Chelsea winger Eden Hazard has insisted that Kevin de Bruyne should look to leave Stamford Bridge in January for the sake of his chances of impressing for Belgium at the World Cup.
De Bruyne has found first-team opportunities difficult to come by at Stamford Bridge this season, restricted to six appearances for the Blues in all competitions.
Hazard believes that Belgium would be best served by De Bruyne making a short-term switch when the transfer window reopens, urging his club colleague to make next summer's South American showpiece a priority when considering his future.
He told Het Nieuwsblad: "If he does not play, it is better for him to leave. Playing a World Cup after having not played for a year, is very difficult.
"If we want to get the best from Kevin in the future it is better that he leaves. But he's a big boy. He must make his own choices."
Both players are currently on international duty, preparing for a friendly against Japan tomorrow night.
Liam Power
