RIO DE JANEIRO, April 3 -- Veteran Sao Paulo and Brazil defender Dani Alves is still the world's best in his position, according to his club coach Fernando Diniz.

Alves, who joined Sao Paulo as a free agent last August, after parting ways with Paris Saint-Germain, has been in sparkling form for the Brazilian top flight club this year.

"I have liked Daniel for a long time. I have always been very impressed by his ability to recover in a game," Diniz told reporters. "He is a dynamic guy who likes to have the ball. He has technique, intelligence, a lot of courage and personality. I agree with [Brazil head coach] Tite that he is still the world's best right back."

Despite praising Alves's prowess on the last line of defence, Diniz has mainly deployed Alves in midfield, a role the 36-year-old is relishing.

"We went through the team together to find the best position for each player and especially for him," Diniz said. "I think a player with his qualities has to touch the ball as many times as possible and he likes that responsibility. He is having a wonderful year. By playing in a central role he is able to improve the players around him."

Alves is recognized as the most decorated professional footballer in history with 43 trophies over a career spanning two decades. His most recent triumph came last July when he led hosts Brazil to the Copa America title as captain.

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