Rio Ferdinand has crowned Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger as the best centre-back in the Premier League
The German player has been one of the Blues' standout players in recent times, helping them win their second Champions League last campaign
But he could leave Stamford Bridge just when he is dishing out his best performances with his contract set to expire next year

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has showered encomiums on Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger - naming him as the best defender in the Premier League.

The 28-year-old has been superb since the arrival of Thomas Tuchel earlier this year and they both worked together to list the Blues' second Champions League glory.

He has also been part of Chelsea's impressive start to the Premier League season that has them sitting on the summit of the charts with 13 points.

Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea celebrates after scoring his sides second goal during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Swansea City at Stamford Bridge on November 29, 2017 in London, England (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) — Antonio Rudiger has been a mainstay in the Chelsea squad since the arrival of Thomas Tuchel. Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images.
Source: UGC

The Blues have conceded just once thus far in the domestic league, a goal that came during their 1-1 draw against Liverpool.

Despite the west Londoners priding themselves with an array of top defenders, Rudiger has been a mainstay in the team under Tuchel.

Ferdinand claims Rudiger will rival Dias for best defender role

Ferdinand now believes the Chelsea man is easily the best centre-back in the league alongside Man City's Ruben Dias.

The legendary Man United defender described Rudiger as "immense" hailing him for his contribution to his team. Rio was quoted by Metro UK saying:

Since Tuchel has come I think he’s arguably been the best centre-back. I think him and Dias would have been close but the effect he has had on his team has been immense.

Rudiger has played five league games with one goal credited to his name and they are one of the favourites for the title.

Why Kepa took Mendy's place against Tottenham

Legit.ng earlier reported that Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has revealed that he opted for Kepa Arrizabalaga in their game against Tottenham Hotspur after his number one choice Edouard Mendy picked up a knock.

The Blues went ahead to pick maximum points at White Hart Lane courtesy of goals from Thiago Silva, N'golo Kante and Antonio Rudiger as they maintained their unbeaten run so far this season.

Tuchel admitted that they did all they can to get the Senegalese ready for the crunch encounter but he did not pass the fitness test before the meeting on Sunday, September 19, hence the need for Kepa.

Authors

Oluwatomiwa Babalola