Hazard future not up to me, says Conte

Antonio Conte has admitted it is “impossible” for him to guarantee that Eden Hazard will stay at Stamford Bridge this summer, claiming the decision rests with his Chelsea bosses and the player.

Chelsea remain determined to keep Hazard in the wake of renewed interest from Real Madrid, and Conte, the head coach, believes the Belgian is happy with the Premier League leaders.

But he insists the final decision on Hazard, who is to be offered a new contract at the end of the season, will not be his.

“I think that it’s impossible for me to take this responsibility, not only for Eden but for every single player,” said Conte. “In this situation, it’s the club who have the final decision. I can say my opinion about this situation, but I repeat: the club has the final word.”

Asked whether Chelsea could achieve what he wanted if they sold Hazard, Conte was more encouraging and added: “I don’t think that this idea is in the mind of the club. I think we have to improve the team, to reinforce the team.

“You know that, in football, there is also the will of the player. But I think, also, Eden is very happy to stay in Chelsea, to stay with us and work with us. I can tell this. But the future... I haven’t a crystal ball.

“I think Eden is very happy to stay and play for this team, for this club. I think his family is very happy to stay here.”

Hazard has been in superb form this season as Chelsea attempt to close out the Premier League title race. Four points ahead of Tottenham Hotspur, they face what looks to be the toughest of their final five fixtures at Everton tomorrow.