Chelsea forward Kai Havertz claims that Mateo Kovacic, Joao Felix and Hakim Ziyech are probably the most technically gifted players in Chelsea’s first team.

When asked about his most skilful teammates, Havertz initially plumped for Kovacic before changing his mind as the Croatian doesn’t usually show off his ability in matches:

“The best technically Mateo Kovacic, but I suppose he doesn’t use many skills in-game. That is Joao Felix, I’d say. Hakim Ziyech is the one who always tries to nutmeg.”

The fact that Havertz mentions Felix and Ziyech isn’t that surprising, but it is interesting that he does rate Kovacic so highly.

Fans have witnessed the 29-year-old using his superb ball control to get away from opponents but you wouldn’t really say that he uses much skill or guile. From what Havertz says, though, that part of his game is reserved for the training pitch.

With Kovacic closing in on the final twelve months of his contract, he could soon be leaving Stamford Bridge. The likes of Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool have been mentioned as potential suitors but Chelsea would probably prefer that he moves abroad if he doesn’t sign an extension.