Chelsea star Eden Hazard has revealed Joe Cole convinced him to sign for the London club.
Hazard, who thanked the retired England international for his advice says Cole is the reason he joined the Blues. After spending five seasons in Ligue 1 side Lille, Hazard joined Chelsea in 2012. Cole was loaned out by Liverpool to the Ligue 1 side for the 2011/12 season, Hazard's last campaign at the club.
Together the pair helped Lille achieve a third-place finish and a spot in the following season's Champions League. Hazard found the back of the net 22 times in 49 appearances while Cole registered an impressive 43 appearances.
Hazard was continuously linked with moves to Chelsea, Manchester United and Spurs throughout his last season at Lille, but Cole was adamant there was only one club he should go to - and he told him every day.
"I spoke to him before I signed for Chelsea. Every day, seriously, he was telling me that Chelsea was the best club for me. He said Chelsea was a big club where you can win trophies every season. For that reason I signed, so thank you, Joe Cole!" said Hazard.Â
Read also:Â Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole announces retirement
Hazard's appreciation comes as the 37-year-old has decided to hang up his boots after a glittering 20-year career in football.
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