Derby County boss Frank Lampard has lavished praise on Eden Hazard ahead of his side’s Carabao Cup encounter with Chelsea this week.
Speaking ahead of the fixture at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday, the former Chelsea star was quick to hail Hazard following his impressive start to the season.
Belgium international Hazard has netted eight goals in all competitions and has also chipped in with three assists.
However, the winger has recently been struggling with a minor injury problem, as he continues to nurse a lower back issue.
This knock caused him to miss Chelsea’s wins against BATE Borisov and Burnley in the Europa League and Premier League respectively.
As quoted by FourFourTwo, Lampard waxed lyrical about the quality of Hazard and stated that he is hoping that Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri rests his star man for the cup clash. Lampard said:
On current form, I think he is (the best in the world). Of course, that can change, but I love watching him and he’s in his prime. He is an absolutely outstanding player in world football. Let’s hope he wants a rest! I think he’s scared of coming up against my team!
Chelsea will be keen to keep up their unbeaten start to the season with a win against Championship outfit Derby County, who advanced to this stage of the Carabao Cup after defeating Manchester United via a penalty shootout.
