"Hazard could win the Ballon d'Or"

AZPILICUETA LOVING LIFE UNDER MOU AT CHELSEA

MARCA talked to Spanish defender César Azpilicueta a few days after he helped Chelsea lift the Capital One Cup.

"It's a trophy that is viewed as important here in England. We see it as the reward for our efforts over the course of the season so far and it makes us feel that we're on track for more success", the full-back stated about the Wembley victory over Tottenham.

Do you feel more appreciated in England than in Spain?

"I feel appreciated in general, particularly when it comes to those who have been following me since I started out at Osasuna and my spell at Marseille, when I got injured. It's true that I get more love in England, but that's normal when you don't play for a Spanish club. Luckily the Premier League is watched all over the world".

Are we seeing you at your best right now?

"You're constantly improving as a player. I've had older teammates who felt their best was still to come and I believe that too. I've been operating in a different position at club level [left-back] in which I've been feeling more and more at home in recent months, but I still have hopes of playing even better".

Do you think Eden Hazard is on Cristiano Ronaldo and Leo Messi's level?

"They're two monsters in footballing terms. Eden is a great player and is younger than they are, so he has more room for improvement. I think he could win the Ballon d'Or in the future".