WATCH: Dimitri Payet one of the best in the world - Doria

Marseille defender Doria has hailed Dimitri Payet is one of the best players in the world.

Payet made a controversial return to Marseille in the January transfer window after two years in the Premier League with West Ham United.

And Brazilian stopper Doria has tipped the France international to lead OM back back to the top of Ligue 1 and into the Champions League.

"Payet is one of the best players in the world," Doria told Goal.

"I already knew him from my first spell. He's a very funny guy, and he's a determined player with a lot of technique. 

“I'm glad to see him come back. Mainly, I'm glad that he succeeded after leaving and then returned while still at the same level. I think it's important.”

Payet's return to the club coincided with the arrival of Patrice Evra from Juventus, and Doria is confident the experienced duo will further bolster the squad as coach Rudi Garcia hopes to lead them back into Europe.

"I think everyone realises we have a better chance of finishing in a better position with players who already have international experience, who have already been champions with their national teams and at big clubs,” added Doria. 

“I think the fact that [Payet and Evra] are part of the group solidifies our team. And we recognise that we can get even further than we originally imagined.”

Doria also believes the high-profile arrivals reinforce the building project at Marseille under new owner Frank McCourt, and championed the appointment of Garcia as a statement of intent.

"We can see with the recruitment of Evra and Payet that the new owners came to change things and achieve great victories.

“I believe the change also came with the new coach. The difference is his mentality, he wants to win all the time and passes it to the players. 

"We want to be champions of France and to be back in the Champions League," he said. "This is the most important over the next five years."