Forget Hazard: Chelsea fans delight after hat-trick hero Pulisic masterclass
Christian Pulisic's hat-trick performance against Burnley prompted many Chelsea fans on Twitter to declare that the U.S. international has replaced Eden Hazard.
Chelsea fans have taken to Twitter with delight following Christian Pulisic's hat-trick against Burnley, a performance which many believe has finally shown his capability of replacing Eden Hazard.
The U.S. international netted his first goals for his new club at Turf Moor on Saturday, repaying Frank Lampard’s confidence with a 'perfect' hat-trick (left-right-header) after the Blues boss handed him his first start since August.
Following his 64-million-euro move from Borrussia Dortmund in the summer, the talented 21-year-old was hailed as the man to replace Real Madrid-bound Hazard. But he was quickly resigned to a bench-player role after failing to convince Lampard, leaving many Chelsea fans wondering if the American winger really was the man to fill the Belgian star's boots.
But those doubts were quickly swept away for many Blues supporters as Pulisic netted three goals in 55 minutes and was named man of the match in the 4-2 win over The Clarets.
Pulisic has truly replaced Hazard, say Chelsea fans
"Pulisic almost gets another one. He’s the only one who has decided it would be a good idea to show-up and play. Truly has replaced Hazard,” said one Twitter User.
Another wrote: “The way this Chelsea team plays shows the level of confidence they have right from the back to the front. Abraham was unlucky not to have scored today but Pulisic really showed that he can replace Hazard in the team.”
“Replacing 28 year old Hazard with 21 year old Pulisic and making a £40m profit in the process? She’s done it again,” tweeted another, in reference to Chelsea sporting director, Marina Granovskaia.
Supporters of other clubs also had their say, with Manchester United fan and presenter at The United Stand YouTube channel, Mark Goldbridge, stating: “Chelsea fans have a new player to idolise. Hat trick Pulisic. RIP Hazard”
The Pennsylvania-born player has struggled for his place in Frank Lampard’s side since late August, but his hat-trick performance means he will likely be one of the first names on the coach’s team sheet for the League Cup clash with Manchester United mid-week.