David Luiz has been a gigantic presence in unbeaten Chelsea’s impressive start to the season under new boss Maurizio Sarri.
And the Italian coach can’t stop praising the ever-present Brazilian defender ahead of Saturday's Premier League trip to Tottenham.
Luiz was tipped to leave Stamford Bridge at the start of the season after making only 10 appearances last term.
But the 31-year-old has been solid in a defence that has conceded just eight goals in 12 games.
And more importantly, Luiz’s ability to play out at the back and help the Blues forwards launch their devastating attacks has impressed Sarri.
With his stars returning from international duty, Sarri says: “There isn’t a lot of time between the training sessions [before the match against Spurs] and I think it doesn’t help the coach nor the players.
“It’s not even only about the physical aspect but also about the mental one.
HIGH PRAISE: Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri impressed bu Luiz. Photo: TATYANA ZENKOVICH/EPA
“David Luiz [has] surprised me by his availability and cleverness.
“He has the talent to understand the concepts introduced by the coach and apply them on the field.”
With the Blues and Spurs only separated by a single point, the former Napoli boss is expecting a tight game between his third-placed team and their fourth-placed London rivals.
He adds: “Even when a game is close I can enjoy it. I can enjoy if the match is a good match.
“For example, we did not win against Liverpool but I enjoyed the match.”
Meanwhile, Spurs coach Mauricio Pochettino’s Argentine duo of midfielder Erik Lamela and defender Juan Foyth are doubts for the derby after being heavily involved on international duty this week.
Fortunately for Mauricio Pochettino, Heung-min Son, Lucas Moura, Dele Alli and Christian Eriksen will all be fresh and ready to select from.