Hiddink Tells Hazard To Get Back His Ego

Guus Hiddink has said Eden Hazard needs to recover his ego so he can return to the form he showed at Chelsea last season.

The interim Blues manager has prioritised restoring the confidence shattered by nine Premier League defeats in the current campaign - as well as the departure of Jose Mourinho.

The 69-year-old wants Chelsea to locate the self-assurance that underscored last season's league title charge, to guide the Blues away from relegation conflict.

Hazard faced fierce criticism for his performances this season, with some Chelsea fans making a banner describing him, Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas as "rats" in the aftermath of the Mourinho sacking.

But the Belgian could overcome hip trouble and be selected for the home game against Watford on Boxing Day, with Hiddink intent on helping the 24-year-old hit back to his best after a miserable opening to the new campaign.

"He had a terrific season last year and it's also normal you can have a setback after that, but I think he can be a key player again," said Hiddink.

Hazard proved an unwitting participant in Dr Eva Carneiro's exit from Chelsea in September.

Blues medic Carneiro was branded "naive" for rushing onto the field to treat the Belgium star in Chelsea's 2-2 draw with Swansea on 8 August.

Hazard, who was one of Chelsea's most potent and creative attacking forces last term, has been a shadow of his former self - but Hiddink vowed to restore the ex-Lille star to his former glory.

"He is a key player as captain of the national team in Belgium - but also here when he gets back into shape," he explained.

"He was unlucky to be injured recently, which was another setback. We need to get the ego back for him to perform."