He’s fantastic… any manager would want him! Steven Gerrard hails ‘dream’ Chelsea star

CHELSEA defender Cesar Azpilicueta is a “manager’s dream”, according to Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard.

Azpilicueta, 28, has been a consistent figure at the back for Chelsea since joining from Marseille in 2012 and is one of the first names on Antonio Conte’s team sheet.

The Spain international was named as the Premier League’s best defender by Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher in 2014 and Gerrard believes he would walk into any team.

“He’s a manager’s dream,” Gerrard said.

“He gets in 99 per cent of any team in the world because any manager would want him.

“He’s always available, he’s robust. It seems like he’s so professional as well.

“He’s a fantastic player.”

Azpilicueta is expected to start against Manchester United on Sunday (2.05pm) as Chelsea face former boss Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford.

Chelsea gaffer Antonio Conte came under increasing pressure after two league defeats on the spin but the win at home to West Brom and FA Cup romp against Hull has lifted the gloom.

The Blues continued their mini revival with an impressive performance against Barcelona on Tuesday and Azpilicueta is hoping for all three points at top-four rivals United.

“After two tough defeats a few weeks ago the team responded with two wins,” he said.

”Against Barcelona it was also a great performance from the team, nearly perfect.

“Now we have a tough game on Sunday [Man Utd] and we have to turn our heads to the next target, the Premier League, and try to get as high as possible.

“The next game is always the most important because it’s where you can get the three points.

“At the moment, we are getting closer and closer to the end of the season, so we have to get the points.”

Source: www.express.co.uk