Chelsea star Eden Hazard accepts he has not been 'up to scratch' this season

Eden Hazard has admitted he has been below par so far this season

EDEN HAZARD has revealed that he has not been 'as good' as he was last year so far this season.

 

The Belgian international had a sensational campaign last term, collecting both the PFA and Football Writers' Association Player of the Year awards as Chelsea were crowned Premier League champions. 

The Blues however have started their title defence slowly, collecting just four points from their opening four games, and Hazard admits he has not been up to scratch.

 

Speaking to French sports newspaper L'Equipe he said: "It's obvious. You don't need to know too much about football to compare what I did last season and what I did this season. I'm not as good."

Hazard was singled out by Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho following last weekend's defeat to Crystal Palace, however the 24-year-old believes he is not the only man to blame.

 

Chelsea have only managed to gain four points from their opening four Premier League games this year

"It's more of a collective problem than an individual one," he said. "We're professionals. We knew this season was going to be more difficult... but within the squad we have the quality to bounce back.

"Individually and collectively, we're not up to scratch. Starting with me.

"We had a difficult month in August. I hope that the international break will allow me to rediscover my form."