Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger understands why people compare Chelsea counterpart Andre Villas-Boas to him.

At just 34 the Portuguese boss has come a great way in a short space of time and Wenger - who took the reins at Nancy-Lorraine at a similar age - says his early desire to achieve is worthy of respect.

"I see comparisons a little bit yes," Wenger told Arsenal Player. "Certainly he started young and [that makes him] committed and passionate.

"There are similarities in managers' careers because this is a job that demands massive passion. Certainly there are similarities there.

"I don't know him very well, although I had contact with him at the manager's meeting in Geneva. I like him, he's an honest, open and competent guy - I rate him."