Fellaini: My Football Idol

Every footballer had an idol growing up - a player they maybe didn't model their game on, but someone who inspired their love of the game. Marouane Fellaini discusses the player he loved watching as a kid...

"My football idol when I was younger was Zinedine Zidane. There are a lot of great players - Ronaldo, Messi... but I loved Zidane. He is the one for me. He made things look so simple. When he played he made it seem like he was playing in the garden! Watching him in action was beautiful.

The control he had of the ball was unbelievable. His goal against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League final in 2002 was the standout moment for me from his career - the way he watched the ball and then struck that volley - it was a magnificent goal. He was a player that I just loved watching. Very few footballers, if any, will ever be like him.

I was lucky enough to meet him a few years ago. It was an amazing experience and I made sure I got a photo. He is a great person. We had a bit of a chat, but I was a little star struck! He must go down as one of the game's best ever players who is liked and respected by so many."