Eden Hazard focused only on 'end of season and World Cup', not on his Chelsea future

With his current contract set to expire in 2020, the Belgian forward's future has been the subject of much speculation

Belgium's footballer Eden Hazard addresses a press conference in Tubize, on March 26, 2018, ahead of a friendly match between Belgium and Saudi Arabia. / AFP PHOTO / Belga / BRUNO FAHY / Belgium OUT
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Belgian forward Eden Hazard has said he is in no rush to discuss his Chelsea future, preferring to focus on the end of the season and the World Cup before any potential talks of a contract extension.

Hazard, 27, is widely regarded to be Chelsea's best player, but with his existing deal set to expire in 2020, there has been speculation relating to his future at the London club. In essence, should Hazard refuse to sign a new contract, this summer would represent Chelsea's final chance to sell the Belgium international at a premium price.

Media reports have claimed that Chelsea are determined to hold on to Hazard, with the club keen to open talks at the earliest opportunity. However, persistent speculation linking Hazard with Spanish giants Real Madrid continues to cast doubt over the Belgian's future.

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Hazard was asked about his contract situation on Tuesday as he prepares with the Belgium national team for a friendly against Saudi Arabia, and the former Lille player insisted he was calm about his future.

"Look, I'm going to finish the season first, then play the World Cup and then I'll leave on holiday ... we'll see what happens next," Hazard said.

"I haven't thought about it yet. I have another two years' contract with Chelsea. I am very happy. I just think about the end of the season and the World Cup."

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has been criticised recently for his negative approach to their 1-0 league defeat by Manchester City this month, in which Hazard cut a frustrated figure operating in the unfamiliar role of a deep-lying striker.

However, Hazard said he was fully committed to helping fifth-placed Chelsea to secure a top-four finish and a Uefa Champions League spot for next season.

"I just want to be on the pitch," Hazard said. "No 9 or No 10. I can play left back if the manager wants me to, no problem."

Chelsea host fellow top-four contenders Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Mauricio Pochettino's side are currently fourth with 61 points, five points clear of Chelsea.