"For me, he was always top class. He is the best midfielder in the world," said Kuyt.
"He has got everything. He has got pace, he can score goals, a great shot from outside the box, he can tackle, I could go on and on.
"Stevie is playing exceptional this year. He has made a lot of goals. He is so important for the team. So I think he deserves to win the player of the league."