Riise said: "I have no doubt Sami is one of the world's best defenders. He is the perfect captain, takes responsibility and gives everything for the team. When we go into the huddle and have our brief pep-talk, Sami is always boss. Everybody respects him because we know he always gives 100 per cent.
"If something needs done, Sami is the one we talk to because he goes and does it. I like that about him. I have already learned a lot from him since I joined the club. If I've made a mistake in a match I ask Sami what I should have done and he gives me advice. He is a guy who holds everyone together when we need him most in hard games and tough atmospheres."