Former Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack says Eden Hazard is thriving under the increased responsibility given to him by Maurizio Sarri.
Hazard is enjoying the most productive season of his career so far, racking up eight goals and four assists in 11 appearances, since Sarri's appointment.
The Belgian was similarly effective at the World Cup, for which his performances saw him awarded the Silver Ball for the second-best player at the tournament.
"It is a good example when you see the best players and superstars in the team are happy," Ballack told Goal. "How they perform is a good sign that something is right in the team.
"That the relationship is good, that the atmosphere is good. I always said he is an incredible player."
Ballack feels Hazard, who has made no secret of his desire to join Real Madrid, would benefit from even more responsibility at Chelsea and the team would benefit as a result.
He added: "From my perspective, he should have even more responsibility and even more impact on the team. Not just to enjoy the individual freedom which he likes.
"Players sometimes don’t want to have this heavy weight on their shoulders to carry the team or to get asked in certain situations to have that responsibility.
"I think he is the player who should do that in that team. If you understand how important it is for yourself and for your game and you can handle it, then it will transfer to the team and you will take the next step."
