Saul Niguez continued to play after suffering a horrific kidney injury

SAUL NIGUEZ is the man who used to virtually give his life for Atletico Madrid after every game.

So, for someone who went from being one of Europe’s most desired to being labeled the worst acquisition of the summer, winning over the cynics at Stamford Bridge will be a piece of cake.

Saul, who arrived at Chelsea in a blaze of glory, has only started two Premier League games, both of which he was brought off at half-time.

Those who believe the August arrival from Atletico Madrid lacks the mental mettle to handle the English game are in for a rude awakening.

For this is a player who is willing to go to any length to stay on the field, including telling a doctor to remove his kidney six years ago!

It’s why those closest to him are convinced he’ll one day become a Chelsea hero, and mock anyone who believes he’ll give up.

Jonathan, Saul’s older brother and a former player now playing in Spain’s third tier, insisted: “Saul’s predicament at Chelsea is a minor cough compared to the terrible kidney problem he had.”

“He experienced a horrific collision in a Champions League game against Bayer Leverkusen in 2015, which necessitated very delicate surgery.”

“He experienced internal bleeding, and doctors had to insert a catheter in one of his kidneys to save it from failing.”

“The doctors told him he needed to stop playing football, but he was so anxious to keep playing that he went through the agony, which meant he passed blood after every game.”

“His family was concerned that he would lose his kidney, but he didn’t want to disappoint his coach, team, or club.”

“He got a tattoo with the inscription ‘Strength does not come from the body, but from the will of the soul’ after that horrific event.”

“What I’m trying to emphasize is that if Saul can overcome a significant kidney ailment, he can overcome any problems at Chelsea – it’s just his character.”

When Saul, 27, was playing with the catheter, he requested that his kidney be removed since he believed the gadget was holding him back.

They declined, and things ultimately returned to normal…

Chelsea overcame Manchester United and a slew of other clubs to sign the Spain international after he helped Atleti win LaLiga last season.

Chelsea fans were ecstatic about an initial loan with the prospect of a permanent £35 million deal next summer. They had begun to turn after struggling to make an effect.

Nonetheless, Jony, 36, argues that his brother was always aware that it would be a struggle – one in which he believes Saul will triumph.

“He is a realist, and he never thought it would be an easy trip,” he continued. He’s a newcomer competing for a spot on a European champions’ team.

“On top of that, Chelsea’s midfield is a high-quality unit that is possibly the team’s strongest.

“However, my brother isn’t the type to give up quickly. He enjoys a good challenge and is also tenacious. When he has a goal in mind, he will fight until he achieves it.

“I can assure everyone at Chelsea that he has the club’s best interests at heart.” He has no intention of abandoning up; he is only waiting for his chance.”

The first ray of hope for Niguez came last Sunday, when he was singled out for praise by Thomas Tuchel following an outstanding second half off the bench in a goalless draw at Wolves.

“It’s no secret that since he left Spain, my brother has not played as many games for Chelsea as we had expected,” Jony stated.

“He was one of Atletico’s core players, one of Diego Simeone’s most trusted warriors, and he needed time to adjust to a new coach and new style after nearly 10 years there.”

“I understand how driven he is to perform and impress everyone, and I also understand his capabilities.

“But the season is lengthy, Chelsea has a lot of expectations, and he knows the coach will give him the opportunity — and I’m sure you’ll see Saul at his best when that time comes.”