Matic: Chelsea star Kante better than Makelele

Claude Makelele has always been the one player Chelsea have not quite replaced, but Nemanja Matic believes new man N’Golo Kante is even better than his fellow Frenchman.

Makelele spent five seasons at Stamford Bridge and became a cult figure, with his energetic defensive displays still talked about in West London.

The likes of Michael Essien, John Obi Mikel and Matic have all tried to ably replace him, but none have been able to come close.

However Kante, signed from Leicester in the summer, has made an impressive start and Matic says he is a step up on Makelele.

(Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images)

“I know how difficult it is to play that position and I’m very happy because N’Golo is doing very well and is going to be a very important player for us, maybe one of the most important players in this season,” he said.

“It is very hard for him and it’s going to be hard, but I’m sure that he is ready.

“Many people say that he is the new Makelele, but I don’t think so. Makelele was a great player and we all respect him, me especially because I know that position and how it is difficult to play.

“But I think that N’Golo is better than him. He is doing his defensive job very well and with the ball he has some extra quality.”