Cruyff praise for Messi

Dutch legend tips Messi for greatness

By Lucas Brown   Last updated: 8th October 2007  

Cruyff praise for Messi

Messi: Star attraction

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Legend Johan Cruyff insists Barcelona's Lionel Messi can become one of the footballing greats.

The Argentina striker has stood out for Barca this season scoring eight goals and turning in some dazzling displays.

Quest

And former Dutch superstar Cruyff believes Messi's quest to improve is what is driving the 20-year-old forward.

"Leo has all the conditions to be a true star, but he also wants that and works for that," Cruyff said in his weekly column for Catalan daily, El Periodico.

"There are players that will work as hard as anyone, but they will never be extra special because that comes from inside. You can improve things, but you cannot create that."

Thierry Henry also feels he is forming a great partnership with the young striker.

Understanding

"I am very pleased to have such a great understanding with Messi," Henry told Sport.

"He always finds me on the pitch and I look for him too and we create chances, which is really good."