Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola believes Eden Hazard can reach the dizzying heights of Lionel Messi if he adds more consistency to his game.
The Italian became a cherished figure at Stamford Bridge during his seven years at the club between 1996-2003 but thinks Hazard can eclipse his own brilliance and become one of the world's very best, as long as he is willing to put in a tremendous amount of work.
After clinching the Player of the Season award in the 2014/15 season, the Belgian struggled with form and fitness last season only to explode back into prominence under Antonio Conte this term. With seven goals to his name already this season, he has already surpassed his tally from last year and, at 25, Zola knows there is still plenty of time for him to blossom.
Congratulations Eden Hazard! The @ChelseaFC star is the @EASPORTSFIFA Player of the Month for October pic.twitter.com/vu3wCiccsx
"The potential is there. He has to be a little more consistent.Last year wasn't so great for him and it has affected his considerations," Zola said via theMirror.
"But I think a good step back can make you better. You learn that you need to train harder, because if you want to be as good as Messi or Ronaldo you have to work very hard.
Eden Hazard is set to make his 150th #PL appearance later - he has 48 goals and 31 assists so far #MIDCHE pic.twitter.com/lzulTdGHp6
"They were born with that [talent] and became who they are because they worked really hard.I think Eden has gone through a difficult year and I believe it matured him and he's ready to go even higher."
Hazard will line-up for the Blues as they host Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday evening, with Conte's men looking for a seventh successive win - and clean sheet - as they aim to continue the outstanding run that has propelled them to the top of the Premier League.