"I always knew he was a good technical player but I didn't know how good he was in terms of his ability on the ball. I think his technical ability is second to none and his attitude is also fantastic.
"I saw Emre play for Inter Milan a couple of times and I have seen him play for Turkey. I have always thought he was a good player but, if I'm honest, I didn't realise just how good. It's only when you work with these players and stand by the pitch at the training ground that you appreciate exactly what they are capable of. Some of the things he does take my breath away.
"He has done a magnificent job in the absence of Michael (Owen) and Alan (Shearer)."