Chelsea new-boy Hakim Ziyech has provided a fascinating insight into what goes through his mind when he plays one of his signature killer balls.
The former Ajax man was the star of the show at Stamford Bridge on Saturday night, twice playing the decisive pass for the Blue to score.
First, he assisted Ben Chilwell but it was his cross for Thiago Silva that had fans gushing as he put the ball on a place to the Brazilian to bag his maiden Chelsea goal.
But the pick of the bunch saw him earn a pre-assist as he picked out Mateo Kovacic in space from a wide area who was then able to hook the ball back for Tammy Abraham to score.
"I always look at them before I play the ball," Ziyech explained to Chelsea's website as he gave fans a glimpse inside his mind the moment he played that pass.
"Usually, eye contact is enough and you could see it worked well two times.
"You know they like it when we play the ball to feel so I saw [Mateo] Kovacic running into space and sometimes you have to give those balls because they don’t know what to do with them.
"It was the first time I tried it and we scored straight away," he said.
"I’m not afraid to give a pass. I feel comfortable here in the squad with all my team-mates."
Ziyech's start to life as Chelsea was delayed due to injury, but since making his debut in a 3-3 draw with Southampton at Stamford Bridge, his form had been sublime.
The 27-year-old has three assists and one goal in four Premier League appearances, and he produced a high six key passes in the triumph over the Blades.
Frank Lampard admitted the Moroccan is an infectious character around the club and his character and ability on the ball has lifted the overall standard and contributed to the current feelgood atmosphere.
"We played against [Hakim Ziyech] in the Champions League last year. He's a top class player," Lampard told Sky Sports.
"He impresses you even more when you work with him. The Dutch league finished a long time ago, then he had an injury so to hit the ground running like he has has been remarkable.
"He will be a big player for us. I need players who can come in and lift the level. That's hard. The midfield were great with their driving runs."
