Pat Nevin has praised the performance of Chelsea during their recent 4-4 draw with Manchester City, although he claims that they will still not be challenging for the top four this season.

Chelsea came from behind three times to earn a point against the reigning Premier League champions, thanks to Thiago Silva, Raheem Sterling, Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer, who scored in both halves to cancel out efforts from Erling Haaland, Manuel Akanji and Rodri.

The performance has been hailed by many pundits, who believe that the Blues may finally be finding their mojo, but while Nevin agrees with that belief, the former Chelsea winger doesn’t see Mauricio Pochettino’s side getting top four this season.

He told BBC Sports: “Chelsea vs Manchester City was an instant classic. The unexpected nature of Chelsea’s maturity, resilience and, at times, brilliance added as much as the goals and the constant breathless pace.

“Chelsea have been the Premier League’s princes of possession this season. Man City are the kings but there was still something missing from Mauricio Pochettino’s side. On Sunday they found it, a passion and a cutting edge.

“Following the Tottenham win, last week may well be looked back on as the turning point. At this rate of improvement, Chelsea could be serious challengers next season, even though it is unlikely to get them top four this time round.

“There were so many fine performances on both sides, but two weeks ago I wrote on these pages that Cole Palmer is the closest thing I have seen to Kevin de Bruyne, having thought that since I first saw him play at Man City.”