Jamie Carragher discusses Eden Hazard's Chelsea future

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher believes Chelsea may have to contend with the departure of Eden Hazard, if they fail to qualify for the Champions League next season. The Belgium international has been a vital cog in the Blues' attack in recent years, guiding the club to Premier League glory in 2015 and 2017.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Carragher hailed Hazard as one of the world's best, but doubts whether he would stick with the club, should they fail to finish in the Champions League positions, he said: "He is one of the top players in world football, there's no doubt about that. The unfortunate thing when Chelsea are talking about getting into the top four tonight and Hazard said Chelsea are made to win trophies, this season they can still win the FA Cup and the Champions League, but if they don't get into the top four, you would have to worry about him."

Despite the comments, the club's hierarchy are said to be confident of his future beyond the summer with the Belgian himself clarifying that he would only leave Stamford Bridge on his own terms, and not be enticed by the speculation. Hazard's present deal only expires in the summer of 2020, and talks are alleged to be underway over a potential extension, though the attacker is prepared to end until the end of the season before discussing a long-term contract.

Chelsea are currently occupying the final Champions League position with 54 points, and the upcoming games against Manchester United, Crystal Palace and Manchester City could have a significant impact on their top-four hopes with Spurs just a solitary point behind them. The club's performances have improved of late with solid wins over West Bromwich Albion and Hull City combined with a hard-fought draw versus Barcelona in the Champions League, and the confidence is said to be high among the players leading into a key phase of the season.