In a team of tough tacklers and robust players, Marek Hamsik stands out as the undisputed flair player and star of Slovakia.
Role in the team
A skillful and pacy footballer, he complements the compact play of his teammates by being devilishly good on the break, and pulling the strings of any counter-attack launched with clinical precision.
A classy finisher, capable of shooting with either foot, Hamsik is an intelligent player on and off the ball. His ability to make attacking runs into the opposition half is much admired, and he is recognized as integral to both club and country. The 28-year-old will have an essential part to play in his side gaining momentum in a match, and he will look to supplement his forward line with his pinpoint deliveries, or just bag the goals himself.
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Hardworking and tactical versatility, as well as his natural leadership on the pitch, make the 28-year-old a valuable asset to coach Jan Kozak and Slovakia. He is a five-time winner of the Slovak footballer of the year award, and most recently he was included in the 2015 UEFA Europa League Squad of the season. He has made 83 appearances for the national squad, scoring 17 times, and 319 appearances for Napoli (since signing in 2007), scoring 81 times. His form and consistency for Partenopei over the seasons have ensured he has constantly been a pivotal figure in the first team. In Napoli’s latest Serie A season he was at the centre of a title charge, which saw the club lead the table for the first-half of the season, before their challenge eventually tailed off in the latter stages.
One can bet that this season’s title challenge and eventual failure will prove as even greater motivation for this inspirational midfielder. And a passionate Hamsik can only be good for Slovakia. On his day (as he has showcased countless times at Napoli, and for the national side over the years) Hamsik is capable of turning a game in favour of his side.
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