Lacina Traoré

Lacina Traoré     21     Striker     FC Kuban

Radu Baicu, our Romanian correspondent, looked at Traoré more than once in 2010 and as impressive as the giant striker can be, he considered his attitude questionable.

English clubs (including Arsenal who spent a great deal of time studying the Ivory Coast born striker) monitored progress on a regular basis but consistency was often lacking at Cluj and interest was never followed up despite the occasional flash of brilliance.

In January, former Chelsea defender Dan Petrescu opted to take a punt on the 6ft 8 Traoré at Russian yo-yo club FC Kuban.  The move paid quick dividends as Traoré scored 8 goals in 19 appearances, helping his new club to promotion and another crack at the Russian Premier League.

On his day he can be as destructive as any striker in Europe, but those days can be few and far between. Playing at a higher level has really helped, but Traoré must understand that the only thing standing between him and greatness is himself.

2012 looks intriguing.

“Taken to Russian football like a duck to water, Kuban will do well to keep hold of him over the next year” - Domm Norris (Slavic Football Union)

C      Don’t believe your own hype.