Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic admits he appreciates praise from former Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho.

Mourinho heaped praise on the midfielder after his goal scoring performance in Barcelona's 1-0 El Clasico win over Real Madrid this month.

He said: "He is a fantastic player at every level.

"He does defensive work on the right side to compensate for Messi and he runs miles.

"In ball possession he is fantastic and he is simple and effective."

Speaking before Croatia's Euro 2020 qualifier with Hungary, Rakitic gave his humble response to the 56-year-old's comments.

He said: "I do not have enough words to thank Mourinho, he is one of the best experts in the world."

The midfielder then hilariously added: "I do not know if my Dad has ever praised me in a better way.

"These are very nice praises that I enjoy."