Caicedo’s performances have taken a positive turn in recent weeks after he endured a bit of a difficult start to life at Stamford Bridge.

He has quickly formed a stellar partnership alongside fellow expensive addition to the side Enzo Fernandez.

Last night saw the Ecuador international take his club form into international duty, where he was one of the stars in a show in a 0-0 draw.

His comments after the game did see a number of supporters as well as international media disagree with his defence of the side.

Valencia praises Caicedo

Nevertheless, there has been plenty of praise from Valencia for his countryman.

He said: “Caicedo is among the five best midfielders in the world. He did not enjoy a preseason with Chelsea, but his performances are getting better and better. He has been improving in the national team, which makes all Ecuadorians happy.

“We hope he continues to improve. He is a good boy, humble, hardworking. I watched most of his games and his level is growing. “I hope that at the end of the season he will be the best in the Premier League .”

Caicedo will hopefully be fit enough to be back in the Chelsea side that are travelling to Newcastle next weekend when club football returns.

One player who perhaps will not be is Fernandez, with him taking part in a crucial game against Brazil just three days earlier.

He has looked tired in recent weeks, and struggled last night in Argentina’s loss to Uruguay in World Cup qualification.