Chelsea defeated Burnley 4-0 on Sunday behind goals from Alvaro Morata, Ross Barkley, Willian, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek. One name missing from the Blues’ starting XI was forward Eden Hazard. The Belgian is nursing a back injury he picked up against Manchester United a week ago. Despite missing their star, Chelsea cruised to victory. Now, it looks likely that Chelsea will be without Hazard for their midweek Carabao Cup clash with Derby.
Eden Hazard remains injured
Following Chelsea’s win over Burnley, manager Maurizio Sarri spoke to the press about Hazard’s availability against Derby.
“I want him every match, if possible. I think that he offers something different,” Sarri said. “I am very happy as the team was able to score seven goals in two matches without him.
“I want him as soon as possible. I’m not sure for Wednesday.”
Sarri did express his hope that Hazard would be back for next weekend’s Premier League match against Crystal Palace. Hazard has tallied seven goals and three assists in nine Premier League games this term. He has been nearly unstoppable playing in Sarri’s tactics.
Ross Barley stars for Chelsea
While Hazard remains injured and on the sidelines, teammate Ross Barkley continues to play well for the Blues. The 24-year-old has tallied three goals and three assists in nine Premier League appearances. Five of Barkley’s appearances have come from the bench.
Barkley failed to make an impact at Chelsea last season under manager Antonio Conte but is thriving — like Hazard — under Sarri.
“He’s doing very well in this period,” Sarri said. “He’s improved in the defensive phase and he has improved his physical condition because the last season for him was very difficult with a very serious injury.
“He stopped the activity for six months. Now he’s improving the physical condition.
“He’s a very good player from a technical point of view. He’s improved the defensive phase. Now I think Ross is complete.”
Chelsea will play Derby on Wednesday night at Stamford Bridge in the Carabao Cup round of 16.
Is Eden Hazard the best player in the Premier League this season?