Arsenal legend Paul Merson has compared Crystal Palace forward Yannick Bolasie to a young Cristiano Ronaldo.

Bolasie, 26, has been in fine form for the Eagles over the past two seasons, demonstrating superb pace and flair as the South Londoners have climbed to sixth in the Premier League.

The Congo international has been criticised for lacking a clinical edge, but former Arsenal forward Merson believes Bolasie is beginning to cut the wastefulness out of his game.

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“He used to be one of those [players] who would do twenty step-overs and go nowhere,” Merson, who scored 78 goals for the Gunners, said on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday show.

“Now he knows when to pass, when to hit people, he’s been absolutely outstanding.

“He’s still only young, he’s not Ronaldo, but I see a bit of Ronaldo from when he first came to Manchester United.”

Bolasie, who signed for the Eagles in the summer of 2012 from Bristol City, attracted the attention of several clubs during the summer transfer window and Tottenham were said to be keen to secure his services.

The exciting winger remained at Selhurst Park and committed his future to the club in September by penning a new three-and-a-half year deal.

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