Eden Hazard, Lille

Eden Hazard is confident of succeeding in the Premier League

Chelsea new boy Eden Hazard believes he can cope with the pressure of playing for the European Champions despite his young age.

The Blues playmaker completed a move from Lille last month and had been linked with Arsenal, Tottenham, Manchester United and Manchester City.

“I’m used to pressure from my time at Lille when we were competing for major trophies,” he said.

“I know it will be difficult here in the sense that Chelsea are a big club used to winning things, so there is a lot more pressure to win more and more trophies.

“But although I am only 21, I am quite experienced and I’m sure I will be able to cope with it.

“There is no doubt that this is a step up for me — the Premier League is the best League in Europe.

“But France’s Ligue 1 is one of the best leagues in Europe, there are some very strong teams — particularly in defence — and it’s always difficult to score goals.

“I’m aware of how different it will be but I will be doing my utmost week in, week out to try to be at that level.

“I am completely aware that I am going to have to fight for my place, I can’t take anything for granted. However, ultimately, I think this is a club where I can have a lot of success and win trophies.

“I hope to play as many matches as possible and to be able to gain the respect of the supporters and everybody associated with the club.

“It’s quite clear this is a very tough League to play in but it is throughout the world and that’s why I’m here.”