I’m the little man who can, says Modric
moscow — Croatia captain Luka Modric says determination and self-belief were always more important than physical stature and that will be as true in Sunday’s World Cup final.
At 5 feet and 8 inches, the Croatia playmaker can cut a diminutive figure on the pitch but he has few rivals when it comes to skill, game-management and stamina. On Sunday, Modric will play the biggest match of his life against France and size will be the last thing on his mind.
“I’ve always ignored such talk,” he told reporters on the eve of his nation’s first World Cup final. “I have never doubted myself even if others did, I always believed I could get to where I am today and thank God this came true.
“You don’t have to be a giant to play football, I’m happy with where I am. I am happy with where I am and I never cared what anyone else said, it only further motivated me.”
“I’ve seen a great deal of hardship in my life,” added Modric, who lived in refugee hostels for several years as a child.
“The most important thing is to never give up, never give in to circumstances, believe yourself and to soldier on no matter what’s in your way.”
Despite all the talent in their ranks, Croatia’s place at the World Cup was in jeopardy as late as last October when Zlatko Dalic took over and Modric paid tribute to the impact the coach has had on the team.
“He came into the picture at a very difficult moment ... In the first game, he talked us up to give us self-belief and told us we were still good players despite this crisis. He brought us calmness, he perked us up and what we most like is his sincerity and his attitude towards each and every player. We like having him around.” —