Paris Saint-Germain's Javier Pastore has spoken of the influence that Zinedine Zidane and Juan Roman Riquelme have had in shaping his style of play.

The Argentine provided the second highest number of assists in Ligue 1 last season with 12, a number bettered only by former Marseille man Dimitri Payet.

It is an aspect of the game that the 26-year-old, who looked to the likes of Zidane and Riquelme for inspiration as a youngster, takes immense pride in.

However, it is his compatriot that he seeks to emulate more than the former France international.

"I have always worshipped playmakers. The elegance of Zidane influenced me a lot, but, when I was small, I only had eyes for Riquelme," Pastore told Le Journal du Dimanche.

"I watched with my eyes glued to the television screen the relationship he created with his striker.

"Through him, I discovered the gesture I love the most: the pass. He was an idol in South America.

"He revived the role of the central playmaker. I am very far from his influence on the game. I long to get as close as possible."