Gomez shies away from Messi talk

Bayern Munich striker Mario Gomez admits he would never compare himself to Barcelona ace Lionel Messi following comments likening him to the Argentinean.

Former Bayern boss Ottmar Hitzfeld recently stated that Gomez is as important to Bayern as Messi is to Barcelona because of the number of goals the striker has plundered for the team this season.

Gomez responded by saying that although he feels honoured by the Switzerland coach's comments, he doesn't think any player currently is on the same level with Messi.

"He's flattering me, of course. No current player stands in comparison with Messi," Gomez told FIFA's official website.

"He's unique, and comfortably the best player in the world.

"I'm aware that Ottmar Hitzfeld isn't just any old commentator, he's a celebrated and successful coach, so I'm certainly proud if that's what he said. Not as much about being compared to Messi, who's a completely different type of player, but because of the significance of the statement.

"Personally, I'd never compare myself to him, but I'm aware of my strengths, and I know I have plenty of goals in me, now and in the future."

Gomez has scored an impressive 21 goals in as many appearances in all competitions this campaign.