The Croatian international won January’s monthly goal award for his stunning strike at Stamford Bridge, an effort that sparked our dramatic fightback against the Reds at the turn of the calendar year.

With the Blues trailing by two goals shortly before the break, Kovacic acted instinctively when goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher punched Marcos Alonso’s free-kick away from under the crossbar.

Utilising flawless technique, the midfielder drifted back to meet the dropping ball before unleashing a perfect looping volley, which cleared a crowded penalty area before bouncing in off the inside of the right-hand post.

Speaking at the time, Kovacic rated the strike as up there with his best, adding: ‘It was quite difficult because the ball was high in the air and it was a difficult shot.

‘It was also a very important game against Liverpool in the Premier League because we were 2-0 down and this goal gave us the boost to come back. I would put it as the best goal in my career.’

The 28-year-old is up against Danny Ings (Aston Villa), Andros Townsend (Everton), Mohamed Salah (Liverpool), Rodri (Man City), Alexandre Lacazette (Arsenal), Wilfried Zaha (Crystal Palace), Cristiano Ronaldo (Man United), Miguel Almiron (Newcastle) and Son Heung-min (Tottenham).