Paul Merson: 'Manchester United's Zlatan Ibrahimovic is no longer world class'

Zlatan Ibrahimovic rues a missed chance during the game between Manchester United and Leicester City on September 24, 2016
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Paul Merson says that Manchester United's Zlatan Ibrahimovic is no longer a "world-class striker".

Paul Merson has claimed that Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is no longer "world class" following a dip in form.

The former Sweden international started the season well with four goals in his first four Premier League games, but he has not scored since September 29.

Former Arsenal player Merson believes that Ibrahimovic will get chances to end his drought against Burnley this weekend, but does not regard him as one of the world's best forwards.

"Zlatan Ibrahimovic was a world-class striker but he's not anymore," Merson told Sky Sports News. "He is 35 and playing in the hardest league in the world so as the season goes on, I can't see him getting better.

"Jose Mourinho will obviously stick with him despite his recent struggles and he should get a few opportunities against Burnley, who haven't looked up to scratch away from Turf Moor."

Ibrahimovic joined United on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer.

Paul Merson answers questions during Gillette Soccer Saturday Live in Bournemouth on March 19, 2012
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Tables
TeamPWDLFAGDPTS
1Manchester CityMan City107212491523
2Arsenal1072123101323
3Liverpool1072124131123
4Chelsea107122191222
5Tottenham HotspurSpurs10550145920
6Everton10532158718
7Watford104331413115
8Manchester UnitedMan Utd104331312115
9Southampton103431110113
10Bournemouth103341214-212
11Leicester CityLeicester103341216-412
12Stoke CityStoke103341217-512
13Crystal Palace103251416-211
14Burnley10325813-511
15Middlesbrough10244911-210
16West Bromwich AlbionWest Brom102441014-410
17West Ham UnitedWest Ham103161019-910
18Hull City10217823-157
19Swansea CitySwansea10127918-95
20Sunderland10028720-132