Ways to get him to realize i like him even though im kind of shy?

So i really like one of my guy friends..we've never really hung out alone, but i talk to him and text him a lot. He always compliments me and he's really nice &funny, so i think he might like me? is there a way that i can drop somewhat obvious hints over texts without actually telling him that i like him? I'm kind of shy and i would never be able to ask him out or anything, but i really want him to know im interested. Thanks so much!(: