Eden Hazard: Ending Tottenham's title hopes 'feels like a victory'

Chelsea star Eden Hazard spent most of the season struggling to find the world-class form that turned him into the PFA's Player of the Year last season.  But on a night when all eyes were focused on Stamford Bridge, Hazard reveled in the occasion and ended Spurs' title dreams for good with a scintillating performance capped by one of the most beautiful goals of his career -- his 40th overall in the Premier League.

Although the match technically ended in a 2-2 draw, it certainly felt more like a victory.

"It feels like a victory. There was a great atmosphere. We know Tottenham haven't won at Stamford Bridge for many years so it's good for us the players, and for the fans too."

"We know how important it is for them that we win derby games, or at least don't lose them. I like matches like that when they're very hard and there is so much rivalry between the two teams. It allows me to find my best form. It's football at its best."

After struggling to make his mark on the first half of the season, Hazard's issues only worsened once he picked up a hip injury against Leicester City. Shortly after that, Hazard had problems with his groin and his thigh, which altogether ruled him out for nearly 2 months.

Now free of injuries, Hazard said that he's found pleasure in playing football once again and expects that he and the team can finish the season in strong fashion.

"Recently I have rediscovered the pleasure to play. When you're injured it's hard to get that pleasure back. I played 45 minutes and I gave my maximum. It's been a complicated season for Chelsea and for me. It hasn't been like last season but we have three matches left and we want to finish well by winning all three."

-Eden Hazard; Source: Chelsea FC

With the Euros in sight as well, Hazard expects fans to forget (and forgive) his bad season if he has a good showing in France this summer.  But after last night's performance, he might not need to wait that long!