Fulham's Tom Cairney has shined a light on a player he believes deserves more recognition than he receives.
Speaking on BBC Sport's 'The Players Channel,' the 33-year-old lauds Willian as the standout talent he's had the privilege of playing alongside. Despite reaching the age of 35, the Brazilian has emerged as a cornerstone for the Cottagers this season, defying age barriers with his impactful performances.
His departure from Chelsea in 2020 raised eyebrows, yet his move to Fulham has sparked a resurgence, establishing him as a key figure in their attacking arsenal.
Cairney's endorsement of his current teammate's prowess highlights the Brazilian's enduring influence on the pitch. However, the Scotland international hints at a possible reason for the former Stamford Bridge star's underappreciation, suggesting he may have been overshadowed by another Chelsea legend, possibly Eden Hazard.
"He is the best player I have ever played with by a mile. His touch, his brain, the way he moves the ball, his decision making. I just can’t imagine what he was like to play with seven or eight years ago at Chelsea.
“And in my opinion he doesn’t get the recognition he deserves because Hazard was that good in the same team that people don’t talk about him in the way they should.
“Because Hazard was ridiculous but for four or five years Willian was one of the best players in the Premier League and he’s 35 now and still stops dead and shifts it and you can’t get near it, and he’s 35.”
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