Gianfranco Zola believes Christian Pulisic has "made such a difference" at Chelsea over the past 12 months.
The USA international produced some incredible form after Project Restart and was starting to show why the Blues paid around £58million for his services.
Pulisic has struggled a bit more this season, but in recent games, the winger has forced his way into Thomas Tuchel's thinking.
The competition for the attacking spots in Chelsea's team has intensified this season following a very busy summer transfer window prior to the campaign beginning.
The likes of Hakim Ziyech, Kai Havertz and Timo Werner were all signed by Frank Lampard, who both play in a similar position to Pulisic.
However, ex-Blues attacker Zola has been talking about the influence Pulisic has had at Stamford Bridge since his arrival in 2019.
The former Italy international also spoke about how he thinks the American is getting towards his best now, after struggling with injury problems at different stages this season.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Zola said: “I think Christian [Pulisic] in the last year was exceptional for the club, he’s made such a difference at the club.
"He has the ability, the pace, to be one of those players that can make a difference between drawing and winning.
"I’m very glad for him. Physically, he looks fit now and he’s a big asset for Chelsea.”
Despite Zola hailing the impact Pulisic has had at Chelsea over the last year, the man himself has described the past 12 months as "tough".
Speaking to the Blues' matchday programme ahead of their goalless draw with Brighton, the 22-year-old admitted: "It definitely wasn't easy for me.
"It's been a tough year for a lot of reasons.
"Obviously, having injuries has been tough because I've been doing everything I can to take care of my body and just try to be right for every game, and it does hurt when I can't be out there to help the team."
