Conte sings praise of Tottenham star Wanyama

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has singled out Victor Wanyama as the man who could deny his side a chance to win a double this season.

Chelsea have been drawn to face Tottenham in the FA Cup semi-final clash at Wembley and Conte knows that the former Southampton player, 25, will be a major influence when they face off on the weekend of April 22 and 23.

Wanyama was outstanding during Spurs’ 2-0 win against Chelsea in January, a game in which he not only made more passes, tackles and recoveries than any of his team-mates, but also covered more ground than anyone in a Chelsea shirt.

“There is a player who is very important for them now, Wanyama. He is a really good player. He has quality during the game, stamina, work rate and shows great commitment for the team. I like these things about him,” Conte told Sky Sports.

The Kenyan captain has become as important for Spurs this season as N’Golo Kante has in transforming the fortunes of the Premier League leaders and clear title favourites. Wanyama has started all 27 of Tottenham’s Premier League fixtures and been key to a home record in which they have won 12 of their 14 encounters in the competition.