Players who have featured in the Premier League in the past 25 years have often found Chelsea one of their toughest opponents to come up against.
The Blues have been led by the likes of John Terry, Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba in the modern era, winning the Premier League five times since the turn of the century.
As well as the big names who will go down as legends of the club, some quality individuals have also played their part in various versions of title-winning sides.
You can choose one Chelsea legend to play in Liam Rosenior’s team today. Who are you calling? 🤔
Imagine this Chelsea team with Didier Drogba! 🔥
One of those who is perhaps better known for the impact he had elsewhere is Claude Makelele. The Frenchman would also play plenty of games with Real Madrid and PSG.
Jermain Defoe hated playing against Claude Makelele at Chelsea
However, he played a key role in two title-winning sides, and clearly left a lasting impression on one of the greatest strikers the league has ever seen, Jermain Defoe.
The former Tottenham man was asked on TNT Sports’ TikTok about his toughest opponent, and after naming Chelsea he explained that Makelele was key to them being so difficult to play.
He said: “Probably the Chelsea team. When you had Makelele just standing in front of the back four, and you couldn’t get the ball. That team.”
Many would often pick Terry or Lampard out to be the best player in the side when Jose Mourinho was first in charge, making Makelele one of the underrated members in the club’s illustrious history.
Makelele inspiring current Chelsea stars
Arguably the strongest part of Chelsea’s current squad is the midfield. The Blues have spent big money to construct a very strong set of options in that position.
Moises Caicedo has named Makelele as an inspiration to him while developing his skills, and he is quickly showing to have the same amount of importance to the first team.
The Ecuador international was back in the starting side to face Cardiff City after serving his three-match suspension, and the break could actually do him the world of good.
He will also be back in the XI to face Newcastle at the weekend, with them looking to close the gap again on Aston Villa above them.
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