Darron Gibson has heaped the praise on his Everton team-mate Nikica Jelavic, likening the striker to former Manchester United colleagues Michael Owen and Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Croatia international Jelavic made an immediate impact after his move from Rangers last January, scoring 11 times in just 16 appearances, as the Toffees finished the campaign strongly.

This season the 27-year-old has managed only six goals and is on a current run of two goals from 10 league games.

But former Red Devils midfielder Gibson is certain that Jelavic, who he regards as one of the best strikers with whom he has played, will soon find himself amongst the goals again.

"He's a bit like Michael Owen or Van Nistelrooy in the box," the Republic of Ireland international told the Liverpool Echo. "He's first class and I don't think there's many better than him in the Premier League at the moment.

The 25-year-old also reserved praise for the Croat's movement, observing how his clever runs often help dictate the Toffees’ attacking manoeuvres:

"He makes some great runs and he makes the passes easier for me," the Irishman added. "He makes my decision for me by his movement.”