Blues legend Lampard hails Kante

Chelsea legend Frank Lampard believes N’Golo Kante is even better than former Blues star Claude Makelele and on current form is the best central midfielder in the world.

Lampard has previously likened his ex-Chelsea team-mate Makelele to Kante, who has been outstanding since his move to Stamford Bridge from Leicester.

But his performance in Monday’s FA Cup victory over Manchester United further convinced Chelsea’s record goalscorer that Kante is on a another level.

Speaking on the BBC, Lampard said: “I compared him to Claude Makelele last season, but he’s got even more to his game than Makelele.

“I would go so far as to say N’Golo Kante is the best central midfield player in the world right now.”

Lampard was also full of praise for Eden Hazard, who could not be suppressed by United despite being the victim of some crunching challenges from the visitors, particularly in the opening 25 minutes of the game.

Lampard said: “Eden Hazard has been incredible. I was lucky enough to play with him myself and I saw the potential in him as a young player.

“Great ability, very carefree kind of player, very laid back off the pitch, but when he plays he has that magic.”

“And once he gets into those central areas he can add goals and assists to his game and move himself into the real top bracket of world football.”