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Jaap Stam: This is what I really think of Man United star Zlatan Ibrahimovic
JAAP STAM has heaped praise on Manchester United hitman Zlatan Ibrahimovic ahead of his return to Old Trafford.
Jaap Stam reveals why he signed with Reading
The former Manchester United defender, who believes he was sold on too early by Sir Alex Ferguson, heads back to Manchester on Saturday (12.30pm) as Reading manager.
The Championship club take on Jose Mourinho’s side in the FA Cup third round, with Ibrahimovic expected to start.
United’s 35-year-old striker has rarely taken a break this season and will once again be keen to feature against Reading, experiencing the FA Cup for the first time.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has enjoyed a prolific start to life at Manchester United
And Stam, having faced Ibrahimovic twice in Serie A when they were at AC Milan and Juventus respectively, is well aware of the talents the Swede holds.
"I think it was quite even - it was a nice physical battle,” Stam told The Sun on playing against Ibrahimovic.
“He’s a quality player. He’s tall, he’s strong, he uses his body very well.
For a big player, [Ibrahimovic] has great technique on the ball, his first touches and everything
“For a big player, he has great technique on the ball, his first touches and everything. The first couple of yards he’s quick as well.
"He played for big teams, always scored, always won trophies, performed better than certain people who give comments on TV.
Jaap Stam has been impressive as manager at Reading, leading them to third spot in the Championship
“You look at his career, he’s a guarantee for success."
Zlatan Ibrahimovic already has 17 goals in all competitions since arriving at United in the summer.
And Mourinho is keen to extend his stay at Old Trafford next season.
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