Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini regards David Silva already among the best players in the world.
Silva faces Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium today following yet another red-hot performance - this time for his country.
City's £24m man dazzled as he scored twice for Spain to end Scotland's hopes of qualifying for Euro 2012 on Tuesday.
And Mancini said: "Silva is one of the best players in the world. There is no doubt about that. He played very well against Scotland and scored two goals and has thankfully come back OK.
"He is an excellent player who has improved a lot in the last year and, obviously, I hope that improvement continues."
