.

'When he gets the ball he keeps it. He knows a pass. He scores a goal. He's got everything.

'He's a nice size at 6ft as well, so he's strong.

'You want him in your team, that's why he's there, and he can get even better.'

Such has been the Croatian's Fratton Park impact during the current campaign, he has been linked with several clubs.

But Redknapp is confident he can keep hold of him.

He added: 'Hopefully we can keep hold of him.

'He's happy here and we are playing great football.

'The European Championships are coming up and he's got a Cup final to play.

'The club's moving forwards, so everything is here for him.'