Chelsea boss Graham Potter delighted for Morocco star Hakim Ziyech after World Cup heroics

Chelsea boss Graham Potter has given his assessment of Hakim Ziyech's performances at the World Cup in Qatar.

Ziyech was one of the shining lights of a record-breaking Moroccan side who became the first African country in history to make it to the semifinals of the global showpiece.

The Chelsea star fell out with the Moroccan Football Federation but made a sensational comeback to the national team in a sparkling World Cup campaign and Potter has since sung the praises of the 29-year-old, who hasn't really been able to cement himself in the Blues starting lineup since his move from Ajax Amsterdam two years ago.

"He's been a little bit away from the first XI. But he's been involved in the games," said Potter.

"He came on in the first game as a sub. We know his qualities, we like him as a player. He plays in between the lines, has fantastic qualities which we saw at the World Cup.

"I kept in touch with him throughout the FIFA World Cup.

"We can speak a lot but the chances there are always good for players who aren't in the starting XI. You have to be patient.

Potter continued: "I'm delighted for him, I kept in touch with him over the World Cup. I'm delighted for him that he got the game time and helped his team.

"He's a good guy and he's got quality."

Chelsea resume league action with a clash at home against Bournemouth on Tuesday night.