Top clubs hover as Zidane hails Arshavin

Former France superstar Zinedine Zidane has hailed Russia’s Euro 2008 hero Andrei Arshavin as one of the main surprises of Euro 2008.

The former world player of the year tipped the forward to have a great career as a queue of leading clubs in England and Spain line up for his signature.

Zidane said: “The way Russia played is great. Especially, their number 10, Andrey Arshavin, he had an amazing game. It is his first major finals and he hasn't stopped posing questions for the opposition, as if he has been always doing just that. He had a great season with Zenit St. Petersburg but the Euros are another matter entirely. I see it like this: the Euros are even tougher than the World Cup. Thus, anyone who has a huge Euro 2008 is set to have a great career, it doesn't work out any other way than that."

Russian football players are drawing increased attention following their impressive performances in Euro 2008, especially from Europe's biggest clubs.

Arsenal's manager Arsene Wenger says he has "discovered" some talents in Guus Hiddink's squad and is "looking at who could strengthen the Gunners".

Wenger is among a number of managers rumoured to be keen on Arshavin. Manchester City, Everton and Newcastle have also been linked with him, though the player’s dream is said to be a move to Spain with Barcelona.

Barca have also been linked with Russia’s main striker, Roman Pavluchenko, who is also reported to be interesting Real Madrid.

The Spartak Moscow player has scored three goals in the competition so far.

Post this story to del.icio.us