Merson compares Dalot's superb cross for McTominay's winning goal to Beckham

Diogo Dalot's pinpoint cross onto the head of Scott McTominay, which helped Manchester United defeat Aston Villa, has been described as a 'David Beckham cross'.

The high praise for the Portuguese full-back came from Paul Merson, who was watching from the Sky Sports studio at Villa Park.

In the 86th minute Kobbie Mainoo fought off the attention of two Villa players in the right-hand corner to flick it out towards Dalot.

The ball was set invitingly for Dalot and he whipped in a stunning cross first-time with speed, right onto the head of McTominay to nod in to seal a 2-1 win in what is a major boost to United's top four hopes.

'That's a David Beckham cross,' Merson said. 'That's a David Beckham cross... you've just got to get on the end of it.'

In his heyday, Beckham was considered one of the finest wingers of his generation and during his time at United much of the attacking focus came from balls whipped in from out wide.

And so comparisons to Beckham, who went on to play for the likes of Real Madrid, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, is not to be dismissed lightly.

Dalot has come in for plenty of criticism this season but this was a positive display following a positive few weeks.

For Erik ten Hag, he has never doubted his right back's qualities.

'Everyone gets criticism but he is a fantastic player who is developing very well,' the Dutchman told Match of the Day 2.

'He can play in so many positions and he is improving on crosses. He can score and his defending is improving so I am very pleased with him.'

More to follow.