The reliable Blues defender shone once again last night in Chelsea’s Champions League triumph.

Conte’s men trounced Qarabag 6-0 at Stamford Bridge.

And Azpilicueta made a rare appearance on the scoresheet for the Blues too.

But it is the Spaniard's consistent performances for Chelsea, especially as part of their back three, that Conte admires.

"Last season Azpi was one of the most important players for us," Conte said.

"In this position as a central defender he is one of the best in the world. He is very good with and without the ball.

"He's a fantastic guy, he's always positive, and during the training sessions he works in a fantastic way.

"For a coach to have him is a dream."

Conte gave the 28-year-old a break at the end, substituting him after 75 minutes for Antonio Rudiger.

But Azpilicueta is expected to start when Chelsea welcome Arsenal to the Bridge on Sunday (1.30pm).

After last night’s victory, he tweeted: “A perfect night, return to Champions League, win, clean sheet, great atmosphere at the Bridge, and a goal too.”