Luka Modric would be perfect replacement for Paul Scholes at Manchester United, claims former Tottenham star Darren Anderton

Luka Modric, Tottenham Hotspur

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Former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Darren Anderton believes Luka Modric would be the “perfect replacement” for Paul Scholes at Manchester United.

Modric has been in imperious form this season as Harry Redknapp’s side finished fifth in the Premier League and reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League, and while team-mate Gareth Bale stole the headlines by winning the PFA Player of the Year award, it was the Croatian playmaker who was chosen by Spurs fans as their player of the season.

The 25-year-old’s eyecatching displays have reportedly put him at the top of Sir Alex Ferguson’s list of potential replacements for Scholes, who recently announced his retirement from football after a 17-year career at Old Trafford.

Anderton can see why the United manager rates Modric so highly, although he hopes for the sake of his old club that the midfielder decides to stay at White Hart Lane.

“When you see that Paul Scholes has retired, you think that Luka Modric would be the perfect player to replace him,” Anderton told reporters.

“Let’s hope that for Tottenham’s sake that isn’t the case.

“I certainly hope he stays. For me, he has been Tottenham’s best player. He is an incredible talent, a top player. I’m sure that many top teams will be looking at him.”

Anderton is more confident that Bale will stay at the club this summer, although he admitted that failure to qualify for the Champions League again next season could dash Spurs’ hopes of keeping their flying winger in the long term.

“Gareth Bale is a very level-headed lad. I don’t think he is one to get turned by the speculation,” he added.

“I think he will stick by Tottenham and stay there. Players love playing for Harry.

“Next season is a massive season. If they weren’t to get into the Champions League next season then who knows maybe it could prove to be a problem.”