Chelsea fullback Marcos Alonso believes Eden Hazard's early season injuries could work in his favour.

Hazard has started just 10 games for Chelsea and Belgium this campaign, completing 90 minutes on only four occasions.

The Belgian, however, now feels at optimum level and Alonso says the enforced lay off will keep him fresh for longer.

Alonso told the London Evening Standard: “When you come back from a long‑term injury, it is never easy to get back to 100 per cent.

“I think he is playing at a very good level now but I know he will get better and better.

“He will build up from the start of the season, he will get confident with his ankle and improve every game.

“Even though he was injured in the summer, he was able to train very well without playing any matches. Now with the way we train, it is easy for him to get back to full fitness.

“He is very important for Chelsea and has to make the difference for us. He's a crucial player for us. Obviously, we have other players and they did very well when he was not available. But if Eden is 100 per cent fit, he is one of the best players in the world."

Alonso and Hazard are expected to start tonight at Champions League opponents Roma.