Euro 2020 - Belgium star Eden Hazard admits ankle 'will never be the same' after prolonged injury battle

ByCoral Barry

Published 20/06/2021 at 20:41 GMT

Eden Hazard has opened up about his fitness woes as he bids to become a key player for Belgium at Euro 2020. Hazard's impact has been limited due to fitness concerns but the Real Madrid attacker is confident he can make the difference. "I broke my ankle three times, it will never be the same as it was 10 years ago. But I know that if I'm in shape, I can prove myself on the pitch," he said.

Eden Hazard has admitted his ankle ‘will never be the same’ as Belgium fans wait to see if the attacker can return to the starting line-up.

The Belgian’s impact at Euro 2020 has been limited by fitness concerns with Hazard missing the end of the league campaign with another ankle injury.

Belgium play Finland in their final group game on Monday and head coach Roberto Martinez is eager to give his playmaker more minutes.

Ballon d’Or

'It's perfect' - Hazard does not miss playing football but 'let's see in a few months'

30/10/2023 at 19:23

With qualification for the last 16 already secured, Hazard could be called upon – if his ankle holds up.

Lukaku on Christian Eriksen phone conversation - 'we laughed'

"We'll see how the game goes, but I may not be ready for 90 minutes," Hazard said ahead of the match.

I'm going to play as many minutes as possible at a high level. If it's 50, it's 50. If it's 60, it's 60. We will see.

"I never doubted my qualities, but whether I would be 100 per cent fit for the European Championship.

"I broke my ankle three times, it will never be the same as it was 10 years ago. But I know that if I'm in shape, I can prove myself on the pitch. That's what I'm working on now."

Belgium have impressed in the tournament and head coach Martinez has already said he plans to start Hazard against Finland.

"I am not 100% yet, but I am ready to start. But that was the plan, to bring me in gradually," he said.

• Italy see off ten-man Wales
• UEFA halt Neuer armband investigation

"It is especially important to be completely fit in the knockout phase. Then I have to be in top shape.

We have to work to get even better. We are doing our best to get better, starting with tomorrow. The tournament is still long and we are trying to get as far as possible.

"There are still areas for improvement, but we are here to work on it."

Football

Exclusive: 'He had it all' - Puel on what he saw in 'extraordinary' 16-year-old Hazard

10/10/2023 at 17:43

Premier League

Hazard announces retirement from football

10/10/2023 at 10:36

Transfers

Inter Miami, Barcelona and Al-Hilal battle for Messi - Paper Round

04/06/2023 at 08:19