"[Luka] Modric is showing at the tournament that he is one of the best midfielders in the world. He is bringing a lot of benefit to the team," Dalic told journalists.

He added that no one would be surprised if Modric would win the Golden Ball award that is presented to the best player at the World Cup final.

Modric started in Croatia's all six games at the World Cup so far. The 32-year-old Real Madrid player was named the man of the match three times and has scored two goals at the tournament.

The final on Sunday will see France, who won the World Cup in 1998, face Croatia, who have never won the tournament. The match will take place at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium.