Ex-Chelsea manager Glenn Hoddle has singled out Mateo Kovacic for praise following his “brilliant” performance versus Red Bull Salzburg last night.

The Croatian international scored the opener in the 2-1 win which secured the Blues’ passage to the last 16 of the Champions League and, speaking after the match yesterday, Hoddle said the entire team performs better when the midfielder is in the starting lineup:

“He (Kovacic) was brilliant tonight. They are a better team when he’s playing and playing at his best. They’ve got to look after him. I think he’s got a slight problem with his knee. His goal there was excellent… He adjusted so quickly and stroked the ball in the top corner with his instep. It was a beautiful finish, one I think he could do more of if he gets into those advanced positions. I think Graham is allowing him to get involved a little bit more in and around the D, hence he’s had an important goal there tonight.”

It was confirmed after the match that Kovacic actually picked up a calf injury, so it remains to be seen whether the 28-year-old will be available for the match against Graham Potter’s old side, Brighton, this weekend.

There is no doubt that the Chelsea manager is a big fan of Kovacic, and for good reason. The Croatian’s ability to cover ground both in and out of possession makes him an outstanding asset.

He is a very unique player in the first-team squad and, as Hoddle points out, they really need to ensure he is on the pitch as much as possible.