Former Chelsea and Real Madrid star Claude Makelele says that N'Golo Kante is the best defensive midfielder in the world, but is unsure as to whether the Chelsea man is as good as he was in his playing days.
The 43-year-old was widely regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders when he was in his prime with the likes of Real Madrid and Chelsea, and highlighted Chelsea's N'Golo Kante as one of the best active players in his position.
When asked who was the best player in the 'Makelele role', Makelele said: "This position is so difficult to play.
"You need leadership. It's about working with your [midfield] partner, understanding each other.
"I do like N'Golo Kanté, but whether he'll be better than me at it I don't know. He needs time to learn the position, to learn more about the game.
"He's a young player I like, but I hope he doesn't get to be better than I was!"
Can Kante become better than Makelele?