Former New England Revolution coach Bruce Arena feels that Tajon Buchanan can be a major asset to Inter Milan.
The ex-US national team coach, who had coached Buchanan at Revolution, spoke to Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport in an interview published in today’s print edition, via FCInterNews.
Inter have not quite made the signing of Buchanan official.
But the feeling is very much that it’s only a matter of time.
The Canadian international could arrive in the next couple of days.
Joining Inter will certainly be a big next step for Buchanan. The 24-year-old has shone in Major League Soccer and in the Belgian Pro League, but Serie A will be a step up in quality.
Moreover, the Nerazzurri have expectations of competing at the highest level, against top quality opposition. That’s the case both domestically and in Europe.
So Buchanan will need to prove that his profile as well as his consistency and room for improvement are right for this Inter team.
But for his part, the player’s former coach from Revolution feels that Buchanan is capable of making the step up.
Bruce Arena: Tajon Buchanan Ready To Make Step Up At Inter
Buchanan’s former coach Arena told the Gazzetta that “I have no doubts about his quality.”
“Inter have the right system of play for him,” he continued.
“He’s very good in one-on-one situations,” Arena noted of Buchanan. “He likes to beat the defender marking him for pace.”
The coach said of the Canadian that “If there’s one area in which he’s improved, it’s assists.”
“Of course, he’ll have to adapt.”
But as far as whether he anticipates problems settling in for Buchanan, Arena replied “No. I think he’ll surprise you.”
“But an adaptation period is still necessary.”
The coach noted that “Inter require a lot of tactical discipline and sacrifice in defence.”
“But those are all things that he can learn.”
“He certainly doesn’t lack the desire to learn,” Arena said of Buchanan. “And also the courage to take risks.”
