Eden Hazard Says He's Not on Lionel Messi's Level

Chelsea star Eden Hazard has admitted he does not think he is as good as five-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi.

The Belgian winger, who has been vital to Chelsea's title challenge this season, cited Barcelona's Messi as one of his idols and said he has yet to reach the Argentinian's level, per France Football (via Joe Short in the Express):

"

For me, the artists are [Zinedine] Zidane and Ronaldinho. [Juan Roman] Riquelme as well in his way of moving, with his passes. And then Messi. What he does with a ball is strong, right. 

I don't think I have that level. Again, it's up to people to say it (about being as good as Messi). I do not self-proclaim to be that good.

"

Hazard, 26, has returned to his best again in 2016-17 under manager Antonio Conte, netting 11 goals and providing five assists in 27 league appearances as Chelsea have led the Premier League title race, per WhoScored.com.

He is in contention to win a second PFA Player of the Year award in three seasons, a remarkable turnaround given how poor Hazard was last term as Chelsea finished 10th.

While the Belgium international's return has been excellent this term, it still pales in comparison to Messi, who has scored 25 La Liga goals and provided seven assists playing predominantly from the right flank.

He has also been prolific in the UEFA Champions League (11 goals in seven games) and the Copa del Rey (four in six), per WhoScored.

Messi's staggering consistency is what marks him out as truly special, per La Liga:

And until Hazard can show his best form season after season, it is unlikely he will be widely regarded in the same bracket as Messi.