However, since joining from Benfica in early 2023, Enzo hasn’t always had it easy. He arrived for a significant transfer fee and played through much of his first full season with a hernia that needed operating on.

He acknowledges the hurdles he, and indeed the team as a whole, have had to overcome, but says he is now happy with how things are going at the Bridge.

‘When I arrived it was very difficult, the first year and a half here: change of coaches, the club wasn't doing well, personal injuries,’ said Enzo.

‘I was not satisfied with what I had been showing, then I got injured, many adverse things happened.

‘I tried to move forward and today I feel very good, as does the team. We hope to continue on this path.’

The World Cup winner has been instrumental in Enzo Maresca’s midfield since being reinstated in our starting XI following the November international break.

He has scored three goals and provided four assists in our past eight Premier League fixtures, continually getting into dangerous positions in the final third, and all the while skippering the Blues.

‘I learned the position in which I had to play, over time I got the idea of what the coach wanted,’ Enzo said.

‘He [Maresca] explained to me what he wanted and I was getting the concept, reading the games. There is still a long way to go.

‘On a personal level I have been feeling very good. The team has shown a very strong character, always working with humility, and showing that great things can be achieved.’