Graham Potter has admitted he doesn't understand why people criticise Chelsea and England star Mason Mount.
Since breaking into the Blues' first-team in 2019, Mount has been a regular for his club and country, helping Chelsea to the Champions League trophy and England to the Euros final last year.
After a slow start to this season, the attacking midfield has rediscovered his best form since Potter's arrival at Stamford Bridge, scoring twice and making five assists in the new manager's first six games.
He is sure to be included in the Three Lions' squad for the 2022 World Cup next month, and is likely to start for Gareth Southgate's team.
Despite his obvious quality, many fans have often called for Southgate to drop Mount in favour of another one of England's star attackers such as Arsenal's Bukayo Saka or Manchester City duo Phil Foden and Jack Grealish.
Potter cannot comprehend this line of thinking however and was keen to share his delight at the 23-year-old's attitude both on and off the pitch.
'It's a joy - he's a fantastic person,' Potter said in his pre-match press conference ahead of Chelsea's clash at Brentford on Wednesday night.
'He loves to play football and loves the club. Great attitude, he understands spaces, he can execute assists and score goals. He's top.
'It's surprising that I get questions on mixed opinion about Mason. I find that strange, especially from the outside and then when you work with him you see he's got everything you need to be a top, top player.'
Potter also took time to praise Kepa Arrizabalaga, another player who has been in fine form since Potter's appointment at the Bridge.
The goalkeeper put in a fantastic display in the 2-0 win at Aston Villa last Sunday, with his manager adding: 'Kepa's form is really pleasing for everybody, especially for him.
'I've been really impressed with his character and personality, he's very professional, understands the game really well, takes responsibility.
'So it's nice when those type of people get the rewards, which is a reward for their hard work and effort.'
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