Newcastle United winger Hatem Ben Arfa has been likened to Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi.

Papiss Cisse has likened Toon teammate Ben Arfa to the Argentine.

"Sometimes, with the ball at his feet, he's like Lionel Messi. The ball sticks to his feet. I like that kind of player," said Cisse.

"Ben Arfa played his A-game. That's why we took three points."

Ben Arfa is looking to seal a place in the France squad for the European Championship this summer and Cisse has no concerns about his ability.

"I am certain Hatem is capable of going to the Euros because he is really talented,' said Cisse. "He's showing it every weekend. He did it at Arsenal and again against West Brom.

"He has a great range of skills. He is the kind of player who can make the difference."