Hiddink praises Hazard after Blues draw

Guus Hiddink was full of praise for Eden Hazard after the Belgian’s display in the 1-1 draw against Liverpool.

Hazard, who attracted criticism for his performances earlier in the season. scored a brilliant goal to put the Blues ahead at Anfield.

And Hiddink, who is approaching the end of his time as interim boss, believes the Belgian has responded well to the doubters with his much-improved form in recent weeks.

“Everyone in a job gets criticism and it’s how you deal with that,” said Hiddink.

“It can affect you a bit, but it’s always good to see the reaction when you’re criticised like he was.

“He has had a difficult year. He has had injures, come back, had more injuries, and that made him vulnerable physically.

“He plays with courage – he receives a lot of physical contact but nevertheless he goes on.

“He’s fit and fresh – mentally and physically – and it’s a pleasure to see those type of players.”

Hazard’s goal looked like being enough to give Chelsea the points, but an injury-time mistake by keeper Asmir Begovic gifted Liverpool an equaliser.

But Hiddink was more than happy with their performance in their penultimate match of what has been a disappointing season.

“It was of course a big disappointment in the last minute, but I can say Chelsea played a perfect game tonight,” he said.

“I can be very satisfied with the performance of the team, although it was a nice present for Liverpool in the last minute.”