Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson has likened Aleksandar Mitrovic to Alan Shearer, claiming that his performance in Fulham’s recent play-off win over Derby was one of ‘THE best’ target man displays he’s seen.
This comes after the 70-year-old was questioned ahead of Saturday’s big play-off final between Aston Vill and Fulham – the club he manager for three years – and Hodgson has picked out the Serbian for some special praise.
Hodgson commented on his display during their 2-0 play-off semi-final win over Derby last week, highlighting just how well he used his body to hold up the ball and bring others into play – comparing him to the great Alan Shearer in the process.
Here’s what he’s had to say about the NUFC loanee ahead of the big game at Wembley this weekend:
“They have Mitrovic, who probably produced the best display of target play I have seen for a long while the other night.
“He used his body well to hold the ball up and either turn the defender, or bring others into the play – like Alan Shearer really.”
This is quite a claim to be making and a huge compliment to Mitrovic’s form at Fulham.
I can see similarities, noticing myself just how well he used his frame to pin his man and bully the opposing centre-back during the game last week, however a comparison to Shearer seems a little premature at this stage.
Shearer did this week in week out, year upon year, and this was whilst scoring silly amount of goals in the Premier League – not the Championship.
Perhaps he’s just comparing him to Shearer’s physical approach and the way he backed into players so well, but he’ll have to do this at a higher level and for several more years yet if he’s going to justify that sort of compliment.
Gayle looked a predator in the Championship, but I wouldn’t have compared him to Andy Cole..
He only said ‘a bit like’
I am a bit like Ronaldo – I have two legs and a desire to show off my six pack
Peter Edwards(Quote)
Mitrovich should stay at Newcastle
Jack(Quote)