Liverpool defender Jose Enrique has described teammate Martin Skrtel as one of the "best centre-backs in the Premier League".
Skrtel has found himself relegated to the bench since the turn of the year, but Enrique has backed the Slovakian international to return to the kind of form that won him the club's player of the year award last season.
The 27-year-old told the Liverpool Echo: "I think we have one of the best centre-backs in the league in Martin Skrtel.
"Like every player he has not had a good season this year but last season he was player of the season for us.
"For me, when he comes on he will be top-class again for sure."
Skrtel is expected to remain on the bench when Liverpool face Newcastle United on Saturday evening.