Pat Nevin: This is why Eden Hazard struggled for Chelsea at Middlesbrough

Pat Nevin believes that Eden Hazard failed to click into gear for Chelsea during Sunday’s 1-0 win at Middlesbrough.

The Belgian playmaker did not manage to have a big impact on the game as Diego Costa netted the eventual winner in the 41st minute at the Riverside Stadium.

Hazard has been in much better form for Chelsea so far this season and has already scored seven times in the Premier League for Antonio Conte’s men.

However, the 25-year-old was not at his best for the west London club against Middlesbrough on Sunday.

And Chelsea legend Nevin gave his explanation as to why after the game.

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Nevin said: “Eden Hazard has put in a hell of a shift but he has not had his best game.

“You always come to see a player like him play – you want to see something extra special.

“But he had a couple of knocks early on which seemed to slow him down a little I think.”

Chelsea’s win at Boro lifted Conte’s men to the top of the Premier League table for the first time since they last won the title back in the 2014-15 season.

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The Blues are one point clear of second-placed Liverpool after 12 games of the new season.