Espanyol sporting director Paco Herrera has admitted there is nothing flashy about new signing Steve Finnan but expects the Republic of Ireland international to make a big contribution to the team.
With highly-rated Argentinian defender Pablo Zabaleta leaving for Manchester City over the weekend, Espanyol moved quickly to bring in cover at right-back and today signed Finnan on a two-year deal from Liverpool.
When asked about the 32-year-old Herrera told COM Radio: "He brings balance to the right side. He doesn't make mistakes, gives good passes, defends well and is correct in everything he does.
"He is always worth a 'seven' in ratings, he doesn't call attention to himself, but the coach and the squad will appreciate him."
Aside from Zabaleta, Espanyol have also seen Spain international Albert Riera leave the club for Liverpool today, and Herrera admits the situation was looking worrying for the Primera Liga outfit not so long ago.
But the signing of Finnan comes hot on the heels of fellow new boys Nicolas Martin Pareja and Nene, and former Liverpool coach Herrera believes Espanyol coach Bartolome Marquez's squad is now better than ever.
"Fortunately we have been able to close the signing of Finnan. The coach is happy because we have been able to respond to a situation that three days ago was alarming," Herrera said.
"I think that we have the best squad since I've been here."
Finnan will be on international duty for the next week or so but Espanyol hope he will be available to make his debut for Marquez's side in the home match against Getafe on September 21.
No fee was disclosed for the former Fulham, Notts County and Birmingham defender.
When asked about the 32-year-old Herrera told COM Radio: "He brings balance to the right side. He doesn't make mistakes, gives good passes, defends well and is correct in everything he does.
"He is always worth a 'seven' in ratings, he doesn't call attention to himself, but the coach and the squad will appreciate him."
Aside from Zabaleta, Espanyol have also seen Spain international Albert Riera leave the club for Liverpool today, and Herrera admits the situation was looking worrying for the Primera Liga outfit not so long ago.
But the signing of Finnan comes hot on the heels of fellow new boys Nicolas Martin Pareja and Nene, and former Liverpool coach Herrera believes Espanyol coach Bartolome Marquez's squad is now better than ever.
"Fortunately we have been able to close the signing of Finnan. The coach is happy because we have been able to respond to a situation that three days ago was alarming," Herrera said.
"I think that we have the best squad since I've been here."
Finnan will be on international duty for the next week or so but Espanyol hope he will be available to make his debut for Marquez's side in the home match against Getafe on September 21.
No fee was disclosed for the former Fulham, Notts County and Birmingham defender.
Copyright (c) Press Association
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