Kranjcar - Modric can be a star

Pompey midfielder backs compatriot to shine

By Robin Hackett   Last updated: 9th June 2008

croatia luka Modric niko Kranjcar

Deadly duo: Modric and Kranjcar

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Croatia star Niko Kranjcar believes Luka Modric will become a star player at Euro 2008 and in the Premier League.

Portsmouth midfielder Kranjcar made the move from the Croatian league to the Premier League two years ago and has been a key player for Harry Redknapp recently.

And he believes that Modric, who has agreed to join Tottenham from Dinamo Zagreb in a £16.5m switch, will have no problems adapting to the English game despite his lack of physical strength.

"That is what they say about Fabregas," he said. "Luka runs the game and he's a great player.

"We'll see a lot of him next season. He's got the potential to have a lot of success.

"Of course, you need a bit of luck, but with the couple of good games on the trot he has every opening to make it.

"It will suit Spurs with their Spanish manager and the way they play and dominate at home.

"It will suit him and I'm sure they know who they bought and why they bought him. I don't believe he will have any problems."

Modric gave his side a 1-0 win over Austria in their opening game as he converted an early penalty and, while both he and his team-mates faded in the second half, Kranjcar remains convinced he will show what he can do at international level.

"Hopefully he will be very big in this tournament. I believe he can be one of the stars of the tournament and we will all help him become that."