Frank Lampard has dubbed Antonio Conte the “man of the season” after the Italian guided Chelsea to the Premier League title in his first campaign in charge at Stamford Bridge.
Midfielder N’Golo Kante was player of the year and the likes of Eden Hazard enjoyed brilliant seasons, but Blues legend Lampard believes boss Conte is the biggest single reason for Chelsea’s triumph.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Lampard said: “N’Golo Kante is the player of the season and Eden Hazard was close, but Conte is the man of the season.
“He’s driven them. You can see the passion he has. From where they were last year – they came 10th in the Premier League – to make them champions and show the performances they have, he is their man of the season.”
Lampard, Chelsea’s all-time record goalscorer, also reserved special praise for Cesar Azpilicueta, who has been consistently solid in defence.
The Spaniard showed typical determination to chase a loose ball after Gary Cahill’s wayward shot and set up Michy Batshuayi for the winner at West Brom which sealed the title.
“A big shout out to Azpilicueta – one of the unsung heroes of the team,” said Lampard.