'He's an example to us' - Rudiger says Hazard is untouchable in Chelsea

Eden Hazard has been labelled as the only untouchable player at Chelsea by team-mate Antonio Rudiger.

Hazard has made a scintillating start to the new campaign, scoring seven times in just five starts for Maurizio Sarri's side while also delighting spectators with his dribbling from attacking midfield.

And Rudiger has called the Belgian 'an example' to the rest of the Chelsea squad, saying that he is the only player currently assured of his place.

‘Everyone has to fight for their place in this team,’ he said. ‘No one’s place is safe, apart from Hazard.

‘He is safe, I am sure about that! He is an example to the rest of us.

‘We should not underestimate anyone and must keep going. Our aim has to be to go through to the next round in first place in the group.’

Hazard was a second-half substitute on Thursday as Chelsea beat Hungarian side Vidi 1-0 at Stamford Bridge.

Alvaro Morata was the difference for Maurizio Sarri's men as he flicked home Willian's knock-on to settle an unexpectedly tight encounter.

Unbeaten in the Premier League, Chelsea travel to Southampton on Sunday looking to keep pace with fellow frontrunners Liverpool and Manchester City at the top of the table.