Guardiola: I have never seen a player like Ribery

The former Barcelona coach is thoroughly impressed by the tricky winger's professionalism and work rate

Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola has taken the time to praise Franck Ribery and has hailed the winger's fighting spirit.

The France international has been one of the Bavarians' undisputed star players in the first half of the 2013-14 Bundesliga campaign, netting six goals and creating eight more in 13 appearances.

Nevertheless, it's not so much Ribery's contribution in possession that has impressed Guardiola as the former Barcelona coach has now singled him out for his hard work off the ball.

"I have never seen a player with Ribery's character at this level," Guardiola was quoted as saying by Sportmasta.

"The way he keeps fighting and running for the team is incredible.

"It's an honour for me to coach Franck."

Ribery is one of three contenders in the running to win the 2013 Fifa Ballon d'Or alongside La Liga stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.