In a recent interview with BBC’s Match of the Day (transcripted by The Metro), former Everton player Tim Cahill revealed that he was left impressed by Chelsea winger Hakim Ziyech’s impact in the Premier League thus far. Cahill also tipped the ex-Ajax playmaker to do ‘amazing things’ for the West London outfit this season as he said, ‘It was the Hakim Ziyech show.
‘He was incredible. ‘It’s what he see and the chances he creates for other players. He’s so cultured and there are so many chances that come from his left foot.
‘You can understand why he’s world class and why Chelsea have signed him.
‘He can score goals and create. He can see a pass. He is always playing forward so the players know he can play them in.
‘I am really impressed with him and you will see amazing things from him this season.’
Ziyech’s Rapid Rise To Prominence In Recent Seasons
Cahill’s comments follow Ziyech’s incredible performance in the 4-1 win over Sheffield United last weekend when he bagged a couple of assists on his way to picking the man of the match award. He was outstanding on Saturday and showed just why Frank Lampard decided to bring him to Stamford Bridge earlier this year.
The 27-year-old has netted two goals and provided three assists in seven matches for the Blues this season across various competitions. The Morrocan international came to Chelsea after establishing himself as a top performer for Erik ten Hag’s Ajax side last season. Ziyech registered eight goals and 21 assists in 35 matches for the Amsterdam giants in the previous campaign and did well to average 4.2 shots, 3.7 key passes and 2.6 dribbles per game in the Dutch Eredivisie (stats via whoscored).
What Does The Morrocan Wide Player Bring To The Table?
Ziyech is a quick and agile winger who can complete some penetrative dribbles using his excellent close control and low centre of gravity effectively out on the wide areas. The Moroccan’s playing style is quite easy on the eyes but what makes him such an exceptional talent is his ability to create chances for his teammates around him.
The former Eredivisie star has picked up 24 assists since the start of last season which highlights his growing influence as a playmaker. Plus, he can also contribute by scoring the odd goal every now and then.
Can Lampard Get The Best Out Of Ziyech This Season?
The Dronten-born player has missed a handful of matches for Chelsea because of a knee injury. However, Ziyech has set the Premier League alight since making his comeback to competitive action. Lampard deserves a lot of praise for getting the best out of him versus the Blades last Saturday.
If the early signs from Ziyech are anything to go by, then he is set to experience another majestic campaign but this time, in one of the most popular leagues in the world. As long as the 32-time Morrocan international can steer clear of injuries, Lampard can help him grow into a more accomplished wide player at Stamford Bridge in the years to come. Surrounded with world-class talent around him, Ziyech’s numbers should only go up as he is already a class act on the right side of the Blues’ attack.
