Tottenham midfielder Christian Eriksen has claimed that Gareth Bale is “very, very close” to catching up to the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Wales’ Uefa Nations League clash against Denmark on Friday.

Wales will win League B Group 4 if they can dethrone Eriksen’s side at the Cardiff City Stadium, but the Danes have a game in hand on Ryan Giggs’ side so a draw could prove detrimental for Wales.

Bale and Eriksen are the two standout players of the tie and the Danish talisman was quick to sing the praises of his rival Real Madrid star, who left Spurs in the same summer Eriksen joined.

“He’s a top, top player,” Eriksen said.

Eriksen scored in the reverse fixture as Denmark beat Wales 2-0 (Getty)

“Nobody in the world is the same as Messi or Ronaldo, but he’s in a group who are very, very close behind them.

“He has been playing at Real Madrid for a long time now and he has done very well there. Even to ask the question about how he compares to Messi or Ronaldo shows he is up there.

“Bale is someone who can always give them something extra. He does it in any team he plays for.

“He is very quick, very direct, and he is always guaranteed for a few goals. International football is all about getting goals, and he does that.”

Wales have had a promising start under Ryan Giggs, despite suffering defeats to Denmark and Spain, boasting a pair of wins over Ireland whic have kept the squad in positive spirit and position. And Eriksen acknowledged the improvement their opponents have made under the legendary Manchester United midfielder.

Giggs feels Wales weren’t at their best against Spain and were punished as a result (Getty)

“I remember we were watching Wales against Ireland in the first game between them [Wales won 4-1], and they were very impressive,” he added.

“Going forward, they are very good. They have young, quick wingers and they are very good in attack.

“His [Giggs’] mentality is clear, and that has transferred to the team. Wales want to attack and play forward.

“We know it is like a final on Friday, and Wales have the possibility to win the group if they win the game.

“We know that, and it will be a fun game to play in front of a full stadium and in a good atmosphere. There will be an extra feeling which will make it different to a friendly game, so that is good.