Liverpool icon Jamie Carragher has dismissed the myth that Eden Hazard was one of the best players in Premier League history. Many Reds fans claimed that Mohamed Salah has already had a bigger impact on football and is the better player compared to Hazard following the Belgian's retirement announcement.
The forward gave thanks to everyone who helped his career on Instagram, and noted it was now time to spend more time with his family. Hazard's statement read: "You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time.
"After 16 years and more than 700 matches played, I have decided to end my career as a professional footballer. I was able to realise my dream, I have played and had fun on many pitches around the world.
"During my career I was lucky to meet great managers, coaches and teammates - thank you to everyone for these great times, I will miss you all. I also want to thank the clubs I have played for: LOSC, Chelsea and Real Madrid; and thank the RBFA for my Belgian Selection.
"A special thank you to my family, my friends, my advisors and the people who have been close to me in good times and bad. Finally, a huge thank you to you, my fans, who have followed me for all these years and for your encouragement everywhere I have played.
"Now is the time to enjoy my loved ones and have new experiences. See you off the field soon my friends."
Following Hazard's announcement, Carragher tweeted: "Interesting seeing the takes on here regarding Eden Hazard so here's mine! He was the best player in the Premier League for 4 years.
"Won PFA young player, PFA player & FWP of the year awards. He won every trophy at Chelsea except the CL [Champions League].
"He was in my eyes the best performer at the 2018 World cup when Belgium finished third. An all time Premier League great no doubt and would be in a lot of all time 11's!
"In the past that alone would be enough to be lauded unquestionably but in this day and age people are still not happy with that, as he didn't win a World Cup or do the business at Madrid," Carragher added. Injuries plagued Hazard's time at Madrid and who knows what he could have achieved if he had maintained his fitness - but there can be no questions about his talent and ability as a player during his time with the Blues.