Rafael Benitez: 'Juan Mata is one of the world's best'

Chelsea interim manager Rafael Benitez has said that Juan Mata is developing into one of the world's best players.

Mata is Chelsea's joint top scorer this season with 19 goals and his performances in the Premier League earned him a place in the PFA Team of the Year, which was announced last month.

Benitez feels that his Spanish compatriot's current level means that he is operating as one of the finest attacking talents on the planet.

"He is a great player and not just in terms of what he gives on the pitch," Benitez told Sky Sports News.

"His gives his all in training sessions, he is very committed and has a lot of game intelligence. He is a very good player, a very good professional and he is currently playing as one of the best players in the world."

The Blues play Benfica in the Europa League final tonight.