http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/frattonlatest/Adams-I-need-fantastic-Niko.4777650.jp
Adams: I need fantastic Niko
Published Date:
10 December 2008
By Neil Allen
Tony Adams hailed the magic of Niko Kranjcar and insisted: I need you in my team.
The cultured Croatian's re-emergence following an injury-wrecked season has been a massive boost to Pompey.
The 23-year-old has featured in each of the last three games during his latest comeback from damaged ankle ligaments.
It's a return which has delighted Adams, who sees Kranjcar as one of the first names on his team sheet.
Kranjcar's versatility and ability with either foot has enabled the Blues boss to employ him in several different roles so far.
Thankfully, there has also been no more reaction to his ankle problems,
putting him in line to retain his place against Newcastle on Sunday.
And Adams revealed his admiration for a player he believes his side cannot do without.
He said: 'Niko is a great club man.
'He can play football and I need him in my team whether it's on the right, on the left or in behind the strikers.
'That's how I feel about him.
'He is a fantastic footballer and he was missed when he was out injured for the early part of the season.
'Now we have him back, though, and as long as he's fit, he will play a big part in our season.
'I am a huge fan of his.
'We have plenty of talented players in this squad, which is great for me, and Niko is certainly one of them.'
Kranjcar started on the right against West Brom last weekend, his natural side being right-footed.
It's in stark contrast to last season, where Harry Redknapp preferred to largely let him operate on the left.
But it is in the hole where Adams feels he can cause most destruction, a tactic he employed against Wolfsburg last week.
The former Hajduk Split man has also featured in that role on many occasions for Croatia during his 46 caps.
And the Blues boss is convinced that remains his most effective position.
He added: 'I think in behind the strikers where he played in Wolfsburg is his best position to be honest.
'I thought he was superb that night.
'His versatility is a good asset to have and he gives me plenty of options.
'We've used him on the left many times, on the right on occasions and
then in behind in Germany where, like I say, I thought he was
excellent.'