Javier Mascherano applauds Telasco Segovia, compares him with Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets

As Inter Miami continue to gear up for the first-ever game of the revamped FIFA Club World Cup, their coach, Javier Mascherano, has been boosting the team’s morale ahead of the fixture. He appreciated the contribution of every single player but gave special praise reserved for the new signing Telasco Segovia. The former Barcelona central defender went on to compare the Venezuelan international to the likes of Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets.

Speaking to the media, Javier Mascherano mentioned that Telasco Segovia has settled in the side quickly ever since his arrival in January from Casa Pia. The player has clocked 821 minutes in the ongoing campaign for the MLS outfit. Mascherano mentioned that Segovia has been phenomenal, noting that most players tend to get bogged down or take time to settle when surrounded by stars in the squad. Mascherano applauded Segovia for his professionalism, noting how quickly he got going at the club without needing a second invitation.

The way he's settled quickly, his character on the pitch, because it's not easy. Often, you come into a team, and there are certain star players, to come in and do so in the right way and not need time, and he did it based on his character.

Mascherano, speaking on the player's performances, noted that the Venezuelan international shares a similar understanding of the game to that of Sergio Busquets and Lionel Messi. He added that it is the player's character that has enabled this level of understanding. He said:

Because he understands the game, in a similar way to how Sergio Busquets understands it, to the way Lionel Messi understands it. So, in that regard, it's very easy for him.

Who is Telasco Segovia? What is special about him? 

Telasco Segovia is a Venezuelan international who made his national team debut three years ago. He plays in the heart of midfield and has recorded four goals and three assists in 16 MLS appearances this season. The 22-year-old is known for his hold-up play and line-breaking passes that enable attackers to trouble opposition defenders.