Former Derby County and Cruz Azul star Tito Villa has paid a glowing tribute to Tigres UANL striker André-Pierre Gignac.

The former France international, 34, is now just three goals away from breaking into the top ten of all-time Liga MX goalscorers - replacing Villa in the process.

And for his part, Villa says he'll be delighted when Gignac passes his mark.

He posted to social media: "Let me run, put a red carpet down and I will kneel down for one of the best footballers to come to this league!"

Gignac now has 121 goals in the Liga MX and is placed only three away from equaling Villa in 10th spot of the highest goalscorers in Mexican football this century.

The veteran has scored nine goals so far this term.