Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has paid tribute to Kepa Arrizabalaga.

The goalkeeper was dropped for Edouard Mendy for the triumphant Club World Cup final against Palmeiras.

Tuchel said, "Kepa is so good in training and in the games, meanwhile he could be the number one.

"He is not because we have Mendy and he is our number one. There is no need to change.

"But it's full credit to Kepa, he is a outstanding character, an outstanding team player. There's not many players who can cope with the situation like he did. He come out stronger out of this situation which is nice to see.

"I can only say thank you on how much he gives to the team, he is a team player. It was a hard decision [for the Club World Cup final] but still we would've done the same thing if it was the other way around.

"We take it as normal but it's normal how he behaves in pushing the team. He deserves the very best."