HAZARD WARNING OVER TROPHIES

EDEN HAZARD cannot be considered one of the world’s elite unless he wins major trophies, claims Antonio Conte.

The Chelsea boss puts Barcelona’s Andres Iniesta in that exclusive group of players – and an example for Hazard to follow.

The Spaniard has won four Champions League trophies with Barca and although Hazard has two Premier League winner’s medals, European football’s biggest club prize has eluded him.

Challenging him to put that right, Conte said: “We’re talking about two different players with different careers. Iniesta won a lot in his career. Hazard has to start to win important trophies in his career.

“I’ve great admiration for Andres Iniesta. For him and for the players who created the history of Barcelona. Iniesta is a genius of football. I like to compare him with Andrea Pirlo. We’re talking about a genius.

“I don’t know if he could play against us, but I think, in this type of game, it’s right to face the best and not hope they could miss out through injury.”

Iniesta has hamstring trouble but is expected to play, while Conte is also ready to gamble on his team selection.

Chelsea are set to start with Olivier

Giroud leading the attack with Hazard (above, with Conte) and Willian.

Conte added: “I think every single player playing against Barcelona at Camp Nou must be excited about this type of game.

“We know the difficulties we face. But to go through to the next round, we must stay in the game in every moment.”