Eden Hazard has won the Chelsea Player of the Year award for 2014. The Belgian international has been a shining star in an otherwise disappointing trophyless season for the club. He has scored 17 goals in all competitions this campaign.
Hazard has beaten Cesar Azpilicueta, John Terry, and Gary Cahill for this award. The award was presented to Hazard by Jose Mourinho and this dispelled any rumours about a fallout between the two. He said:
“I just want to say thank you. The three nominees all deserved it but it’s me! We know it’s a collective sport but individually trophies are sometimes good, so I’ll take this one home and enjoy it with my family.”
Cesar Azpilicueta was named as the Player’s Player of the Year. His future at Chelsea under Mourinho seemed in doubt at the start of the season, but he has managed to become a regular in an unlikely position – left back.
Player of the Year 2014: Eden Hazard
Player’s Player of the Year 2014: Cesar Azpilicueta
Goal of the Season: Lewis Baker against Arsenal U21
Young Player of the Year: Lewis Baker
Lewis Baker outstanding goal against Arsenal U21s was named as the goal of the season. The Zola-esque deserves an outstanding ovation.
Former defender Paulo Ferreira was given a Special Recognition award. The Portuguese right back represented the club from 2004 to 2013. His outstanding professionalism is still the benchmark for any player that comes to Chelsea.
“I feel so humbled. I can’t believe I have won this award. I spent nine great years at this club and I feel really happy. For me it was like a second home here, it was a big family. That’s why I am still living in London and I hope to be here for a long time,” said Ferreira.