September 25, 2008 - New Addition

Today marks the first Thursday that I will bring a new feature into my blog. Every Thursday I will be reviewing a player from one of the European leagues, including their past, present and future accomplishments and pitfalls.

First player review - Sotiris Ninis

This youngster (shown on the left in image from www.extra-football.com) is making headlines this week by becoming the highest paid 18-year-old in Greek football. Yesterday Ninis extended his contract with Panathinaikos FC by four years.

Ninis came on the scene in 2003 when he started playing for one of the younger teams within PAO (Panathinaikos FC). The Albanian born player always had an intense passion for futbol and was the star of his school team.

Even at his young age, Ninis already has numerous records to his name. In January 2007 he first etched his name into the record books by becoming the second youngest player to play in the Greek Superliga. He was just 16 years old.

Only 20 days later, Ninis broke another record, becoming the youngest player in history to score in a Greek championship.

Since these early record moments Ninis has become a fan favorite in Greece, captivating fans with his speed and skill. In Greece his moves have been compared to Messi, however at his young age he still has a lot learning to do.

Even though he's inexperienced, he has shown that he can handle the pressure of the big games. He's scored in major games in both the Greek Superliga, as well as the Euro Cup. Unlike other adolescent players like Freddie Adu, Ninis has constantly lived up to his hype.

Other big name teams like Arsenal, Real Madrid and Manchester United have expressed interest in the Greek player, however after his recent contract extension with PAO, I don't think he's going anywhere to soon. The fact that he did resign with his original club is huge for both PAO and it's fans, and gives them all hopes of a sucessful future.

For more information about Ninis' contract, click here.