Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has spoken of the strengths of Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk.

Aguero believes the centre-back is one of the best defenders in world football, citing the Dutchman's patient approach and imposing physical nature as just two of his world-class attributes.

"We all know Van Dijk is one of the best centre-backs in the world. He's strong, tall, has an incredible body," Aguero told El Chiringuito.

"He's very strong face to face, he plays with his body. Also, given he is so tall, he has those long legs...

"It looks like he isn't fast but he is, because of his long legs – he can reach everywhere. Two steps from him are 50 for me!

"What I like the most is the way he is so smart when defending.

"He's not anxious when marking, he's very careful and patient. That makes it difficult for many strikers.

"In my case, I'm pretty fast and I like to dribble, so I need the defender to come. But if he holds he can wait for help from another defender. He's very good at this."