Eden Hazard nearing Chelsea return after ankle injury as he plays for U23s against Everton
Belgian is stepping up his recovery bid after his ankle injury suffered in June
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EDEN HAZARD lined up for Chelsea's U23 side against Everton tonight as he steps up his recovery bid.
The Belgian has taken a step closer to returning to first-team action after suffering an ankle injury in June that forced him to miss the start of the season.
Hazard had not played since suffering an ankle injury that he picked up whilst training with the Belgian squad in June that resulted in surgery.
The Belgian also appeared in last week's behind-closed-doors friendly between Chelsea reserves and Queens Park Rangers.
Hazard played 74 minutes of the game on Friday night at Aldershot's Recreation Ground which Everton won 3-0.
The 26-year-old has not played a minute of first-team football for Chelsea this season, but he has been called by up for international duty for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Chelsea chief Antonio Conte admitted he was "surprised" that the forward was named in Roberto Martinez's Belgium squad.
Ahead of the Everton fixture, Conte said: "I'm a bit surprised by this decision.
"He is improving. Today in the afternoon he is playing with the U23 but he is not fully fit. The other players are available.
"I respect the decision of the coach though. If Hazard isn't ready he will not play, it's why he doesn't play with us.
"Honestly I see him every day. In this situation it's very important to give the right time to players to recover very well.
"Hazard is an important player for us and if someones thinks to accelerate the process I think it's not the right way."
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