These stories are samples pulled from external media sources. They do not represent the views or position of Chelsea Football Club.

Kova backed to go to the top

Croatia star midfielder Luka Modric believes Mateo Kovacic can take over the mantle for their nation once the Real Madird man retires.

Modric is close to 150 appearances in Croatia colours and it is believed he will still be playing for his country at the World Cup this November.

Modric pointed at Kovacic when asked who is next in line to lead the nation.

'I think Mateo Kovacic could be my heir, at least he is the player with the most talent,' he told Marca, cited by the Mail.

'He has played at important clubs such as Inter and Real Madrid. He is at Chelsea now and is doing really well,’ Modric added.

'He is one of the possible successors. Surely he can lead Croatia in the future.'

Pep's Chelsea claim

Man City boss Pep Guardiola has said he disagrees with claims that his side are the best team in the world and instead believes that title belongs to Chelsea.

The Blues defeated City in the Champions League final to deny the Manchester club of their first ever European title last May.

Guardiola believes this is a key indicator in suggesting who is the ‘best team in the world’ as covered by Sky Sports.

The Spaniard was asked if he thinks his side are indeed the best team worldwide, in which he quickly replied ‘No.'

‘We are not the best team in the world. The best team in the world are Chelsea because they won the Champions League,’ said Pep. ‘The best is also River Plate, who won in South America. I think so.

‘Opinions who are the best are the best, the important thing is tomorrow we win the game and in three days we win the game.’

Double delight in FA Cup team

Two Blues have been named in the Emirates FA Cup Team of the Fourth Round.

Kepa Arrizabalaga is first on the team sheet after his penalty heroics in extra-time against Plymouth ensured our passage to the next round.

Kepa faced five shots on target from the League One side over the course of 120 minutes, with one being that fantastic penalty save to deny Ryan Hardie.

Chelsea skipper Cesar Azpilicueta has also been named in the side.

He scored his first goal of the season with a cheeky back-heeled finish past the Argyle goalkeeper.

Azpi has been a constant performer in the side over the winter period, especially given the injury to alternative right wing-back option Reece James.