Mauricio Pochettino compared Steven Davis to Spanish stars Andreas Iniesta and Xavi as he led the tributes to the Northern Ireland captain.
Davis is set to become his country's record caps holder tonight when he steps out against Bosnia-Herzegovina in Sarajevo.
With it he will surpass the longstanding record of legendary goalkeeper Pat Jennings.
Davis played under Pochettino at Southampton, and the former Spurs manager says the 35-year-old held the talent of Iniesta and Xavi.
"The talent of him I compare to football people like Xavi and [Andreas] Iniesta," Pochettino told Sky Sports.
"You put him in the same level as this type of player because of this capacity to play football, be a playmaker, the intelligence to read the game, his capacity to run.
"I think to compare Christian Eriksen to this type of player too, they make your team better.
"I remember how the people love 'Davo'. We were in Catalonia doing pre-season, we were doing a session in the afternoon in the room with a coach doing different things. He needed to go to the toilet.
"The moment he arrived back we were all very serious, then all the players and staff started to run towards him and start to celebrate. It was an unbelievable experience because it showed how the players loved him.
"I think how humble he is, that it is the most you can appreciate in a professional. He is a simple guy, a family guy, a good friend and we feel very proud and lucky to have spent time with him. He is a big player and a big person."
In a brilliant tribute piece shown on Sky Sports News, former teammate Virgil van Dijk and current manager at Rangers Steven Gerrard also add their praise.
Iconic keeper Jennings also said: "I spoke to him when he equalled the record. I'm going back to him to say well done for beating my record. He's a lovely lad and a great little player for Northern Ireland.
"He deserves it. Reaching this number of caps is about being lucky and being consistent. I was lucky with injuries and it's the same with Steven. I wish him and the team all the very best."
