Inter Milan legend Nicola Berti has hailed the progress of Nicolo Barella.

Berti insists Barella is capable of winning the Ballon d'Or.

He told Libero, “Three years ago when no one thought about Barella, I already named him my heir. I am pleased that I was correct.

“The criticism from the press? He started and then dropped in some matches, but there is no reason to put him under discussion.

“Barella is a player that runs for 90 minutes. If he continues like this, he would be in contention for the Ballon d'Or. He is now scoring with consistency and he can easily reach 10 goals.

“I am not exaggerating when I say that he has been in a crazy good form. Is he the best midfielder in Italy? Surely him and (Sandro) Tonali are the best in their roles,"