Former Dutch international Edgar Davids believes that Carles Puyol's impending exit from Barcelona is "a great loss" for the Spanish champions.

Puyol revealed last week that he will depart the Camp Nou at the end of the season, and now Davids has paid tribute to the Spanish centre-back.

"It hurts me that Puyol is leaving Barcelona and I wish him well. For me he was always the fire that the team needed," Davids told Goal.com.

"He was not the most tactical player, perhaps, but why would you need all to be technical players? Barcelona need somebody at the back who can defend and has that passion the fans love.

"I think Puyol brought those qualities to the team throughout the years and I hope that he will be successful again wherever he goes. His exit is a great loss for Barca."

Davids played alongside Puyol at the Camp Nou in the 2003-04 season.