Bolton trialist Jeff Larentowicz likened to ex-Chelsea star Makelele

Bolton Wanderers trialist Jeff Larentowicz has been likened to former Real Madrid and Chelsea great Claude Makelele.

The Colorado Rapids midfielder is currently trialling with the Trotters on recommendation of USA coach Jurgen Klinsmann.

Rapids goalkeeper Chris Sharpe, who had spells with Southampton and Chesterfield, says Larentowicz can fit easily in any quality midfield, telling tribalfootball.com: "Jeff reminds me of a young Makelele. Hard nosed, hard working, breaks things down very quickly in defense, very strong in a challenge. Simple on the ball, keeps the ball moving, strikes a ball up their with the best of them when he gets a hold of it!

"Jeff is primarily a defensive midfielder, but with Pablo in that hole, he is asked to push on a little higher when we are going forward and he does that very well. Dangerous around the box from dead balls with his power."

Sharpe feels the presence of fellow American Stu Holden, who is recovering from knee surgery, will help Larentowicz.

"I am sure very important. I don’t know how well they know each other, but Jeff had played against Stu for a few years here in the MLS before Stu left so i am sure there is a relationship their as well as from previous National Team camps.

"I think just having a fellow American there is very comforting for Jeff going into a big club. From what I have heard Stu is a stand up guy and no doubt made Jeff feel very welcome."