Belgium take on Wales in the Euro 2016 quarter-final tomorrow.
Jordan Lukaku made the strange statement that he rates Gareth Bale higher than teammate Eden Hazard
Belgium and Oostende defender Jordan Lukaku has made a strange statement regarding Eden Hazard, claiming that he rates Wales and Real Madrid star Gareth Bale higher than his international teammate, as reported by ESPN.
The younger brother of Everton star Romelu Lukaku made the comments, which are sure to have an adverse effect on the unity of the team, ahead of his nation's clash with Wales on Friday.
Wales' Gareth Bale in action
"Bale is for me perhaps slightly higher than Hazard," he said. "He's been playing longer at that level."
Hazard, 25, had an extremely poor season with Chelsea last term, and managed only four goals and three assists in 31 Premier League outings. Bale on the other hand excelled for Madrid, scoring 19 goals along with 10 assists in 23 La Liga appearances.
Based on the pair's performances last season, it would seem that Lukaku has a point, but to make these comments before such a huge game just comes across as utterly bizarre.
The Belgium left-back went on to explain further why he feels Bale is the better player, as reported by ESPN.
"At key moments at club level Bale is the man and he stands there, while Hazard is still not consistent," he added.
The outcome of Friday's quarter-final will depend heavily on which superstar is more influential, and Belgium will be hoping that Lukaku's comments inspire Hazard rather than affect his confidence.
Belgium will need Eden Hazard to be at his best against Wales tomorrow
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