Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand has named Chelsea defender, Antonio Rudiger as the best centre-back in the Premier League since the arrival of Thomas Tuchel at Stamford Bridge last January.
Ferdinand stated this ahead of Chelsea’s Carabao Cup clash with Aston Villa on Wednesday.
According to him, both Rudiger and Manchester City’s centre-back, Ruben Dias have been the standout defenders in the Premier League during the last year, but the Germany international’s effect on his teammates means he edges it as the best in the English top-flight league.
“Since Tuchel has come, I think he’s [Rudiger] arguably been the best centre-back,” Ferdinand was quoted by Metro UK as saying.
“I think him and Dias would have been close, but the effect he has had on his team has been immense.
“Under Frank [Lampard], it was evident he was not Frank’s cup of tea. He didn’t really like him. There were rumours they were trying to put him in the market to be sold.
“In Germany, he’s always been highly thought of. But when the manager doesn’t rate you and you can feel that, I don’t care who you are, your confidence takes a beating and it is hard to perform at that level.”
Rudiger currently has less than a year left on his current contract with Chelsea.
The 28-year-old is currently in negotiations with Chelsea’s board over a new deal, with Tuchel eager to keep him at the club.
