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Football London
Football London
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Luke Thrower

Eden Hazard downplays Romelu Lukaku's Belgium World Cup influence amid Chelsea 'rip-off' claim

Former Chelsea forward Eden Hazard has downplayed Romelu Lukaku's influence on the Belgium squad at the World Cup but declared himself the possible hero for their campaign. It comes as the Red Devils prepare for their second game of the group stages against Morocco.

Belgium struggled in their first clash against Canada, but a Michy Batshuayi strike was enough for them to earn a win without Lukaku up front amid injury concerns. The Chelsea club-record signing has been a huge part of the national squad over the past few years, elevating fears of their chances with his absence.

However, Hazard has stepped up to take the claim as a potential World Cup hero, telling reporters ahead of their next group stage game: "If I'm well, Belgium can win the World Cup. I feel good. I want to play. The mental difficulties were especially when I was injured, and I didn't understand why."

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