Paris Saint-Germain star Marco Verratti has praised the Chelsea duo of Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa ahead of the Champions League encounter between the two clubs this week.

The 23-year-old midfielder will face off against the pair in the return leg of the last-16 Champions League tie on Wednesday and has revealed that both of the Blues stars are players he respects greatly.

"I watch a lot of football," the Italy international told The Guardian.

"If I was to pick a player that I identify with in this Chelsea team it would be Cesc Fabregas. He makes you see what the game is about, he breathes football and you can tell by his way of playing how much he loves it.

"He was already a great player when I just got started, so I've watched him a lot. He's an example who I've tried to learn from."

On Costa, he added: "I prefer entertaining football, but having a personality like Costa in your team is always good.

"He uses warfare to win the games, but I know him, he's a good guy who transforms when he comes on the pitch."