BBC pundit says West Ham have a top player who reminds him of Leeds legend Paul Madeley

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BBC Sport pundit Garth Crooks has compared West Ham United forward Michail Antonio to Leeds United legend Paul Madeley.

Madeley spent his entire career at Elland Road, making over 500 appearances for the Whites and winning a multitude of trophies.

He was an incredibly versatile player during his career and played in every position at Leeds except goalkeeper.

And Antonio, who scored a brace for David Moyes’ Hammers en route to a 2-1 win over Burnley on Monday, has impressed Crooks by how comfortable he is in both defence and attack.

“This lad has had a fantastic season and he’s spent half his time on the treatment table,” Crooks wrote on BBC Sport about the West Ham ace, who made his Premier League Team of the Week.

“When Michail Antonio plays for West Ham, they look a different outfit – especially going forward.

“He has also been a tremendous asset to the Hammers.

“Not since former Leeds United and England midfield player Paul Madeley have I seen a footballer who is as comfortable playing in defence as he is playing in attack.

“Antonio can play anywhere. His two against Burnley have put West Ham in a glorious position and European football now looks very much on the cards.”

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Antonio has been sensational for West Ham over the years and this season his efforts have kept the Hammers within reach of a Champions League place.

For Crooks to compare him to Madeley, arguably one of the best utility men in the history of the English game who enjoyed a sensational trophy-laden career at Leeds, is a massive honour.