Kolkata, Sep 25 (IANS): Indian Super League (ISL) franchise Atletico de Kolkata's (ATK) striker Helder Postiga on Friday said his Portuguese teammate Cristiano Ronaldo is the best footballer he has seen and gave him an edge when comparing him with Argentine forward Lionel Messi.

Postiga who played for club Deportivo La Coruna in the La Liga last season, has seen both players from close quarters and is in awe of the records that the duo have amassed.

"Both have tremendous numbers (Messi and Ronaldo), but Ronaldo is the best, probably because he is Portuguese (laughs). And I say this because I know how he (Ronaldo) works," Postiga told reporters here.

Asked to compare Portuguese great Luis Figo and Ronaldo since he has played with both, Postiga said: "Two big players, two different personalities. Two big stars for young players to emulate. But Cristiano is more competitive on the field. He works harder."

Postiga’s former teammate Simao Sambrosa has signed as a winger with NorthEast United for the second season of the Indian Super League (ISL). Speaking about him the ATK marksman said: "Simao is a very good friend, I just spoke to him yesterday. It’s a good challenge that I will get to play against him, looking forward to it."

The Portuguese striker also chose to comment on English club Chelsea's coach Jose Mourinho who once coached him at Portuguese side Porto, saying: "Mourinho is a special coach, he has helped me grow as a player."

The 33-year-old besides representing his national team Portugal, and Porto has also played for top European clubs like Valencia, Lazio, Sporting Lisbon and Tottenham Hotspur.