Dimitar Berbatov has lauded his former Tottenham team-mate Gareth Bale as "one of the best players in the world".

Bale is in line to face AC Milan in the Champions League tomorrow at White Hart Lane, with Spurs holding a 1-0 advantage, after recovering from injury.

Harry Redknapp's side are again pushing for a top-four place this season and Manchester United striker Berbatov is delighted to see his old club doing so well.

"Their position doesn't surprise me. When I was there I was aware of the young talent that is now their major asset - players like Aaron Lennon and Gareth Bale have matured and become great players, " he said in an interview posted on manutd.com.

"When I was there Bale was a talented teenager, now he's one of the best players in the world. I saw he had potential. He trained hard and was pushing to be involved.

"I'm glad they kept faith in him - other teams were interested in buying him - now they're reaping the rewards."