Former Manchester City fullback Bacary Sagna says Raheem Sterling is already Chelsea's most important player.

Sagna has lauded the winger's impact at Stamford Bridge even though he is adapting to a new team.

But with four goals in his eight appearances so far, Sterling is making the most of the “opportunity" the ex-defender says he was not getting before the £47.5million transfer.

“I think he has had a good start to his Chelsea career," Sagna told website Lord Ping. “It couldn't have been easy for him with all the changes, but he has been Chelsea's best player so far in my opinion.

“He is back in London, where he grew up. It must be nice for him to be back in his home city with his friends and family, performing well for his club.

“We all know that Chelsea haven't been at their best this season, but during this period, I thought that he has shown his experience and has looked like a leader in the team. He has scored goals.

“He will be happy with the move because now he can play week in, week out. Players want to play every week to improve and find form - he is one of them. He needs momentum. At City he wasn't given this opportunity."