Ryan Sessegnon has been compared to a young Gareth Bale – but his Fulham boss believes he can be more like a different Real Madrid star.
On-loan Southampton left-back Matt Targett recently likened Sessegnon to a 17-year-old to Bale following his impressive appearances on the Whites’ left-wing.
But Slavisa Jokanovic sees Sessegnon’s future as an attacking left-back like Real’s Brazil star Marcelo.
“He has been compared with Bale, I hear, but he can be like Marcelo,” Jokanovic told West London Sport. “It’s a more natural position for him to be an offensive full-back.
“He can be an offensive full-back for some big team. His physicality is fantastic. He can attack from both positions (left wing and left-back).”
Sessegnon’s future remains the subject of intense speculation and Jokanovic revealed he has held talks with the youngster about reports linking him with a move.
Tottenham, Liverpool and Manchester United are among the clubs being linked with him.
“I spoke with him and tried to discover if he is okay, and if some kind of situation and so much news affects him,” Jokanovic said.
“He is quiet and he is okay. He is focussed only on the job immediately in front of him. He is so ready for the battle ahead for us.
“We cannot avoid this kind of news, gossip and rumours around him. It’s part of the profession and he must live his life in this kind of situation.”