Zlatan Ibrahimovic hails "important" David Beckham

Paris Saint-Germain striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has hailed David Beckham for his impact at the club since joining in January.

The former England captain moved to the French giants on a deal until the end of the season, having called an end to his time at Los Angeles Galaxy.

While some have claimed that the 37-year-old was signed to raise the image of the Parisians, Ibrahimovic is adamant that Beckham is doing as much for the club on the pitch as he is doing off it.

"I think he has been very important for us," Ibrahimovic told ESPN. "Because in the situation that we are in now, the club has been changing from a normal club to a top club, and Beckham gives you some kind of confidence.

"He has the responsibility, on the pitch and off the pitch, to lead the way for these two months which is very important. He has a quality, a big quality; he has a touch that I haven't seen many players have. And he is very elegant when he plays."

PSG face Barcelona at Camp Nou on Wednesday in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie.