Italy just the job for Hickey if he can adapt quickly

HAVING moved from Italy to Scotland, I know the huge difference between the two countries in terms of the culture and approach to football. Aaron Hickey is about to take the opposite journey. There will be a lot for him to get to grips with once his move to Bologna is finalised, but what a fascinating opportunity it will be. I’ll save my thoughts on whether Italy was the right place for me for another time. What I will say is that it’s perhaps the most difficult place in Europe to go as an attacker. Football may have changed since I played at Fiorentina and AC Milan, but there is still a huge emphasis on defensive organisation and tactics in comparison with other nations. Hickey, though, is a defender who can play. At 18, he will learn a massive amount about the art of defending and the discipline needed to play in Serie A. This season, it might be a case of getting a handful of games as he adapts. But, in terms of training and preparation for matches, he will gain so much. I played against the Bologna coach, Sinisa Mihajlovic. He came to Italy in the same summer I did — 1992. A very good, tough defender and what a left foot he had.

He also has a very strong will. He will expect a lot from the players under his command. For Hickey, getting over the language barrier will be important. If I was to offer any advice, it would be to try to get there as quickly as possible. Because you need to be able to communicate clearly and effectively. You also have to accept the difference in culture. Players are probably recognised more in Italy than in any other country in Europe. People will come over to you constantly, talking about what you are doing well — or not doing well. I remember once being in a restaurant in Milan with my wife and son. All of sudden, people just dragged up their chairs to the table and began chatting about AC Milan. I was halfway through my pasta! For Hickey, though, if he takes in everything Italian football has to offer then he will undoubtedly become a better player and a more mature person. I really like what I have seen of him in the few games I’ve watched. Moving abroad at his age is obviously a big decision, but I hope it takes him to the top level over the coming years.