Hazard backs Neymar over World Cup criticism

Chelsea and Belgium star Eden Hazard defended Neymar’s actions at the World Cup in Russia saying that criticism he faced was unfair given the responsibility and the expectations that the Brazilian was shouldering for the five-time world champions.

Neymar came under intense criticism throughout the World Cup particularly for his theatrics. A strong Brazil side which looked like strong favourites to lift their sixth world title were ousted by Hazard’s Belgium in the quarterfinal stage at Russia.

Hazard said that the rough treatment that Neymar received was totally inappropriate.

"Totally inappropriate," he told HLN.

Hazard, who was in excellent form at the World Cup had his fair share of ankle injuries and knows how difficult it is to perform at the top after coming back from an injury layoff.

"Neymar suffered the same injury two months before the World Championships as I did in June 2017 - a break between the ankle and the foot. He was out for a month and a half.

"I can assure you: the body is not immediately ready for top performance again. Yet in Russia all responsibility came to his shoulders. He had to be the star of the tournament, he had to carry Brazil to the world title, he had to dribble, and all media peeked.

Neymar has a penchant for mesmerizing the crowd with his skills that often comes off as showboating and Hazard said that a skillful player like Neymar wants to give the audience something to think and cheer about.

"Plus, I know Neymar: he also wants to give the audience something.