Khalilou Fadiga: Dribble, vision and 'elimination': Pape Mater Sarr reminds me of Patrick Vieira

Exclusive Interview by Alessandro Schiavone

Capital Football has spoken to Senegal legend Khalilou Fadiga ahead of Tottenham Hotspurs' upcoming London derby against West Ham.

Ex-Bolton, Derby County and Coventry star Fadiga was one of the heroes of the Lions of the Teranga's run to the quarter-finals of the World Cup 2002. Retired since 2011, he has run the rule over Tottenham hotshot and compatriot Pape Matar Sarr.

Pape Matar Sarr has been for a couple of seasons now one of Tottenham's shining lights. Would he have had his place in Senegal's XI in 2002 Mr Fadiga?

"I don't like comparing the generations because it would not be respectful towards the people who were involved back then. But Pape Matar Sarr is one of the greatest players of his generation and a bigwig in Africa, in particular in Senegal. He's an extremely talented player with qualities to burn and also a good person. What I appreciate the most about him is his technique and vision. He is both nature and nurture, anyway the one doesn't go without the other nowadays in the world of football. Without a minimum of talent you don't go anywhere...but if you are not prepared to work hard you won't make it." 

I know you don't like comparisons...but does he not remind you someone when he twinkles forward with those long legs? Senegal-born Vieira maybe?

"Yes, I think Pape is reminiscent of Vieira who, as a Senegalese, marked the game with the way he played. That's an archetype of a player who is hard to come by in the game today. A player who can dribble and 'eliminate' ..but Pape is someone who does this really, really well! Given that the two have drawn comparisons I hope and pray that he'll have an even bigger career than Patrick who had a legendary one."

Where is he now and how far can he go? What's his real value and standing in the game at the moment of talking?

"I am someone who thinks that there are no limits if he puts in the work. As a player you can always get better and as long as Pape Matar Sarr has room for improvement he should make the most of it and keep growing."

His future?

"Tottenham have to do better...Pape has the qualities to get to top of the game. I hope he'll help Tottenham to a great end to the season."