Nakata will surprise everyone, says Parma coach
( 2001-08-03 10:32 ) (7 )

Parma coach Renzo Ulivieri believes Japan midfielder Hidetoshi Nakata will be the surprise package of Serie A next season.

The 24-year-old joined Parma in a US$26 million move from champions Roma in July and has made an impressive start in pre-season friendly games.

Although the Japan international has spent much of the past two seasons on the bench at Roma, Ulivieri dismissed suggestions Nakata may not be able to last the pace.

"He hasn't played a lot in the last two years but that doesn't mean that he has a problem with playing regularly," Ulivieri told Parma's official website.

"On the contrary, he has the physical qualities and the characteristics to surprise everyone. He'll play all season, and to a high level," said Ulivieri.

"It is hardly news that he is an excellent player and this year I'm sure he will give us many fine displays," added the Parma coach.

Nakata's season will be particularly intensive if Parma make it into the European Champions League group stage.

After finishing fourth in Serie A last term, Parma must beat French club Lille to qualify for one of the eight groups.

The first leg of the tie is in Parma on Wednesday and Ulivieri says Nakata will be fit and ready for the clash.

"He is in good shape, and he has no muscular problems. He only has a little fatigue now, having played in all the friendlies so far.

"But at the moment we are working on loosening the muscles, and he'll be fine to play the whole 90 minutes against Lille," said Ulivieri.