Hazard must be protected, insists Conte

EDEN HAZARD needs to be shown more respect by clatterhappy opponents and given greater protection from referees, says his manager Antonio Conte.

The Belgian has excelled in Chelsea’s title surge despite being the most-fouled player — 258 times — in the Premier League since the start of the 2014-15 season.

The latest example came in the FA Cup win over Manchester United on Monday, when Hazard was repeatedly fouled, including when Marcos Rojo appeared to plant his studs in his chest.

Speaking ahead of today’s clash with Stoke, Conte said: ‘ The referee must pay great attention and try to respect the rules.

‘In the first 20-25 minutes (of the United game) I saw only this type of situation, and it was impossible for him to play football. I don’t like this, and I always want to face a team who wants to play.

‘I think that’s important. Eden is showing great football but also great character and personality.’