Chelsea news: The Blues need to sell 'toxic' Eden Hazard, says Stan Collymore

What’s the story?

Former England international Stan Collymore suggested that Chelsea should cash in for Eden Hazard during the summer in order to get rid of the toxic dressing room.

In case you didn't know...

Eden Hazard joined Chelsea from Lille in 2012 and has been a consistent performer for the club since then. He played 232 league games for the Blues thus far, scoring 81 goals.

The Belgium international registered 12 goals and 10 assists in 24 league games this season and is among the favourites to win the PFA Player of the Season award.

However, he was linked with a move away from the club during the last few months and Real Madrid are among the favourites to sign him.

The heart of the matter

Stan Collymore recently took aim at Chelsea’s Eden Hazard and suggested that the Blues selling Hazard would make their dressing room a lot less toxic.

He said:

“Eden Hazard needs to leave Stamford Bridge – to rid Chelsea of its toxic ­dressing room.”

“Nothing against the Belgian, who I rate one of the best in the world, but it’s time for the club to cash in.

“He’s a wonderful talent but I’ve got a nagging feeling he’s part of the problems at the club.

The Englishman further added:

“Jose Mourinho was lukewarm towards him, Antonio Conte wasn’t overly keen, and now he is part of a crew whose bottle Maurizio Sarri has questioned in the last few weeks.”

What Collymore is referring to is the fact Maurizio Sarri has come out recently and suggested he cannot motivate his players.

What's next?

Hazard has been linked with a move away from the club. However, as of yet, he continues playing for the Blues and would be integral to their quest for silverware this season.

Chelsea will look towards the Belgian to make the difference as they play Manchester City next in the league before making a trip to Sweden to play Malmo FF for the first leg of the UEFA Europa League Round of 32.