Everton striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni says teammate Stephen Pienaar has one of the Premiership's outstanding players this season.

The pair have formed a close friendship since they both arrived at Everton in the summer of 2007.

Pienaar has become a key part of Everton's midfield while Yakubu has been a regular goalscorer over the last three seasons.

"I have played with so many midfielders and I think Steven is one of the best I have played with," Yakubu told evertontv.

In fact, such is his admiration for the former-Ajax man, Yakubu would love it if he could play alongside him at international level as well as for the Toffees.

"I would love him to play for the Nigeria team but he is from South Africa!" grinned the striker. "He works so hard, chases everything and he passes the ball so intelligently. This is probably his best season so far.

"When he came to the Prem he found it difficult bit he adapted quickly which was great."