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Football London
Football London
Sport
George Smith

The incredible stats that show how important Cesar Azpilicueta is to Frank Lampard and Chelsea

When the time eventually comes for Cesar Azpilicueta to say his goodbyes at Stamford Bridge, he will be able to reflect on his Chelsea career with a smile.

After joining the club from French giants Marseille in August 2012, the Spain international, who was named as club captain at the start of this season, quickly cemented himself as part of the furniture in West London.

In his first season at Stamford Bridge he helped the club win their second consecutive European trophy, as they defeated Benfica in the 2013 Europa League Final.

That was just the start.

Alan Smith full Chelsea Q&A

The 30-year-old has since helped the club add a further six major honours to their trophy cabinet, including two Premier League titles and another Europa League success.

But when you closely look at the figures behind Azpilicueta's time at Chelsea, it becomes more and more impressive the deeper you go.

In total, the defender, who has can operate at either right-back or centre-back, has played 374 times for the Blues, during which time he has netted 13 goals and racked up an impressive 45 assists.

But whilst the defender, who has scored four goals this season, has always proven to be a reliable outlet in the Blues defence over the past eight seasons, he also been incredibly reliable when it has come to being available for selection.

Over the past eight seasons, the defender has only not been available for selection due to injury troubles on just six occasions. Six. That is truly remarkable.

That works out an availability percentage of 98%, which is a tremendous effort for a player of any age and position.

When the time does eventually arrive for Azpilicueta to leave Chelsea, though that won't be anytime before the summer of 2022 when his contract draws to a close, he will no doubt be in line for plenty of recognition from everyone associated with the football club.

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