The Egypt striker is making headlines every weekend through his lethal goals and endless effort with Wigan in his first season in Europe.

"A lot of people have been talking about the Wigan striker Amr Zaki," Anelka wrote in his Eurosport-Yahoo! blog.

"To be honest I'd never really heard of him before as he only really played in Africa."

Zaki scored five league goals for Wigan, whom he joined on a one-year loan from Zamalek.

He also added another in the Carling Cup, taking his goal tally to six in seven competitive games.

"He has scored a lot of goals since the start of the season and has really made an impression," Anelka went on.

"He needs to continue this form over the season, and several seasons, but he is a player who runs lots and who really pounds the turf when he plays.

"This is something I appreciate a lot, and I know the fans do too."