Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo feels John Obi Mikel deserves greater appreciation from fans.

Di Matteo also believes Mikel is one of the club's troupers.

He said: "I don't know why Mikel is underrated by the media or the fans.

"He is highly rated by us and he plays a position where you're a bit of an unsung hero.

"He does the dirty work which is not recognised because the goalscorers get the recognition. But he is very ­important for our team and we are very happy to have him here."