Rafa Benítez: Marek Hamšík tactically more intelligent than Steven Gerrard

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Napoli coach Rafa Benítez has been very impressed with Marek Hamšík that he drew comparisons between the Slovakian midfielder and Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.

Marek Hamšík has scored four goals from two Serie A games for Napoli this season
Marek Hamšík has scored four goals from two Serie A games for Napoli this season

Photo: Getty Images

The 26-year-old, who is famous for his Mohawk, has scored a brace in each of Napoli's two Serie A matches this season.

With Edinson Cavani and Ezequiel Lavezzi having left Napoli for Paris Saint-Germain in the past two years, Hamšík's importance to the Neapolitans has become more pronounced.

Asked after Napoli's 4-2 win away to Chievo on Saturday, Benítez explained how Hamšík compared to Gerrard, who he worked with during his time in charge of Liverpool.

"Hamšík is very important because he slots in at the right time, but Gonzalo Higuaín also does well to create space for him," Benítez told Sky Sport Italia.

"Is Hamšík like Gerrard? They are different players. Hamšík doesn't have Gerrard's strength, but he does have more tactical intelligence."

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