Pires Dreams Of Joining Idol Vieri At San Siro

By Gary Spate
June 16 2003

WHO would love to play alongside Inter Milan's star striker Christian Vieri? I know one man who certainly would, he goes by the name of Robert Pires.

The French international, who is currently training at Clairefontaine - the national team's camp as they prepare for the Confederations Cup, told the Italian sports newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport that he is a great admirer of the San Siro club and the Italian striker.

"It would appeal to to me to play with Christian Vieri. He is one of the most powerful and brilliant attackers in the world," said Pires.

He added: "I know of the interest from Inter and playing for them appeals to me. They are a prestigious club and their president [Massimo Moratti] has a good reputation."

Inter were forced to watch on in envy as bitter rivals AC Milan lifted the Champions League trophy at Old Trafford last month and would love to tempt the inspirational Frenchman away from Highbury.

Pires, who helped Arsenal to their second successive FA Cup victory last month, also revealed that he had been close to a switch to Serie A before linking up with the Gunners.

"A few years ago I was set to move to Juventus but I was young and not ready for Italy," he added.

"They said I was not suited to English football as well but I have won one championship and two cups."