Friday 29 August 2014 09:20, UK
Swansea boss Michael Laudrup believes Spanish attacking midfielder Alejandro Pozuelo has the potential to emulate Philippe Coutinho.
Pozuelo signed for the Swans on a three-year deal during the summer from his hometown club Real Betis, along with fellow midfielder Jose Canas.
The 22-year-old cost less than £500,000, £8m less than Brazil schemer Coutinho cost Liverpool when he moved from Inter Milan in January.
Laudrup says there are clear similarities between the two players, and has urged Pozuelo to try and achieve the same impact.
"I think Alejandro can do here what Coutinho has done at Liverpool," Laudrup told the South Wales Evening Post.
Alejandro can do here what Coutinho has done at Liverpool... he has the same ability with the ball.
"I remember when Coutinho arrived. He came from Inter and he had a lot to learn, but now he is one of the most important players at Liverpool.
"With time, Pozuelo can do the same here because he has the same ability with the ball.
"He can find space, he is good one-on-one and has two good feet - we don't know if he is right-footed or left-footed. He also has very good vision."
Pozuelo is yet to start a game in the Premier League - he has made five substitute appearances to date - but has been a key player so far in the Europa League.
He scored in the qualifying ties against Malmo and Petrolul Ploiesti, and also played the full 90 minutes in the impressive 3-0 win at Valencia which kicked off their Group A challenge.
"It was a dream start in the group stage for us," said Pozuelo. "A victory like that over a team like Valencia gives you motivation for the next games.
"I was lucky to play 90 minutes and it was special, particularly as it was on Spanish TV."
Next up is a home game against St Gallen on Thursday, when Pozuelo will again hope to be involved - and force himself into Laudrup's plans for the forthcoming league fixtures against Southampton, Sunderland and West Ham.
"I think I'm dealing quite well with the change in culture from Spain to here," he added.
"I'm still adapting to the team and the manager, but I can't complain about anything.
"The manager is giving me confidence and games, and I'm very happy. We have a big squad and we can't all play. The manager makes the decisions and I'm happy with them.
"I hope to play as much as possible, and it is helpful knowing the manager is confident enough to play me.
"He and my team-mates are helping me adapt, while the fans are very warm. They always make you feel welcome and that helps me to settle here."
