Former Chelsea goalkeeper Willy Caballero believes N’Golo Kante is still the best defensive midfielder in the sport.
Speaking to the Southampton media channel, Caballero claimed that the France international remains at the very top of the pile, despite being someway off his peak for a while.
Kante will be forever be remembered for revolutionising the holding midfield role after moving to England in 2015.
Very few had heard about the minute and almost mute player when he left Caen to join Leicester City over half a decade ago.
Everybody knows about the 31-year-old now, after he was the heartbeat of back-to-back Premier League winning sides.
He thrust Leicester to their miraculous victory, and was equally important to Chelsea’s trophy lift the following campaign having signed for £30m.
His energy and ability to cover ground was remarkable.
No opponent was ever safe in possession, as they knew a tackle or interception could be inbound at any time.
Willy Caballero wowed by N’Golo Kante
Sadly, in the past few years, Kante’s superhuman powers have faded.
Injuries have been the kryptonite to the Frenchman’s formidable strength, limiting him to just two club appearances all term.
Yet, regardless of his issues recently, Caballero still spoke in the highest regard of his ex-teammate.
“I chose N’Golo because I think he is the best in that position. Such a humble guy and such a good professional player,” said the Southampton goalkeeper when asked to select his dream XI of old colleagues.
Whilst it’s charming to hear Caballero compliment Kante, the tag of best defensive midfielder may have moved on now.
Declan Rice and Rodri are right up there from the Premier League, whilst Marcelo Brozovic and Aurelien Tchouameni can stake a claim on the European scene.
But none have ever done it quite like N’Golo.