Chelsea’s Eden Hazard named 'London Player of the Year'

Eden Hazard

Chelsea forward Eden Hazard has been awarded a London Player of the Year award on behalf the Willow Foundation.

The Belgian has been in sensational form this season and is one of the key reasons why Chelsea currently occupy first place in the Premier League, and are seven points clear of their nearest competitors and favourites to regain the title.

He has scored 13 goals, including one hat-trick and is widely tipped to be in the running for the PFA Player of the Year when the annual awards come around. He has strict competition from the likes of Luis Suarez and Yaya Toure but his London award would be a good consolation prize.

Jose Mourinho has begun to mould his team around the talented Belgian, who signed from Lille in 2012 after Chelsea had won the Champions League.

“I am really happy and honoured to receive this award,” said Hazard. “I feel my performances over the past year have been on a very high level and it’s always nice when people recognise that.

“I want to give a special thanks to everyone at the club and the fans, for believing in me and for supporting me in my career.

“Finally, thanks to the Willow Foundation for this award. I hope your evening was a big success and I wish you all the best for the future as your hard work makes a difference to so many.”

The awards were decided by a panel of judges from a range of football backgrounds and other winners on the night included England manager Roy Hodgson, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Willow was founded by Wilson and his wife, Megs, in memory of their daughter, Anna, who died of cancer aged just 31.

Hazard has created 79 chances in the league this season, more than anybody else.