Manchester United legend Denis Law says Chelsea striker Didier Drogba will never get the recognition he deserves unless he stops his play-acting.

He warned Drogba that he will never gain the reputation that his talent deserves unless he cuts out the theatrics that have seen him labelled a footballing con-man.

Law, a former European Footballer of the Year who scored 237 goals in 404 appearances for United, told the Sunday Mirror: "Drogba has made a reputation for throwing himself on the floor at the slightest physical contact. But he really doesn't need to do that because he is such a terrific player.

"Have you seen the sheer size and strength of the man? He is terrifying. He can rattle even the toughest centre-half.

"But he's got to realise that he won't get the recognition that his talent deserves until he stops the other antics. He's got to stop and think about how he wants to be remembered."

Law added: "To be fair to Drogba he has changed a wee bit over the last 12 months or so and I think he's a better player for it. But there are still times when I can't understand why referees and the people who run the game let him get away with it.

"It's a shame because when he's concentrating on the best parts of his game he is up there with the best in the world."