Smicer hails Czech-mate

Last updated : 26 May 2003 By Chris Maxwell
The 29-year-old Reds midfielder admits that he felt the young striker would struggle to make an impact with Liverpool when he first arrived at the club, but now he knows that anything is possible for the 21-year-old.

Smicer said: "When Milan first came to Liverpool I didn't think he would be anything. He had done so well for the Czech team but he wasn't the same player when he came here.

"Then he worked hard at his game to prove himself and you can see the results. He has scored some beautiful goals for us this season and created chances too.

"The good thing about him is he is so young and has time to develop. What I like about him is he always desperately wants to score goals every time he plays, which is vital for a striker.

"We have a lot of talented young players in the Czech Republic, but there is no doubt Milan is considered the best. He has a big future."