Gianfranco Zola has predicted an extremely bright future ahead for Arsenal loanee Krystian Bielik.

The young Polish defender has impressed over the past couple of weeks, particularly in the draw over Newcastle United last weekend, which ended in a 0-0 draw.

There were some stark signs of improvement in the Blues ranks during the draw with the title-chasing Mapgies but there's still plenty of work to do if they're to avoid the play-offs.

But a real highlight in Zola's eyes over the past few weeks has been the continued development of Bielik, who is having his first-taste of consistent first-team football.

And the Italian has likened him to fellow Arsenal youngster Hector Bellerin, whom Zola managed briefly during his time with Watford.

"He looks like he (Bielik) has been playing a while," Zola told the Birmingham Mail.

"He reminds me when (Hector) Bellerin came with me to Watford, he stayed with me one week and then I said 'Go'.

You can see straight away when a player has got something special," he added.

Arsenal youngster Bielik will face some seriously tough competition when he does return to the Emirates at the end of the season but his ability to play across the whole of the back-four and in midfield very much plays into his hands.

The Pole has become a real presence in the Birmingham back-four and there's little doubting Zola might have wanted his services earlier, having sealed the deal just before the transfer window shut in January.

Blues fans, have you been impressed with the on-loan Arsenal man? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!