Cesar Azpilicueta has been hailed as Chelsea’s hardest-working player by teammate Gary Cahill.
Chelsea have surged to the top of the Premier League in recent months, with a stunning run of form built by an often-impenetrable defence.
Indeed, Antonio Conte has overseen 14 wins in their last 15 league fixtures, with his successful 3-4-3 system keeping 11 clean sheets.
The three-man back-line has featured Azpilicueta and Cahill, alongside David Luiz, with the former moving inside from a full-back position.
Having displayed an excellent 88% pass accuracy – up 7% on last season – the Spain international has shone with both his distribution and defensive solidity, making no errors in the Premier League this term.
Azpilicueta’s work-rate has seemingly impressed his teammates, too, with Cahill highlighting the mentality of the 27-year-old in training sessions.
The England centre-back told Chelsea’s official website, when asked who was the Blues’ best trainer: “Recently, I’d say Cesar Azpilicueta because he just works hard all the time.
“He has that work ethic everybody should have.
“But over the years there have been loads here and that’s why we’ve had success, because we’ve had characters who are willing to work and improve.”
The defensive duo are currently preparing for a run of two home games, as Chelsea host Hull City in the Premier League and Brentford in the FA Cup.
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