Luka Modric believes Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic could be the player to take over the mantle of being Croatia's leading player when he steps away from the international stage, according to reports.
Having made his debut for his country back in 2006, Modric is closing in on 150 caps, and is expected to play in this year's World Cup in Qatar, which gets underway in November.
However, he is set to turn 37 in September, and appears to be aware that he is in the twilight of his international career.
Looking ahead to who could potentially replace him as Croatia's key man, Modric tipped Kovacic to continue to drive the team forwards.