MALDINI PRAISES PIQUE

AC Milan legend Maldini has said that Barcelona defender Gerrard Pique is the best in world. Interviewed in L’Equipe, the 41-year-old was particularly expansive about his views on football a year after his retirement from the professional game.

“When I see Messi play, in my opinion, he should win the Ballon d’Or every year. He is an unbelievable player.

“I like Gerrard Pique a lot. He has class. He knows how to defend and also how to score. He is perfect in a duo with Carles Puyol.

“Alessandro Nesta remains one of the strongest defenders. Milan’s Thiago Silva can also become a super champion.”