AC Milan legend Rino Gattuso is full of praise for Juventus veteran Andrea Pirlo.
Gattuso insists Pirlo remains crucial for club and country.
"He and Francesco Totti remain the best players in the country," the recently sacked Palermo boss told Tuttosport.
"Andrea is 34, he is no longer a kid, but he is the first person to be aware of that. And it is only normal that he is not in top shape every Sunday.
"We are good friends and we often speak with each other. I know him really well and I can guarantee that he is in good form right now.
"I thought he did well against Milan before the international break and on Tuesday with the national side.
"He provided Mario Balotelli with one of 'his' assists against Armenia."
