Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane compares Spanish youngster Marco Asensio to Barcelona star Lionel Messi

ZINEDINE ZIDANE has heaped praise on Real Madrid youngster Marco Asensio - comparing him to Lionel Messi.

The 20-year-old returned to the Bernabeu this summer after completing a loan spell with Espanyol and has left a lasting impression on the Madrid legend.

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The midfielder has been given extensive game time since joining the club, and has been able to keep his place in side with some fantastic strikes and impressive performances.

Marca reports that Zidane has heaped huge praise on Asensio behind the scenes, with the Frenchman claiming the Spanish youngster has the best left foot in football since Lionel Messi.

Madrid are certainly keen to keep him at the club, renewing Asensio's contract and later ensuring he wouldn't go out on loan, his future is clearly in Madrid.