Internazionale midfielder
Patrick Vieira has admitted he sees a lot of similarities between
himself and Arsenal midfielder Abou Diaby.
The 20-year-old Arsenal man has been compared to Vieira by many
pundits as Arsene Wenger looks to find a replacement for his
talismanic former captain, and Vieira acknowledges that they have
much in common.
"Diaby reminds me of myself at his age, considering what he has
experienced, his club and his physical appearance," he told the
newspaper. "I came into the France team at a young age, too.
"Maybe there would be a good feeling between us. I hope he will
improve and work, because he has the right potential."
Diaby made his first full international appearance for France in
March, but Vieira is not yet ready to hand his place to the young
star.
"I am not asking myself any questions about my future with Les
Bleus. I am not really keen to stop, whatever happens."
Vieira was also keen to praise his former Arsenal team-mate Nicolas
Anelka, who has recently returned to the France side.
The Bolton man impressed on his return to the international scene,
and Vieira thinks he now feels a key part of the set-up
again.
"Anelka has been the great man of the last two French team matches,
without any doubt. At first, his goal against Lithuania was very
important, and then what he showed against Austria was great,
too.
"We could see his desire and quality. He feels people trust him
again."