StoryEden Hazard backed by Eric for Best Player in World

Chelsea star Eden Hazard has been voted as one of the favourites to take over from Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as the best player in the world by former Belgium defender Eric Gerets.

Hazard is easily regarded as the best player for Belgium right now. The 23-year-old moved to Chelsea in a £ 35 million deal and has instantly been effective. A number of clubs were looking to sign him, but the youngster chose Chelsea. Since moving to West London, he has progressed in a number of ways. Last season was one of his best after scoring 17 goals in 49 matches.

Even though he has not been scoring in the same pace this campaign and has only five goals in 17 matches so far, his overall contribution has been better because he has been defending as well. Gerets says that the only 23-year-old has the potential to reach the level of Messi and Ronaldo. These two players are now regarded as the best in the world, but it appears that Hazard has a long way to go before he can match them. Ronaldo and Messi have been scoring more than a goal per game in the last couple of years. They have also shared the last five FIFA Ballon d’Or awards.

“Even Messi needed a lot of time before he was the saviour of the national team. It didn’t happen for several years. You have to give Hazard more time. It will come. He has too much talent.The future will show if he’s able to get on the same level as they [Messi and Ronaldo] are.Even if he never makes it to the same level, just below them is still a world (class) player. With the talent Belgium has at the moment it would be a disappointment if by the next European Championship they don’t get to the semi-finals," said the former defender.