Kevin de Bruyne's INCREDIBLE diving header was 'like Robin van Persie at his best', says Jamie Redknapp, as he compares Man City star's goal to Dutchman's famous effort

Jamie Redknapp has likened Kevin De Bruyne's opener for Manchester City against Brighton to 'Robin van Persie at his best'.

The Belgian superstar scored a diving header after 17 minutes to give Pep Guardiola's side the lead at the Amex Stadium.

It was De Bruyne's first headed goal in the Premier League, though he has netted three for Man City in all competitions. 

Rednapp compared the finish to a goal that former Arsenal and Manchester United striker Van Persie would score - with the retired striker famously scoring a stunning diving header for the Netherlands against Spain at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

During his half-time analysis on Sky Sports, Redknapp said: 'We've seen the full repertoire from this guy over the years.  

'Top corners, left foot, right foot but the one thing you didn't expect to see from him today is a Robin van Persie style diving header. 

'Phil Foden wriggles away, Kyle Walker cuts it back and that is a magnificent header, that is his first Premier League header. 

'He's got three for Man City but it makes you wonder why has he not scored so more as he's so good in that position. 

'They have been magnificent Man City I thought this was a really tricky game for them today but Brighton have not got near them and it's a wonderful, wonderful team goal and incredible technique with the header, Van Persie at his best.'

Manchester City went into the game having seen title rivals Arsenal win twice since they last played in the Premier League.

Guardiola's side produced a dominant performance in the first-half with Phil Foden bagging himself a brace before the break.

Julian Alvarez then got himself onto the scoresheet in the second-half. 

A victory for City puts them one point behind Arsenal with a game-in-hand. 

De Bruyne has scored six goals and registered 14 assists across all competitions this season.