Eden Hazard Given 'Special Dossier' from Jose Mourinho After Chelsea vs. Spurs

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is clearly taking an especially keen interest in the form of Eden Hazard after revealing the forward was recently given a “special dossier” analysing his performance after the Blues’ clash with Tottenham Hotspur last weekend.

During that encounter at White Hart Lane, Hazard was used in a central role at the point of the attack, given freedom to affect the game in dangerous areas. Mourinho revealed he was impressed, and the 2014-15 PFA Player of the Year was given some feedback as a result, per Neil Ashton of the Daily Mail:

"

It was unusual, yes—it had everything. Lots of everything: my feedback, my vision, numbers, figures, stats. Stats for me mean very little. It was so impressive he needs that feedback, and to know his efforts were recognised for myself.

His performance was good in every aspect. He got written feedback because we analysed his performance in great detail and I thought it was good for him to get it in a written document with graphics on every aspect. …

He knows how much we need him. With that attitude and dynamic, playing with the ball and attacking them, he can play in every position. He can be 9, 10, 7 or 11.

"

Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images

It’s been a testing season for Hazard to this point, with Chelsea really struggling for form. As such, the Belgian has not been afforded the same luxuries in possession as he had in 2014-15.

As Squawka Football noted here, it’s been a long time since the former Lille man got himself on the scoresheet in the top flight:

While Chelsea have toiled for the most part, there is an onus on a player of Hazard’s calibre to perform regardless. Often, one moment of inspiration can alter the course of a match and get a team building momentum once again; those instances of genius, which were rife last term, have been scarce in the Belgian’s game this season.

Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images

The hope is Hazard will emerge from this tough patch as a much stronger player. There were definite signs he is approaching his best once again at Spurs, with his movement, dribbling and passing all looking a lot sharper. As such, it’ll be intriguing to see whether or not Mourinho does decide to keep his No. 10 in a similar position in the weeks to come.

As the Times’ Henry Winter reported, the Blues boss was effusive in his praise of Hazard after the Spurs match:

While Mourinho may be looking to build up some confidence in his star man, there is still work for Hazard to do. The Portuguese has shifted him around the side throughout the campaign seeking to get a reaction.

Many have been quick to downplay Hazard’s ability this season, but there’s little denying his natural talent. The Belgian was one of the finest young players in European football last season and possesses the kind of attributes which don’t disappear overnight. So expect him to help propel Chelsea back up the Premier League table in 2016.