Zinedine Zidane: Chelsea’s Eden Hazard is a role model for youngsters

Chelsea’s Eden Hazard

Real Madrid and France legend Zinedine Zidane has tipped Chelsea’s Eden Hazard to inspire the next generation of footballers and fans.

Hazard, 23, has been a revelation for Chelsea this season, scoring 12 Premier League goals and leading their charge for their fourth Premier League title since 2005.

Zidane, now assistant manager at his former club, Real Madrid spoke in glowing terms of the Belgian who looks set to star in this summer’s World Cup.

“I think for young people nowadays, Eden Hazard is the example to follow because what he does it great,” said Zidane to the press.

“I’ve always watched him since he was at Lille. I kept an eye on him because I love the game, I love beautiful players and that’s what he does on the pitch. He creates great football, he’s enjoyable to watch and not only me, by the way.

“What he does is good, so for all the youngsters, I think Eden Hazard, among many others, is the role model.”

Zidane also looked forward to the World Cup in Brazil, which is now less than 100 days from beginning.

“It’s true that we’re at 100 days from the World Cup in Brazil which is, as I often say, the country of football. Sadly we’re not players anymore so you won’t play during that tournament but I told them [France national team] to enjoy what will happen over there because it will surely be the best World Cup for a very long time.”

He added: “It’s going to be a great show.”

Hazard has created 77 chances in the Premier League this season, more than anybody else.