The left-back has displayed his growing ability from dead ball situations this season and admits he is trying to emulate the technique of two famous set-piece specialists
Bayern Munich defender David Alaba has revealed he is "fascinated" by the free-kick taking abilities of Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham after watching hours of footage on YouTube.
The 21-year-old has scored twice this season from dead ball situations - against CSKA Moscow and Schalke - after perfecting his technique at the end of training sessions.
And the left-back revealed to Bayern's official website the lengths he has gone to in his bid to become a free-kick specialist.
He said: "There are lots of brilliant free-kick specialists in the world. But the technique of Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham fascinates me most of all.
"It’s not that long ago that I played for the academy. I used to spend hours on the laptop watching free-kicks on YouTube - again and again. You obviously learn a thing or two."
Bayern boss Pep Guardiola recently describe Alaba as an "outstanding human and an outstanding player", with the Austria international admitting the Spaniard has taught him a great deal in a short space of time.
He added: "It's incredible to hear him say that. I’m really happy about that. I’ve learned a huge amount from him over the past few months and I’m taking in everything he tells me. And I think I can speak on behalf of all the players."
The Bavarians are unbeaten in 49 Bundesliga games this term and hold a 24-point lead over third-placed Bayer Leverkusen - who they face on Saturday.
"They’ve often shown they’re a good side. We can’t afford to think it will be a walk in the park. We need to play to our strengths to win this game.
"It’s an incredible number (of games unbeaten) but, to be honest, I wasn’t really aware of it. And it’s not an issue in the team. We try to focus on the important thing. Runs like that aren’t a priority."
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