RANGERS defender Calvin Bassey has had no shortage of world-class left-backs to look up to during his formative years, but reckons there is one player more than any other that always fascinated him - Real Madrid's Marcelo.
The 32-year-old Brazilian, widely considered to be one of the best left-backs of his generation, is as well-known for his marauding runs down the wing and skill with the ball as he is his outstanding defensive ability.
Growing up and learning from the sport's best by watching them play regularly on television, Bassey says there is no better example for how a modern full-back should play than the Real Madrid mainstay - and revealed his admiration for 19-year-old Alfonso Davies, who has enjoyed a superb breakthrough campaign with Bayern Munich.
Speaking to Rangers TV, Bassey explained: "Back then was Marcelo, I loved the way he got forward he was quality on the ball.
"He’d do a little trick and get a cross in and get an assist or do a little trick and next thing you know he’s had a shot and it’s a goal, so Marcelo is definitely one of my heroes growing up.
"Right now, Alphonso Davies is a great player. He’s lightning-quick and his ability to get up and down is amazing.
"I feel you should always be open to learn no matter the level you’re watching or the level you’re playing. I always try to watch as much football as I can and learn from players who are playing in my position.
"I’ve always tried a little trick or a stepover or something. As the season goes on when I get to play more you’ll see more tricks and more end product.
"I’ve had a couple of opportunities to score which I should have scored so I'll be working on that in training."
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