Roy Hodgson believes Aleksandar Mitrovic played like Newcastle legend Alan Shearer in Fulham’s play-off semi-final win over Derby County.

Mitrovic, who is on loan from Newcastle, has scored 12 goals for the Cottagers since signing in January.

He is set to start in the Championship play-off final on Saturday as Fulham take on Aston Villa.

Mitrovic is surplus to requirements at parent club Newcastle and has been linked with a move to Crystal Palace in the past.

When asked about Fulham’s promotion chances, Eagles boss Hodgson said: “I was at that game at Craven Cottage when they met in the league, and Aston Villa won’t be easy to break down.

“But they will certainly have their work cut out dealing with the style of play from Fulham, not least the pace with which they attack coming from the wings with [Ryan] Sessegnon and [Ryan] Fredericks - that takes some dealing with.

“They have Mitrovic, who probably produced the best display of target play I have seen for a long while the other night [against Derby].

“He used his body well to hold the ball up and either turn the defender, or bring others into the play – like Alan Shearer really.”