NO BLOMSHELL FROM ZLAT

JESPER BLOMQVIST does not believe fellow Swede Zlatan Ibrahimovic will boil over in the pressure cooker atmosphere of Anfield. Ibrahimovic has been dogged by a bad boy image, accused of being arrogant and a hothead throughout his controversial career. But ex-Manchester United winger Blomqvist, 42, is convinced that Ibrahimovic will keep his cool in the heat of battle at a highly charged Anfield tomorrow night. Blomqvist, who spent three years at Old Trafford in United’s treble-winning era, said: “Zlatan has matured. He had a temper earlier in his life but I don’t think it’s a problem for him now. “He is used to big STEVE MILLAR games and big atmospheres. He had to learn how to handle certain situations because all his career he has had people trying to provoke him.

“But he can handle that now. He has calmed down a lot and I don’t think it will be a problem against Liverpool.

“Of course, he is still very fierce and competitive.

“It is difficult to keep that competitive edge but take it down a few notches so that you don’t get overheated.

“Zlatan is a role model for everyone, not just for kids but also for his team-mates.

“The younger players see Zlatan and they know that he isn’t just coming here to take it easy and take the money.

“You can see how ripped he is physically. He is working so hard.” Blomqvist also believes Ibrahimovic will be in no rush to pack his bags and leave Old Trafford – and can get even better, at the grand old age of 35.

He added: “When I watch him play and see how much he enjoys it, why not? He has played every game so far and it’s a good sign.

“If players have the joy of football and then can stay fit, then they get better.

“Henrik Larsson was a special case in Sweden. Zlatan is like Henrik. Some players just get better with age.

“You have to work harder and harder each season to maintain your fitness but if you can keep the passion for football then you can do it.”