Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has scoffed at doubts around captain Cesar Azpilicueta.

The defender's ability has been questioned this week after winning the Club World Cup.

Tuchel said today: "He's always important, he is super important since day one. We had a good connection from the first day.

"He gets better with every game he plays, he leads by example which is always super nice to have.

"Now he has collected so many trophies and an incredible career at one club which is outstanding.

"He embodies everything that Chelsea stands for, being relentless, humble and a warrior at the same time.

"I'm happy to have him."