Eden Hazard has not been at his best this season and Chelsea’s interim manager Guus Hiddink admitted that the Belgian’s dismal season has put him way behind the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. However, the veteran Dutch manager felt that with hardwork and dedication, Hazard could still manage to reach their levels.
Hazard has recovers some of his form recently with his goal againt Tottemham settling the title in Leicester City’s favour. Hiddink however warned the Belgian that he will have to work hard under Antonio Conte next season.
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"If you want the recognition of the Ballon d'Or, then you need more consistency in performances," Hiddink said of Hazard. "You go to the players who are performing under huge pressure in La Liga but they enjoy it, like Ronaldo, Messi, Iniesta and others. They have consistency in their performances. It's a longer way for him to knock on that door.
"We must not forget that he had a frustrating time being injured, coming back, playing, getting a setback in injury. He was not fully fit and then you're not fully fresh. In the recent period you could see he was enjoying training, moving freely without any hesitations.
"You could see it against Bournemouth, which wasn't the most intense game, and then he enjoyed himself very much in the last game [against Tottenham]. He's not the most ecstatic guy but he is training very well. He laughs and enjoys it very much. When he wasn't fit you could see the face of frustration."
Asked what Hazard must do to ensure he is back at his best next season, Hiddink replied: "Having a good end of the season for us and then being very physically fit for the Euros to have a very good impact for Belgium. Then, after that, making a very good preseason. When this guy is physically fit then he can automatically play as nature has gifted him.
"In coaching we always think that we make this player, we discover that player. But they are gifted and if the conditions are well for him, in the environment or the physical parts, the big players love to play like amateurs."
Belgium will be hoping that Hazard gets back to his best soon as he will pplay a crucial role in their attempts to win the Euros in France.
