Chelsea legend Michael Ballack has heaped praise on midfielder Cesc Fabregas following the West London club's 2-1 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

The Spanish midfielder endured a tough start to the season, but he has rediscovered his form following the arrival of manager Guus Hiddink, and his performances have not been lost on former Blues star Ballack.

"I must say with Fabregas I've seen a few games from him and I'm always impressed by him all season," Ballack told BT Sport after the Round of 16 first leg tie in Paris.

"He is a serious player.

"He knows what he is doing on the pitch and even if he's not very active on television like today, he is always making 80-90 per cent the right decisions in terms of passing, in terms of running and closing space."