Darijo Srna, the Croatian right-back who currently plays for Shakhtar Donetsk, says Real Madrid’s achievements since the start of this 2016/17 season wouldn’t be possible if not for Luka Modric’s priceless efforts.
Srna, a captain of the Ukrainian club side which he joined in 2003, has been sidelined due to injuries but his influence on and off the pitch is still valued.
He is the clubs most capped player and is regarded of one of the legendary players in the club’s history.
The 34-year-old Croatian is also his country’s most capped national team team player.
Although, Srna retired from international football in 2016 after holding the captain’s armband between 2009-2016, he has been keen on football development in La Liga.
The “Icon of Shakhtar,” as he is known for his loyalty to the club, told Marca that Luka Modric isn’t just one of the best players, but the the best at this moment.
In his words as per the sports news outlet: “Modric is beyond just a friend, he’s the best midfielder in the world right now. I have no doubts; I’m not saying that he is one of the best, I affirm that he is the best.
“Luka has grown over the years, I think he is now at his peak.
“Since he arrived he has been improving with the team. Real Madrid are having a great run of results, but without Luka they would have problems,” he added.
Read: West Ham’s Coach Slaven Bilic Sad Over Leicester’s Star, Kante N’golo.
Srna won many trophies as a professional footballer. Among his many titles are: a UEFA Cup, 7 Ukrainian Premier League crowns, 5 Ukrainian Cup titles and 5 Ukrainian Super Cup.
He rejected mouth-watering offers from Bayern Munich and Chelsea due to his love for the Ukrainian club.
Read: “I’m Happy For The Three Points,” Chelsea Player Marcos Alonso Says.
The defender got his first call-up for international duties in November 2002.
In 2009, he was promoted as captain of the Croatian national team by Slaven Bilic, who is also managing Premier League club West Ham.
Read: West Ham Hopes To Sell Dimitri Payet, To Real Madrid Or Barca.
Srna remained Croatian captain until his retirement from international football in 2016.
