Croatia boss Dalic praises Modric on 40th birthday: “With time he gets better and better”

Croatian coach Zlatko Dalic praised Luka Modric after yet another masterful performance for his country on Monday night.

Modric had an ideal early birthday present as Croatia beat beat Montenegro 4-0 in their World Cup qualifier last night at the Maksimir Stadium in Zagreb. With the captain’s armband on, he played 80 minutes one day before turning 40.

Luka had two key moments: for the opening goal began the move, finding Jakić on the right to get an assist. Then, in the 42nd minute, he got round Bulatovic and drew a second yellow card, which of course then resulted in a read.

In the post-match press conference following the victory over Montenegro, Dalic was asked about the continued impact of the captain and he understandably had nothing but praise.

“Luka continues to give his all, and with time he gets better and better. This evening he led the team, we were united and everyone was satisfied,” he said (via MilanPress).

Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri will be looking forward to having Modric back in the midfield control room from Sunday against Bologna, while the former Real Madrid man said some nice things about his new club too in a press conference of his own on Sunday.