10 October 2023 , 19:55
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Jamie Carragher has hit out at critics of Eden Hazard after the Belgian announced his retirement, insisting he is an 'all-time great'.
Hazard confirmed on Tuesday that his playing days are over after months of speculation over his future. He was released by Real Madrid in the summer after a deeply disappointing four-year spell at the Bernabeu, in which he scored just seven goals.
But before his dreadful time in the Spanish capital, Hazard starred at Chelsea, winning two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, the League Cup and two Europa Leagues. The memory of his dazzling performances for the Blues has left Carragher convinced how he should be remembered.
"Interesting seeing the takes on here regarding @hazardeden10 so here's mine! He was the best player in the Premier League for four years. Won PFA Young Player, PFA Player & FWP of the Year awards. He won every trophy at Chelsea except the Champions League," Carragher tweeted.
"He was in my eyes the best performer at the 2018 World Cup when Belgium finished third. An all-time @premierleague great no doubt and would be in a lot of all-time 11s!
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"In the past that alone would be enough to be lauded unquestionably but in this day and age, people are still not happy with that, as he didn't win a World Cup or do the business at Madrid."
HAVE YOUR SAY! Is Eden Hazard an all-time Premier League great? Comment below.
Jamie Carragher believes Eden Hazard's spell at Chelsea makes him a Premier League great despite his early retirement (Getty Images)Hazard announced his decision to retire after his time at Madrid was blighted by injury. Earlier in the year he retired from international football and has now admitted that his body is no longer capable of performing at the highest level.
"You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time. After 16 years and more than 700 matches played, I have decided to end my career as a professional footballer," Hazard wrote in a statement on Instagram.
"I was able to realise my dream, I have played and had fun on many pitches around the world. During my career I was lucky to meet great managers, coaches and teammates - thank you to everyone for these great times, I will miss you all.
"I also want to thank the clubs I have played for: LOSC, Chelsea and Real Madrid; and thank the RBFA for my Belgian Selection. A special thank you to my family, my friends, my advisors and the people who have been close to me in good times and bad.
"Finally, a huge thank you to you, my fans, who have followed me for all these years and for your encouragement everywhere I have played. Now is the time to enjoy my loved ones and have new experiences. See you off the field soon my friends."