Ahead of Belgium’s Euro 2016 clash with Italy, Chelsea winger Eden Hazard discussed impressing new boss Antonio Conte and teammate Radja Nainggolan.
Belgium and Italy are to begin their respective Euro 2016 campaigns today when they square off in one of the picks of the group stages. There is plenty of Chelsea interest in the contest, with Antonio Conte taking charge of Italy and Eden Hazard captaining Belgium. There are also many transfer targets set to feature.
Speaking ahead of the contest, Hazard spoke about his eagerness to directly impress the opposing manager before he arrives at Stamford Bridge at the tournament’s conclusion.
"I hope that I’m going to be able to show him everything I’m capable of producing and that next season he’ll be able to rely on me."
Hazard was one of the many under-performing players last season. His dip in form was especially notable given the high standards that he had set in the previous season. After being showered with accolades, the Belgian had crashed back down to Earth.
Nevertheless, he has since reaffirmed his commitment to the Blues and Euro 2016 provides Eden Hazard with an opportunity to show what he still has.
Furthermore, he has been handed the captaincy in Vincent Kompany’s absence and hence will also be able to showcase leadership traits that we have not yet seen from him.
In addition to discussing his personal goals, Hazard also gave some subtle hints regarding transfer targets. Radja Nainggolan has been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge and his Belgian teammate was forthcoming in his praise for the Roma player.
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"I think Radja Nainggolan is one of the best in the world in his position. So of course Thibaut Courtois and I would love him to come to Chelsea."
Chelsea are set for a major overhaul during the summer transfer window on the back of the worst title defence in Premier League history. Multiple players (predominantly plying their trade in the Serie A) have been associated with a Blues switch and this fixture will see many in action.
Nainggolan is probably the player that fans are most excited about and he will be hoping to increase his stock with a dominant display.
All eyes will be on Conte, though, to see what he can do with a relatively weak Italy squad. Will his unconventional tactics compensate for a lack of quality?
Next: Chelsea at Euro 2016: players, manager and transfer targets
Eden Hazard, meanwhile, will be fully focused on getting back to doing what he does best. Hopefully, this change of scene will reignite the winger and send him on the road to recovery.
All quotes taken from FourFourTwo.