Chelsea’s Eden Hazard: I must work on my efficiency

Chelsea’s Eden Hazard

Chelsea midfielder Eden Hazard says that he is working hard to build on his first season at the club. Whilst he stopped short of comparing his form this season to that of his first season at the club, the Belgian told Het Nieuwsblad that he is more settled and more experienced than he was and is better equipped to survive the rigours of the season than he was last year. Admitting that a lot is expected of him, Hazard insisted that his main aim is to play well and that goals will follow.

“I don’t think I will play all the games this season,” he said.

“I don’t know if I am stronger than last season – that is something we will only be able to say after the season has ended.”

“I feel well and have settled in this team. I have more experience and I can cope better with the amount of games.”

“I have to work on my efficiency, but I have nothing to worry about. We are doing well in the league and have qualified for the next round of the Champions League.

“We’re playing for the title and the manager asks me to be decisive. I try to be. That’s also what the Belgian national manager expects from me. So, they’re asking the same from me.

“I try to work as hard as possible and to enjoy myself on the pitch. I want to make people happy.

“I know that people expect more goals and assists from me. That’s logical. For me it is all about playing well. When I play well, I’ll score more goals.”

Hazard continued by talking about the prospect of playing for club and country with his younger brother Thorgan, who is currently impressing on loan at Zulte Waregem.

“We shall see if my brother is here next year”, continued the elder Hazard. “It’s not up to me to decide. The manager does.”

“I’m his brother and I’m convinced he has everything to make it over here.”

“He’s playing well this season and there’s a World Cup coming our way. I hope he’s selected too.”

“I have lots of friends in the national team, but playing with my little brother would be special – if he gets selected, and if I get selected.”

Hazard is only five take-ons away from equalling the total number he achieved last season. He has gone past his man 57 times this season – at a success rate of 60% – compared with 62 last season, at a success rate of 48%.