One way to motivate a player out of sloppy form – no El Clasico minutes for Hazard in order to wake him up

Despite returning from a muscle injury, Eden Hazard was only an unused substitute for Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti’s side in the 2-1 victory over rivals Barcelona on Sunday.After he was ‘poked’ by Ancelotti, the Belgian could be set to return to the squad on Wednesday evening when Los Blancos take on Osasuna in La Liga.The 30-year-old has struggled badly with injuries since joining from Chelsea two years ago in a 120 million USD deal. Worryingly, there are still concerns that he is still not fully fit and fears are rising he will never get back to his best.El Classico: Debutants on the mark as Real Madrid narrowly edge BarcaHazard has fallen down the pecking order behind the likes of Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo, Ancelotti has since revealed. ‘Hazard is ready, but his problem right now is that he has a coach who prefers other players, which can happen in a squad like this one.’ Ancelotti said.’The important thing is that he stays motivated and works hard so that he can play again, and he is doing that.’He just needs to put up with this situation for now, as sometimes the coach can prefer other players.’Italian’s words should act as motivation darts for Hazard, claims Spanish daily Marca. Also, respectable AS wrote that the ex-Chelsea star should play against Osasuna, although the Belgian is not expected to start.Wed, 27/10, 22.30: (1.33) REAL MADRID (5.90) OSASUNA (9.50)This season, Hazard has started just five games. Club legend Fernando Morientes believes that the patience for the Belgian to rediscover his best form in Spain is running thick.’Madrid tends to be very patient with these types of players. We know Hazard is very good, but there will probably be a time when Real Madrid will have to make a decision.’This year is a decisive year, it’s crucial for him and he will have to demonstrate what he’s got’, Morientes said.

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