Luka Modric insists he is more scared of Harry Redknapp than the physical nature of English football.
Tottenham midfielder not worried by physicality of league
Luka Modric insists he is more scared of manager Harry Redknapp than the physical nature of English football.
There were few concerns about the Croatian midfielder's ability when he joined Tottenham from Dinamo Zagreb in 2008, but there were some who questioned whether he would be able to cope with the tough tackling in the Premier League.
But Modric overcame a slow start to establish himself as one of Spurs' key players and he believes he has shown that he is strong enough to flourish in such a competitive environment.
"The Premier League is a fast and physical competition," he told
The Times.
"I know everyone suspected I was too soft for this league, but I think I've shown it's not a problem. I'm not scared of anybody.
"I wasn't supposed to be able to handle those things, but it's not worked out like that.
"I like playing here. I watch a lot of football on television from all over the world and the Premier League is the best."
Motivator
Modric credits Redknapp with playing a major role in his development and is always determined to do everything that his boss asks of him.
The 24-year-old believes Redknapp can be an even more formidable figure than his national team manager Slaven Bilic, with both men demanding that Modric pull his weight in defence as well as attack.
"Harry is very similar to Bilic, but is scarier in the dressing room if we're losing at half-time," Modric explained.
"They both talk a lot to the players, they're great motivators and know exactly what to say.
"Harry may be a little bit scarier, but every coach whose team is losing at half-time is not in a good mood.
"I have freedom going forward, but also need to work hard in defence. I know what Harry expects and I don't want to let him down.
"Every coach has bad as well as good moments. If we play badly, he lets us know."
Lennon
Modric has also backed Tottenham team-mate Aaron Lennon to make the spot on the right side of England's midfield his own.
Theo Walcott is vying for the same place and Modric admits there are similarities between the two speedsters, who have both tormented Croatia in recent times.
But Modric has been impressed by the improvement of Lennon, currently sidelined with a groin injury.
"Everyone talks about Walcott in Zagreb, but 'Azza' was excellent against us in that 5-1 defeat at Wembley," Modric said.
"The Croatia team do not have great memories of Walcott and Lennon. They're similar in many ways as they're both right wingers, both very fast and both score goals.
They love to go one-on-one with defenders and make it look easy as they're so quick.
"Azza is so fast. He was in great form this year and it's a shame he's injured now. His passing and crossing are much better than they used to be, as he stays behind after training to practise every day."
