Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger praised Holger Badstuber as "one of the best defenders in the world in the build-up" after he returned to action in the 8-0 humiliation of Hamburg following five months out.
Badstuber, who last played in the 2-0 victory over Stuttgart in September when he suffered a tendon injury, stepped in for the suspended Jerome Boateng and touched the ball 117 teams, finding the target with 90 percent of his passes.
And midfielder Schweinsteiger -- who had only five more touches than his defensive colleague -- told Bayern's official wesbite: "We're delighted to have him back.
"Thanks to his fantastic left foot, Holger is one of the best defenders in the world in the build-up."
Coach Pep Guardiola also praised the Germany international, saying: "We're all delighted for Holger.
"He has many great qualities. He's good in the air and quick, but he has truly outstanding quality in the build-up. I hope he can now train, train and train, and play, play and play."
Badstuber, 25, said: "It was terrific. I felt good, and that's important in itself. It gives me something to build on.
"It's another step back towards where I was, but I know I definitely need more time."