Santi Cazorla has jumped in on the David Villa love-in that our players seem to be partaking in before our pre-season friendly against the MLS All-Stars.

Nacho Monreal recently spoke about how much he’s looking forward to facing his fellow Spaniard and now Santi has got in on the action, claiming that Villa was born with a gift.

“David is simply one of the best Spanish strikers ever,” the midfielder said to Arsenal Player.

“He has an amazing ability to score goals. He was born with a real gift and he has always worked hard to keep developing it.

“I admire him hugely as a footballer but I also admire him as a person – we are really good friends. He has helped me in many different ways in my career and I’m delighted he’s doing so well in the MLS.

“It will be a really interesting game. There are some great players in the MLS and we are lucky enough to be playing against the best of them. It will be a very special match for both sides. The most important thing is that we perform really well.”

482214318 all star david villa of the new york city fc gettyimages
COMMERCE CITY, CO – JULY 28: MLS All-Star David Villa of the New York City FC works out during training ahead of the MLS All-Star Game against the Tottenham Hotspur at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park on July 28, 2015 in Commerce City, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)

Although Villa was very clinical, particularly during his time a Barcelona, would I say he’s one of the best in the world? I’m not sure. However, I can understand why the likes of Santi and Nacho are looking forward to playing against him on Friday.

It’ll be interesting to see how the 34-year-old’s pace matches up now that he’s grown older. Saying this, he clearly hasn’t lost his class and style – although they say you never do – as he’s been completely deadly for New York City FC since joining in 2014.

If you fancy swooning like Santi and Nacho, here are some of his latest highlights.