Greatest ever player - John Terry and Mourinho name Chelsea's GOAT

Former Chelsea captain John Terry has lauded Eden Hazard as the club's "greatest ever player" following the Belgian's induction into the Premier League Hall of Fame.

Legendary manager Jose Mourinho also joined in the praise for the iconic winger.

Hazard, alongside former Manchester United defender Gary Neville, is the latest addition to the prestigious Hall of Fame, which was established in 2020. The selection was made by the 24 existing members from a 15-player shortlist determined by a public vote.

During his celebrated seven-year tenure at Stamford Bridge, Hazard secured two Premier League titles, two Europa League trophies, an FA Cup, and a League Cup. He was also named Chelsea's Player of the Season a remarkable four times.

The Belgian winger is now the sixth Chelsea icon to receive this honour, joining a distinguished list that includes Petr Cech, John Terry, Ashley Cole, Frank Lampard, and Didier Drogba.

In a video tribute to mark the occasion, Terry expressed his admiration for his former teammate.

"Eden, it’s JT here. A huge congratulations on being inducted into the Premier League Hall of Fame, which is a fantastic achievement. It was a joy to play with you and in my personal opinion, you are Chelsea’s greatest ever player. In terms of pure ability and having someone like you in our team, it was a dream come true," Terry said.

He added, "It’s players like you that excite supporters, excite the players on your team, and petrify the opposition as well. I love you to bits and I know all the Chelsea fans do. It was a joy to play with you and share many of these trophies and I’ve got a few of these trophies because of players like you."

Hazard arrived at Chelsea from Lille in the summer of 2012 and quickly became a fan favourite. Over 352 appearances, he scored 110 goals and provided 88 assists, but it was his electrifying style of play that truly captivated the Stamford Bridge faithful.

Mourinho, who managed Hazard during his first Premier League title-winning season, also shared a message for the newly inducted star.

"Eden, many congratulations on becoming the latest player into the Premier League Hall of Fame. I know, you know and everybody knows that you belong in this.

"You are one of the most amazing players that I have ever worked with. I'm sorry about being a pain in your arse a few times! I just wanted you to be better and better and better. Even so, you are in the Hall of Fame and you stay in our memories. I enjoyed so much [coaching you] and by the way, thank you so much for my last Premier League title," Mourinho said.

After leaving Chelsea in 2019 for Real Madrid, Hazard went on to win the Champions League and La Liga before announcing his retirement from professional football in 2023 at the age of 32.