Hazard’s display again highlights his importance to Chelsea

Eden Hazard remained a Chelsea player during the transfer window despite being repeatedly linked with Real Madrid. 

And Blues supporters can breathe a sigh of relief now it is clear the Belgium international will be staying at Stamford Bridge.

Hazard scored his second of the season as Maurizio Sarri’s side beat Bournemouth 2-0 on Saturday to extend their winning Premier League run. It underlined his huge importance to the team.

Goal threat

Always popping up in and around the edge of the penalty area, it was no shock to see Hazard wrap up the points for Chelsea with a well-taken finish.

Collecting a smart pass from Marcos Alonso, the forward drilled home past Asmir Begovic to add to Pedro’s opener and seal a fourth win from four for Chelsea.

Creativity

As with his scoring record, it is a familiar sight to see Hazard controlling the game – although in truth Bournemouth set out to quash any of Chelsea’s attacking play.

Newcastle and their manager Rafael Benitez were roundly criticised for their negative approach in a 2-1 loss to Sarri’s side last week but it appears to be the way most teams will approach stemming the flow of players like Hazard.

Despite that, Hazard ran for the whole game, winning free-kicks and laying on some decent chances, including one for Alonso – who hit the he post in the first half.

Overall

With Chelsea starting the season with a 100 per cent record, it is clear that any continued success will in no small part be down to the performances of Hazard.

He was key here to Chelsea eventually breaking down stubborn Bournemouth resilience and, although it was not one of his most memorable displays, he once again showed his importance to the Chelsea cause.