Former AC Milan striker Mark Hateley has heaped praise on Bologna midfielder Lewis Ferguson.

Ferguson, who joined Bologna from Aberdeen, has impressed in his first season in Serie A.

Speaking to Grosvenor Sport, Hateley said: “I have spoken to Lewis Ferguson and he told me he's absolutely loving it, especially the training and learning things in a different way.

“I know that from my own experience. When I went to Milan I was coached from day one on how to be a number nine and Lewis is getting a similar benefit for his position, because of the European way of playing football.

“He's totally engaged in it and that's great when you're a young player. It keeps you hooked. The thing is, you can always come back and if Lewis does that then I think everyone will see a much better player.

“That's what happened to me. I listened and learned at Milan and then Monaco and when I came to sign for Rangers I was more or less a complete player.

“It was also the life experience. You come out of your comfort zone when you move abroad and that's important too."