Tuesday 7 March 2017 12:53, UK
Frank Lampard says Eden Hazard is the best player he has ever played with in terms of ability, skill and awareness.
Hazard joined Chelsea in 2012 from Lille, and played alongside Lampard for two years until the Englishman moved to Manchester City and New York City FC.
Speaking before Chelsea's 2-1 win over West Ham on Monday Night Football, guest Lampard said although the likes of Paolo Di Canio and Gianfranco Zola run Hazard close, the Belgian is the best of that attacking ilk he has played with.
"He's at the top of the tree in terms of ability on the ball, awareness and skill," said Lampard.
"Di Canio was probably the first I played with who had that ability; Gianfranco Zola was one of the best.
"But I think where Hazard has the edge - Zola had a great career - [Hazard] has a real great speed, he can do things at top speed, and we've seen that [on Monday Night Football].
"His skill on the ball, how he does it at speed, he's just a world class player and I want to see him kick on, do it regularly as he is doing it this year, for years to come.
"And then I think he'll be seen as being one of the best players in the world."
Chelsea are now 10 points clear at the top of the Premier League with 11 games of the season remaining.
And Blues legend Lampard says Antonio Conte's side are superbly drilled, and says the entire team know their roles.
"What's made them so effective is they all know their jobs and up front they have those special players. It's similar to Jose's team in that sense.
"That's the magic because a lot of teams have struggled with consistency this season and Chelsea have found a formula to win games.
"They have changed to a back three and they are so well drilled. The wing-backs are a danger going forward but they are also solid defensively.
"I don't see too much rotation in that team, particularly from the defence and midfield players."
