Emerson: I can be Real Madrid's new Makelele

Emerson is happy to be considered Real Madrid's new 'Makelele' after he was unveiled at the Santiago Bernabeu yesterday.
 
The former Juventus midfielder says he can fill the massive gulf left by Claude Makelele almost three years ago: "Claude is a player I admire very much. Mainly for his capacity to interpret the game and his position on the field."

"Although I have some different qualities, I will try to do what Capello requests of me. If he thinks that I must perform a more destructive function, I will do it, I'm always helping the team."

Emerson added: "I'm here to win trophies. Real Madrid are a huge club and being so long without a trophy is not good enough."

Asked about Roberto Carlos' future, Emerson replied: "Roberto is a great friend of mine and teammate. I hope that he remains with Real Madrid for many years because he will be very useful for the team."