Chelsea defender David Luiz has backed teammate Eden Hazard to become the "Leonardo da Vinci of football" one day.

The Belgium international has earned rave reviews for his performances this season, helping Jose Mourinho's men to the summit of the Premier League table with 12 goals - including a hat-trick in the 3-0 win over Newcastle United earlier in the month.

Luiz, who was speaking at an event for football, photography and art, believes that the youngster can continue to lead the Blues' renaissance under Mourinho in the coming years.

He told Sky Sports News: "He can be Leonardo da Vinci in football - he can one day be the best footballer in the world."

The Londoners, who were knocked out of the FA Cup to Manchester City on Saturday, resume league commitments by hosting Everton at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.