Elias Nonso Lala says he is a big fan of Nigeria legend Nwankwo Kanu.

The 20-year-ol ex Enugu Rangers ace left the shores of the country, and signed a one-year deal with Norwegian first division club Hodd in March.

''(It's) unbelievable what Kanu does with the ball. It's because of players like Kanu football is called the 'beautiful game'. I always try to imitate him on the pitch. Off the field of play, he is a model professional who is respected by all,'' says Lala to allnigeriasoccer.com.

Lala has been tipped by pundits at home and abroad as one of the future stars of Nigerian football. He started his career at Hødd FC with a bang, scoring twice in his first three games.