European Football Heroes - #3 Gennaro Gattuso

Outside now!

In my semi-regular series on European football heroes, we are up to number 3. Welcome onboard one Gennaro 'Rino' Gattuso.

If you need to know one thing that sums Gattuso up as man and player , it's his nickname 'The Pitbull'. As this suggests he was a combative, ruthless winner with an almost pathological desire to win. Opponents knew if they were up against him it would not be an easy game and they would have to be at their very best to win. His energy, aggression and leadership were legendary.

His main position was as a defensive midfielder where he would break up play and protect the defence, enabling the front players to work their magic. He started off at the Serie A clubs Perugia and Salerintana before moving to  Rangers.

Although at the time it seemed a strange move to go from Italy to Scotland, it in fact turned out really well for Gattuso. He became a firm favourite at the Scottish club where his style suited the style of play and fans expectations.

His stage whispering could do with some work

It was his next move that really made him a star and Italian hero though. He left Rangers for AC Milan and was a key player for the club in his time there. The honours he won tell it all - champions leagues, serie a titles and copa italia trophies. His partnership with Andrea Pirlo for club and country was a joy to behold. He scrapped for the ball and then gave it Pirlo to work his magic with.

Since retiring from playing he made the natural move into management. He is now with Pisa where his desire and passion are there for all to see.

Check this link for more Pitbull action: Go on Rino