Lionel Messi predicts English youngster will become "one of the best"

Lionel Messi reckons Chelsea's Mason Mount has what it takes to become "one of the best" players in the world.

Mount has made 43 appearances for the Blues and has been capped by England four times in his breakthrough Premier League campaign.

His six goals have also played a part in Chelsea climbing to as high as fourth in the table - three points clear of nearest rivals Manchester United.

Barcelona legend Messi rarely speaks out on other players, but felt compelled to heap praise on the 21-year-old.

Messi said of Mount: "Having watched him play he has the potential to be one of the best."

The Argentine isn't the only one to praise Mount in recent months, with his boss Frank Lampard hailing the start he made at Chelsea.

"He's done a lot," said Lampard in pre-season. "Coming back here, obviously I worked with him last year, and I'm really happy with how he's trained and his status within the group.

"The players recognise quality instantly, but they also recognise work rate and character. Mason's got all of those and he's given me a problem.

"Ross Barkley's also had a good pre-season and Ruben Loftus-Cheek will be back later on. It's good because they're all adaptable and can play in a variety of positions amongst themselves.

"I couldn't ask for more from what Mason's done."

Meanwhile, Sky Sports pundit Graeme Souness said of Mount: "I thought he was fabulous [against Tottenham]. That day Chelsea were almost faultless. The only criticism you have is they didn't score enough goals.

"They played with real purpose in midfield and the ball was always played forward. I think he [Frank Lampard] has made his mind up that he plays Jorginho or Kovacic.

"I think if you are an England manager you have got to be looking at him very closely. I know he is young. Starting with him, building your midfield around him.

"He silky, sees a great picture, has brilliant technique, looks to be a great type and works his socks off.

"A real team player with having all that ability it is what you want.

"He is a star in the making and I would think looking at him and his personality and the way he reacts to things on the field he is not someone who will allow the big hit to arrive on his shoulders. I'm a big fan of his."

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