Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has been effusive in his praise for defender Cesar Azpilicueta's performances this season.
The versatile Spaniard originally joined the club as a left-back, but has since played as aright-back, and now as a right sided centre-back as part of a back three.
And Conte, speaking at theChelsea Pitch Owners gala dinner on Thursday night, made clear his thoughts on Azpilicueta's season so far.
He's incredible in his new role,� he said - viaYahoo Sports.One of the best in the world in this role.�
The 27-year-old has been an ever present as part of Chelsea's efficient defence, appearing in 26 Premier League games in which the Blues have conceded just 19 goals.
It could be the case that Azpilicueta is considered as a candidate for player of the year at the club, such is the understated impact he has had this season.
The defender admittedlast monththat the crucial change to a3-4-3 system was difficult to adjust to at first.
"At the beginning it was a bit strange,' he said. "Most of us needed help playing in that system.But the manager decided to change the formation and since then we have been amazing. We have worked really hard and improved under that system."
Azpilicueta has proved an integral part of the side now ten points clear at the top of the Premier League with just 12 games remaining.
The Blues have lost just one league game since a 3-0defeat at Arsenal in September which prompted Conte's tactical switch.