Wise: Duo can be all-time Chelsea greats

Chelsea legend Dennis Wise believes the combination of Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa can go on to be as good as anything the club has ever seen.

Speaking after the 2-0 victory over Arsenal which took the Blues five points clear at the top of the Premier League, Wise said the understanding between the pair is developing by the week and will be at the heart of the team’s title challenge.

“You look at that pass from Fabregas to Costa [for the second goal] and it looks like they have been playing for years,” said Wise, who won the FA Cup twice as well as the League Cup during an 11-year career at Chelsea, where he remains a hugely popular figure.

“I think they can be as good as anything Chelsea have ever had – it’s early to say that but what is happening between them is just incredible. The numbers speak for themselves.

Former Arsenal star Fabregas has been outstanding since joining Chelsea
Former Arsenal star Fabregas has been outstanding since joining Chelsea

“It will be that combination that will make the difference in the title race. It was the difference against Arsenal and it will be throughout the season I am sure.”

Summer signing Costa has scored nine goals in his first seven Premier League games – despite nursing an ongoing hamstring problem.

“It’s going to be interesting to see how Costa is when fully fit as he is frightening now,” said Wise, who scored 75 goals in 447 games for the Blues.