Michy Batshuayi has dubbed N’Golo Kante as "N’Golo Messi' after seeing him showcase his dribbling ability in Chelsea’s victory over Southampton.
The Blues midfielder has earned plenty of plaudits over the last couple of seasons for his attributes as a destructive force in a holding role.
His efforts this term have been recognised with the PFA Player of the Year award, with the France international closing in on back-to-back Premier League titles.
He was, however, to demonstrate in a 4-2 win over the Saints that he is about much more than ball recovery, with one mazy run drawing comparisons to Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi.
Batshuayi played no part against Southampton, having dropped back to the bench after starting Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final with Tottenham.
Diego Costa stepped into his boots as a central striker and produced another talismanic display as he netted a vital brace.
Costa back to kill Spurs' title hopes
Those efforts also took the Spain international past the 50-goal mark for Chelsea, with the burly frontman reaching that landmark in just 85 appearances.
His contribution, along with that of Kante, has restored the Blues’ seven-point lead at the top of the Premier League table.
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