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Brussels :AFP: Belgian playmaker Eden Hazard’s form ahead of the World Cup has sparked a feverish debate in his home country where one former international has called for the Chelsea star to be dropped.
Belgium have been tipped as a team who could upset the favourites at the World Cup.
But two-time World Cup veteran Marc Degryse says the 23-year-old Hazard looked worryingly distracted during two warm up games for their Group H campaign against Russia, South Korea and Algeria.
Degryse, who played with Wilmots in the national side, said the Belgian coach Marc Wilmots should have a sharp word with Hazard, despite his goal in Belgium’s 2-0 win over Sweden last Sunday.
His criticism echoed Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho after Chelsea lost 3-1 at home to Spanish side Atletico Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals.
“He has to work harder defensively.Against Sweden he switched off several times, just like he did in the Champions League for Chelsea against Atletico Madrid. If that doesn’t change Wilmots will have to resolve it by dropping him.” said the 48-year-old Degryse, who scored 23 times in 63 appearances for Belgium.
Hazard moved to the English Premier League in 2012 for a reported 32 million pounds ($54 million) after inspiring Lille to the 2011 French title.
Degryse, who scored twice in seven appearances at the 1990 and 1994 World Cups, said Hazard needs a wake up call from time to time to be shaken out of complacency.
“Hazard is the type of player that sometimes needs a kick up the back. It is time for him to produce a good performance, on which he leaves his imprint.
“We have been waiting a long time for this. We have the right to expect this of a lad who is as talented as he is. If he doesn’t feel concerned about this he has to give way to somebody else.”
While Wilmots has dismissed the concerns of Degryse and others, saying that he expected Hazard to be on top form for Saturday’s friendly with Tunisia. He did add though that he would drop the player if he does not perform.
“He (Hazard) has my full support,” said Wilmots, who guided Belgium to their first World Cup finals since 2002.
“He needs matches to get into the rhythm. However, there can be no doubt about his ability or form when one reflects on how he played for Chelsea last season.
“That said if he plays badly I will not hesitate to replace him.”
Online Reporter