Aston Villa defender Richard Dunne has said that he sees some similarities between Newcastle legend Alan Shearer and Arsenal's Robin van Persie.

Dunne, who was faced with defending Shearer during his time spent at Goodison Park and at the Etihad Stadium, insists that the Arsenal man possesses similar talents to the former England international.

"Robin van Persie is a clever centre-forward," he told the club's official website. "I don't think he is lightning fast but there is no-one out there at the moment with sharper movement.

"It's his movement, allied to his finishing which makes him the player that he is. You always get quick players. But then there are others who don't rely so much on their pace.

"Van Persie is one. Shearer was another. He was clever and he had strength and good ability to win free-kicks. Anyone who puts van Persie in their team is going to be a top side."

Aston Villa take on Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in the FA Cup fourth round this afternoon.