"I have watched Ryan through the years and he has been the best player I have ever seen for Wales," he said.
"I am a big Ian Rush fan. He was my hero when I was growing up, so to say Ryan tops him hurts. It is the best compliment I can give him because I am a Liverpool fan.
"Ryan has everything and you can now see more than ever how intelligent a player he is because his football brain has become more important as he has lost a bit of quickness. He has had such a good season, winning the Premiership for a record ninth time, and his hunger to win more titles proves he is a special player.
"It has been a privilege not just to watch him but to be a team-mate of his. Thank God he is Welsh.
"People have questioned his commitment but as a Welsh player he is one of the most passionate I have ever played with."