Michael Owen admits Javier Hernandez has surprised him at Manchester United.
Chicharito has struck 20 goals in his first season in Europe.
"He is a sharper version of what I am now," said Owen.
"When you buy a player you hope he is going to be a permanent fixture in the team but I don't think anyone could have envisaged it being so soon.
"The instinctiveness of his play inside the box to sniff out chances is impressive and he is a cracking finisher.
"He has played and scored in the World Cup and in a Champions League semi-final, which would suggest he can handle the big stage. That is important at a club like this."
