Zidane hails 'world-class' Chelsea star

Zinedine Zidane has lavished praise upon Chelsea forward Eden Hazard, claiming that there are too few players like the Belgian in today's game.

The former Real Madrid star is widely regarded as one of the best ever in world football, thanks largely to his superb technical ability and footballing brain.

Now, the Frenchman is studying for his coaching qualifications, and took time to commend the explosive impact the 21-year-old has made in the Premier League.

"I told myself – this player is different," Zidane told Canal +. "He is a player with enormous personality on the pitch.

"He gives you pleasure. What he does at his age impresses me. He helps others to play, for me that is his strength. He is intelligent when he plays the game."

After Roberto Di Matteo paid £32million to bring the former Lille winger to Stamford Bridge, there was an inevitable amount of pressure on the shoulders of Hazard, but he has coped with the expectation well, impressing for Chelsea on numerous occasions already this season.

Having already formed a formidable understanding with the likes of Fernando Torres, Juan Mata, and another summer signing Oscar, Hazard's profile as one of Europe's leading forwards will go from strength to strength.

"I think that today's game lacks intelligent players," Zidane added. "All I see today is individuals. There aren't players of this standard."