Paul Dickov has saluted teenage defender James Tarkowski likening the 19-year-old to his former Manchester City  and team-mate Richard Dunne.

The Latics manager has praised Tarkowski who has been  more than an able replacement for the injured Zander Diamond.

"James reminds me of Richard Dunne because of his shape. They are similar in size, build and the way they play," explained Dickov.

He added that he had no qualms about playing Tarkowski who broke into Latics' first team towards the end of last season when he made nine appearances.

Tarkowski missed most of pre-season after breaking his toe and, having been ruled out of an important part of the campaign, was left playing catch up fitness wise.

Dickov also added that Latics have had to treat Tarkowski  with kid gloves because of his age and build.

He said: "As James is young you automatically think his recovery times after games will be less.

"As he is big boned, he takes more time to recover so we have to be careful with him."

Tarkowski has made four apearances for Latics this season but, with Diamond expected to be out for three weeks, he is expected to have an extended run in the side.