Tony Cascarino has claimed that the decision of Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho to drop Eden Hazard from his starting lineup was "harsh".
Hazard was named on the bench for the Blues' 2-0 win over Aston Villa on Saturday, with the Portuguese suggesting that he picked Willian and Pedro ahead of the 24-year-old because they provide better defensive cover for his side.
However, Cascarino believes that the Belgian has been treated unfairly considering his achievements last season.
"Hazard is not performing like he did last year when he was voted PFA Player of the Year," Cascarino told Sky Sports News.
"He was sensational. I think he's found it hard this year because the team are not playing as well. I look at him and think 'really? substitute?'
"I think it's harsh. He's such a big influence at Chelsea. If you want to play a style and you need someone to make a difference, he's your guy. Hazard can make things happen."
Chelsea rose to 11th in the Premier League following their win over Villa.
Simon Sinclair
