Uruguay coach Oscar Tavarez has praised Atletico Madrid defender Diego Godin, who is set to make his 300th La Liga appearance on Saturday.
Godin, the Uruguay captain, arrived in Spain in the summer of 2007 and made 91 league appearances for Villarreal before moving to Atletico.
"I want to congratulate Diego for reaching such an important figure in a very demanding competition," Tabarez told AS.
"Godin has a very defined, very caring personality, that sees him stand out in the group.
"I was lucky enough that destiny saw our paths cross and I'm very happy he is reaching this milestone.
"I have seen the progress he has made and I couldn't be prouder."
Centre-back Godin, 31, was honoured as the best defender in Spain's top flight last season.
He scored the equaliser at Barcelona in the last game of the 2013-14 season to earn the Rojiblancos their first league title in 18 years.
"We have seen Godin grow," Tabarez said. "If I had to highlight one unique characteristic of his, it would be his mental strength when it comes to football.
"He always wants to face challenges, respecting adversity but eager to overcome it.
"He was and is a different footballer -- he is convinced of what he can do."
Tabarez said the completion of 300 games "tells many stories, not just the football that we see."
He praised Godin for the work "involved in order to be at the best on a daily basis and to avoid injuries."
Contento de haber compartido una gran tarde charlando con los centrales y laterales de @AtletiAcademia!! ��������⚽️⚽️ pic.twitter.com/1Q2EESKVa0
- Diego Godín (@diegogodin) March 7, 2017
This week, Godin took time to speak with Atletico youth team players and posted a photograph on his Twitter account with the message: "Happy to have shared a great afternoon talking to centre-backs and full-backs at AtletiAcademia!!"
Tabarez has coached Godin in the national team since he returned to the helm in 2006, less than a year after the defender made his senior debut.
"He has earned the captaincy because of his achievements but also due to his behaviour and dedication," Tavarez said.
"In a way, he represents the best of Uruguay."