Vermaelen expects Hazard to shine

02 June 2012 08:17

Arsenal's Thomas Vermaelen is looking forward to seeing Belgium compatriot Eden Hazard strut his stuff in the Barclays Premier League next season.

The 21-year-old all but ended speculation over his future earlier this week by revealing he would leave French club Lille for Chelsea. While a deal is yet to be confirmed, Hazard, considered one of the best young talents in Europe, is almost certain to join the Champions League winners ahead of reported interest from both Manchester City and United.

The public will get a chance to see him up close when England take on Belgium in a friendly in which team-mate Vermaelen has backed him to shine. "I think he is a great player," the Arsenal centre-back said. "Technically he is one of the best in our team. He will do well for Chelsea and I think he will be nice to watch for the spectators."

He continued: "I don't know [if I am surprised he chose Chelsea ahead of City] because I was not there behind the scenes.

"He made his mind up and I think he will do well, I am convinced he will. I am happy he came to England, I think it is good for the national team as well."

Source: PA