Manchester City defender Kolo Toure has heaped praise upon his teammate and brother Yaya.

Yaya has established himself as an integral part of Manchester City's title-chasing team, and his absence during the Africa Cup of Nations coincided with a loss of form for the club.

The former Barcelona midfielder was also missing for City's 1-0 loss to Sporting in midweek, leaving Kolo in no doubt as to how much his brother means to the team.

"You know Yaya's quality - he is a great player. The team helps him play well and he helps his teammates," said the former Arsenal defender.

"He is technically unbelievable - he can play up front, at the back, down the middle, anywhere. He is a great player.

"Obviously we have some great players in this team and we are glad we have him as well."

City currently sit top of the Premier League table, two points clear of local rivals Manchester United.