Antonio Conte has claimed that Andreas Christensen's rise into a first-team regular for Chelsea has been "the best surprise" of the season.

The 21-year-old was tipped to challenge for a starting spot this term after returning from a two-year spell on loan with Borussia Monchengladbach, where he regularly impressed.

Christensen has been used 20 times by Conte this season and has now usurped David Luiz at the back, and the Italian is hopeful that the young defender could potentially emulate club legend John Terry over time.

"This is a big comparison - John Terry wrote the history of this club and won a lot," he told reporters. "I wish Christensen to have the same career as John. I think he has the right characteristics to play for this club for many years, to become an important player for this team, for this club.

"Christensen is maybe the best surprise from the start of this season, despite his young age. He's been the best surprise for me, for the club, for his teammates, for the fans.

"Every time I decided to give him the opportunity to play, he played with an amazing performance. These performances convinced me that Christensen has to play with regularity."

Terry bid farewell to Chelsea at the end of last season following a 22-year spell with the club.