Football News: Bertrand Names Hazard as Toughest Opponent
In a recent exclusive interview with talkSPORT.com, former Chelsea and Southampton defender Ryan Bertrand has revealed that Eden Hazard was the toughest opponent he faced during his illustrious career.
Bertrand, who recently announced his retirement from professional football, enjoyed a successful stint at Chelsea, winning the Champions League, Europa League, and FA Cup with the club. The 34-year-old came up against some of the best players in the world, including the likes of Mohamed Salah, Wayne Rooney, and Kevin De Bruyne, but it was Hazard who stood out as the most challenging opponent.
“I’d probably say Hazard. Playing against Hazard was probably a tough one because of his low centre of gravity.”
Bertrand had the opportunity to play alongside Hazard at Chelsea before facing him on nine occasions during his time at Southampton.
Hazard, who is now retired, was a true icon during his seven-year stint at Stamford Bridge. The former Chelsea Player of the Year was named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year on four separate occasions, helping the Blues win two Premier League titles, two Europa Leagues, the FA Cup, and the League Cup. He amassed an impressive tally of 110 goals and 85 assists in 352 matches for the club.
Hazard’s dribbling, skill, and eye for goal made him one of the most exciting players to ever don a Chelsea shirt. His departure to Real Madrid in a £130million deal in 2019 was met with sadness by the Chelsea faithful, as numerous injury issues meant he was unable to replicate his Blues form in Spain, despite winning two LaLiga titles, the Champions League, the Super Cup, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.
Bertrand’s recognition of Hazard as the toughest opponent he faced is a testament to the Belgian’s exceptional talent and the challenges he posed to even the most seasoned defenders in the Premier League.
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