'Havertz has the skills and technique of Zidane'

Chelsea star Kai Havertz’s superb play has led Lothar Matthaus to compare the young German to Real Madrid and France legend Zinedine Zidane.

Lothar Matthaus has compared Kai Havertz to Zinedine Zidane and highlighted what the Chelsea attacker lacks to reach the very top of football.

After an impressive end to his debut season at Chelsea, Havertz has continued his fine form in Euro 2020. He has started both of Germany’s games and scored in Saturday’s 4-2 win over Group F rivals Portugal in Munich.

The 22-year-old’s performances have earned widespread praise, with Matthaus even comparing him to 1998 Ballon d’Or winner Zidane.

“I compare him to Zinedine Zidane in terms of skills, technique and overview, and anticipating a situation,” the German World Cup winner told Kicker.

“Zidane didn’t seem quick, but it was when he hit the ball. Havertz can do that too.”

To reach the very top, however, Havertz needs to work to work more on his scoring ability and short movements.

Matthaus added: “He could score more goals and improve himself in the short movements with special training. He has a good eye, good ball control, good positional play, fine technique. In addition, Havertz plays intelligently and uses his body well.

“Havertz is on the way, but nuances will decide whether he will make it to the top, whether he will be an excellent player or just a very good one.”

The former Bayer Leverkusen ace hopes to start again in Germany’s Group F finale against Hungary on Wednesday.