‘ZLATAN PLAYED A BIG PART IN OUR GLORY EVEN THOUGH HE WAS NOT ON THE PITCH’

BY JOHN CROSS

ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC played a “big part” in AC Milan’s title winning success – even though he is 40.

The Swedish striker, one of football’s all-time great characters, was largely a substitute and bit-part player during the season, but the ex-manchester United star was still hugely influential.

England defender Fikayo Tomori revealed it was Ibrahimovic’s experience and know-how which often helped them get over the line.

Tomori (above, with his teammate) said: “We have a good team and we knew we have a very good team.

“Zlatan is 40. If he wasn’t in the squad then certain moments when we were losing at half-time or we were not playing well, if he was not there, it would have been different.

“He was always talking, before the game, walking up and down, talking and talking.

“He will talk to individual players and give them little bits of advice, ‘make sure you do this, when this guy gets it make sure you do that.’

“Even though he was not on the pitch he would be talking like he was starting the game and motivating everyone.

“He was the only guy who had won with Milan and was like, ‘guys, if we win, be ready because it will go crazy.’ It would have been different without him. He played a big part.”

Ibrahimovic, who won 121 caps, posted photos and video footage of his left knee being emptied of fluid which, he said, happened once a week for six months and was why he could barely play for the second half of the season.

But the ex-ac Milan, Barcelona and Paris Saintgermain star still played a big role despite having to take painkillers every day “for six months” because of the anterior cruciate ligament injury.

His post ended: “Today I have a new ACL and another trophy.”