Gallas praises Makelele impact at Swansea

Former Chelsea and Arsenal star William Gallas has backed Claude Makelele’s tactical nous to help Swansea City continue their rise up the table.

The Frenchman was brought in by former Chelsea coach Paul Clement when he took charge at the Liberty Stadium last month.

Clement was named January’s Premier League manager of the month after turning around his new side’s fortunes, including a confidence-boosting win at Anfield over Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool.

And while Clement has rightfully received plaudits for his impact in Wales, Gallas has singled out the impact of French colleague Makelele to the Swans’ defensive organisation.

“When you had Claude Makelele in front of you, then you played with a cigar in your mouth. That’s how it felt,” said Gallas.

Photo credit should read FRANCK FIFE/AFP/Getty Images

“As a defender, it was great to play with Claude as he was so clever.

“He had experience of playing for Real Madrid and won the Champions League there.

“When he arrived at Chelsea I learned a lot from him. He spoke to me on and off the pitch, telling me what to do to help the team.

“Now the players at Swansea are benefiting from the same advice and knowledge that Claude was giving me.

“He knows football very well, and when you have a coach that can explain everything then he makes your job easier.”