Ademola Lookman has singled out Reece James as the most difficult defender he has faced, placing Virgil van Dijk second on his list.
The Atlético Madrid winger made the admission during an interview with ESPN while reflecting on battles with elite defenders across Europe.
Lookman said meetings with the Chelsea FC captain have proved especially demanding. The Nigerian international has faced James several times, particularly during earlier links with the London club, but is still searching for his first goal or assist against Chelsea.
James, who has endured injury setbacks this season, has recently resumed full training and could feature in Chelsea’s upcoming fixture against Nottingham Forest.
The 28-year-old’s rise since his €35m January move from Atalanta has been swift. He scored on debut in a 5-0 Copa del Rey win over Real Betis and has since recorded seven goals and four assists in 19 appearances in all competitions.
Highlights include standout displays against FC Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League and against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.
In the process, Lookman became the first Nigerian to score for Atlético Madrid, underlining a strong start in Spain.
He later suffered an adductor injury in the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad but has since returned to action, featuring in a recent draw with Arsenal FC.
