Former Ajax and AC Milan striker Marco Van Basten was full of praise for Manchester City defender Nathan Ake in an interview with Dutch media outlet Ziggo Sport.

The legendary centre-forward praised Ake for his defensive ability, technical prowess and the consistency of his performance for both club and country. Additionally, he also expressed his admiration for the Dutch defender’s adaptability.

On Ake, Van Basten said: “[He is] very solid and stable. He also makes almost no mistakes, and he is very comfortable on the ball. He is also present with a header here and there. So, he is just a very all-round footballer who continues to perform well and consistently.

“You don’t see that much, players who are so consistent. He can also play at left-back and as a centre-back. He is also very strong on the ball, and you need that in both those positions.”

Ake is currently enjoying arguably the best season of his career so far at City. He has made 35 appearances in all competitions for the Sky Blues so far, scoring two goals.

He signed for City in 2020, after the club bought him for a fee of £41 million from AFC Bournemouth. After a shaky start to life at the Etihad Stadium, he now one of the best defenders that the Premier League has to offer.