Ashley Cole says 27-year-old is a big player for Chelsea

Former Chelsea star Ashley Cole believes Hakim Ziyech is a big player for the club, having made an instant impact since his return from a knee injury.

The Morocco international was the club's first signing of the summer, but his debut was delayed after he picked up a knee injury in pre-season.

Since his comeback, Ziyech has put up a number of top-class performances and he recently bagged a brace of assists against Sheffield United.

Speaking to the club's official website, Cole said that the 27-year-old is finally finding his feet with the Blues after a run of games.

"He has come back now and he looks fit, he looks like he is enjoying the way Frank plays, and enjoying playing with his team-mates here," He told.

"He is using that wand of a left foot to perfection at times and he pulled the strings [against Sheffield United]. So I think he is a big player for Chelsea."

Ziyech has contributed two goals and three assists from his first seven appearances for Chelsea. Only four of those have come from the starting lineup.

He produced a superb display against the Blades in a 4-1 win over the weekend and will be hoping to continue the good form after the international break.