Eden Hazard could not have asked for a better debut for Chelsea. A hand in both goals, and a constant thorn in Wigan's side, Hazard showed just why he is considered one of the brightest young talents in Europe.
English Premier League can be a tough world for imports, especially youngsters, but the 21-year-old Belgian international showed the fight, that English fans love so much, and technical and dribbling ability, which is sure to excite the Chelsea faithful.
Roberto Di Matteo believes Hazard has the talent to emulate a Blues legend - Gianfranco Zola. "It's difficult to compare players," the Italian manager said. "Gianfranco was a wonderful talent, an artist I would say. Eden might become an artist as well. After one game, it's probably a bit too early. He had a good start, but it's one game out of 38 in the league.
"It certainly gives him and the others confidence, starting with a new club like that. It was a pleasant day for him.
"He's a talented man, a talented young boy. We'll have to see how he grows into a man, and how quickly he will be an important player for Chelsea."
Di Matteo admitted he was surprised with how quickly and easily Hazard adapted to the rigors of the Premier League. "It was great to see him enjoying himself as well, and getting his teeth into the Premier League," he said.
"You're never quite sure how the new players will adapt, and I'm sure it will take him a bit of time to get used to the physicality and tempo of the Premier League, and the same for Oscar as well.
"It's good he got used to it quickly because that's how it's going to be. He's a strong man, a strong boy. Strongly built as well. It will certainly help him."
"We spoke during pre-season about the Premier League. He's a young man but he already has a lot of experience in terms of playing games. He knows how to handle himself."
The manager is spoilt for choice with last season's club player of the year Juan Mata, Oscar and Hazard, along with Marko Marin, all capable of playing the playmaking role as well as out wide in a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation, behind the lone striker Fernando Torres. Di Matteo believes, that flexibility will only help Chelsea create more chances.
"He (Hazard) can play in various positions," the former Chelsea player said. "He has played a lot on the wing, he plays behind the striker, that's where we started him on Sunday, but also with the fact we have other players in the team there is good rotation between them and it makes it more difficult to be marked."
