Scouser Garner came through the youth system at United before joining Everton in 2022 for £15m.
Garner is now being linked with a return to Old Trafford and Treble winner Butt told Paddy Power: "I had him as a young kid at United, he’s a great lad.
"He's got it all, he can pass through the lines, he can defend, he can tackle, he can sprint.
"He's like a poorer man's version of (Steven) Gerrard. Not as good as Gerrard, but he's in that mould; he can do everything as a modern-day midfielder.
"At the time (of Garner leaving) Jimmy wasn't at the level to burst into United and play regularly. It wasn't working, so quite rightly, he moved on and kick-started his career.
"Jimmy is a bit like the player I was. Not the most talented, but his drive and desire to get to the top is up there with anybody I've seen."