"I've been very impressed. He came during what was the off season in Russia, so his fitness wasn't correct, but he got that quickly," said the Finn.
"Maybe the first half of the first game was a bit of a struggle, but since then he's been as good as anyone on the pitch.
"Sometimes in training situations I try to talk with him, or maybe sometimes during the game. If that helps him I am happy. Obviously it's better for the team if I can help him settle.
"He can become a first team regular for years to come. He has shown he's very athletic and he can play the ball. These are the two things every good centre-back should have."