JOSE Fonte rates former Saints goalkeeper Kelvin Davis and Cristiano Ronaldo as the best on-pitch leaders he has played alongside.

After scoring his second goal in as many games for Lille in Ligue 1 on Sunday, he was asked by the FRench sports newspaper L’Equipe which former teammates stood out for their leadership qualities.

He said; “I had a few, but there are two that really impressed me.

“The is first a Southampton goalkeeper, Kelvin Davis.

“He communicated a lot. He was behind me, always giving me information.

“The second is Cristiano Ronaldo.

“He is a leader by example.

“He works very hard, is an example of professionalism.

“This is the type of leader who does the job on the ground.

“He has the responsibilities on his back, and he will do the right thing.

“And he shows you the way, always to train hard, to score goals.

“But he does not talk much or give information as a defender can, obviously.”

Fonte and Davis were regulars together during Saints promotions’ from League One and the Championship from 2010-12.

They also played together, albeit less frequently, in the Premier League.

Davis, who was awarded a testimonial, remains at the club as an assistant coach.

Asked about the best managers he played under, Fonte mentioned two from his Saints career.

“I was lucky to have good coaches.

“I will always remember [Mauricio] Pochettino, which was a real source of inspiration, Ronald Koeman also.

“But the leader I have to talk about is Fernando Santos (Portugal).

“When he speaks, you believe in him.

“It’s amazing, he had so much confidence in us, the players, during the Euros… Sorry, I had to tell you about that, even if you are French!”