Luka Modric labels Lionel Messi ‘best in history’ in snub to ex-team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo as Argentina beat Croatia

after the game, Modric praised his adversary and backed him to win the World Cup.

He said: "I hope he will win this World Cup, he is the best player in history and he deserves it. 

"He is playing a great World Cup, he shows quality and greatness in every game."

Modric's words will come as a blow to Cristiano Ronaldo's claims to the "GOAT" title.

The 37-year-old is currently without a club after his contract was terminated by Manchester United following an explosive interview with Piers Morgan.

And many, including the SunSport columnist, believe Ronaldo to be number one.

Morgan listed out his top four players ever on Twitter, saying: "I think Cristiano Ronaldo’s the best ever, Maradona 2nd, Messi 3rd (possibly 4th actually, behind R9 [Brazilian Ronaldo])."

Regardless, Messi has put in a stunning performance in Qatar and has now reached a second World Cup final.

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The Paris Saint-Germain attacker lost the 2014 final in Brazil to Germany, as eagled-eyed fans spotted a striking coincidence regarding Chelsea shirts and the last two tournament winners.

After his strike against Croatia, the 35-year-old is now level with Kylian Mbappe for the most goals in Qatar - though the Frenchman could add to his tally when facing Morocco later today.

Messi also leads the charts for assists with three, a figure which puts him level with Bruno Fernandes, Harry Kane and Antoine Griezmann.

On top of his praise for Messi, Modric thanked the Argentina fans for their warm applause for him and launched a stinging attack against referee Daniele Orsat.

He added: "I don't like to talk about referees, but this one is one of the worst. 

"I don't remember him well. It wasn't a penalty for me, and that killed us. We have to recover and win the game for third place."