Antonio Conte said that he is surprised by the Belgium’s decision to select Eden Hazard in their international squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
He is yet to play for Chelsea this season after his ankle surgery following the injury he picked playing for Belgium back in June.
The 26-year-old featured in a friendly last week but will miss Chelsea’s line-up when they meet Everton in the Premier League on Sunday.
‘I’m a bit surprised by this decision,’ said Conte. ‘I respect the decision of the coach though.
‘If Hazard isn’t ready he will not play, it’s why he doesn’t play with us. I think the only players that is not fully fit is Hazard. He is improving.
‘Today in the afternoon he is playing with the Under-23s but he is not fully fit. The other players are available.
‘Honestly I see him every day. In this situation it’s very important to give the right time to players to recover very well.
‘Hazard is an important player for us and if someone thinks to accelerate the process I think it’s not the right way. In this moment we must pay great attention to not make a mistake.’
Belgium are due to face Gibraltar and Greece next week in a double header and manger Roberto Martinez will check on Hazard’s fitness on Monday.
‘We have an incredible relationship with Chelsea. I don’t foresee any problems. We need Eden as a player and a human.’
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