Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips listed Chelsea gem N’Golo Kante amongst his trickiest adversaries.
Speaking on the England YouTube channel, Phillips was asked to name the most challenging opponents he’s faced across his career.
Following Leeds’ long-awaited promotion back to the Premier League, Marcelo Bielsa’s side were pitted against some of the world’s greatest talents.
Liverpool’s Mohammed Salah and Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne were two players who Phillips found extremely difficult.
Riyad Mahrez also earned a nod from the England international.
His last shout out was saved for Chelsea’s all action 30-year-old, who is feared across the footballing board.
“Special mention to Kante because a lot of people said yesterday I was all over (the pitch) but I can guarantee Kante probably runs twice as much as I do,” said the Leeds man.
Phillips is certainly not alone in his praise for Kante.
Phil Foden also picked the Frenchman as his hardest rival; clearly, nobody is safe within England’s camp.
Make that across Europe, because so many have faced the wrath of Chelsea’s miniature warrior across the years.
Kante’s recent revival has reminded everyone why he is revered and respected around the globe.
The £30 million man’s (BBC Sport) performances in the latter stages of last season’s Champions League propelled him back to legendary status, following a few months living amongst us mere mortals.
He is now in the mix for a Ballon d’Or nomination, an award he could easily claim if France are crowned European Champions next month.
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