France coach Didier Deschamps praised Antoine Griezmann ahead of his side’s European Championship clash with Hungary, a match that will be the forward’s 50th consecutive start for his country, labelling him one of the greatest players of all time.

Griezmann, who has scored 37 goals for France in 92 caps, is set to pull six clear of the previous starts record set by Patrick Vieira. Victory on Saturday would send the world champions through to the last 16 with a match to spare.

“He is one of those players who is capable of changing games,” Deschamps told a news conference on Friday. “He is very creative, he has this ability to think outside the box, it is remarkable to watch.

“He beat a (starts) record. He is playing in consecutive games. He may not be 20 anymore, but he takes very good care of himself.

“You can see the influence he has with the goals he scores and assists he makes. Add to that the capacity he has to change the game, while getting back and doing his defensive duties. He is one of the greatest players of all time, both in Europe and worldwide.”