Assistant manager Ray Wilkins singled out the in-form Nicolas Anelka for praise after describing Chelsea's 2-0 FA Cup fourth round win at Preston as a 'professional performance'.
Anelka and Daniel Sturridge scored in the 2-0 fourth-round victory at Deepdale as the striker took his tally to five goals in his last four games.
The France international has stepped in to fill the void created by Didier Drogba's absence at the Africa Cup of Nations.
"At the moment, from our perspective, Nicolas is playing some outstanding football and he is a joy to have around the place," said Wilkins."He is working hard in training and he is doing really well.
'"Daniel has a lot of talent and he is working really hard. But for these young men at this club it is hard to break past the likes of Nico or Didier (Drogba), but when he gets his chance he takes it and plays well."
Meanwhile, Wilkins played down an injury concern surrounding Frank Lampard after the England midfielder limped off in the 66th minute to be replaced by Joe Cole.
"Frank felt a little bit of tightness in his calf, so we got him off early as a precaution," he explained. "We will know more about that tomorrow."
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