Branislav Ivanovic has hailed the impact that goalkeeper Petr Cech has on the Chelsea defence.

Having joined the Blues from Rennes in the summer of 2004, Cech has gone on to become regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in world football.

Discussing that point of view, Serbian defender Ivanovic feels that it is one that the Czech Republic international deserves.

"Petr for me last year was the best goalkeeper in Europe, and he showed that especially with the way we won the Champions League," he told the club's official website. "But it is not just that year, his career is brilliant and he gives his best years and his best moments to Chelsea.

"To have him back behind you is a really good thing because he is a guy who makes you trust him.

"We are defending well as a team at the moment and a lot of that is down to Petr Cech because he is always talking to you and he is someone who always supports you."

Cech will make his 400th appearance for the club should he be selected against Everton today.