Barcelona defender Dani Alves has paid tribute to Sergi Roberto, who filled in for the Brazilian at right-back during his month-long injury.

Alves picked up an ankle injury in Barcelona's first league game of the season on August 23, which forced him to miss four weeks of the campaign.

Roberto thrived on the right side of the back four, however, despite coming through the Barcelona academy as a central midfielder.

"Sergio Roberto's quality and attitude leave no doubt. It's doesn't come as a surprise. I've seen him in training every day," Alves told Barcelona TV.

"I'm happy that he was able to have his moment and that the fans are involved in the team and provide additional help. It's not his natural position, but he did very well."

Alves returned to the fold for Barcelona's 4-1 win over Levante on Sunday.