Cesare Prandelli says Antonio Di Natale is 'still one of the best strikers around'.
The Udinese frontman is enjoying another successful season in Serie A, with his 17 league goals making him the second top goalscorer in the division.
And the Italy boss has reserved special praise for the 35-year-old and tipped him to continue playing at the highest level for the foreseeable future.
"He is an extraordinary player that I had the honour and pleasure to coach with the national team," Prandelli told Udinese's official website.
"He is one of those players who can excite you with his class.
"I am convinced that he will continue to play, because technically he is still one of the best strikers around."
The Azzurri boss then gave a glowing appraisal of the Zebrette's infrastructure and believes they are an example of a well run football club.
"(Udinese) is a demonstration of what can be achieved with great management and football knowledge," he added.
"For years now the company behind the club have backed a great coach who is not just brilliant technically, but is a great human as well."
