Former Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp says Nemanja Matic can prove himself better than former Chelsea star Claude Makelele.

He was excellent again for the Blues as they eased to a 2-0 Boxing Day win over West Ham United.

"For John Terry and (Gary) Cahill when they have Matic in front of them, it must be a dream because he is the perfect shield," Redknapp told Sky Sports. "He just sits in front, always protecting them.

"I remember playing against Makelele and thinking he is the best defensive midfielder I have ever seen, but if Matic keeps it up in the form he is in, then he could surpass him.

"This guy has a cultured left foot, always has his head up and plays like he has time on the ball. He is a much better player than people give him credit for, he's not just a shield, it's what he does when he has the ball. He doesn't mess around on the ball or showboat, he just does his thing simply."