Southampton striker Manolo Gabbiadini has revealed his admiration for Juventus hitman Mario Mandzukic and admits even without scoring too many goals, he is a key element in the Bianconeri team.

The 30-year-old Croatian international has rarely played in his favoured centre forward position this season but has remained an integral part of a good Juventus side.




Often deployed on the flanks, Mandzukic has contributed to Juventus’ march towards the league title and their performance in the Champions League, where they will be facing Real Madrid in the final.

Gabbiadini, a former Juventus man, admits that he is a fan of the Croatia international and believes he is an invaluable part of the Juventus set-up, even though he has not been scoring many goals.
 


Asked about Mandzukic, the Southampton striker said on Radio Onda Libera: “I like him because he has proved himself valuable without even scoring too many goals.  

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“Without him Juventus lose something.”

The Croatian has netted nine goals and provided eight assists in 46 appearances for the Italian champions this season.

Gabbiadini meanwhile has hit the ground running at Southampton after joining in January, scoring four times in nine Premier League games