Jamie Redknapp lauded Nicolas Anelka for his clinical finishing in Chelsea's 7-2 mauling of Sunderland on Saturday.

The French striker netted a brace and was involved in most of Chelsea's goals as Carlo Ancelotti's men ran amok at Stamford Bridge to give Steve Bruce's Black Cats a real hiding.

In his column for the Daily Mail, the former Liverpool and Tottenham star said: "He's not always been universally loved, but Nicolas Anelka is a class act - for a start, his work rate for the team is massively under-rated. The Chelsea striker is quick, scores goals and can play as a spearhead. Anyone miss Didier Drogba on Saturday?

"Chelsea struggled more without Anelka when he was injured than without The Drog. They are back in the groove now."

Redknapp then went on to give his take on Manchester City's ongoing problem with their star striker, Robinho.

He mused: "The problem with Robinho is that he has been here since September 2008, but we still don't know his best position. He was lost during his 51 minutes at Everton.

"No player likes the humiliation of being a sub who is then substituted. Let's not forget he has so much talent, but unless he can look at Craig Bellamy and learn how to work for the team, he's no good to City."

As for Manchester United's lackluster season so far, the former England midfielder suggested a Spanish striker to partner Wayne Rooney for the Red Devils.

Redknapp concluded: "Sir Alex Ferguson has never really spent a lot during the January transfer window - a time that is always the most awkward to sign players.

"But if the Glazers really wanted to show their commitment to the manager and to the club, they should give him the money to sign David Villa from Valencia.

"Alongside Wayne Rooney, the Spanish goalscorer would blow a hole in the title race."