Advertisement

Scott McTominay labelled Napoli's 'gladiator' as Scotland hero's sensational Serie A form hailed by Italian media

Scott McTominay of SSC Napoli celebrates the win during the Serie A match between Atalanta and Napoli
-Credit:SSC NAPOLI via Getty Images


It was another weekend to remember for Scott McTominay at Napoli.

The midfielder has enjoyed a stunning debut season in Serie A since his £25million move from Manchester United last summer, and netted his sixth goal of the season as Antonio Conte's men edged beyond Atalanta 3-2 in Bergamo - keeping his side at the top of the table, despite the departure of star man Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to PSG. McTominay has made himself a cult hero since his move, but has also caught the eye of experts and pundits alike - even being compared to Roma and Brazil legend Falcao.

However his performance in the Bergamo victory wouldn't have looked out of place in Rome's iconic Colosseum, according to La Gazetto Dello Sport. Rating the 28-year-old's showing, they said: "In an English-style match, what better environment to rise once again as a gladiator? Another important goal, another total performance."

READ MORE: Celtic flop signed from Man Utd set to miss Parkhead return in Champions League as mystery surrounds absence

READ MORE: Brendan Rodgers went out of his way with Celtic second coming declaration and now must be man of his word – Keith Jackson

McTominay's performance also earned plaudits from Turin newspaper TuttoSport, who said: "Always dangerous when he gets in on goal, he also gives a big hand when it comes to covering the defence." The 58-time Scotland cap has certainly caught the eye in Serie A with his work ethic, with stats published earlier this year showing that he covered more ground than any other player in the Italian top flight.

And he's become adored by fans in his new home city after posting on social media following the game: "A very important victory!!!! Goodnight Naples." One fan dubbed McTominay "The King of Scotland" whilst another added: "Scott you’re definitely half Scottish and half Neapolitan."

That love is mutual too, with the midfielder telling the BBC earlier this year: "I saw the passionate fans, I saw the coach, I saw the players and I saw an opportunity. I took it. I didn't look back. It didn't take me long to make the decision because I knew that was what I wanted and I'll never have any regrets in my life. As soon as I put my mind to something I want to do it, that's it. There's no holding me back. I love this place, I love the fans, I love my teammates. It has been a pleasure."