'The best' - Vinicius Junior pays ultimate compliment to Kyle Walker after England defender is forced off in first half of Three Lions' Brazil defeat

After stopping Vinicius from scoring with a sliding goal-line intervention, the full-back left the pitch with a hamstring injury just 20 minutes into the match. Walker's departure disappointed Vinicius, the Brazilian winger stated, adding that he is always eager to put himself to the test against the Manchester City fullback, whom he regards as the best defender in the world.

Speaking to the media after the game, Vinicius said: "Ah, it’s all very sad. Every time a player leaves the pitch injured it’s very sad, not only for the player but for all of us who are there on the pitch.

"We want to play against the best, Walker, I always say, he’s the best defender I’ve ever faced and it’s always a very good duel. He respects me a lot and I respect him a lot. Each one defends their side with the greatest will in the world."

The two have had some intense matches in the Champions League over the past several years. The two players could square off once more when Man City take on Real Madrid in the quarter-finals of the Champions League next month. However, that will depend on how serious Walker's recent issue is and if he can return to action.

If the duo is lucky, they will get to face off against each other twice in a week with Real Madrid set to take on Manchester City in the Champions League quarter-final on April 9 at the Santiago Bernabeu and on April 17 at the Etihad Stadium.