Chelsea and Belgium playmaker, Eden Hazard has attributed his inspirational international form to former French striker, Thierry Henry. In fact, he mentioned it unabashedly in a recent interview with a French newspaper stating, “He [Henry] teaches us a lot. Even if he is not always there during training sessions, his presence in the set-up alone brings the best out of us.”
Henry joined the Belgium national team coaching setup alongside Roberto Martinez after Belgium’s shock exit in the Euro 2016 to Wales.
Speaking about his mentor, Thierry Henry, the Chelsea winger gushed with admiration and how the Frenchman’s influence has shaped his career and the recent impact Henry has had on his international career.
Also read: Chelsea transfer rumour: Chelsea want to sign Eden Hazard's brother, Thorgan Hazard
In addition to getting the best out of Hazard and his teammates, the Belgian speaking to, L'Equipe stated, “Everyone knows my love for the French team. When I was younger, I watched more of Thierry and Les Bleus than the Belgium team. So it's a pleasure to have him as a coach. “
Belgium looking to fulfil their potential
Back in the summer, Belgium entered the Euro 2016 as one of the potential favourites to win the competition. The Belgium squad gave a good account of themselves before an inspired Welsh side knocked them out in the quarterfinals.
Hazard was recently handed the captain’s armband in the absence of Vincent Kompany and acknowledged the additional responsibility stating, “It's good for me to be the captain. But I can't be like John Terry. As captain, I don't talk too much. I try to talk with my feet on the pitch. “
In fact, the Belgian clearly outlined his ideas for the team stating, “My ambition is to lead Belgium to the World Cup, to win something for the country. I hope we can do it but it's still far away.”
The 25-year-old has been in excellent form this season. Under the tutelage of new incumbent Antonio Conte, Hazard has been instrumental in the upturn of the Chelsea side, which played miserably last season. The familiar swagger and smile of the star playmaker were on display last weekend when the Blues destroyed Everton 5-0.
Freed of his defensive duties, the Belgian has been a livewire and attributes which were absent last season are once again visible.
The Belgian was on the score-sheet in an 8-1 win over Estonia. However, Hazard left the field after 73 minutes after a foul on him by Estonia's Gert Kams. From emanating reports, it has been learned that the substitution was a precautionary measure rather than a forced one.
Antonio Conte will hope the injury is not a cause for concern as he prepares for Chelsea's Premier League clash against Middlesbrough next weekend.
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