Try as they might, Chelsea have failed to replace the man who was so good, he had a role named after him. Never has there been a better shield to protect the back four, and for such an understated player Maka was more effective than anyone before or since. Even Real Madrid went a lengthy spell without a trophy after the little Frenchman left them, and any side who has experienced the class possessed by Makelele will tell you how much they miss him.
