Eden Hazard has said being shortlisted for the prestigious Ballon d’Or wasn’t a career goal.
The Chelsea superstar was named on a 30-man shortlist alongside favourites for the award Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Neymar.
Hazard was stunned by the nomination but added his main aim was to ensure he gave the best performance last season.
He said: “It is not a goal at all. Last year I tried to make the best season possible.
“It was an excellent year.”
The Belgium international scored 17 goals in all competitions last term and is one of a number of Premier League stars to be shortlisted for the award.
It is the fourth time the midfielder has been shortlisted, having received nominations in 2013, 2014 and 2015.
In Pictures | Ballon d'Or 2017 nominees
When asked about the recognition, Chelsea boss Antonio Conte sung the 26-year-old’s praises.
He added: “We all know he is talented, we know his strength and he is a really, really good talented player.
“He is a good man, a good boy.”
