Belgium boss Martinez: Hazard sidelined 'for at least 3 months'

Belgium manager Roberto Martinez believes Eden Hazard will be sidelined for “at least three months” after injuring his right ankle in Real Madrid’s defeat to Levante on Saturday, according to Sport quotes that ESPN’s Adriana Garcia translated.

Initial reports forecasted a two-month absence for the attacker, which would’ve ruled him out of around six matches, including both legs of the Champions League round-of-16 tie with Manchester City and Sunday’s visit from Clasico rivals Barcelona.

But Martinez understands Hazard’s setback is worse than first feared, and he’ll sit out for the remainder of the league season.

“A footballer like Eden should always be on the pitch,” Martinez said. “We have an excellent communication with Real Madrid’s medical staff and we are anxious about Eden. It’s a shame, because it has also happened before an important game as that of Manchester City.

La Liga concludes on May 23, when Real Madrid travel to Leganes. Los Blancos could take the pitch for one more competitive fixture after that, with a potential Champions League final appearance set for May 30 in Istanbul.

Hazard will be expected to feature for Belgium when it kicks off its Euro 2020 campaign against Russia on June 13.