Joe Cole names Chelsea's 'most important player' as Norwich win boosts title hopes

 

The Blues took the lead thanks to Mason Mount, who scored his first goal of the season with a thunderbolt shot. After being sent through on goal, Callum Hudson-Odoi extended their lead, tapping in from close range.

The Blues took the lead thanks to Mason Mount, who scored his first goal of the season with a thunderbolt shot. After being sent through on goal, Callum Hudson-Odoi extended their lead, tapping in from close range.

“I would say he’s Chelsea’s most important player. When he goes away on international duty and Kepa plays, I think Kepa’s a good keeper but if that quality dips then I think Chelsea could struggle.

Mendy’s standing on the shoulders of giants right now. He’s made a big impact, as much as any other big signing in recent years. I always say get your goalkeeper right They have and they won the Champions League.”

Another BT Sport pundit, Chris Sutton, was also full of praise for the Senegal international.

“Chelsea have gone up a level since Mendy's come in, the shot-stopping is excellent,” he said.

“When I think of Kepa I think of a highly strung goalkeeper, with Mendy he's always in control.

“Some of these saves are incredible. He's agile, he's good with the ball at his feet.