EPL: He reminds me of Rio Ferdinand - William Gallas hails Arsenal star

Arsenal hero William Gallas has praised the club's defender William Saliba, saying the defender reminds him of Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand.

Gallas said Saliba has the same style as Ferdinand, adding that the French star will surprise a lot of people this season.

Saliba finally made his competitive bow for Arsenal against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park last Friday after three loan spells in the past.

The 21-year-old, who won Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year last season, was impressive against Palace last week, his performance earning him plenty of plaudits as well as a title deserved man of the match.

"Saliba is a very good player," Gallas told Genting Casino.

"When I look at him, he reminds me of a player I used to play against - and that player is Rio Ferdinand.

"If you look at how Saliba plays and how Rio played when he was young, they have the same style.

"I didn't say he will have the same career, but I hope he will. He just has a similar style to Ferdinand. I think Saliba will surprise a lot of people. He is still so young and has a lot to prove. He will get even better."