Ex-Chelsea man Eden Hazard has bemoaned his consistent injury issues as the main reason behind his so far underwhelming spell with Real Madrid.
The Belgian winger joined Los Blancos in 2019 in a huge move from Stamford Bridge following Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit from the club.
Despite being hugely influential in his time with Chelsea, Hazard has so far not managed to hit the same heights in Spain having suffered from a number of frustrating injuries.
As a result, the 30-year-old has netted on just five occasions in 43 outings for Real having missed a total of 54 games through injury or fitness issues.
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Hazard suggests that those persistent problems have been a huge reason behind his struggles so far and also admitted that he might never be able to reach his previous lofty heights again.
He said: “I never doubted my qualities, but whether I would be 100% fit for the European Championship was going to be a question.
“I broke my ankle three times, it will never be the same as 10 years ago.
“But I know that when I am in shape, that I can prove myself on the field and that’s what I’m working on now.”
The Belgian’s injuries and lack of form have had a knock-on effect on his Euro 2020 participations.
He has twice been brought off the bench by Roberto Martinez in his nation;s opening two games but has suggested that he is eyeing more of an impact in the latter stages.
The summer window is officially open and now the Blues can look to build on European glory and bolster the squad to push for Premier League supremacy.
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“I’m not 100% yet, but I’m ready to start. But that was the plan, to bring me along gradually.
“It’s especially important to be completely fit in the knockout phase,” he continued.
“Then I have to be in top shape.”